About Me
- Frances
- California, United States
- Hi! Thanks for visiting ^_^ My social media platforms: Instagram: meowmier Youtube: http://goo.gl/U5SnNM (formerly under the username francesvlogs but I don't have access to that anymore). I don't really do videos anymore simply because I think blog posts are more informative. Hope you enjoyed your time here! :)
Showing posts with label Clinique. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Clinique. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 11, 2018
Black Friday 2018 Beauty Haul!
I no buy when there's no discount... anyone else? XD
Hope you enjoyed these long chatty hauls....?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?
Time for me to disappear again... LOL.
Have a great day guys :)
Products mentioned:
1. Rael pantiliners/pads/tampons/period pants
2. Aveda Mineral Loose Powder
3. Aveda Rosemary Mint shampoo
4. Aveda Pure Abundance shampoo
5. SK-II Facial Treatment Mask
6. SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
7. Clinique Repairwear Anti Gravity eyecream
8. Neogen Sunscreen
9. Huda Beauty demi-matte cream lipstick in Shero
10. NARS Audacious lipstick in Jane
11. T3 Featherweight Compact folding hair dryer
12. Jo Malone Dark Amber & Ginger Lily perfume
13. Bobbi Brown Luxe Liquid lipstick in Italian Rose, Strike a Rose, Your Majesty
14. Clinique Smart Treatment Oil
15. Clinique Smart Custom Repair Serum
16. Sand & Sky Porefining Face Mask
17. MAC Matte Lipstick in Taupe
18. MAC Liquidlast liner in Cocoa Bar
19. Pony Effect MEMEBOX Coverstay Cushion Foundation in Nude Beige
20. MEMEBOX PONY Easy Painting Brush Liner in 02. Natural Brown
21. MEMEBOX - PONY Blossom Velvet Lip Tint #04 Petite Bouquet
22. MEMEBOX - PONY EFFECT Prime Protect Sun Base
23. MEMEBOX - PONY EFFECT Smooth Dough Puff
24. COSRX - Acne Pimple Master Patch
25. Etude House - Lash Perm Curl Fix Mascara
26. COSRX - AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
27. Pyunkang Yul Balancing Gel, Moisture Serum, Moisture Ampoule, Moisture Cream, Essence Toner, Oil
<3 Frances
Sunday, January 10, 2016
Best of 2015 & Resolutions
Hi guys!!
Running short on time here, so let's just cut to the chase LOL.
Happy New Year!!
Last year I ranked my yearly favorites... this year... in no particular order. Let's start with skincare :)
1. Albion Skin Conditioner
Really the most conditioning toner I've ever used. My skin feels so calm and comfortable every single time after I use it. Stopped using it for a while cuz I got distracted by the SK-II Clear Lotion, but when I went back to it again, I was like OMG I FORGOT HOW GOOD IT WAS!!!! It's very expensive but I definitely recommend :) By the way it's just a very conditioning/comfortable feeling... if you're looking for something more it might not be for you.
A shout-out to the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion. Unfortunately this did NOT make it to my Best of 2015 list. I was OBSESSED with it for months, but after a while I feel like I stopped feeling/seeing effects from it. You can read about my initial thoughts about it here. I ran out of it but still have a second bottle. Maybe after this little break I will be able to see if it makes any difference again?
2. Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil
Last year I raved about the Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask. This year it was replaced by this XD Now I just use this whenever I cleared out my blackheads. Not only it keeps the pores tight, it also nourishes and reduces the peeling process to a minimum. I mean the Mask is still great... it works through a different mechanism (ie, drawing things out) so it depends on what you're looking for. Personally, the oil > mask because the mask is such a hassle to wash off. Before I was willing to put up with it just because the results were phenomenal, but after discovering this oil does the same... I haven't touched the mask at all lol. Prob will save the mask for the summer. I also use it all over my face once in a while. Personally can't use it every day-- too much exfoliating/breaks me out.
Here are my most used skincare from 2015
Cetaphil is awesome.
Still loving the Clinique Smart Custom Repair Serum.
First Aid Ultra Repair Cream is awesome.
When I had that peeling problem around my mouth, Luca's Paw Paw Ointment helped with the healing process a lot (that and it's a great lip balm in general). Not as much as Carmex though :) Seriously, Carmex is the cure/godsend for any lip problem O_O
Want to give a shout out to the Origins GinZing eye cream. Used to think it was just okay but not only it's great for dark circles, it's also awesome for reducing puffiness.
And of course, the Diorsnow UV Shield is still the most amazing base makeup I've ever used =)
3. Innisfree Smart Foundation Super Moisture
Best liquid foundation award of course goes to this! Although.... it might be discontinued already O_O I have no idea. You can read my review here.
Want to give a little shout out to the Too Faced Born This Way foundation. Although I only tested out that foundation briefly... still thinking about it lol. Review here. Although I heard they expanded the color range... I might be able to find a better match?
Most used base makeup...
Clinique Air Brush Concealer-- Don't use it as a concealer cuz I just can't place anything underneath my eyes =_= so was just trying to use it up by using it to highlight my forehead, between my brows, my nose bridge, around my mouth, and under my chin. It's grown on me =D
Too Faced Chocolate Powder Foundation. Review here. Now I actually really like it since moving to Cali.
Lancome Teint Miracle Powder Foundation (Asia edition). Talked about it LONG LONG time ago here.
SK-II Auractivator CC Cream. Reviewed here. It was only most-used because it's sheer coverage + sunscreen in one... I used it a lot when I was lazy. But it's not something I would repurchase... I'm kind of over the super glowy look and plus it doesn't last on combination skin.
4. 廣源良菜瓜水 Luffa Water Facial Mist
Favorite mist of the year LOL. So cheap, yet the spritz bottle is so nice! Super portable and light. Also the mist it gives out is pretty fine. Pretty damn impressed. Did I mention it's so cheap??? LOL. Been enjoying my Jurlique Rose Water Mist but this is something I definitely will go back to. Thumbs up! Hmm... not sure where you can get it, bought it when I was in Taiwan. If anyone is interested let me know I'll look into it.
5. Lunasol Beige Beige eye shadow quad
Favorite eye shadows award no doubt goes to this quad =D
Really, can't find fault with any of the colors. Still obsessed with the glitter shadow, and the brown shadow. Really want to try out more Lunasol eye shadows. Pretty sure if I ever run out of this palette I would repurchase (or at least I would buy another quad from Lunasol). See here for details/swatches.
Of course... you guys know it by heart now, the only eyeliner I use is by Milani Infinite eyeliner in 06 unlimited.
My best advise for long-lasting eyeliner is...
1. Avoid liquid foundation over the eye area. Or if you must, at least set it with powder. Just use a powder foundation
2. Do your eyeliner first with an eye shadow. My favorites are the brown one from Lunasol Beige Beige and L'oreal Infallible eye shadow in Bronzed Taupe. Those two seriously make EXCELLENT eyeliner base. Helps my eyeliner stay on super long... and gives my eyeliner and much more softer and blended look.
3. Then layer this eyeliner over the eye shadow
Years and years of wearing makeup and these are my best tricks to long-lasting eyeliner =D Seriously, give this a try. Don't do liquid eyeliner first then layer with eye shadow, that doesn't do anything. Do eye shadow as eyeliner first THEN the liquid/gel eyeliner.
Trusty and beloved Shiseido eye lash curler, and Majolica Majorca mascara and mascara primer.
6. Neuve eye brow pencil
Faaaavorite eye brow product this year!!! the Maybelline one and everything else fell out of my favor. And this is so freaking cheap too.
Favorite blushes
If I have to pick a favorite one, it will have to be the THREE blushes. However, I feel like these all got equal amounts of love from me... the formulation for all three brands are amazing. Check them out!
THREE- Sweet Thing-- LOVE THIS for spring/summer.
THREE- Into the Aether-- OBSESSED for colder months. Currently reaching for only this LOL.
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blushes-- Mood Exposure and Luminous Flush are my favs. Mood Exposure is just an amazing all-year-round color.
For these blushes you can see my swatches here.
Discovered the Bobbi Brown blushes like in mid-year and they have amazing formulation. I love both colors that I got-- Coral Sugar and Peony, but I prefer Coral Sugar :)
I actually made a little dent!!!!!! I've never made a dent in a blush before!!! *Le PROUD*
Favorite lip products
3CE lip laquer in Dahlia. Formula is VERY drying, me no like. But I love the color and the matte finish so I'll deal with it LMAO
YSL volupte shine in corail intuitive. It's a nude pink... I seldom use it on its own, but it's the PERFECT nude pink to layer over :))) One of my fav combos is to layer the Clio Lipnicure in Revenge Pink over it to create the gradient lip.
YSL glossy stain in #29... an all-around favorite now lol don't think I can live without it. It just goes with EVERYTHING.
Favorite lip tint/stain award goes to the VDL Triple Shot Tint Bar. It's not gimmick at all lol. Cannot say enough good things about it. Staining is decent, but the formula is impeccable-- super moisturizing!! I would really really love love LOVE to collect all of the colors... but... calm your panties now Frances =_=
Shout outs to Rouge Dior Nude in 169 Greige. No idea if it's still being sold, but at one point was obsessed with wearing nude lips hahaha.
Aritaum Honey Melting Tint deserves a shout out too... great great formula. Would've made it to the best if I have different shades I guess? For some reason even though these two are super cute shades... I don't always feel it.
Fav brushes awards go to...
SUQQU cheek brush. Yes. It's love! Awesome for small face girls lol. And I mean it's pretty multi-functional too... for powder, highlight... etc :)
And a surprising favorite... SUQQU eyeliner D brush. Funny thing is I kind of hated this brush for a while LOL cuz it felt so scratchy. Was about to give up on it. Took me 3 months to break it in I'm not even exaggerating =_= not sure if the turning point was when I decided to clean it with my cleansing oil?? Maybe that helped. And yes, I prefer this over eyeliner C now, simply because I like a softer look.
Of course... additional shout-outs.
Well actually the Bubbi multi-function brush isn't a shout-out, it's an all-time favorite. Why is it discontinued??? I don't get it. SO GREAT for traveling, and honestly sometimes I just use it even when I'm not traveling cuz it's so great. So soft and applies powder SO WELL and so portable. Love love love.
SUQQU Face Brush... okay I would NEVER travel with this thing. Too expensive and I'm too scared to lose it. It's a luxury brush and it's super soft... but it's not a must. Still, a pleasure to use so here it is lol!
Eyeliner C also deserves a shout-out. Good brush =)
Only one favorite hair product from this year (aside from my old standby-- Aveda shampoos). Bumble & bumble Surf Infusion hair spray. Already talked about it on Instagram so not gonna elaborate.
Favorite perfumes!
Jo Malone Nectarine & Blossom. Still going strong =P Might get a full size one... Although I want to buy the Blue Agava & Cacao next... hmmmmm....
Chloe... the perfume?? LOL too lazy to look up the name...
======================================================================
Beauty resolutions for 2016 =)
This might be shocking to all of you XD But I want to stop using liquid foundations. For good. I will continue using up what's already been open on hand (or I might not... still deciding), but I think I will get rid of the rest and just use powder from here on out.
The reason why I made that decision is that being a pharmacist (yayy I can say that now) you learned that your skin ABSORBS a lot of stuff. A lot of medications work by being absorbed from the skin into the blood stream (like gels, patches, etc). I don't want my body to absorb anything unnecessary. These days I sometimes only apply skincare at night... or I haven't been wearing my Dior sunscreen at all just because it's been very gloomy and I just got lazy with the sun protection. Interestingly my skin got better O_O so even skincare products are just full of chemicals. Feel like my skin does better without most of it. I mean of course I'll still continue to use them LOL. But just trying to keep them to a minimum and just back to the basics. I think even though the Dior sunscreen is great, but because it literally fills in all the pores, it adds burden to my skin without me even realizing it.
Second resolution... take off my lip products before I eat. Don't want to swallow all that shit LOL. I still forget a lot of times. Working on it!!
Third... keep gyming/be physically active
Fourth... eat only till when I'm full. My new thing is to eat whatever I want and whenever I want (preferably only when I'm hungry or really really craving for something... or just if it feels really good/fits the mood :D) but to never be too full. NEVER stuff myself!! lol. Been doing really well on this. I no longer do cheat days... I feel like that kind of mentality actually made me have very unhealthy relationship with food. Cuz you're constantly restricting yourself and thinking about what you should reward yourself with at the end of the week you know? lol! I just want to eat and enjoy food and not think/obsess about it.
Fifth... cut down makeup expenses. Hahaha. Feel like such a hypocrite saying this cuz obviously I'm sharing things I like and therefore "promoting" stuff (in the sense I make my readers want to buy stuff XD) but I really just need to get away from YouTube and all that so I won't get "triggered". These days I mostly watch vlogs and just try to put my energy elsewhere. Time to move on to bigger and better things??? Can I save up for a house please??? LOL!!
Alrighty, if you've stuck around for this far, thank you =) thanks for reading my blog and just put up with my general ramblyness haha. Not sure where the direction of this blog's headed... I mean I love reviewing stuff... but since I want to actively distance myself from the makeup world so I won't get triggered to always wanting to buy/try new stuff... not sure what kind of content I will be able to bring you guys. Any thoughts?
Again... happy 2016 to you all! I'm really excited to see what 2016 has in store for me ^__^
Much much love,
<3 Frances
Running short on time here, so let's just cut to the chase LOL.
Happy New Year!!
Last year I ranked my yearly favorites... this year... in no particular order. Let's start with skincare :)
1. Albion Skin Conditioner
Really the most conditioning toner I've ever used. My skin feels so calm and comfortable every single time after I use it. Stopped using it for a while cuz I got distracted by the SK-II Clear Lotion, but when I went back to it again, I was like OMG I FORGOT HOW GOOD IT WAS!!!! It's very expensive but I definitely recommend :) By the way it's just a very conditioning/comfortable feeling... if you're looking for something more it might not be for you.
A shout-out to the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion. Unfortunately this did NOT make it to my Best of 2015 list. I was OBSESSED with it for months, but after a while I feel like I stopped feeling/seeing effects from it. You can read about my initial thoughts about it here. I ran out of it but still have a second bottle. Maybe after this little break I will be able to see if it makes any difference again?
2. Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil
Last year I raved about the Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask. This year it was replaced by this XD Now I just use this whenever I cleared out my blackheads. Not only it keeps the pores tight, it also nourishes and reduces the peeling process to a minimum. I mean the Mask is still great... it works through a different mechanism (ie, drawing things out) so it depends on what you're looking for. Personally, the oil > mask because the mask is such a hassle to wash off. Before I was willing to put up with it just because the results were phenomenal, but after discovering this oil does the same... I haven't touched the mask at all lol. Prob will save the mask for the summer. I also use it all over my face once in a while. Personally can't use it every day-- too much exfoliating/breaks me out.
Here are my most used skincare from 2015
Cetaphil is awesome.
Still loving the Clinique Smart Custom Repair Serum.
First Aid Ultra Repair Cream is awesome.
When I had that peeling problem around my mouth, Luca's Paw Paw Ointment helped with the healing process a lot (that and it's a great lip balm in general). Not as much as Carmex though :) Seriously, Carmex is the cure/godsend for any lip problem O_O
Want to give a shout out to the Origins GinZing eye cream. Used to think it was just okay but not only it's great for dark circles, it's also awesome for reducing puffiness.
And of course, the Diorsnow UV Shield is still the most amazing base makeup I've ever used =)
3. Innisfree Smart Foundation Super Moisture
Best liquid foundation award of course goes to this! Although.... it might be discontinued already O_O I have no idea. You can read my review here.
Want to give a little shout out to the Too Faced Born This Way foundation. Although I only tested out that foundation briefly... still thinking about it lol. Review here. Although I heard they expanded the color range... I might be able to find a better match?
Most used base makeup...
Clinique Air Brush Concealer-- Don't use it as a concealer cuz I just can't place anything underneath my eyes =_= so was just trying to use it up by using it to highlight my forehead, between my brows, my nose bridge, around my mouth, and under my chin. It's grown on me =D
Too Faced Chocolate Powder Foundation. Review here. Now I actually really like it since moving to Cali.
Lancome Teint Miracle Powder Foundation (Asia edition). Talked about it LONG LONG time ago here.
SK-II Auractivator CC Cream. Reviewed here. It was only most-used because it's sheer coverage + sunscreen in one... I used it a lot when I was lazy. But it's not something I would repurchase... I'm kind of over the super glowy look and plus it doesn't last on combination skin.
4. 廣源良菜瓜水 Luffa Water Facial Mist
Favorite mist of the year LOL. So cheap, yet the spritz bottle is so nice! Super portable and light. Also the mist it gives out is pretty fine. Pretty damn impressed. Did I mention it's so cheap??? LOL. Been enjoying my Jurlique Rose Water Mist but this is something I definitely will go back to. Thumbs up! Hmm... not sure where you can get it, bought it when I was in Taiwan. If anyone is interested let me know I'll look into it.
5. Lunasol Beige Beige eye shadow quad
Favorite eye shadows award no doubt goes to this quad =D
Really, can't find fault with any of the colors. Still obsessed with the glitter shadow, and the brown shadow. Really want to try out more Lunasol eye shadows. Pretty sure if I ever run out of this palette I would repurchase (or at least I would buy another quad from Lunasol). See here for details/swatches.
Of course... you guys know it by heart now, the only eyeliner I use is by Milani Infinite eyeliner in 06 unlimited.
My best advise for long-lasting eyeliner is...
1. Avoid liquid foundation over the eye area. Or if you must, at least set it with powder. Just use a powder foundation
2. Do your eyeliner first with an eye shadow. My favorites are the brown one from Lunasol Beige Beige and L'oreal Infallible eye shadow in Bronzed Taupe. Those two seriously make EXCELLENT eyeliner base. Helps my eyeliner stay on super long... and gives my eyeliner and much more softer and blended look.
3. Then layer this eyeliner over the eye shadow
Years and years of wearing makeup and these are my best tricks to long-lasting eyeliner =D Seriously, give this a try. Don't do liquid eyeliner first then layer with eye shadow, that doesn't do anything. Do eye shadow as eyeliner first THEN the liquid/gel eyeliner.
Trusty and beloved Shiseido eye lash curler, and Majolica Majorca mascara and mascara primer.
6. Neuve eye brow pencil
Faaaavorite eye brow product this year!!! the Maybelline one and everything else fell out of my favor. And this is so freaking cheap too.
Favorite blushes
If I have to pick a favorite one, it will have to be the THREE blushes. However, I feel like these all got equal amounts of love from me... the formulation for all three brands are amazing. Check them out!
THREE- Sweet Thing-- LOVE THIS for spring/summer.
THREE- Into the Aether-- OBSESSED for colder months. Currently reaching for only this LOL.
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blushes-- Mood Exposure and Luminous Flush are my favs. Mood Exposure is just an amazing all-year-round color.
For these blushes you can see my swatches here.
Discovered the Bobbi Brown blushes like in mid-year and they have amazing formulation. I love both colors that I got-- Coral Sugar and Peony, but I prefer Coral Sugar :)
I actually made a little dent!!!!!! I've never made a dent in a blush before!!! *Le PROUD*
Favorite lip products
3CE lip laquer in Dahlia. Formula is VERY drying, me no like. But I love the color and the matte finish so I'll deal with it LMAO
YSL volupte shine in corail intuitive. It's a nude pink... I seldom use it on its own, but it's the PERFECT nude pink to layer over :))) One of my fav combos is to layer the Clio Lipnicure in Revenge Pink over it to create the gradient lip.
YSL glossy stain in #29... an all-around favorite now lol don't think I can live without it. It just goes with EVERYTHING.
Favorite lip tint/stain award goes to the VDL Triple Shot Tint Bar. It's not gimmick at all lol. Cannot say enough good things about it. Staining is decent, but the formula is impeccable-- super moisturizing!! I would really really love love LOVE to collect all of the colors... but... calm your panties now Frances =_=
Shout outs to Rouge Dior Nude in 169 Greige. No idea if it's still being sold, but at one point was obsessed with wearing nude lips hahaha.
Aritaum Honey Melting Tint deserves a shout out too... great great formula. Would've made it to the best if I have different shades I guess? For some reason even though these two are super cute shades... I don't always feel it.
Fav brushes awards go to...
SUQQU cheek brush. Yes. It's love! Awesome for small face girls lol. And I mean it's pretty multi-functional too... for powder, highlight... etc :)
And a surprising favorite... SUQQU eyeliner D brush. Funny thing is I kind of hated this brush for a while LOL cuz it felt so scratchy. Was about to give up on it. Took me 3 months to break it in I'm not even exaggerating =_= not sure if the turning point was when I decided to clean it with my cleansing oil?? Maybe that helped. And yes, I prefer this over eyeliner C now, simply because I like a softer look.
Of course... additional shout-outs.
Well actually the Bubbi multi-function brush isn't a shout-out, it's an all-time favorite. Why is it discontinued??? I don't get it. SO GREAT for traveling, and honestly sometimes I just use it even when I'm not traveling cuz it's so great. So soft and applies powder SO WELL and so portable. Love love love.
SUQQU Face Brush... okay I would NEVER travel with this thing. Too expensive and I'm too scared to lose it. It's a luxury brush and it's super soft... but it's not a must. Still, a pleasure to use so here it is lol!
Eyeliner C also deserves a shout-out. Good brush =)
Only one favorite hair product from this year (aside from my old standby-- Aveda shampoos). Bumble & bumble Surf Infusion hair spray. Already talked about it on Instagram so not gonna elaborate.
Favorite perfumes!
Jo Malone Nectarine & Blossom. Still going strong =P Might get a full size one... Although I want to buy the Blue Agava & Cacao next... hmmmmm....
Chloe... the perfume?? LOL too lazy to look up the name...
======================================================================
Beauty resolutions for 2016 =)
This might be shocking to all of you XD But I want to stop using liquid foundations. For good. I will continue using up what's already been open on hand (or I might not... still deciding), but I think I will get rid of the rest and just use powder from here on out.
The reason why I made that decision is that being a pharmacist (yayy I can say that now) you learned that your skin ABSORBS a lot of stuff. A lot of medications work by being absorbed from the skin into the blood stream (like gels, patches, etc). I don't want my body to absorb anything unnecessary. These days I sometimes only apply skincare at night... or I haven't been wearing my Dior sunscreen at all just because it's been very gloomy and I just got lazy with the sun protection. Interestingly my skin got better O_O so even skincare products are just full of chemicals. Feel like my skin does better without most of it. I mean of course I'll still continue to use them LOL. But just trying to keep them to a minimum and just back to the basics. I think even though the Dior sunscreen is great, but because it literally fills in all the pores, it adds burden to my skin without me even realizing it.
Second resolution... take off my lip products before I eat. Don't want to swallow all that shit LOL. I still forget a lot of times. Working on it!!
Third... keep gyming/be physically active
Fourth... eat only till when I'm full. My new thing is to eat whatever I want and whenever I want (preferably only when I'm hungry or really really craving for something... or just if it feels really good/fits the mood :D) but to never be too full. NEVER stuff myself!! lol. Been doing really well on this. I no longer do cheat days... I feel like that kind of mentality actually made me have very unhealthy relationship with food. Cuz you're constantly restricting yourself and thinking about what you should reward yourself with at the end of the week you know? lol! I just want to eat and enjoy food and not think/obsess about it.
Fifth... cut down makeup expenses. Hahaha. Feel like such a hypocrite saying this cuz obviously I'm sharing things I like and therefore "promoting" stuff (in the sense I make my readers want to buy stuff XD) but I really just need to get away from YouTube and all that so I won't get "triggered". These days I mostly watch vlogs and just try to put my energy elsewhere. Time to move on to bigger and better things??? Can I save up for a house please??? LOL!!
Alrighty, if you've stuck around for this far, thank you =) thanks for reading my blog and just put up with my general ramblyness haha. Not sure where the direction of this blog's headed... I mean I love reviewing stuff... but since I want to actively distance myself from the makeup world so I won't get triggered to always wanting to buy/try new stuff... not sure what kind of content I will be able to bring you guys. Any thoughts?
Again... happy 2016 to you all! I'm really excited to see what 2016 has in store for me ^__^
Much much love,
<3 Frances
Monday, November 16, 2015
November 2015 Empties/Mini Reviews
Hi guys!!
Two posts in one day =D Haha reason why I'm so productive today is actually because I caught a cold -_- Just trying to stay out of the cold and away from people lol. Oh good news guys =) I passed both of my licensing exams!! =DD right now just waiting for the Board to issue me my license. Decided to put aside job applications for a while because it's almost impossible to apply for a position without my license. I was hoping some places might be willing to train me while I wait, but nope! lol. Anyway, since I'm just staying home and sneezing and coughing and trying to keep my head from exploding... figured might as well catch up on some blogging. I know it's only mid-November but I figured I already accumulated enough crap to talk about XD
1. Bumble and bumble thickening shampoo and conditioner samples
In general I would never go for high end conditioners, cuz I really feel like they don't make that much of a difference (since I only apply conditioner from the mid to ends of my hair it doesn't touch my scalp at all). This conditioner is no exception... didn't do much. I liked the shampoo though! My hair does feel more fluffy/voluminous when I use this. I got the travel size to play with, but I don't think I'd ever go for the full-size... too expensive for how much you get.
2. Perfect Whip cleanser
Don't think you can go wrong with Shiseido products lol. I think I went through 2 or 3 of these??? It's cheap and cheerful and does the job. Probably won't repurchase in a long time cuz right now my favorite drugstore facial cleanser is the Innisfree volcanic one, and I haven't got sick of that one yet so I'm gonna stick with that =D
I did good didn't I? haha. Sorry it looks kind of nasty.
2. Fasio mascara and Integrate mascara primer
Talked about these two here. Thoughts did not change so you can just refer to that if you're interested =)
Here's what the wands look like since I didn't show them in that post:
Very very fat wand lol.
Will I repurchase?
Well I don't have access to either, so nope! Haha. If you can try them at a reasonable price I would say you could give them a try. I haven't tried any mascara primer that tops the Majolica one. If I have access to the mascara I wouldn't mind picking the black one up. I like how the formula is very thickening, somewhat lengthening, yet it does not contain any fibers. That gets a thumbs up from me!
3. Yes To Grapefruit Body Wash
I like =) currently using up a LUSH soap that I got a while ago, as well as my Jo Malone body/hand soap that I got in a Nordstrom anniversary sale set, but once I finished those I will probably get something from Yes To.... unless something else really catches my eye.
4. Clinique Repairwear Lase Focus
I've never used an eye cream that made me feel a significant difference. So... I'll leave it at that. I was actually gonna purchase the full size of this but I got a Shiseido one instead cuz I wanted free shipping LOL. But I might revisit this product.
5. Innisfree Manuka Honey mask, My Beauty Diary Arbutin Whitening mask, Naruko mask
Kind of forgot about my sheet masks but pulled them out for extra hydration/whitening since the sun in Cali was pretty brutal in the summer. I enjoyed them all but none of them stood out to me. I used to really like the MBD arbutin one but I think they changed the sheet material and formula so now I'm more ambivalent.
6. Aveda Lip Saver
The last of my backup. Used to be my favorite lip balm but I'm happy with Lucas' Papaw Ointment and that one is MUCH cheaper lol.
7.
Another mask
8.
You guys sick of seeing this? haha
9. L'occitane Almond Shower Oil
Talked about it here:
It's nice if you want to pamper yourself... but I can do without it =D
10. Aveda Scalp Benefit Balancing Shampoo
Of all the Aveda shampoos I've tried, this one definitely feels the most drying to the scalp (think super deep clease). I wouldn't say it's stripping, but it's not a shampoo I would use daily. I did use it daily for a week and my scalp felt fine, but I prefer using it once a week as a deep cleanse. I actually purchased a 1L bottle of this and kind of regretted it... should've just got a small bottle for weekly use.
11. St. Ives Blemish Control apricot scrub
Sorry it looks nasty. I prefer the green tea scrub. The beads in this one are a lot bigger/rougher than the green tea one. I also used this on my body because there was just no way I could get through this if I used this exclusively on my face lol. Won't repurchase. Although I thought it was quite good as a body scrub XD
12. Belif The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb
Got this free sample size from Sephora. It's pretty good-- I think a lot of ppl would like the consistency and the formula of this. Even though I really liked it, I personally don't feel any different when I used this vs. using Cetaphil moisturizing lotion lol. Not interested in purchasing the full size.
13. Majolica Majorca Lash Expander Edge Meister
Reviewed here. Pretty sure I talked about this in one of my empties. Anyway, I have a lot of these but they aren't my favorite. When it dries out as you use it, it gets very clumpy because it has SO MUCH fibers in it. And I always have to make sure to use a tweezer to pull out any of the fibers sticking out so they won't poke my eyes. Also because of the high fiber content, it does dry out faster than other mascaras.
Hope you guys enjoyed =)
<3 Frances
Two posts in one day =D Haha reason why I'm so productive today is actually because I caught a cold -_- Just trying to stay out of the cold and away from people lol. Oh good news guys =) I passed both of my licensing exams!! =DD right now just waiting for the Board to issue me my license. Decided to put aside job applications for a while because it's almost impossible to apply for a position without my license. I was hoping some places might be willing to train me while I wait, but nope! lol. Anyway, since I'm just staying home and sneezing and coughing and trying to keep my head from exploding... figured might as well catch up on some blogging. I know it's only mid-November but I figured I already accumulated enough crap to talk about XD
1. Bumble and bumble thickening shampoo and conditioner samples
In general I would never go for high end conditioners, cuz I really feel like they don't make that much of a difference (since I only apply conditioner from the mid to ends of my hair it doesn't touch my scalp at all). This conditioner is no exception... didn't do much. I liked the shampoo though! My hair does feel more fluffy/voluminous when I use this. I got the travel size to play with, but I don't think I'd ever go for the full-size... too expensive for how much you get.
2. Perfect Whip cleanser
Don't think you can go wrong with Shiseido products lol. I think I went through 2 or 3 of these??? It's cheap and cheerful and does the job. Probably won't repurchase in a long time cuz right now my favorite drugstore facial cleanser is the Innisfree volcanic one, and I haven't got sick of that one yet so I'm gonna stick with that =D
I did good didn't I? haha. Sorry it looks kind of nasty.
2. Fasio mascara and Integrate mascara primer
Talked about these two here. Thoughts did not change so you can just refer to that if you're interested =)
Here's what the wands look like since I didn't show them in that post:
Very very fat wand lol.
Will I repurchase?
Well I don't have access to either, so nope! Haha. If you can try them at a reasonable price I would say you could give them a try. I haven't tried any mascara primer that tops the Majolica one. If I have access to the mascara I wouldn't mind picking the black one up. I like how the formula is very thickening, somewhat lengthening, yet it does not contain any fibers. That gets a thumbs up from me!
3. Yes To Grapefruit Body Wash
I like =) currently using up a LUSH soap that I got a while ago, as well as my Jo Malone body/hand soap that I got in a Nordstrom anniversary sale set, but once I finished those I will probably get something from Yes To.... unless something else really catches my eye.
4. Clinique Repairwear Lase Focus
I've never used an eye cream that made me feel a significant difference. So... I'll leave it at that. I was actually gonna purchase the full size of this but I got a Shiseido one instead cuz I wanted free shipping LOL. But I might revisit this product.
5. Innisfree Manuka Honey mask, My Beauty Diary Arbutin Whitening mask, Naruko mask
Kind of forgot about my sheet masks but pulled them out for extra hydration/whitening since the sun in Cali was pretty brutal in the summer. I enjoyed them all but none of them stood out to me. I used to really like the MBD arbutin one but I think they changed the sheet material and formula so now I'm more ambivalent.
6. Aveda Lip Saver
The last of my backup. Used to be my favorite lip balm but I'm happy with Lucas' Papaw Ointment and that one is MUCH cheaper lol.
7.
Another mask
8.
You guys sick of seeing this? haha
9. L'occitane Almond Shower Oil
Talked about it here:
It's nice if you want to pamper yourself... but I can do without it =D
10. Aveda Scalp Benefit Balancing Shampoo
Of all the Aveda shampoos I've tried, this one definitely feels the most drying to the scalp (think super deep clease). I wouldn't say it's stripping, but it's not a shampoo I would use daily. I did use it daily for a week and my scalp felt fine, but I prefer using it once a week as a deep cleanse. I actually purchased a 1L bottle of this and kind of regretted it... should've just got a small bottle for weekly use.
11. St. Ives Blemish Control apricot scrub
Sorry it looks nasty. I prefer the green tea scrub. The beads in this one are a lot bigger/rougher than the green tea one. I also used this on my body because there was just no way I could get through this if I used this exclusively on my face lol. Won't repurchase. Although I thought it was quite good as a body scrub XD
12. Belif The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb
Got this free sample size from Sephora. It's pretty good-- I think a lot of ppl would like the consistency and the formula of this. Even though I really liked it, I personally don't feel any different when I used this vs. using Cetaphil moisturizing lotion lol. Not interested in purchasing the full size.
13. Majolica Majorca Lash Expander Edge Meister
Reviewed here. Pretty sure I talked about this in one of my empties. Anyway, I have a lot of these but they aren't my favorite. When it dries out as you use it, it gets very clumpy because it has SO MUCH fibers in it. And I always have to make sure to use a tweezer to pull out any of the fibers sticking out so they won't poke my eyes. Also because of the high fiber content, it does dry out faster than other mascaras.
Hope you guys enjoyed =)
<3 Frances
Sunday, July 26, 2015
July 2015 Empties/ Mini Reviews
Hi hi!
It's time to go through my trash again LOL. Let's do this!!
1. Clinique Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector
I want to say it does nothing, but since I ran out of this and returned the Aveda one and only been using the Kiehls Avocado eye cream in the morning... I've been noticing my dark circles have been horrible O_o so maybe it did do something. Not repurchasing this time around but gonna get something with caffeine for my morning eye cream.
2. Clarins Shaping Facial Lift Lipo-drain Serum
Have had this for a longggg time. Stopped using it because it makes my skin feel dry??? It's kind of hard to describe. Not a tightening feeling, just it just gave me a weird feeling as if my skin is dehydrated from the inside. Lol I don't even know, I just know I don't like how it makes my face feel after. Anyway didn't want it to go to waste so I only applied it to the jawline and neck this time around (you're supposed to apply it to your entire face and neck, followed by a "massage" routine). This works for water retention so it does have a slimming effect. Lipo-drain? I think that's false claim. I bought two of them at that time so currently working on the second bottle.
3. Skin & Co. Truffle Body Milk Sample
Nothing special. Smell reminds me more of almond milk lol.
4. Clarins Advanced Extra-Firming Neck Cream
This is just a deluxe sample size I got when I purchased the lipo-drain serum. I actually liked it! And I do feel like it works. It does give you that tightening feeling and I feel like my double chin is less saggy/prominent while I used it LOL. Don't know if I'm gonna purchase the full size product. I feel like I like it but don't love it to splurge.
5. Diorsnow UVB Protection
... This is the first time I noticed it says "UVB" protection on this product. Does that mean it only has UVB protection and not UVA??? Or is it merely emphasizing it has UVB protection in addition to UVA??? I gotta look into it O_O
Anyway you guys know I love this sunscreen. Talked about it multiple times (see here). The only thing I will add though is it is more suitable for winter. Even in the desert/dry climate here in California, I found this sunscreen to be a bit too heavy in this heat... Didn't realize how heavy it feels until I switched to Anessa. That said I still love this sunscreen and I do have two more in my stash. I need to stop hoarding!!
I noticed they do have new packaging now! Which is awesome because when the product is low, the cap just will NOT stay on. Kept falling off which frankly was very annoying. I'm really glad they changed the packaging but I'm also bummed out that I have two of the old package ones -_- lol
Love that it comes with a pump. Super easy to control. Not sure if the new ones do (feel like the new ones look like regular screw-on lids).
Thought I squeezed out all of the product but when I cut it open there was SO MUCH product left. I ended up applying the leftover product on my body and there was more than enough.
6. Arcona Magic Dry Ice Hydrating Gel Sample
It was nice... ppl who like gel moisturizers will probably like this. But to me it wasn't special and I don't miss it. Smells like cherry flavored cough syrup which was a turn-off for me.
7. Origins Youthopia-Lift Firming Cream Sample
I'm not even sure if this was discontinued or renamed/repackaged. Can't seem to find the Youthopia line anymore. Anyway this thing is really old too but I do like it! Like the Clarins firming cream, it gives a tightening feeling and somewhat "reduce" the appearance of my double chin lol. I'm more inclined to look into firming products from Origins than Clarins... ummm... simply because I like Origins? lol.
8. Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Conditioner
Here's another one
You'll probably see this product on my blog until the day I stop blogging.
9. Guerlain Abeille Royale Face Treatment Oil Sample
I think it's nice and it does hydrate my face/make it plumper, but I don't think it's that special. First time I used it was very taken aback by the smell-- it was like applying perfume to my face. Doesn't smell like old lady exactly... maybe smells like rich middle aged lady skincare??? lol
10. Lancome Soothing Recharging Night Cream
This expired before I had a chance to try it on my face O_O I just used it on my body. I think I would've very much enjoyed it though. The name "cream" is really misleading because it's more of a thick gel. If you like the Clinique Moisture Surge I think you will enjoy this. It was very hydrating when I tried it on my body.
11. NUDE Progenius Omega Treatment Rescue Oil Sample
When I was at Sephora the SA insisted that I need to try this because she said it was basically the most amazing oil she's ever tried. Ummm... sadly didn't work out that way for me. It has rosehip oil so I was excited to test it out. But when I applied this it didn't want to sink it. The two nights I had it on I could feel a layer of oil on my face. The Sunday Riley oils and Guerlain oil didn't do that. And I didn't notice anything extraordinary either.
12. Yes to Coconut Polishing Body Scrub
The formula of this body scrub was very interesting-- it contained exfoliating beads in jelly. Don't know how else to describe it lol never used anything like this before. It did feel quite hydrating and not in a residue/uncomfortable sort of way. Not sure if I will repurchase. It was okay.
13. Wen Lavender Cleansing Conditioner
As you can see... the pump broke -_- I have no idea what happened to it. Anyway too lazy to use it. I'm pretty much over cleansing conditioners anyway so I just decided to toss it out. Such a waste but whatever. Not gonna try to hang on to products I don't like when I have so many other good products that are waiting for me to finish before they expire O_O lol.
14. Aveda Invati
Talked about it here. Since I wrote that very recently and my thoughts have not changed, please just refer to that :)
15. Maybelline Fashion Brow Duo in BR-1
Really enjoyed this product! At one point I was pretty much in love/obsessed with it lol but that has passed. Still doesn't change the fact it's great though! But it ran out quite fast @_@ seeing that I've never ran out of other brow products before.
One end is the twist up brow pencil, the other brow powder. I have backups of this product so I'll make sure to write about/swatch it the next time I open up a new one =P
16. Kate Lash Maximizer (white)
It contains a lot of little fibers, which became really annoying as the formula dried-- the little fibers stuck out and poked my eyes. The same applies to all fiber mascaras though-- have to make sure to use a tweezer to get all those fibers that are sticking out. It does the job of holding curls/volumizing, but I won't repurchase. Too expensive for what it is. There are cheaper and better options.
17. Mistine Super Model Mascara
This is a dual end mascara that I got while I was in Thailand. The description was all in Thai so I kind of had to figure out how to use it on my own LOL.Was a bit cautious when I bought it cuz I've never tried Thai cosmetics but I've seen positive reviews on it (from a Taiwanese YouTuber) so decided to give it a try.
1. Mascara has little curl hold. It doesn't make my lashes go stick straight but my lashes would lose a bit of the curl
2. The fibers stick poorly to the lashes if you don't lay something down as a base first
I used the mascara two ways. I'd use my mascara primer as always, put on a layer of the mascara, follow up with the fibers, then mascara again. More often I would use my own mascara primer, then just the mascara end. I found the mascara is pretty good for length/volume without the fibers.
If you want to use the fiber end but don't have your own mascara primer, I'd still suggest putting down a layer of mascara first, then fibers, then mascara so you can get the fibers to stick.
I will say, the fibers aren't messy as I anticipated. I didn't experience any fall outs/irritation while using it. Major kudos to that since I find most fiber formulation really irritating to eyes. When you apply the fibers to your mascara-coated lashes though, you might find the fibers clump up quite a bit. But that can be combed out as you use a second layer. Yeah kind of troublesome that's why I usually forgo the fibers lol.
I do have some application photos for you =P Took them a long time ago lol.
Not the cleanest looking lashes. Personally don't really care hahaha. They do look better from afar
Overall effect
Really love how much my lashes stand out with this mascara.
Pretty much in my last few posts I was using the primer+mascara combination (so no fibers). You can see the effect best here. The mascara itself works pretty well. Fiber end really isn't needed lol.
Will I repurchase? Probably not. I'd be totally willing to try out another mascara from Mistine though! I will probably just look for a regular mascara without fibers.
18. MAC Liquidlast Eyeliner in Coco Bar
Discontinued. Hoarded some backups when it was being discontinued. Later discovered Milani Infinite Liquid Eyeliner is a dupe.
... I always felt like I didn't finish that much stuff, but how come my empties posts always end up being so long? -_- lol.
Have a great rest of the day :)
<3 Frances
It's time to go through my trash again LOL. Let's do this!!
1. Clinique Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector
I want to say it does nothing, but since I ran out of this and returned the Aveda one and only been using the Kiehls Avocado eye cream in the morning... I've been noticing my dark circles have been horrible O_o so maybe it did do something. Not repurchasing this time around but gonna get something with caffeine for my morning eye cream.
2. Clarins Shaping Facial Lift Lipo-drain Serum
Have had this for a longggg time. Stopped using it because it makes my skin feel dry??? It's kind of hard to describe. Not a tightening feeling, just it just gave me a weird feeling as if my skin is dehydrated from the inside. Lol I don't even know, I just know I don't like how it makes my face feel after. Anyway didn't want it to go to waste so I only applied it to the jawline and neck this time around (you're supposed to apply it to your entire face and neck, followed by a "massage" routine). This works for water retention so it does have a slimming effect. Lipo-drain? I think that's false claim. I bought two of them at that time so currently working on the second bottle.
3. Skin & Co. Truffle Body Milk Sample
Nothing special. Smell reminds me more of almond milk lol.
4. Clarins Advanced Extra-Firming Neck Cream
This is just a deluxe sample size I got when I purchased the lipo-drain serum. I actually liked it! And I do feel like it works. It does give you that tightening feeling and I feel like my double chin is less saggy/prominent while I used it LOL. Don't know if I'm gonna purchase the full size product. I feel like I like it but don't love it to splurge.
5. Diorsnow UVB Protection
... This is the first time I noticed it says "UVB" protection on this product. Does that mean it only has UVB protection and not UVA??? Or is it merely emphasizing it has UVB protection in addition to UVA??? I gotta look into it O_O
Anyway you guys know I love this sunscreen. Talked about it multiple times (see here). The only thing I will add though is it is more suitable for winter. Even in the desert/dry climate here in California, I found this sunscreen to be a bit too heavy in this heat... Didn't realize how heavy it feels until I switched to Anessa. That said I still love this sunscreen and I do have two more in my stash. I need to stop hoarding!!
I noticed they do have new packaging now! Which is awesome because when the product is low, the cap just will NOT stay on. Kept falling off which frankly was very annoying. I'm really glad they changed the packaging but I'm also bummed out that I have two of the old package ones -_- lol
Love that it comes with a pump. Super easy to control. Not sure if the new ones do (feel like the new ones look like regular screw-on lids).
Thought I squeezed out all of the product but when I cut it open there was SO MUCH product left. I ended up applying the leftover product on my body and there was more than enough.
6. Arcona Magic Dry Ice Hydrating Gel Sample
It was nice... ppl who like gel moisturizers will probably like this. But to me it wasn't special and I don't miss it. Smells like cherry flavored cough syrup which was a turn-off for me.
7. Origins Youthopia-Lift Firming Cream Sample
I'm not even sure if this was discontinued or renamed/repackaged. Can't seem to find the Youthopia line anymore. Anyway this thing is really old too but I do like it! Like the Clarins firming cream, it gives a tightening feeling and somewhat "reduce" the appearance of my double chin lol. I'm more inclined to look into firming products from Origins than Clarins... ummm... simply because I like Origins? lol.
8. Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Conditioner
Here's another one
You'll probably see this product on my blog until the day I stop blogging.
9. Guerlain Abeille Royale Face Treatment Oil Sample
I think it's nice and it does hydrate my face/make it plumper, but I don't think it's that special. First time I used it was very taken aback by the smell-- it was like applying perfume to my face. Doesn't smell like old lady exactly... maybe smells like rich middle aged lady skincare??? lol
10. Lancome Soothing Recharging Night Cream
This expired before I had a chance to try it on my face O_O I just used it on my body. I think I would've very much enjoyed it though. The name "cream" is really misleading because it's more of a thick gel. If you like the Clinique Moisture Surge I think you will enjoy this. It was very hydrating when I tried it on my body.
11. NUDE Progenius Omega Treatment Rescue Oil Sample
When I was at Sephora the SA insisted that I need to try this because she said it was basically the most amazing oil she's ever tried. Ummm... sadly didn't work out that way for me. It has rosehip oil so I was excited to test it out. But when I applied this it didn't want to sink it. The two nights I had it on I could feel a layer of oil on my face. The Sunday Riley oils and Guerlain oil didn't do that. And I didn't notice anything extraordinary either.
12. Yes to Coconut Polishing Body Scrub
The formula of this body scrub was very interesting-- it contained exfoliating beads in jelly. Don't know how else to describe it lol never used anything like this before. It did feel quite hydrating and not in a residue/uncomfortable sort of way. Not sure if I will repurchase. It was okay.
13. Wen Lavender Cleansing Conditioner
As you can see... the pump broke -_- I have no idea what happened to it. Anyway too lazy to use it. I'm pretty much over cleansing conditioners anyway so I just decided to toss it out. Such a waste but whatever. Not gonna try to hang on to products I don't like when I have so many other good products that are waiting for me to finish before they expire O_O lol.
14. Aveda Invati
Talked about it here. Since I wrote that very recently and my thoughts have not changed, please just refer to that :)
15. Maybelline Fashion Brow Duo in BR-1
Really enjoyed this product! At one point I was pretty much in love/obsessed with it lol but that has passed. Still doesn't change the fact it's great though! But it ran out quite fast @_@ seeing that I've never ran out of other brow products before.
One end is the twist up brow pencil, the other brow powder. I have backups of this product so I'll make sure to write about/swatch it the next time I open up a new one =P
16. Kate Lash Maximizer (white)
It contains a lot of little fibers, which became really annoying as the formula dried-- the little fibers stuck out and poked my eyes. The same applies to all fiber mascaras though-- have to make sure to use a tweezer to get all those fibers that are sticking out. It does the job of holding curls/volumizing, but I won't repurchase. Too expensive for what it is. There are cheaper and better options.
17. Mistine Super Model Mascara
This is a dual end mascara that I got while I was in Thailand. The description was all in Thai so I kind of had to figure out how to use it on my own LOL.Was a bit cautious when I bought it cuz I've never tried Thai cosmetics but I've seen positive reviews on it (from a Taiwanese YouTuber) so decided to give it a try.
1. Mascara has little curl hold. It doesn't make my lashes go stick straight but my lashes would lose a bit of the curl
2. The fibers stick poorly to the lashes if you don't lay something down as a base first
I used the mascara two ways. I'd use my mascara primer as always, put on a layer of the mascara, follow up with the fibers, then mascara again. More often I would use my own mascara primer, then just the mascara end. I found the mascara is pretty good for length/volume without the fibers.
If you want to use the fiber end but don't have your own mascara primer, I'd still suggest putting down a layer of mascara first, then fibers, then mascara so you can get the fibers to stick.
I will say, the fibers aren't messy as I anticipated. I didn't experience any fall outs/irritation while using it. Major kudos to that since I find most fiber formulation really irritating to eyes. When you apply the fibers to your mascara-coated lashes though, you might find the fibers clump up quite a bit. But that can be combed out as you use a second layer. Yeah kind of troublesome that's why I usually forgo the fibers lol.
I do have some application photos for you =P Took them a long time ago lol.
Not the cleanest looking lashes. Personally don't really care hahaha. They do look better from afar
Overall effect
Really love how much my lashes stand out with this mascara.
Pretty much in my last few posts I was using the primer+mascara combination (so no fibers). You can see the effect best here. The mascara itself works pretty well. Fiber end really isn't needed lol.
Will I repurchase? Probably not. I'd be totally willing to try out another mascara from Mistine though! I will probably just look for a regular mascara without fibers.
18. MAC Liquidlast Eyeliner in Coco Bar
Discontinued. Hoarded some backups when it was being discontinued. Later discovered Milani Infinite Liquid Eyeliner is a dupe.
... I always felt like I didn't finish that much stuff, but how come my empties posts always end up being so long? -_- lol.
Have a great rest of the day :)
<3 Frances
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