Wicked Wednesday: So is This Goodbye?

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Maybe it's time to admit that I can't keep a blog. A proper one anyway. I may not be juggling as many things as others do but I am not as diligent as some are. I'd rather read a novel or watch an episode of Gossip Girl than blog. Now that I am out of creative juice, it has become a chore, instead of a joy, having to churn out two posts a week. Yes, I did sign myself up for it. Now, I am considering pulling out.

I can't complain though. It has been a really good run. I've dipped my toe into the pool of beauty blogging and found it quite a delight. I wish I can confidently say that I will continue with this side career of mine for the next few years. Unfortunately, with the kind of commitments I am expected to make next year (mentally, physically and emotionally), I don't think I can carry on with this beloved blog.

I'd like to think that I've improved when it comes to my blogging skills. I'd like to think that hundreds have enjoyed reading my posts. But one thing is for sure, I've received a lot of support and kindness from you, my readers. Thank you for all the wonderful comments you have left me. Thank you for all the helpful feedback you have give me. And most importantly, thank you for reading and following my blog.

When the time comes for me to shut this blog down permanently, I will let you know. For now, my posts will become more scarce as I work things out, both in my head and in my heart. Hope you've had a lovely Christmas and I wish you a very Happy New Year.

What do you think? Should I keep this blog or chuck it?

So Obessessed!

I've been obssessed with balayages for a very long time now. Yes, I know. The trend is kinda old but apparently it is still chic to have one. Why didn't I just go and get it done? Well, I'm just afraid it will look terrible on me, especially because I'm Asian. Here are photos of some that I like.

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What do you guys think? Should I get it done? Or is this hairstyle over rated?

P.S. Sorry this is a really short post. I have been really busy at work 'cause we're short-staffed at the moment. I promise that the next post will be a good one!

P.P.S. Have a Merry Christmas!!

Wicked Wednesday: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Review

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Acne Treatment  
Claims: Clinically proven to reduce acne. Reduces the number and severity of breakouts with minimal irritation. Non-drying. Dermatologist tested on sensitive skin. Fragrance-free. Oil-free. Paraben-free. Non-comedogenic.
RRP: USD$36.95 + tax

Packaging: 5 out of 5

Review: As I mentioned in my previous post, I picked up this product while I was in the USA. It was thanks to Ruth Crilly from amodelrecommends that this product came to my attention. I have been loving it ever since I started using it. This is by far the best acne treatment I have tried. All I need to squeeze is a tiny little pearl of product for every pimple. It clears my pimples quickly without damaging my skin. It contains benzoyl peroxide. So if I apply too much, it does dry up the area a bit. To counter that, I simply apply moisturiser after using this product. I have been applying this to my nose as well and I find that my blackheads have disappeared! I am truly impressed with this product. Since I use only a tiny amount each time, I believe this product will last me a very long time. The packaging is brilliant. The squeezable tube feels of good quality. The cap is a screw-on type and the product is dispensed through a pointed tip (so that you don't end up squeezing out too much). 

You can buy this product from a UK website. I don't believe Australia has stocked this product yet. If you're visiting the USA, I suggest you purchase one. 

Have you tried this product before? What product do you use for acne?

Triple S: USA Beauty Haul

You may have noticed that I have not been replying to comments for the past three weeks. That's because I've been away on a big holiday. Where did I go? USA! And of course, for every beauty blogger, it's a standard procedure to follow up with a Haul post. 

Sadly, I did not purchase as many beauty items as I had hoped/expected but I'm sure you're still keen to see what handful of products did I manage to grab.

In terms of makeup, this is what I bought: Duo eyelash adhesive, Stila Convertible in Lilium, UD eyeshadow in Bordello, UD Eyeshadow Primer Potion, MAC eyeshadow palette that I built myself (Brown Down, Naked Lunch, Sable and Satin Taupe) and a MAC 219 brush (it's brown at the tip because I've already started using it). I am in love with my Stila Convertible. I will be doing a swatch and review soon so keep an eye out!

As for skincare, I only got myself one product: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo. I can tell you now that this is the best acne treatment I have tried so far. Review to come! I was going to buy myself a La Mer Moisturising Cream while I was there. Then, my mum revealed that she has an unopened jar that I can have so I didn't.

As for nail polish, I had initially intended to buy quite a lot of OPI from the US. However, we never managed to find a store that stocked a big selection. I know Sephora has their own version/collection of OPI but I wanted the originals. No big loss because I already have 20 over nail polishes that I hardly use. So all I got were these two: Essie Good As Gold and Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat in 09 Wave Break.

Lastly, I also picked up a copy of Allure Magazine. It was for only $4! I couldn't resist. Plus, Keira Knightley looks smoking hot in this issue. 

Before I finish up this post, here are some of my favourite photos from the trip.

New York

San Francisco

Los Angeles

Have you been to USA before? Which city is your favourite? I can't decide between New York and San Francisco.

Wicked Wednesday: Winner of My Birthday Giveaway

Hey ladies, sorry this announcement is late! I just came back from a huge holiday and I've been working the past two days. But here it is!

First, I want to thank everyone for reading my blog and for entering this giveaway. If you don't win this time round, please don't fret. I will be throwing more giveaways in the future.

I've made the mistake of closing the tab to the random.org website before print screening the name of the winner. So please forgive me but you'll just have to trust me when I say that the winner is Shaimaa.

Congratulations, Shaimaa! You will receive an email from me soon and you must reply within 48 hours to claim your prize otherwise a new winner will be selected.

I hope everyone has a lovely week. Keep an eye out for my next post if you love hauls!

Triple S: Style Files #2

It's been a while since I've done a Style Files post. Here are some outfits that have been insipiring me for this very hot summer:

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1. Must be her blue nails and shoes. Or maybe it's the floral dress and the flower in her hair. But I must say that I love her creativity in photography!

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2. Who doesn't love a good maxi dress and a pair of aviators for summer? Oh, and let's not forget the cute and casual side braid.

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3. I have only three words for this outfit: casual but chic.

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4. I know that balayage was all the rage last season but I firmly believe that it has carried on over to this season as well. Love her off-one-shoulder chiffon dress and sandals!

Out of the four outfits, which is your favourite?

Wicked Wednesday: How to Make Your Eyes Look Bigger Tutorial

I know my tutorials usually have lots of step-by-step photos. Today, I've decided to try something different. Something simpler. Do let me know what you think.

1. Apply Virgin (from the Naked Palette) all over your eyelids, particularly on your inner corners and your mobile lid.

2. Mix Naked and Buck (from the Naked Palette) and sweep them into your crease.

3. Line your upper lash line thickly with black eyeliner.

4. Line your upper water line with black eyeliner. This is to give the illusion of very full and thick lashes.

5. Line your lower lash line (thinly) with black eyeliner. This is to give the illusion that you have a thick lower lashes.

6. Line your lower water line with a nude/white eyeliner.

7. Apply false eyelashes if you wish. The one I used is from Eylure (pictured below).

Can you see a difference between the right and left eye?

So, ladies, what's the verdict. Should I stick with this style of tutorial or go back to ones like these?

Please note this is NOT a sponsored post; in case anyone got the wrong impression.

Triple S: Alpha-H Liquid Gold Smoothing and Perfecting Mask Review

I'm a fan of Alpha-H products (recall from this review of 3 of their products). Their Liquid Gold Smoothing and Perfecting Mask is no exception. Here are my thoughts on this product after having tried it for a few months now.

 Alpha-H Liquid Gold Smoothing and Perfecting Mask
Claims: Eliminates dryness while absorbing excess oil. Designed to visibly improve all skin conditions such as fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, sun-damage, clogged pores, blemishes, acne and acne scarring, dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis.
RRP: AUD63 for 100g 

Packaging: 5 out of 5

Review: Many praises have been sung for this mask. I had high expectations when I received this products. I desperately wanted it to be the magic bullet for flawless glowing skin. But let's be realistic. No such product exists; and even if it does, it comes in something called Photoshop. However, I am happy to report that this skincare product is worth having in your arsenal. This mask leaves my skin feeling softer and more supple. It helps to dry up any pimples/acne that I have. The glycolic acid takes off all of my dead skin cells, giving me a slightly brighter complexion. My skin also feels fresher and more awake after washing the mask away.

 This product has a very soft and slightly creamy texture. It glides on the skin very easily. However, if you want to skimp like me; use very little product to cover your entire face, you will have to "work the product" until you get an even spread all over. Really, you don't need a lot. And if you get the mask in full size, it will last you a very long time. In the photo below, I have the mask on. It becomes transparent a minute within application. That's why you can't really see the mask on my face. So I guess if you unexpectedly need to answer the door, no one will be able to tell you have product all over your mug!

The first time I apply this mask it stung. It's because of the glycolic acid. But the stinging sensation disappeared after a minute. The "stinging time" lessened as I used this mask more. Now it only stings the tinest bit upon application and is gone within a second or two. This product comes in a convenient squeezable tube and I cannot find any fault with the packaging. Hence the 5 out of 5. So, this mask does not make my skin flawless (no product can instantly remove pimples/scars) but it does make my skin glow. And that's more than good enough for me! 

Have you tried this mask before? What's your go-to product for glowing skin?