Korean Skincare Haul: Nature Republic Peeling Mask & Skinfood Fresh Apple Cream

Look at me, refreshing my love towards Korean skincare. I really missed my usual Korean reviews for a while now. Plus I always felt like I haven't really dipped my fingers into their wide range of skincare. I've promised myself I would try at least several Korean skincare bits before the end of this year. Maybe I'm easily impressed these days but I'm already fairly fascinated by their performance. Or at least I choose correctly for my always dry skin. Jolse is my favourite place to browse and shop as it's super easy to navigate, has free worldwide shipping and their offer refreshes regularly with new Korean releases.

Etude House Haul: Bubble Tea Sleeping Pack, Lips Talk & Play 101 Stick

Korean products are the best. As you might know from my Beginner's Guide to Korean Cosmetics that my favourite brand is Etude House. Not only because it's super cute and girly, but it also delivers pretty solid quality items. I usually shop Korean products on Jolse. Although I'm generally pleased with Etude House makeup, I have mixed feelings toward Etude House Bubble Tea Sleeping Pack (10,38€ on Jolse) in Strawberry. It's targeted for dry skin and it has a jelly type of consistency with small bubble tea beads. Sleeping mask is slightly sticky and you can actually sniff the alcohol - but still keeps my skin somehow locked with previously added moisture. I like to apply it as a final layer before all my serums, toners and light creams before bed. It's not my favourite skincare thingy but I do enjoy it's appearance.

New Korean Skincare Technology with Nanodiamonds: Teradia TD Repair

There's a new Korean technology on the market under the brand name Teradia. Teradia TD Repair series has been made with TD F.A.S.T. technology, a molecular design, for easy skin absorption of active ingredients. This technology is based on diamonds in molecular design to easily transfer active (plant) ingredients into the skin. Fast absorption, gradual targeting, effective absorption of high-concentrated ingredients and continuous hydration control is what TD F.A.S.T. technology promises. It shapes up firmness, even skintone and radiance with nano diamond formula, glutathione, calendula flower oil and grape seed extract. Sounds like an alienated product, right? Honestly, this is even a bit too much for me, so I'll try to easily explain my experience as I'm not a chemist to verify chemistry and technology of this unique product.

Holika Holika x DODO Cat Collection: Review, Test & Swatches

To combine makeup and cats, is the cutest way to grab anyone's attention. I (clearly) couldn't stay away from fairly recent Holika Holika x DODO Cat Collection, which was made in collaboration with French illustrator Audrey Jeanne and a cat lady herself. Entire collection is way too adorable to not admire at least one of the pieces. Pastel shades, cute cat prints and Holika Holika's style are match made in heaven. It was an urge to collect all pieces - one of the Glow Cushion BB (two designs), Dust Out 3 in 1 Trans-Foam Cleanser and both Hearthful Gel Bar Tints. A collection worth a look and a precious collectible piece for any makeup addict. Holika Holika x DODO Cat is sold on Jolse, a Korean online store with free worldwide shipping. It's limited so be quick to collect any missing pieces.

Heartful Gel Bar Tint (6,78$, shop online) act as lightweight, tinted, gel lipbalms and leave a longlasting stain afterwards. They're not the most intense treatments in lip care department but rather a good company on the go. With one swipe you're able to achieve that lit-from-within glow with a tint of colour, while swiping it several times it can bring a full on intensity. From pale pink up to cool fuchsia (#01 Pink) or from light pink up to warmer coral pink (#02 Coral). Both are scented like floral candies, somewhere between strawberry and orchid. Along with that, gel tint is shaped into a classic Holika Holika heart shape and the bullet is full of cute (kawaii) cat prints. Sturdy metal case is just perfect for handbags. 

Heartful Gel Tint Bar #01 Pink

Heartful Gel Tint Bar #02 Coral

Holika Holika DODO Cat Face2Change Glow Cushion BB (2 designs at 15,98$, shop online) has an added shiny essence in a shape of a cat paw. That means, that the cushion is exclusively glowy and perfect for normal or dry skintypes. It has a pearly effect, which looks unusually natural and unnoticeable on the sunlight. Skin looks perfected, glowy and natural. This also brings me to the next point. The lightest shade out of the two, #21 is perfect for fair ladies between NW15, NC15 and NW20. Blends beautifully with my skintone and has a fair medium coverage. One more thing I need to mention is quite a strong floral scent. If you're sensitive to strong scents, you might not be impressed with this one. Also, it can enhance large pores or imperfections, especially if have oily or combination skin. Still, it manages to cover and camouflage dry parts of the face. As all cushions, it comes in a handy compact form with perfecting pad for on-the-go application. Holika Holika's refill can be purchased and fit into the cushion compact. Love at first tap!

Holika Holika Dust Out 3 in 1 Trans-foam Cleanser (7,18$, shop online) is a multi-purpose product. Texture and final results are fantastic for combination and oily skintypes. Cleanser can be easily used in three ways: as a mask, as a cleanser or as a mild scrub. It has deep cleaning agent for thoroughly cleaning your pores and reduce sebum. Tiny particles also massage and improve skin elasticity. Texture reminds is similar to white clay and the afterwards result is squeaky clean. It truly removes any kind of dust and impurities but the cleansing effect is a bit too much for dry skintypes. Oily skin would love this and at generous 120g you can't really complain. I personally use it as a target product for pores around the nose.

Yes, yes, yes! I'm totally in love and I would repurchase the entire collection in a heartbeat. Well, maybe not the Trans-foam cleanser, that's mostly suited for oily skintypes, but definitely Glow Cushion BB and both Heartful Gel Tint Bars. I can't stop looking at the entire collection and they're definitely a valuable piece to my Korean collection. You can find everything on my favourite Korean store Jolse at pretty affordable prices.

The SAEM Cover Perfection Liquid Concealer Review

From what I've experienced, Korean concealers are in general quite creamy, thick and highly pigmented. If you were by any chance surprised by Korean BB's coverage, you can probably imagine the next step towards perfected skin. Should I dare to bet on Korean concealers instead of old and bland European interpretations? Well, not quite. While Korean concealer stash is highly pigmented and rich but there are some flaws - same as with European versions. Still, dark circles and wide areas (in need of coverage) are pretty much a good match with Korean style of concealers, especially with a newly discovered The SAEM Cover Perfection Liquid Concealer. Why? Upon brand claims, it contains olive oil for extra nourishment, pigment fitting gel for a flawless finish and it's easily mixed into foundation for higher coverage.

The SAEM Liquid Concealer (7,98$, 15ml, Jolse) comes in a handy squeeze tube with a thin applicator for precise application and sanitary reasons. This tiny little tube contains a generous amount of 15ml, which is frankly, half of the amount in standard foundations. If we put the concealer itself into the spotlight, we can easily notice highly pigmented and creamy texture. Blending it out, The SAEM concealer offers medium to buildable high pigmentation. Since it's so potent and creamy, you should be careful with application as it gets a bit cakey with heavy layers. Also, another negative side is that it can enhance large pores so avoid area around your nose. Longevity is pretty standard, nothing extraordinary yet not bad. I get an average of 5-6 hours of wear.

If I take into consideration the all in all colour selection from The SAEM Liquid Concealer range, there are only 2 shades in total which can complicate things a little bit. The lightest shade, #1 Clear Beige is a perfect choice for light (but too dark for fair) skintones while #2 should take care of medium skintones. For me, this shade is a tad too dark (think Bourjois Healthy Mix Concealer 51) but still works on my lighter/blueish under eye area. Colour is quite yellowish, which makes it suitable for covering blue dark circles or making a better match with yellow skintones. Olive oil also provides extra moisture to delicate eye area. Under eye area truly looks more moisturised than without it. Also, I need to point out, that this concealer doesn't move or feel greasy in any way. I'm predicting it has only the tiniest amount of oil in the mixture. Due to still creamy but thick consistency, it's easily mixed with foundations for extra coverage as The SAEM suggests. Skin looks flawless but not heavily covered if we use thin layers. 

The SAEM Cover Perfection Liquid Concealer is worth the look at only 7,98$ a piece. It has medium coverage and it's perfect for covering larger areas or dark circles due to nourishing oil and gel technology. Personally, I love to use it around my chin if mixed with lighter foundation or around eye area as it blends out seamlessly. The SAEM brand definitely grows on me - Lip Oil and Eco Soul Matte lipstick are a total blast. This brand is easily found online, usually with free worldwide shipping. Jolse has pretty much the biggest selection of The SAEM makeup line here.

Why You should Try Lip Oil Tints

I've been eyeing lip oils ever since I've first heard about them from Clarins and YSL. Painfully priced Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil (I've mentioned it here) didn't really deliver what I was expecting from so-called lip oils. I've imagined them to be super comfortable, light and way more nourishing than a regular lip balm. While Clarins is comfortable, it's heavy (almost sticky) texture doesn't appeal to me as much as I would like. It's pleasant but bordering between a lipgloss and a lip oil. YSL Tint In Oil sound promising but the price point might just kill your new oil enthusiasm. After hearing all praises about amazing Clarins & YSL concept, I secretly thought to myself: ''Now, if there's already a European version of lip oil, there must be already tons of lip oils on Korean market by now.'' There's no coincidence I was right as Korea is after all, the leading beauty market for innovative new products. The Saem Eco Soul Tint In Oil appealed to me the most with cute packaging (think Dior Fluid Stick), 5 vegetable seed oils for true nourishment, 6 unique shades and eco friendly concept. 

The Saem Eco Soul Tint In Oil (4g at 9,98$, Jolse, FREE worldwide shipping) comes in a heavy and sturdy packaging with simple but beautiful design. With constant use I don't have any problems with spilling and it's still safely rolling in my handbag. As I've mentioned, there are 6 shades to choose from (check all shades here) - my absolute first pick was PP01 Wild Berry. On the pictures, it looks like a warm toned straight up medium purple that absolutely captivated me. Surprisingly in person, it's a much more toned down pink purple almost bordering on a fuchsia hot pink but having a tendency to look purple under certain angle. It doesn't have any shimmer or glitter particles. What I love the most is semi translucency and lightweight formula. This is not a bold lip product in any way, rather just an even lip tint with a benefit of super nourishing oil film. Formula is clearly a match made in heaven and lip glosses are truly a blast from the past. If you love regular lip tints, you will absolutely adore this. It applies as a nourishing true-in-texture oil with a tint. Lips look super juicy and soft while oil starts to slowly disappear with hours. After 3 hours or so you're left with the most even stain. Stain itself prolongs wear for additional few hours. I didn't have any issues with transfering over my lip line which was my main concern with lip oils.

This has been my go-to lip product for work days. It's nourishing, comfortable, fuss-free and easy to apply with a heart shaped applicator. I truly can't seem to find an obvious flaw other than lips might feel slightly uncomfortable/irritated at the end of the day (if you don't constantly re-apply oily film). Stain is a beautiful cooler pink-purple while oil smells like grape gummy bears. I utterly enjoy this unique concept and if you're planning to save a bit of money, The Saem Eco Soul Tint In Oil is a perfect example for a truly wonderful lip oil. You can buy Korean makeup bits online on Jolse.com where they also ship for free worldwide. Jolse is also on Ebay if you're feeling more secure buying items there.

Unbox Korean Goodies with Me: Memebox Special #52 WTF

Memebox, the most popular Korean subscription box. If you're a newbie to Korean cosmetics, it's the easiest way to discover Korean products. Memebox offers in general boxes with mystery content, pre-made cosmetics boxes, products in collaboration with Youtubers and online shop for individual products from well known brands (Tonymoly, Etude House and more). Current boxes are always listed here. Memebox usually retails 25-49$ and contains a good value of products. Today we'll be unboxing Special #52 WTF: Wonderful Treasure Finds which contains uncovered and unusual products from Korea. Frankly enough, I was again, surprised by imagination of Korean developers. 

Skindeco Comedo AC Power Serum (50g, 36$)

Skindeco Serum is a ginger and garlic based serum which softens rough skin and prevents clogged pores. Ginger and garlic are known for anticancer properties that's why they've decided to incorporate these ingredients into skincare. Without any further questions, garlic and ginger give off quite an unpleasant scent to this product. Scent is herbal bitter but nothing majorly shocking. It has a thin watery consistency that sinks into to the skin in minutes. Honestly, I wasn't using it regularly so I can't claim about any major benefits. But an extra skincare step can never hurt.

Tonymoly Mr.Smile Patch (10g, 2$)

Hydrogel patch is filled with blueberry, black bean, black sesame and mulberry extracts. If you haven't heard about smile patches, they are meant to smooth and firm skin around your smile lines. It's similar to eye patches but targeting smile lines. Concept is totally unfamiliar to Europe but it's pretty known in Asia. Intense ingredients work as a hydrating sheet mask in less than 30 minutes. Skin is left nourished and plumper. Can we please appreciate the cute design? I could totally wear this out for a laugh or two. 

Elinette BMS Cure Cream (50ml, 65$)

This full size cream will last me decades as it's highly potent with beneficial ingredients. BMS stands for a special technology for boosting up antioxidants and minerals to renovate your skin. It's free of alcohol and parabens. Cream is indeed, highly effective with continuous use while it smells like a herbal pot of goodness. It's great for daily use as the antioxidants protect from pollution and prevents premature ageing. Texture itself is creamy and a joy to use on any kind of skin type.

Mumur Air Waterdrop Cooling Hand Cream (50g, 9$)

Lightweight and cooling is the way to describe this unique hand cream. I haven't experience anything like it before. In the tube, product looks like a regular hand cream. But after you slowly spread it out you'll be experiencing snow flake effect. It means, the base product has a velvety-matte texture and the other part consists of water. When you rub the cream, you're left with drop of water on your hand, similar to genuine snow flakes. It's cooling, non-sticky and perfects the skin on your hands. Has a clean scent and it's not greasy.  Hand cream doesn't contain parabens, ethanol or any other artificial colouring and fragrance.

Dearberry Play Choux (30ml, 13$) 

Play Choux is a pink-based multipurpose highlighter which can be used as a base, on high points of your face or mixing medium for glowy foundation. Has a distinct pink undertone which will brighten and even your skin. It's fairly lightweight and creamy while highly pigmented with a duo chrome shift. Personally, texture is not my favourite but I like to mix it with daily creams. It's an okay cream highlighter with fruity scent but nothing extraordinary.

Bath Charm Store Dead Salt Pearl Natural Soap (100g, 6$)

100% natural soap with sea salt, pearl powder, shea butter, hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, lavender oil and rose fragrance. Well that's a mouthful. Considering ingredients, this soap is super gentle and suitable for all kinds of usage. It can be easily used on your face for treating sensitive and dull skin while it opens up pores at the same time. It's not drying and has a pleasant, subtle rose scent. I mainly like to use it on my natural hair brushes for effective cleaning and fluffy outcome.

Yadah Capsule Tok Soothing Gel (200ml, 11$)

Remember me talking about Etude House Toc Gel? Well, Yadah has released even more affordable version than Etude House. You get a massive tube of aloe water, green tea and cactus flower extracts for cooling and treating irritated skin. Witch hazel and lotus also treat clogged pores. Gel is filled with small little toks which are filled with aloe vera and vitamins. Gel is perfect for warmer weather as it sooths burns and extra sensitive skin. I also love to use it as lightweight base before foundation. This product is multipurpose - you can use it anywhere and anyhow. Memebox also suggests it to use as a body scrub along with spoonful of sugar.

Did they caught your attention? I'm surely amazed by Korean imagination when creating these products. 

Memebox is a fun way to play and discover new Korean products, brands and textures.

Innisfree Creamy Lip Tint Mousse

Innisfree Creammellow Lipstick (review here) left a heck of an impression. While I got intrigued browsing around after newly discovered Korean brand, I was instantly drawn to Creamy Tint Lip Mousse. I imagined it to be a perfect trendy liquid matte lipstick for Summer but I've should have taken it's name a bit more seriously. Innisfree Creamy Tint Lip Mousse is indeed a mousse type of product with semi-matte finish and ''lemon vanilla dessert'' scent. Mousse leaves a bright stain as proclaimed and doesn't dry out the lips. Rich color stays put for hours while feels comfortable as a velvety lip cushion. Texture is somewhat slippery and a bit concerning with first application but after a few trys you'll probably realise it's one of the safest products to use. Although it's light as a feather, it somehow manages to stay put. It doesn't creases, smudges or moves. I won't lie, the 7 colors in the Creamy Tint Lip Mousse range are a bit intimidating with neon bright, white-based shades. But trying to be brave and all, I've decided for a bright warm pink named #4 Spring Romance Peach. It's nothing similar to my existing lip selection and it's indeed a perfect ''in your face'' shade for upcoming Summer. However, it's in similar category as Mac Impassioned or Catrice Kiss Kiss Hibiscus. Mentioned longevity is around 6 hours with leftover bright pink stain.

Innisfree Creamy Tint Lip Mousse is feathery lightweight, intensely pigmented, intimidatingly bright with a flattering velvet like finish. All 7 shades are extra bright with a kick of white pigments so if you're opting for a natural look, this shouldn't be your first choice. Generally, I like the product but I miss standard matte finish with these kind of shades. Speaking of matte, I've tried the blotting technique with a separated tissue and the lip product became matte. Taking away it's bonus moisture, you'll be left with a standard, high pigmented matte look. Personally, I can't be bothered with extra blotting for matte lips. Creamy Tint Lip Mousse wouldn't be my first choice from Innisfree but if you enjoy lightweight textures, neon lip colors and mousse consistency, this is totally up your alley. They retail for 11,98$ for 4,8ml on Jolse.com, where you can also find other gimmicky Korean products.