Beauty Product Review : Fresh Lotus Eye Gel

Fresh : Lotus Eye Gel [15 ml/0.5 fl oz]
Beauty Stars : 4.1

Review : The Fresh Lotus Eye Gel is deemed to reduce puffiness, dark circles and signs of fatigue, while firming the delicate skin around the eyes.  The formula blends toning lotus flower, stimulating green coffee extract and calming cucumber.

So I heard a story from a colleague about not applying eye cream or gel too close to the eyelid.  Apparently it can absorb into your tear duct and accumulate product overtime, causing MORE puffiness than normal.  She said a plastic surgeon told her that when he does eyelid surgery, he sometimes actually removes “product” from that area. EW!!!  So remember when applying any eye product, to use very little and to only apply around the orbital bone area, not too close to the eyelids. Even though you’re not applying the product close to the eyelid, it somehow makes its way there and will moisturize that entire area. The skin is very thin around the eyes, so not a lot of product is needed.

So back to Fresh, I chose this eye formula because of its gel-base. I once heard that you could develop small white bumps on the skin near your eyes if you use eye cream, but gel was ok.  The person who helped me though said it’s fine to use cream but just use very little and it should avoid that problem. I also chose this because it addresses both puffiness and darkness, whereas some eye gels/creams concentrate on one or the other.

I think due to my background in design, I’m always looking at package design – ease of use, minimalism, etc.  The Lotus Eye Gel definitely gets full points in this category.  It’s simple, it’s see-through so you know how much is left before you have to buy another one. And the pump lifts from the bottom with each pump, so that no product is wasted.  It never clogged and the plastic material they use is extremely lightweight and easy to carry in your purse. And each squirt is very precise, so you never pump out a ton a product by accident.

Overall, I didn’t find a huge difference, but it’s always good to use eye gels for preventative reasons.  I’m pretty sure whatever under eye concerns I currently have are mostly genetics, although super early morning bridal makeup gigs aren’t helping my situation.  The eye gel is definitely refreshing and if you leave it in the fridge, the cool temperature of the product will help wake you up! It absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave any residue on your skin.  The scent is ok, I think it smells like lotus flower (even though I’m not sure what lotus flower smells like) but if it had a smell, my guess is the eye gel is it. A bit pricey, $48 CAD, but a little each day goes a long way.

Beauty Review : Maggie Ng
Note : For any beauty questions or product submissions, please email : maggie@maggieng.com

Beauty Product Review : Ole Henriksen African Red Tea Foaming Cleanser

Ole Henriksen : African Red Tea Foaming Cleanser [207 ml/7 fl oz]
Beauty Stars : 3.8

Review : The Ole Henriksen African Red Tea Foaming Cleanser is a natural, rich, creamy anti-oxidant facial cleanser. Some key ingredients are: African red tea, pumpkin extract and black current seed oil.  I love that fact it has no parabens and is sulfate-free, as I try to use products that are natural as possible.  The time I used this product was during the winter months, so my face seemed to get really dry and tight after using this cleanser.  It says it’s for all skin types/anti-aging, but I think if I had used this during the summer, it would’ve been fine.  It cleanses really well.  It only requires 1-2 pumps and does the job.  My favourite part of the product is I LOVE the scent!

In terms of packaging, it’s great that the bottle is see-through, therefore you know when you’re almost out.  It has a foaming pump, so somehow it turns the liquid product into foam as it is being dispensed.  It is similar to those foaming handwashes available at Bath & Body Works, so someone ended up using my expensive face cleanser as handwash! Ack!  I had a few issues with the dispenser, which would get clogged every now and then. So I used a Q-Tip to clean it out.  And when the level of product gets to about 1/3rd left, it’s hard to get the product out unless you keep the container upright.

Overall I did really like this product.  My skin stayed relatively clear and had no reactions. The only thing was the dryness I experienced for my skin, but I honestly think it was due to the dry winter months.  It’s a tad on the expensive side but I would most likely buy it again.

Beauty Review : Maggie Ng
Note : For any beauty questions or product submissions, please email : maggie@maggieng.com

Product Feature : Nibot Design

Minimalism For Big City Living

 

Carry Your Essentials In Style With The Modern Clutch For Chic Women

 

Nibot has re-designed the clutch by infusing stainless as material into the purse apparel industry. Its sheen look changes tone with the surrounding ambience, reflecting the color of a dress, the flame of candlelight, or the brush strokes in a gallery. It is a chameleon, looks great no matter what the event. The simple lines are suitable for all occasions, providing a clean and elegant look.

Nibot Design - Akane Clutch Purse

Nibot is the result of years spent doing endless technical CAD drawings, until the point where creativity had no choice but to explode. With all things bound to a third decimal place accuracy, one wonders after years, what would happen if a drawing were simply sketched. Forget dimensions and all this nonsense about tolerance and lets draw foremost for design.

Nibot Design - Kazumi Clutch Purse

The clutch purses are Nibot’s first exciting product launch. The idea is to have a contemporary piece, yet maintain simplicity. The goal is to give a “look” the nudge of attitude that every style needs. There are currently 5 pieces in the collection, with further creativity already underway.

For more information : http://www.nibotdesign.com

To purchase online : http://www.etsy.com/shop/Nibotdesign?ref=pr_shop

Available at : 

Trap Door Boutique

2993 Dundas Street West, Toronto

www.shoptrapdoor.com

Short Story : In One Moment [Page 5]

IN ONE MOMENT [Page 5] by Tobin Cheung

Coming towards me is a young college girl dressed as if she were going to the theater. I give her a second look before coming to a conclusion. She is on the prowl, not for a man but for sophisticated company. She wants to mingle with the pretentious and the artsy, but her knowledge of jazz is only enough to trigger a conversation without sounding unintelligible. Her jazz repertoire consists mainly of staple songs, while the majority of her music collection is of House, R&B and Trance. She frequents the club district, having spent hours in front of a mirror learning the steps to most effectively shake her ass.

Meanwhile, her boyfriend, cat walking a blue blazer and designer rip jeans, is half a step behind her and clutching her arm. Damn well better be with a pretty, petite, prey prime for the picking, he needs to hang on tight. She could go on breaking hearts for another ten years without worry; men will still be standing in line to take a number. Unfortunately, her boyfriend doesn’t see what I see. He strides along side her, erect and proud. I give his preppy outfit a once over. It turns out that my scrutiny was enough to injure his ego because when he walks past, he checks my shoulder. I don’t bother to look back.

Instead, I am drawn to a pizza stand, more precisely, a pair of legs covered in silk black stockings. They belong to a late 30s professional. She has on a black pleated skirt, an off-white blouse and height regulated heels suggesting that she has come directly from her workplace. Dedicated to her career, yet able to reserve energy to enjoy the pleasures of life, this woman has achieved a delicate balance not easily attainable.

She has sex appeal. The idea of a sophisticated woman in my arms is curiously tempting. She was a woman of real size, aptly curved, trim and tall. Most of the girls today are scrawny and disproportioned. Their tiny waistline make their ass look like bubble butts while their tits get pushed, squished and padded. Bras are a funny thing; you never really know what’s under the packaging until they are removed.

I find myself staring at her even more intently as I make my way into the line. A feud between two siblings has captured everyone in queue except me. I cannot, for unknown reasons, keep my eyes off this woman. She does not resemble anyone famous. However, her features were famous. The little nose, the full lips, high cheek bones and the deep eyes are characteristics of true beauty. Unlike glamour, it does not fade with time. I trace the silhouette of her curves with my gaze while my thoughts quickly become R-rated. I fear I will fall into the latest Hollywood trend, where a younger man is in the arms of an older woman. Don’t misunderstand, if given the chance, I will leap against all better judgment. She will either regret the invitation or enjoy the unrelenting attention.

I wonder what type of man has such a woman in his arms at night. Who you would stereotypically expect them to be with is generally not the correct assumption. I mean, by looking at this woman, I would reckon a tall, well-dressed, successful Eastern European entrepreneur to be her companion. Yet, some neurotic, penniless, needy, self-proclaimed artist has probably won her heart.

I hold my place with only a foot, trying to respect the imaginary boundaries of a line, all the while gawking at her as if she’s prey. You know when you are officially spying when you find yourself peering through the gaps of people’s shoulders and cursing at stray hair blocking your view. A pretty girl distracts a man for the time it takes for her to pass by. A sinful girl will cause a man to twist his neck until she’s out of sight. A girl who makes all other worldly attractions disappear is a possible soul mate. 

[To be continued...]

Beauty Product Review : MAC "Fix+"

MAC : Fix+ [100ml/3.4 fl oz]
Beauty Stars : 4.5

Review : The MAC Fix+ is an aqua-spritz of vitamin and minerals, infused with a blend of green tea, chamomile, cucumber, topped off with the fresh, natural, energizing scent of Sugi. It's a must-have in my makeup kit. I typically use it like a spray-on toner/refresher before I begin any makeup applications as a form of prep. It hydrates and has a calming effect on the skin. You can use it throughout the day without makeup or on top of your makeup if you feel your face is getting dry and needs a bit of radiance without disturbing the makeup job you originally did.

I have a cake liner that needs water for activation, but sometimes I'll use the Fix+ instead and it works great.  I don't really use it at the end to set makeup (as the name of the product suggests), since I don't think it works well that way. However some people have said it does work for them as a makeup sealer, so it can be trial and error depending how each person's skin works with the product.

Some other options you can also use Fix+ for: you can mix it with a loose mineral powder to create a sort of paste-like texture, use the MAC 130 Duo Fibre Brush to apply as a foundation on the skin for a light, almost airbrushed finish.  You can use the Fix+ with MAC Pigments or any form of loose eyeshadow for a very vivid finish.

Beauty Review : Maggie Ng
Note : For any beauty questions or product submissions, please email : maggie@maggieng.com

Travels : Mykonos, Greece

TRAVELS : MYKONOS, GREECE

Are you looking for a picturesque vacation spot to relax and watch time slow and want something other than a resort? Then try the Greek Island of Mykonos. Stay at the (4 Star) Pelican Bay Art Hotel, where the décor is luxurious and the architecture is like a quaint boutique with wood beam ceilings and stone walls. The attention to detail is incredible, every fixture, every piece of furniture appears handpicked, even down to the classic elevator buttons. Take some time to look at the sculptures and paintings throughout the hotel. During the day you can lounge by the pool and in the evenings sit in your own private balcony.

The Pelican Bay is a five minute walk from a beautiful beach where the water is clear and the boardwalk is lined with restaurants. One for every day of the week. An entree to try is the lamb. It is not only tasty but a bargain, about half the price one would pay in Toronto.

There are many beaches to visit when in Mykonos. One of the more popular spots is Super Paradise Beach. However, if you are after something more  secluded, there are beaches all over the island. Stop off at Ano Mera, a small town for lunch, before heading for the beach in Fokos. A great thing to do is rent a car or a four wheeler and explore. The light house has a spectacular view and the windy roads are fun to whiz around on.

If you are looking for a bit of nightlife or shopping, head into the Town of Hora and get lost in the maze of narrow streets. There are boutique shops, name brand stores, art galleries and endless restaurants, from 2.50 Euro gyros to fine dining. Keep an eye out for the town’s two mascots, a pair of Pelican birds.

Bring a camera, because the cluster of white houses, stone streets and waterfront view is perfect for artistic interpretation. It’s all about taking it easy, having a drink because the view is awesome, taking a few pictures or setting up for that "postcard" shot, doing a little shopping, trying on some clothes, stopping and having some sweets to catch another view, spending some time people-watching and finally look for that special restaurant for dinner.

At some point, all this self-indulging lounging may get to you, in which case you can take a ferry boat to the archaeological Island of Delos. Visit the museum and spend the day hiking through the ruins. Climb atop the mountain for a spectacular view before heading back to the comfort of your hotel and private pool.

All in all, slow down and take in all that is around.

Words + Photos : Tobin Cheung

Beauty Product Review : Finipil Lait 50

Finipil : Lait 50 [31 ml]
Beauty Stars : 4.5

Review : This is definitely an amazing product with a long list of uses.  It was mainly developed to be used in conjunction with Nufree Soy-Based Hair Removal.  When used after Nufree treatments, it’s supposed to slow down the hair regrowth process.  I’ve done the Nufree treatment a few times and did notice a reduction in the amount of hair in the areas treated.  The hairs that are growing back are definitely growing back a lot slower.  I’ve been told with regular treatments ie. 20-30 treatments once a month, is equivalent to laser hair removal. But I’ve been really busy to keep up regular treatments, but so far I have seen results with the few times I’ve gotten Nufree done and have used the Finipil afterwards.

Finipil is an anti-bacterial lotion. So I’ve used it as a great non-greasy/non-drying hand sanitizer/moisturizer. Much better than using the alcohol-based hand sanitizers.

Other uses I haven’t explored but has known to work: great for rashes/scrapes/cuts if you don’t have Polysporin. When applied, it has a very cooling sensation, so it’s great for traveling ie. cools swelling feet or you can apply all over if there’s no AC!  It also prevents ingrown hairs if you don’t have time to exfoliate daily. Great as a makeup primer/base.  Great for pore tightening and disinfecting in the hot heat to prevent breakouts.  Great as a deordorant with cooling effects.  Some have used this product for Athlete’s Foot, chapped lips and cold sores.

It’s worth giving a try, but unfortunately it’s not sold in regular stores.  If you’re interested in purchasing one, please contact me directly : maggie@maggieng.com

Beauty Review : Maggie Ng

Note : For any beauty questions or product submissions, please email : maggie@maggieng.com

Short Story : In One Moment [Page 4]

IN ONE MOMENT by Tobin Cheung [Page 4]

I’ve tried putting my arms around her, but she claims it hurts her back. Once I opted for touching feet, to have some human contact, yet somehow that too hurt her back.

With my arm stretched out towards hers, I take hold of her hand. She stops and complains that my palm is all sweaty. 

“I’m actually kind of tired, Lizzy. We’ve been here most of the day. What do you say to a quiet evening at my place instead? We could order in, rent a movie and get out of this heat. I could use a shower.”

“What do you mean, you want to go? It’s Saturday night!?! People are just arriving.”

What she considers as 'people' are the young fashionable type, hip on all the latest trends, coming out only once the sun has set. “If you’re tired, why don’t you rest somewhere and I’ll come and get you later, in an hour or so.”

We’ve been here all afternoon at the jazz festival and I’ve hardly had a chance to watch a band play. All we’ve been doing is wandering around, people watching, lounging in café’s and outdoor patios.

“Yeah, ok.” I agree. “I’ll go see a band. I’ll hang out over at the main stage.”

“Where’s the main stage?”

“Right there,” I say pointing to the crew of people doing the sound check. “I’ll sit near that hotdog stand, to the right of the stage.”

Most of the seats were still empty. The band is not scheduled to play for another fifteen minutes.

“I can’t find you in there.”

“Just come by the hot dog stand when you’re done and I’ll keep an eye out for you. I’ll save you a seat.”

She gives me this dumb puzzled look.

“Yeah, whatever.”

I watch her turn her back and walk out towards the vendors. Her blonde and pink pigtails whip around and land just to the right and left of the butterfly she has tattooed at the base of her neck. It’s small, hardly noticeable and a cliché, but I told her that it was cute.

For the first time, I listened to the clicking of her heels. The tempo is that of a prance-like strut that could not be more fitting with her attire. She is sporting a pair of white cotton pants, so gripping that it appears to be sprayed on. Needless to say, they leave nothing to the imagination. She is one of those girls who wear a thong on a regular basis, regardless of her mood. It doesn’t mean she’s feeling sexy. It doesn’t mean she’s horny and it’s definitely not an invitation for me to approach with desires. She can be rather cold. I sometimes believe she knows exactly what she is doing and plays me like a puppet, all her actions premeditated and calculated. Other times, I accept her lack of sensitivity as unintentional and believe that I could be misunderstanding her entirely. Perhaps, I’m simply expecting too much.

“It’s a little too dry. Can we have the guitar strum a few more bars?”

The sun is setting and a cool breeze is blowing in off the lake. I am thirsty and badly in need of a sugar high that only a cola could fix. What can I say, I crave the fizzy sweet nectar and the boost of energy associated with a near fatal dose of caffeine. The closest food concession is jammed with people searching their pockets for bills, not coins, expecting to pay triple the fair rate. I shuffle through the crowd hoping to find a not so popular cotton candy or pretzel stand.

[To be continued...]

Contest : Lise Watier PROM'Tourage

Who is in your PROM’tourage? 

The beloved Lise Watier DUO Shadow & Glitter now comes in two new shades (Pink Strass and Precious Gold), right in time for prom and will be a part of the prom package that two lucky winners will receive along with a few other glitter goodies. In addition, the two winners will be able to give $10 e-Boutique gift cards to 5 of their closest friends! All they have to do is send LW a picture of them and their entourage on Facebook (Girls only!) and let us know their best high school memory! The Lise Watier team will then decide in 4 weeks time who the winners are! 

To send Lise Watier your photos, please join the LW Facebook page :
http://www.facebook.com/LiseWatier

Luv Your Beauty Expert,

Maggie Ng