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Member Since: July 31, 2008Reviews
Maybelline New York Dream Liquid Mousse Foundation
I had been convinced of 2 things: 1) that powder foundation was better than liquid, and 2) that I would never buy foundation from the supermarket. Once I tried this though, I completely changed my mind! 5 things that I really like about this: 1... +
I had been convinced of 2 things: 1) that powder foundation was better than liquid, and 2) that I would never buy foundation from the supermarket. Once I tried this though, I completely changed my mind! 5 things that I really like about this:
1. Didn't feel oily or heavy at all. Wore it out for an afternoon in the sun and didn't "melt" on me. I applied the foundation with my fingertips and didn't have any powder to wear over it.
2. Colour matched perfectly (but could also be because it's very sheer). Found that it evened out my skin tone pretty well.
3. Looks very natural, not cakey at all
4. Upon close inspection, it does have the effect of "minimizing" pores. It claims to give you that "airbrushed" look and it's right!
5. Pump worked well, doesn't squirt out too much product as some pumps do sometimes
I'm just really surprised at how well this product works, given that it's more affordable than what I had been originally using! I don't know how this compares with other supermarket/drugstore brands (like CG), but I would definitely consider switching over to this foundation and save myself some cash!
Just a note about my skin type: normal, don't have sensitive skin, a bit of rosacea under the nose area, but otherwise no other skin flaws. Overall, this product worked well for my skin type!
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Softlips® PURE Natural Lip Balm - Bergamot
I was so frustrated with my Burt's Bees, went to the supermarket and picked this up as I've always loved Softlips. I bought the bergamot one. First thing I noticed was the smell - quite overpowering and smelled like citronella. That's... +
I was so frustrated with my Burt's Bees, went to the supermarket and picked this up as I've always loved Softlips. I bought the bergamot one. First thing I noticed was the smell - quite overpowering and smelled like citronella. That's probably the biggest down-side. Everything else is excellent! Applies so smoothly, it slipped off my lips! Lasts much longer than Burt's Bees. Gives my lips a nice little sheen (and even a weeee bit of colour). Would definitely recommend this (but maybe in a different flavour!). -
Clorox Disinfecting Wipes
For cleaning, I'd much rather prefer the old-fashioned cleanser scrubber. Used them on my bathroom counter and found that it doesn't pick up dust at all...although on the container, it does say to first, "wipe before disinfecting"...which... +
For cleaning, I'd much rather prefer the old-fashioned cleanser scrubber. Used them on my bathroom counter and found that it doesn't pick up dust at all...although on the container, it does say to first, "wipe before disinfecting"...which makes me think: this is kind of redundant. If you clean well with regular cleanser, it should be sufficient to disinfect.
That said, once my counter was cleaned up, these disposable wipes were good for quick clean-ups and even some stubborn stuck-on stains. I even used it on a glass bottle that had some sticky stuff left on it from the sticker price tag - got that out no problem! Also good for toilets (again, for quick wipes). Smells okay.
Because I got this as a sample, I can't say for sure, but if I had to pay more for this over other disinfectant wipes, I wouldn't bother. The container's pretty, but it's still so bulky that I wouldn't leave it on my counter. It's the equivalent of trying to make maxi-pads more "discreet"....you just can't! I tuck mine away in my cupboard anyway. When I first got the wipes, I actually found it to be too soapy (which left soapy streaks). It's better now (~ a week later), but that worries me because it seems to be drying out. Lastly, the wipes don't "pop up" properly. I've had to dig in there to grab a wipe a couple of times (they're supposed to "pop up" like how kleenex boxes are...)
I gave it a "very good" for quality because they do feel very strong and sturdy. Didn't fall/rip apart. However, once again, I feel it's only good for quick clean-ups. For more heavier-duty cleaning, stick to the old-fashioned scrubber!
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Bent Beauty Industries Inc
This Yaletown beauty salon is quite trendy, and for an average Joe like me, it's those types that are a little intimidating to walk into because you feel so self-conscious. Well, I tried it anyway because they have this awesome deal going on... +
This Yaletown beauty salon is quite trendy, and for an average Joe like me, it's those types that are a little intimidating to walk into because you feel so self-conscious. Well, I tried it anyway because they have this awesome deal going on right now. $80 for 17 services!!! Includes 2 free hair cuts (you make your money back already, right there), complimentary style, free 30 min massage, free tan, and then discounts off various products/services (e.g. 50% off manicure or pedicure, $100 towards botox...).
I'm trying to figure out what the catch is, and still haven't quite figured it out yet. Could they be out of business by the end of summer??? Not sure.
The reasons I'm not recommending this are: 1) service is terrible and 2) my haircut wasn't that great (for something that would have cost me $60, I expected more). The service thing is a big one. I walked in, mentioned that I had an appointment and then proceeded to ask about the deal. Got the deal, then sat down and waited for my appointment. They forgot about the appointment...even though that was the first thing I mentioned to them. A friend of mine had similar experiences. Had a tough time even trying to set up an appointment - the salon wouldn't return her calls, and when she did manage to talk to someone, they were being pretty snooty.
Then the haircut. Started out okay, but they left out the scalp massage that's supposed to come with the haircut. What really got to me though was how the stylist kept slamming everything about what I currently do: my last stylist, my current shampoo/conditioners, hair products. Tried to sell me a product, to which I replied, "I've got x product at home already...is that okay?" Of course, he says it's not, and that I should get their salon's product instead.
If the deal wasn't so good, I definitely wouldn't recommend it, but hey, if you've got $80 to burn and you've got thick skin, may as well try it. Make sure you do it soon though, because my 3rd reason for not recommending it: I still think the deal is too good to be true.
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Maybelline New York Lash Stiletto Mascara
I was really excited to try this new mascara, especially since the packaging looks so sleek! However, I was a little disappointed that the effect wasn't as exciting as its packaging. While I don't recall any claims for "bolder" lashes or... +
I was really excited to try this new mascara, especially since the packaging looks so sleek! However, I was a little disappointed that the effect wasn't as exciting as its packaging. While I don't recall any claims for "bolder" lashes or "100 times volume", what it does claim to do is lengthen lashes. I guess in a sense it does lengthen lashes as any product that coats your lashes would - it just makes your lashes stand out more. Nothing special. Nothing extraordinary. I would personally prefer mascaras that make your lashes look fuller.
For those who prefer a more natural look, you may want to try this product. What I like about it is that it's not clumpy, and looks barely-there. The flipside then is that, well, it's barely there! Not very dramatic, so might not be enough for an evening glam look. It's good for wearing to the office though. Mind you, I only apply one coat, so perhaps results would be different with a 2nd coat?
I haven't had any problems washing it off. Usually comes off clean with regular cleanser and water, unlike my previous mascara where I couldn't get away without first using eye makeup remover.
Overall, if you're looking for inexpensive day-wear mascara or something more natural, you should give this a try. If you're looking to be wowed, I'd suggest trying another product.
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Karma lounge pants
Would I recommend it? Meh, I'm on the fence. Their clothing is definitely very stylish. I bought a pair of shorts and lounge pants over Christmas (and they were on sale). I was so excited to wear them! Yes, I know..the shorts are probably only... +
Would I recommend it? Meh, I'm on the fence. Their clothing is definitely very stylish. I bought a pair of shorts and lounge pants over Christmas (and they were on sale). I was so excited to wear them! Yes, I know..the shorts are probably only good for yoga and given they didn't have drawstrings, probably shouldn't be used for stuff like running and volleyball. Needless to say, when I wore them to vball, the shorts kept sliding down on me, so I had to keep pulling them back up. Maybe the ones with drawstrings (not sure if they even have that) would be better for non-yoga sports.
The lounge pants were very comfy (and again, stylish). I took very good care in washing, making sure I didn't wash them with cottons (as recommended on the tag that it came with). I only wash them with other dry-fit stuff, but even then, the pants started getting all worn out and "pilly" (i.e., those little round balls of fuzz) after about a month's worth of wear, especially near the bum area. That, and it kinda sticks to itself, so when you have your pants folded and then unfold them, it makes this clingy/sticky/staticky sound. With respect to the bum comment, it's not like I purposely rub the bum area over rough surfaces to wear it out!
My Nike dry-fit pants that I bought from the Nike outlet has fared better. Overall, I wouldn't recommend buying their stuff unless they make some improvements in the quality of the material used. If you can get their stuff for a really good deal, then go for it...you'll definitely look good!...but if you expect good quality material, save your money.
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Spa Utopia at the Pan Pacific
I'm reviewing the Spa Utopia in North Vancouver. I had a friend who volunteered for Tourism Vancouver and had to ("had to"!) check out both the Pan Pacific one and the North Van one. She recommended the North Van spa. I'm so glad I took her... +
I'm reviewing the Spa Utopia in North Vancouver. I had a friend who volunteered for Tourism Vancouver and had to ("had to"!) check out both the Pan Pacific one and the North Van one. She recommended the North Van spa. I'm so glad I took her recommendation! The staff there are SOO friendly and make every effort to make you feel special. Once you walk in to the spa area, you totally feel like you're in a different world (it's so serene with the trickling water sounds and dimmed lights!). Changing rooms are complete with probably every amenity needed (showers, soap, shampoo, lockers, robe, slippers, sauna, spa water, hair dryer, etc, etc).
My first time there, I was blown away! My boyfriend and I both had the Classic Escape package: massage, facial, and pedicure...all for a pretty decent price (and I'm not exactly Ms. Money Bags). We both came out of the spa SOOO relaxed. Sometimes, Costco even has discounted gift cards. My boyfriend treated me to the same package just recently (August) and he was able to get said gift cards. I was just as satisfied this second time around. If I were to choose only one service though, I'd definitely get the massage. First time around, I had a lady and she wasn't a Registered Massage Therapist. 2nd time around, I had a guy and he was an RMT. Not sure what made the difference, but the 2nd time around, I definitely felt way more relaxed (like putty!).
The manicure was alright...I think I can probably get the same results if I did my own nails...not much pampering involved in the manicure portion of this particular package. Facial was also okay. While your mask is on, you have the option of getting a foot massage or a scalp massage. Both times, I chose the scalp massage...meh, wasn't anything deeply relaxing or anything. I did see some improvement in my skin afterwards though.
Overall, worth the splurge if just for the relaxing atmosphere! Get the Costco gift cards...it'll be worth it!
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Origins High Potency Night-A-Mins
I have pretty dry skin, especially during Canadian winters, and this cream works wonders to keep my face moisturized. Funny enough, I bumped into a friend returning this product because it irritated her skin, and that's how I was intrigued to try it... +
I have pretty dry skin, especially during Canadian winters, and this cream works wonders to keep my face moisturized. Funny enough, I bumped into a friend returning this product because it irritated her skin, and that's how I was intrigued to try it for myself. I'm glad I did!
PROS:
- Smells really nice (though I recently bought one from the U.S. and it smelled a bit more chemically than the Canadian version).
- Only need a small amount
- Never had dry skin after using this (used to be dry in the cheek, nose and mouth area)
- Haven't had problems with breakouts (though that's not a huge problem for me)
CONS:
- If anything, might be the price, but personally I don't find that it's THAT expensive. Can't really think of any other cons.
- Since my friend did have problems with it, it might not be suitable for all skin types. However, you can always return it for a full refund.
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Origins Modern Friction
I used to think all scrubs were the same (I mean, they all do the same thing, right? Exfoliate). However, what sets this apart from the cheaper drugstore brands is that it's SUPER gentle on your face and it doesn't have the strong chemical smell... +
I used to think all scrubs were the same (I mean, they all do the same thing, right? Exfoliate). However, what sets this apart from the cheaper drugstore brands is that it's SUPER gentle on your face and it doesn't have the strong chemical smell that some brands might have. I got a small tube as a sample, but even that small tube lasted a long time. I loved it so much I went back to buy the tub. You really only need a small amount to do the job, and after using this (even if I don't use it 2-3 times weekly as recommended) my face feels so much smoother! No skin irritations, no dryness (though my skin's not exactly the sensitive type).
Overall, it's a good product that's not too pricey. If it doesn't work out for you, Origins has a really good return policy.
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H20+ Raspberry Guava Moisture Boosting Body Balm
I actually bought a big bottle of the Kiwi-Cassis one and I absolutely LOVE it! I always have dry hands and this lotion works wonder. Unlike other lotions that don't feel like they've "coated" your hands, this one does so, yet doesn't feel greasy... +
I actually bought a big bottle of the Kiwi-Cassis one and I absolutely LOVE it! I always have dry hands and this lotion works wonder. Unlike other lotions that don't feel like they've "coated" your hands, this one does so, yet doesn't feel greasy. Keeps my hands moisturized for a long time. I bought my big bottle on sale, so it was an excellent deal for me.
I also use it on my rough feet and it really moisturizes well...no need to use those special foot lotions.
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