What is toner?

For a while now I've been wondering what toners are and if I should get involved with them. I'm by no means an expert, but I've tried doing some research and decided that I'd try to put something together that might help some of you!

What is a toner?
     A toner is another step in your skin care regimen. You use it after cleansing and it generally comes in a liquid form. Some need to be shaken up to mix the separated chemicals inside. You apply it on a cotton pad an sweep an even layer on your face. They can remove excess makeup, minimize the appearance of pores, remove excess oil, lock in moisture and even reduce the appearance of acne.

Not all toners serve the same purpose

• Toners for dry skin act to lock in the moisture of the cleanser you use. It helps to reduce the amount of moisturizer you would normally need to use. These work well with milk cleansers.
• Toners for oily skin act to remove any residue that might create more oil on your face. Be sure to look at the label on products. If you're a dry skin tone and use something meant for oily skin tones, it will actually make your skin even drier than it already is! Not good.
• Toners for combination skin act to hydrate areas that are dry (ie. cheeks) and remove excess oils leftover from areas that are oily (ie. T-zone, or forehead, nose, chin).

Alcoholic components in toners

     Toners may contain a certain amount of alcohol while others may not. It would be a good habit to check the contents of the product to see how much alcohol it may contain.

• Fresheners contain little to no alcohol. They're gentler on the skin and are better for sensitive or dry skin tones. 
• Tonics are the middle ground. They contain a small amount of alcohol (up to 20%). They cover a wide range of skin tones; normal, combination, and a controllable oily tone.
• Astringents contain 20-60% alcohol and should only be used on very oily skin tones. Be sure to only apply astringents on your problem spots. They are very drying and should be avoided by normal, dry and sensitive skin types.

Natural alternatives

• Rosewater (freshener) for sensitive, dry and normal skin types as it is gentler on the skin.
• Orange flower water  (tonic) for normal, combination and oily skin.
• Witch hazel (astringent) for very oily skin.

     Not everyone needs to use a toner. Some cleansers don't leave residues on the face, or already provide the benefits listed above. I would encourage further research on toners if you're interested. A good place to look would be the websites of the brands you like to use, as they will likely carry toners as well. Some websites even have online surveys where you input your skin type and it creates a list of products that may work for you.

I hope this helped a little. Feel free to leave a comment if you have anything to add, or have found a particular toner that works for you (but please be sure to share your skin type!).

Until next time!

Happy New Year!

New Lappy!

So today something really nice happened!
My boyfriend bought a new laptop for Christmas because his relatives only gave him money this year.. and he wanted to upgrade. He gave me his old laptop! (((o(*ﾟ▽ﾟ*)o)))
I'm super happy because his old laptop is a gaming laptop, so now I won't have lag when I play my PC games! It has a larger screen too.. it's really nice. (///ω///)

So now I can play even more games!
If you play League of Legends, my username is TheSweetBean
If you're on Steam add me as Calael
Let's play together!! ヽ(*´∀｀)八(´∀｀*)ノ

Hanekawa Tsubasa [Bakemonogatari] 1/8 figure

My boyfriend bought this for me this Christmas! As you may know, I've been coveting this figure for about a year now.. as soon as I saw it online I knew I had to have it!

You're able to change her hair so that the cat ears don't show and her glasses are removable.

The first thing I noticed about this figure was the unique base! It really sets her apart from the standard figure. I also loved the movement in her skirt and her hair. She isn't my favourite character from the series, yet I find I enjoy this figure more than my Senjougahara one!

That charm on her phone is adorable! I would kill for one so cute ;w;

 I also love her expression. I think it's a mix of mild curiosity and a sense of awareness. She knows someone is looking at her, but doesn't seem too worried about it. Her cat ears are also very cute and appealing.

 This is another point that caught my eye when I first saw this figure. The way her skirt lifts up is very teasing and the casual hand she places to keep it from exposing her is also very aggravating. I also love the detailing in the lace. I think it's a good amount of thigh and exposure without being too raunchy.


While the pose may not make sense at first (as a schoolgirl should be a little more worried that her panties might be seen), I think it actually plays off an interesting part of Tsubasa's character. She is shown at a time when she hasn't completely transformed into the cat demon yet. While it's true she seems unguarded in her appearance, her human side still places a hand down to cover her skirt and keeps a wary eye focused to any onlookers. Her cat-like side keeps her posture straight and confident and the blush out of her cheeks. I think this play between her personas really completes this figure and makes it one of the best that I own so far.

Until next time!

DTAC 2011

So last Sunday was DTAC! It was very special though since it also marked MOETRONcos' 1 year anniversary!

We cosplayed as the girls from K-ON! once again but as the moe moe kyun maid ver.!

(the maid kakashi is a friend form high school, who isn't a part of MOETRON.)

What a bunch of lovely girls!
While the convention itself was a let-down (cramped space, no events, horrid security, rip-off entry fees and cramped dealer's room), I still feel like I made the most of it! These girls are so wonderful and spirited, that we made the most of a crappy convention anyways! (in pic: [top left-right] Sachie, Ringo, Jean, myself. [bottom left-right] Carmen, Chibatsu.)

Before the convention, Sachie and I went to the Eaton's Centre for some pre-con holiday shopping! I bought some stocking stuffers for my family. The mall was all decorated with huge trees and reindeer!

I don't have many girlfriends, so spending time with such cute girls makes me so happy! I want to go on a huge shopping day with all the MOETRON girls sometime!

Before everyone else came, Sachie and I also exchanged our xmas presents which were these cute cat kigurumi!

aren't they cute?! Now we can wear these to cons when we need something to relax in on a Sunday!

Annnnnnnnnd the photoshoot pics from Thomas Truong!

We have the best group ever. Don't you agree?

While I don't think Ritsu suits me, I do like trying to portray her and hanging out with my friends. I look forward to more exciting years with all of my waifus!

Thank you.

Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream no. 13

Another BB cream review for you!

Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream no. 13 'Milky Beige'!

This is another very popular brand from Korea and is the lightest shade currently available. (I believe the darkest shade is no. 31) You can check this on the Missha website!
I bought this in the 20ml size, but it can also come in a 50ml size with a pump!

The 20ml one comes with a standard nozzle, so it's still hygienic!

This is definitely a lighter shade than most BB creams I've seen. Just remember that it oxidizes to match your skin tone properly!

Packaging: Sophisticated. You don't have to feel embarrassed having it on your vanity.
Coverage: Medium (yet buildable).
Hydration: Medium. My skin felt soft for the whole day, yet I feel the Skin79 VIP Gold to be more hydrating.
Long Lasting?: Fairly.
Scent: Yes. Although it doesn't bother me and I am very sensitive to scents.
Ease of Use: Very easy (a little goes a long way!)
Range of Shades: Good. More than most BB creams I come across. I believe there are currently 4 shades that go from very fair (13) to tan-ish (31). Still, BB creams are marketed towards Asians, so finding darker tones are still very hard. 
Availability: Unless you're in Korea, it's fairly limited. You can buy online though!

Out of the 3 that I've tried so far, I like this one the best! It feels like what I imagine a BB cream should feel like. It gives me a more even tone, and with a little powder I feel like I don't need to wear foundation. It's like my actual skin, but better?

Until next time!

Exams and DTAC 2011

I haven't done a daily post in a while! I finally have some time to jot things down..

This past month has been a little crazy! November and early December is always crunch time for post-secondary students because all of the profs give the largest assignments at this time and exams are very stressful. Around this time each year I stop eating properly and my bad habit of chewing my cuticles gets out of hand. I'm usually a wreck!

I'm an English major, so writing many essays is a no-brainer for me. I'm starting to learn how to crank them out like a boss when I know the subject well enough. It's mostly my procrastination that gets to me. I get so worked up about not working on the things I need to, but end up on tumblr and twitter anyways..!

I still get all of my work done though. Hehe.
 
Today I just finished my last exam for the week! I have another one on the 21st, yet I feel like I'm already on holidays. I can't wait for Christmas since it's also the time of my little brother's birthday and my Nana and Papa's wedding anniversary! I miss my family..

It's not all bad though! This Sunday I get to see all of my lovely waifus from MOETRNcos! We're going to be in a huge group of K-ON! girls wearing maid outfits, ready for your service! (lol) Of course I will be playing Ritsu. Please look forward to more pictures and stories on this year's DTAC in Toronto!

Until next time!

BB Cream Review: Skin79

Hello everyone! I have something exciting to share with you today!

I managed to get my hands on some BB cream to try! I've been wanting to try out BB cream for a very long time now. I've heard so many great things about these products but was always nervous to try them out because it's suited for asian skin types and tones mostly.

Before I begin, I'd like to say that I have dry, fair and sensitive skin.

Because I know every review explains what BB cream is, I'll just be lazy and post a link for you here if you're interested.

Today I will be taking a look at Skin79's Super+ BB cream Triple Functions and Super+ BB cream in VIP Gold.

These are both 2g packages you can order online here. Some of the proceeds also go towards breast cancer! Free shipping and super cheap, so if you're interested in BB creams, but have no where to try them close by, then this is the perfect way to try it out! This brand is also very popular.

Even though the package is only 2g, it was WAY too much. Each one of those drops on my hand could cover my entire face on its own. Unless you have a way to store the excess, the open package will dry out and ruin the product.

Sadly these BB creams only come in 1 shade. The idea is that it oxidizes to match your natural skin tone (However it still carries some of its own pigment even after oxidization.) THE COLOUR THAT COMES OUT AT FIRST WILL NOT BE THE COLOUR THAT YOU WEAR. This is why it's important to test it with a sample if you can.

I was a bit discouraged to see the colour on my hand, but after applying it on my face and letting it sit for a little bit I was happier with the tone. I still think the colour is too dark for my face though. (Especially if I'm wearing a tank top like today.. the contrast between my neck and face are too noticeable lmao) In artificial lighting it isn't so bad.. but I'm inclined to search for other BB creams that appear lighter on my skin.

I think half of the problem is that I have lots of freckles. (Years of not putting on sunscreen has made my skin tone look uneven.)


VIP Gold vs Triple Functions:
Now, I can't speak for their apparent long-term effects since I only have testers, but I can say that the VIP Gold made my skin feel SUPER soft for the rest of the day. In fact, my boyfriend noticed that my skin looked softer.

They both prevent/improve wrinkles, whiten (not like bleaching) the skin and have SPF 25 PA++.

The VIP Gold is meant for those with dry skin who need more moisture. It's made with gold and caviar included. It's meant to hydrate and improve elasticity in the skin.

The Triple Functions (hot pink container) is meant for those with oily to combination skin. The formula is definitely more dry than the VIP Gold. It's made with sunflower and ivy extracts.

Because I have dry skin, I wasn't really interested in the Triple Functions because it was meant for oily skin. However if you lean toward the oily side, then I would definitely recommend to at least get the testers. Tell me what you think!

Pros:

• They feel lighter than a foundation and provide SPF for sun protection. (Among everything else they do)
• They provide medium coverage. (You might still need a concealer for trouble spots but they still even out your skin tone.)
• Packaging is super cute.
• The 50ml size has a pump. Hygienic.
• Shortens the amount of time to get ready for the day. (less steps)
• Easy to apply with (clean) fingertips.
• A little goes a long way! (Value + Quantity = Happy university student)

Cons:

• Only one shade. 
• Appears a little grey at first. You have to wait for it to set.
• You have to (should) try it out first before buying the full size.  (Link above for website where I bought the samples)
• Hard to get locally if you're not overseas. (Or if you don't trust online shopping)

And that's it! If you've tried this product before, or have any questions about this product in general, please comment below!

Until next time!

K-ON! Maid cosplay

My maid cosplay came in!

I was really worried because DTAC is drawing near and I was afraid it wasn't going to fit (it only came in one size).

 The sun was too bright so I had to close the blinds... which created some weird shadows.

And a full body shot taken in front of my dusty mirror lol
I was so excited that it came in that it's still a little wrinkly.

Please look forward to more photos taken with MOETRONcos at DTAC 2011!

Until next time!

Shatter nail polish by O.P.I

Hi everyone! Today I'll be showing you guys the shatter nail polish I bought recently!
If you haven't heard of this nail polish yet, then let me enlighten you: You put a coat of this special polish on your nail to create a 'cracked' look. The polish separates when it's drying to create a unique look on each nail. It comes in many different colours and looks very cool when applied on top of a solid shade.

This polish is good for creating an edgy look and it will always look different! And because there are tons of different colours, it doesn't always have to look dark. (I just took these pictures at hallowe'en, but you can switch it up)

(I also got it in blue, which I'll post some pictures of some other time.)

The only complaint I have is that it can be a little messy when it 'cracks' (as you can see form the picture above). Also, you can see that it stripped some of the green polish from my index finger, although I'm sure it might react differently with other brands or polishes..
It dries very quickly so be sure to apply it in one or two even coats! Also, be sure to let the base colour (in this case green) dry completely before applying the shatter polish on top.

I find it very interesting and it's no wonder it's a popular polish! I'm glad I'm finally able to try it for myself now haha.

Until next time!

Nina by Nina Ricci

I remember seeing the advertisement in a magazine when I was younger and actually went out of my way to go to the store to smell this fragrance. I think half of the novelty of perfumes is the bottle. I thought the apple shape was so enchanting and beautiful.. it was only a bonus that the perfume is actually one of my favourites!

I managed to get a really good price on it because there are some sellers that come set up shop at my school sometimes outside of the caf. They usually have huge discounts on some nice items! I was so happy that I found this because I know Nina Ricci's released some other fragrances and I couldn't find this particular one near where I live.

Because Sephora.com can explain the scent better than I can, I referred to their website which describes it as "combining temptation, femininity, and modernity. It's a fresh, fruity floral sprinkled with a tantalizing accord".

I think you get a good amount for what you pay for and it lasts for a good part of the day! It wasn't too strong, but I still felt a little sexy. I think it's a wonderful blend of playful and seductive scents! (plus it'll look really nice on your dresser; it looks super luxurious without being over the top.)

If this seems like something that suits you, then I would totally recommend it! If you have any of the other scents, tell me below if they're any good! I'd like to know.

Until next time!

a weekend of animal crossing

I went over to my boyfriend's place this weekend! It was a nice break from all of the work I've been doing recently... I played a lot of games and ate a lot of good food~

He goes to Humber College in Toronto.. but his room is really small!! I couldn't fit it all in the frame lol It's actually a lot cleaner than my room is though..

 I made a character in Animal Crossing: City Folk! Her name's Calael (which is the name I give to all of my characters in videogames :3) And I was quite pleased that her random look came out so cute!! I heard that it changes depending on the questions they ask you?
I can say that after playing the game for... 4 hours, that I can safely say that I've experienced Animal Crossing lol... it's kinda therapeutic and a nice switch from Dark Souls.

I tried playing Dark Souls, but I stink... it's too hard. Gage told me a cheat where you can use the dragon head to multiply your souls... but I still died a lot. (It wasn't as scary though because I felt overleveled lol) So I mostly played League of Legends and Animal Crossing haha!

I actually managed to collect some cool things.. and I claim myself to be the fishing MASTER.

I actually managed to make my house bigger and find other things too.... but I forgot to take a picture!!

I hope I can get a new laptop soon though, because it's been on the fritz lately.. it won't turn on sometimes and crashes often ;A; and next month I have a BUNCH of essays due and tests... so I need my laptop...!

I had a lot of fun...! It's nice to spend so much time with someone who loves you.

Until next time!