tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9868554266420373252024-03-07T10:33:26.261+01:00Barbara & 1923. Beauty & Life Nigerian Beauty blog with a sprinkling of Natural Hair, Lifestyle, Branding and Inspiration.
Loads of vintage love, professional makeup artistry, photography and information about the Nigerian beauty industry and Life also available.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger907125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-39818627775078463342024-01-09T00:50:00.004+01:002024-01-09T00:52:22.024+01:00My Skincare Journey in 2023. The 7 Products That Made ALL the Difference on my Acne-Prone Skin<p><img border="0" data-original-height="1498" data-original-width="1998" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfJjlwllkptLaY2T4vbI5STo4P5wIlhFxQq1k6ML4bH8G72POjSTJ-VzIbr5ke6Lbn2HupM8IfvvUPLIEjBIJh5vjS-FWUn3B7Ux4cuSaoNCbiy3WKmQIO_U4iPZllYtwcsrsoq0qI8AuqmphPgIC61W2pJY453bEfmIoFIVXAyLkTQur_hCo7hMhy2hY/s16000/skincare-products-of-2023-barbara1923.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br /><br /></p><p>2023 was the year I finally believed that scientifically formulated skincare products work. </p><p>I know what you must be thinking, but it is the truth. Before then, I never really believed as it always crossed my mind that there was an elaborate scheme to get us to spend more money on a bunch of products that never work <i>(it doesn't help that there are so many people out there who say<b> "all I rub on my skin is vaseline or shea butter"</b>) </i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p>Anyway, that school of thought remains, but it is now greatly revised as I've discovered that these products work, BUT, there is no need to get ALL the ones that TikTok or Instagram says you should.</p><p><br /></p><p>Well, thankfully, my aesthetician and I think alike so she recommended the first set of products for me <i>(which I didn't really use diligently I must admit)</i>. I finally got around to being disciplined with my skincare around May/June of 2023 and within 3 months of being consistent, I didn't see results<b> instead, people started commenting on my skin and saying how vastly improved it was. </b>I even recall having to share products from my routine and reach out to my skincare vendor on behalf of others as well. </p><p><br /></p><p>While I tweaked the routine my aesthetician recommended and switched up some of the products, here are the top 7 that have made it into my Holy Grail skincare list of products I will repurchase forever and ever:</p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b><a href="https://bit.ly/3vqcycq">CorsRX Salicylic Acid Daily Cleanser</a>: </b><u>this is by far the most cost-effective face cleanser I have ever used.</u> <i>(if you follow me on Instagram, then you have definitely heard me talking about this product). </i>This creamy but thorough cleanser totally washes off all dirt and impurities while still leaving the skin moisturised and not stripped at all. My face always looks 'alive' when I'm done washing it in the mornings. I've repurchased this 3 times but each time, I have to use and over-use it beforefor it to eventually finish, <i>lol.</i></li><li><b><a href="https://bit.ly/3tUvlfr">SkinScience Gly/Sal 5-2 Cleanser</a>: </b>maybe I didn't read enough reviews but I felt like I had been deceived the very first time I used this cleanser. Wondering why I'm sure right? <b>I felt deceived because this Cleanser doesn't lather, at all.</b> I had heard so much about it but this little bit of information was omitted in all the reviews I had read about the SkinScience Gly/Sal cleanser. I almost thought it was fake but there was no faking the gently squeaky clean feel of my skin when I rinsed it off. That was when I relented and I have re-purchased it 3 times after that. </li><li><b>So me By Mi 30 Days Miracle Toner, </b>but after using it, loving it and then not finding it again in the market, I switched to <b><a href="https://bit.ly/41OWH3c">Creightons Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Tonic</a>: </b>and I don't regret not going back to my Tea Tree toner any single day. The Creightons Salicylic toner is honestly really nice. It can be a little stingy when you just start using it but the skin adjusts to it after a while. It delivers a bit more dose of salicylic acid to my skin <i>(which I do believe my skin is benefitting from, so I'm not complaining at all)</i>. That is aside from the fact that it is way more affordable of course 😊</li><li><b><a href="https://bit.ly/3TRZua3">Paula's Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant</a>:</b> this product does all it says it will do and more. Initially, I wondered what all the fuss about this product was, but now, I am a believer. Of the many benefits of this product, one thing it does that I absolutely love it how it dries out acne overnight. I only need to have one acne on my face, I apply Paula's Choice all over my face with a cotton pad and over the affected area. By morning, it is gone. This is aside from the fact that it has also helped to improve the texture of my skin. I honestly can't do without this product in my collection.</li><li><b><a href="https://bit.ly/48nVwdr">CosRX Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence</a>: </b>I can now understand why all the hullabaloo about it. While I would gladly re-purchase, I feel that when paired with a Hyaluronic acid serum, its actual skincare benefits come through.</li><li><b><a href="https://bit.ly/3HdsWQi">Uncover Aloe Invisible Sunscreen</a>:</b> I recommended this to a colleague who had been having issues with white cast and sunscreen being too oily and single time she sees me now, she mentions it and tells me what a nice thing I did for her. I also the Uncover Aloe Sunscreen too because of its somewhat matte finish and the fact that it isn't heavy on the face either. </li><li><b><a href="https://bit.ly/3NXxBto">HaruHaru Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Cream</a>: </b>the chances of you never stopping this product after you've used it once is very especially if you have oily skin as it dries matte.</li></ol><div><br /></div><div>So these are the 7 skincare products that really made all the difference on my skin in 2023 and I'm bringing all of them with me into 2024 for sure.</div><div><br /></div><div><br />
<div class="shopthepost-widget" data-widget-id="5125773"><script type="text/javascript">!function(w,i,d,g,e,t){d.getElementById(i)||(element=d.createElement(t),element.id=i,element.src="https://widgets.rewardstyle.com"+e,d.body.appendChild(element)),w.hasOwnProperty(g)===!0&&"complete"===d.readyState&&w[g].init()}(window,"shopthepost-script",document,"__stp","/js/shopthepost.js","script")</script><div class="rs-adblock"><img src="https://assets.rewardstyle.com/production/006db278dbf8b6e557f67a5dc51cf6a143db4790/images/search/350.gif" onerror='this.parentNode.innerHTML="Disable your ad blocking software to view this content."' style="width: 15px; height: 15px"><noscript>JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.</noscript></div></div></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-61192278408036678972024-01-05T08:00:00.008+01:002024-01-05T08:00:00.163+01:00New Year - 2024<p><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="2732" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDG9e0LtS2IrEQ1WDBilXZYqpaaXUy8fJhNiAyaYcopowte2fe7k-0_NtlWD7HFP4duWVmmdFn1wDdTKeaCYG8w34lTEndmflBgdfx5YrqzIf1uTr1toCyL6Ri2np52llpdmvw18nfB2PhAxZyYwK578VPUI4Cl08CPl8BYsamFau9dNBkFsRgIZkIpYA/s16000/Happy-new-year-2024_50.jpg" /></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>Happy New Year!</b></p><p><br /></p><p>It isn't every year I have a full of life, happy and joyful new persona which shines forth in a gorgeous picture like this one. But I do love the years when I'm able to capture the essence of my personality in an image like this one. </p><p><br /></p><p>It's 2024 and Nigerians are brimming with <i style="font-weight: bold;">'no gree for any one'.</i> Not sure where or why the violence, but I'm definitely not here for it so leave me behind when you guys are fighting that fight pls.</p><p><br /></p><p>Didn't make any resolutions <i>(I never make new year resolutions though)</i>, but it would be a joy to see what GOD's plan is for me as the last year of my thirties comes around and I strive to bring to life as much of the ideas in my head as I can. </p><p><br /></p><p>Are you here for the ride?</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-680762272879612972023-09-21T13:32:00.001+01:002023-09-23T16:01:22.876+01:00Self-Healing At It's Finest. Here is the 3-Step Cure For Heartbreak<p><img border="0" data-original-height="2633" data-original-width="1974" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2tLlEQWW6aYhxAw5an1keQ4SKS_wGCa-DhxkNwPdO7NVbZsk60BEriLaxScnN_5RPCdNt1higgavegBaajKQGjt_jI0-AhLOjkuV9DsIm-6HKReHcrRTBFjedEO2zJyz-bAhFnGOzHJvkNYp7RN0wUM2NiR6ZJ6qQWOlfeyyF63R8Ig1JjNSx24_sAIY/s16000/IMG_20230921_122949048_processed.jpg" /></p><p><br /></p><p>Remember when I first talked about having a heartbreak <a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2022/01/steps-to-self-healing.html" target="_blank">here</a>? I learned a lot of valuable life lessons in that period of my life and although I'm generally a private person, I shared them in the first season of my <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/speaking-about" target="_blank">podcast</a>. You really should listen to my podcast if you haven't.</p><p><br /></p><p>I've read a couple of books on self-worth and relationships after then and it is baffling how naive and unknowledgeable I was about the whole concept of relationships. Alas, that is the essence of experience right?</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqSVeD9ECQM45MIgNRgn0WrLlrMybFzRDziRi1-Qa-nWh4ar4RZVuaEg52f9R1G0TFYm12hKNyDO2dxw-9DMDQw4GFL3O3G391bgxyAJfI21mN06DJ2XI1M2UOFai58fzagMM9LeCPuYtGdDG7OiFOYnCNIXWzZbN6VmrbG3fgP9mjR14T3IfIgx42PI/s1966/the-3-step-cure-to-heartbreak-barbara1923.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1475" data-original-width="1966" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqSVeD9ECQM45MIgNRgn0WrLlrMybFzRDziRi1-Qa-nWh4ar4RZVuaEg52f9R1G0TFYm12hKNyDO2dxw-9DMDQw4GFL3O3G391bgxyAJfI21mN06DJ2XI1M2UOFai58fzagMM9LeCPuYtGdDG7OiFOYnCNIXWzZbN6VmrbG3fgP9mjR14T3IfIgx42PI/s16000/the-3-step-cure-to-heartbreak-barbara1923.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What life looks like on the healing journey ..... blurred, blurry, unclear, uncertain</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p></p><ol><li><b><u>Acceptance:</u></b> accept that it has happened, it is out of your hands and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it. It isn't your fault, there is nothing wrong with you, you are perfect.</li><li><b><u>Importance:</u></b> did you know that dwelling on the other person and what they have done - either ghosting you or outright breaking up with you, gives them the upper hand and makes them more important that you are? Shift the spotlight back to yourself. YOU are what is important. Your happiness, your coping mechanism and if it is working, your future and your next steps are all the most important thing at that moment. Focus on those who love you, look out for you, your family, friends and above all GOD. Trust me when I say the Word of GOD is very reassuring. </li><li><b><u>Letting Go:</u></b> easier said than done. Letting go simply means you have gone through the sadness, grief, loss, self-pity and are ready for the next thing life has in store. You are ready to let go and let GOD. </li></ol><div><br /></div><div>It took way longer than I thought for me to go through these 3 phases, but I finally did and it is a beautiful knowing and feeling. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-88657460117712883462023-09-18T21:02:00.002+01:002023-09-20T08:08:07.974+01:00Makeup 101: Back To The Basics | Ep. 1 - Primer & Foundation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYhSHmTCnC6gzh9DcTJmk3llIWFDyBdIdMNwHVxD8FAlXHtlpXF3c1ZZpkW1xsH9EB3MXtslOH4mk7seuGoRHka2C6dgI_nd1FwNiZNS6ZuOvArqQrXvWrng3d1mU3apYzaRzgvqsErfyMrzs72LcYw-_wLPFpratWs2yKRSKgs_M4HXDT2ykxILk9loM/s1280/Makeup-101-back-to-the-basics-primer-foundation.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYhSHmTCnC6gzh9DcTJmk3llIWFDyBdIdMNwHVxD8FAlXHtlpXF3c1ZZpkW1xsH9EB3MXtslOH4mk7seuGoRHka2C6dgI_nd1FwNiZNS6ZuOvArqQrXvWrng3d1mU3apYzaRzgvqsErfyMrzs72LcYw-_wLPFpratWs2yKRSKgs_M4HXDT2ykxILk9loM/s16000/Makeup-101-back-to-the-basics-primer-foundation.png" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>I stumbled on makeup.</p><p>Literally.</p><p><br /></p><p>For a long time in my life, people close to me wondered if I really knew what I was doing when I ventured into the makeup arena. I was a tomboy for my entire young, teenage ages so it was no surprise to see them react that. </p><p><br /></p><p>But over the years, as I continued to grow and develop my skill and talent in the area of makeup, one thing I realised is that - while it was easy for me to make mistakes related to makeup and easily fix them, a lot of people thought it was something magical granted to only a few. They stumbled along when it came to makeup and really just wanted to be able to enhance their looks while being themselves. </p><p><br /></p><p>I always wanted to create a makeup series for people like this and I'm glad I've finally been able to do this. Let me introduce you to <b><u>Makeup 101: Back To The Basics.</u></b></p><p><b><u><br /></u></b></p><p>In this series, I breakdown basic makeup steps, tools, products, techniques and tips.</p><p>Episode 1 starts from the very beginning of the makeup application process i.e. <b><i>Primer & Foundation</i></b></p><p><b><i><br /></i></b></p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/taFX5ikzuFE?si=jdOnv3Ju3Q-dK-O-" title="YouTube video player" width="1000"></iframe><div><br /></div><div>Products shown in the video:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Orekelewa Flat Foundation Brush</li><li>Foundation buff brushes from Zaron and Real Techniques</li><li>BM|Pro Beauty Blender Sponge</li><li>Alexia Horsfall Hydrating Primer</li><li>Zaron Mattifying Primer</li><li><a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2023/04/blackup-makeup-review.html" target="_blank">BlackUp Matte Liquid Foundation</a></li></ul><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-6001916948259068422023-09-06T19:04:00.025+01:002023-09-20T08:05:25.546+01:00The All-In-One Palette! Zaron Chisel'd.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnn2PmI4EylJqfY0173tOUAZmb875Fn6hoWu3YMFuZiaVgERLW50D92Vo5YwroF_9czH1b95jvOVShvbYhd0MO-R61kZFJic4RuDxCoUpYyBD_LNzoublPXq4JGcgGOZsBs8i28QAwl7KpbMmthuR8UeR707BFi-xk6GFP7MZ0Fx2FMWXAd8ehOKWqUt0/s3024/zaron-chiseld-6in1-face-palette-barbara1923-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnn2PmI4EylJqfY0173tOUAZmb875Fn6hoWu3YMFuZiaVgERLW50D92Vo5YwroF_9czH1b95jvOVShvbYhd0MO-R61kZFJic4RuDxCoUpYyBD_LNzoublPXq4JGcgGOZsBs8i28QAwl7KpbMmthuR8UeR707BFi-xk6GFP7MZ0Fx2FMWXAd8ehOKWqUt0/s16000/zaron-chiseld-6in1-face-palette-barbara1923-min.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p>I know that there are several times when I have wished for one product that could do everything that I needed to do in regards to doing my makeup to work every day. Thankfully, I don't think I have to look any further because Zaron Cosmetics just released <u style="font-weight: bold;">Chisel'd</u>. It is a 6-in-one palette that has concealer, contouring cream, and powders to set the concealer and contour, blush and highlighter. </p><p><br /></p><p>A literal dream come true if you ask me. </p><p><br /></p><p>Everyone knows I'm all for products that have multiple uses but usually, I have to find other ways to use a product or tool. This time around, the product was made for multiple uses and I'm absolutely loving it. I can totally see myself using the blush as eyeshadow and lip colour or using the contouring powder for a smokey eye or better still, a crease colour on my eyes.</p><p><br /></p><p>Anyway, I got to try out the product for the first time. I wanted to use it in real-time so I did a GRWM video one morning while I was getting ready for work. Basically to test out if it really does shorten my makeup application timing and if yes, by how much. Also, the practicality of it with having to use different brushes and other supporting products. </p><p><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t1LjW73cKys?si=V8gyC7g4dJGPJ-N-" title="YouTube video player" width="1000"></iframe></p><p><br /></p><p>This is my verdict, <i>(like I'm a judge, lol). </i>Starting with the first product in order of application:</p><p><br /></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Concealer: </b>I loooove that it is thick and full coverage. I only need one layer to cover my under-eye circles. Add to that - it doesn't move and isn't overtly creamy so oily-skinned girlies will love it. </li><li><b>Contouring cream: </b>my first time doing a cream contour but it was just so easy to do and the subtle shadow it gives is quite flattering <i>(I mentioned that in the GRWM video)</i><b style="font-style: italic;">. </b>It blends easily too and is soooo pigmented I was afraid I would use too much but it was easily diffused.</li><li><b>Powder: </b>I like that the shade was complementary to the concealer as I believe this was specifically to set the concealer in the palette. It was easy to apply and blended well. Although, I must admit that it does have a heaviness to it but that in no way hampers the application as it's just a matter of preference. </li><li><b>Contour Powder: </b>this is really pigmented and one has to be careful when applying it as it can easily become muddy. I like that it has a bit of red in it but not by any means overpowering. It makes it a cross between bronzer and contour which is flattering in my opinion.</li><li><b>Highlighter: </b>also very pigmented. a light dab on the product with a brush delivers a beautiful, natural light on the cheeks and other high points of the face. Want something more blinding? Then a little more dabs of the brush into the product is what you'll need.</li><li><b>Blush: </b>to be applied with a light hand if you don't want to look like colour was slapped onto your cheeks.</li></ol><div><br /></div><div>I really like the versatility of the products in the palette, especially the powder products. They can double as eyeshadow, eyeliner and even lip colour which further increases the versatility of this palette, especially for makeup newbies or those who just don't like spending too much time on their makeup, they just want to up and go. </div><div><br /></div><div>I wore this all day, without a primer, and it didn't move at all. Know what this means? All skin types can use these products with no fear of product movement or creasing unnecessarily.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBImvcl7TKS4oK-T2hdrc9HxwV_YkuT0DBEM7BBjS3fBU3Y67g8-_cQudqfV8HPcVKe1-7IEZUW-6o0tRHXD9mYCzIAyfzLsrfJlJcfT7S0xmQlwsLnToILYM1vhbil0GU_F-ZSyLrElI7D2Vd3tuhSGcp72gEylbadhcNTzRjgSgvsVvHeBcRbXQnes/s16000/zaron-chisel'd-review-barbara1923.JPG" /></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv9n6StnBcJG3vp4X7GllO7SJHGlKMStfDE-9LCFU6L1n2cdWpcSXlNNkMnI55QSv-vkjy64ZglTItF1FOTQU0WLOE3sGVOro5UIW8WpcPDmOvg811Ofc2PwTAkoBly8w0xiuhRpJ4pexY7dgxF-u6wnp75jSn9_d207vg-uMtuttngbck-HIYsK9V2QI/s16000/Zaron-chisel'd-barbara1923.JPG" /></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-8591935392694748492023-08-31T23:10:00.000+01:002023-08-31T23:10:29.409+01:00Dry Scalp Made Me Adopt Good Hair Practises. Here's How To Get Rid of it<p><img border="0" data-original-height="1477" data-original-width="1415" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWfajlARg_jcaDQB_h016_BYkBpsvp14lXYfvz_sK5OIXh9oZj5-YMV6zFy4DZ96rzsL2ZJw6cpgmc5nomeAZtWSnBxOakpJ2ymR6hlzwkdS3OwJSy_zi3z5tlroveH-HvJn0XzPjOVL-PlUprwTESEg4V37hDEq3OtQsRcl-Pfe2RiZcdUbT01kYBl0/s16000/Get-rid-of-dry-scalp-barbara1923.jpg" /><br /><br /></p><p>A couple of months ago I adopted the practise of washing my hair weekly. It did have a lot of benefits but it was mainly to manage the flaking I noticed when I scratched my scalp every once a while as little as 2 days after a wash and it itched terribly.</p><p><br /></p><p>After a while, I noticed that the flakes were everyone on the same day I had washed my hair or the day right after. At this point, I knew it was more than just dirt. There had to be more to this than just dirty scalp. Initially, I had thought </p><p><br /></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>it was because I applied very minimal oil or cream to my scalp, so I should apply hair butter more often</li><li>it was dry, so I should spray with water more often</li><li>it was because my scalp needed oil, so I should directly apply oil to my scalp at least twice a week</li></ul><br />By this time, I was exasperated and just felt like cutting my hair yet again <i>(this is one of the reasons why I started cutting it. It itched A LOT although there was no flaking). </i>It was during one of these times I visited Tresses Salon for a new product Koyinsola wanted to try. When it got to styling, the particular stylist randomly made mention of <i style="font-weight: bold;">'dry scalp'</i>. She said I had dry scalp and it kinda stuck. <p></p><p><br /></p><p>Fast forward a couple of months when I could absolutely take it no longer, I decided to do some research to know the difference between <b>Dry Scalp </b>and <b>Dandruff</b>, especially as both of them seemend to be characterised by flaking and itchiness. This is what I found</p><p><br /></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Dry Scalp and Dandruff do have the same symptoms i.e. flaking and itchiness; but they are ultimately different</li><li>Dry scalp can be cured and gotten rid of, Dandruff can only be managed</li><li>The flakes in Dry scalp are dry and smaller, the flakes in Dandruff are oily and larger</li><li>Dry scalp is as a result of dryness on the scalp, which may also appear in other parts of the skin, Dandruff is caused by the over-production of a fungus called Malassezia which typically is an unharmful yeast fungus that grows on the human skin.</li></ol><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>How I Got Rid of Dry Scalp</u></h2><div><u><br /></u></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Step 1 </h3><div>I got rid of the dry scalp first by identifying it and knowing what it was. Trust me, the first step to solving any problem is first understanding it - if you don't understand it, you can't solve it. <b>That's what I did. </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="930" data-original-width="1413" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjo7KQui-bqBnTuQ7KHf8pbq-JpUh88RQekye-B1ldRsqYfpAnhFCZrGPo7ezbW361rHLEJPimJ_TFavsQV0xyG6LXMnyBZPst-iJz4p_XLSeMkCPI5f3zmwhLO1RPYv_E74gb1xoqOdTno9WN-6hx2RY1jXuSHHZ_N7-Ciq7zwtLFJjdvpdURr9I8Gg/s16000/Dry-scalp-flakes-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Step 2</h3>After determining that it was indeed dry scalp, I proceeded to let Koyinsola of Tresses know. As a professional Tricologist, if anyone knew what to do, it was her. Although, through the research I did, I was able to discover that Tea Tree oil helps in the treatment of Dry Scalp, I just knew she would also have a solution. And she did!</div><div><br /></div><div>Koyinsola's first solution was a <u>Scalp Exfoliation</u>. I had never heard of one until that day so it was a very interesting process. A scalp exfoliation is done after shampooing the scalp <i>(it's pretty much the same principle as a body exfoliation)</i>, before conditioner. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1888" data-original-width="1063" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1B9m7egy_U99GUrxPzwGVoV_0lIEscSJBSMxGiJ9vpNtT0fqm-7acw40-dTiTsLe67-btASBI3TdkI6yCrmNI4Y1Z4dSxZgOJ7wmYcq5jjLIJfj7SZn5-ebBstixmArOnIdVBi2rPoWipT5HLDuCzQHjh3gKSXp0z8yI3W-xPJBBQAN0W_yfEEzo6iEA/s16000/Scalp-exfoliation-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>It didn't get rid of all the flakes but it lifted and softened the flakes enough for me to return to my routine of weekly hair washes. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Step 3</h3><div>She agreed that tea tree oil would help but instead of applying the oil directly to my scalp or mixing it with oil at all, she gave me a little applicator bottle with tea tree oil and water mixed together. She said that was a better way of making sure the affected areas were treated with Tea Tree oil. I went a step further to add drops of tea tree oil in every single liquid product I use for my hair - shampoo, conditioner, hair serum, leave-in conditioner - including my spray bottle. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Step 4</h3><div>I got Sulphur8 - the shampoo and the hair cream. <u style="font-weight: bold;">They have been a life saver! </u>While I don't use the shampoo all the time when washing my hair, I apply the cream every single time I am styling my hair weekly. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Step 5</h3><div>Which frankly, is the most important, I wash my hair weekly. Without fail, I wash my hair and scalp on a weekly basis with the tea tree infused products and it has greatly improved the texture and made managing my hair much easier. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've not had any incident of hair flaking after these steps and I'm very happy about it. I continue to use tea tree oil in my hair products but not as much as previously, while I also maintain the use of Sulphur8 as well. </div><div><br /></div><div>Did you suffer from dry scalp or know someone who did? Share this article with them. If you know any other treatments for dry scalp, I'd love to hear them.</div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-86408130065436974102023-08-25T17:26:00.003+01:002023-08-25T17:26:55.784+01:005 Ways to Incorporate Colour into Your Makeup for Work<p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1660" data-original-width="1400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8RpdQBnY_Kb7x-q_IZIxtoijJ20ertGF7HGYdcFfvP43XdZpScKiuRmHuBZ8OMZRdEQmu7K-qOAIhC3xjZzQb4dUqUKy_eNZoFIaogAUFB-RlLJtlIOteKKzT8h6Ngu68Z6RIqzWe7ZP0SGjK3MAszzR9B3i9XfUgESYFOpF7kpD3nKaIin6hH9Izls/s16000/zaron-primenpop-eyeshadow-palette-review-b.jpg" /></div><br /><p></p><p>Working a 9-5 can be boring <i>(trust me i know) </i>- from the corporate dress code which usually involves solid, sombre colours and definitely tucked-in shirts and tops to being expected to wear muted, nude and neutral shades of makeup accompanied by tucked-in hairstyles. They usually say that in the corporate world, one is to be crisp, smart and by no means distracting to the clients in any way, manner or form. </p><p><br /></p><p>I don't necessarily disagree but it can be a tad tedious and boring, especially for some of us who like to play around with a bit of colour every now and then. I found there are ways to play around and after working in a bank for almost 4 years, I daresay, I've been waiting for this moment to share 5 ways you can incorporate colour into your makeup for work. I've tried them all and if they worked for me while working in a bank, they are sure to work for you too.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>5 Ways To Add Colour To Your Makeup For Work</u></h2><p></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;">1. Coloured Liners</h4><div>These are a very common option when you want to incorporate colour into your makeup look for work. What you may not know is that this option can be done in different parts of the eyes </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>upper lashline area, to replace the regular black liner</li><li>lower lashline area and smudged out for a slightly coloured smokey look</li><li>waterline for a subtle pop of colour every single time you look up</li></ul><div>The coloured liner tip for work makeup looks can be achieved with either coloured liners or eyeshadow. I think that is actually the best part of this tip.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2022/07/3-tricks-to-daytime-pink-eyeshadow-look.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfzwKzWAkXnFf6u3rThGezJDxmD7a2f2u2z9H9cIf_n1p_lX3-fLM4qyBdnFdYusxpO7C6fmHz6QHIFmrnOiMuIXSUcHsBQf-zIFRCERogW2fhxFuTQZD4csNER-IRTjsR-Rnkwsd4Jw2EEw0N5QKxIHUB23AC7zIqTBkCpEU0q607ruR9EoFSf7B/s16000/a-simple-hint-of-pink-ankara.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">2. Mascara</h4><div>As surprising as it may sound, coloured mascara is a great live-saver when it comes to quick colour while rushing out of the house in the mornings. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is pretty much like regular eyeshadow but this time around, it is coloured. While it may not be overpowering, there is a certain look coloured mascara gives the face. I usually prefer to apply coloured mascara with next to no other eye colour or just a little colour.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">3. Blush</h4><div>This can be tricky for a lot of women as blush is not something a lot of women are not used to. However, they are a very good way to incorporate colour into your work makeup. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's what you can do</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>start small by just applying very little onto the apples of your cheeks i.e. the part of your cheeks that rise when you smile</li><li>blend, blend, blend so you don't look like a Babushka doll</li><li>work your way up from there and feel free to experiment with more blush and with spreading it across a wider area of your face</li></ul><div>Check out this short blush application excerpt </div></div><div><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="600" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3YjTSZd8Fhc?si=ACRvSLxz2LokKCSL&controls=0&start=214" title="YouTube video player" width="1000"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">4. Lip Tints</h4><div><br /></div><div>Also called <b>Lip stain. </b>Honestly, every single lipstick can become a tint if you know the trick. Here's what I do to turn a great lipstick into a tint:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Apply lipstick generously on moisturised lips</li><li>Smack lips together to ensure even, full coverage</li><li>Using a tissue, press down on lips and smack together to verify the amount of product left on lips</li><li>Repeat the above process until there is barely anything on the lips</li><li>There will be a stain left on the lips over which a balm can be applied</li></ul><div><b><i>Do note that this applies only to bright or dark colours in the reds, pinks, purples and oranges. </i></b></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2020/06/blog-post.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="488" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjVyL6m5JBuAoP-AhOfNvUoQ9MCyg8r3kMgr9CdHk6bwMiryqE1xpL0HCim-V-y6xvqXQAQc_X038Ny1sfcBmvhSpWIV_hzBPSfzYt0rD9ULXwU57qQbAyla7gKOoAYrEeW8j_vWz1No/s16000/YSL-Tatouage-red-lips-barbara1923-2.gif" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">5. Eyeshadow</h4><div>This is usually where people are likely to go over-board as a light hand is required to apply colour to the lids without it being overpowering or distracting.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>advise: get an eyeshadow palette or quad that is regulated to office or work use only. This will ensure you don't get distracted while doing your makeup in the morning. </i></div><div><br /></div><div>To apply a light eyeshadow application, use a fluffy eyeshadow brush with medium density. That way, there is sufficient fluff to diffuse the product while ensuring there is still colour. If you are adventurous, the 4 colours in the below quad will be perfect to incorporate colour into your makeup for work.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2016/06/review-illusions-cosmetics-butterfly-palette.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2MiWT3m5GKakzXgI23E-dzDzVnqfUOx6cv_hyrchQMsstU512xqjqmbmor_1KmfuLXoFT4DFs58rE1E-vHOF852MKucuqYcZaVHL0nLECayxfyOMj5p0I0CCOyFLjHf4g-iATO9GsmsY/s16000/illusions-cosmetics-butterfly-palette-review-barbara1923_4_zpszznmazbp.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>One last tip; for each of these tips on how to incorporate colour into your makeup for work, the ultimate key is to ensure the focus is on that colour ONLY. For example, coloured mascara, liner or eyeshadow should be paired with nude lips or plain glossy lips and lip tints should be paired with a simple eyeshadow look and black mascara. </div><div><br /></div><div>While one would like to add pizzazz to their work makeup, there is absolutely no need to be a distraction to others with it so do be careful and remember to <u>always use a light hand.</u></div><div><br /></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-63213153593661757492023-08-24T13:12:00.000+01:002023-08-24T13:12:42.623+01:001923 Visits The New, Picturesque Hegai & Esther Store<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIjrqyw_Rx3IoSk5RxGvhKCr6Mh_FZVYzl2P9nTk81Oohk7LkXb0EbvOZL1T9uPFSezpOMtZ3NYZBylJhFxbKmbWvCY0Dyg3sTzxhQapzhW7wND4B_wL1ThO5IGWw1OkJ5Iui0HiOjoyYUha_JSqRMMY3Woi88qC_8NKC45_m2EAyQaD8PGxcaHtbI8zg/s16000/HegaiandEsther-store-opebi.jpg" /></div><br /><p></p><p>My very first major campaign as a blogger and content creator was with Hegai & Esther. They had just launched the <a href="http://www.barbara1923.com/2013/05/product-review-asta-gel-liners-by-hegai.html" target="_blank">Asta Gel liners</a> and they were the first Nigerian brand to have a line of gel liners. I received all 5 of the gel liner shades and I wanted to do something different apart from using them as liners so I created an <a href="http://www.barbara1923.com/2013/08/my-week-with-hegai-esthers-asta-gel.html" target="_blank">eyeshadow series for the gel liners </a> <i>(just click on the blank image holders for them to load)</i>. I received a glowing testimonial from the owner - Mrs. Gbemisola Adebayo - for the series <i>(and testimonials are cherished diamonds for bloggers).</i></p><p><br /></p><p>All that was in 2013. </p><p><br /></p><p>I continued to receive support from Hegai & Esther for a variety of projects from then till now <i>(even when I was CSR co-ordinator at Noah's Ark Communications and wanted to teach the kids creative skills like makeup, photography, graphic design e.t.c)</i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p>I was unable to visit the new Hegai & Esther store, studio & creative hub when they first opened last year but I finally made the trip and checked it out and I was all shades of impressed. From the entrance to literally every nook and cranny, every corner is picturesque. The furniture is super modern and a sure conversation starter and there was a mirror upstairs I could stand in front of for days. </p><p><br /></p><p>Here are some pictures of the Hegai & Esther store</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1888" data-original-width="2518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8x-RReeV6zpddP1hfsX27qe9fTDU5Vm55rH7XViySAt3Lj9nwKSxSlE6jBQV9PqdRkvu2BHwAYzjbbJR22thyy-xF07rntDVzngvCgJSjT5mkRbCVwqhg9ENSVp3V0rQ2cuOoUZqj9EN598AEwBdx8UgtCVVoZnuAL3X59z9Sn9gSN9lq07aaiO7tg_8/s16000/hegaiandesther-store.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1888" data-original-width="2518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5IfHHaSrCkrqAi4gqUaWbf2yK5z9zpI_PI3kxDL5mVBboUEf6fOeotfwUyp_-qQyj0yoEL2wMp02jzEoN2Ugbdxu675KrBjSN35FyEarHfZkMAiBomr0GW109_P7Fizw3_bBxgt7TlLna2JmYtISCrNlt8VM-Z0WZCizb9LSr8TZYwRwjfQT7euLmhA/s16000/hegaiandesther-store-testing-station.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1888" data-original-width="2518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkx8-joQGagjgEJYmzXOCK6GSRiQxKNxJ6aGuxeUdo8SUTA42pJesIMhr7nhH2LLXLvlrUHN2EBiNWaQ3-yeqB_AFO6Gwcay3wwf-LSFtL3A4kkwaKXSocJPbyT2Xi5RfRZWLJ__rgIBest4v6VJAvlfgym7VmDQt_GMo_i_sVzh2_bRTl1NCMjP2rcw/s16000/20230823_140235.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The store also has <u>Suites</u> that can be booked for content creation, makeup classes or a workshop. Here are 2 out of 3.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1888" data-original-width="2518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GTJFCJLUZvY8zpzZJuB1US4eBf8GOqiXNKzyKENpUtDgX11UbQWkla0lq7uryIaY7k39tCpE7Gu_ZErRVmgpBWg0SaQjWnogiVROeGp2pMIOYPRl_9Zo_T3lLcvv4gnPU5tvda-URmxm0C3XtT2z3xW3E5BMd5p8u0cxiAoJE5XBT7_-aU2pYzd9mqQ/s16000/HegaiandEsther-store-suite-1.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1888" data-original-width="2518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYrBVjeVXCsNIM4VhtHqpV2Uf_K72FRRtp4gLsDNLa9XvwV8aTM96KeIv4ChQtN8-aV2TLn-ffsLm3_5_V-i5HhnAUpUksfmKVuOTy-CSpqWkkz4uHWhozYwkwfmmvBHop-Glt_5hmftLNmwvqpu7i0ZbXC45dAbZWLURiavF5qtgYyzNlE1lqxyIyy0/s16000/HegaiandEsther-store-opebi.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">There is an affirmation wall in the Hegai & Esther store that I absolutely had to take a picture in front of. In case you are looking for it when you visit, it is in a nook on the first floor landing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p><img border="0" data-original-height="1888" data-original-width="1415" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLnslleo3GdDxyu5g3l0DZkhGLOzVek6Se7H4NO-UFbOgPFkE_J62E2Ifzap58SYqLgjJLAb7JsdbAPrbcmns2iMi5KSksjARDUhZmBPAQ4xEp1miRt7wjO1eLILiEcRrtQj6Te0AImI4I83axEtjKbjh1xkqr24SuJaJYV6-NdDYO92pFUCyoELQVraA/s16000/barbara1923-visits-HegaiandEsther-store.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /></p><p><br /></p><p>If you are ever in the area, be sure to stop by the store, take pictures and tag us on social media. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com72 Opebi Rd, Lagos 101233, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria6.5871239 3.3629034-21.723109936178844 -31.7933466 34.897357736178847 38.5191534tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-90299899679577816342023-07-14T15:52:00.001+01:002023-07-14T15:52:32.588+01:00Half-Year 2023 Beauty Empties Edition | The 17 Products I've Loved & Hated So Far<p><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0qTpHqYAR5X5WJLkOAhMhT8dvnkPsnLC_Zi9D8CZead8RaGORz37UDY4KTzjOtg8qhnjvhoezOn3hH_atD3FvCf3PR8cZbK10zcg_QCvFPv9t5aooqO_yht8VWx-t949blm0LdX9uOKKDzGFZT8FkldI2BxDvp88z-ZGaDHEIpaSeQdY8lZs3IPREX8/s16000/June-beauty-empties-barbara1923.jpg" /><br /><br /></p><p>It's just getting into the second half of 2023 and I thought it would be a great idea to introduce something I've only ever done once before - <a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2016/04/for-love-of-old-makeup.html" target="_blank"><b>For The Love of Old Makeup</b></a>. Was clearing out my collection (<i>Like I almost always do)</i> and saw I had a lot of empties I never got to talk about. </p><p><br /></p><p>A number of these products are loves, some are maybes and 1 is a definite NO, NEVER lol. No worries, I'll tell you why and you can empathise with me. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQXO-5jWQMR8NDZ_Dspfq6zP23Jr9y7ezBKy-1-58Fu1i1kI-tQy8nWrhw-MOGY0tW1LGFkGxKxtGEHFsFQLAeV9mhgt6j7rUU4NhcBc3u3CYhTPJwL2bGk6R3MhXKYXp_a1JKaY9au_WTyq5RInsNb2GHIMRcsEEE9zHbMfCDNAJym5Kgn0-EAjVACY/s16000/CosRx-Blot%20cosmetics-SkinScience-Arami%20(1).jpg" /></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">CosRx Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser</h3><div>As recommended by my aesthetician, I use this every morning to wash my face for 60secs. But it lasts forever - literally. I am at the point of wondering whether to toss it out and just start using the new one I purchased to replace it, <i>lol. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>It really is a gentle cleanser and a little goes a really long way. The very first time I used the CosRx Salicylic Acid Gentle Cleanser, I squirted out the same amount of product as I usually would with a liquid cleanser <i>(this product is a cream cleanser)</i>, and spent about 15mins and 3 bowls of water trying to rinse off my face. </div><div><br /></div><div>The best part is that although it is gentle and gives off the feel of a silky, creamy feel to the skin after rinsing off, it leaves a slightly squeaky clean feel which I like without the skin being stripped off. It also washes off makeup pretty well too especially when there is some left after taking off makeup.</div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://flutterwave.com/store/blotbeautycosmetics/jyrleuo836t0pb" rel="nofollow">Blot Velvet Foam Cleanser</a></h3><div>This product is for sensitive skin or you just want to feel rich. Blot Cosmetics provides this product with a gentle loofah which is used to gently exfoliate the skin while using this product to wash.</div><div><br /></div><div>It really is a very bougie product. The skin does feel velvety after use and I absolutely love the fragrance this product leaves behind after rinsing off. </div><div><br /></div><div>To show you how gentle and mild this cleanser is, the Blot Velvet Foam Cleanser doesn't take off makeup and only takes off actual surface dirt on the skin. I tried using this with my hands as opposed to the loofah and it felt like a futile task as I'm not sure anything happened on my face at all. </div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>skip</u></i></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.skinscienceafrica.com/product-page/skinscience-gly-sal-5-2-cleanser" rel="nofollow">Skin Science GlySal 5-2 Cleanser</a></h3><div>I got this product actual months after the release. I had wanted to purchase it about 3 months after the launch but it kept being sold out on the website. When my aesthetician said I could use - but at night only - I diligently waited to see available on the site and quickly cooped it <i>(I already have a backup for it in storage so no more out-of-stock for me)</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>I'm not sure why of all the videos I watched and feedback I saw on this product, not a single one ever mentioned the fact that this product doesn't lather. It is still so weird to me. This product doesn't lather AT ALL and you absolutely need to shake it before use otherwise, you get an almost water-looking thing when you try to squeeze some of the product out. </div><div><br /></div><div>The first tube I got didn't mention shaking before use, but it is possible that the brand got some feedback cos the extra I have, has it written on the tube.</div><div><br /></div><div>I love this product. This is the one product that made me question the purpose of lather. It cleans the face without leaving a single piece of residue on it - even makeup, and you know how there is still some dirt on the skin when using cotton wool to apply toner or astringent on the skin after cleansing? There is no single dirt after washing my face with the SkinScience GlySal Exfoliating cleanser.</div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase </u></i></div><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Arami Onyx Light</h3><div>My aesthetician advised me to stop using this product on my skin as it was too harsh on my skin otherwise, Arami Onyx Light is the only product I'd use for my face and body. It is another product that literally never finishes as a little bit of it goes a REALLY long way. Heck, I used to use 2 drops of this to wash my entire face. I reviewed this in a previous post <a href="http://www.barbara1923.com/2022/09/arami-wander-series-skincare-101-for-dummies.html" target="_blank">here</a>. This product is so good, I usually just pour it into the 2ml bottle and take it with me for a work trip which lasts up to 4 days and it is always more than enough. </div><div><br /></div><div>The only snag with this though is that there is a tendency to use more than one needs because it is liquid. When this happens it terribly dries out the facial skin. This experience taught me how to use not more than 3 drops of this to wash my face squeaky clean with no residue. </div><div><br /></div><div>One of the reasons I respect this product a lot is how it manages to take off every stitch of makeup in one wash. Using Onyx Light to remove my makeup is the ONLY time I use 4/5 drops of it. But it takes off every single bit of makeup. If you have tough skin that can handle it, then this will be perfect for you. </div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA52J90-PVnfl8kpvDXXewf1ph0Y6tUvztjw9De0UgZ5178yqoZ5bBqrkydJIAYBr21CjoJMjedM5jTBd_6yBwNdaOw0YR4XM3_p2_TONvn4RJfEHf52v4u2BI0hlMJ4_IGMxzW4VAw_uGiTJ-noRqts1cKpkvXXBbDjLIcViaaFIhYwjCiFg_DvSOB5Y/s16000/Arami-Shea%20Moisture%20(1).jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://aramiessentials.com/product/hydra-gel/" rel="nofollow">Arami Hydra Gel</a></h3><div>I'll be honest, I'm still on the bench about this one. It is indeed deeply moisturizing but the texture is somewhat thick and makes the application not smooth. I do wish it was easier to blend on the skin. Although, there is a hack to it which is to add a couple drops of Arami Joy Oil and mix with Hydra Gel. It lightens the heavy texture of hydra gel and makes the application smoother. </div><div><br /></div><div>I do like the feel of my skin after Hydra Gel. It feels like a coat of protection literally but it just seems tedious applying the product though. </div><div><br /></div><div>Meanwhile, I'm going to get a refill for it so I'd say try it and then decide fully for yourself.</div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Shea Moisture Virgin Coconut Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm</h3><div>I love Shea Moisture, but they failed with this product. Although it hasn't finished, I already consider it empty.</div><div><br /></div><div>This product is very, very messy and coupled with the fact that I already don't like the mess taking off makeup sometimes brings with this, add oil makeup cleansing and you've lost me. </div><div><br /></div><div>This product doesn't rinse off the skin after application and it stains the sink so bad I need to take extra time to wash the sink every single time. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's a big <u style="font-weight: bold;">NO</u> for me</div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>kill</u></i></div><div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2951" data-original-width="3933" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgImKJ9NZ-__SO2B-HX_Q7yICdzifhOlzw-L4CNn9xlMCEFimQesOlw1rxI6pIjzjvOHQS0qga1qcsGlRdGupI2IgpUZZ7e_4U0wOuhe7DnwbQzDdbmJW0DeJgJyASi7gmHs8neKKXMzfRQTzgaFLODv_g_0taO7Xn8UQlqMfSnAMw8vAz0fNyUVF-UG58/s16000/Blot%20cosmetics-Nuban-Zaron-Black%20Opal%20(1).jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://flutterwave.com/store/blotbeautycosmetics/6glejmkuzxuuru" rel="nofollow">Blot Hydra Priming Moisturizer</a></h3><div>This product blends beautifully with foundation to create a tinted moisturiser but with more coverage than your regular tinted moisturiser. I love to apply a full pump of this and then a half pump of foundation for a clean, barely there foundation finish. Underpainting works so well with this technique as it just blends everything out leaving you with a perfectly natural and even finish. </div><div><br /></div><div>This moisturiser isn't heavy at all and so works for combination to normal skin. For the oily skin girlies, I wouldn't recommend as you know how their skin can get. </div><div><br /></div><div>For moisturising only, it doesn't feel exceptional and so might not be wow, but I would definitely repurchase this for mixing with foundation for a light every day coverage. Blot Cosmetics definitely did a thing with this.</div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><div><i><u><br /></u></i></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://flutterwave.com/store/blotbeautycosmetics/ukfj6ar6ttam" rel="nofollow">Blot Mattifying Face Veil</a></h3><div>I like this product. </div><div>I'm not usually a primer girl as I feel it is a waste of product for every day use, so I usually skip it. But the Blot Mattifying Face Veil is light enough to feel like a light moisturiser which helps my foundation stay a bit longer without becoming glowy compared to if I applied my makeup without it. </div><div><br /></div><div>I really like the consistency of the product and I did get a bit tired of the matte, velvet finish all matte primers began to have with Smashbox Photo Finish primer as the pioneer of them all. </div><div><br /></div><div>I don't know if the Blot Mattifying Face Veil will work as well for oily skin but I'm very happy with it so far. </div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>skip</u></i></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://nubanbeauty.com/products/in-my-skin-foundation" rel="nofollow">Nuban In My Skin Foundation</a></h3><div>My love for this foundation knows no bounds. I love the texture, the finish, the spread, the fact that is water-based and it makes my skin look sooooo gorgeous whenever I use it. </div><div><br /></div><div>I would say that the brand did a great job with the In My Skin foundation especially when paired with the finishing powder. </div><div><br /></div><div>The first time I used this foundation was sort of surreal - the application was so easy, the result was flawless and the finish was impeccable. I get so many compliments when I use this product and the best part is that a little indeed goes a long way unlike some other foundations that need.</div><div><br /></div><div>The only downside I noticed is that when the product is about to finish, the water base accumulates and sits on top of the product. I had to drain the water out after it spilled all over my face and clothes one time I tipped the bottle to apply, and finish up the rest of the foundation. Otherwise, this is a great product.</div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><div><i><u><br /></u></i></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://zaroncosmetics.com/product-category/zaron-makeup/face-zaron-makeup/" rel="nofollow">Zaron Brown Skin Compact Powder</a></h3><div>When Zaron released the Brown Skin range, I did wonder how different it was from the other compact powder the brand had at the time. </div><div><br /></div><div>Fast forward 2 years later and I'm now a die-hard fan of the Brown Skin powder. Considering I'm not a powder gal, it is strange seeing myself applying powder so religiously but the consistency and light weight quality of the product is so nice and smooth. </div><div><br /></div><div>I use the Brown Skin powder as an all over setting powder and under-eye powder highlighter whenever I want a really natural highlight look. </div><div><br /></div><div>The only downside to this compact powder is that it finishes before the foundation even when you buy them together and start using them at the same time. This is due to it's full coverage quality compensating for where foundation application wasn't done properly. Instead of reaching for foundation to fix it, the powder works just fine and it makes it easier. If you don't mind purchasing this in the ration 1:2 for foundation and powder.</div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><div><i><u><br /></u></i></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Black Opal Total Coverage Face+Body Concealer</h3><div>I've loved this product from the very first day I used it over 4 years ago. From the consistency to the ease of application, the texture and how easy it is to blend whether with a brush or a puff, it just works. </div><div><br /></div><div>I usually use this as my under eye concealer and to spot conceal any particular scar or mark I want to cover on my face when I want a flawless look. It also helps when I need slight warmth or red undertone on my skin as my skin tends to fluctuate between red and yellow undertones sometimes. </div><div><br /></div><div>A little of this product goes a long way and it is very good value for money. I've re-purchased this product 3 times since the first time Black Opal gifted it to me so there must be something there right?</div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIVlsYb4Q7fX6CSPN-qygOVQQvCLuaRilzMAKLtZ4EACjpVvKb42K9N0Y6xueFUCvHZk7CVmPcOGH0wrnY5X8LNdjjKO7eVoCXwi6jQ_TyFMbUu1H-kfSkTspKFF695zS0BBbZ8D8OTWOZA3U1QlXYUUdmUt8ucMESa64CgSOG8KGl-a-MGNHMNm1CuQ/s16000/Ewami%20Micros%20Oilish-Arami%20HLR%20Drops%20(1).jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have shared in depth reviews of these 2 products you can read them here <u style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2023/05/body-scrubs-are-they-real-deal-or-nah.html" target="_blank">Ewami Satin Micro Polish</a></u> and <b><u><a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2022/07/my-first-experience-with-skincare-acids.html" target="_blank">Arami HLR Drops</a></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Both of them are definitely <i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyVCzLLdCz8OBoYSDYiMOuTksJ9P7G3HvLpC0pKCilYGVHMJXF_kb-Ij-aSWt-IIXHMuAZEm8-j0kFfFkIVbB1F9x-ei86S07Ts5aQMN3W0NaopNsbSEI3ul0tWhTmhVq9j4YBiRrr7bCODOBQuCny5t6FubmBoGzI4Tiamhs2EuaVNGqwagYjW5kgA20/s16000/Unco%20er-Tiam-Arami%20(1).jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.skinscienceafrica.com/product-page/uncover-rooibos-glow-toner" target="_blank">Uncover Rooibos Glow Toner</a></h3><div>I'll be honest and say that at first I had thought this would be a strong toner but when I had slight reaction, it came to my rescue and I was glad I had an itsy bitsy bit left at the time because that was what I used until my skin recovered.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have a review of this product <a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2023/06/uncovering-my-skin-with-uncover-rooibos.html" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">here</a> but it is a definite <u style="font-style: italic;">repurchase</u> for me especially for those emergency skincare situations when you stop every single thing and revert to the barest minimum.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Tiam Vita B3 Source</h3><div>This product was recommended by my aesthetician for brightening my skin and I have repurchased once since I started using it but I really can't see the brigthening...at least not yet, <i>lol. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>I believe this is one of those skincare products that one needs to use for a really long time before they see the benefits so I'll wait 6 more months and hope it does brighten my facial skin and I can permanently stop using my hydroquinone cream.</div><div><br /></div><div>The one thing I like about this product is the texture. It ALMOST has the same texture as Snail Mucin essence and this means a little goes a long way and it makes my skin feel really smooth right before I have to apply my Sunscreen in the morning. </div><div><br /></div><div>Would you recommend I try using this in the night instead?</div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><div><i><u><br /></u></i></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://aramiessentials.com/product/joy-oil/">Arami Joy Oil</a></h3><div>I shot a cute, short, little video when I unboxed this but I think that video is lost somewhere in my google cloud drive now 😕. </div><div><br /></div><div>It comes in a beautiful bottle and is beautiful to photograph and has the lovely hibiscus petals in it and a really cool, calm scent and above all is a lightweight oil. </div><div><br /></div><div>At first, I used it to moisturise but later started using it as the very last step in my nighttime skincare after moisturiser and it has made a heck of a lot of difference. My skin is so much more supple now and responds to hydrating products better than before. I genuinely like the feel of my skin in the morning while washing it. </div><div><br /></div><div>It says you can use this for hair too but unfortunately, I'm currently sticking to Tea tree oil on my scalp as the result of a reaction so I've been unable to try it out. But, Arami has a refill for this product so I'll still get to try it on my scalp in the near future. </div><div><br /></div><div><i><u>repurchase</u></i></div><div><i><u><br /></u></i></div><div><i><u><br /></u></i></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://aramiessentials.com/product/ultra-shade/">Arami Ultra Shade</a></h3><div>The Arami Essentials website says this product won't be restocked as a better formulation is being worked on and I'm happy about this. This product irritates my eyes a lot when I apply it all over my face. I had to find a way to maneuver around my face so it doesn't come any close to my eyes. It was so bad initially that I actually gave feedback to the brand so I'm really glad this product is being worked on. </div><div><br /></div><div>I actually repurchased after the first tube cos I love the consistency of the cream and how it makes my skin glow after application. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'll be looking forward to the new formula and you bet I'll be reviewing it when that comes out.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Phew!!!!!</div><div>That's all my feedback, comments and opinions on 17 of the beauty products I've used in the first half of 2023. </div><div><br /></div><div>Which ones have you used and do you have the same comments/feedback as I do on them?</div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-10.678846903487603 -14.1989193 23.727605503487602 20.9573307tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-32963770662193540642023-07-06T21:07:00.001+01:002023-07-06T21:07:03.067+01:00Let the Eyes Speak with the Zaron Eyez Mattaz Collection | Eyebrows, Liquid Liner & Eyepencil<p><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkiexeZ3fy6r0WqDZJheK0lEqqORNIlL5pwP58XJYiL29NQmCnzE6bhBBIhJ9k4-6af0YP_2zQMJAaN4igy40gnO5Bof_YlphnS-_HdNZBQelMSCCKgoLtTbyMYX7rDXqFot5sqmUtO3wqclNXUkEuQ4y0NgfWyzGpoc88Q0rUQ4-JurovbKayxmKB73U/s16000/Zaron-eyez-mattaz-collection-barbara1923.jpg" /></p><p><br /></p><p>With the advent of simplified makeup looks that are literally plug-and-play or placed on repeat, the desire for simpler and easier-to-replicate eye looks have been in high demand by mobile women who desire easier and simpler ways of looking good without the hassle. </p><p><br /></p><p>As you know, I'm in that category of women too - <u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">want to look good with less product within 10mins.</u> That's why when Zaron cosmetics gifted me the new <b>Eyez Mattaz 3-piece collection</b>, I knew I had to put it to the test the very next day. </p><p><br /></p><p>Here is how it went<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2397" data-original-width="1966" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkKu8mbkeEheSvUM_AmoCTI34BErGJhv3V-_o2Gf3AccmJCBg-g1iW2kRXWzvwqhm22sNerDN08-dVU13b8hlLZqsv7-Ly54dKIirw4C5Rz13-RPGzaaLh9XUSPbWMgwAk3PBpqQXYfeVOGvJnTvlQrCApu9mtG5ufqKqrgXI_MUb3pTNUEvf4HlvbLg/s16000/zaron-eyez-mattaz-barbara1923%20(2).jpg" /></div><br /><div>The first thing to know when it comes to myself and eyeliner products is </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I hate to fight with liquid liner so I opt for powder or pencils</li><li>I never fill my brows cos I love to rock them as full as they are with very minimal grooming to keep them in place</li><li>I have dark circles around my eyes which I usually enhance to create what I like to call a 'natural smokey eye' so I mostly just wear volumising mascara.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>This time around, I decided to try out the collection the very next day with a full face of makeup to work and this here is my verdict</div></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://zaroncosmetics.com/product/zaron-eyezmattazz-smoke-gel-liner/">Smoke Gel Liner</a></h3><div><u>What the brand says</u></div><div><div></div><blockquote><div>Matte black gel formula in a convenient pen!</div><div>– Waterproof formula, perfect for both water line and upper lid.</div><div>– Smudge-proof formula that glides on effortlessly and lasts all day even in all weather conditions</div></blockquote><div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Retractable gel liner pens have ALWAYS been my favourite from the moment I realised liquid liner was not for me so I do have a little extra thing for this pen here. </div><div><br /></div><div>There is also the fact that it really is black and so shows up beautifully on my eyelids. </div><div><br /></div><div>Does it do what it says? YES! It is waterproof and stays on ALL day long. It didn't budge the day I had it on and everyone at work kept commenting on my eye look that day so it definitely was a smash hit as far as I'm concerned.</div><div><br /></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzB8PHCs1o1UZR_WN1QP1WpB6YxHsOkBOXh7iODtnyMeC0IGXq-qjTtN5LaCbi_hMx7kggl_pLLGplfvEWB8534LuGeiBI8zczKJei_Aq07Npou-YvF9YjjRiovxf5rUiaStCLudvxPfRiZqfB9CQqsy89wYgRRjsEntkdUVMUsOYv7lRudK0RIqy0RgI/s16000/zaron%20eyez%20mattaz%20smoke%20gel%20liner.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /></div><div><br /></div><div><h3><a href="https://zaroncosmetics.com/product/zaron-eyezmattaz-collection-axe-liquid-liner/">Axe Liquid Liner</a></h3><div><u>What the brand says</u></div></div><div><div></div><blockquote><div>A precise tip for a perfect wing.</div><div>– Anti-smudge and long-lasting wear.</div><div>– Intense pigmentation.</div><div>– Sleek pen for easy grip and precision.</div><div>– Easy to use and perfect for beginners and eye-liner enthusiasts</div></blockquote><div></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not a beginner but liquid liners have always had the best of me so I might as well admit my amateurism when it comes to liquid liners, <i>lol.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>While I'm not yet a pro with graphic liners & creating magic designs while using it, I will be the first to admit that it makes the process easier. I did need a magnifying mirror and a heck of a lot of patience but I managed to pull off a good liquid liner look. </div><div><br /></div><div>One of the snags I've always had with liner pens is the fact that they dry up eventually but I'm hoping this one lasts way longer....I also hope I use it more often than all the previous ones I've owned too.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb45K2wUJAuxRybrK-pNttRVV_udRoycHalyhH8XJ0yl1k7ADi2O68wY1n2PTLl0FmuNaNu6Scis9SaujPlrzceKvjo4DEy-_AHYDZ7PAtW3SbNtV6Wt-DjPG-HF5uY875ISkfyJTlyi_8f6snrdEu-NBzd7gch2UsOnBN7IzdP0ekYbZyJ8O07TJgIzM/s16000/zaron%20eyez%20mattaz%20axe%20liquid%20liner.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h3><a href="https://zaroncosmetics.com/product/zaron-eyezmattaz-fleek-3-in-1sculpting-gel-eyebrow-pencil/">Fleek 3-in-1 Eyebrow Pencil</a></h3><div><u>What the brand says</u></div><div><u><br /></u></div><div><div></div><blockquote><div>Fleek is a sculpting gel brow pencil that plays 3 different essential functions💥💥💥</div><div><br /></div><div>This brow pencil features:</div><div>– Gel formula for long lasting effect and easy application</div><div>– Triangular shaped pencil for easy and precise application</div><div>– Concealer/highlighter to define eyebrows to perfection</div><div>– Perfect brown shade to suite all complexions</div><div>– Spoolie to brush eyebrows for ease of application and a natural finish</div><div>– Buildable formular that glides smoothly and delivers perfection</div><div>– Retractable pencil that doesn’t require sharpening</div></blockquote><div></div><div style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><br /></div><div>Yup! That's a lot right?</div></div><div>I thought so too.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you've followed me long enough in recent times, then you know that eyebrow pencils are not my strong point and I end up using them for other things mainly being lip liner. Uhm, I'm not sure Fleek will suddenly make me addicted to drawing my brows overnight but I gave it a try and I think I have a few things to say about it.</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>The colour is pigmented enough to show up on darker skin tones. I didn't have to apply too much pressure for it to show</li><li>The triangular shape of the pencil really, really helps especially when drawing the eyebrow arch</li><li>I love spoolies. They are my best friend so you can be sure that I'm always going to find need for a spoolie, <i>lol</i></li><li>The brow powder applicator was a bit of a surprise for me mainly because I'd never come across an eyebrow pencil that had it. However, I discovered another use for it apart from being just an applicator. I found out it could be used as an eraser too. Why add more product when you can take off product in just the right areas? If you are dexterous at drawing the kind of brows you like, the powder applicator will be your best friend for sure. </li></ol></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3e4PkiXhkCGwbgwqyUXigeFAGblZybnHkOrATJjfgmkicWg3Sol_igpy_olbi2L9dp_SlvxgGgV31Z3oQyZPtQEB6r31tP99LONapEiUYH4TnYobEOq7_K1xg4nM7lDeAhVpmBfr_GW4hWwj-Ly4_WPKk5e6N6si3fJRtW6KQFXAbWXJdl-W_Sj9ZW8/s16000/Zaron%20eyez%20mattaz%20fleek%20eyebrow%20pencil.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div>There we are, my short but straight-forward review of Zaron Eyez Mattaz collection. <div><br /></div><div>Does it really matter what the products do? Do we really need yet more products? For me, I love the fact that the products are so cute they don't take up any space at all. For me, that's their best selling point actually. They are small, easy to apply and return in a purse or handbag and you won't even notice. Coupled of course with the fact that it is actually affordable at less than N10,000 for all 3 products, I'd say it is worth it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Trust me, unless you use these every single day and are overtly ambitious with your brows and liner application, these will last you a considerable length of time.</div><div><div><br /></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="2633" data-original-width="1974" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PwANEh6CaOlxzwYllhTYxYlP6PhMhzzgzM92o7Tpffv1JxttqaOaBnQc4WajynPJbofa_ZPSX5EYOe_ykO5KnW9GR5-B0wd_2HGgsvvs81WYn1XiNxPBH_L596LGIAJ9gG2MU-486XSznGHt5un4aJlJ7g_Qm-wNKXTvg5MoBCki7fTJ1LN9C3d7SsM/s16000/Zaron-eyez-mattaz-barbara1923.jpg" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Let me leave you with one last look at my gorgeous look using Eyez Mattaz. </div><div>Hope you don't mind 😊</div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-13833137881738078422023-06-27T02:24:00.005+01:002023-06-27T03:01:23.750+01:00The Top 3 Beauty Trends Taking Over in Nigeria<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSCVJBbniyusbhniEEdyVCVxPWvePjuc3gNMhByXWUSOdpB7S872_QAaPvco7hmHafmWH7vjCFc4jisqtH5Wdh-EQcdt-VV3ydpRQQFfMvzL5M0297DPmTiEsxxMLKmssF52_nxC_KrNXm7SW5tmhbM6y7xR3nzGiCl3VGxmqpt3tdwWKZks9azHV1724/s16000/IMG_9913.jpg" /></div><br /><p>Beauty trends come and go each season but I will admit that in Nigeria, they are wont to stay much, much longer than just a season. After all, how many seasons do we have now right?</p><p><br /></p><p>Well, I've been paying attention and 3 top beauty trends have stayed true right from 2020 till now and they don't seem to be going anywhere any time soon. </p><p><br /></p><h1 style="text-align: left;">Top 3 Nigerian Beauty Trends</h1><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Subtle Makeup Glam</h3><div>There was a time when bold and strong colours were the other of the day when it came to Nigerian makeup looks but there has been a total 360 turnaround to more subtle glam not just in everyday looks but also in looks for the red carpet and events these days. Don't believe me? Just take a cursory look at the red carpet looks we see these days and you'll begin to understand what I mean.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is now the prevalence of eyeshadow colour washes and minimal/natural tones, as opposed to intricate colour eyeshadow applications; more red lips taking the focus and no more clashes of eyes and lips; more focus on bronzed/highlighted/glowing skin and less on colour in makeup.</div><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Natural Hair</h3><div>As much as I'm tempted to say this refers to the natural hair that comes out of our head, I can't, <i>lol. </i>While this includes women now embracing their natural curls, kinks, and coils, and using hair oils, hair creams, and other natural hair products to nourish and care for their hair, </div><div><br /></div><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CikNW9yj68b/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 3px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px 0px 1px 0px, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15) 0px 1px 10px 0px; margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0px; width: calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding: 16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CikNW9yj68b/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 0; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0px;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0px auto 12px; width: 50px;"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g fill-rule="evenodd" fill="none" stroke-width="1" stroke="none"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; 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<p></p><p>It also means, embracing their natural hair - <u style="font-weight: bold;">unrelaxed or relaxed.</u> There is more focus on 'healthy' hair in general, and more awareness of how to care for the hair even when wearing a wig or weaves. </p><p>There is also a lot of DIY in hair now unlike before when there was a heavy reliance on salons. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying people don't patronise salons again, I'm saying that they've learned how to do the things done in the salons too.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Skincare</h3><div><br /></div><div>I like this trend. </div><div>It has made me more conscious, aware and knowledgeable about skincare ingredients, techniques, more consistent and generally more in tune with my skin. </div><div><br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtU1KiprurC/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 3px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px 0px 1px 0px, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15) 0px 1px 10px 0px; margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0px; width: calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding: 16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtU1KiprurC/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 0; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0px;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0px auto 12px; width: 50px;"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g fill-rule="evenodd" fill="none" stroke-width="1" stroke="none"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; 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</div><div><br /></div><div>As we all know, this began during the pandemic and now, everywhere we turn, there is kBeauty, Essences, Acids, Serums, Toners, Moisturisers, Cleansers etc. Terms like double cleansing have become the norm as well. The target is a healthy, glowing, natural skin and I'm totally here for this particular trend.</div><div><br /></div><div>Which of the 3 trends are you absolutely in love with?</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-10962043976337635762023-06-21T03:59:00.005+01:002023-06-21T04:03:46.159+01:00A Double Clarins Review | The Clarins Bright Plus Advanced Brightening Dark Spot Serum & The Clarins Double Serum Light Texture<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1341" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLeNX_ZNBg20Zy0Pc40YviGexkZSqT9Vy1bAk1sipBN4tWBCIOOoLvKXPUztGxHGAJWDct3Gyvi7Pk95udREiydbO3sDHp_zYQF3uSxtB9WooAYnmTOnwrr-MX3QhyqoFxSCNcxiiwZc7q869at-wR_J41j1zt-lkhUXGNSPNIUTsaD0KYZOV39oz0/s16000/Double-Clarins-review.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">According to Clarins, these 2 products do the same thing with the Double Serum being an older Sister and able to do more than the Bright Plus.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I got both of them as PR from the Brand and enjoyed them in their own way separately. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My skin had been in the throes of skin blemishes, acne and dehydration at the time I received the Bright Plus. But it was in a much better place by the time, the Double Serum Light Texture was received in the mail. So 2 different experiences, and 2 different Clarins products. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The one thing they both obviously have in common though - <i>luxurious packaging</i> and it shows.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Let's get into it</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Clarins Bright Plus Advanced Brightening Dark Spot-Targeting Serum</u></h3><div><u><br /></u></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="1044" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_t64JbAii3H8Exfb5KSkYfgZA4FR_-DERA2IwiutyVWbESN4sPJclRmIxLNrmqCCMPe9qvOr7NFgqTKQr-IO-WZa3fMEf2L5pB7K2xWRuo5oL8rePDkn6ItIJbZ22TdWzxBRtJ7mbSf7MpEvqVsit3nt0y4vnGOfoc6Xp6sEoBuIySAj3thVySJD/s16000/Clarins-Bright-Plus.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>While this didn't get rid of my dark spots (especially not with one bottle), there were other benefits to it that I consider more important. After all, we all know that with consistent care, dark spots do fade over time.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What Clarins says about it</b></div><blockquote><div>A powerful fast-absorbing serum that visibly brightens, helps revive dull skin, and targets dark spots caused by pollution, harmful UV rays, and blemishes. The advanced formula infused with superfruit extracts—new Rose-myrtle and Acerola Cherry seed, best known for its high potency in vitamin C—visibly brightens, boosts radiance, and helps reveal a more even skin tone.</div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We've seen what it is supposed to do, now let's get into what it did do for me</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2lTrm46ccNFT1hH7gdI0jGy0-zYMIfTKJesBtClb-AbNwKbY-XnkbmH7VoksUkzAD39h_1bbtix5p_pC8g5W_L_r916uCMU9nJ065vQLorTY_rDi_oZ9lN-Magr-dQMIcjuwSKh5enAg1q6aII41ddzAGRoovY4dxEzZdcOY8RBivWBcDmQtMHdY_/s16000/Clarins-Bright-Plus-info.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0D6pGm3SQt6c8OkPg_S77Ifmv9bypsgmE-boBSWneM8qM83vlNoIGpssdWOFYwE1NWik_-d4KaHLqVF2oQoMlu230_utfo3eraYpn2QjazMC4gwxfe3SMeEvjOw5bmavAesFJ45vRSs8Vr2amQJtl-VxOWK0NW9_d3nYRuXAEQSfXcTBgTXex6AtC/s16000/Clarins-Bright-Plus-applicator.jpg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>It moisturised my skin and helped to hydrate it. Skin that is dehydrated is unable to fully absorb the products you put on it. At the point where I was, I needed a lot of hydration and moisture and this serum was able to do that</li><li>It helped me to build a healthy skincare routine. I had the products, but I wasn't consistent with them. Having an expensive, luxury skincare product in my arsenal was an absolute plus and there was no way I was going to abandon it like I had most of the other products I had. </li><li>There is the instant luminous effect it gives the skin although I daresay it isn't long-lasting but it is there regardless.</li></ol></div><div><br /></div>I do like the packaging of this product and how cute and small it is. It makes it handy and easy to carry around when travelling. The applicator though, is so innovative because I noticed that if I had to squeeze, a lot of times, my fingers are too slippery and the process is less than satisfactory. With this, I just press down the lead of the bottle and press down again to release the product into my hands.<div><br /></div><div><i>I'm lowkey thinking of putting another serum product into this bottle because of how convenient the bottle and applicator are.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><u>Clarins Double Serum Light Texture</u></h3><div><br /></div><div>The Clarins Double Serum is a classic. Being 36 years old is no mean feat for a skincare product that is still trusted all over. However, for the brand to release - a light texture version of this classic, there is a reason and it is definitely in response to requests from customers as well. <b><i>Clarins listens.</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><img border="0" data-original-height="1162" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtMptls5Np3m8_CkSv5UD7nLZrHFq1gJXDKHyjIIoLqYzeFpc9UnJmnX9D4YoNFQvKsU9WueFfy5oFd7-XVt4BqG5AFDdUsKZWrNHhSo_UPHY6GYjfnq0fT-BPPGpDU-Btwz5OTx5CYasBa8eLZu7E-g9ONVUHHJxZ-gxo44ROr9pzLCr47KoGMP0f/s16000/Clarins-Double-Serum-light-texture.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>I haven't ever tried the Clarins Double Serum but I've read tons of reviews about it and had high expectations of the Clarins Double Serum Light Texture when I received it in the mail. </div><div><br /></div><div>First, let's see <b>What Clarins says about it </b></div><div><blockquote>Our worldwide bestselling anti-aging serum* now also in a lightweight texture great for oily skin and those living in warm or humid climates. Formulated with the same 21 potent plant extracts—including age-defying Turmeric—this two in one serum visibly firms, smoothes, and boosts skin’s radiance in just 7 days.** Performance that goes further in decoding the language of youth to address all visible signs of skin aging.</blockquote></div><div>Now, let's get on to what this product actually does but first, <b><u>why the hype?</u></b></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div>The Clarins Double Serum light texture has been formulated to be 70% lighter than the classic double serum which is thicker. However, it is interesting to note the science behind this product.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1156" data-original-width="1259" height="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbFJ_-G3vAjO-mLRd6vWHIkz7NsrWyE6quuLr1LDwnS5T2ljeGKXNkdF51qYBCpBXbWj7OsBCDmCO2l7MlNVc3KHeBjz-H5S74rZaqimz8_Gr689iaOP08jI4yMrbILcFR4euQmo0WFncZgHB-IkggakpEZJbNWBQqmHx2_FKNfrhxsrSBwl8bPneXch0/w357-h329/Clarins%20Double%20Serum%20light%20texture%20formulation.PNG" width="357" /></div>According to Clarins, the Double Serum is a mix of water and oil which mimics the water:oil formulation of the skin. For every pump of Double Serum, the water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients combine together to create a formula that instantly absorbs into the skin and creates the results we want to see. In the Light Texture, this formulation is now 70% lighter for faster absorption into the skin.</div><div><br /></div><div>Since it is a serum and I didn't exactly know what to expect in terms of the product texture, I had initially pinned it down as the usual sticky serum formula <i>(especially as it was sent to me as a sort of replacement and improvement on the Clarins Bright Plus). </i>But I was pleasantly surprised. It feels like water, just an itsy bitsy bit thicker. It is not sticky at all and once applied on the skin, the palms feel as if there was nothing there in the first place. </div><div><br /></div><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCfmwciKamJNQNxVmFYLD9_F2WzRhusNARJg4bfnbXEOkKMQCVzdryFflCSRGVWX5nL9n7ZFrPx8Nmx-1EBMjbPqLQy6QvASmQmOn1owcrYzb3_RVU8fdlOQh4ECVuiwAdCRRoWszSageDuDdxQu1q2ZkM1Q273mc9pL8vOuhJvHhA2p_gvojG2TJB/s16000/Clarins-Double-Serum-light-texture-4.jpg" title="Clarins Double Serum Light Texture on skin" /><br /><div><br /></div><div>Asides, from the formulation, the Clarins Double Serum Light Texture has a unique applicator which helps to dispense the serum according to the quantity your skin needs - little or double. The top of the bottle has 2 teardrops which indicate where to twist the cap in order to get the desired quantity.</div><div><br /></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqbPALkFx2WuGcA8ri-v7QolgArwqVB_2wOFAhn5iJIOAoB7e5gmk5oflE9997m5LMFw4wLs54K1gaNG8nPSSwpNVIEOEvtR4rO5KQixfMGbD3JU1hDQlH_jHdFWK5g89MlgPdhjYiKJsJju5TGn9NgNbgQUE_1PMd5SmaVG1R1A4_LmNKZfbL42L/s16000/Clarins-Double-Serum-light-texture-applicator.jpg" /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="929" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXorcxnfUT2PpDy9MAGyZjgg_TNjhX_xo1XVP2K4I78w_KOXJ1r5xo5epZXFD9OayD_pkhI7TVx6xmMf9vnIwwvfl8WC0bLuGTTcQFH3lIGuCC7p4HNntYIfly5NcL_TI1tUuefWSgRudNQHMSgyVc1N5Lk_-xq1veMhoyRrnuYJ2_pTOkOCSl1pHX/s16000/Clarins-Double-Serum-light-texture-2.jpg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A further look through the bottle shows the innovative chamber split to ensure the desired product quantity is dispensed. This eliminates wastage and ensures maximum product use. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For a combination skin girl like me, I really liked that this serum made </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>My skin feel fresh, plump and look brighter and hydrated</li><li>My moisturiser feel better when applied over the serum</li><li>Makeup application a breeze and I could use less product too</li></ol><div>If you can afford it, I would definitely recommend the Clarins Double Serum Light Texture as an everyday hydrating serum. Who knows how glasslike and absolutely gorgeous my skin would be looking right now if only I could afford to continue using this daily <i>*le sigh*</i></div><div><br /></div><div>Ever used any of these serums or any Clarins serum at all? What are your thoughts?</div><div><br /></div></div><p></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-19373233227034698252023-06-17T02:10:00.001+01:002023-06-17T02:11:34.739+01:003 Easy Ways to Rock The BlackUp No Transfer Kohl Waterproof Pencil<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf2PJAjHwj2_HhLvngQHNmK9Iv1H7ygyNLdIt_MDRNWG1y-ZFoFG2HdfAVoeuyuoNq-AdiY-PKktNZDDrth4wWX7DETBBQS8Ir-mT9L9e8oI1fur3LJ25SHDZjz4H28qESmJCz2TytvdLvHfDj2aww4hgrEMEDzudWeBaM_IOLxfkNUZe4zCC2sgwe/s16000/Black-up-kohl-pencil.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Being a lover of vintage fashion and some vintage beauty techniques, it is safe to say that I love colour. When it comes to my makeup though, I'm a bit more cautious with it than I am with my clothes. I rarely splash colour on my face because I believe that makeup should be an extension and an enhancement of your natural beauty and not make you look like a totally different person. <div><br /></div><div>This is the reason why when I'm faced with a colour makeup product like eyeshadow, pencil, blush or even lipstick, I try to think up a hundred ways to wear it, <i>literally.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>That's exactly what I did when I received the <u><b>BlackUp No Transfer Kohl Waterproof pencil</b></u> in a PR package...I figured out a couple of ways to wear it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are 3 ways I found to wear it:</div><div><br /></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Eyeliner: </b>we all love the classic winged liner look but how about trying it with a coloured pencil? Genius! It gives the eyes the kind of pop that a regular black winged liner look can't. The best part is that this look can absolutely be rocked very, very alone or paired with eyeshadow for extra pizzazz.</li><li><b>Graphic Liner: </b>I've always been too shy to wear a graphic look on my eyes but the graphic liner look is another perfect way to rock the BlackUp No Transfer Kohl Waterproof pencil. It won't move, it won't budge and will definitely be a struggle to take off cos it wants to be there all day and into the night, <i>lol.</i></li><li><b>Waterline Liner: </b>for those like me who like to wear what I term 'discreet colour' on their eyes, this is the perfect way to wear the BlackUp Kohl Pencil. Because of the absolute colour pop, the look isn't so discreet, but it's not as loud as the other 2 options so I wear this style more than the others. It's also perfect for day wear whereas the others are more for outing purposes.</li></ol><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2633" data-original-width="1974" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4K2DvEgGDzz5NLNUNmOxKE6-9b4dwG-kNuHV15CtJOEwCihA4yrD4dnZhRwtgpJCJdHVcSVv2ylSodDv3hTwPpolYc0ONUeFJFRRXbqVx-mYrQ2zjtxhiY-o-OXj46JLyjwKWSeKzOm1Nu2lTrEETsqKe78UzHDI_3PyIYhVvFHBkUzxyYq9mYD5N/s16000/BlackUp%20Kohl%20pencil.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Although I received the pencil in a vibrant blue colour, I bet that all the shades of this pencil are just as gorgeous and just as pigmented as this one.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF0nE6Sl8HeWLq5UCZ1KJ205k-0sneNesJPODSgFH0VKKSK724viVk3reUYZC7LNS0cY1jpWDPXP2EpFoiAYvjrDLPHx1GIX0FnUo1zBbqHzNtwHXzrwvy23IYcFJQdo3GsNSkM6UsQSuoxXB6HRnqclBO5ZTXOxrLUKWJAk-ynQzeyJktj9wIeQNQ/s16000/Black-up-kohl-pencil-3.jpg" /><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPG7Pl0W-GNIN1VHQ7oNOGMW_2765zNXzyFSDzAy4JorNf9BoZ3gs_B5YzRk1h5WTebC414-ByUJ_QKY-k8xchbOiFsvtnPYnHaYzelxhxRPCbKO0lYmd6h5XhVVX1X1eKf7yWGZomHt4ht8AoYJWESCc66MdKPjp7f1iMoWoe3RWIM9tYWzWLoQH/s16000/Black-up-kohl-pencil-2.jpg" /></div> </div><div>How would you wear it if you didn't want to choose from any of the above 3 ways I rock this pencil?</div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-72146660067860612812023-06-16T02:21:00.002+01:002023-06-16T02:21:56.225+01:005 Products in the Ewami Way of Life. The Ewami Essential Mini Series Pack of 5<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1543" data-original-width="1543" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0-q7dSGm-zdw6wnzyJMn884zJd0pSzDtBcJqNc8G97dFx8O-4xDex47vn5iRVE1Yps6DGqhMHbBepN-5OwoUFlJe11aFOXZLCsgsBEmmpGIz7TZqrDxxFy-QzqaYCFyv5QDKzFCWb9vowKHASyyvmCf_0mnhTfqk9QHkPahR0aCq2zkJjYHNiZK3N/s16000/20220824_113625.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div>If you have watched even one episode of my IG Reels series <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/productsimlovingnow/">Products I'm Loving Now</a>, </b>then you already know that some of these have been featured in that series and it was such a long time ago, <i>lol. </i> I owe you an apology for only just coming round to review the entire Ewami Skincare minis I purchased.<div><br /></div><div>Before we dive into a review of the 5 products, let's first check out what the series episode on <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ewamiessentials_/" target="_blank">Ewami Essentials</a></b> was about</div><div><br /></div><div><br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Choavn8DVGW/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 3px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px 0px 1px 0px, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15) 0px 1px 10px 0px; margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0px; width: calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding: 16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Choavn8DVGW/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 0; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0px;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0px auto 12px; width: 50px;"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g fill-rule="evenodd" fill="none" stroke-width="1" stroke="none"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0px;"></div> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px;"><div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12.5px; margin-left: 2px; margin-right: 14px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px); width: 12.5px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style="border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); border-top: 2px solid transparent; height: 0px; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg); width: 0px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="border-right: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); transform: translateY(16px); width: 0px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; transform: translateY(-4px); width: 16px;"></div> <div style="border-left: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); height: 0px; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px); width: 0px;"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Choavn8DVGW/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by B A R B A R A | The Corporate Creative (@barbara1923)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div><div><br /></div><div>As you can see, I didn't talk about all the products in the minis collection, but in this post you are in for a treat because I'll be sharing the pros and cons of all 5 of Ewami products which I would say are the foundation of any and every good skincare routine, no matter how basic that routine is.</div><div><br /></div><div>Let us begin</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Ewami Body Wash</h3><div>Every great skincare routine begins first with <u style="font-style: italic;">Cleanse</u>. </div><div><br /></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGc3JdBeztlATczYKnsS2BTUoY5JVkn7YJQbduNtyi-1vr3-aFP6a-MVMWKzlxpLK-C1njIl7z8lLk1EnbUrfbjfKJw1-YyV1UE9EXYg_g5a7AAPIEPwVHwl3xFKA_4hE5nWKxYqbFGu_MVjm8lF4r6FXeSQkzC08scbD6F4CtQy5EvAnNRhfXA-J/s16000/20220824_113757.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Starting off with the Body Wash, you will notice it didn't feature in the <b>PILN</b> video because I didn't love it at all. </div><div><br /></div><div>The first thing about this mini version is the fact that the product didn't come out. It is supposed to be a squeeze bottle but it's either the product was too thick or the hole too small or the bottle too hard. I skipped all that by unscrewing the cap entirely and pouring the product into my hand.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then it hit me, the strong, sticky sweet smell. </div><div>If you know me, then you know I'm not a fan of strong smells in the bathroom. For perfumes, yes. But for cleansing products, no thank you.</div><div><br /></div><div>The product lathers well, but that is as far as I got before I gave it to someone else to use on my behalf.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Ewami Refresh & Balance Toner</h3><div>This was my first experience of spraying product on my face and I absolutely loved it.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtkzidL2cuXluW4yGOMob0tzNriPBQhehNdkSUf_9ZFOt_RGaPfp0x4pN8jw3fW2AeT8OSkTax8Y1qgDEIcZ1CO0zjn-9Dg94veRsQ1fEV-8dGsriip8CIFU8j2HaBfJyRTil0cuL17pORw3B6fFDk70hPwzW1uxznu35nZDtXRNcd2v_7a4wBXXUp/s16000/20220824_113724.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div>This toner is everything it says it is. It is refreshing and hydrating. I can spray it on my face continuously <i>(maybe that's even why it finished quickly). </i></div><div><br /></div><div>At the time of using this product, I had grown used to applying drops of toner directly to my palm and pressing into my face so this was a big change from that for me. I had tried spraying it into my palm and still pressing it into my skin, but it didn't quite turn out right so I determined that I was going to try and get used to spraying it. </div><div><br /></div><div>I had to use like 5 spritzes to cover my entire face and then I would use my hands to press it into my skin. This toner really does refresh and soothe and calm the skin. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Ewami Clarifying Body Oil</h3><div>If there was ever an example of 'lightweight' oil, this is it.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeKQpuBaCrd88RsI5sPMV1yL-Wm-REnSUzy9-2mqNB5dSaLg76wpX_EjxTr8ley2FV2kM8N8tvPnv1fo8cxQaKGiWVOhVW1DgR6EjGuuJ2KLvLZQqhnPVftRsUyEla6jhcjrJPASg4392Y7ltT45UbsBcCYjzQg32Rkg9B2qb4Gy4S4fCKGP8Zok_/s16000/20220824_113742.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div>I love this body oil!</div><div>I just thought we should establish that first, <i>lol.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>While another brand had the not-so-pleasant task of weaning me onto body oils, I think this Ewami body oil stole my heart with its super lightweight formula and fragrance. I really loved using this product and was sad when it finished. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is amazing how no matter how dry your skin is after leaving it to dry after a bath, this oil can still be applied smoothly without the usual oil or body butter struggle experienced with other brands. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Ewami Claire Mask</h3><div>I should show you a video first</div><div><br /></div><div>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ci1yNOGjFvv/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 3px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px 0px 1px 0px, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15) 0px 1px 10px 0px; margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0px; width: calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding: 16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ci1yNOGjFvv/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 0; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0px;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0px auto 12px; width: 50px;"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g fill-rule="evenodd" fill="none" stroke-width="1" stroke="none"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0px;"></div> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px;"><div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12.5px; margin-left: 2px; margin-right: 14px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px); width: 12.5px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style="border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); border-top: 2px solid transparent; height: 0px; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg); width: 0px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="border-right: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); transform: translateY(16px); width: 0px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; transform: translateY(-4px); width: 16px;"></div> <div style="border-left: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); height: 0px; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px); width: 0px;"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ci1yNOGjFvv/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by B A R B A R A | The Corporate Creative (@barbara1923)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQpf2mPzQt28LzgbEOG7HbrrcSsZhYmr-hIB79jdwm785exNRHpr3EjxQ7-Uu-JnUpPuyZ9KHclPxdgdtTMDiuBnkFHR5fzAL6bJj30OuRAqRptKweGWUR8rTUhvLRx_4WUzPl-XeQE-wgJKxRymi-9JsJ1bwy-OGmTSZ4Qeq5TE9NiOZDXUzEHTh/s16000/20220824_113827.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div>I think this face mask scarred me, but I'm still willing to give face masks, in general, a try. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm certain there are no exaggerations here but the fact that the mask literally stained everywhere put me off and I wasn't enthusiastic about trying it again. </div><div><br /></div><div>Like I said in the video, it did give an initial nice feeling on the face after wash off, but since I haven't tried it again after that, I'll stop right here.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Ewami Micro Polish</h3><div>I really think you should check out my extensive <a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2023/05/body-scrubs-are-they-real-deal-or-nah.html" target="_blank">body scrubs review</a> to fully understand my thoughts about this product</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQFln2yy8vIY6EAiJLqI19NPlR1nopK0DQoMyCUPq3Kib_0WLezDB6xLKbPDNTDXI22YSZrOqCJj9N1Rdes58ng-BXPanwIXAOWQF7wyBSE5Mo6eXyJDk8W8-b0MGmwYwiu0nH9yCky601dRfenGtWQMyCWQtRbiqMQph0iNOJygqDB9pXQapdsCn/s16000/20220824_113837.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div>Apart from the weird application style best suited to it, I'm still undecided as to the final results after usage. This is keeping in mind the fact that although tiny, the granules can somewhat be harsh on the skin. </div><div><br /></div><div>I definitely wouldn't recommend this for people with sensitive skin. Considering how similar it is to a micro-dermabrasion treatment, I'm actually not surprised because they also tend to be harsh to the skin sometimes too.</div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, the Ewami Essentials Mini Series Pack of 5 is a solid 2.5/5 with the micro-polish being the .5 in this equation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Do you agree with me?<br /> <p></p></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-76689080864625142382023-06-15T01:13:00.003+01:002023-06-15T01:17:29.211+01:00Uncovering my Skin with Uncover Rooibos Glow Toner & Aloe Invisible Sunscreen <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPNELYTxb3QZO0eG642743ZrbaBf6URVf_KLOjRFXZQazUTmtZ8NQ2nVOr5UcvQKx5LBgQvV1CF8xlabzfR2ckXQZZ51kHi6LQJpPONZF2EEM-CZdhsYMsyIbHoO3zSXwfK1bi3lBs7BXI6ZpE1blhQNsQxAdGJAKaj67WqBRLM-fQOcIj_rUGhHt/s16000/Uncover-sunscreen-and-toner-review.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The first time I heard about Uncover Skincare was at Beauty West Africa 2022. I attended with my friend Funke Tonye Preghafi of Blot Cosmetics and she went through the maze of booths looking for Uncover. We got to the stand and met Jade Oyateru, a Co-Founder and the COO. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That was the first time I heard about Uncover Skincare.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But I loved the bright packaging and there is nothing better than skincare for Africans by an African. There was also the infusion of K-Beauty techniques into the product and with the popularity of Asian beauty products fueled by their effectiveness, there didn't seem like a better time for such a brand. Jade told Funke and me that the brand would be launching in Nigeria in 2023 and we both looked forward to it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_K1YgnqRtz_JohI50QdI3crjJyPZgvllFiuUo62mlVlWwX6m0bMgalZkCd-WQhuEN6xdApPlhLWYpyhhepqCgu4GUxFODvDW6bWn6-ZZiNy8TWb7-YNIJd8yX_UDlx4u8nb-OvjYME3CTmi2dMW0ZZhRkWiFv6zZypnaQMWsEKm8zhArVxGw8LQgF/s16000/uncover-k-beauty.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When the brand launched in Nigeria, I was in need of toner and decided to purchase the <a href="https://uncoverskincare.ng/product/rooibos-glow-toner/">Uncover Skincare Rooibos Toner</a> for myself. Not too long after, I received the <a href="https://uncoverskincare.ng/product/aloe-invisible-sunscreen/">Uncover Skincare Aloe Invisible Sunscreen</a> in a PR package.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZNevC8oVSveSc7ySrfWK27ijHKhl6yG8yzw-P3TXx6kMnnzKcAXGDGc39n75xsR-iqLCiyrDghcv1M4-mO_xoX1DUusI6gsVw3WaicX0SBzsqi169DmhBZvvf1osZyps3TExstl75Jq2x0uf_5mHXelRbVg-GyA8Cq3cwJYmplQX115w4NHWSF0D1/s16000/Uncover-sunscreen-and-toner.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh51h9dl5pQua8MiZhPFdqfyRDOJYhqzi8ahQ7htSWqIxo3rMWSCwizfUHeongit2wgaMYQq88jACoV9rdgLCQU05_aquXkHpOEkhWxS8tE8y8r4SvqWYyYwEttIkrmTQagn4S2bvUKMLoFQN-YCqUhZ10mOTAezC0XAWJnk4Mjm07DBtWjQRXmM6mB/s16000/Uncover-sunscreen-and-toner-2.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Uncover Rooibos Glow Toner</u></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was the first Uncover skincare product I tried because I really needed a toner. I was still in the early stages of my aesthetician-recommended skincare routine so this was more important to me at the time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAzBBr7pIrxu5UIVmyaL3aILwez2L28sqTeAlj-FIojH-F0S145oWV82aBgma1bgeQrWyKnXyghGKiLtcf14MlkZtJ6YWcJbqPsqlxhGGi56vxepyoXnFiVucRFI7iKAaJmT5kYOakyFmEZOahnbp0hoXCzq-modQ_Kd6lJneGY34E8Xx1QXnaNbWo/s16000/uncover-rooibos-toner.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZrhUsDoKRsuw6OMGIxCw4_1GyLRzVzsUgmIaMIl4to4sDKRTTfRaJU-UILa87yDoOsZzLXk4AKwN5KfmF5VIgG_SN0InKT839sPM_awmk8eg0fQxKreIZ-cR_yVZPgHfda1q82RkUWmHFAbtM6-Akr1LNmxyZcjEUsTFA0sCGQ6KwwtgXFUwPHf3/s16000/uncover-rooibos-glow-toner.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvM7wTEPyJo9IytwV0cUvGoyrWmziQ7tfFOsoYxxFIP7v3UMnDUcT3hrVzXZZds0piIcZd4wl8IWZyCr1_Jj0BDb9zLWnRDpVuLvnp83SOf_Irq5GbW3hybhkCnKak9-6e_mazK7cFZHwK6CftgzKMxTk01lMD73XHCQVg8OK5XQNP24Nd5psWWnRG/s16000/uncover-toner.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div>What Uncover says about it <div><b></b></div><blockquote><div><b>Rebalancing, gentle exfoliating toner</b></div><div>This daily toner is infused with 1% PHA, Hyaluronic Acid, Kombucha and African Rooibos Leaf Extract to protect the skin barrier by balancing skin pH.</div></blockquote><div></div><div><span style="color: #343a40;">Being a newbie to an intense skincare routine, this was a bit of a new experience for me and my first time using an alcohol-free toner. I didn't know what to expect. Over time, it became clear to me that this toner is </span></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>perfect for new entrants into the skincare game - like I was at the time</li><li>great for sensitive skin</li><li>the toner to use when you absolutely need to use a toner but have some bruises on your skin from a pinched pimple or a scratch or things like that. With Hyaluronic acid, the bruise is certain to heal quickly with less likelihood of a scar</li></ul></div><div>With prolonged use, the exfoliating benefits and hyperpigmentation-eliminating qualities of the toner are sure to come through.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><u>Uncover Aloe Invisible Sunscreen</u></h3><div>I like to call this product <b>'The Star of the Party'</b></div><div><br /></div><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdmviZNaSdMrkTbk5HTWDoAGquv6EHUQOKBdBo_cL4y11x3I7UrLgAVEFLjueumRxNaYicT2wxGJeOxXqIrXNFunqQkjZgkb98McCsNezkrw33xMaGxh-N0_xb2jjbKFWm2j7DZIT6Y0qeDNG2xvBkNpgiBgPaJm3KYq3-kLh6BNw0IPnmjL3mEIZ/s16000/uncover-sunscreen.jpg" /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHlrHPTX7srT3revhI011esoQ1jZwnMmB9GxPGOwMeDahifDua1X70DvxO3n0D_AJRcMbiK7d1uKWFYOIPs9FgA6qd2fftoAJTxk6TV1qufrjxScIMKLvAB4DhWzUg2EMaQ0_ISmlUxQ7SPUzf4e6TlHDixYcBsUPsQm9S0FHF6qaXnl94H5ivr3W/s16000/uncover-sunscreen-2.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRf4nIQnI0lOSATcZnlCny7GW3MiGMY3-l1c-KhV8kNrCJOCXfxCPNQT0u-mYUiAXuAJuZu597yaAH6UemiXQ0oiXqyFGQ7OuiOuIoYSNmbxkKqzlxkvouNs36R76_IWNLzaDqTzNhxBcqnjr9f0GYyfX3vWKeqJNjHuvdH_M2DciSZP7I-y9ASFq/s16000/Uncover-aloe-invisible-sunscreen.jpg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What Uncover says about it </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #343a40;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><blockquote>No white cast, lightweight SPF 50+ sunscreen infused with Hyaluronic Acid and African Aloe Vera, perfect for daily use.</blockquote></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The brand description is definitely an undersell for the product in my opinion. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With a single application, the very first and one of the most defining sunscreen qualities is seen and felt when using this product and that is <i style="font-weight: bold;"><u>the non-greasy finish</u>. </i>The majority of sunscreen products in the market have a greasy, shiny finish which inhibits sunscreen usage amongst people with oily skin. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>I have been recommending this product to every single person I know who has an issue with the greasy finish of sunscreen products and even purchased it for a colleague very recently.</i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The pros of the Uncover Aloe Sunscreen far outweigh whatever cons there may be and that's why I went ahead to post this on Instagram</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p></div>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cs6VYxgOlvS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 3px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px 0px 1px 0px, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15) 0px 1px 10px 0px; margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0px; width: calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding: 16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cs6VYxgOlvS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 0; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; 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font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0px;"></div> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px;"><div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12.5px; margin-left: 2px; margin-right: 14px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px); width: 12.5px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style="border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); border-top: 2px solid transparent; height: 0px; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg); width: 0px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="border-right: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); transform: translateY(16px); width: 0px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; transform: translateY(-4px); width: 16px;"></div> <div style="border-left: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); height: 0px; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px); width: 0px;"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cs6VYxgOlvS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by B A R B A R A | The Corporate Creative (@barbara1923)</a></p></div></blockquote><p>I will be honest and say that while the Toner is not a deal breaker for me and I may not necessarily re-purchase, the Sunscreen is a definite item on my skincare list that will continue to be recommended and re-purchased time and time again. The Uncover Sunscreen is a definite 10/10.</p><p><br /></p><p>Which Uncover Skincare products have you used and which ones will you be re-purchasing? </p> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-63820562799293402322023-06-09T15:40:00.002+01:002023-06-09T15:45:28.294+01:00Self-Love is Self-Care. How to Make Sure You Prioritise YOU!<p style="text-align: center;"> <img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="4512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUDfOOmyhQ6YxDtp4sTEXOVv7ZOiHP5Fx7vA-KTRYF0umwgl93g-DytQnXrD7iNMYXnfNJqlICiEVlDicgMlUjJsRoBVZPDBdUbSYrasBeXoMGSfqs3Wso69JSSFeZ9h0H9wN2Xyc_Jk86NePU8SqEHZEammeyE4cWa5Opv9xKkvPcdhbUZ8QntCut/s16000/spi-n-paint-The-Dew-centre.jpg" /></p><div style="text-align: left;">I think I inherited it from my Mum but I have a habit of not thinking of myself first. When I have some extra cash or extra time or extra anything....<i>and I'm not even a wife or mother yet.</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">Recently, I decided to change that a little. Think of myself more, then think of my family and others. It manifested itself in a different way and I'll tell you some of the ways I started showing love to myself. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>7 Ways To Prioritise 'YOU'</u></h2><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Have A Gratitude Journal </h3><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I will admit that when it comes to journaling, I haven't been the best, but when I do put my mind to it, I am forced to think about the positives that have happened. It keeps me grounded and I have a chance to ponder on the things that have happened, the ways divine favour has opened doors for me, the connections I've made as a result of an introduction or a joint project, the opportunities that have presented themselves before me and so many more. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><br /></u></div><div style="text-align: left;">A lot of times I think having a gratitude journal might be over-rated but when I think of it in the context of having to take notes at meetings because I may forget the important points shared; I think about how writing down the things I am grateful for keeps me grounded in a gratitude mindset and I don't lose track of how GOD manifests in a variety of ways daily on my behalf. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Renew Your Prayer Life</h3><div><br /></div><div>During the pandemic I cultivated a healing prayer routine that helped re-energise not just my spirit but my body and soul as well. </div><div><br /></div><div>Let me walk you through it: I'd wake up at 6am daily, pray and read my Bible for 30mins, then I would check on all my brand posts, social media and email updates for the day (I would absolutely NOT pick up my phone until after my prayer time - regardless of how many call or messages came in), shower and then start my day. </div><div><br /></div><div>It made me feel invincible. The phrase <b>A prayerless Christian is a powerless Christian</b> comes alive when I stick to this routine. Back in 2020, there were so many things that happened during the WFH period that I literally breezed through because I had started my day by committing it to GOD. </div><div><br /></div><div>Prayer for me truly is a part of Self-love.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Me first - my savings, my investments, my needs</h3><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Being money smart I have discovered is not selfish, it is not being stingy or being irresponsible. Being money smart is a kind of self-love and is even a form of independence in order to save ones self from being a burden to others. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Previously, all my earnings were spent on fulfilling my financial responsibilites to everyone else apart from myself and it always made me a bit resentful because when I needed financial assistance, I couldn't get it. It seemed as if I was subject to the whims of others. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But now, I have a percentage of EVERY income saved & invested <i>(yes, I have investments that have failed, but it doesn't mean I won't keep investing)</i>. My budget has Savings & investments accounted for and I stick to it. Even when my account is in the red, I don't feel bad or sad or frustrated, because I know what I used it for. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">4. Celebrate the small wins</h3><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I never used to know how to 'hype' myself. I would achieve things and treat them as common or ordinary, I underestimated myself and I wasn't my own biggest or loudest hype woman. This led to a lot of impostor syndrome which almost drowned me and even began to look like inferiority complex.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I had to let go of it.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I learned to praise myself - whether I added weight or lost, whether I failed or succeeded <i>(especially when I succeeded)</i>, when I got something right at work or was looking gorgeous that day. I celebrated them all. This helped to boost my confidence in myself and in my ability to get it done. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">5. Pursue my Passions & Happiness</h3><div><br /></div><div>There is something that always happens when you put others first, you never put yourself next and never first again. Not because you don't want to, but because there is no room. When you put others first, then all your dreams, desires, passions and the things that matter to you automatically take a back seat. </div><div><br /></div><div>This automatically leads to resentment, mood swings, frustration and even angry outbursts. You don't understand why, no one understands why, you are angry all the time and you end up retreating into a shell of self-pity and telling yourself no one cares about you but only about what you can do for them.</div><div><br /></div><div>But you never told them what you wanted. I never actually spoke up and communicated what I wanted. The moment I decided that I came first and everyone needed to know what I wanted and the things that would make me happy, there was no turning back and there was obstacle in my path.</div><div><br /></div><div>The first step was to first acknowledge the things I wanted, the next step was to speak up about it and the final and most important was to act on them.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">6. Thrash Relationships that Drain & Don't Replenish</h3><div><br /></div><div>This is self-explanatory - get rid of relationships that drain you and use you. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you ever listened to my podcast The Speaking About Podcast, you'll have heard about one of these relationships of mine and how it made a dent in my personality, my confidence and who I am as a person. </div><div><br /></div><div>I grew my emotional intelligence and learned to analyse my emotions in a relationship. This helped me greatly and I was able to understand my place in the relationships I was in. I separated the relationships - the ones for business, for work, for emotional benefit, for growth and so on. This segmentation made it easy for me to invest the required energy necessary and to totally get rid of the ones that didn't benefit me in any way.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">7. Give myself feedback</h3><div><br /></div><div>As a leader at work, I give my team feedback all the time. I tell them when they have done something good or bad or when they need to review something, grow or improve in a particular area. </div><div><br /></div><div>As difficult as this is, I had to learn to do this same thing for myself. At the end of every day, or week or even in the middle of the workday, I have a mental conversation with myself and tell myself how I could have done it better or pat myself on the back. </div><div><br /></div><div>It helps because no one knows me better than myself. Even when others share feedback, I mentally dissect the feedback and apply any and every part that is for my benefit without holding any of it back. </div><div><br /></div><div>These are the 7 ways I've learned to show myself self-love and make myself first. </div><div><br /></div><div>Trust me, it isn't a bad thing to put yourself first. It makes you happy and it's easier to be of assistance or be a backbone to others when you are happy with yourself.</div><div><br /></div><div>The below pictures are from Mrs. Adesuwa Onyenokwe's 59th birthday event when I was just starting work as the Online Editor of TW Magazine. The entire event was a huge lesson in self-care and self-love and I did meet new people too. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="4512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHuz6dp84qKQaUrXrs0vt3gWzh-8XCZXBAMJ9Pmpna3Yytu7KnCCDGYIlfQiaVSF11_PIULf2qt0Sux1Nu7JqPSkqTxU2croauSt2zuFnqXqKfS8CNboUvzz7m58Y6XuTxPGE-jDabJJn8FQmlUT5IKvp4f0nvQ0iPxBF_UUmg1ZHUUBOalLKaDyA/s16000/self-love-sip-n-paint.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2809" data-original-width="4214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3lvq9FX-eCL--QJfU77Il0A1UlkUyyQSV8Wpk4_tmgBjG1VhoDicvBbMRjL5__bP-mT8h_Cni4teVq6pLyviZUJK9ehq8DKDaD250WaUu64dSNOiPNYl0O-48GXn7orYkgGU-73QE8WJ3jPVOa448IISDQ1Eq_KpY6XMytgFK4MVMnCMBOnE5vy99/s16000/self-care-the-dew-centre-eki-ogunbor.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="4512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUG8YJdPkuqk6xnssadSPhY5aFeCY1YA0ucEzLrZI5dwXxWjOWfxlh-p3bZraNbkcOlo6SGp8Bn3qM5ra42pgO_jHNOr_Q6AvEE7psR9bsB7U0IKP1wQoaSdVpNntQi1tA8JmR47V-TBsYS7mM9HpolUKO3qDX9r1TbSfBwaTanP4VZAxye0FDUBto/s16000/self-care-prioritise-self.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2768" data-original-width="4152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIawj769EuOlsyA-yK2nwcq58cGxY5gp-979I8qRO6SOhqKrtaCDCuvVFfYi53O_9v9JMrcja_AuWQFkMqEHtjzFiqKOzGe8hlhTy1qYDZmJCadCneSqHi9YM9-O7aFYuuMRbZlqogn1HzbWe9uHBblRhPdCgwVZpRGiToBn1Hosn0zZAckehVHdv0/s16000/self-care-prioritise-self-4.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2718" data-original-width="4078" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBS84SMQiAPhK4rLii6oCG18HN_fzflTEwRUWrU1FRdn0s7pOmFlg-LTl9W7xF0f9H0pcVddcLwL2Wg8s0aP9aB-SL4EwOc46zDimAypdHsXiSf3fDqUrcGVJaqb2Oy3gCBLKmctRSC-XYKW5LoP1tN69DViiECczucgq5DT9EmRgia3halMhYewC/s16000/self-care-prioritise-self-3.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="4512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltU-WYBeaXj0IaPB1mbFyZ-u9DNZzYUKntD1g96M-wBfOMRkEnN0dKWohfMQMNq7VaBla835V_IveEQzsIb1KqgOo4MSoPRACtuUJGUCOHcS1B3glmjzaGOw0vPLeKXeffeBFrseojYnk1_NY9wZfDYoHuS-BLvPK8vktQAQQhbIEoOqsCrLIt2aa/s16000/self-care-prioritise-self-2.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="4512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2YTrba3fUXDY-_C5mP5UVJtDEvrgkK6UoDCqqh3j5gtP2n-_s7K5qa0QLmftVjNOjAsMQDBoFeDc8lT3v1xcIYAwfK5cA6g_lnYWjq3KTFrElHZCo0PLGIEJQB6JtRM02HF2yJMAWXlyAtK1KXdKQKbD-r4Awtlq0-TUwl9go-WDEg1QAY3h_WXrg/s16000/DSC_1024.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2696" data-original-width="4044" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJewrkAEALETjk-F7mAeItlvv8gal7PG229pHc6JBazuCFfL6iAbcatPvRnnPtaDGGoqQg1OrgTHeqm6Jksf37Ne4KuUhpr_8Qb58u1JIwOHIMpNyrRlzhmWstcATBVrPdCb-Lky9lnASE6oq5Shf7nePQpnKIkEzyakvkljTIMX2x8w7gJM0vDSd/s16000/DSC_0872.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3268" data-original-width="2178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5_oBR9u3MAyHRogFUWupc299NmPUvei8mwWsdrYx0zlNtx_kN_tQXlkfbwkeHUO_TjZ4bODJnYMDXfdOu9WEeYrQVslj7jlY-az7-L7Ii8ijo44kFQLvGbhsXe5Ji3_cjr8RjxaCEMotFK0S6A6q6_NU8PtiB-94qUZXIBdWnopGbTWWBQXWNlpk/s16000/DSC_0623.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="4512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibvcoHt9GnQmc-VzDdbNpRahBA3kCrTWneMl1SaW72kT6IArbj9oJPoVUIn1U6Q3Bco_A5Q1qyc6VorHH5hKftkklWv2ymlS30lDec001_BlakTZ8mlo9cF0va3GzFFipGgydQluHXQC0gEO3ASARCk7HvSA04KLFTcbH22OiHqWzZb8g_dGA96Yoa/s16000/DSC_0585.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="4512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0w0FAvdi3Gdd_o6xaC-Isnry7nFA8iVWfs4_MDVi19QWRz7ZL1CL4Fgh52R2st93aBEH2ZiQZNFqyZlZE-GzAR3JT1hpcNpnJr2Td3I6B75KZ77ZtS03Q-uEoUyap9DzWpw-NyzEqH-wLRWx95okEsohoeHiZB68M5vQgRwOSxr41PDJwqyDlKHvh/s16000/DSC_0536.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="4512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GU-hKxS6_z8c0P_WIlpp0Lv47W4-bZ5CJ2ZH2mlF8tINfqkoBEYkcpZxugWj3FC7x0fLMvfCaH0IArdF1Dyi0Zx9u6imRAt16GKLLPQf9kAFyOdlf2Ml9x_otJzOnYlnTQ1nAGsglLzJz8_kh9asDv4Z3JiMBohGnFs9as9nmS9YfpflS5iEL_NQ/s16000/adesuwa-onyenokwe-birthday-omowunmi-akinnifesi.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com31b Adebayo Doherty Rd, Lekki Phase 1 106104, Lagos, Nigeria6.4419220999999993 3.4642074-26.52971854040257 -31.6920426 39.413562740402568 38.6204574tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-81562336554343325172023-05-09T19:39:00.002+01:002023-05-09T19:39:31.852+01:00Body Scrubs. Are They the Real Deal or Nah? A Review of 7 Scrubs<p><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtcvjX9o70t9qcEgwwD-QHF5e6vAa5fls7bSDiRgXLbuvTOr-heFi8hTZz2mgLpRNEgIfijLkVLJz03GylaCluQwaaBAGGDttvmRQS4W1dan25x3S52xCGXzQpJoyAmXv5pIl_6n_rCi_NCu8sYkVJJ6YXW4PljmfcU15D6gG7C8ARWNZ0_T3DVvEC/s16000/Body-scrubs-review-barbara1923.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br /><br /></p><p>Before COVID I was a body scrub hoarder. I didn't know exactly what to do with them when I got them and tried them once or twice for a review. The good thing about scrubs is that they give an instant effect so it is possible to review them after a single or double use. </p><p><br /></p><p>Come 2020, we were all indoors for a really long time and I got a chance to explore my skincare stash a lot more. I dug into my body scrub reservoir and tried out salt scrubs, sugar scrubs and the single coffee scrub I own. </p><p><br /></p><p>Before I share my thoughts on each one of them, here is a universal truth I discovered, <b><u>Body Scrubs make your skin feel as smooth as silk, as soft as butter and glowing like the sun</u></b> <i>(that last one might be an exaggeration but your skin really glows with consistent body scrub usage)</i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p>I had quite a stash and with at least 2 - 3 times a month application, supported by daily exfoliating gloves use, here are my thoughts on the 7 Body Scrub brands I've tried in the past 3 years</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">How I apply Body Scrubs</h3><div>It is important to know how I apply my body scrubs before reading my review of all the 7 body scrub products I've ever used, as the mode of application does affect outcomes in a lot of instances. </div><div><br /></div><div>I always have my bath first and then dab my entire body dry, before using any body scrub at all. I am of the <i>personal </i>opinion that there is something about using a scrub on dry, clean skin. It feels more effective and exfoliating than using it on wet skin. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have tried a variety of body scrub applications before settling on this. However, if you have sensitive skin, I do not advise you to use this method as you may cause scratches to your skin with such direct contact.</div><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>1. <a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2019/03/wentshopping-ajali-body-scrubs-simple-micellar-water.html" target="_blank">Ajali Pure Sea Salt Body Scrub</a></u></h2><div><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbrPqbx604GjD8XlKzv0c7QMaG5t0iF4SSf8BL70GeYyV5aAgnvxr-nd8V61vb6iMTGHY_M-1S_Oc3FYGdq8oRSgFo_XJd5m1BD8ZbfNvzZ6Ot25SqMsBy-In8xIJkPaM2y6KsNZWm7pFJu4_qham8g3IxVEHYhWgP44SlelZA01skbPjvdEtnzgv/s16000/Ajali-sea-salt-body-scrub-barbara1923.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /></div><br /><div>First, I would like to let you know that prior to the final close of the Ajali store, this product was already out of production. I'm proud to say I bought the very last one ever and I didn't regret it at all. Fortunately for me, it was almost right at the start of my body scrub phase so it didn't sit in the dark for too long. </div><div><br /></div><div>This scrub brought to life my preference for salt body scrubs. I like that the body scrub has texture. The granules are fine but there is a texture to them that makes it feel like you are actually scrubbing your skin when using this. In this instance, I like the oily moisture left on my skin after use. </div><div><br /></div><div>I would not advise using a scrub like this in the daytime. Use it at night, right before you go to bed and wake up with skin that is beautiful to touch. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>2. Makariah Scrubs Coffee Scrub</u></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElCGbI_0ILcqSKw_QMia1g_eZMWCZareL8L18aV87VTYmZ71ODUeysFsvG46G6bVw_dPXU6qeO96licSTN0IEta0p1qU9OTlEEAqgY4VEXR0RjKQW91itzUNjsA11b7OqJxP1VDNohABd3v4cvQfZ-ICmrS5JjBZ3lXOBzg1TuiqogqQpHzWuZhqv/s16000/makariah-coffee-scrub-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><br /><div>Coffee scrub is not for everyone, just like Olives. It really is an acquired taste. I tried coffee scrubs way before I got into salt and sugar scrubs and as a beginner to the experience then, it spoiled it for me.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, with the experience of salt and sugar body scrubs, I grew to appreciate a relaxing, indulgent, aromatic coffee body scrub session. </div><div><br /></div><div>The only downside is it stains. What I have learnt to do is, use a soft, gentle soap to go over my skin again after using a coffee scrub to get rid of the stain but leave the nutrients on my skin especially when it is rich in oils like this one. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>3. Ewami Satin Micro Polish</u></h2><div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupYfianG1QyUTi4LGmIOkIZJJOvcJjvvyUr5H9DsRV3BHilXrBr1bzQdrjeZNqO9jmh_YQZZxVC9Mcf6VB0cqfTsWS59-OEMqPs1seCCHd1AEUO_s8W7tuY65Wn18B3pYx6efxIy7TEhmtWf4CmDlhUeLmGJJoDiqUQRD043X5pIotqWUIRCK40sq/s16000/Ewami-Micro-polish-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPZjfYYWTtgGbk4RgQn_xbEKR1XBVS0aJ2hrAMxVdrll32mph0xs2IH5gzTSxjjpwUFjp9l4iyBGN0MxpUQspopuzd3jtu84OQHh4mK98-rtYzpRl00_KYBpoqz9IEdbTScBNaFUTB4iSDlmHv1NkvErRmCQqvfQOGJOZj7a_nhot82hAvvAsou8S/s16000/Ewami-Micro-polish-barbara1923-2.jpg" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>At first, I wondered why <u style="font-style: italic;">polish</u>, but then I used it and understand why. It comes under this post because it also exfoliates the skin.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was confused when I saw the micro-polish. The thought that flashed through my mind was it needed to be mixed with something and because it was the mini-size, I couldn't read the instruction properly so I went online. Voila, there were no particular how-to-use instructions so I needed to improvise. </div><div><br /></div><div>After being used to scrubs with oils in them, this was an entirely new experience to me. I found myself describing it as microdermabrasion product because of how fine the product granules are. They are powdery in my experience. </div><div><br /></div><div>I tried using this on dry skin but it felt really harsh so I tried it on slightly damp skin and it felt much better. The final result is not as obviously significant as when one uses a scrub with slightly bigger granules so my conclusion is that this is perfect for sensitive skin <i>(used on damp skin)</i> and for maintaining the skin after a vigorous body scrub moment a couple of days prior. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>4. Seacret Milk & Honey Salt and Oil Scrub</u></h2><div><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHRu3YztazdfXZ2Ba7Vn8i9phTanxmOA3sPxwgp9QNfPRbm346wVsWOiJuaAdyapUgb7l5wqKHo0-4V17AFDLNYX8uDJpnNw_kEigjJXxRFEFKAQJYIwpTnfW3HmeGUzPLhenyFc7V1h9_0GceNuoh7sxc-Ffue8Oxuf4ln4QqMcmZ--5jAYrmwlqy/s16000/Seacret-Milk&Honey-Salt&Oil-Scrub-Barbara1923.jpg" /></div><div><u><br /></u></div><div>My current favourite. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have other scrubs I prefer to this one, but for some reason, I really, really like this scrub. My skin literally feels like glass after using this scrub. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is the one body scrub that makes me want to apply some cream right after just to feel how soft and smooth my skin is after application. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've actually being miserly with this as it is quite difficult to get and expensive when one does find it. I'm going to manage it till the end of this year 😁</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>5. Ajali Raw Sugar Polish</u></h2><div>This is another product I didn't quite understand why it was called a 'Polish' and not a 'scrub' initially, but I did understand eventually especially because I had the salt scrub to compare it with. </div><div><br /></div><div>Using this product, didn't bode well for the other Sugar scrubs I would encounter in my life as <b><i>it didn't exfoliate my skin like I had become used to </i></b>but it made sense to have it as a polish and not a scrub because it really felt like 'shining my skin' as opposed to sloughing off dead skin and dirt on it. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xfDd7UWZu5z73zf9BemVtSmqajN2XmPT8XQTC9_AK4nJeldRMch9Bfd5MkpRX0T0rNiuEAN5s1UJwDFnaXbDgk5NwG-irzPAVITgP8dseQ2mDBpz9QJMwOv8jtuDY2NozbObeQV7R6Cp3fTZsjF6xvXuOpHa0JUnzD66ZS_VQT7ZC958PReRKqxN/s16000/Ajali-Raw-Sugar-Body-Polish-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div>It had large sugar granules and as it was my first sugar scrub, I assumed ALL sugar scrubs were like it and stayed away from sugar scrubs for the longest time.<div><br /></div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>6. Arami Glow Scrub</u></h2><div>Uhm, this is the perfect scrub for soft, sensitive skin. </div><div>I have never seen a scrub that melts as fast as this. I honestly think it deserves to become a 'body polish' 🤔</div><div><br /></div><div>Surprisingly, my skin did feel alive and nourished after using it but without the radical smoothness I like to feel after using a scrub. Because of how quickly it melts, I use it on my face too sometimes. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfq6yFt9mSM77tp1XzKqmh1U6eNFCHEoQBwik2k7fkdmizqx2XFYA_s-cMWANorFIFYb80OoZNN7buV-INdDNXTtkyM5HC5e2Bv051uICiqJxmm9Wz5OGKto-IU27lXJ0HB4eRmwzPad2uEWmtbHUwtNSmGWVqVdA-jedMA0ADvf5JGf442TE-AE-/s16000/Arami-Glow-Scrub-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1969" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXOZ_5dcfTALfu9TerQT-0DsZfu6Ysfre3dikq23cgO2wRIuGGQT54IIRvgfxDFSnVFbFDt52QqYdy0EzGKEU9Ckf0l-wvrfyn0NMuQumoB9umt_ByKvkV46vksvFnjqhRjl7DO4YRWsOEDpS3RPoadwkj3QihfVjr6GRI30GGdz89wdEBhJHtBZG/s16000/Arami-Glow-Scrub-barbara1923-2.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I really like the richness of the fragrance it has and you do know that Arami is no stranger to lovely, intense, natural fragrance so if for the scent only, I'll continue to use this product until it finishes and not give it out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><u>7. <a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2018/01/video-staying-clean-moisturised-shea-moisture.html" target="_blank">Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydrating Hand & Body Scrub</a></u></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzlwYQrPbrwAIpdgojZWA8szapsS1dv8HNsEhbKzJDvtvL50cXfyvvlhlYsWxjhVCWNn397sgmSi1DPAtJlvf0lB3aXyEA9KwOBHA0R1y-wRAxgwDO-9nWCD-mFxcQPCPIwEBNoX4pAKFHFUmyaRRYMuzJSgSDAy8wVygR2DZMStQCOCqGHIbvyI3/s16000/Shea-Moisture-ManukaHoney-MafuraOil-Body-Scrub-Barbara1923.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is an absolutely gorgeous scrub. When I was first gifted this product by Shea Moisture in Nigeria, I didn't quite know what to do with it. I was a lazy beauty blogger and skincare wasn't a top priority for me.</div><div><br /></div>By the way, this scrub has sugar as the base but you'll never really know as the fragrance and luxurious moisture of the honey and oil are the top sellers of this. I never want to apply anything else on my skin after using this scrub. <div><br /></div><div>My skin is not heavy with oil after use. It just leaves it glowing and with a nice sheen to it from the oil. Did I also mention that when you use this scrub, prepare to be enveloped in a rich, warm fragance? Not just you but your bathroom, towel, everything actually. It leaves a nice base for other scents to be applied over it. </div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-65146786188454803902023-04-19T21:47:00.006+01:002023-04-25T19:55:46.953+01:00I Applied to become a BlackUp Makeup Artist + Review of BlackUp Mini-Haul<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj121b6XpdkqFbBmiV0eZMIHU2KvnqNUwDorytcvRuaYJ_E9Uk4qduxF-fBqvWGDJyWoL0R9lx2yIKsViACb-NkyU_T42JT7SeqHoZ4kzExIH8XMu6AXQ-zRE6NniyeYxFzSRRCLG2sUnr3DYo5cltdVi4G-xIwxpjsZ1fl6qBDgxHXScpEWgrGsLIw/s16000/BlackUp-Barbara1923.jpg" /></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">In my second year of working in a corporate job, I applied to Montaigne Place to become a BlackUp makeup artist. <i>I didn't get the job.</i></p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></p><p style="text-align: left;">I was new to makeup then. I didn't even know anything about highlighting and contouring then. All I knew was that - I was bored at my job, I had watched tons of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@xteeener/videos">Xteener</a> & Fafinettex3 videos, I was ready to take on the world and eyeshadow was my weapon of choice. Looking back, it's so funny. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p>I went for the interview and did the test - which was applying makeup on someone; the owner wasn't too impressed and told me straight up that I wasn't going to get the job. Off I went back to face my advertising job in sadness and despair. <b><i>But I obviously didn't quit or you wouldn't be reading this post right now.</i></b></p><p><b><i><br /></i></b></p><p>Fast forward 13 years later and I get a PR package from BlackUp for my review and opinion. <i>This life eh!</i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p>In reviewing the products, I did a talk-through video on my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYRwEn-8evEpi3-oFOwpYEw" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a> (<i>Please subscribe) </i>with them which you can watch <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26aBTTN8YC4&t=169s" target="_blank">here</a>. BUT FIRST, scroll past the video to read an indepth review of each of the 6 products I received.</p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/26aBTTN8YC4" title="YouTube video player" width="1000"></iframe><div><br /></div><div>Here is the entire haul I received: </div><div><br /></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGwr5NUNSthSYQpJ7azaFTv5_b9_W7O7YWPrVRlBwoIaPhEFBI5n6ngF0BRQJP1JZ3PWtX8enEJ68La79nGKJatejugaZqkeQBTOseuTfeY7S5SKRHV68eV0dZJOWKEx1Om78mP49stCY-kTtH8H17JQnAxS10e6PBS0n1xU4nQRY4Cy5DTpokfXqg/s16000/BlackUp-product-review.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Sharing my opinion one after the other, let's start with the first product I usually apply when doing my makeup, and go from there to the last</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">BlackUp Mattifying Fluid Foundation</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ38UsZw9Dxkv9zLX6ccOBm32-eRf3xylsiawUc5CrEs7WfokeAjgVVmAgr_AOkwAc_fo0CAe9oAuqhhhvW7e-IxGZDykDImBqbBxId-voFCG1TCv37RIlnyk6WmkvzOGkMu-GRz7Xhk9WzuYqrINGH9weCyWlpOK_VsE7koWve0hspHP7iAy7k32E/s16000/BlackUp-Mattifying-Fluid-Foundation.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVW5bfBZGPuOLieI9an_Lr5EA_vDAXMqcJXw2hjaxt8NrAl0dKDVlokgWrbDsORrzPViGKcYg2_y57wRakYUMGMNcQuSiCT4f--bt8g36sEgVH0D2eKOpOWqYIQbfb0kxFh2X4-W7ue9aXG69LTWjfUO05E5oSX9AJ_ytEm6kK06u1zEAtOyPOXtRh/s16000/BU-2.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>The closest to an actual liquid foundation I've seen in a long time. Strange, but I love it when liquid foundations are actually runny. </div><div><br /></div><div>I applied the foundation with my adesign round top foundation stippling brush <i>(which is now out of stock forever. I like using this brush for foundation because it is stiff enough for stippling but can also be used to spread the product in a rubbing motion. Also, it works for any kind of foundation.)</i></div><div><br /></div><div>The BlackUp foundation has a <b>nice, glowy, natural finish</b>. I like <b>the illusion of super smooth skin</b> it gives off. Plus, it actually <b>dries matte</b> which means you have to work fast with it. It provides <b>full coverage with one pump</b> and as you can see, I do have quite a number of spots and acne in the video which it covered up once I was done blending the foundation. </div><div><br /></div><div>Considering the texture of the foundation, any foundation tool can be used for application as it is easy to work with.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">BlackUp High Coverage Concealer </h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMEdvAxyYxN24WbjR_86DPcT92MoggHWQK8EwIXKiZCDdFztOTuKji6hbdm93sIF1jXsu6PuaIIlmAf7iCP-GgN3W-794uvkiaNa0XpyVBhKVB7JFWRIKRy6LjzPy3x4CuMEMYBgfeLpxa_Rq96hqgSxktGIQuNHCqwoFx9vzvqBrxmJ2_N0U0UYLz/s16000/BU-3.jpg" /></div><br /><div>I love the thick texture of this concealer. Don't be deceived though, it can be 'over blended' if care isn't taken. If you need fuller under-eye coverage, you might need to apply a second coat after the first one but that's only if you are the 'every day is a red carpet day' kinda gal. </div><div><br /></div><div>The best part of this concealer for me is the fact that I don't have to do too much to have it last all day and not crease wherever I've placed it. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is matte without being dry and causing the skin to flake. </div><div>It is easy to blend out with either a brush or a beauty blender. The choice is pretty much yours. </div><div>It is very, very low fuss, which most concealers aren't.</div><div><br /></div><div><h3>BlackUp Matte Eyebrow Pencil</h3></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_1wDewr9mcdUhylcNHl-uB64T-fTgn8CN1hsvIRGaerDc9o3Yyh9DaF8KMByFS4jF9i87ujYMHUSMYn2laxHH-jGpmqkH2bhwx8-0PyXFZE652upq8YTghabYVMSRQbtC36luJgqRZw8clEA4k8dtlMItw7-8vRkLOyn417AEdknxuSmcmvnEmPj/s16000/BU-4.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Not many brands send their eyebrow products to me because they know I don't fill or tame my brows. What they don't realise is that when they do send me eyebrow products, I always find a way to make that product become indispensable by giving it multiple functions. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's pretty much what I've done with the BlackUp Matte eyebrow pencil.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First of all, I DID try it on my brows. It is softer than the average eyebrow pencil. Most eyebrow pencils are stiff and one needs to apply pressure to get the product to show up on the skin of the eyebrows. The BlackUp eyebrow pencil is not like that at all. In fact, it applies like a regular pencil, but you and I know it is so much more than that. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I always like eyebrow pencils that come with a spoolie because while I don't fill my brows, I usually brush through them and that's what the spoolie is for.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At the moment, this pencil is doubling as a lip pencil and a pretty long-lasting lip pencil it is turning out to be too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><h3>BlackUp Blush and Highlighter Duo</h3></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMmh98-B0I92FgdKm1PcMrnx5_ZT9tyEgSPk2YhMceuP_8MZFGFyGBnhUnWbcEaO_P78UrXaeXVjouDyA1FXKjIw9Je63R4zVPqPRWhRbm7XD7JCQiuP3ub5_ks4aZA97sSDkwG7azLkOy3-MliEUx00BpcKRi0H_C6wnxLqATtgjD45Iawa6Gon6M/s16000/BU-5.jpg" /></div><br /><div>If I was to choose the most disappointing product of the lot, it would be this duo. First of all, I'm still trying to understand why it is in a different package. Me thinks it is a collection or series of some sort. I've tried to find out on the internet to no avail so I'll just leave it at that.</div><div><br /></div><div>I love me a good blush and highlighter and because of this, I'm pretty partial to them. I will say however that this particular blush doesn't pack a punch upon application. One needs to either pick a lot up with the brush at once or patiently build it up for it to show <i>(I'll recommend applying repeatedly though so you don't go overboard)</i>.</div><div><br /></div><div>The highlighter, on the other hand, is lovely. The texture is soft, and I would rather pick up a little and blend it out - <i>which it does beautifully. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>I got a red blush and a pink highlighter. The combo is quite pretty and pairs really well.</div><div><br /></div><div><h3>BlackUp Ombre Lips Duo</h3></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnTmGJ_6vt8SL0Z-shzGHPDZqmIt0CO30MD6SGG9Z2ADLr8IdygvGt0Ygg-mJ6hfhSWM03MMpNbzdrOMu3OeOs65wX4RbO4Sg47LrJmjlzrHHZ_vOXoI7TdnNBMQojdFGjCKI2zVA2GMopnAudz0rlbmOOhui2ue5MZj36w3IcNQ-qsNwvAK6XSvpp/s16000/Blackup-ombre-lips-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>I've done a dark and bright red pairing before but for some reason, I really loved using this product and it felt like the first time I had done this kind of pairing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Without paying any attention to the instructions on the pencil to <i>use the dark shade to contour the lips with an outline and the lighter shade for highlighting the lips in the center for prominence, </i>I went ahead to do just that. That speaks to the fact that the product is literally foolproof. You don't need to be a professional makeup artist to use it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Like the other products, the pigmentation of this product is out of this world. It is creamy and considering I've grown to love pencil lipsticks, they got me with this product as it is now a staple favourite of mine.</div><div><br /></div><div><h3>BlackUp No Transfer Kolh Waterproof Pencil</h3></div><div><br /></div><div>I forgot to take the picture of this product. </div><div>It is my absolute favourite of the bunch and I forgot to take a picture of it! <i>*le sigh*</i></div><div>I think it rolled away somewhere when I was taking the pictures and I didn't realise until I was writing out this post more than a week later <i>(but it is featured in the video above and the mini-review video below)</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>The shade I got is NTK 03M, in layman's terms, it is a bright cobalt blue shade. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's been a while since I got to use a kohl pencil that is as creamy as this, as pigmented as this, in the midst of the creamy and the pigment, it is still very, very waterproof. This just means it ain't moving to anywhere once you apply it. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is blendable too. One just has to work quickly with it if the intention is to blend. When taking it off, be sure to use a waterproof eye makeup remover so you don't tear the skin under your eyes while rubbing it off. YES, it can be that tough to take off.</div><div><br /></div><div>In case, I forgot to include something in this review, you can check out the Instagram video review I did below. I swatched all the products there so do check it out and follow me on Instagram.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
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font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0px;"></div> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px;"><div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12.5px; margin-left: 2px; margin-right: 14px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px); width: 12.5px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style="border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); border-top: 2px solid transparent; height: 0px; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg); width: 0px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="border-right: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); transform: translateY(16px); width: 0px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; transform: translateY(-4px); width: 16px;"></div> <div style="border-left: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); height: 0px; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px); width: 0px;"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CqEGo39DSRE/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by B A R B A R A | The Corporate Creative (@barbara1923)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-6744800435550822162023-03-30T14:02:00.024+01:002023-03-30T14:21:00.116+01:00The 3 Things I Learned While Taking New Personal Brand Photos<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2500" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97rxrSDm0AC4mLOFJfo537Z6bErHE0bor8pTVxM8ABP7eEg8wyaDUmynojmuu8mP3SwHFbvY0CsG27-p1Z7LiVUVlgXcvtYc_lqUzOUsktrNBEDQC1dchqmmVo9UBwCuOQsk4G3i9HsooONy87oIqYR-tX-okoPZAsTmxf0KUS-hqd9nS7sJ2jpCJ/s16000/image00012_1_50.jpeg" /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Being an introvert seems to automatically have the headline <i style="font-weight: bold;">Life is hard</i> written across your forehead. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">To be honest, sometimes that is the case and at other times, it really isn't. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">One of the times when it is super hard for me as an introvert is when it comes to taking pictures. Considering my personal brand, it is imperative, I have a visual identity and taking my pictures by myself, all the time, may not be the right approach. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Anyway, I dug in my heels, swallowed, planned ahead and decided it was time to take a step forward. So I planned a photoshoot with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/franklenzofficial/">Frank Lenz</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQVuHWcmEu00oCvCaJ2OT_wApcgVSfCrzgtDe3Znj122LA2Ni3FW79yF-Ai5Fnx4Duo_i_jp5k1aHRx7nA7r0sgQqvcqIT-xQl08f1ih39XtVN8dzn5jkwNGgySxMXx52MwySMlCXATVI9sA-2aCrcbe0DmGrRlL-Lj_nnrkLSlusmqact2nl64xm/s16000/image00015.jpeg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>As you know, I always take something away from every new experience and here are the 3 things I learned this time around:</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Putting Yourself Out There Feels Good Because It's Giving Value</h3><div>As an introvert, my entire being is screaming as I write that sub-heading but it is the truth. As much as introverts don't like to be in the spotlight, recognition and the value, our work brings to others, gives forth a glow. This time around, there were just 2 other people and I had spent days worrying about how the pictures would look, but it felt good as my introvert brain processed it as an opportunity for Frank to grow his portfolio and more of me giving him value than the other way around <i>(we introverts are self-sacrificing A LOT of the time)</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">It is Possible to Experience Something New without Being Exhausted </h3><div>I think I speak for a lot of introverts when I say being sapped of all your mental and emotional energy is not a nice feeling at all. It literally makes you limp. But at this photoshoot, I experienced the new feeling of someone else taking pictures of me but at the end of it all, I didn't feel mentally exhausted. This was new and here is why - <i>Frank made me comfortable because I comunicated to him the challenges I had with pictures and how uneasy I usually am in front of other people when I'm in front of the camera. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Being Open to Different Experiences Doesn't Make You Someone Else</h3><div>Sometimes introverts envy extroverts. I'll tell you here and now that I envy extroverts and how they can so easily put themselves out there and be the centre of attention without needing to think or plan ahead. Wanting to learn some of their behaviours doesn't make me less of introvert or less of myself. It just means I'm curious, open to learning and human. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5000" data-original-width="4000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdRG2CN7RKEPBq0pT3rKUgVWNSoXQlAg25KK_ZljA_t6UdPevCzkfSjhOTorR_8_P5zwjkvk-iYcoen3F_0i91zs4PQRuEkFahXMWCteTLmrrqlOjDQr1L1zTJwIUNGIh1o7NWIjI8gHOCZuClu4XMwShetJXLyvFIQbcdyV-q1SuoKIi6bd1YdoS/s16000/image00014.jpeg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3985" data-original-width="3188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNFJV2ZP6ZjiWDwfdXAGuBPlb-l_U3xWVA_t7x8xxGnNZVuX5TQ7qCavrPQf_K2HJCYOEYuV45iZB-mB9W4bYpbk6jHv-PRcyAMcRY5KifCosuGr2vQ_FD5af57UKbbZCrZHQ4jXC4cb1EkkenHPnRjrqispPvCw_4RYdranrMQgLEnbhWmZteAGSg/s16000/image00003.jpeg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4798" data-original-width="3838" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7MgLcPe-fdZ40f_fxGUW8qnVTMMYTAtYG4U1YFT0UniLwQS8hFHqpWcmds4DZsC7Y43AGcbyjW1buAReFZLaOvWgGrXvymbF1ozfJD-ototqOcgbiAHCR9RChzBcul4xRzhjsPUvFffT8OwF_hXMYR_pMMFxJ5tOLrVXbade1mgkpzdFhR7yFDdqW/s16000/image00002.jpeg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4507" data-original-width="3606" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOBzzgxIQZcT4GuVnw0Yr7PfTM-ymhuvgcfj8-gh0JOQh0GI9N_2FrgUQTbA8DOKz7tqb_2LJdG79kAlKMNYIksF5H2gEQRmxcGy_h6WuvYb07mThEo5xDfVb0eSmEMlQoCbnqnx3XMn_V18T8d3VNK_50Ei2dS7qoQOErsfoHKp-IFdrRaf9koYtm/s16000/image00001.jpeg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>After all is said and done, Frank did a great job and I daresay, I was brave for my first time in front of the camera. I think I'm looking forward to doing this again definitely.</div><div><br /></div><div>Which of the pictures is your favourite?</div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-73959685842764926732022-09-21T15:21:00.002+01:002023-03-17T18:20:18.110+01:004 Tips to Networking As An Introvert - The Leading Ladies Africa Conference<p><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCwSfsI49qsv7W2UNjo_r2e8qaaJjbPK73UyHf3W59bAxBB0r4H19FA_MnthCVb3n1lpMWrCskxD2Js5iOgXJKsP7IvobFCGA2FRDnccVppw3DddoF9bVBY5wXN8PeaawWPaTwGhQsP3hODiSEwzWzPRrhKpFiMx4mFKPdYfx1lwRGWjZibphp6gh/s16000/leading-ladies-africa.jpeg" /></p><br /><p>I've never understood the concept of networking - not because I don't know the value, but because I'm an introvert and could never just muster the courage to put myself out there <i>(I'm changing for the better in that regard now though). </i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p>Networking means I have to dress up, go out, meet people, smile <i>even when I don't feel like</i>, and risk being snubbed by someone, have my energy drained and have people bumping against me when I would rather just curl up at home with my laptop or my phone and keep writing or reviewing more beauty products. </p><p><br /></p><p>But in my role and capacity as Online Editor for TW Magazine, alongside having a thriving small business which relies on referrals and word of mouth, I <b>ABSOLUTELY</b> need to go out and network. </p><p><br /></p><p>I think I found a way to go around it so it doesn't feel too overwhelming and I tried these tips I'm sharing here at the Leading Ladies Africa 2022 Conference which I attended earlier this year in April actually. Here goes:</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Know That It May Not Be As Gong-Ho As It Is Touted to Be</h4><div>People always talk a lot about how helpful networking is for career growth, business success and how you can even start a genuine relationship from a connection you make. But when you know and expect that this may not necessarily be how it works out for you. This way, you preserve your energy and still get something good out of the experience.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Have Your Elevator Pitch Ready</h4><div>The standard at networking events is to always put what you do forward. As an introvert and a multihyphenate, the likelihood of selecting a single thing to introduce myself as on the spot can be hard which will lead to being tongue-tied, embarrassed, losing an opportunity and later feeling down & angry with myself. Avoid all that and plan ahead what it is you will say when someone approaches you to ask what you do. </div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Be Prepared to Listen</h4><div>This is supposed to come naturally to introverts but in situations where you are trying to push yourself forward, the likelihood of mindlessly interrupting conversations with dry jokes & unrelated stories or exuding a lack-lustre which makes people know you would rather not be there is rather high. Make it easy on yourself and others by channeling all your energies towards specifics - introduction and response. Every other thing, you can just listen to and smile.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Have a Plan</h4><div>This isn't necessarily the same an itinerary that <a href="https://www.barbara1923.com/2022/08/what-introverts-do-before-an-event.html" target="_blank">Introverts draw up for events</a>, this is more like an action plan as it is filled with things you will actually do, action steps you will execute. </div><div><br /></div><div>Using the Leading Ladies Africa Conference as an example, as part of my plan which was aimed at <u>learning, reconnecting, connecting</u> and <u>exhibiting courage</u>, I was going to </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>reconnect with Bola Balogun, Ijeoma Balogun & Nnenna Onyewuchi <i>(under reconnecting)</i>, </li><li>find common ground with Cherry Eromosele whom I have admired from afar for a very long time. This common ground would be the foundation for forming a connection <i>(connecting)</i></li><li>start every new conversation with my name and a one-line introduction of who I am & what I do, followed by my signature firm handshake <i>(connecting & exhibiting courage)</i></li><li>pay attention to ALL that is being said as I was out to grow in my career & personal endeavours <i>(learning)</i></li></ul></div><div><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVl8ob5rzH11gpF5gE3zOvlLKxQZTLyxVOVmmr0JMu615qjHGj5OwyUPQrB2uYb-4zpBcBn8cPk_sLYpoi2cOMrBrPhf6bdZD14MTebndWnEGuVZ0HARMasN77Iz7YmOFp45ZUkdbw58_s88wEwp91gyOLXxsHPiuyMo1fZAfmfTlyN2jYzoRZs-pq/s320/bola-balogun-ijeoma-balogun-leading-ladies.jpeg" width="240" /><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVTIqS7oOABwUstif0q0lwnTi9ld9mc4tn-WAK2llqsOoc3qeOvk8hJP_2KEP5iDPsb6-17tOy6cES1aWi-QdWdlMBrNFP9ZFYWpZiukAR0nsSFUeWUiX5M50v8dE9E-YjJb3qf_zuJ62OA_nvZs-kodIvrkqHoK3y8ZPqWeVp0dsnHwI0pmkvEP-/s320/cherry-eromosele-interswitch-CMO.jpeg" width="240" /><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqL2xRufeIHpTviTT3edntxCDiAPi5pKwkSsqzbGf2VeiqzGxs-MYZ-21Ga7YOLlsO4IOGYbuxs167ExVigyQTOFKLoJsW4vEvEnf5Z7UpdRfJ1sCGrjrAZ9Vi-1fq01yUsUlBtHGmBdK61ARZMZQUWu4CL1D6_Jo0ItDC93MoEDQIj60fmk0wLuLB/s320/nnenna-onyewuchi.jpeg" width="240" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There were live panel sessions at the session and in true <a href="https://twitter.com/barbara1923" target="_blank">@barbara1923</a> fashion, I tweeted some of the nuggets I got from them. See some of them below </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">There is a path of gold at the end of courage. - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NnennaOnyewuchi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NnennaOnyewuchi</a>, Co-Founder, YBR Lagos<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LBD2022?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LBD2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/LeadingLadiesAF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeadingLadiesAF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakTheBias?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakTheBias</a></p>— B A R B A R A (@barbara1923) <a href="https://twitter.com/barbara1923/status/1510227266172772355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></p><p style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="879" data-original-width="1172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj12yQg0PI0C2EYqyPkWgIcIQkzvTXoA1GcludgrzV-fAippm1lpKiS2Xrgb62Ms1JMBo-m7OB6-xVjGY2XgTCYn92fE33puBVNGxhtGmuw1s_DhGyS1S9Jgvfj8iXWUjK593bXhx7fcTBw6lJSyJA1o40gdpf5caQ8QJa3lIOJynSiS-JDXAwUO4UW/s16000/20220402_121523.jpg" style="text-align: left;" /></p></div><center><p> </p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">You have to put in the work to ensure sustainable success. - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BolaBalogun?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BolaBalogun</a>, Founder, Glam Brand Agency<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LBD2022?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LBD2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/LeadingLadiesAF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeadingLadiesAF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakTheBias?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakTheBias</a></p>— B A R B A R A (@barbara1923) <a href="https://twitter.com/barbara1923/status/1510226452561764358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><center>
<center><p><br /></p><p><img border="0" data-original-height="879" data-original-width="1172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwG39IEvLB-VhNdI1N5Assu7cv4aRg1MKovZTT8hTfojgmkr9ptDB-_5fgX25hBqAVKBGIFaJ6Y87aeoCk56ZFHIl8sUSpXBCUEZNU9tuoyZmfTStlpQ8zPLksBiw3FTRG96ZSt6A6def5wemuMJMVmxJmpvhj0xS78QLtnfK-tmX13wmgEiK8Bidd/s16000/20220402_130903.jpg" style="text-align: left;" /></p><p> </p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">Put yourself forward as available for more work. - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BukolaSmith?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BukolaSmith</a>, MD <a href="https://twitter.com/FSDHBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FSDHBank</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LBD2022?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LBD2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/LeadingLadiesAF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeadingLadiesAF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Breakingthebias?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Breakingthebias</a></p>— B A R B A R A (@barbara1923) <a href="https://twitter.com/barbara1923/status/1510210210710839301?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><center>
<center><p><br /></p><p><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPRKqHslsjExNHa9xBI4ZTejBT9x87N6EDM8xJv3pHI0Hqey8XIptwFFNgAVrwnOi_XLSwqe3qWEQ4-7QMWWzRQWtrSTDXBzvY3INW0D6AH0ro23MrlGo4PpKDAq24Is2oIL1THUqcddt5up2-Y7TuY3HAn3G-EjXBqECtneXG-RhRe0u26qPmke2/s16000/leading-ladies-francesca-onomarie-uriri.jpeg" style="text-align: left;" /></p><p> </p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kissing ass 'strategically' is key to growth as a woman in the workplace - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OlamideAdeosun?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OlamideAdeosun</a>, CFO, <a href="https://twitter.com/FBNQuest?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBNQuest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LBD2022?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LBD2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/LeadingLadiesAF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeadingLadiesAF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/breakingthebias?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#breakingthebias</a></p>— B A R B A R A (@barbara1923) <a href="https://twitter.com/barbara1923/status/1510219150416912387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><center>
</center></center></center></center></center></center></center></center></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6C77H2FH+M2-4.4258104 -14.9723825-21.731744121389003 -32.5505075 12.880123321389004 2.6057425tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-88952350041527935752022-09-17T21:46:00.000+01:002022-09-17T21:46:08.341+01:00FAME by Paco Rabanne; A Study in Interactive & Eco-Friendly Perfumery. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2570" data-original-width="2958" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4nSl-YwVIniWLXO6qJYXc_bETYtd7f3DQidfa5IAAGedx0B6hHs8FrSgoBc4sq_kRZaxq_zgEmhcqnGvXb9ZqjD6EPYiTckDQcUstq5k8JhSCXpFLu8bfU5aL0jo_H4jciYl2Ta8NqBg8zA_aEFfMa7c_muadRKFCqaLdgVOUuOs_4JCRNNd7jpO7/s16000/Fame-paco-rabanne-parfums-barbara1923.jpeg" /></span></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Have I ever mentioned how much easier it is to review a perfume than all other beauty aspects?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Now that's out of the way, let's move on to the perfume review for today - <b>FAME by Paco Rabanne</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">FAME by Paco Rabanne first comes off as a warm, rich, tangy fragrance and while the flacon is impressive, the technology and research behind its development are to be commended. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">In case you don't understand what I mean, the flacon is interactive. Using an NFC-enabled device, you can touch the top of the flacon with your phone and instantly be taken to the FAME by Paco Rabanne page on the Paco Rabanne website. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you haven't been privy to a closer inspection of the packaging on which this information is printed, here is my unboxing video </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<center><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CicqEBnjNfK/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 3px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px 0px 1px 0px, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15) 0px 1px 10px 0px; margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0px; width: calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding: 16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CicqEBnjNfK/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 0; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; 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margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CicqEBnjNfK/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A post shared by B A R B A R A | The Corporate Creative (@barbara1923)</span></a></p></div></blockquote> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></span><center>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;">In preparing for this review, I used the fragrance four times, in four different ways, making sure I spent the day outside, at work, in the office and generally around town, to determine </span><b style="text-align: left;">Longevity</b><span style="text-align: left;"> & </span><b style="text-align: left;">Sillage.</b></span></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>The Flacon</u></span></span></h2><p style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Before I go into the actual fragrance and how well it wears, let me tell you a bit about the flacon. Like I said a couple of paragraphs ago, it is interactive and you can read about the perfume by just tapping the top with your NFC-enabled mobile device. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkKYAlIB2wfHPvcsGxDDX7k4xlH9Jex0hG5AK0oSNui7ZRF8_fpoa1X2cl6njzYMQs4lsCXPJUSsx88mKc3vUnIWRlyKC-lTo1y0BCO-yzscP1w8jVdWLFVlWwKnYBFYWW4R_HWzDc5aj-2Q1my8kn5I6SdJxE38IudCXfRFdPUzQQPqgrDVsxq6Z/s16000/Paco%20Rabanne%20parfum.jpg" /></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The other thing I didn't mention, is the fact that the FAME by Paco Rabanne flacon is refillable/reuseable. This is environmentally responsible and eco-friendly. I'm not yet sure if FAME is the first actual full-sized perfume to be refillable asides from the regular atomisers we are all used to. I checked google for the answer but couldn't find an answer to that.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXs0MvL7z4dutjSVAajUwpVkxiAA-_btygFxSJHPb9e6wtjlbBWFnlHT7IV0TAUEdN1ygVDal7CEEx-I39ft2s2ctlL1Mu-UV7yI6mV-uHXzujlCS7xGcIaVVA1Oud8uJBMzL0LgjQSy6iJlzTA4bqSdgfsZlzhpUrn-14zxG3JqOW3Bbrb_veS3Q7/s16000/refillable%20eco-friendly%20perfume%20flacon%20FAME.jpg" /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The bottle is supposed to be armour, a chain-mail armour. I love the mixed metal it has going on as well and did you notice it is wearing heels? This is the first Paco Rabanne perfume I am owning and using, but I hear the armour design is something Paco Rabanne is known for. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv98mxtZomx-e0bA1UBLRJ4T1D_chqaV5c1FIOVPElqMsMtTWQS8MS9XtypKEh8FjohX4dMX32cHnp_vsDenjHXCn1cRzZNhekJytne7r-JqRsplD8NnX0TD1gN_kV6zd12ySor3R1Qlr6b3vxY19yM1j23bDCgR5Grrd8OZoDPwUG5h-coTs5YvCD/s16000/Barbara1923%20FAME%20by%20Paco%20Rabanne%20review.jpg" /><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBO4_vSfapgSOPLLV8x0HHvCvKy9CoofrJt-tSuwPSGwW-8IU7ShbfT-xM7mv5ynZ9xShkbwN6KXnc4gct_reg4sojjYF4gOA7sreZzmX3L8eoJsq0ZeK5OtM9IypXV4KLdtZYNAUJ9KAUAp3Nd3VmnfR7PRO86_snYSwTIbHXtzV7vaPRIrS1dHN1/s16000/FAME%20by%20Paco%20Rabanne%20Barbara1923.jpg" /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>The Fragrance</u></span></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">What Paco Rabanne says it is </span></span></h2><div><span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><blockquote><span style="font-family: inherit;">Discover FAME, the covetable new women's perfume by Paco Rabanne. Capturing the irresistible Parisian spirit of the Rabanne woman, FAME perfume pays tribute to a new era of femininity. Playful. Sensual. Empowered. The quintessence of avant-garde luxury, this perfume is a blend of exceptionally pure jasmine, succulent mango and an addictively sensual creamy incense.</span></blockquote></span></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">It is warm and rich and the mango and jasmine notes are definitely there. It also has a sweet twist to it. I'm not sure, but maybe the fact that 90% of the ingredients are natural is the reason for my rating of the sillage.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Oh, lest I forget, it is actually an EDP i.e. Eau de Parfum </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Day 1</span></u></h4><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I wore FAME on my clothes. I kept getting a whiff of it around me up till about 12/1pm when I couldn't perceive it again. I even did the unladylike thing where I tried to smell myself but got a barely there fragrance. By the end of the day, it was gone entirely.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Day 2</span></u></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">I applied it directly on my skin, and to my pulse points. If you have read my <a href="http://bit.ly/2fF7a9d" target="_blank">perfume etiquette post</a>, then you know my staple perfume application technique. On this day, it wore longer than the first day but by the end of the day, it was all gone as well. </span></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">p.s. on both days, sillage was almost none existent as the scent stayed close to my body all the while.</span></h4><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Day 3</span></u></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">I both applied and wore the perfume generously. There was still no sillage, but by the end of the day when I tried smelling myself, I got a lingering warm scent very close to my skin. The kind of scent, a lover would be attracted to after a long, busy day and would make them not want to let you go <i>(yes, that's the only thing that came to my mind at the exact point in time when I wrote that line because of how intimate and rich FAME by Paco Rabanne is when it has dried down to the very last spicy, lingering note)</i></span></h4><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><i><br /></i></span></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Day 4</span></u></b></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Coincidentally, I watched Jackie Aina's video on how to make your perfume last longer and while I didn't follow the scent through right from body wash & scrub, I did her layering technique i.e. moisturise, apply perfume, layer unscented oil on your skin and apply a second perfume layer. After this, I still wore the perfume on my clothes again. The sillage was real and lasted up till noon. I could perceive it and people around me could perceive it too. By late afternoon, it started disappearing gradually and by the time I got home around 6pm, it was all gone with the wind, <i>lol.</i></span></h4><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><i><br /></i></span></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0GzPI7qDgKLy-znA3fBLzM2Du3FtgbkJydaQg0Vb4GVZYL-McCY7ZnKbSpkEsthjS2i95xmzU8zB1NOnFZlOqogoGy8LxYJ5If9KFB-1jeAVuv6VhUcM1MzEuUofTyBN5SRqodtVwBZGp9hn7DyZDJvvqOZ09mXKrvEK325FGwFtpBwv98bP_mTKX/s16000/FAME%20by%20Paco%20Rabanne%20perfume%20review.jpg" /></div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></h4>Overall, while I love the warm, rich fragrance, I don't like the fact that the</span> <u style="font-family: inherit;">longevity and sillage are a low average</u><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">. This can easily be rectified by re-applying during the day </span><i style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">(which is perfectly acceptable perfume etiquette)</i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">, but I would have loved it to be long-lasting enough to still linger on my clothes. </span></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">If you love warm, rich fragrances like I do and have no issues with reapplying your perfumes during the day, then this is perfect for you. Have you used this yet? Is there a Paco Rabanne perfume you love...apart from 1 million, <i style="font-family: inherit;">lol. </i></span></h4><div><br /></div></center></center>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-32153610409554627762022-09-14T13:52:00.002+01:002022-09-19T15:44:06.318+01:00#ThisisLagos | Pt. 4, Living in Lagos<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdSZil4NdAi/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUg7fMWet_d_kPbWXwjyTs3LYOnhJzanCMJ6hQiccRrWrzrykBriRQ3dk7yYlC5ZWQiUOjCg4MoV7jM3G3amU5AbfGi6rx9HbeutX-OBkdchSZBykwiIS-t1WuT-uALPnSqQLD0OZLVTcw886xjYhyCtaFqMaHjiWW98kxyTFS0jb2V25nausAfh94/s16000/this%20is%20lagos%20landscape%20barbara1923.jpg" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;">No, I haven't stopped taking pictures of Lagos. Yes, I haven't shared them here for aaages now 😊</span></div><div><br /></div><div>I really didn't take in a while, but I'm back to taking more of them and there was no way I wasn't going to share here. </div><div><br /></div><div>Just like when taking product pictures, I love packaging & products that have attractive colours as opposed to minimal, or pale colours; for landscape photography, I love capturing clouds. </div><div><br /></div><div>Did you know that clouds can be used to interpret the weather? Although their primary purpose is to absorb the Earth's energy and scatter solar radiation, I do believe they have a mind of their own and speak a language only landscape lovers can understand. </div><div><br /></div><div>In this series, I'm sharing <i><u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/lagosinmotion/" rel="nofollow">#Lagosinmotion</a></u> </i>images taken with a <b>Samsung S10+</b> on the Island and along Gbagada Expressway with a lot of clouds in them. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMWX-UjHN1M/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="800" src="https://fetchnow.herokuapp.com/media?id=aHR0cHM6Ly9zY29udGVudC5jZG5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL3YvdDUxLjI4ODUtMTUvMTU5MjIzMzQzXzExOTY1MzI2MzQ2NDIxNl82MjYzOTI3MzE3NTQ2Mjc1NTYxX24uanBnP3N0cD1kc3QtanBnX2UzNSZfbmNfaHQ9c2NvbnRlbnQuY2RuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbSZfbmNfY2F0PTEwOCZfbmNfb2hjPXRILXFXTEtHYWhRQVg5U2trMWQmZWRtPUFKQmdacllCQUFBQSZjY2I9Ny01Jm9oPTAwX0FUX2M5NGQ2STduRlNEeFprVS0tSFlaWlJFZ3UxZGNkLWIzMmZDTlBFZTAzb0Emb2U9NjMyODkxQ0UmX25jX3NpZD03OGM2NjI=" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/COOCcm0Hodl/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://fetchnow.herokuapp.com/media?id=aHR0cHM6Ly9zY29udGVudC5jZG5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL3YvdDUxLjI4ODUtMTUvMTc4NDk4NjY5XzI3OTgwNjAwMzM3Nzk3MDNfMjM0ODg4MDExNDM0Mzc4MDQyMl9uLmpwZz9zdHA9ZHN0LWpwZ19lMzUmX25jX2h0PXNjb250ZW50LmNkbmluc3RhZ3JhbS5jb20mX25jX2NhdD0xMTEmX25jX29oYz1lQlo1WGpwOVBpc0FYOXh5TlA5JmVkbT1BSkJnWnJZQkFBQUEmY2NiPTctNSZvaD0wMF9BVDhPNmhBUEtpcExsNEZyVnZ3Wkg1UFc3VVdJXzhOVjZ2WGJaVWVhSmlOTUhRJm9lPTYzMjdCODA2Jl9uY19zaWQ9NzhjNjYy" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/COzdqmzHivr/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="800" src="https://fetchnow.herokuapp.com/media?id=aHR0cHM6Ly9zY29udGVudC5jZG5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL3YvdDUxLjI4ODUtMTUvMTg1MjczOTk4XzEwMjI3MjczODY1NTAzNl82NDQ5MDE1NDExMjk4MTExNjYyX24uanBnP3N0cD1kc3QtanBnX2UzNSZfbmNfaHQ9c2NvbnRlbnQuY2RuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbSZfbmNfY2F0PTEwMCZfbmNfb2hjPVFBN3lfMk1acDl3QVg5VEJBdjkmZWRtPUFKQmdacllCQUFBQSZjY2I9Ny01Jm9oPTAwX0FUOE4zVzlKX2JtM0RfODNQUnhyYnVEYmNCSzVSekFqZWFYOVpRLTMzU29BX0Emb2U9NjMyOEVENTAmX25jX3NpZD03OGM2NjI=" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CPSN-aYH9-0/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="800" src="https://fetchnow.herokuapp.com/media?id=aHR0cHM6Ly9zY29udGVudC5jZG5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL3YvdDUxLjI4ODUtMTUvMTkwMzY3MzA5XzgyNzIzODE5ODIwMDk2Nl8zOTM0NDkwOTU0ODg3OTUxMDc5X24uanBnP3N0cD1kc3QtanBnX2UzNSZfbmNfaHQ9c2NvbnRlbnQuY2RuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbSZfbmNfY2F0PTEwMiZfbmNfb2hjPUhkNHlFU3VHbXNJQVgtRGw4bWwmZWRtPUFKQmdacllCQUFBQSZjY2I9Ny01Jm9oPTAwX0FUOUY2b3gzdTQ5ZjNSSEUxb0RxZjhuWmNUc3ZldU96SnFlWmVlU0FfUFhjMUEmb2U9NjMyOThDRkEmX25jX3NpZD03OGM2NjI=" width="800" /></a></div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CO95oMQnalw/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="800" src="https://fetchnow.herokuapp.com/media?id=aHR0cHM6Ly9zY29udGVudC5jZG5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL3YvdDUxLjI4ODUtMTUvMTg2MTg2NjA0XzE5OTI2MTc4MjAyOTU5OV84ODA3MzA0NDQ1NzQyMzg2MDI5X24uanBnP3N0cD1kc3QtanBnX2UzNSZfbmNfaHQ9c2NvbnRlbnQuY2RuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbSZfbmNfY2F0PTEwNyZfbmNfb2hjPXl0RzctOUl6Q2NFQVgtdGRfUHomZWRtPUFKQmdacllCQUFBQSZjY2I9Ny01Jm9oPTAwX0FUX3FBR0t6QWZ4ZkpZY0pVc0t6cFBFMDFCNlpWVEVtSHlJbUVQbmwzV2JiSGcmb2U9NjMyODJFNjEmX25jX3NpZD03OGM2NjI=" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQTDsWZnO15/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="800" src="https://fetchnow.herokuapp.com/media?id=aHR0cHM6Ly9zY29udGVudC5jZG5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL3YvdDUxLjI4ODUtMTUvMjAzMDE5NjYwXzExNzQ0MzIwNzIxOTEzNV8xNjE0MTU3MDIwNDA0MDk4NjAwX24uanBnP3N0cD1kc3QtanBnX2UzNSZfbmNfaHQ9c2NvbnRlbnQuY2RuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbSZfbmNfY2F0PTExMSZfbmNfb2hjPUhIcUx6YlZzTmxnQVgtMzh6NXYmZWRtPUFKQmdacllCQUFBQSZjY2I9Ny01JmlnX2NhY2hlX2tleT1NalU1T1RRek56WTFNVGMzTVRRMU1qYzVNdyUzRCUzRC4yLWNjYjctNSZvaD0wMF9BVC1FNnllRHJwOWE5am83U0RiMFhOdFdZUjNIWGVXeHJXYjFzRGJ0U0tnTldRJm9lPTYzMjk2RENBJl9uY19zaWQ9NzhjNjYy" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CS80BY9LNwk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="800" src="https://fetchnow.herokuapp.com/media?id=aHR0cHM6Ly9zY29udGVudC5jZG5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL3YvdDUxLjI4ODUtMTUvMjQwNDA3Njc2XzMwMzM3MjczNzAyNDIxOTRfNjg5MjA1MzMyNTI5OTM5ODE4NV9uLmpwZz9zdHA9ZHN0LWpwZ19lMzUmX25jX2h0PXNjb250ZW50LmNkbmluc3RhZ3JhbS5jb20mX25jX2NhdD0xMDYmX25jX29oYz1ydVhhMzBxTnVPVUFYOTZnZzlUJmVkbT1BSkJnWnJZQkFBQUEmY2NiPTctNSZvaD0wMF9BVC03Z3NxZjh2MXZZaXpGTHFYb0EzUVNPNzZ0LS1FODVvRC1IRUNjeWlha1ZBJm9lPTYzMjkyNUFFJl9uY19zaWQ9NzhjNjYy" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-21.785854536178846 -31.7770443 34.834613136178845 38.5354557tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-29989739636270777182022-09-06T13:12:00.002+01:002022-09-06T22:28:34.881+01:00Skin by Zaron Papaya Brightening Body Wash, for a Luxurious Clean <p style="text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifi0sTIhz0cluGZcnggS8A_nz9yjFdztX_YXnhNWezta6bGfjWdv9efP1V1TnyO4OEzJf71u0ws9Rv903VXB3nB8o6l-M7duPVXUU290ihzP4jPjIwhn6PhmwRiqRN9N_kXVmnUHy6zQQGBDTf2l7G_T9J2Zx7sopBMw24HUM1mL8CgHcNnmMz1x10/s16000/zaron-body-wash-skincare-barbara1923.jpg" /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">First and foremost, I would like you to know that there is a reason why brands say to use all the products in their range. It isn't always necessarily because that is the only way to use them, but because the products have been formulated specially to complement each other, ensuring you get the best result when used together.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">I'm a typical Nigerian girl with a fetish for bar soap and the long net sponge that comes in different primary colours. You can imagine how discombobulated I was with this. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">The <b>Skin by Zaron</b> Papaya Brightening body wash had me up turning a lot of my in-born thoughts regarding bathing, body cleansing and vindicating my 4-step bathing process honed from my developing years and has never failed. Don't worry, I'll explain. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><h3 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 1px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><u>What Zaron says it is</u></h3><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><blockquote><b>A creamy and soothing formula that cleanses, softens and moisturizes the skin.</b> Formulated with Papaya, Tea tree oil, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide and Aloe Vera, which all together brightens, hydrates, rejuvenates and cleanses the skin, leaving it smooth, supple, nourished and hydrated.</blockquote><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">Considering how old school I am with bathing, I spent the first week figuring out the best way to use this product that wouldn't involve wasting it and actually seeing some lather. These are the methods I tried</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><ol><li>Applying the Papaya Brightening Body Wash directly to the cute sponge that came in the PR package I received and then scrubbing my wet body with the sponge - <i>this didn't work because I think I had to reapply the wash onto the sponge about 10 times so it could wash my entire body</i></li><li>Replacing the sponge with exfoliating gloves - <i>this was better because the gloves have a way of maximising soap and ensuring it lathers. But I still had to reapply the wash to the gloves multiple times</i></li><li>Mixing the Papaya Brightening Body wash and water in a bowl and dipping the sponge in the bowl to wash my body - <i>this was ok except for the fact that I discovered I had to have almost equal parts gel and water to make it work</i></li></ol><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Eventually, I decided to try out my regular bath 4-step routine which is <b><i>wet my body, rub soap all over my body, scrub my body and rinse.</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I did, AND IT WORKED!</div><div style="text-align: left;">I must confess that maybe if I had read the instructions on the body of the product before using, I might not have had to go through all this, but in the same vein, I'm glad I did because it helped me discover all the ways the Papaya Brightening Body wash wouldn't work. <i>Win! Win!</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b><u>My Experience with the Zaron Papaya Brightening Body Wash</u></b></h3><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">There are 3 key things I noted in the 4 weeks I used the Papaya Body Wash - <b>the lather, the fragrance and the moisturising after-effect.</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWjcc8yx4-k0OX5EEnSlLP0aYsEG8jnUycUv27Co8yW9RwgIMxXBFTHfQsA5B8DkmrO9i7WGI-mkp91NIVZockhvXiiDQCLZzvkrmkz9UsTYxzjuUHApvbZ_LusaFLBfd4rxNXKaEQCUbwu3ZBxaxeTZqf1sKz2IJ-V39szYRX953a3xg-ZThSXTyI/s16000/Skin-by-zaron-papaya-brightening-body-wash-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I already mentioned my struggles with it right? But honestly, I'm a suds and lather kinda girl <i>(I think lowkey every Nigerian is)</i>. I struggled with not seeing enough lather when I eventually got the hang of it <i>(it lathers, but if you have been using a bar soap all your life and are used to the 'foam' that it produces, this will come as a shock to you). </i>But I eventually got around it and didn't bother too much with it as long as I was clean.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I hate strong, over-powering fragrance in the shower! </div><div style="text-align: left;">Regardless of the fragrance, I'm of the opinion that I'm supposed to be washing it off and smelling it strongly makes me feel like my skin is not clean. With this body wash, I was kinda looking forward to smelling the papaya in the shower, but it was so subtle as to almost not be there. The fragrance is light and almost forgettable which is perfect for me actually. Giving it another whiff, it really just smells like really nice soap. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The other thing I had to get around was the feeling of moisture on my skin after bathing. I've never liked the feeling of moisture on my skin and don't blame me because I grew up mentally registering <i style="font-weight: bold;">squeaky clean</i> as the standard for clean and that's what I blame. The moisture this leaves is not significant enough to cause me to be uncomfortable and is a really nice complement to the <a href="https://bit.ly/3OxnoRK" target="_blank">Zaron body lotion</a> I use daily.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>The last thing which I didn't mention as the 4th, is the fact that if you are ever in a hurry and need to have your bath in under 10mins, this is not the product to use, lol. </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">I say this not because you can't try, but because the product will be wasted and you'll not enjoy the experience of using it. I honestly and truly do believe that using this body wash in the shower is an experience best enjoyed slowly and not in a rush at all. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UChNxt2j_Q74XD9Un04sUun2tp8MPUTPdknbpV_KDounv-LRbomFci9FofGoKzaiNjj2tSjGtwmUJLaI0tl2h9OX90m0rF_nf0h8Ha-f5Q1Krv_Hz52uqZuXshbzxilbYbexsu9jz9bZhkawlKsWG4s3u6CI2-2caAZ0E-kyOXtlNYIxtAKxOMCs/s16000/Skin-by-zaron-body-wash-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>My absolute favourite part of using this product?</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">After 7 straight days of figuring out the best way to use it and being afraid that I had wasted the entire thing, I held it up to the light and saw that I had barely used a quarter of the entire thing. <u>I had barely used up to a quarter in 7 days of trial and error!</u> Awesome!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><u>My verdict</u></h4><div>If you would like to start using a body wash or want to try one to see how it feels and how to work around it, this is an <b>absolute must-have</b>. For me, the advantage of this was the fact that there was no wastage because I was quite worried that when I figured out how to use it, there would be nothing left. </div><div><br /></div><div>It works better with exfoliating gloves than with a sponge <i>in my opinion. </i></div><div>With the gloves, you'll feel the smoothness of your skin and the luxurious finish of the product.</div><div><br /></div><div>Did I mention that by the end of the 4 weeks, my skin was pretty much flawless? The back and upper arm acne I've had for a really long time now have disappeared and if I was a halter neck-wearing lady, I would have been sporting it confidently by now <i>*grin*</i></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1180" data-original-width="910" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_urXwzeNLO8qsUK6qvzetLcEd1YpODAZnjTBmC5VKyEKUdFjHBRv1u7mVbzpSQ9_r6N0pUImLP3NQMtHCjp-zmvZJIp1r0PnmBPkh1OSTaU94zJltbwP3dPsQFhnsmJw-Xisjfy3CmOUCo_PTLC4nNCJheyvc45WKLCjqyDVKguznEGNfXGTzCnZ/s16000/zaron-papaya-brightening-body-wash-barbara1923.jpg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What are your thoughts on the Zaron Papaya Brightening Body Wash? Have you used it? Are you more familiar with body washes and have more to say about it?</div></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6CM7W9MH+GM3.9338704999999989 -14.62082-13.307025773617143 -32.198945 21.17476677361714 2.957305tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-28091853667515022572022-09-05T23:02:00.003+01:002022-09-05T23:02:37.510+01:00Simple, Foolproof Skincare for Everyone | Arami Wander Series - Face Edition<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEgk2NM0lIFDy49Y9KZdMtf2iEWbmCHXu49QUPxWvtmIa8PbhTTF7qH8qEf22JUicKjNuX9neIaiHiUx5nOOvSA2HEZvt9wl74yVCt5QJyfiW8fCiImCfSobRRAD2uIXqw0As-G0LGiI4YMwWNAYYn6Kg52qphadonTBojZFJryu6TvACCcG_xaSx/s16000/Arami-essentials-wander-series.jpg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I like small objects. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ok, maybe that didn't come out right but what I meant was I like the small version of inanimate things. As opposed to getting a bigger, chunkier, version, I prefer a smaller, dainty option. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think that's one of the reasons why I always wanted to try out the Arami minis ever since they launched. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I did get to try them - 4 of them (which, if you follow me on Instagram, you'll know debuted my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/productsimlovingnow/">Products I'm Loving Right Now Series</a>). They are <b>Onyx Light, Eden's Elixir, Glow Scrub and Omni Oil. </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div>
<center><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CgOYCeLjHNk/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 3px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px 0px 1px 0px, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15) 0px 1px 10px 0px; margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0px; width: calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding: 16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CgOYCeLjHNk/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 0; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; 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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's great that I can use them all on my face but there's a bit more to them than that. That's what this post is about actually. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So here's the thing, I did try out these 4 products for 4 weeks and they turned out great. But after that, I still tried them out again and to my surprise, they were awesome. They really should be on everyone's favourites skincare list for 2 main reasons</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>A little goes a long way. I've used Onyx Light as a body wash more than once and I still have loads to go before the mini bottle finishes. </li><li>They are really easy to use. If you ever desired a product that was a practical version of 'Skincare 101 for Dummies', this is it. I'm yet to use the larger versions of any of these, but as minis, they are handy and literally foolproof - open, drip, use. It honestly can't get simpler than that with the liquid minis</li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>My Experience with the Arami Minis</u></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My first 4 weeks using them were in combination with the <a href="https://bit.ly/3RhYisI" target="_blank">Arami HLR drops</a> and it was a great experience which I shared. I dropped them for about 2 months while testing other skincare products and while I'm not sure which product or ingredient caused it, my facial skin became inflamed and started over-reacting. I had acne in my chin area, acne that hurt when I touched them, my skin became rough, got darker and there was an overabundance of dark heads in places they had disappeared from before. Even the in-grown hair bumps which had healed became inflamed again as well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I brought this up with an aesthetician friend of mine and after several days of going back and forth, we both agreed that I should just go back to the skincare basics - <u>cleanse, tone, moisturise and sunscreen. </u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The only products from the same range I had that could do this were the Arami minis and so I got them out of the pouch I'd packed them into and started reusing them again with the exception of the glow scrub (as I didn't want to irritate my skin). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 weeks went by and these products were still going strong. The only bottle that showed signs of finishing was Eden's Elixir but all others literally went on for over 2 weeks. In total, I used the minis for 6 weeks comfortably - morning and night.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><blockquote>I'm not sure there are any other products that can give you 60ml worth of product that lasts for 6 weeks. At least, I haven't used any but I'll be on the lookout for it and will definitely let you know. </blockquote></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>How I Use Them</u></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Like the step says - cleanse, tone and moisturise.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1748" data-original-width="1299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_Zu6AIu81AAHPzekFAEJUOovleZUA9BAKvwdLFmRhunn96HRqEiCAkKrilqzV0GTTWlD1Rc7l59dS7RU0u2oOinj9rLKqPQrTeunGBpb-rS8q7TmKTl_u1Fk4dhLeZqnUQHuHbzKfeSE0MyKIZXJpVyEUhq7__DPJZ-VGWSS0dtbQBI3Pk_AinK5/s16000/Arami%20essentials%20wander%20series%20face%20edition.png" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I always start out with <a href="https://bit.ly/3AQYZ4U">Onyx light</a> and use between 3 to 5 drops of it depending on what has been on my face i.e. did I just take off makeup, was I sweaty, did I go out or stay in? I have been known to use one drop on my face too. I lather this on my face and clean my face including my neck and chin area all the while counting down to 60secs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Out of the shower or after washing my face, I go in with <a href="https://bit.ly/3eiHmDn">Eden's Elixir </a>(I prefer to have my face still a bit damp but this isn't always the case), I then apply between 5 to 7 drops of it, using my hands to pat it into my face and neck. I then let it sit for at least a minute before going in with my moisturiser or Omni Oil.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In the daytime, I sometimes finish up with sunscreen after moisturiser but most nights, I go in with <a href="https://bit.ly/3RGG57D">Onmi Oil</a> after moisturiser to lock in the moisture. I sometimes apply it right after toner but ever since I discovered the added benefit of applying oil after moisturiser, I prefer to do it this way. In the morning, my skin feels really soft and supple. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://bit.ly/3KMa0sy">Glow Scrub</a> doesn't make as often an appearance as the others but when it does, it is usually after Onyx Light and before Eden's Elixir. I don't scrub my face often, especially now that my skin is healing. But usually, I use a scrub on my face when it feels rough and I need a little pick me up for extra skin oomph.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBZHz7Jb4bdDTZcBivBBUgj-K0JILqa9aNsl0ou8htY4QB5q-UsiUKq4-l2ZWExOiXwrduWGq26ojsJqhoCohtx0ATkqM2aop6obKvwK4pmep2Xk7oXzoonw_-tLcuAbNhrpp6Ixw1PV-lHDTY5_x0hW10hJsO-jXNC0OHBdaWpGX_Kd5RXVvv4PW/s16000/arami-omni-oil-edens-elixir-glow-scrub-onyx-light.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, this is me and this has been my experience with the Arami Wander series. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Is new to skincare</li><li>Needs a simple, super basic 3-step skincare routine</li><li>Wants bang for their buck but with the results </li><li>Wants to try out new Arami products first before committing to a larger size (with the amount of use you'll get from this, it is a semi-large size already, lol)</li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have you used any of the Arami minis? What did you think about them? How long did it last you?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></center></center></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-70.750067046129232 -137.2457943 83.798825646129245 144.0042057tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-986855426642037325.post-91543044263935577232022-08-18T11:37:00.007+01:002022-08-22T13:53:32.576+01:00How To Mix Old & New Products to create a modern makeup look<p style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2208" data-original-width="2208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupC2ehIMFqawaoTF1FcTusmzxgCbF9plqBO0skQILIXYMfxsscXnvFsQcWCADrBewNKuj9x6nVUy-3Ip1NZRlDDjpf3uwB1oMKp32SD9SX7sFoj0ycNwy14efYjOb1XV7f8SuI3wsn39Rk1yxDu-7Rd9ucIYRLQcTqNdm84mHD8uNCzDVQdHg7Fi7/s16000/old-and-new-makeup-together.jpeg" /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This happens A LOT! So I'm digging into my wardrobe or a number of stored-away items and I suddenly exclaim out loud. More often than not, it's usually because I've found something I either thought was missing, lost or had given out. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This happens to literally everything I own - clothes, books, makeup, skincare products, handbags and even jewellery. Not that it's any of my fault really, there is just never enough space to keep everything. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Imagine my surprise when I found I still owned a couple of <b>Orekelewa </b><i>(now House of Tara)</i> items. The best part? They still work fine and are still as gorgeous as when I first got them almost a decade ago <i>*covers face*</i></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2746" data-original-width="1808" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYNNElRwuEOREIMxdLG1gkQMMgfLt_TpxTFNJANu_KA7gaRZ8-DY33SU7N9WkRif3tKThX1XHwSl_FW4SrDr6etQQkOFyVw3f4Wm0h0ZxTfG8Hk6XgcG5aQCPQTZ_wm3XyVXpYHWH-bnTJcyXVyZNJfnwUC1Z1eJIA8bI8cOIJ2i5tXmknGeFzztR/s16000/old%20and%20new%20makeup%20barbara1923.jpeg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;">I decided to take the lip pencil I found from Orekelewa <i>(I could barely see the name - will share a pic on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/barbara1923/" target="_blank">@barbara1923</a>) </i>and incorporate it into a video as part of the #CorporateBeauty series for professionals.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Check out the video and a detailed product breakdown below</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q6EQdnfNvN8" title="YouTube video player" width="1000"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">blot cosmetics primer - <a href="https://bit.ly/3yq5pIb">https://bit.ly/3yq5pIb</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">blot cosmetics foundation - <a href="https://bit.ly/3Af3JCC">https://bit.ly/3Af3JCC</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">blk opl face & body concealer - <a href="https://bit.ly/3OSQjAA">https://bit.ly/3OSQjAA</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">blot cosmetics loose powder - <a href="https://bit.ly/3u7oqfJ">https://bit.ly/3u7oqfJ</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">zaron face definer - <a href="https://bit.ly/3nMdWPo">https://bit.ly/3nMdWPo</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">zaron cheeky blush - <a href="https://bit.ly/3nHNgj1">https://bit.ly/3nHNgj1</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">zaron volumising mascara - <a href="https://bit.ly/3ynrxBJ">https://bit.ly/3ynrxBJ</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">house of tara lip pencil - <a href="https://bit.ly/3Ii3Jn">https://bit.ly/3Ii3Jn</a>r</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comLagos, Nigeria6.5243793 3.3792057-43.22813055746667 -66.9332943 56.27688915746667 73.6917057