Lucky Holiday

Merry Christmas, dear bumblebees! Perhaps if you haven't heard, I'm currently holding a mini giveaway. Go click the link because the deadline is only a couple of days away :P So now the festive season is here, you know I can't help but getting myself a treat of limited edition thingy such as this BB cushion from Laneige. It's my second BB cushion after purchasing Too Cool For School Dinoplatz U.F.O Multibox that was actually a spontaneous buying because back than I should've bought their Sparkling Party edition. Anyway, I'm finally trying this out!

Laneige BB Cushion Lucky Holiday Edition.

Description: A new concept cushion-type BB with five active ingredients for whitening + sunscreen + sweat-proof + soothing + makeup contained in the cushion to maximize the refreshing and soothing sensation.

As expected from Laneige, sleek design on the outside yet informative in the inside.

I bought the #21 in natural beige, I noticed there is another #21 shade called pink beige and though I have neutral undertone, I just don't want to risk it. Yup.. Talking about playing on the safe side. Then, moving on to the packaging, I like this year's holiday collection compared to their PLAYNOMORE or pushBUTTON collaboration. The design is not as simple as Sparkling Party nor the original. It has clubs pattern in red and transparent with accent of gold that adds classy impression I suppose. The mirror inside is very useful too, especially when my touchup time reaching.

Excellent theme for year-end holiday.

Based on the leaflet, the puff that comes altogether with the BB cushion is designed to deliver refreshing cooling sensation as it absorbs moisture less than ordinary puff. Usually I press down the cushion two times to get the desirable amount, application is quick because it blends right away as I repeatedly pat the puff on my face. Although I might have to disagree with the statement it has cooling sensation.

The swatch on my skin.

This BB cushion somehow has similar scent to Tony Moly BCDation that makes me wonder, do they belong in the same parent company? Apparently Tony Moly isn't under AmorePacific corporation. The scent has a hint of floral and powder, but nothing too exaggerated.

I'm glad I picked this shade as it compliments my skin tone once it oxidizes. True that it leaves white cast because of its SPF 50 PA+++, but I'll be neutral here because on the other hand, I need high SPF in my life. If it's going to be a picture day, I'd rather grab my Bourjois foundation. It has dewy finish and one notable thing is it might be leaving sticky feeling, but putting on translucent powder will do the trick. Coverage wise, it can cover some spots, therefore evens out my skin tone. I like how it brighten my complexion, plus it's also sweat-proof! I once tested it during my gym session which included 30 minutes treadmill and cycling, and all I could see my complexion was still fab. LOL.

Frankly speaking, the only downside of having a cushion is that I need to invest either time or money on the puff. If you think washing a beauty blender is a pain in the neck, wait until you meet a cushion puff like this ;)

Price: KRW 37,000

My Kind of Beauty Mask + Mini Giveaway

Though a sheet mask a day challenge may come overwhelming, I believe there are many benefits a sheet mask may offer. In order to achieve a healthy glowing skin, there must be a lot of efforts in it, one of them is using a face mask routinely. My regime isn't that complicated, I wear these masks right after I cleanse my face and dab my toner (with a cotton pad) before putting it. Just never use any kind of face mask on a dirty skin! That's something that always irks me whenever I see beauty vloggers demonstrate face mask on their full of makeup skin. What's the point?

Primera Clear-Up Seed and Sprout Energy Mask

I honestly never tried any other Primera products besides its sheet mask. There was this 10+10 promo when I visited the store in Myeongdong, so I bought it. Turns out it's so good and I regret not buying more. They use an unbleached organic cotton sheet. Performance wise, after leaving it for 15-20 minutes, it left my face smooth and hydrated, even for the following day.

Innisfree Trouble Care Skin Solution Mask

The trouble care uses propolis as its main ingredients, and I thought it would leave a sticky feeling afterwards. However, thankfully it's not despite the honey properties. What I like about Innisfree mask is that they use unbleached pure cotton just like Primera since it's an eco-friendly product.

Too Cool For School Pumpkin Sleeping Pack

I am not a big fan of sleeping mask because they tend to excessively moisten my oily-combination skin, but this one is an exception! Not only it has a powdery scent, it makes my face smooth, and feels light on my skin overnight, really. I don't wake up with so much glow either.

The Face Shop Red Ginseng Real Nature Mask 

Korea is well-known for its own red ginseng which is very healthy for the body. Apparently, this mask sheet contains extract of six year-old Korean red ginseng rich in saponin, a supplement to care for tired and languid skin. How great is that? It's just I have to warn you that the mask has a strong woody scent and the essence isn't transparent or white like in the usual face masks you may find. It has brownish tinge, so I suggest you to wash your face after you're done with it.

Beyond Beyond The Real Tea Tree Mask

And the most favorite tea tree mask sheet award goes to Beyond! It smells refreshing, fits my face perfectly and thankfully we have the physical store here in Indonesia though I am not sure right now if I'm going to stock them since the price would be quite high. Sigh...  

Nature Republic Snail Hydrogel Mask Sheet

It's true that Korean has such an impressive beauty rage, snail slime is only one of them. I think it's early this year that snail slime has become the hottest ingredients in skin care. Yes, apparently snail has healing properties and anti-bacterial benefits for the skin. The essence from this mask was abundant, there was some leftover so apply it on my neck and hands, plus the mask didn't even dry out after 20 minutes.

Innisfree Intensive Ampoule Mask [BHA]

I think I'm a bit attached with Innisfree when it comes to skincare. Well, BHA is a great companion if you have particularly oily, acne prone skin. It is well known that BHA has anti-inflammatory action. So that's why I befriend with it.  This mask is pretty unique as there are 2 part of it, one is the ampoule and the other one is the mask sheet itself. I noticed my irritated skin was looking better after application. Such a great thing to stock on. Too bad I didn't buy much back then in Korea.

Holika Holika After Sauna Mask Sheet

Actually, the shape of this face mask a wee too big for me, and I wish the nose part could be made longer to fit me well. However, I really love the packaging, especially the back side where I can put notes, and it will be a cute gift for anyone. Because they have so many themes for this mask, such as before an interview, before a date (LOL), after drinking, after taking a trip, after hard study, and whatnot. This after sauna mask is supposed to be a pore care, I spot cucumber extract as one of the ingredients.

The Face Shop BeBe Lip Mask

Having chapped lips won't flatter any lipstick I wear, so once I'm done scrubbing my lip (I use e.l.f Lip Exfoliator), I'll just apply this on my lips. It'll make my lips more moisturized than wearing just normal lipbalm.

Annie's Way Lavender Relaxing Jelly Mask

Uh, I really want to know where you guys can get this mask in Jakarta! Its jelly texture makes me don't want to take off the mask. The cooling effect is just what I really need for a morning mask. Maybe anyone of you bumblebees know where I can get this?

*coughs* 'Cause you know, sharing is caring and Christmas is also around the corner, feels like a perfect time for a giveaway, right? I want to share some of my favorite mask with you, I hope the prize would be interesting enough for you to join :D

My mini giveaway banner. Do save and share ^^

What's in it?

• Primera Clear-Up Seed and Sprout Energy Mask
• The Face Shop Red Ginseng Real Nature Mask
• The Face Shop BeBe Lip Mask
• Etude House Pearl Aura Brightening Essence Lotion (sample)
• TonyMoly Panda's Dream White Magic Cream (sample)
• Too Cool For School Pumpkin Sleeping Pack (sample)
• Too Cool For School McGirly Come Clean Facial Wash (sample)

You've only got to follow these simple steps:

1. The giveaway will only be sent to Indonesian address only.
2. Fill in the Rafflecopter to entry.
3. Follow me via Google Friend Connect. Kindly find the widget on my left sidebar.
4. Or follow me via Bloglovin' for another point.
5. Let your friends know. Put the giveaway banner + link to this post on your blog. It's also an optional rule for a plus point that you can submit everyday.
6. I do want to know what kind of face mask do you regularly use or find it interesting. Tell me on the comment below as I want to explore new stuffs :D
7. The giveaway will end on Thursday, 31 December (GMT +7).
8. I will personally e-mail to notify you and update this post with the winner name on the first day of 2016. If you don't e-mail me back in 2x24 hours, then I will pick another winner.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

♡ ♡ ♡ GOOD LUCK! ♡ ♡ ♡

Not Another Beauty Tool

On some lazy days when I don't feel like using brushes, I'd always opt for either cushion or sponge. Not only it makes your foundation look completely flawless, it also saves time. However, there are two downsides I've encountered so far, one: probably because it's not as durable as brushes, therefore you spend more money on it, and two: cleaning brushes is a way easier task than cushion or sponge.

Masami Shouko Beauty Blender.

Well well, as a Beauty Blender dupe, I can say they're proud to name the product exactly just like its original. I don't hesitate to buy Masami Shouko product because it's been very familiar to me and their brush quality is amazing in such affordable price. This isn't my first Beauty Blender dupes I've ever tried, my first dupe was also from Masami Shouko, back then they didn't have it in this shape. Now it looks like they offer in 2 different shape, and it's kind of questionable whether they're the same because this one definitely has a different feel or probably they make an improvement. The second one was from Too Cool For School, I wasn't happy about it, the quality was bad, it smelled weird and didn't perform well. What a waste of money!

Product description and how-to.

It comes in two different color; pink like mine and black, plus two different shape (like I said earlier); teardrop and hourglass. I picked the teardrop one in pink just because my previous ones are hourglass model in black and white.

Size differences: dry VS damp.

Performance wise, this sponge is so much better than the older hourglass version, I like how it bounces so easily and feels soft when I dab it on my skin. It doesn't absorb much foundation making my face looks flawless just like an airbrush finish. Moreover, washing beauty blender is no longer a pain in the ass anymore. I'm using my Etude House Puff & Brush Cleaning Mist, soak it into a pool of water, and squeeze it gently to get the foundation out of the sponge. Yes, basically you've got to squeeze and rinse until there's no makeup residue on the surface. I've heard some people soak their sponges with alcohol, but is it recommended? Do you have any other way to sanitize it? Lemme know the trick!

Price: IDR 88,900

No More Wondering

[Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received the product for a review purpose, but the opinions are my own based on my experience.]

Happy Halloween, bumblebees! What are you guys planning to do this weekend? I'll be as usual spending quality time at the salon. Two months left 'til new year, I still have no idea whether my 2015 resolutions have been all completed. But one thing for sure, I've visited the places I've always dreamed since my teenage year. Couldn't be more grateful :)

Anyway, back to skincare review. I'm now more careless about my skin, I don't really wear toner nor moisturizer in real life. Promise I will change this bad tendency before it becomes a habit. That's the reason why it took me awhile to review this product that was sent by Jolse. It's my all time favorite Korean brand and their famous skincare line, Etude House Wonder Pore. I believe this was a new release in early 2015. Well, actually, I got this awhile ago, and even brought it to LA.

Etude House Wonder Pore Tightening Essence.

Descriptions: This is a pore essence that tightens pores for smooth and firm pores. Cleans pores, tightens pores, controls moist/oil balance, weak acid pH control. Therefore, makes fine smooth pores.

Directions: After using Freshner, get appropriate amount and spread on your face.

Product's ingredients. I notice a few types of silicones.

Cute drawings as expected from Etude House.

Packaging wise, it's always adorable and the plastic bottle is sturdy and made of high quality plastic, I love the pump packaging because it works wonder to prevent leaking. There was no leakage problem while I was traveling with it. 

Onto the texture and performance, the essence is thicker than I expected it to be. Surprisingly, it absorbs super fast and leaves no greasy residue on skin. It's a gel-like cream and able to cover small pores on my cheek. Another great thing, the alcohol smell isn't as intense as their Freshner. There's no stingy sensation upon application though it has alcohol in its main ingredients.

Thick gel texture.

Blends out so easily and instantly smoothen my skin.

The essence moisturizes my skin well without making it feel sticky. It has some kind of oil control as my oily combination skin turns matte within a minute after application. I like to use it as a primer too as with it my pore looks less visible. Then again, it's only meant for skincare :P 

Price: USD 15.82

Perhaps, one of these Wonder Pore products might appeal to you:

• Whipping Foaming
• Freshner
• Brush

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Practically holding my breath when IU released this song just a day before my birthday! I was twenty three then, and lemme tell ya I can relate a lot to this song. There were many times when I didn't know what I wanted to be or do. It was difficult to envision my life in 5 years, which is confusing! Am I having an early quarter-life crisis?

IU - Twenty-three.

Keeping Up The Good Vibes

[Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received the product for a review purpose, but the opinions are my own based on my experience.]

Uh oh! What's up, bumblebees? Welcoming my first #OOTD post featuring this coolest timepiece ever. So, have you heard the trend of wooden watches? As a person who wears a watch in daily basis, I was super excited the moment I knew I'm gonna get to wear this watch. The shipping only took about 15 days from their headquarter in Missouri to Jakarta! They packaged it safely with all the bubble wrap and sealed the crystal face of the watch with transparent sticker to make sure no scratches happen during the shipping.

Jord Cora Series: Purpleheart & Mother of Pearl.

Talk about details! This timepiece surely delivers its elegance by the wooden packaging and comprehensiveness. It includes the brief manual, the warranty card, and a cleaning cloth. Not to mention the leftover wooden links because they have my watch sized before it's sent out to me. The procedure was simple. All I had to do was to print their ruler, cut it, then size it on my wrist, voilà it's done!

Designed with premium materials from the mother nature.

FEATURES

• sapphire crystal glass
• deployment buckle with push button
• Swarovski crystal markers
• screw-down crown
• case width: 37mm
• case thickness: 12mm
• lug ends: 38mm
• band thickness: 18mm - 22mm
• band length: 211mm

MOVEMENT

• Sea-Gull ST6103K
• display: hours - minutes - seconds
• jewel bearing: 21 jewels
• power reserve: 36 hours
• frequency: 21,600 BPH (beats per hour)
• accuracy: +/- 3 seconds /day
• drive system: self-winding automatic (requires no battery)

FINISH & CARE

The natural purpleheart wood is hand finished and pretreated with tung oils. The Cora is splash-proof but should not be submerged in water (3 ATM). Lemon or orange oil extract is best for cleaning the natural wood. When storing this timepiece, avoid extremely hot, cold, and excessively dry/humid environments.

COLOR & APPEARANCE

Purpleheart wood is sourced from the Solomon Islands. The wood has a naturally rich purple color. The grain pattern is generally fine and has very straight lines. Although difficult to cut at high speeds, when worked correctly, a beautiful and long lasting finish is created.

FYI, Cora is the only timepiece that uses purpleheart wood, not to mention the screw down crown are built for the automatic pieces only. You might have seen me wearing this watch on my Instagram or if you have seen me in person, maybe? :P

Loving this combination of arm candy.

Another thing that I like from this timepiece is that the deployment buckle or also known as butterfly clasp, it just completes the aesthetic aspect of this watch. The watch is lightweight with smooth finishing and comfortable to wear in Jakarta's hot weather all day long. Oh, I actually have this story, it happened on the first time I received the packaging, I was confused btw how to set the time with the screw down crown so I had to ask their representative via their chic website and by seconds, he solved my trouble, the instruction was very clear and therefore, I encourage you to ask them if you find any issue with your watch. What's even better is that Jord's extra mile service, it offers a free shipping worldwide! Mine was sent by the USPS's first class air mail (no wonder the fast delivery).

I've always worn my watch on my left hand and let my right hand free of accessories.

Top: Kamiseta / Culottes: Merona / Bracelet: Pandora / Bag: RRL by Ralph Lauren

Maybe if I have a few other things to share is about the maintenance of automatic watch, here is the video that might help you to understand better. Let me know which Jord watch do you feel to own! They definitely have plenty of collection for both men and women ;)

Wooden Watches Men

Magic in Nature

[Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received the product for a review purpose, but the opinions are my own based on my experience.]

How are you, bumblebees? I have been contemplating whether I have to just focus on my full time job or also manage my blog at the same time as I need to draft my new year's resolution in no time. Then again, I am not that busy, there are many other people out there who work crazier than me. Thus, I will update my blog no matter what. I can't promise a frequent update, but one sure thing, you'll still see the same or even better quality blogpost from me ;)

Now let me review another product that I picked from Jolse, it's Nature Republic's Magic Remover for Mascara. Btw, go check out their website because they normally have a sale, which is quite a big deal. The new arrivals look intriguing as well, hmm...

Nature Republic Magic Remover For Mascara.

Description: This mascara remover with borago officinalis extract removes powerful eye makeup.

Directions: Shake bottle to mix oil & liquid layers. Soak cotton makeup pad with remover solution. Cover eye region with soaked pad for 20 seconds then wipe makeup clean.

I wish they put the ingredients in English.

Ohh, I am so in need of great eye makeup remover that's gentle to the skin. That's why I chose Nature Republic because I believe it will use natural agent in its formula. As for this one, it uses botanical ingredient called borago officinalis a.k.a star flower (you see the plant in its packaging?) It's believed to have a cooling, diuretic, anti-inflammatory and saline effect on the skin. With such main ingredient, at least it feels safer and gentler to be applied on the skin around eyes since it's more sensitive.

Testing to remove my waterproof eyebrow liquid pen in one swipe.

Performance wise, it doesn't perfectly remove stubborn makeup in just a single swipe. I tried to remove my holy grail Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Brow Color in one swipe and the result is as in above picture. However, it will do its job just fine when I tried removing them again with a few more drops and power. There was once when I had to wear double false eyelashes (yes, I wore two layers of falsies) and the makeup artist put loads of mascara on it, I thought I'd be having troubles removing them. Apparently not! The key was to generously soak the product, don't hesitate to use new cotton pads and separate the excess glue with Q-tips too. You know, my real eyelashes are precious, so I don't want to risk losing one of them. LOL.

What I like about it is it doesn't sting at all, no matter how much of the products you're using. It's not as oily as many oil based makeup remover that I knew. The scent is not overwhelming and just smells nice, nothing is too chemical whatsoever.

Price: USD 8.98

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Girls' Generation - Lion Heart.

The girls are back, bumblebees! I like the cute classy concept in this MV, it somehow reminds me of those old days. Not to mention, the outfit when they're having live performance are never boring. No wonder they dominates the music show by winning 9 times in a row. Which one of their latest singles that you like the most?

Tint The Milky Way

[Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received the product for a review purpose, but the opinions are my own based on my experience.]

Summer is almost over! But that doesn't mean I can't put such bright colors on my lips. I've been searching for the nicest lip tint. This time I'm going to review Peripera Peri's Tint Milk from Jolse, an online shopping destination for all K-cosmetics lovers. The website is so user-friendly, one of the features that I like about it is they will save your recent viewed items. If you scroll it down, you'll find their official reviews as well as their weekly best sellers. Moreover, they gave me a bunch of samples too! Don't you love it when an online shop goes the extra mile? So without further ado, here's my own review!

Peripera Peri's Tint Milk.

Description: Like creamy milk, this tint gently blends upon lips. Non-sticky texture blends easily without any blots.

Directions: Apply with its tip from the center of lips.

Those of you might not know that Peripera is a sub-brand of Clio cosmetics, it belongs to inexpensive range as you can find it in many drugstores. The first Peripera product that I know is their widely known tint water.  But back then, I was so into my Tony Moly lip tint (though the packaging sucked), so I pulled myself away, didn't give it a shot.

The applicator.

Packaging wise, I love the red-haired girl on the lid. It's designed by Mari Kim, you know, one of her most popular artworks is on 2NE1's MV (I bet all the Blackjacks have heard about this). On top of that, it has an inner cap to prevent the leaking. The wand is very easy to use since it's a doe-foot applicator. It's all back to your own preference, however it's a tint, therefore I think this type of applicator can perform better as it's softer and fluffier :D Yes! I tend to look for doe-foot applicators over brushes when I buy lip tint or lip gloss.

Swatches.

Based on the container, you probably think both shades are very bright. However, they appear to be lighter and sink well with the natural lip color. The milky pink has a baby pink shade when it's applied, while the milky peach looks more like an orange shade than peach in my opinion.

The texture is thicker than usual liquid lip tint. One challenge that I found working with this tint is that I've got to immediately blend it because its formula stains right away. Since it stains right away, the lasting power is above average. It can stay longer than 3 hours, but reapplication is needed once you eat. I apply lip balm first prior to application, though I often forget, like at times when I'm doing touchup, these things are still quite moisturizing. I don't experience any chapped lips while using them. Lastly, this tint has sweet scent which doesn't bother me at all. So far I'm enjoying it!

Price: USD 8.08

Dewy Kisses

[Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received the product for a review purpose, but the opinions are my own based on my experience.]

Hi dearest bumblebees! Been away for too long, a month to be precise, I know. A little life update from me; I spent my summer vacay in the States, but I couldn't present such amusing stories for you. Because for comparison, west coast was fun. However, east coast, as much as I could recall, was a hell of a lot fun. So I went to the City of Angels, San Fransisco and (uhm) Las Vegas with my mom. It's weird how I still couldn't get over NYC, Boston, Atlantic City and the other cities along the east coast that I visited like 2 years ago, meanwhile I don't feel like going back to west coast at all. I didn't take plenty of pictures too. Again. Weird.

Anyway, here I'm back in town, bringing you a new product from Jolse, called Dewy Kiss Lip Balm by Missha. Chapped lips have been stories of my life, I tried a lot of lipbalms from Chapstick, Burt Bee's, Nivea, Maybelline, Palmer's and so on, they're doing pretty good job, but I wonder if this very adorable pinky packaging could do the same too. I won't go chattering those other brands, so let's just get straight to the review!

Missa Dewy Kiss Lip Balm.

Description: Scented lip balm for sweet and moist, kissable lips. Containing cupuacu butter and asimina triloba extract to care lips without stickiness.

Directions: Use finger or brush to apply over lips.

They didn't state the ingredients on the packaging so I had to copy-paste it directly from Missha's official US website:

Microcrystalline Wax, Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, Octyldodecanol, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Paraffin, Jojoba Seed Oil, Mango Seed Butter, Meadowfoam Delta-Lactone, Sunflower Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract, vena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract, Punica Granatum Extract, Mentha Rotundifolia Leaf Extract, Grapefruit Extract, Coconut Oil, Theobroma Grandiflorum Seed Butter, Nephelium Lappaceum Branch/Fruit/Leaf Extract, Litchi Chinensis Fruit Extract, Garcinia Mangostana Peel Extract, Asmino Triloba Tree Fruit Extract, Diisostearyl Malate, Polyethylene, Glyceryl Behenate, Beeswax, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Trihydroxystearin, Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate, Caprylic/Caprylic Triglyceride, Glyceryl Caprylate, Caprylyl Glycol,Silica, Aluminum Hydroxide, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Water, Butylene Glycol, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, CI 15850, CI 19140

The key ingredient is theobroma grandiflorum, aka cupuacu butter as mentioned in the description above. To be honest though, I didn't know what it was so I browsed through Google and found the detailed explanation about it from Lush. I'd just mention some of the fact to make it brief yet clear, k?

So cupuacu is a tropical tree in Amazon rain forest. Apparently the tree is still related to cacao the tree where cocoa beans are obtained. Long story short, the cupuacu butter is obtained by cold-pressing. The butter is consists of various beneficial fatty acids. Because of its rich content of; phytosterols to benefit dry, damaged skin, polyphenols to combat free radicals in the tissues, and fatty acids (including palmitic, stearic and oleic acids) to protect and moisturize, it can act as skin hydrator and plumper. Though it's not recognized as an SPF, cupuacu butter also well known for it's ability to absorb damaging UVA / UVB rays for natural sun protection.

Double-sealed for hygiene and protection.

Now let me carry on the actual review, I got myself the lipbalm in shade dewy berry not because I like berries. I was actually a bit hesitant I might be licking my lips if I picked this one. It was just the fact that pink wins most of the time. HA!

First time opening the pot, there were some 'steam' most likely due to the shipping.

The lipbalm comes in a tiny plastic pot, weighed 7g and available in three different flavors; berry, grapefruit, citron. It has jelly-like texture, it's slick but the balm doesn't rub off easily on my finger (yeah, I'm using my clean finger). The pink shade unfortunately wouldn't be seen on your lips, it will only look hydrated, moistened without awkward glossy finish or stickiness. I tried to lick my lips while having this lipbalm on and thank goodness, it doesn't have any unpleasant taste at all, just bland. Just like how it's named, the scent is sort of like berries, sweet but a bit sour in a good way for me, since it's not strong.

All in all, I think it is a must-have product for those who like a potted lippies in a cute packaging, and who search for translucent lipbalms with slightly fruit scent to keep their lips soft and hydrated.

Price: USD 6.98

Clean Makeup Brushes 101

It's a new month! Summer is coming real soon! I can't wait for the long happy holidays :P Anyway, let's get to the point, shall we? I'm going to share my own guide and also a little review of these things that have helped me cleaning my go-to makeup tool.

As I have to do makeup (almost) everyday, my go-to makeup tool for applying liquid base on my face has changed from a beauty blender to brushes and a cushion puff. Hence, they are in need of cleaning. Although brushes don't harvest bacteria as much as sponges do, I still believe it's best to clean them at least every week.

Etude House Puff & Brush Cleaning Mist and

Etude House My Beauty Tool Brush.

Description: This is a mist type puff & brush cleanser that removes dirt and gently melts away makeup residue without the use of water. Useful for maintaining a clean and hygienic puff and brush.

Directions:

1. Spray sufficient amount onto puff or brush you wish to clean and wipe off with dry or wet tissue.
2. Gently pat while wiping until no residue remains on tissue.
3. Use puff or brush after completely drying off cleansed puff and brush in cool area.

Product description and directions. Can't find the ingredients anyways, maybe it's the Hangul.

Unlike what it's named of, this mist can hardly clean my cushion puff. Oh, I'm using this technique from Laneige to clean my cushion puff, I find it more delicate to clean it that way. For that reason, even though it's said "no-wash", I don't recommend using this product without washing the brush afterwards because it can't completely clean the residual makeup that way.

So here you go, my guide to clean the brush using Etude House Puff & Brush Cleaning Mist:

Spray the mist on both sides, wipe the brushes on tissues until the makeup residue melts.
Avoid the part of the brush where the handle meets the head as it can break down the glue over time.

Fill a cup with lukewarm water and gently swirl the brush tips in the water.
Repeat this step until the water runs clear from the brush.

Voilà! Now your brushes are clean, squeeze any excess water and lay them flat to dry.

Price: KRW 4,500

By any chance, is there anyone who has tried Etude House Brush Shower Cleaner? I've been wondering if it performs well because back then it was such a hard decision whether purchasing this one over the Brush Shower Cleaner since it comes in a huge bottle (5 times the amount, to be precise) and only priced twice as much. Too bad there were no tester for both products on the store or else I might be picking the one that smells more divine. So bumblebees... Let me know please in the comment section down below ;)

Dreaming Swan

Bumblebee-ya~ Anyong haseyo! This month surely flies so fast. June is coming so soon and therefore, summer season will start. Told ya I've got so many things from Seoul, but laziness pervades me and I've used up most of the cosmetics I bought. HA! However this one that I'm going to review is one of the stuffs that I asked my friend to get me when she was visiting South Korea. She visited the country all way to the south, well I mean, Busan. I'm so jealous and happy for her I mean, because when I went to South Korea, I could only visit Seoul as I was on tour and the Busan or even Jeju package wasn't available back then. This gives me another good reason to visit South Korea, I'd love to travel on Spring or Fall mainly because of the weather, not too cold nor too hot.

So yeah, this one I'll be reviewing is one of the Etude House's latest releases. As a fan of the brand, I surely can't skip this collection called Dreaming Swan which was inspired by the ballet. It's a collaboration between Etude House and Kerrie Hess, an illustrator from Australia. Honestly though, I've never heard of her before, but apparently she has worked for Chanel, Kate Spade, Lancome, Ladurée, etc. Just wow, isn't it?!

Etude House Dreaming Swan Shine Volumer.

Description: A pearl-cream multi shadow that absorbed smoothly on every area that needs dazzling shimmer.

What it promises:

• Transparently and delicately shiny pearl that makes moisturized lovely eyes.
• Powerful instant fitting system keeps pearl not to fall out for delicate and clear pearl expression.
• Bounce-up gel type texture to express 3D-effect volume.
• Non-sticky and moisturising texture to provide shiny volume on broad area.

Product's description, directions and ingredients.

Personal thought of mine about the packaging. As any other usual Etude House's packaging, it's prettier on the box rather than the actual product. Thankfully there are prints of ballerina's shoes and bow on the lid. I got mine in shade #3 twinkling tutu.

Texture wise, it's more like creamy liquid with tons of gold glitter that glides very easily and dries instantly too, so make sure to blend it nicely before it dries. While it's said on the direction that it can be used for the bridge of the nose, I seriously don't recommend you to use it on that area. It will look too glittery and you'll end up looking unnatural.

Swatch on my hand using the wand and blended afterwards.

It's not an easy product for the eye area either, though it's meant to be a highlighter. The promotional photo makes it looks as if it's practical to work with, when in fact it takes me loads of trial and error. I think the problem is on the wand. Its diameter is too thick for an eye makeup product, since it picks so many liquid and it'll look messy if you directly apply it to your eye area.

The trick of using this product is to make sure you only pick a little, apply it first on the hand (to reassure you really pick only a little of it), and now you're safe to put it on bottom lash line area. However, that's too complicated! Nowadays I use it as a highlighter for my eyebrow bone because that way it's easier to blend.

Price: KRW 7,500

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K-drama updates anyone? I'm currently watching School 2015, Kim SooHyun is def my most favorite child actress, she stars as a lead in there. I think it's a cute mystery teen drama, dunno why the rating is low. Hopefully the rating will climb up until its finale. Who's with me here that agrees BTOB's SungJae is a noona killer? LOLOL. He's adorable on that drama, but nay in a variety show. Because I like Jackson much better in Big Byung. Anyways, this drama produces only great OST until now.

Tiger JK feat. Jinsil Of Mad Soul Child - Reset.

Baechigi feat. Punch - Fly With The Wind.

Dinoplatz U.F.O Multibox

Well hey, bumblebees... May Day! May Day! And that's a reason why I have time to post a review. Lately I've been busy but not really with my work, thus blogging seems like a difficult thing to do. However, I sneak some of my leisure time to write something because I like writing especially when it comes to beauty!

This... is a product that I've used since I came back from Seoul, bought it fresh from their road shop in Dongdaemun and I thought the name of the brand says it all; Too Cool For School. I fell in love completely with the warm reception. The sales girl couldn't talk in English yet tried her best to explain me about the special promo going on. I was so glad that she suggested it to me because it's such a great save!

I heard about this brand before because my friend told me their beauty blender is just one of the best she's ever tried, but back then Too Cool For School was closed down in Jakarta (which anyway they've recently reopen in Taman Anggrek Mall, with a different distributor though).

Too Cool For School Dinoplatz U.F.O Multibox.

Description: Dinoplatz U.F.O Multibox is a wacky square type of package, in addition to the cushion BB foundation, there is a built-in pore balm, concealer, and makeup palette of lip & cheek. When you slide from under the case, it's as if an alien is coming down (the makeup palette). The BB foundation finish is shiny and able to adjust unevenness of the skin for us to achieve a smooth pottery skin.

Dem feels of a brand new puff.

Apparently cushion puff is just unusually soft and smooth.

You can tell now, I was unfamiliar with cushion type of makeup. I thought it wasn't hygienic so I hesitated to try but I WAS WRONG! This is just the greatest beauty invention yet! Whoever came up with this idea, I thank you for now I don't have to bring a tube of my BB or CC cream in my makeup pouch as I do my makeup at my office (sleeping time is precious when you work 8 hours a day y'all know). Moreover, touch-ups could be done as easy as 1 2 3.

BB foundation cushion is on the top.

It looks nasty, but should I care?

My bad, it was perfect when I first unboxed the packaging.

I got mine shade #23 Janna, but those with fairer skin and cool tone can pick the #21 Pola because it's more pink in color. Nothing I dislike about their concept, it's so practical, compact, and everything works like a charm. They gave you mirror too inside and it's very usable. 

Swatches on my hand.

Being so rich in SPF, it kinda give me a white cast though it's not in a moderate amount which is a great thing for SPF 50. The coverage is just awesome, especially the creamy concealer. For the lip & cheek, I can say it's great for subtle blush, but it's not recommended for lip as it's drying (or maybe just my poor lips). Pore balm is barely visible on my swatch, I don't actually use it too because big pores ain't my thing xP

Last but not least, this was the special promo that I told you before. The sales girl tried to explain me what would I get inside this box. I was so stupid too for thinking I'll get two multibox, not the refill one like this. Eventually I got what she meant, but I insisted to get the cushion puff separately, so then perhaps she told me (in Korean language that I don't even understand) that I'll get the puff inside the refill. I think I finally surrendered to her as she didn't give me the cushion puff by telling me "no need". HAHA. Yes, we'll get that cushion puff inside the refill, I double checked their website.

Gotta save this for my summer trip.

Overall I'm impressed with this product, it lives up to my expectation. Not a downside, but it's a bit pricey for the size (12g for only the BB foundation). I've used it up in two months, but I'm happy that packaging idea looks so cool, the shade suits my skin tone, and more importantly the formula doesn't break me out.

Price: KRW 38,000

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Miss A - Only You.

Guilty pleasure; I've been raping the replay button for this song. I watched all their live show too. Pssh!