Jane Tries: Innisfree No-Sebum Blur Powder (with Coverage)

Today, I thought I would give you my first impressions on the Innisfree No-Sebum Blur Powder I bought now that I am currently in South Korea. I've heard great things about this and when I went to the Innisfree store near my house, I was deciding between this one and the one that is white and in the green package. The lovely sales associate told me that this gives better coverage whilst the one that is white is just transparent and only helps with the shine. With that in mind, I decided to get this and give it a go.

Recently, I've been using the Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent and whilst in the past has been a great drugstore find, I find, as I age, the powder does not give me the flawless finish I had prior.

This loose powder has been pretty good in terms of giving me the coverage I desire. I have a lot of spots and hyper-pigmentation these days and it's been such a bother to cover it all. Whilst this does not completely cover it all, I do like how my pores look and how much less concealer I need to use.

When you first open the package, there is a faint scent of mint which is really quite nice. The puff is also nice and soft. The one thing, however, I find a bit of a bother is the fact that it is really hard to get the powder out of the holes. I ended up just removing the plastic and just using either my damp Beauty Blender and then blend it in with my powder brush.

These "fast fashion" makeup stores, viz. Face Shop, Innis Free, Etude House, etc., are geared for the younger set, but if you are discerning, there are things that are useful for those in the mid 30s and older. The Innisfree No-Sebum Blur Powder is one of that and at USD $8, it really is a good purchase thus far. Will be sure to update after I finish the powder.

If anyone has used this product, or the one without coverage in the green packaging, I would love to hear about your experiences.

xo Jane

Life in LA: Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is a tourist trap. Loads of people go there who clearly are not from the area. But, it's a tourist trap for a reason.

For me, there are a few things I love about the Pier.

1) The view

Call it what you will, but the view on the Pier is absolutely lovely. Whether it is cloudy, or windy, or sunny, being right above the ocean gives me a sense of peace I find exhilarating. Yes, there are a lot of people, more so in the summer, but I love to people watch there. Today, for example, there was an artist who was filming his music video there. I really admire his ability to not give any care and just perform for the camera. I love watching the kids scream in the carnival rides on the pier and I love the artists who perform on the pier for people to listen. The music, the dancing, et al, really add to the energy that surrounds the pier.






2) The shopping

Third Street Promenade is close by and I really like how there are so many shops that are close to the ocean. I particularly enjoy looking at the window displays of brands like Louis Vuitton with their constantly changing artwork. I also love how they have stand-alone stores like Aesop but they also have stores like Uniqlo and H&M.












3)  Pokemon Go

If you play this seriously addictive AR (alternative reality) game, *this* is the place to go. With constant lure, you will catch loads of water Pokemon which is really nice. I love to take a quick loop and see what Pokemon I catch.

By car, there are public parking lots. The closer to get to the pier, the harder it is to find parking and also, more expensive. There is also a lot of traffic. I like to park a bit further out and then just walk. I justify it as exercise.









Eats
When you're actually *on* the pier, I love eating a Japadog.  Made famous by Psych, the Japanese-inspired hot dog is your best bet when you are on the pier. There is a Coffee Bean on the pier if you're looking for some coffee. There are other sit-down restaurants, like Bubba Gump Shrimp, but I really like Japadog because you can get the hot dog and then eat it whilst people watching. Japadog is a bit expensive (I paid USD $7.75 for one) but I still think it's the best bet for the pier.

Not the best looking but so so good!

If you are on the Promenade, there are loads of restaurants you can try. Many of them, however, are not my cup of tea, as there are a lot of chain restaurants, but you won't be without.









If you do end up going to the Pier, I would love to hear about your experience. And, if you have any recommendations for me, do let me know in the comments and I will try and give it a go.

xo Jane

Beauty Review: Shiseido Eye Masks

I will admit I am not the biggest fan of eye masks. I always think they are not worth the money. If I am to buy these masks, I always feel I'd be better off just using an eye cream instead.

These eye masks came in a set from Sephora. Yes, this is from my huge Sephora purchase spree. I used these right before I went to bed and the next day, I really loved how the fine lines around my eyes were diminished.

No eye cream, eye mask, etc, will ever entirely rid the lines around your eyes. And I have learned to accept that my skin isn't as elastic as it once was.

That said, these eye masks do lessen the effects of fine lines and feel absolutely lovely when put on.  Whilst this does have retinol, unlike other products, this does not break me out nor does it sting my eyes and face. I think the gentleness of the mask and the ability to really create a certain level of suppleness around my eyes, is why I think this is a good product to use, if you're so inclined.

If, however, you are not in the mood to splurge, a good eye cream is a better route; at least, for me. I would rather spend my money on an eye cream than an eye mask. But, if someone gave this to me as a gift, I wouldn't be sad about it. =)

xo Jane

Life in LA: Uber Drivers

I tend to use taxi drivers to get to the airport. Recently, I find myself using Uber in lieu of taxis, as it is easier to hail a Uber in LA rather than a taxi, unless you're at the airport. I use UberX, not Uber Pool, as I prefer to ride straight to the airport rather than wait for them to pick a few people en route.

Is it just me or are the Uber drivers a bit ... off? All I want to do is get to the airport. I don't want a lecture on how "Americans are selfish and American sports suck," (I mentioned I liked baseball) and/or "the environment is caused by greedy corporations and/or how people shouldn't need other people.  I don't mind small talk and I don't mind a discussion but a discussion should be two-sided, not shouting down at me. All I can do is sit in silence and pray I get to the airport as soon as possible.  Please tell me I'm not the only one who experienced this. The fellow at the airport counter did mention he also had a few odd Uber drivers, as well, which gave me some comfort.

And, no, I'm not going to text you my number because I don't know you and. honestly, you scare me. 

xo Jane.

These are a Few of My Favourite Things: November Favourites

November has come and gone and here are my favourite things for the month.
1) Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil

November is significant for a number of reasons but a primary one is the Sephora VIB sale, of which I partook. A lot. A dear friend and I always exchange our lists which is both a blessing and a curse. I found myself buying a few things that was not on my radar. Oops.

As I've mentioned before, I've been mourning the demise of my skin. It's really lost its glow and no amount of water, vitamins, steaming has helped.  One of things that was on my radar was the Drunk Elephant AHA kit, which contains the B-Hydra Intensive Gel, C-Firma Day Serum, and the TLC Framboos Glycolic Night Serum. But the scene stealer has been their Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil. As one reviewer noted on the Sephora website,

"I need look no further for the most effective anti aging antioxidant multi purpose oil. It hydrates, brightens and healed my dry sensitive skin. At 56, I am always trying new products that promise to even my skin without irritation.
This product delivers!"

SOLD. And it really *has* made a difference on my skin. It feels much plumper and the inner dryness seems less. I wear it only at night and use the C-Firma Day Serum during the day, but if you can afford the splurge, this really has changed the way my skin feels.

2) hakuho-do + Sephora Pro Large Teardrop Pointed Powder Brush and Fan Cheek Brush

Pointed Powder Brush

Fan Cheek Brush

 When the brush first came out, I didn't initially justify the cost to get the brushes, but when I saw it on sale, plus the 20% off from the VIB sale, I decided to give it a go. When I first got the powder brush, I had intended to use it for my highlighter, but the brush was too soft for it to properly work the way I had originally intended. Instead, I find it is really nice to blend my setting powder and the brush feels so soft as it sweeps across my face and blends the powder to my foundation.

The fan cheek brush, I find, is wonderful if you are using it to create more defined blush area and also for highlighting. If you want to highlight a certain area of your face, this is a good brush to try.

3) Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder

When my friend recommended this powder to set my foundation, I was hesitant. I wasn't sure if it would really make a difference. And, I can say it really *does* brighten your skin without caking it on. I like to use it with my Beauty Blender and pat it on the areas that need the brightening, viz. the triangle in the front of my face. Then, I like to use the powder brush as mentioned, supra, to sweep and blend the powder. It gives my a lasting glow that I like for a large portion of the day.




4) AVK Aloe Vera Foot Cream

A very popular product in Korea, I love this on my feet. The product does what it claims, primarily, soften the feet. I have very dry feet and this product has really reduced that dryness. I don't have necessarily calloused feet, but someone I know how does has claimed it also reduces the callouses tremendously. This is clearly one that I absolutely adore.






5)  Tangle Teezer x Hello Kitty

My hair has grown so much and it oftentimes get tangled. My friend recommended this brand and after seeing the Hello Kitty compact style, I had to get it. This brush gets it. I love how it untangles my hair as stated by the name of the product and I love how I can use it on both wet and dry hair. This product is also great in that it's the compact style and is easy to travel as well as put in your purse.

The only downside to this product is that if you use dry shampoo, which I do, the powder used for the dry shampoo will cling onto the bristles. You will have to clean it out periodically but there are YouTube videos that show you how to do it.

6) The Cold Weather

Persimmons are such a fall fruit

I love the cold weather.  I love how I can wear sweaters and boots and layer as much as my little heart contents. I really miss the cold weather back East. It has finally got cold enough for me to wear cardigans and boots and trench coats and I am enjoying every minute of it. If only it was this way forever....








Would love to know your November favourites,

xo Jane

Life in LA: Santouka Ramen (Various Locations)

Today, I thought I'd expand a bit and talk about my life here in Los Angeles. I moved here from Washington, DC less than a year ago and the adjustment, to be frank, has not been easy.  Moving when you're older always is significantly difficult than when you are younger, and when you move without any social safety nets, the barriers can be daunting. That is not to say it has all been so tough. Los Angeles is a vibrant city and a city where, if your personality matches its vibes, is a great one.

I am of the belief what works for one in a city does not work for another, so please take my experiences with a grain of salt. Yes, the adjustment not been smooth for me, but that doesn't mean the same applies for you.

A highlight of Los Angeles is the wide array of food that you can explore and find throughout the city. It's absolutely lovely. One of my favourite places to go is Santouka Ramen.  Whilst it's so nice to go to restaurants, sometimes, especially when you are here alone, it's tough to find someone to go with, and, yes, I've gone to restaurants alone before, but it's not something I prefer to do each and every night. Santouka Ramen is nestled in the Mitsuwa Supermarket and in their food court. If you are looking for a quick bite to eat, this is the place for you.  I love how they are Hokkaido style ramen, with their thin and chewy noodles. There are a variety of soup bases you can choose from, from shio (salt) to shoyu (soy sauce) to spicy miso (which is the one I normally get.) You also can get a variety of sizes. I prefer the small and I also get a soy sauce infused egg on the side. It's not only absolutely delicious but just enough for me to finish without feeling stuffed. If you're extra hungry, do get the larger sizes; in fact, most people there do get the medium or the large.

Sadly, Santouka does not do take-away nor do they take credit card. It's cash only and no bills above USD $20. But if you're in the LA area and you don't want to sit alone in the ramen shop, give this a go. And after you are satiated with such a delectable meal, go to the supermarket section of Mitsuwa and load up on all the Japanese treats that you can. I generally get a nice chunk of maguro and red snapper as well as all the Japanese candies and potato chips my heart desires.

xo Jane

Empties: IOPE Skin Renewal Night Treatment Cream

My nightly routine is such that I wear some kind of night sleeping mask when I got to sleep. Sometimes, I actually wear a gel sheet mask to sleep when my skin is especially in need.

After moving to LA, much like many aspects of my life,  my skin has had a rough time adjusting to the sun, the heat, the water. It misses the drop of the temperature during the wonderful fall and spring seasons and even the humidity of the summer of the East Coast.

This cream could be used as a lotion, but I like to use it as a night mask. The consistency is thick and it feels like greek yoghurt. The scent, however, unlike greek yoghurt, is heavenly.

On its own, I don't think it really did much to my skin, but it did feel nice putting it on and I loved putting it on before I went running.

Recently, my skin feels very dull and dry; it's missing that inner glow I had when I was back East. This night cream isn't something I would buy again, but if you're looking for a light night cream which does hydrate, just not intensively, this might the cream for you.

The search for that inner glow continues. 

xo Jane

Coffee Talk: Maturing

As I've said before, I'm no longer in my 20s. My skin, much like my age, has been through a lot. It no longer carries the youthful glow, as much as I try. I can cover my flaws with makeup and create that youthful glow with liquid highlighters, but at the end of the day, I wipe off all those masks and my real face, my real skin, spots and all, come to the forefront.

I often have looked at my skin with such consternation at the flaws that keep popping up, regardless of the care I take of it. The struggle is real.

Each potion I use, each lotion that assures me that this is the miracle cure, only confirms to me how much I am fighting so many things to hold onto an idea that, if we are truly honest, is exactly that, an idea. When I was younger, I was struggling with other issues: loads and loads of spots, oily skin, etc, and yet here I am wistfully wishing to go back to that time.

Each wrinkle I have, each white hair, all the sagging of my skin, only emphasises how much life I've experienced. Whilst the rote comment about beauty as we age may be a panacea to some, for me, the gifts of age only underscores a certain level of frustration as our youthful dreams become replaced with a quiet acceptance of the futility of life. Like the elixir of youth that so many, including myself, wish was a reality, I know I look for that same elixir on other parts of my life.

Even as I struggle with time and the slowing of our bodies, I still try and fight. It's not easy; some days are easier than others. And, when you see others who have clearer, more firmer skin, it can be tough, but I also know it's a dangerous path to go down when you wallow in that misery.

If only there was a potion that allows some people, like myself, to be content with what we have and not wont for more.

Jane
 

October Favourites

The past few days have been a bit crazy, with the election and all. Whether you are celebrating or crying in your beer, here are a few things that might pick you up:

fresh Black Tea Eye Cream: I love fresh. I love their products and love how they smell. I have been using this and I like how it isn't sticky, like the Shiseido, but it does moisturise.

IOPE Anti-Wrinkle Intensive Cream: This is my second one and I really like to use it at night. It's heavy, so for those with dry skin, this might be a good fit for the day, but because I have combination skin, I love using it at night to keep my skin feeling soft the next day. As the nights are getting cooler, and the weather drier, this is a really nice addition to your skincare routine.

Jurlique Rose Hand Cream: If your hands are constantly feeling dry, this is such a good hand cream to moisturise those chapped hands. I love the smell of roses, but if this is too "old lady" for you, there are other scents that are just as moisturising and just as divine in scent.

Trader Joe's Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese: I know this isn't beauty, but I love this. I love how it tastes on bread and apples and basically anything. If this makes me basic, I'm okay with that; I love this that much.

xo Jane

Coffee Talk: How do you cleanse?

How you cleanse your skin has become a hot topic. Do you double cleanse? Single cleanse? Once a day? Twice a day?

For me, my cleansing skincare hasn't changed much. The type of products, I use, however, has changed.

During the daytime, I do not double cleanse. What is double cleansing? Generally, it's the idea that you use an oil-based cleanser or balms to wipe away any excess before you go and use another, water-based cleanser. What I do, however, is use a gentle cleanser to wash away the excess grime from last night and also the sleeping mask. At this moment, I am using the Andalou Rose Foaming Mask and I absolutely adore it. It smells divine and is so gentle. I got it at Whole Foods, but I believe you can find it elsewhere.

At night, however, I double cleanse, especially when I am wearing makeup.  The removal of makeup is such a chore, isn't it? I hate it so. Regardless, I *must* take off my makeup or my skin will suffer the next day. I have been using a cleansing balm (I am currently use Clinique, but Skinfood has a really great one and everyone knows about Banila Co.) and then wiping off my excess with Bioderma, If Bioderma is too pricey, Garnier also has a micellar water that is the fraction of the price and is at Target. I find the gentle nature of the water really helps take away the grime without taking away too much of the moisture. After the makeup is gone, I then wash my face with face wash.

After washing my face, I always tone with a non-alcoholic toner. I find my skin has trouble sloughing off dead skin and so, I must always tone. I use Biotherm, not to be confused with Bioderma, and also the Thayer's Rose Witch Hazel. I love the Thayer's especially because of the scent. They have a variety of scents: Rose, Lavendar, and Lemon. I love them all.

I hope this helps you determine the best method to cleanse. If your skin is dry, perhaps double cleansing may not be for you. But regardless, would love to hear your thoughts, as always.

xo Jane

Sleeping Masks: Are they even necessary?

Sleeping masks are a thing. Also known as a night mask, they are masks you use after your moisturising and keep on whilst you sleep. Night time, for me, is repair time. I love them and use a rotation of a few masks each and every night. They soften your skin and you wake up with such a suppleness, which when combined with the ampules, your skin feels and looks younger.

Skincare is a day-to-day struggle. Yesterday, I was feeling so lazy and didn't bother to do my routine and today, it shows. My skin is dull, it's spotty and I look rough.

When I was even a few years younger, my skin didn't need such care; it seems it need more care with each passing minute. If this is your case, do look into sleeping masks. They truly help heal your skin and fight again the drying and the lack of elasticity that time seems to bring upon.

xo Jane

p.s. Realise I never did a Sunday coffee talk; one will be up this Sunday! xx

What Exactly Are Ampules?

L to R: Marogan, Iope, Sulhwasoo

If there is anything that truly helps your skin, I truly believe it's ampules. What are ampules, exactly? Ampules run the spectrum. Some are like essences, viz. they are water-based, and some are literally oils. I recommend both. For me, I love to wear the oil-based ampules at night and allows all that goodness soak into my skin. In the morning, my skin feels so soft and supple. Depending on the season, I adjust the oil I use; summer, lighter oils like the Iope you see above, or the Clarins, and winter/fall, my absolute favourite is argan oil. With regard to the the water- based essences, I recommend using it during the daytime, much like an essence.

For me, I find as I age, ampules are my saving grace.  Before I used these wonderful finds, my skin was dull. Now, my skin has a softness I find disappear the minute I stop using them.  As my skin ages, I find the suppleness of my skin is truly like fighting a war against time. Ampules are the first line of defense as the skin diminishes its elasticity.

Do let me know how you get on with them. Would love to hear your thoughts.

xo Jane

Coffee Talk: Makeup, wrinkles and all

As I age, my makeup skills have improved, which is an absolute blessing. But, my face isn't what it used to be. The glow of youth is a thing of the past. I look at pictures of when I was young and sigh at that glow. I wish it was still there. 

Luckily, makeup can help. I absolutely adore makeup. It covers up our flaws, evens out my (still) spotty skin and creates an illusion of that youthful glow I desire. 

One thing I notice, however, is that what worked for me when I was young, does not work for me now. Less is definitely more. I may cover my flaws more, but I cannot pile on the electric blue eyeshadow of yesteryear. *Sigh*

So what do I do? One thing I definitely have added to my repertoire has been concealer. I like to use a shade lighter around my eyes to really give my face that "awaken" look. Another thing I use is highlighter, sometimes liquid, sometimes not, but adding in that youthful glow is always nice.

Lastly, I use try to basically create a clean face, without it being a clean face. So the "natural" look.  I like to use a light amount of shimmer in my eyeshadow, but they are all neutrals; rose golds and browns and yellows. I don't use a lot of colour like I was wont to do when I was younger. That doesn't mean, however, to never use colour, just that in my day-to-day, I have become more measured in my application. I love it when mature women use vibrant colours, but I find it doesn't work for me anymore.

As for lips, I have been really enjoying the "gradient" look that is very popular in Korea. I like how it gives me lips the colour without it being too overpowering. I find this look works best on lips that are on the fuller side, but I don't think it looks bad on anyone.

Gradient Lips

I absolutely admire the skills of the makeup artists who can transform anyone into a masterpiece, but since I am only working on myself, these are the things I've learned along the way.

xo Jane.

What's the Deal with the Mask Trend?

From L to R: Tony Moly "Timeless EGF," Tony Moly "Intense Care Snail Hyrdo-Gel Mask," L'Affair Animal Sheet Masks (Sheep and Panda), Etude House White Pearl, SK-II

When I first saw face masks when I was visiting my parents, I was confused. What is this madness? When I put on first mask, my initial reaction was, I LOOK LIKE JASON. 

It's not far off from the truth....

 After peeling off the facial mask, however, my skin felt amasing. Soft, and supple. I was hooked.  I love using it almost every single day and my skincare regimen has changed as I mature. 

Not all masks are the same, and everyone has a different way that works best for their skin. Here is how I use these masks:

Method 1: Masks such as these, I use after a run. These masks are essentially essences in liquid form and are soaked in a cotton mask. Since I am breaking a sweat, my skin, and pores, is ready to soak in all that essence. Some people like to wear these and then use their regular skincare. I, however, find when I did that, I broke out. I like to wear it as long as possible and then take a shower and wash my face. That way, I maximise the amount of essence that goes into my skin but it won't break me out. I am actually wearing a mask whilst writing this blog.

Method 2: These types of masks have a gel-like feel to them. I like to wear these to sleep. I actually got this advice from one of the lovely girls who worked in these beauty stores. She recommended that I sleep with the mask on and see the difference. She was spot on. My face, the next day, is absolutely lovely. 

The other times I use a mask is when I am on a long flight. My skin is *so* sensitive and it looks a hot mess when I get off a long flight. Generally, a long flight is 7 plus hours for me. Your definition can vary, of course. Once the light turns off, I generally put on a mask and watch movies until I fall asleep. When I arrive to my destination, my skin looks rested and moisturised. If you have no shame, as I do, this is such a great way to use the face mask. My mom has pointedly told me that I am *not* related to her whilst on the plane. I still have no shame. 

Mask technology has really improved from the time they were introduced in the market. They really do make a difference to you skin, albeit temporarily. You skin feels so amasing and supple; do give it a go and let me know how you get on with them.

xo Jane

Coffee Talk

The ongoing joke among my friends is that I am a vampire. I've been very lucky to still be carded at my age. It always feels nice to think you are still in your 20s.

One thing I highly recommend as one ages is eye cream. Yes, eye cream. Real talk: I always thought eye cream was irrelevant. But, I've come to realise it was because I was doing it wrong. I take a little bit, rub it around my eyes where there are "fine lines" (sigh) and tap tap tap whilst watching a little TV. The longer the better. Sometimes, I also add the eye cream to my forehead. I've noticed a change. Not at first, but a change after a few weeks. 

One thing I also recommend is finding eye cream that not only works, but also, with pretty packaging. That lovely gold container contains my eye cream. It's a Korean brand, called the History of Who. Highly recommend. The smell is so nice and the packaging makes me want to wear the eye cream. And once the container is empty, I like to decant other lotions and have it around my vanity as a pretty little piece.

With age comes wisdom, so the saying goes. Perhaps, we can also impart some tips where we can look like we're 20, if we choose to do so, but at the same time, be the wise and smart mature folk that we are. 

xo Jane