When it’s freezing outside and your skin is suffering, there’s nothing better than indulging in some “me-time” pampering. From softening scrubs and moisturizing masks to comforting perfumes, I’ve been having a lot of fun testing out some new products.
Masque Bar (Available at Shoppers Drug Mart: $9.99 for 3-5 masks)
What is it: A range of sheet masks and cream masks with concentrated ingredients that provide intensive treatment and effective results.
My thoughts: Korea is definitely at the forefront of beauty and skincare trends. Many of the the best products debut there – and within 2-3 years, other countries start producing their own versions of Korean-inspired products (think BB creams, snail gel and 10-step nightly skincare routines). Sheet masks (thin pieces of cotton soaked with serum) are an integral part of Korean skincare, so I was excited to learn that a Korean company named Masque Bar was launching 18 skin-beautifying masks in Canada.
Although I really wanted to try the face sheet masks – I’m at the tail end of an acne outbreak (story of my life) and didn’t want to introduce anything new in to my routine, so I opted for the lip gel patch and the foot sock masks. The lip patch was VERY generously sized (it would have covered my chin if I hadn’t trimmed it down) and my family killed themselves laughing when they saw me wearing it! It was quite slippery and took a while to settle into place. I was worried that the foot sock mask would be messy, but the lotion is contained in a thick material (like what they use to make disposable tablecloths). I could still walk around (carefully) during the 20 minute treatment. Of the two products, I didn’t notice much of an effect from the lip care patch (maybe the gel material isn’t as effective as the sheet ones) – but the foot sock mask was amazing. My feet felt soft and smooth (as if I’d had a pedicure with soaking and exfoliating!) This is 100% something I’d use weekly in the summer to keep my feet sandal-ready! After my sheet mask success, I can’t wait for my face to heal so that I can try the Pomegranate sheet mask – my skin definitely needs some brightening!
The Bodyshop Poppy Collection
What is it: Limited Edition Collection featuring vibrant colors and Smoky Poppy Seed-infused skin care products.
My thoughts: There’s a lot of bright-colored makeup products for the spring – from yellow and orange nail polishes to pink and green eye shadows. I’m wearing the Colour Crush Nail Polish in “Mad About Blue” in the photo below. The formula is very shiny and rich with a jelly-finish that I loved. The polish is very pigmented – it was completely opaque in one coat (although I applied 2 layers out of habit!).
I really enjoyed trying out the Smoky Poppy body products – especially the Smoky Poppy Body Scrub (pictured above right). The black poppy seeds are suspended in a creamy base – it glides across your skin smoothly and is easy to massage in. Other scrubs I’ve used have granules that dissolved too quickly or were too jagged and rough, but these poppy seeds provided the perfect amount of exfoliation. After rinsing off, your skin is moisturized and silky – so you can skip the body lotion step if you wish. I love how the slightly smoky floral perfume remains on my skin.
UNTOLD Absolu Eau de Parfum ($52)
What is it: Amber-based perfume infused with notes to capture the many sides of a woman, such as Jasmine for refinement and Tahitian Vanilla for mystery.
My thoughts: I love layering fragrances – my favorite combination is a sweet long-lasting base perfume mixed with a spritz of citrus for freshness. This works perfectly as my “base” fragrance – it reminds me of another of my long-time “sweet and spicy” favorites – Angel. Definitely a good pick if you’re looking for something wholesome and long-lasting without being cloying.
Have you tried any Korean skincare and beauty products? If so, which are your favorites?
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DISCLAIMER: These products were sent to me for review but all opinions are 100% my own.
Linking up with More Pieces of Me and On the Daily Express.
I love the Masque Bar, they work great. Was a bit weird trying the lip one lol, have to make sure it's a time when no one is going to try and talk to you. 🙂
They were definitely fun to try – I'm trying the hand one next…but I think it's a pass for me on the lip one LOL!
Foot sock mask sounds like something Id like to try , never hear of that before , thanks for the review on that .
So glad you liked the review!