Category Archives: Review

Sep 22

Home away from Home – Haul and Thoughs

After the entire blur of moving to another country, I am finally starting to settle in and have some time to enjoy my old habits :). This has been a period of so many downs… but, then again, an equal amount of ups!
For those that don’t know (and I think there are allot of…) I moved from my home country to the Netherlands, in order to continue my studies. And I have to say, the dutch way… seemed at first, a very different way, then what I was used to..or even prepared for. But now I love it! To the full!

What made me do this post is the fact that there is some mid-season sales and offers going on. On good products your have really good bargains ( from outfits to my personal favorite…make-up!!). A certain such event that caught my eye is Prijzencircus, going on now at V&D (I don’t really know if the shop is outside of the Netherlands). And more precisely…a bargain sale at Sephora, where you get 3 products at 10 euro (from the Sephora brand) and 15% discount at all the other brands they host. *devilish grin*

Also, I went ahead and started trying some drugstore brands that seem to really be used here. I think that enough people have raved on Essence and Catrice, but they are really nice, considering the price. As a bonus, none tests on animals and Catrice also does not include parabens or mineral oil in it’s products.

Let’s get a closer look:

 
  
 
  
* Foundation: Matt Mousse, shade sand beige, Catrice – I really liked the texture. It goes on smooth and covers almost everything up. But it goes really fast away. After only two weeks I’m hitting the bottom, so it’s kinda sad. (4.99 euro – Krudvat)
* Concealer: AllRound Concealer, Catrice – I have to say that I’m really surprised by the product. I had such sort of a pallet a while back and I wasn’t that happy with it, because the colors that were meant to neutralize blemishes and under eye circles were too strong and would not fade well. But these work their magic, fade, but cover everything up! (2.99 euro – Krudvat)
*Nail polish: Studio nails, Better than gel nails, Essence –  A really thick, yet fast drying formula. You can use it as a normal base, to make your nailpolish last longer, than with another base, use on it’s self, to give a nice, elegant touch or mix it up with the nail tips that can be found in the series (2.49 euro – Krudvat)
* Lipgloss: Stay With Me, Essence, shades (in order as they are in the picture) 03 Candy Bar, 07 Kiss Kiss Kiss, 02 My Favorite Milkshake – For a gloss, they really are longlasting and very moisturizing! And at the price of 1.99 euro…you can collect them all (1.99 euro – Krudvat)
 
Sephora, in the V&D shops, has an offer until the 24th Sept. in which you can get 3 products for 10 euro. The offer is on the cosmetics from their actual brand, so now is the time to get those products on which you have been dreaming on. Also, they offer 15% off on the other brands found in their shop! 

*Sephora, Base Sublimatrice Primer, shade Bone mine – It seems ok, really giving a subtle glow to the skin. But the product contains parabens and mineral oil, so use in moderation or apply on moisturized complexion (at least you can have some sort of protection from it, until the cream goes away in the skin)
*Sephora, Perfect Cover Foundation – Paraben Free! I do like the coverage, so far, but only used it to swap it for the haul. More info later on.

  Left side: with primer; Right side: no primer

 
*Sephora Rouge, shade R15 (decollete – cream) – Paraben Free!! I always liked Sephora lipsticks. They stay on!! And are very moisturizing. The shade could be considered a nude, since it’s very close to the natural lip color, just a shade darker. That’s great for me, since I’ve been hunting for a lip product that I don’t have to apply and apply…and apply….(and no, I think lip stains are way to chemically for my taste…*ew*) 
 
 *Sephora Lip gloss, shade red velvet – Paraben Free!! I have already talked about this product, but haven’t really showed it. I love the effect it give on the lips. Makes them teasing, sweet red! (got this from back home, 12lei)
 
  
 *Sephora, Hydrating Blush, shade No. 12 (raspberry sheen) – Paraben Free!! I love this color for autumn!! It’s a dark rose color, with golden infusions. I used to own this color, from another brand, but the container was so flimzy, that it made the product shatter! So I’m happy now to have it again ^^.

 *Sephora, Doe eyed Felt Liner, shade brown – Great for day looks…I kinda want to keep the liquid black liner for the evenings 😛

 Last but to least
*Sephora, Lash plumper mascara, shade ultra black – Paraben Free!! Can’t say much yet about the product, since I did not use it 😛 But I really like the brush and feel like I’m gonna get some effect out of it *grin*

 As for outfits, you should definitely hit V&D (good offers) and I also went to HEMA for some basics, like simple shirts and blouses and undergarments. I really like the materials! And they don’t loose shape or break that easily! (A small hint: if your looking for some makeup brushes, just starting out or in the need of something cheap and good, you can also find then there! But I can’t say I really trust the make-up itself *worried face*)

Hope this was helpful!! Have a great end of a week!
Kissu!

P.s.:
Just so you know: none of the products are tested on animals. I wouldn’t buy them, if they were!
Disclaimer: If you did not figure it out…I brought these products from my own finances.
Photos of the products can be used without my consent. But a message would be nice 🙂

Mar 14

Spring breeze – Spring Make-up + Review

Hey guys! Hope you are all well!
Spring made it’s way…for now…in the city, with the dust and heat that follow, of course. But in any case…Longer and warmer days are here ^^.
Today I went on a stroll with a friend in one of our malls and I was very much taken in with their spring add *grins*. I really liked how the model had her make-up done, so I took a picture fast and redid it today for you guys ^^.


Be warned that a lot of blending is in order..and a few colors also….This is because I do not own a few of them…such as a very bright pink shadow…So I had to mix. And also…the pay off isn’t the same…but… in any case, I used: light sky blue, a bright pink blusher ( all your make-up items are extremely versatile ), plum, deep mauve, orange, black (to make the colors around the edge darker) yellow and a shimmery white (as a highlight).



Tip:
– Don’t over pack your colors on…Add bit by bit. It will reduce fallout and you will be able to control how much color you have.
– Don’t take the color very up or too much into the inner corner. I will look over done, taking up too much space on your face. Be elegant!

Also…because of how much I liked my Alverde concealer, I went ahead and brought a foundation and mascara ^^.


The foundation have a very nice coverage, not going thick, feeling heavy, or making your face look like a mask. It is based on minerals, for a mixed and oily complexion. But, don’t think it will make your skin dry. It takes care nicely of each and every bit of your skin ^^.
And for me…I have finally found a foundation that matches perfectly my skin color!! I also brought a mascara “Precision” which I like, but it make my lashes look really “natural gifted” like….I’m the girl that kinda likes “spiders” on her eyes ^^;;;;. So it’s a somewhat change for me.

What I used:

Face:
* Alverde Mineral Make-up Foundation, shade 01 Naturelle;
* Alverde Mineral Camouflage Powder, shade Sand;
* Farmasi, Happy Face powder, shade 03;
* Farmasi, Tender Blush On, shade 169;
* Miss Sporty, Bronzing Powder, shade Sun Kissed.

Eyes:
* Sephora Pallete, pinks and purples (plum, mauve) + whites and blacks (black, shimmery white);
* Profusion Pallete, nr. 06 (light blue, orange);
* Seventeen Mono Eyeshadow, shade Gold;
* Sephora Pencil, shade white;
* Alverde Precision Mascara.

Lips:
* Farmasi, shade 12.


I do hope you enjoy it! Have an easy week!
Kissu

Feb 24

Alverde Natur Kosmetik – Camouflage

Hey guys! Hope your all well!
I want to share with you some facts about a brand I have known for some time now…but only just recently brought from: Alverde. (see link here) (or in Romanian)

Alverde is a DM Drogerie Markt, german brand, almost entirely VEGAN! I say almost because a few products, like chapsticks and hand cream, contain beeswax. You can find a list of the ingredients here. And also….you can find more details on the brand itself, by reading the post of another blogger, and user of the products, “That’s the break’s Blog”.



From the very start I can say that I’m in love with it! It’s more than affordable….I paid around 20 lei (sooo….less than 5 euro? ^^ give or take), the pay off from the tinniest amount is incredible, the consistency being very creamy, yet light, perfect for both blemishes and under eye area (cuz’ I do hope you know….that softer, liquid like products are better for under the eyes…and creamier ones, for face and neck line). It blends well and it’s a bit more on the full coverage side (funny, since it’s so light).
I have yet to put it on my face….since I go straight to the bathroom and take my make-up off, when I get home…but as you can see from the pictures, the coverage on my hand cuts (I’m still trying to teach the bunny to talk and tell me when she wants down from my arms *laughs loudly*) is pretty good! Also, the amount, in the pan, is more than sufficient! I’m really pleased with the product and I am looking forward to getting more from the brand. *kicks away all her nearly ending products, grinning innocently*



The color I picked out is 002 “Beige”. There were also “Sand” and “Strawberry”, only as a tester. But I’m again giving a shout out:
PLEASE, IF YOU DON’T FIND TESTERS, ASK FOR THEM! DON’T OPEN THE CONTAINING PACKS! OTHER PEOPLE MIGHT JUST WANT TO GET THEM AFTER YOU OPEN THEM! IF THERE AIN’T A TESTER AND THE SALES PERSON TELLS YOU TO OPEN IT, LOOK AND SEE IF ONE PRODUCT IS ALREADY OPEN…BUT DON’T OPEN THEM ALL AT ONCE!
I think you guessed my problem….ALL….*sighs* seriously….all of the products were opened…and they didn’t have any extra >< *mutters under her breath*. And lets say the sales lady….wasn't really…wanting to be helpful. In the end…I found one that was just pinched slightly (sending out my thanks to those that actually get the idea, to test lightly), took it and ran!! :))


But in the end….I love the product! Have you tried anything from Alverde? How do you find their line?

Hope it was helpful!
Kissu

Feb 6

Show some love


I’m giving a shout to all those that read and like this blog!

I would like to say to all of you a warm THANK YOU! I just love it when I get really nice comments from all of you, feeling even warmer when people appreciate and request my services! Even if I don’t update as much now as I have been, you have always shown your support and there are no greater words I can say to thank you. “The Show” goes on because of the awesome feedback you give me! Thank you once more!

My request now…from you….is this: I really appreciate all your messages, but I would like to ask of you to subscribe to my blog if you like it ^^. Also….I finally managed to make a FaceBook page, more ways for you to follow the posts and see recent activities. On another hand, BlogLoving is a great new way you can follow, not only mine, but a lot of other great blogs on all kinds of topics!

So please…Show some love for those that write for you and subscribe! It means the world to us to see that people appreciate our work, making possible for more opportunities to be attracted for us and our subscribers!

Remember….Subscribing is free and easy to do….And everytime a new post comes up, you get a notice…So you don’t have to tune in daily to see if your favorite blog has a new post ^^. More simple, huh?

Show some love to those that make your day a little brighter ^^
Kissu

Feb 5

Say YES – Sephora Collection

Hey guys!

Due to recent events, I once more decided to start writing in English. (I know…you must hate me by now ^^;;; ). I guess I’ll be adding up even more hate as I post another review and not a make up…that will come also I promise!!

For today I have something really yummy for your hair! The organic collection from Sephora for your hair, body and face. I tried a while back their lip balm and loved it! Since i can’t seem to find any shampoo that won’t have SLS or other methyls, propyls and so on, I started a more or less hunt for organic products and ingredients to start making my own.
Since I can’t really make liquid shampoo and conditioner, I went ahead and got the “Say YES to..” shampoo and conditioner from Sephora. This line is 95%-97% organic (on what I got, the only thing not really organic is the fragrance), products containing ingredients mainly from carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers and blueberryes, but also having other oils and extracts as: Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract, Olive Fruit Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Green Tea Extract. You can see the other ingredients here ^^.

What can I say about it…..I LOVE IT! I haven’t felt my hair so clean, yet smooth and fluffy, in some time! And a little does go a long way…no over the top foam or having to rinse it for good minutes…I really like it!

And even more, quote:
“Yes To is a cruelty-free company and we NEVER test on animals. We love the little creatures!Something we are very proud of is the PETA2 endorsement of our hair and skin care products.“
*jumps up and down and claps happy*

Prices were: 45 lei each. ( you can see the prices in euro by clicking on the linked words )

In other words, I recommend the brand with all my heart!! Keep yourself safe and healthy, while helping the planet also!
Hope this was helpful!
Kissu

Jan 18

Winter Haul – La an nou…produse noi!

In primul rand vreau sa va urez un calduros “La multi ani!”, sanatate, noroc, fericire si sa se indeplineasca tot ce va doriti!(Cam tarziu…..dar gandul conteaza ^^)

Revenind la oile noastre…acesta este un mic haul, comandat in principal de la firma “Farmasi” in luna decembrie, Bourjois si Herbosophy.

Pentru cei ce nu stiu, “Farmasi” este o firma turceasca, produsele dorind a fi considerate profesionale, dar la jumatate de pret sau chiar mai putin. Sincera sa fiu…cu niste modificari, au un adevarat potential!

Produsele lor nu sunt testate pe animale (ceea ce este un punct important pentru mine), insa au o mare problema cu parabenii in produsele de fata. Ce pot spune…inca nu mi-a intrat total in cap ca trebuie sa cer informatii sau sa citesc total ingredientele. Norocul meu este faptul ca nu le folosesc decat cu o baza ce are ca principal scop protectia tenului fata de orice este rau din exterior si in plus…fondul de ten fiind pentru matifiere…il folosesc in principal atunci cand nu vreau sa existe vreo modificare in machiaj (ex: pe parcursul unei petreceri). In restul produselor comandate nu am observat prezenta acestora.

In orice caz, daca nu prea tineti cont de aceste lucruri…produsele in sine sunt geniale!Culori puternice, pigmentate, fara transfer si care sunt la preturi foarte comode pentru buzunar!








Farmasi
Face: * Stay Matte Foundation: nuantele 1 si 6;
* Stick Foundation: nuantele 1 si 7;
Lips: * Gleam Rouge Liquide Lipstick (in ordinea prezentarii): 12, 13, 17, 16, 20;
* True Color Lipstick: nuanta 14;
Ochi: * Catwalk Illusion Mascara, negru.

Tot in cursul acestui sezon, am primit cadou din partea unor prieteni, doua produse Bourjois: 3D gloss, nuanta “Nude egeric” si fardul mono, in nuanta “Raffine”. Glossul pot spune ca il folosesc zi de zi, fiind excelent pentru machiajul meu zilnic. Fardul este intr-o culoare pala, placuta, usor aurie. Se intinde bine si are o textura usor satinata. Imi place foarte mult culoarea si merge in multe combinatii si nu numai pentru ochi!




Fiind intr-o cautare pentru un gel de demachere care sa nu ma mai bombardeze cu toti parabenii (ca de…greu nene pe aici), picioarele mele m-au purtat intr-o farmacie mai high-end…ca sa zicem…unde am facut o oferta la produsele Herbosophy! Bun…ma uit rapid la finalul listei de ingrediente (ca de…tot patitul e cunoscator) si nu vad urma de parabeni!(mai jos fiind chiar scris si subliniat acest fapt) Fericita…ma uit si la inceput…cand ma pocneste un SLS care imi sparge bula mea de extaz. Pun frumos produsul la loc si incep o noua cautare. Nu va pot spune ca in nici 2 minute ma intorc fara prea multe sperante la acesta, dupa ce jumate din produsele din farmacie de demachere contineau un cocktail “placut” de parabeni cu SLS. (restul e adevarat ca nu aveau…dar si buzunarul meu era dupa la fel de nauc, ca o a doua zi dupa o betie crunta). Insa o mica steluta s-a intrevazut in produs cand am aflat ca nu contine un SLS ca toate SLS-urile…ci o varianta mult mai delicata si speciala pentru tenul acneic. Acuma….ce sa mai zic…ca tot romanul….dintre toate relele, macar il iau pe cel cu mai putin rau. Eu si podelele industriale 😉 . La casa mi s-a oferit si un balsam de buze, de la aceeasi firma, fiind inclus in promotie. Am zambit frumos, gandindu-ma din nou la parabenii mei, am luat produsul si spre mirarea mea….este chiar OK! Ingredientele sunt bune si textura este foarte placuta! Nu este grea, nu este lipicioasa si ramane pe buze, hidratandu-le mult timp (eu am obsesia sa pap rujurile…mi-a cam dat de furca acesta si in final m-am lasat pagubasa).

Herbosophy:
*Cleansing Gel – Oily/ Acneic skin.
*Lip Balm Nourishing, Spf 20.

Sper sa va ajute acest post!
Kissu

Nov 27

Avertisment!!!

Pentru toti cei care nu au destul timp, chef sau considera ca nu este necesar sa se uite pe ingredientele produselor care le cumpara!! Nu conteaza niciodata ambalajele frumos colorate sau dozele de parfum dintr-un produs!!

De fiecare data cand mergeti la cumparaturi si doriti sa cumparati detergeti, produse pentru igiena corpului sau intima, produse pentru igiena bucala, sau produse pentru bebelusi, cititi cu atentie ingredientele pentru a verifica daca contin SLS ( Sodium Lauryl Sulfate ) sau SLES ( Sodium Laureth Sulfate).

Acesti ingredienti sunt adaugati in compozitia cosmeticelor noastre pentru a crea mai multa spuma atunci cand le utilizam. Insa acestia sunt derivati din acid sulfuric si pot cauza probleme fatale in cazul utilizarii indelungate!

Aveti grija de corpurile voastre, cititi intotdeauna ceea ce contin produsele care le consumati sau utilizati! Oricum traim intr-o lume extrem de poluata…de ce sa aducem un adaos a acestora in corpurile noastre?!

Sep 9

Summer mini haul – Bits and pieces

Hey guys! Summer is over and the holiday almost also…*sad face*. But even so…I great this weather with open arms! I do enjoy the cold weather a lot more than the blazing one. Looking forward to winter…snow…and all the winter sports! Until then, let me show what I managed to get during this summer!

At first I want to point out that I “tried” to not walk in all the stores I wanted…success was on my side this year and I brought just some things for my treat, mostly!


I am going to start with face products first:


From Dermacol ( see page here ) I went and got their Satin base and Finishing powder. Both work wonders! The base really feels like it’s making a perfect double skin. The fixing powder, although white in the container, is invisible on the skin and blends the foundation making it look natural! (even if you put the foundation on in the most careless way!)

Lips next:




Lip gloss from Sephora, shade 20.
Lipstick from Manhattan Line, shade 150.

First line: H&M Brow liner, shade Blond.
Second line : Sephora lip crayon. shade 114.
Third line: Seventeen Creamy eye liner, shade White Light.

Went a little over with nail products, because I get bored fast with them:




I finally found a nail care product that helped my nails grow longer without any breaks, cracks and co. Jessica Recovery Basecoat for Brittle Nails is a hydrating polish for hard, but easily breakable.






H&M polishes in the Summer Collection ( Blue, Pure white, Purple and Green ) and in the Fall Collection, in shade Grey Sky. The formula is a little bit thicker, but the drying time is small and the finish always seems to be flawless. I never used a top coat with these. And they lasted for ages!! Not even one chip until I removed the color!

And last, but the ones I care for the most: jewelry!



The pendant has a Labradorit precious stone. Besides Moon stone…this is one of my favorite stones! Always changing..never looking the same…

In conclusion, lot’s of H&M in my list…Bits and pieces from everywhere. I do hope it’s helpful!

Have a great weekend!
Kissu!!