
Origins Clear Improvement Mask was on my Sephora Family and Friends Wishlist in Novemember of 2011, and I ended up purchasing it. I’ve been using it once per week as suggested. I love it! Since I loved it so much, I’ve even given my sister and husband a facial using it.

“Activated charcoal acts like a magnet to draw out deep-dwelling pore-cloggers. White China clay absorbs environmental toxins, and lecithin dissolves impurities. Without all that stuff down there, skin breathes a sigh of relief. Best for all skin types. “- Sephora
What it is:
A mask with activated charcoal to draw out deep-dwelling pore-cloggers.
What it is formulated to do:
When environmental toxins, dirt, and debris get under your skin, its waste-filtering system gets jammed, pores get clogged, and skin looks cloudy. Nature’s complexion clean-up crew gets to the bottom of skin’s overcast condition and clears the way for it to act its best.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Synthetic Dyes
- Petrochemicals
- Phthalates
- GMOs
- Triclosan

Mask Immediately After Application
This was my first charcoal mask. I’ve wanted to try this one in particular due to the rave reviews, and the benefits of using it. I have trouble with breakouts on my forehead. I’m also oily in my t-zone. This was the perfect product for me. Normally, I like to start using new products on a Sunday, so I waited until then to use it. I used it once per week as suggested since November, and I couldn’t be happier.
The recommended usage is to open your pores with a warm towel, then apply the product. I tried it this way at first, then I decided to use my Clarisonic first to cleanse my face & open my pores, then apply the mask. I noticed better results by doing it my way. My skin felt a lot smoother and looked brighter. I didn’t notice a difference in the size of my pores, as I don’t have large pores anyway. Also, my skin felt refreshed, and I didn’t experience any dryness.
Once the mask is on, you can feel it tightening and a tiny bit of tingling. I did not feel a burning sensation as others have mentioned. The tightening inhibits your ability to talk, eat etc. Usually, with a mask that dries like this, I’d experience a powdery fall-out, but, with this one I did not. After the ten-15 minute waiting period, I either used a warm rag to wipe it off or hopped into the shower to get it off as I showered.
You would think that since the product contained charcoal, it would feel grimy and gritty, it did not. The consistency of the product reminded me of a thicker version of Elmer’s glue but without the stickiness ixed with pudding. I’ve read about the product staining people’s clothing or wash rags, I had no experience with this. If you are really worried about getting messy while using this, I suggest using an old foundation brush to apply it.
Would I recommend?
I would definitely recommend this product if you’re looking for something to detoxify your and brighten your skin, help with acne and oil. It’s worth the price ($22/3.4 oz), and it will definitely last you a while. I’ve had mine for three months, and the tube is practically full. I would suggest using only a nickel sized amount to cover your face.
Since I had a good experience with this, I decided to try Belle Butters Neutralizing Butter for Oily Skin, which has charcoal. You can peep my preliminary review here.

Mask After 10 minutes of drying
Disclosure: I purchased this item with my own money. This is my honest opinion/review.

The shimmer did make me feel like a teenager. I will probably end up giving it to my niece. It’s just not for me. It did look nice after it began to wear off. Good thing it came in that gift box, otherwise, I wouldn’t have picked it up. I also think it would probably work better on a lighter skin tone.


This one gives you vanilla-scented glowing skin. It’s shaped like an abstract heart and smells rather beautifully of vanilla and lavender, with a hint of herbal clary sage. Shimmy Shimmy is considered the crowning achievement in Helen’s experiments with fragrance.
The real attraction is the way it makes your skin shine. The glitter is very subtle, but ever so effective, giving your skin a pinky-bronze glow that lights up pale, wintery skin.
Lavender oil is antiseptic, antibacterial, deodorizing and relaxing.
I was contacted to do a review of any one of the shirts/dresses from lovemode.com. Lovemode offers a large selection of trendy, cute, and affordable (most items are priced in the $20 range) junior’s fashion clothing for any occasion. Before you start with the “Oh you’re not a junior” crap. I know that. Good thing I am small enough (even after having a baby) to fit into junior-sized clothing.
For the review, I chose the Royal Blue Ruffle Dress (it comes in green too). The original price is $26.89 and it’s currently onsale for $20.17. I chose this dress for the color (blue and purple are my favorites), and the style. I love that it has pockets too. If you see my closet, most of my dresses have pockets; I’m obsessed! This is the perfect dress to slip on & just go. You can dress it up or down with different accessories and shoes.

The weather here in NYC has been up and down, and way too cold to wear what I chose. I did think about pairing it with a sweater, tights or leggings, and boots but since I breast feed, the dress was an inconvenience. I couldn’t wear it to work because it is way too short, and I don’t get down like that – for work at least .:lol:. With that said, I ended up wearing it during my recent vacation in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This was the perfect time because the weather was perfect; low to mid-80′s and no rain, and I didn’t have to worry about having access to my breasts.

The dress is comfortable and cool. My only complaint would probably be that it is hard to get out of. There’s no zipper, so you have to pull the dress over your head. The cinching at the waist makes that a little difficult. But, for the price I can overlook that.
I would suggest purchasing clothing from lovemode.com, especially if you are looking for an outfit for the club or for your next vacation. Lovemode.com always has special offers & shipping deals on their Facebook page. As a matter of fact, they are currently having a 25% off Winter Clearance sale with free shipping for orders over $50.
Disclosure: This product was sent to me for free by the company or its representative. I was not paid for this post. These are my honest opinions.
PINKY PARADISE (VIDEO REVIEW)
Video is best to watch FULL SCREEN so you can see the before & after a lot better.
Want to change up your look and try something new? Wear colored lenses and want to try a different brand? Pinky Paradise is the brand for you and I’ve even included a special promo code for you below where you can get great gifts if you decide to purchase your own pair.

So why should you choose Pinky Paradise?
1. Great choices. 600 plus choices of circle lenses, ranging from natural series, enlarging series to cosplay series)
2. Ready stocks. Products will be shipped out in 1-3 days.
3. More than just circle lenses. PP also carries lashes, mascara, facial mask to BB cream and etc
4. PinkyParadise is ‘your eye make up one-stop online beauty store’
COUPON CODE: theblisslist
By entering this coupon code:
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Caution Notes:
You are best advised to consult your eye doctor before wearing any contact lens. It is your responsibilities to minimize the risk of wearing lenses. Kindly please read the wear & care guide carefully to ensure proper handling of lenses (which is provided in the website). The rule of thumb for your eye safety is, if you experience any discomfort, please remove the lens immediately.
Disclosure: The product reviewed was sent to me by the company or its representative. The thoughts and opinions are my own, and are honest.