It's here, it's here! I was so delighted when I came home after a long week at work and found this on my doorstep. It's the Etude House Dreaming Swan Collection! When I initially saw the promo pictures for this collection, I was so excited! I'd pretty much missed the boat on other major Etude House Collections (The Minnie Mouse Collection, Etoinette Collection, etc) and could never get my hands on the items I wanted. But this time, I pretty much got the ENTIRE collection. It may seem excessive, but hey, I work HARD for my money and like to enjoy it. Plus, I know you guys were probably as antsy as I was. Anyways, I made a video review on my channel, The Beauty Breakdown, so definitely check that out and see if you like any of the products! But here's the blog post, so you can get a closer view of all the products :)
Now on to the items :) Here are the lippies! I unfortunately, could not get one of them because they were sold on the Etude House website, but I got the other four! Also note that these lipsticks are ALL MATTE. I was not expecting this when I ordered, but they are matte. So for those of you who don't like matte lip products, sorry :( But luckily, they're still very creamy and apply very nicely. Also, they're very pigmented, which in my opinion, is always a good thing!
My Blooming Lip-Talk in PK022 in Jete Pink.
My Blooming Lips-Talk in OR225 in Pointe Coral
My Blooming Lip-Talk in PK024 in En Haut Pink
My Blooming Lips-Talk in PP502 Releve Purple MY FAVE!
Next, let's look at the Eye and Cheek Colors. Personally, I consider these mainly blushes (even though you can use them on your eyes) because they're not colors I'd usually use on my eyes. Also, they're not the darkest colors ever. They offer more of a nice wash of color instead of a super pigmented color. They're all shimmery and super smooth. They blend really nicely on the skin as well :) They also come with a super cute puff! I do want to mention the the pictures on the tin are not printed on, they're stickers :/ I don't like that because stickers tend to get a little ratty looking after you use it for a while. oh well...
Eye and Cheek in #01 Jete Pink. This one is fairly light and would probably only show up on lighter skin tones. For tan skin tones, this would be more of a highlight color.
Eye and Cheek in #02 Pointe Coral. This is a nicely peachy color, but again it's more of a highlight color on darker skin tones. On light skin tones, this would probably show up nicely.
Eye and Cheek in #03 Arabesque Rosy. This is one of the more pigmented ones. This shows up as a nice burnt coral/rose color.
Eye and Cheek in #04 Releve Purple. This is a light lavender color and again will probably show up on light skin tones, but not dark ones.
Eye and Cheek in #05 En Haut Pink. This one is the most universally appealing color. It's similar to NARS Orgasm Blush, because it's a nice peachy/pink with a gold undertone. This one is more pigmented.
For this collection, Etude House re-released their veiling pact. I'm pretty sure you can get this at anytime, but they repackaged it for the Dreaming Swan collection. I have never tried their veiling pact, so I wanted to get it to try it :) I haven't used this yet, but I can tell you, it obviously won't work on darker skin tones. Sorry guys, I feel your pain! It's almost a little too light for me, but I can make it work with some bronzer. Love the packaging though :) The picture is actually printed on the compact, so you don't have to worry about it pealing off like the blushes!
It comes with a little puff and also has the Dreaming Swan logo imprinted in the powder!
Next, are the Dreaming Swan Shine Volumer. These are meant for use on both the face and the eyes. However, I would NOT recommend using these on the face. They are so glittery and shimmery, they'd really only be pretty on the eyes. I haven't tried these out a ton yet, but I'm excited to see how they look!
Shiner Volumer in #01 Dreaming Swan. A nice pearly, white color. Has some pink glitter to it.
Shine Volumer in #02 Bright Toeshoes. A beige shimmer. Has some gold glitter in it.
Shine Volumer in #03 Shiny Tutu. The perfect rose gold. A nice combination of the two colors.
Here's a swatch of the colors. Going from top to bottom, it's #01, #02 and #03.
Finally, the nail polish kits! I was close to passing on these, but I honestly love colors like these. I'm a big fan a neutral nail colors because I think it looks so pretty and girly. So I got both kits because I figured I would get use out of them. They both come with sticker decals, but I didn't take pictures of them. I showed them in the video, so if you're curious about those, watch the video ;)
Dreaming Swan Nail Kit in #01 Dreaming Swan. This has a light pink color and a gold shimmery color.
Dreaming Swan Nail Kit in #02 Shiny Tutu. My favorite out of the two I think! It has a creamy, vanilla color and a shimmery beige color.
And that's it! I did get the little bag, since I bought the value kit (which included the bag, lipstick and blush in pointe coral). I got it because it was cheaper than buying it separately and I showed the bag in the video! I didn't get the brush or the cushion compact case because I didn't need a little brush like that and I don't have the Etude House Cushion Foundation.. maybe one day :) Anyways, I hope this was helpful, so you could see what the products actually look like. For me, I know this is important because I have to order online, and sometimes the colors they show are not very accurate. Let me know if you love the collection as much as I do and don't forget to subscribe to my channel and share this post!
Happy April everyone! I posted the video for this last week, but haven't had the chance until now to actually make a post on it for those of you who prefer to read their reviews :) I was excited to try this Berrisom Lip Tint Pack in Chic Purple because it seemed so unique!
So let's get to the breakdown...
Application...
I can't remember the last time I used a squeeze tube lip product! Honestly! For me, I usually use an applicator so it was interesting trying to use the squeeze tube. However, because the formula is a bit thicker it was hard for me to be accurate with the application. I guess some people use brushes for this product? Seems like a lot of work...
Right after application.. don't know if you can see how thick it is!
Formula...
Boy, this stuff is thick. And tacky too! I assume it has to be though in order for it to peel off properly. I also wanted to mention that this formula does have a weird smell... not sure if I like that either... It did peel off nicely though. It did not pull off any skin and hurt at all.. I was a little afraid of that!
Results...
Right after I peeled it off, I could definitely see that my lips had a nice stain. The color is pretty too! But there were tinyyy little pieces of the mask left on my lips. I actually didn't notice it right away... I noticed it when I went back and looked at the pictures and footage! It also does smudge, smear, or rub off on anything.. Nice!
Right after I peeled it off.
Longevity...
Whoa, my lips look dry. This is about 7-8 hours later without reapplying anything to my lips. You can see that I clearly need chapstick. I ate and drank with this on, and you can see there is a little bit of the color left. However, I probably wouldn't have noticed the color if I wasn't looking for it....
Overall...
I really wanted to like this, I really did. But I have super dry lips, so I need something on them pretty much at all times to keep them from looking gross. The color was very pretty right after, however the color didn't last the whole 12 hours like promised :( I like the overall idea of this, but wish it last longer, was more moisturizing, and didn't have an awful smell!
I was really intrigued by this product because it's a super famous product in the Korean Skincare world. It's from Secret Key and it's their Snow White Milky Pack The Premium. I did a video review of this a little bit ago, but I thought I'd also make a post on it for those of you who prefer to read reviews!
Let's get to the product breakdown...
Packaging...
This is just a simple squeeze tube. On the front of the tube, it gives a brief description of what the product is supposed to do!
Directions...
This is a pretty simple process! You just apply a decent layer to your skin and then let it sit on your skin for about 2-3 minutes. After that, you just wash it off your skin.
Application...
This product goes on very smoothly. It is a little on the thick side just so it's easier to apply a nice layer on. You do need to wash it off with warm water because the warmth helps remove it from your skin. It does leave a "layer" behind, which some people have complained about. Some people don't like this because they feel like it's heavy. However, for me, it didn't feel to sticky. I actually didn't feel it on my skin after I washed it off.
Results...
You'll have to ignore the expressions in the pictures below. I took screen shots from my video. haha. But as you can see, this is a slight brightening effect! It makes my skin look luminous and bright. It's nothing too dramatic, but it just makes my skin look healthy. This effect does wear off through out the day however.
So you're new to Korean skincare or you're just looking to try out some new products... I bet you're OVERWHELMED. When I first started looking into Korean skincare, I couldn't believe how many options there were. Between the different brands, lines, and products, I didn't know what to think! I knew I wanted to try some skincare products, but I literally didn't know where to start. After months of researching, I was prepared! I knew what was popular, what people enjoyed, and what were considered "cult favorites" in the Asian Beauty World.
I then traveled the Seoul, Korea with my list in hand...
And, well, that list went out the window. I bought everything I could get my hands on. (If you want to see the haul of what I bought, here is Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3. Yes, I had to split it up into 3 parts!)
But for those of you who don't want to do that, I complied a list of the Top 10 Korean Skincare Products that are notoriously popular in asian skincare. These are the products that I feel are the most raved about, and are a good outline of what to buy while in Korea! All of these products are tried, tested and true, and here are my honest opinions about them. BTW, if you have you're own recommendations, please comment below and share with the rest of us! Again, this is what seems to be the most popular Korean skincare products in my own personal opinion.
So let's get to the breakdown...
So I'm listing these products off in no particular order!
Etude House Wonder Pore Freshener
This one for me was difficult. I've heard so many good things about this product and I know a lot of people love it. However, it didn't work miracles for me. This is just your average toner in my opinion. It does remove makeup residue, oil and dirt from my skin, but this didn't change the appearance of my skin. But for some people, this is a Holy Grail type of product. That's why I included it in this list.
Nature Republic Aloe Vera Soothing Gel
I love this stuff when it gets hot where I live! It's nice because it's light and smells nice and fresh. It feels cooling and soothing when you apply it to your skin, which makes it great when it's hot. Since it's not super moisturizing, I usually only use this during the spring and summer, not really during the winter when my skin is more dry. Plus, you can use it on your face, skin, hair and nails so it has a ton of functions. It's also super cheap.
Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence
This is something I use twice a day and love. It's nice and light, absorbs right into the skin, and really preps the skin for your skincare routine. I've definitely noticed a difference since I started using this product! It makes my skin look brighter and smoother. It also lasts a really long time!
This product is even Waffle-approved!
Innisfree Cleansing Foams
I love both of these cleansing foams. They have a nice, thick lather and really clean your skin. It also doesn't strip the skin of its moisture. Therefore, it's the perfect cleanser for me because it doesn't leave my dry skin feeling drier, but it makes my skin feel super squeaky clean! I also love Innisfree products because they try to use more natural ingredients.
Laneige Water Sleeping Pack_EX
This stuff is amazing. You apply if after you've finished your skincare routine at night, leave it on while you sleep, and wash it off in the morning. It makes your skin look nice and plump and really softens the skin. This is a super famous product and Target has even started carrying this brand! So it's much more accessible, which is nice.
Innisfree Super Volcanic Clay Mask
This is the ultimate clay mask for me! Clay masks are a must-have in general, but this one is by far my favorite. It does a good job of sucking out all of the debris from your skin without leaving your skin feeling tight and dry. I know a lot of people love and enjoy this product, and it's definitely a cult-fave!
The Face Shop Rice Water Rice Cleansing Water
This is another one of those products for me that I have mixed feelings about. It does an awesome job of cleaning your skin and getting makeup and oil out of your skin without needing to wash it off after. However, for me, it does feel a little sticky after I use this. I almost feel like I want to wash my skin after I use it, even though I know technically I don't have to. However, I know this is really popular in the Korean skincare world and people have compared it to the ultra-famous Bioderma. But personally, I'd take Bioderma over this any day. haha.
SkinFood Black Sugar Mask Wash Off
Boy, I love this stuff. It really makes my skin feels smooth and I love that you can dilute the sugar to your liking. Therefore, if you like a super abrasive exfoliant, you can apply a small amount of water or if you like a more gentle exfoliant, you can use more water to help melt the sugar granules. Either way, this stuff is great. Plus, my sister, who isn't that into skincare in general, loves this stuff too. I think that shows how good this product really is!
Innisfree Sheet Masks
Now, if you're going to Korea and really any Asian country, stock up on sheet masks! In Asia, these things are so much cheaper than they are elsewhere. I personally really like the ones from Innisfree. They are a nice pick-me-up when you're skin feels like it needs a little TLC, and a cheap way to treat yourself. They come in literally every "flavor" possible too!
SkinFood Milk Shake Point Make-up Remover
Everyone who wears makeup uses makeup remover. So this is a definite must have if you're ever going to Korea. I love SkinFood in general, but this stuff is awesome! It removes the most stubborn makeup with ease, even waterproof mascara. Plus, it doesn't burn your eyes or delicate skin!
Anyways, there's my quick list of the Top 10 Korean Cult / Must Have Skincare Products. Do you agree with this list or what would you add? It was definitely difficult to narrow down because let's face it, I love Korean skincare in general. Who knows, maybe I'll have a completely different list a year from now and need to make a new list. And yes, I am working on the Makeup version of this, however, it's much more difficult for me to narrow down!
I recently decided I wanted to change up my hair a little and wanted to go for a lighter look since spring is coming closer. However, I know my hair...and boy is my hair STUBBORN. I use to attempt to dye my hair back in high school, but it never really "colored". I guess that's a typical characteristic of asian hair...
So first I decided to go to a salon and get it professionally colored. However, as you can tell in my videos on my channel, The Beauty Breakdown, my hair didn't really look any different. I don't know if my hair stylist didn't have a lot of experience coloring asian hair, or if my hair was THAT stubborn.
A couple weeks later, I decided to give it one last go and try hair dye that was specifically designed for asian hair. I went to my local Korean beauty store and found this bubble hair kit.
When I first saw this, I was like "WHAAAA, LG makes hair products too?!"
The color reference guide
The contents of the box included the pump bottle, the developer, shampoo and conditioner packets, and protective gear included gloves, ear covers, and a plastic shawl.
You mix solutions one and two together and just swirl them together! You don't want to shake because that ruins the solution... so try not to make any bubbles. Then, like you would with any box color, you just apply it all over your hair. I love that this was "bubble-y" because it made the application of it much easier! You could basically shampoo it into your hair, so the color came out very evenly.
You then leave the product in for 25 minutes (I left mine in for 30 minutes), and then you wash it out using the packets below.
BEFORE
As you can see, my hair is a little lighter from when I went to the salon. Naturally, I have very dark brown hair (almost black!).
AFTER
You can see that it looks MUCH lighter! So I was happy with the results. It looks pretty red in the picture, but in real life and in sunlight, it looks much more brown. I was hoping for an ashier look, but this will do! I was just happy my hair looked different. Although, I don't know if you can really tell, but this hair color didn't have the best root coverage. If you look closely, you can still see my darker roots.
This is what the color looks like in direct sunlight (I'm facing a window)
My hair didn't feel super dry, so I was happy it still was healthy and soft! Plus, it made my hair look nice and shiny :)
Overall: *** (and a half)
Coverage: ****
Root Coverage: **
Ease of Application: ****
Shininess: ****
Overall, I liked this box color. It was easy to use, came out evenly, and didn't make my hair feel super dry. I just wish it lightened my hair even more and was a bit more ashy. Plus, the root coverage wasn't that great. So I would recommend this product, but next time I color my hair, I think I'll try a different bubble brand!
