Monday, July 23, 2012

My First Beauty Review! Aritaum Essence Sheet Mask


This review is about Sheet Masks. Sheet masks are really popular in Korea, but I haven’t seen them very frequently in NY. They are very easy to find online, though, so don’t worry if you want to try them! They come in sealed plastic-foil packages, and you only use each mask once. You apply it on a clean face and leave it there from 15-30 minutes, depending on the brand and specific mask (make sure you read the directions!). The masks have cutouts for the eyes, nose and mouth, so are relatively easy to apply. It looks kind of like a mask that a murderer in a horror movie would wear, but don’t let that deter you! If you are having a girls’ night, the masks are a fun addition. You can take some pictures and NEVER release them to the world! The masks are very wet when you take them out of the package, so I usually apply them over the sink.

This sheet mask claimed to have moisturizing properties. It was the Olive sheet mask from Aritaum. Similar ones can be found at this website. Here’s a picture of the packaging: 

I left the mask on for about 15 minutes, which is the upper end of what the directions recommend.

After I took the mask off, I rubbed and gently patted the extra moisture into my skin (and there was quite a lot of excess fluid from the mask). After patting for a few minutes, my skin still hadn’t dried and I lost patience and gently patted my face with a facecloth. I then rubbed in what little remained.

I actually didn’t apply my normal nighttime lotion and cream, because my face felt so hydrated after the mask. I was a little worried about breaking out after I slept with the residue on my face, but nothing to worry about: no breakouts. The next morning, after my usual routine of washing, toning, and moisturizing my face, I saw that my skin did look more hydrated and ‘glowy’ that day. Unfortunately, the effect only lasted for that one day.

Despite this, I would recommend this product! They are pretty cheap, which is always a plus. There was no unpleasant smell, and the only slight issue was all of the moisture remaining on my skin after I took off the mask. I would use it the night before or the morning of a special day, like a date or an interview. However, I would recommend trying it out before that special day to make sure it works with your body and skin.  

Note: Looking for this product online, I noticed that it has been discontinued :-/ Sorry about that. But, the website I’m linking has other masks by Aritaum that you can order. I’ve tried the Aloe mask, and it moisturized my skin like the olive mask did. 

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Hello!


Since this is the first post on my new blog, I’d like to introduce myself.

I love books, nature, music, and adventures. Last year, I lived in Korea (and enjoyed every minute of it). I learned a lot and changed a lot, and one thing that grew in particular was my interest in beauty products, skincare, and clothing. I had always been concerned about my skin, as cancer and skin darkening runs in my family. So, I make it a priority to protect my skin. 

As I spent more time in Seoul, my interest in skincare products and makeup blossomed. There were so many products I had never heard of, and different beauty retailers all around commercial areas. The selections were amazing, and I was able to bring some products home with me. But don't worry, if you want to you'll be able to find the products I discuss without taking a trip to Seoul; it's quite easy to order Korean and other beauty products online. I think that for the most part I will be reviewing products I love or hate and find fun or interesting. 

I read somewhere that makeup is a woman’s best armor. I’m not sure I believe that; it’s most important to be confident and strong on the inside. But, the skin is your literal armor, so I really believe in taking good care of it. And why not dress it up from time to time?

I hope you enjoy my posts and reviews as much as I enjoy making them!