Kawaii Sweetz

Thayer's Peach Witch Hazel Astringent Review

Ju Lee Zhang — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:26:02 -0800

Ah finally, a review! Haven't done one of these in ages = P

If you follow me on twitter, then you know that I went and got myself some Witch Hazel. I believe the very informative Krissy asked me to do a review (Follow her! She's very knowledgeable with skin care, girl really knows her ingredients!)

So going on...I present to you, my new love:

This astringent seriously rocks my socks and I mean it!

Where I got it: VP Discount (a health food and nutritional supplement/vitamin store

How much? Not more than $10 USD and comes in a gigantic 12 oz. fl bottle! This will last months.

Why? I needed something gentle to help with oiliness and blemishes. I don't always want to rely on benzoyl peroxide (BP) as it can get pretty harsh and my skin can become used to its medication (for example: using too much BP can make your skin resistant to it, meaning it won't aid in fighting zits anymore.) Also, I wanted a more natural and simple skincare routine.

I use this after I cleanse my skin (I'm on the OCM- Oil Cleansing Method) and it helps to get rid of any remaining residue and fight blemishes with a more natural, gentler approach. I've been using it for about 3 weeks (excluding the time I had HORRIBLE Eczema-more on that on another post..) and have seen a major difference in my skin. I just pour a few drops into a cotton square and apply it all over my face avoiding the eye area. It has this cooling sensation and smells like peach candy, but the scent doesn't last. After a week's usage, my skin was much more even toned and even had this little glow to it. I felt like I could wear less makeup, a definite plus in my book. Taking a glance at the ingredients, it is not a miracle why this product worked for me.

This particular brand of witch hazel comes abundant with some very beneficial ingredients-most of them natural, such as extracts of kiwi, orange flower, passion fruit, tangerine and vitamin C. Despite that it has alcohol in it, which usually dries skin, it actually does not dry my skin at all. The alcohol is there to help preserve witch hazel, so most witch hazel you buy, you will see some sort of alcohol listed in the ingredients. Except, of course there are alcohol free ones, but they use other preservation methods, I prefer the traditional method though, the one with alcohol proven effective by doctors for years. Hey if it's good for them! Now I know alcohol is bad for even oily skin, but if you're like me and you add drops of jojoba oil to your moisturizer, then the drying shouldn't be a problem. So far I was adequately moisturized the entire time of usage and didn't experience any breakouts either. I recommend this to anyone who wants a more natural approach to their routine, especially if you have oily or even combination skin.

Rating: 4.8/5 I would still rather prefer it without alcohol though...will try the alcohol-free one once this is used up.

Buy Again? I will come back to it if the alcohol-free ones suck a$$ (psst I heard the alcohol free ones are on the oily side based on some reviews)

So that ends my review, hope that was helpful ^_^

BTW this isn't called kawaiisweetz without anything kawaii in it teehee!

Yogurtland cups sponsored by Tokidoki designs. SO FREAKING CUTE! Their yogurt (or soft serve) is similar to Menchies, although I still prefer Menchies LOL!

More posts to come! I have a huge collective haul I need to share with you gals!

Hello Everyone!

Ju Lee Zhang — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:39:14 -0800

Since I've gotten many new followers recently, I just wanted to get to know you all better. Please comment and tell me your names and whether I'm following your blog or not; I'd be really happy to discover new blogs! I want to follow everyone that is following me; let's be a happy family and help each other out ^_^

Speaking of helping each other, Jackie from jackiemiller is now an Avon lady! GO JACKIE! If you're in the NYC area and are looking for an Avon rep then you're sure in luck; help a gal out and visit her Avon page.

I will be catching up on posts after the testing period is over, so be sure to come back for some belated posts. I've got new reviews to share!

Hope everyone is having a good week so far!

And the winner is....

Ju Lee Zhang — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:14:18 -0800

Number 4!

Chosen from: www.random.org

That means you Dyan!

You won: NYX Smoking Eyes Palette, NYX lipgloss in beige, NYX blush in Silky Rose, Rimmel nail polish in Hypnotise, Creme false lashes in #13, stationary and hair pins. YAY FOR YOU! = D I really hope that you will love these products as much as I do, I was actually thinking of keeping the shadow palette for myself since it was the last one I found LOL!

(Oh and just for your information, I bought these all respectively for the giveaway. I'm not one of those bloggers that have things laying around, you get me? I wouldn't want to win other people's unused goods, so why would someone want to win mine? It's like saying, "Oh I don't like these anyway...might as well do a giveaway---LAME. All these products I use and love; trust me when I say that you will love them too.

Please pm your address so I can send you your goodies!

Thank you so much everyone for participating! I really enjoyed doing this! I love all my readers so much and appreciate that you take the time to come to my blog. Once again THANK YOU ALL! If you didn't win this time, don't worry! I will do another one in due time, only it'll be harder to win but with better goods ^_^ Teehee, I'm evil like that.

^_^

Ju Lee Zhang — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:21:56 -0800

If you haven't yet joined my giveaway, hurry! Time is of the essence! For rules and information, click on the linkie provided.

http://kawaiisweetz.onsugar.com/5949195

The winner will be randomly chosen tomorrow and announced on the 17th (Tuesday!)

Daily Essentials Tag

Ju Lee Zhang — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:35:33 -0800

I don't remember who tagged me, but whichever one of you lovely ladies did, please leave a link and I will post it! Thanks ^_^

On to the goodies:

Base Make

Grefas Silky Loose Powder, Revlon ColorStay Foundation, MAC Select Cover-Up, MAC Studio Fix + Powder Foundation

Why do I use 2 foundations? I don't...I use Studio Fix as a concealer or a concealer setter. The Revlon foundie I never used all over my face anyway, only on red spots. teehee!

Point Make

I think you all have seen most of these items a hundred times already. I'm sorry...I'm a creature of routine = P Basically, this is my lazy day makeup

The Tools

Wow...that's a really blurry picture. Sorry! MOst of my brushes are from Costco or Ebay. My lash curler is by Shiseido. I can't believe I have this much time on a lazy day to do all of this. Hmmm must reorganize!

So I know almost all of you ladies have been tagged sorry this post took forever and I hope you all have a great week! Thanks for reading!

Upcoming Posts

Ju Lee Zhang — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:16:13 -0800

Just wanted to share with all of my lovely readers what's new to come!

- Daily Essentials Tag

- Ord Noodles Food Porn

- Winter Skin Care Routine (inspired by Amanda: Fiend I love her blog!)

- Collective haul

- Very belated FOTD and OOTD

- New hair style and cut

- My New Muses

- What's in my bag?

Finally Found My Perfect Everyday Black Bag!

Ju Lee Zhang — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:35:45 -0800

Isn't she a beauty!?

Got it from Forever 21 ^_^

I think I need to do another 'What's in my bag' post teehee!

Giveaway Update

Ju Lee Zhang — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:04:58 -0800

I'm really liking the response to the giveaway, so there will be another one (but with better goods) when I hit 150 followers ^_^

If you've somehow been abducted by aliens or fallen off the face of the Earth and have no idea what I'm talking about, then here's the link: http://kawaiisweetz.onsugar.com/5949195

You still have 10 days until the drawing if you haven't yet entered so please do so! I look forward to announcing the winner on the 17th!

GOOD LUCK!

Belated Giveaway Celebrating 50+ Followers!

Ju Lee Zhang — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:49:38 -0700

The Prize

I love NYX, so NYX you get ^_^

Here's how to get this!

You must be a follower or subscriber of this blog.
Post my giveaway on your blog and put my link out; in other words, spread the love!
Comment on this post to tell me that you've done so and link me to your post.
Only one entry per person please! Repeated offenders will be disqualified.
Winner will be chosen randomly through a drawing. I will assign a number to your comment.

Contest ends November 15, 2009 12PM Eastern Pacific time

October Faves

Ju Lee Zhang — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:11:00 -0700

WHOA I have a lot of faves this month, or at least more than usual...

1. Grefas Silky Powder - I cannot rave more about this product. I use it everyday to set my face and keep the oilies at bay. It even cover minor flaws. I no longer need the coverage of a foundation when using this!

2. NYX Powder Blush in Peach - Since it's getting cooler here, I ditched Angel (a muted pink) for a brighter peachy pink color to bring warmth to my cheeks to give me that 'just came in from the cold' look.

3. Ben Nye Cake Liner in Black - What can I say? I stays on like no other powder liner. I apply it wet using...

4. Rohto V Cool Eyedrops - Relieves my tired eyes and doubles as liner setter. I like the slight cooling sensation.

5. NYX Round Lipstick in B52 - The MLBB lippie. I layer more on to intensify the color so it's more Autumn appropriate. This was also my August and September fave = P

6. Aquaphor Healing Ointment - I use this to prime my lips before using lipstick, it makes any color go on smoother and helps to get rid of flakes too. I also use it as a lip treatment for night time with my Burt's Bee's Honey Lip Balm. I wake up to smooth supple lips.

7. Wet n' Wild Kohl Brow and Eyeliner Pencils - Defines my brows and doesn't fade throughout the day. I use this in conjunction with my brow powder. Together they give me nicely arched brows.

8. CoverGirl Hydrofuge LashBlast Mascara - An HG for me ^_^ Volumizes without clumping. Gets every lash and makes my eyes more noticeable. Has over ruled my use of having 2 mascaras.

Hope you all are having a great week so far. I can't wait to see all your posts on your faves for this month ^_^ Oh I almost forgot...

Have a Happy Halloween!

Long Post: Grefas Loose Powder Review and some Food Porn Pics

Ju Lee Zhang — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 23:36:15 -0700

I believe some of you requested a review of the Grefas Powder so here it is! You ask, I deliver ^_^

Wow it took me forever to do this! LOL!

I read the desription for this on the website and apparently it has some very good properties such as marine collagen and elastin. I think this product is geared towards mature skin as it says that the powder was made to blur fine lines, moisturize, illuminate, and brighten the skin. Pretty cool as long as it doesn't clog pores and helps out in the oil control department. It comes in a pretty good sized container along with a sifter and a separataor for the cloth puff. I'm going to split this review into 3 parts.

1. My initial reaction: When I first tried this powder out, I was amazed! My skin looked absolutely flawless compared to my usual foundation and Palgantong theatrical powder. It actually covers minor scars and makes your skin feel super silky. I wore it for the day and did not even need to blot excess oil; my makeup also did not fade. Some of my regular customers even complimented me! So far so good...right?

2. After a weeks' usage: I started to notice that I was breaking out, but I'm not sure if it's from stress or this powder. Either way I still kept using it as the oil control was near awesome and I also noticed that my pores aren't as noticeable either. Not that it was shrinking my pores, but the powder itself gives a primer like finish I would say. I also noticed that if I put too much on, it would dry out my skin as compared to putting just the right amount. Pretty interesting...

3. Final Verdict- I'm still using this powder and have not gotten any new breakouts so it must've been stress.I think this powder will replace my foundation AND my setting powder because the coverage is pretty good for me considering my scars aren't anything substantial. I'm very impressed at its ability to control oil and blur flaws. Although I would have to add that people with dry skin should not use this as it can get pretty drying; that's probably the only con- it dries out your skin if you use too much. I just take a little in my powder brush, tap out the excess and swipe it over my face. Anyway, I love this powder and will have to ask my cousin to get me more once I run out! I'm not even sure how much this costs and I hope it doesn't cost a pretty penny!

More images:

Rating- 5/5

Buy Again?- YES!

Website for more info- Grefas

<Look at that! Isn't it the sexiest powder you've ever seen? I just want to throw myself into it, only I'll sneeze non-stop and probably die of foreign particles in my lungs. Oh yeah,I forgot to mention how finely milled and silky the powder is- so luxurious, hence the name Grefas Silky Powder

Hope you all enjoyed this review and found it helpful. If you have any questions feel free to ask!

On to the food porn! I know some of you love my food porn pictures despite the fact that I'm horrible at taking pictures of food. But hey, I try!

A group of my friends and I decided to visit a burger joint that suprisingly is NOT the infamous In n' Out Burgers. We headed to a place called The Counter, which specializes in cutom burgers or what they like to call it, 'Build Your Own Burger', where you customize your burger from the sauce to the meat all the way to bun and what types of veggies you want. It's a little bit expensive but since I was a first timer I was willing to go all out. Not on the pics.

The menu. You put a check mark on what you want in your burger. Pretty cool eh?

My Burger: Turkey burger with honey wheat hamburger buns, grilled onions, grilled red peppers, pepper jack cheese, spicy sour cream (?) and missing guacamole cause they forgot to give it to me -_- Bastards....You're also probably wondering, ".....Where the f@#$ are the fries Ju Lee?!" I simply forgot to take a picture of them, besides you all know what fries look like, you know... those artery clogging goodness? Yeah. Oh I also got a PB&J shake which was the highlight of my whole meal. BEST shake I've ever had!

The peep$

Yes I look like crap I know. I'm not very photogenic when someone else is taking my pic. Especially when the one taking my pic has the hotz for the guy next to me LOL. She only makes sure her baby looks good. He has what I call, credit card slot eyes and he's not even Asian! LOL JK Fern you know we luv ya!

Now after a savory meal we always treat ourselves to Sweetz.

PORTO'S!

Their famous cheese rolls! Lightly sugared crispiness on the outside, sweet cream cheese on the inside.

Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake

I couldn't help but take a bite...or 2. SORRY it was worth it! BTW it only looks messed up because I'm a crazy bitch on the road. Afterall, I just got Porto's and you better get the hell out of my way!

If you're in California you MUST go to Porto's! 'Nuff said! Then again, if you're a Californian, Porto's and In n' Out is just one of our many national treasures- when it comes to eatery that is. What is the one restaurant/bakery/cafe or food place that is significant in your countries? Do share!

Naime's and Walgreen Mini Hauls, Hitting pan... = * [

Ju Lee Zhang — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:21:14 -0700

Hey ladies and gents! I've been MIA with a bunch of homework. Sorry! I miss you all and have tried catching up on commenting so hopefully I made up for the absence...hopefully! Besides my busy busy worker bee lifestyle I managed to pick some items up when a class let out early unexpectedly or so. Here's what I got!

From Naime's (A beauty supply store that specializes in theatrical makeup). I got...

Ben Nye Cake Liner-in Black. I FREAKING LOVE THIS! I've been using MAC Showstopper (e/sLE) as a liner, but it always ends up on my cheeks. This powder liner stays and lasts! I just add a drop of my Rhoto V Cool eyedrops to an angle liner brush, dip it in and apply. It lasts longer than any liner for me as I have the oiliest lids ever! Anyway, HOLY GRAIL. I'm so getting my hands on other Ben Nye products in the near future as well. I'm eyeing their concealer wheels.

I also got this container to store my Grefas powder in as the original container was really big and fussy. It's really cute and compact but not too small. Basically, it's perfect!

Last but not least from Naime's, I got the Extra Gentle Wet Ones wipes. I use this to remove makeup in a hurry. I'm surprised it contains a lot of good skin care ingredients that are suitable to acne prone skin. It's very moisturizing, gentle, and effective. It even gets rid of waterproof mascara, but it takes a while to get it all off. Other than that, I love these! They're way cheaper than Pond's, you get more wipes, they're more effective, and the convenient container it comes in is awesome. LOVE.

I love Naime's they have everything you can ever need or want beauty or skin care wise! I even spotted a celebrity there: Tamara Mowry or was it it Tia? Not sure. No, I did not go up and say hi, I'm not a crazy fan girl! LOL! To me, celebrities are people too just more popular and more $$$. Either way Tamara/Tia seemed like a very sweet person and her skin was FLAWLESS and glowing.

Anyway, here's what I bought from Walgreen's

Rohto V Cool Eyedrops (in case you're wondering, yes it's a Japanese brand imported to the states). Disregard the hand cream...it's one of my products I'm running out of. =* [ I basically use this for my tired eyes since I'm always on the computer. I also use it to set my liner as stated above with the cake liner by Ben Nye. I think I got this idea from Michelle Phan in one of her videos...

Wet n' Wild Kohl Brow-Eyeliner in taupe and dark brown. Usually I just use powder for my brows, but decided to add pencil back into my routine to get a more defined look and to make my brows last throughout the day. The taupe one is great to fill in sparse areas that my powder does not help with. The dark brown one is for the ends of my brows. These pencils will last a while as they are super long and pretty pigmented. I love that they're only $1 each ^_^

Now on to my sad story....

My favorite blush and shadow have hit pan. NYX Angel Blush and MAC Satin Taupe Eyeshadow. T_T*CRIES AGONIZING TEARS THAT OVERFLOW THE YANGZTE RIVER*T_T

I've got more hauls to come, some food porn (possibly will be posted tomorrow), Grefas powder review, a honey-aloe mask tute, and a giveaway this Friday!

How I lighten my acne scars

Ju Lee Zhang — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 22:51:35 -0700

The acne surrounding my mouth is subsiding and now all I have to worry about is the hyperpigmentation left in it's wake. Luckily I have a plan for these suckers!

-In the morning I dot on some glycolic acid to speed up the regeneration process of my skin so the scars go away faster. Unfortunately, glycolic acid makes your skin very sensitive to the sun and without a proper SPF my scars will darken. = [. To counteract this, I use a non-greasy SPF 30 moisturizer and also try to stay out of the sun.

-Before bed time, I remove makup and cleanse my face with a face wash that contains AHA to help my skin's exfoliating process so I can shed the layer of dead epidermis. I dot Mederma or some honey on my scars for night time and leave it on like a mask ONLY on the affected areas. Honey is known for it's natural antibiotic and healing properties while Mederma is a topical solution to lightning and softening the appearance of scars.

*Every week I make a home-made honey and aloe mask, slather it on my face , leave it on for 15 minutes, and rinse off with warm water.>> I'm thinking of doing a tutorial and recipe of this for you all. Request it if you would like to see it <<

*3 times a week I exfoliate with a glycolic acid scrub VERY gently as to stimulate my skin to help with the healing process.

I now prefer natural remedies to ones filled with chemicals as they work best for me. So...

BE HAPPY, SKIN!

Belated August/September Faves and Random Pic Spam

Ju Lee Zhang — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:15:03 -0700

1. Avon Moisture Therap Hand Cream- If you like Nutrogena's Norwegian Formula Hand Cream then you'll love this! The tube is huge! The formula is so emoliant I use it on my heels, elbows and the soles of my feet and I'm left as soft as a baby's arse.

2. Aveeno Positively Radiant SPF 30 Daily Moisturizer- Not greasy, absorbs quickly, really protects and evens out my skin tone. LOVE!

3. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel- Great for night time with jojoba oil added to it. Absorbs quickly, deeply hydrates. Going to get a full version of this.

4. Forever 21 Pink Blush Brush- Such soft bristles OMG! Too big to use as a blush brush so I apply powder with it instead.

5 NYX lippie in B52- My lip color but enhanced. Great fall color, makes me look alive. Easy to apply and is not drying.

6. NYX Runway Palette in Romance- Great neutral colors for everyday.

7. CREME flase lashes in number 13- I don't use this everyday, but I love how light and comfortable they are. They're very flexible and are easy to apply, are natural looking too.

The blog place. I look so boring on my backside XD

Me and the little bro in Phuket, Thailand. I was 4 he was 2.

All the other Thai kids were sporting Coke T-shirts...Our family likes 7-UP, why? Because as Chinese traditions go, 7 is a lucky number. That's how Chinese we are, LOL. Also most Chinese are known to hate anything overly sweet (like Oreos, and this is a fact because the company that makes Oreo cookies actually had to change their recipe so it can sell in China. Go figure!), 7-Up wasn't as sweet as Coke so there you have it.

Belated Review, Tag, Food Porn and Grefas Powder!

Ju Lee Zhang — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 22:49:11 -0700

Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Glossy Shine Stick(s) in (from left) Mango Tango and Colada Love

Sorry for the bad picture quality! I'd rather think these are tinted lip balms but I guess you can say tthey're stick glosses too? IDK. Anyway, I got these babies for 2/$12 and am probably going to make my way over there to get more! They smell sooooooooooo YUMMY, are really moisturizing and just give that perfect hint of color. Like their names suggest, they're also very glossy which actually surprised me since most stick form glosses are rarely ever shiny/glossy. I've always wanted to get a tinted lip balm that was both shiny, moisturizing and actually gave me some color. Most tinted balm or stick glosses never deliver in the pigment and/or shine department ...well at least the one's I've tried. Also most tinted balms tend to have a grainy texture, but not these. I picked neutral colors of course, these are like my lips but better hehe. The only problem I have with this is the clear cap; it cracks easily and you can see stains on it if I'm in a rush to close it and accidenttally nix the product on the base of the cap. Since I'm a neat freak I'm always cleaning it and it's not easy to clean a narrow tube GRRR! If the cap wasn't clear I can just overlook this and not give into my anal tendencies. Either way they still are very cute and are an overall GREAT product!

Rating: 4.5/5

Buy Again?: YUP ME WANT MORE!

Product close-up and swatches.

I got tagged by saffie fiend and lxflickr! Thanks babes ^_^

1) What are your makeup item must have(s)?

eyebrow powder, concealer, face powder and my Burt's Bees Honey lip balm

2) Who was the first make up guru you watched on youtube?

Enkore

3) From the answer above, how did u stumble upon the person's channel?

I was perusing through makeupalley and someone mentioned how great Koren's video tutorials were so I youtubed him and VOILA!I love that man, he's just so wonderful and insightful!

4) How did you discover Onsugar?

Through Sara Kai of icyabstract. I found her channel first, then her blog link was in the descriptions and thus my blog was born. Onsugar was too cute to resist for me!

5) Who was the first onsugar blogger that you followed?

Sara Kai of icyabstract

6) Did you ever buy a make up item/tool which you end up not using or regretted buying?

Psh I can't remember how many times I've done that...I don't even want to backtrack; it's torture!

7) What do you usually carry in your make up bag?

My trusted burt's bees honey lip balm, MAC blot powder, some sort of gloss. I never touch up my eye makeup because it never budges.

8) If you found your Holy Grail (HG) product, would you stick with it throughout or are you willing to try on other products which might end up not suitable for you?

Well, usually old habits die hard for me especially if it's a very basic product (for example I've been on Burt's Bees Honey lip balm since it came out!). Now if it comes to things like mascara and lip gloss I can be a whore and not settle for the same one over and over again. I get bored of lip gloss like I get bored of men.

9) In your opinion which is more important, or rather which comes first, product quality or application technique?

Quality because no matter how you apply it, it still works! Application technique wouldn't matter if the quality of a product was lame because no matter how you apply it, it would still be lass than fabulous.

10) On a scale of 5, how 'important' is make up to you?
Hmmm...3 because I can never leave my house without something that makes me look alive yet I don't have to have on the full 9 either.

I think everyone got tagged already and besides I'm too lazy to add links LOL. Just got home from night classes and a test at that!

Next up: FOOD PORN!

Say hello to my Salami Pinwheels. Made these yesterday and they're so GOOD! I got the recipe from FoodGawker.com but I substituted the prociutto and dijon mustard for salami and cream cheese instead! If you are interested in the recipe then here is a link http://thecuttingedgeofordinary.blogspot.com/2009/09/proscuttio-pinwheels.html Mine doesn't exactly look like hers but it still tastes good. I think anyone can make this it's super easy!

My New Love

I've only used this today for a couple hours and I'm IMPRESSED! Review when I've used and tested this out for a bit.

Sorry if these pictures are stripper like...I couldn't help it.

LOL SO FUNNY!

Ju Lee Zhang — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:44:40 -0700

Video Games - E3 2009 - Attack of the Show

Thank You!

Ju Lee Zhang — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 23:41:31 -0700

I just wanted to say, to all my followers for taking the time to read my blog and leaving such kind comments. I couldn't be happier with my new friends. Also I want to thank those of you who have wished me luck on getting hired; Sephora has not called me yet, but I know they will after I double slam them with my resume and cover letter. They'd be missing out if they didn't have me on their team LOL! JK I'm sure there are other girls who are also deserving of a job there I just hope that I get recognized is all. An interview is really all I want, getting hired is just the cherry on top = P

BTW: If you have any tips and advice on how to carry on in an interview then do tell! I'm all ears ^_^

Oh! FYI: I've changed the layout...yet again, and I also added some new links and a new widget. Check them out when you get the chance!

Contest & giveaway will be hosted on October 30th. I know it's late, but bare with me please as I have a bunch of things I need to get taken care of first. You all know it would be worth it though!

Hair and Skin update

Ju Lee Zhang — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 21:10:06 -0700

My Hair Story

Lately I've been losing massive amounts of hair. It's like everytime I touch it, a handful would fall out. There's hair all over the place. I've never had hair on my pillow before and now everytime I wake up I see a sad ten or so strands next to my face. In the shower my hair clogs the drain! It's really scary and I've never had this much hair loss before. I don't know if it's stress or my hormones, but I decided to treat it with Queen Helene's Deoderized Garlic Shampoo and taking 2 Biotin tablets a day. Since I've just started, no results yet, but I did measure my hair by grasping it and noticed how much volume is gone T_T Hair is a woman's crowning glory, if I go bald I think I would have to be placed in an asylum!

I know you might think...."EW! Garlic shampoo? WTF?!" But it doesn't smell like Garlic at all because they've deoderized it. In fact the shampoo itself smells like baby powder. I used to use this years ago because it was gentle on colored hair (no sls) and it really worked. Now I'm back on it to see if it'll help me with the hair loss.Here's the product description:

[Stop finding strands of hair on your brush or in the sink. Pure deodorized Garlic Extract helps prevent excessive breakage and loss of hair. Relieve dry, scratchy scalp while enjoying stronger, fuller hair. See improvement after only a few washes. Get a head of hair you're proud to run your fingers through.]

As for the Biotin, it's a well known Vitamin B supplement that helps with hair growth. It is even said to help darken and grow lashes. We'll see about that!

My Skin Story

Despite the fact that I've been using Acne.org religiously my skin has broken out around my mouth hence why I'm not taking any pictures of myself or doing any FOTDs. I 've got a pimple, a few blemishes and a cystic zit that's taking a week+ to heal. I haven't gotten a zit this bad in ages. I'm wondering if my skin is getting used to the treatment or if it's the result of me being lazy and not taking care of my skin properly for even just a few days. Either way, I'm back on Acne.org full force, but it doesn't work as quickly as it used to. Then again I'm on that time of the month and also it's hot and humid so that could've also triggered my sudden onset of acne. I'm not sure, but I'm quite worried and I know it's going to leave a scar that's going to take even LONGER to heal...sigh. I hate my skin! Anyway, thinking of going back to taking Zinc supplements again to help! Hope it works...

Oh and I've decided to get the Vitacreme B12 instead of the Egyptian Magic Cream. Why? Because Egyptian Magic cream goes on thick and anything thick suffocates my skin which results in blemishes despite the fact that it's all natural. Thanks to the many people who reviewed it I finally made my choice = P. Vitacreme B12 wins because it absorbs quickly and penetrates deeper in the epidermis. I will get my hands on it as soon as I can and review it ^_^ Thanks so much for those of you who tried to help me chose! I really appreciate it!

WHOA! Long post LOL!

Food Porn! Also, other random pics...

Ju Lee Zhang — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 22:47:47 -0700

Dinner at El Torrito with friends

Grilled Chicken Taquitos with chipotle sauce, salsa roja, and green rice. I just love Mexican food!

A maragarita YAAAAAAY!

Dessert: Chocolate cake with cherries. This is from Red Ribbon bakery though not El Torrito.

Say hello to the new phone, I HEART THIS THING!!! It saves my life with GPS, full QWERTY keyboard, not to mention I'm so much more organized because this is my new planner = D... >= [ too bad I put a big damn scratch on it already! AND it's only 3 weeks old! That's what I get for buying a touch screen I guess teehee.

Oh and one more thing....

ROCK LEE RULES!

= D Personal updates, mini haul, and new school bag from LovelyShoes.net

Ju Lee Zhang — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 22:33:53 -0700

I applied at Sephora!

Wish me luck ladies ^_^

It's about time for me to start something new; something that I'm actually interested in doing. I hope I at least get an interview!

Mini Haul

Victoria's Secret beauty rush Glossy Shinestick in Colada Love and Mango Tango. Review on these later. So far, I'M LOVING THEM!

So I got tagged a while back by none other than Shanghainese Dumpling to do a What's In My Bag tag. And what better excuse for me to show you what's in my NEW bag = P

Remember this from a previous post?Well it took like 3 weeks to arrive and when I finally got it it looks like this:

Sorry for the bad quality!

Not exactly the same (especially material-wise), but nonetheless very similar and I'm still happy with it. Though I will never purchase from them again. Why? EMS shipping is crazy expensive and took 3 weeks to arrive. Also even though I really like the bag, it's not worth all that $$$. Keep in mind I don't regret this purchase because I knew it would benefit some of you who thought of ordering from this wholesale site, but haven't yet because of doubts or for any other reasons. So there you go, I did you all a favor, ain't I nice? = D

On to the GUTS!

Below: In my makeup bag, I also use my makeup bag as a pencil case. Well if it has double compartments....

You like?

Thanks Ena for tagging me! Sorry it took me forever to do this LOL!

Pick one...

Ju Lee Zhang — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 21:42:00 -0700

Egyptian Magic Cream

Vitacreme B12?

New HG Mascara and Awards ^_^

Ju Lee Zhang — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 19:39:52 -0700

First, on to the awards!

I got this tag from Shanghainese Dumpling ^_^ Thanks Ena! Do visit her site, I'm a daily stalker LOL!

Rules:

1. Thank the person who nominated you for this award.
2. Copy the logo and place it on your blog.
3. Link to the person who nominated you for this award.
4. Name 7 things about yourself that people might find interesting.
5. Nominate 7 Kreativ Bloggers.
6. Post links to the 7 blogs you nominate.
7. Leave a comment on each of the blogs letting them know they have been nominated.

7 Things about me that you might find interesting

1. I hate the smell of durian...HATE!

2. I'm a mascara whore...I have 5 full tubes right now, go figure. I just love trying out new ones to finally land on my HG and I think I've found it = D

3. I have a younger bro who looks anorexic, cooks very well and is an arrogant, disrespectful, selfish, little prick (of course I say that with love ^_^)

4. I have never met some of my Chinese relatives. Only the Chinese relatives who have immigrated to Thailand.

5. I don't speak or understand a word of fujian/theo chew, my father simply never taught me and my Thai is sketchy, I probably can't barter for goods in Thailand to save my life. I do want to learn mandarin someday though, if that's even possible for a 24 turning 25 year old LOL!

6. I can never hold on to a relationship for more than 2 months and the reason is because I'm a tool magnet!

7. I'm OBSESSED with Disneyland! I don't know if I've mentioned that in other posts teehee.

I'll nominate...

And another award = D

I got tagged by facesbysarah, saffie, littlefrozengirl, fhy, and heavenlygorgeous and I took my SWEET ASS time to do this LOL! I'm not going to do any interesting facts because I'll be repeating myself anyway. Either way, thanks to those who nominated me! I very much appreciate this award = )

I tag

Shanghainese Dumpling

Shop N' Chomp

Um...that's it? LOL The people who I tagged for the kreativ award are also tagged again for this one hehe.

MAN THIS POST IS LONG! Get to the point already JuLee! Show us the goods!

Ok...drumroll please

I've finally found my HG American branded mascara!!!!

I LOVE THIS BABY!!!!

I've seen so many good reviews on this and simply never caved in because I was never a big fan of any CG mascaras in the past. Luckily this baby was on sale from it's usual price of 8 bucks to $6.99 so I got it ^_^ and am the happiest camper EVER! It even beats all those Japanese mascaras that I coveted, for srs! Since I'm sure most of you have seen reviews of this; I think I'll spare you an eyesore and will only do a review on it upon request. I wish I can show you pictures of what it does for my lashes, but my camera's resolution cannot capture good detail. Unfortunately for all of you = P So anyway this mascara is the shit and I can't believe I've been without it for this long. For those of you who haven't tried it, please go to the nearest CVS and cave. CAVE DAMMIT! JK, do as you please, I can't guarantee that everyone will get good results as did I, but it doesn't hurt to try. Anyhoots it's back to doing more homework for me. I hope you all are doing well and BIG sorry for the hiatus haha!

Update

Ju Lee Zhang — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 22:51:57 -0700

MIA UNTIL NEXT WEEK...

School has been a pain in the a$$ lately, so please bare with me. I'm a full time student afterall...

I know I have a lot of tags to do, a giveaway, and all that jazz so stay tuned!

What you can look forward to:

1. Hauls/ food porn/reviews

2. New phone pics

3. School LOTD

4. Contest/Giveaway

5. In my school bag tag

6. Gorgeous Blogger Award

7. Kreativ Blogger Award

Of course I'm not posting these all in one time I have homework to do which takes way too much time, especially away from blogging!

Tag: My Daily Beauty Routine and a Haul

Ju Lee Zhang — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:46:50 -0700

Got tagged by Ena Pang of Shanghainese Dumpling to do this ^_^ Thanks for the tag hun!

Morning Routine

Cleanse, tone, treat, and moisturize

-I use a gel or foam cleanser such as Neutrogena's Oil Free Acne wash to rid of sebum from the night before

-After I dry my face I spray Evian on and add my Acne.org treatment to prevent acne

-When 5 minutes have passed and my treatment has absorbed I add Jojoba Oil to my Aveeno SPF30 Positively Radiant Moisturizer and apply all over the face to moisturize.

Night time routine

Remove makeup, cleanse, tone, treat and add AHA (to prevent wrinkles and tone down uneveness),moisturize!

I forgot to add my makeup remover towelettes, eye makeup remover, and my eye cream...whoops LOL

-With dry hands and dry face I smear some cleansing oil on to my face to remove any lingering makeup and the SPF 30, since sunscreens are notoriously hard to remove and have the ability to clog pores, the only way to get it all out is with a cleansing Oil. I am using Kracie Naive Deep Cleansing Oil.

-Wash off the cleansing oil and while my face is still wet, I wash any remaining residue with Neutrogena'S Oil Free Acne wash.

-Spray Evian after face is patted dry to tone and ready skin to accept proper moisturization.

-Dab on eye cream (not pictured) I use Avon's Luminosity

-Treat with Acne.org and follow up with AHA, this renews skin during night time

-Again, I add jojoba oil to a gel moisturizer to moisturize after the treatment has absorbed

What I use on a daily basis for point make. I swear it's like I never get new makeup LOL!

I don't use the foundation for all over my face, only as concealer to cover up unsightly spots!

-Conceal with Revlon's ColorStay Foundation

-Set concealer with loose powder, I use Palgantong, a Korean brand

-I shade and shape my brows with brow powder by Kanebo Media

-NYX Guru eyeshadow palette is used for the everyday wash of eye color. I like the color in the middle best!

-I line my eyes with a black gel liner, curl my lashes and apply a volumizing mascara

- NYX Angel blush and Beige lip gloss are my finishing touches!

WHEW! LOL!

Been meaning to do that tag for awhile

I Tag

Fiend

educatedbiatch

heavenlygorgeous

feistyskies

saffie

treehouseglory

tiarabangs

AND EVERYBODY else who wan'ts to do this tag! Have fun gals!

HAUL

I stopped by for a gander at Amuse (a Korean owned accessory store) and Forever 21

Top left: Nose cleansing pack, NYX lippies in Sky Pink and B52, bottom:NYX Runway Palette in Romance

Image to your right: Hello Kitty portable tissues (got these cuz they're so cute!) and a Forever 21 pink powder brush.

These AWESOME lashes!!!! I love these so much; so cheap and made of real hair! I will be getting more for my giveaway ^_^ So look forward to it!

Hope everyone is having a good weekend!

Beauty Tag

Ju Lee Zhang — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:21:12 -0700

This is the longest tag I've ever done, for serious!

SKINCARE
1. How many times do you wash your face daily?

2x a day, morning and night
2. What skin type do you have? (dry,oily,combo)

combo and oily. sometimes dry

3. What is your current facial wash?

Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash, I always come back to this.
4. Do you exfoliate?

No I don't believe in it, at least not anymore
5. What brand do you use?

Neutrogena, Kracie, Aveeno, Avon, Olay, Acne.org, Lubriderm, Burt's Bees, WHEW that's alot!
6. Is it really important to moisturize?

HELL YEAH!
7. How often do you moisturize your face?

Every 2-4 hours with Evian
8. What moisturizer do you use?

Right now, Aveeno Positively Radiant Moisturizer with SPF 15

9. Do you use sunscreen?

All the damn time All over my face All over my body...OH YEAH!
10. What is your favorite skincare line?

Acne.org!

11. Do you give yourself regular facial treatments?

I give my self sheet masks every now and then.
12. Do you have freckles?

Yes, everywhere! Even there! NOT!
13. Do you use eye cream?

I have to unless I want to look like a panda
14. Do you or did you have acne prone skin?

I used to but not anymore! Thanks Acne.Org! Hey Dan you should pay me for endorsing! JK!

15. Did you ever have to use Pro-active?

Nope, way too overpriced besides Acne.Org is better! (I should get paid a dollar every time I mention Acne.org I'd be a rich bitch!)
16. Do you use a mask? And what do you use?

Queen Helene Mint Julep mask, Beauty Diary sheet masks
17. Which celebrity do you think has good skin even without makeup?

Natalie Portman and Liv Tyler
18. One skincare routine that is a MUST for you?

Cleansing Oils to remove makeup thoroughly

19. Why do you think we should take care of our skin?

Because as we age our skin loses its defenses. Since it is the largest organ in our body and the first protection we have against microbes we must keep it as healthy as can be to ensure an overall healthier body.

MAKE-UP
1. What foundation do you use?

Revlon's ColorStay- a favorite of many
2. How about concealer?

MAC Studio Fix+ Powder and Revlon's Foundation is enough to cover my flaws
3. Do you know your undertone color?

Golden-peach? Ok no

4. What do you think of fake eyelashes?

They complete a daring look but in the long run aren't very good for your natural lashes. That's why you use them only on occasions not everyday! Plus they're a BITCH to apply.

5. Did you know that you are suppose to change your mascara every 3 months?

PSH! I change my mascara more often than that simply because I'm always on the search for my HG and I'm a whore for new products
6. What brand of mascara do you use?

right now B&C, a Japanese brand and Maybelline Lash Stilleto
7. Sephora, drugstore or departmental store?

ALL/Any
8. Do you use mac?

Yup
9. What makeup tools do you use in make up application?

My brushes from Costco, CVS and Ebay

10. Do you use make-up base/primer for the eyes?

No, I never have a problem with creasing shadows

11. For the face?

No but I'm thinking of getting a base to try
12. What is your favorite highlight powder?

I don't highlight, too lazy

13. Contour?

Again...too lazy

14. What is your favorite eyeshadow (color or shade)?

I love Taupes, they give you a simple smoky eye for day, add a darker color in the crease and you have an evening look.

15. Do you line your eyes?

What Asian girl in their right mind doesn't?

16. Tightline?

No, I have allergies so it would only smudge.
17. Do you use pencil or liquid eyeliner?

liquid and gel, pencils smudge on me

18. How often do you poke your eyes with an eyeliner pencil?

Once, my best friend was right next to me and was trying to see what I was doing and then BAM!

19. What do you think of pigment eyeshadows?

I really like them but only on days I have time to fiddle around with them
20. Do you use mineral makeup?

I used to but the bismuth in it made me break out
21. What is your favorite lipstick?

NYX Thalia

22. How about lipgloss?

NYX Beige
23. What blush do you use?

NYX Angel and MAC Petticoat

24. Type or brand or name?

NYX , MAC, Fyrinnae
25. Do you buy your makeup on ebay?

Yes occasionally
26. Do you like drugstore makeup?

Some, I usually have to do reviews first
27. Did you ever consider taking make-up classes?

Yeah but realize I can just turn to some Youtube makeup gurus for that!

28. Are you clumsy in putting on makeup?

I don't consider myself to be...
29. Name a makeup crime that you hate

Cakey foundation and tatooed on brows that look fake. Also I hate drawn on brows that have too long of a tail or are too wide apart that it makes one look like a dumbass.
30. Do you like colorful shades of makeup (lipstick,eyeshadow) or neutral ones?

Neautral but I'm trying to get used to color on the lips.
31. Can you share a make up trick that you know?

I coat my lashes with loose powder then apply volumizing mascara to the base and a fiber rich lengthening mascara to the tips to make them appear really full and long, like false lashes. This is one reason why I RARELY use false lashes now.
32. Which celebrity always has great make up?

Jessica Alba
33. Can you make a "cat eye" wing?

Yes but since people tell me that I already have cat like eyes I steer away from them but I can make them
34. If you could leave the house using just ONE make up item,what would you use?

concealer, perfect skin is a must any day
35. Could you ever leave the house without any makeup on?

HELLZ NO! I need at least brow powder and concealer

36. Do you think you look good even without any makeup on?

I look like shit without makeup on!
37. In your opinion, what is the BEST makeup line?

NYX- cheap and good, that's how I also like my men...JK LOL
38. Would you ever consider permanent makeup?

yes but only if it's by erabelle. I would consider getting my brows done since they make them look super natural

39. Have you ever work in a cosmetic line?

No but I would love to! I would actually like to work for NYX! Maybe I should put in a resume = P