I gave the BOJ sun serum a go last summer and honestly, I was obsessed at first. It applied beautifully, soaked in fast, and felt weightless, what’s not to love, right? I usually used it right after cleansing or sometimes after my toner (Peach Slices Snail Mucin, which my skin adores). It seemed like a match made in sunscreen heaven. But after a while, I started noticing that by the end of the day, my skin looked... kinda angry? A bit red and irritated. At first I brushed it off and thought maybe it was the weather or my other products but I kept coming back to the sun serum. Even when I reintroduced it after a winter break, the same thing happened. Fine at first, but a few hours later? Not so fine. For reference, I have sensitive, combo skin. I still love the idea of a serum-texture sunscreen (especially for lazy mornings when I forget to put one on later), but sadly, this one just doesn’t agree with my skin anymore. I’ve gone back to my Goodal calming sunscreen, which my skin seems to appreciate a lot more. If anyone has a sun serum that’s actually calming and plays well with reactive skin, I’m all ears!

In a market flooded with moisturizers that promise the world but often underdeliver, Little Extra’s Rice Berry Moisturizer quietly stands out. Designed for all skin types, this lightweight, antioxidant-rich formula has earned a permanent place in my routine and not just for what it does, but for how it feels. Texture & Application At first touch, the Rice Berry Moisturizer feels silky and light, with a consistency that smooths easily across the skin. It absorbs quickly and settles into a soft, matte finish, ideal for those who prefer minimal shine or need a reliable base under makeup. There’s no sticky after-feel or pilling, which makes it easy to reach for both morning and night. Formula Highlights The star of the formula, rice berry extract, is rich in antioxidants and lends the moisturizer its skin-repairing and protective qualities. Since incorporating it into my daily routine, I’ve noticed a visible improvement in my skin’s texture and resilience. It’s especially comforting on days when my skin feels stressed or sensitized. Performance & Skin Compatibility Perhaps what impresses me most is its balance, bringing deep hydration without heaviness, and nourishment without the risk of congestion. Even through colder, drier spells, it manages to keep my skin comfortably moisturized all day. It’s fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin I haven’t experienced any irritation, redness, or breakouts. Final Thoughts Little Extra’s Rice Berry Moisturizer might not come with flashy marketing or trendy ingredients, but it delivers where it matters most: comfort, hydration, and skin that looks and feels better. It’s a smart, thoughtful formula that quietly gets the job done, something I find myself appreciating more with each use. A daily staple worth holding onto.

Product : the SKIN HOUSE WRINKLE Supreme Serum About My Skin Type : Dry Main concerns : Wrinkles + blackheads Allergies : Animal fur Age : 30s How long I’ve used it : About 3 months now Packaging Nice, sturdy glass bottle with a pump and feels a bit luxe and hygienic, which I like. Ingredients Texture & Scent It’s got a thicker, slightly sticky texture at first, but it melts into the skin once you start rubbing it in and finishes light. Scent-wise, it’s a mild mix of floral and herbal which I think ginseng spa vibes. Not overpowering, but definitely present. The Good Stuff I noticed a soft, healthy glow pretty early on, and it really helped make my skin feel more firm and bouncy. It’s not greasy, not too watery, just right for my dry skin. Big bonus is it’s cruelty-free and full of plant-based ingredients like red ginseng, which is known for helping with lifting and smoothing. The Not-So-Great It does contain alcohol. It didn’t bother my skin, but if you’re super sensitive or reactive to alcohol, it’s worth patch-testing first. The Reason I Bought It I was looking for something to help with early signs of sagging and fine lines and I’d say it delivered. Hence If you’re dealing with dryness, fine lines, or just want your skin to look a bit more “alive,” this is a solid option. I’ve been using it regularly, and it’s definitely helped with firmness and elasticity. The sticky texture might throw you off at first, but it absorbs quickly with a little facial massage. Score : 4/5 It does what it says, feels good on the skin, and I’ve seen visible improvement in my skin’s texture. I’d absolutely keep using it! Let me know if you want swatches or a texture comparison. I’m happy to share more!

The Mixsoon Bean Essence has carved out a loyal following for good reason : this Korean multitasker exemplifies the fusion of minimalism and efficacy. Designed as both a mild exfoliant and hydrating essence, it uses fermented soybean extract, alongside pomegranate, barley, and pear to gently refine skin texture while boosting moisture levels. What makes it particularly noteworthy is its adaptability. The viscous, almost bouncy texture feels cushiony on the skin, and when massaged, the formula subtly pills, a process that lightly lifts dead skin cells without the harshness of traditional exfoliants. This makes it ideal for those with sensitive or reactive skin types who often find themselves navigating the fine line between over-exfoliation and congestion. In testing, the Bean Essence performs impressively under minimalist routines and layered regimens alike. Some people often report softer, more luminous skin within a week of consistent use, with improved absorption of subsequent products. Unlike stronger chemical exfoliants, it doesn’t compromise the skin barrier,a major selling point for barrier-conscious consumers. Pros - Gentle physical exfoliation with hydrating benefits - Minimalist, skin-friendly formula - Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin - Enhances glow and product absorption Cons - The pill-off texture might be off-putting to some - Requires gentle massaging for best results, which may not appeal to those who prefer low-effort routines The Mixsoon Bean Essence is a refined, skin-respecting product that delivers visible results without aggression. For those seeking smoother skin texture without the side effects of acids or scrubs, this is a standout addition to any routine.

* Spoiler! Brush On Block Protective Lip Oil came out on top! Lip oils are everywhere right now, and honestly? I thought they’d be a passing trend, just glosses rebranded. But I stand corrected. These aren’t just shiny topcoats; they’re hydrating, comfortable, and in many cases, have replaced my lip balms entirely. Think of lip oil as face oil but for your lips. Here’s my ranking from best to last, based on formula, wear, shade range, and comfort. Brush On Block Protective Lip Oil SPF 30 - 10/10 $25 | Mineral SPF 30 (Zinc) This one checks every box. It's nourishing, comfortable, non-goopy, and, rarely seen in the lip oil space, has broad-spectrum SPF 30 via zinc oxide. Why more brands haven’t added SPF to their lip oils is beyond me. The shade "Fig" is a perfect “my lips but better” tone, very Charlotte Tilbury-esque. I reach for this constantly, and it lasts much longer than a traditional balm. Truly, this is the first lip oil I’d call a skincare product in its own right. ILIA Balmy Gloss Tinted Lip Oil - 8.5/10 $26 | No SPF The formula is flawless, smooth, cushiony, and hydrating without being sticky. But ILIA’s shade range is hit-or-miss for me. I find their colors lean too warm or too bold when all I want is something neutral and enhancing. Still, if you find a shade that suits you, this is a top-tier lip oil, and also balm-replacement worthy. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil- 7/10 $20 | Stain-like formula This one’s been controversial online, with many saying it behaves more like a stain than an oil and I agree. It has a slick initial feel but quickly dries down and stains the lips. The idea is great, but the execution? A bit streaky. It’s not as hydrating or plush as ILIA or BOB, but I still like it enough to keep it in rotation. Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil - 5/10 $40 | Feels like a gloss This is a “cult classic” I just don’t get. It looks beautiful in the tube but performs like a sticky gloss, not a lip oil. It feels thick, slightly drying over time, and doesn't do much in the color payoff department unless you already have super pale lips. It’s not bad, but at $40? I expected far more. If I’m spending this much, I want hydration, comfort, and performance, not just packaging.

A Cushion That Means Business When It Comes to Coverage I’ve used my fair share of cushion foundations, from ultra-glowy skin tints to transfer-proof matte finishes. But few have made as lasting an impression as the TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Cushion — especially in the Porcelain 17C shade. Let’s start with the application and formula. The first thing I noticed was how unusually creamy the product felt for a cushion. It doesn’t immediately sink into the puff the way more watery formulas do. Instead, there’s a slight resistance — a density that actually works in its favor. One gentle press of the puff picks up just the right amount of product. It glides on seamlessly, and even with just one layer, it blurs out redness, hyperpigmentation, and uneven tone impressively well. This is not your light, barely-there coverage — this cushion leans medium-to-full, without looking masky. On days when my skin is more reactive — light rosacea across the cheeks, a few hormonal breakouts — this cushion helps even everything out while still letting my skin look like… well, skin. The finish is what I’d call a soft semi-matte — definitely not dry, but not radiant either. It’s elegant. I didn’t feel the need to set it with powder, and even without it, it held up beautifully through 7+ hours of wear. Now, about the shade and undertone. Porcelain 17C is marketed as a cool-toned fair shade, and it mostly fits that bill. However, once applied and fully set, I did notice a very subtle yellow tint — not orange or warm, but enough that it might register more neutral-to-warm under certain lighting. That said, on my fair-neutral skin, it worked beautifully and didn’t oxidize or shift color throughout the day. The packaging also deserves a mention — compact, sturdy, and with a magnetic snap that feels secure. I tossed it in my bag without a second thought. The puff holds up nicely through multiple uses, and the mirror is actually large enough to be functional on the go (a rarity). I wore this on a humid spring day, and it didn’t break apart or pool around my nose. And when I wore it with mask, it didn’t transfer onto my mask — truly mask fit, as promised. It’s not the most hydrating cushion, so prep well if you’re dry-skinned. With a light moisturizer underneath, I had no issues. In summary: If you’re looking for a cushion foundation that prioritizes coverage, longevity, and a clean, polished finish, this is a solid investment. It’s not the glowiest or most skin-like option out there, but it delivers results — especially on days when your skin needs a bit more help. Porcelain 17C may pull ever so slightly yellow, but it still reads neutral enough to suit many fair skin tones. Would I repurchase? Honestly, yes. It feels like the kind of base I’ll reach for when I have no time to build layers — when I need one product that does the job with minimal effort.

I’ve been hearing so much hype about the Numbuzin No.3 Serum, so when I finally got my hands on it, I was seriously excited. A lot of beauty influencers I follow were raving about how smooth and hydrated their skin felt after using it. However, after trying it for a couple of weeks, I’m honestly not sure if this is the magic serum people claim it to be. First off, the texture of the serum is very lightweight, but that also meant it didn’t do much for my skin. It didn’t feel as moisturizing as I expected, and I found myself applying more layers than I normally would with other products. It was like it just sat on top of my skin rather than sinking in, and I wasn’t left with that dewy, plump feeling that I hoped for. I also don’t feel like it did much in terms of smoothness. While it went on easy enough and my skin felt soft immediately after applying it, the effect didn’t last long. The smoothness seemed to fade within a few hours, and my skin went back to its usual texture. For a product that’s supposed to give you that “baby skin” effect, I wasn’t seeing it. Maybe it works better for those with naturally smooth skin, but it didn’t do enough for my texture issues. Another thing I didn’t love was how it didn’t really enhance my makeup either. I used it as a primer before applying foundation, and while my makeup didn’t look worse, it definitely didn’t look any better. There was no noticeable difference in how smooth my foundation went on, and I still found some of my makeup settling into lines and dry patches. Honestly, I had high hopes for this serum, but after using it for two weeks, I haven’t seen any standout results. I’m just not convinced that it’s worth the price for what it delivers. It didn’t hydrate as much as I hoped, and it didn’t leave me with that fresh, glowy skin that was promised. I’ll finish the bottle, but I don’t think I’ll be repurchasing it anytime soon. If you’re looking for something that will transform your skin and give you that glass-skin glow, this might not be it. It’s not a terrible product, but I definitely won’t be adding it to my holy-grail list anytime soon.

💗 First Impressions: 8/10 Simple packaging. Hygienic. Doesn’t look fancy, but that’s fine — I’m not paying for glass jars and gold foil. 📝 Texture: 9/10 Soft. Smooth. Non-sticky. Absorbs fast but doesn’t vanish into thin air. Like a perfectly balanced tofu (weird, but accurate). Not oily, not gel-ish. Somewhere in the comforting middle. 🤓 Ingredients: 9.5/10 Centella, panthenol, ceramides, squalane — yes, yes, and YES. Everything I look for when my skin is irritated or stressed. No heavy fragrance. No drama. 🌸 Performance: 8.5/10 Calms redness within 20 minutes. Doesn’t sting. When I overdo acids or my skin barrier is just tired, this one resets everything quietly. 😕 Downsides? • Probably not moisturizing enough for very dry skin in winter. • Comes in a tube, which is great, but I wish the nozzle was smaller to control the amount better. 😎 Overall Score: 8.7/10 A cream I actually finish and repurchase. Not flashy. No fake promises. Just a really good, barrier-supporting moisturizer that I can rely on. It won’t turn you into a K-drama lead, but your skin will stop being mad at you. And honestly, that’s all I want on a weekday.

Skin type: Dry, sensitive-prone (face + body) Fragrance sensitivity: Very Usage context: Shared bathroom with 3 roommates, aka no space for 10 bottles Main question before purchase: Can one bottle really do it all… and not ruin everything? 🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿 Let me just say: the name “Top To Toe” used to scare me. It sounded like something a gym would have in their showers. I always assumed any product claiming to clean both your scalp and your shins would probably do a half-hearted job at both. But after going through a brutal winter with skin flaking off my legs like croissant crumbs, I got desperate. This was on sale, fragrance-free, and huge. So I tried it. And I… liked it? 🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿 This is NOT your squeaky-clean gel body wash. It comes out as a runny lotion-gel hybrid, sort of like watered-down moisturizer. It doesn’t foam much, which at first made me question if I was actually getting clean. But once you rinse, there’s no residue — just skin that feels calm. Like it got a hug. Face Use I was extremely cautious at first. I patch tested for 3 days behind my ears like a drama queen. No irritation, no tightness, no tiny bumps the next day. It’s very gentle. It doesn’t remove waterproof sunscreen or makeup well, but for a morning cleanse or no-makeup days? Totally fine. Body Use My dry arms and shins LOVE this. It doesn’t strip the skin, and after a week, my itchy red bumps on the back of my thighs calmed down. Bonus: no added fragrance, so I don’t walk around smelling like “cotton rainwater dreams” or whatever body washes are doing these days. Hair Use? …No. I didn’t try. I respect myself too much. The label says it’s okay for hair, but unless you have a shaved head or zero hair products, I wouldn’t go there. 🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿 Who should use this • Babies, people with sensitive skin, anyone tired of dry patches • Households where you want one giant bottle everyone can use • People who hate overly perfumed body washes • Me, apparently, because I repurchased the refill pouch Downsides • It’s boring. No scent, no lather, no joy-in-a-shower type product. • Might be too mild if you love that fresh-scrubbed, body-wash-commercial feeling. • The pump is weirdly strong. Like, it shoots out across the tub if you’re not careful. Final Verdict: This is the beige sweater of body washes: not flashy, but cozy, dependable, and your skin won’t complain. If you want functionality over fragrance, this is your bottle. Just… maybe don’t use it on your hair unless you’re into experiments.

PRIVATE. DO NOT POST. → Oh no wait. Maybe I should share this. Subject: New Gray-Brown Mascara Test — Etude Curl Fix • 7:02 AM — Applied one coat (don’t forget: right eye always clumps more). • Formula: still sticky in the first 30 sec, but not heavy. • Color: 10/10. Gray brown is my new love language. Less harsh than black, more defining than brown. Subtle but not invisible. Ideal for “no makeup” days that are actually high maintenance. • Curl hold: this mascara is holding on to my lashes like it’s got abandonment issues. It survives subway humidity, awkward crying in the office bathroom, AND windy crosswalks. Respect. • Brush shape: why is it always trying to stab my inner corners? Must train hand. • 8:12 PM — still curled. No flakes. One small smudge on lower lash line (left eye only — again, LEFT. Always.) Conclusion: Don’t toss the receipt. But also… buy a backup.