The Face Shop FACE it Aura CC Cream Review

Hello everyone, how's Monday going for you? 

Only half the day passed - not even close to 10% of the week is over and yet, I am already looking forward to this (long) weekend ahead!!

If you are still unaware of it, I have actually done up a review on the FACE it Aqua CC Starter from The Face Shop recently. It is a make-up base which helps to moisturise your skin and at the same time maximise the feeling of CC cream or any other make-up. I really really love this product. I'd really recommend it to you girls who might be searching for a make-up base!  (You may read more about the FACE it Aqua CC Starter here.) 



So now.. Let's take a look at the 
FACE it Aura CC Cream from The Face Shop

What is this Aura CC Cream?

Basically, the FACE it Aura CC Cream is a make-up product that is similar to a BB Cream (but lighter). It is one that helps brighten and even up your skin tone and complexion while providing a natural (not full) coverage to any blemishes or redness. 

(very hydrating & long lasting too!!)

Just like the Aqua CC Starter, the Aura CC Cream also has an SPF of 30, PA ++. 

(Thumbs up for sun protection!)

The CC cream is coloured, different from most CC creams. (What I've heard was that they are colourless)

The Aura CC Cream is available in 2 different shades: bright beige and natural beige - you can try out the tester at the stores. 

If you are unsure, remember to seek advises from the sales staff there.

(I am using the #01 Bright Beige as my skin tone is pretty light)

The Packaging

(Please pardon me for the dirty looking cushion and mirror, i've been using it for half a year already)

Unlike most CC Cream packaging which are in tubes, the Aura CC Cream comes in a cute, pale pink compact container, together with a cushion and mirror. The cream container at the middle is refillable & separable - I love how how it comes with a pump, which you'll have to press in order to dispense the cream from a hole in the center. (See more photos below)

This compact container packaging is light-weight and convenient to carry around in your bag, making any necessary touching up of your CC cream while you're out an easy task.

(You wont have to worry about spilling any cream or having an excess squeezed out of a tube too!)

The refills of Aura CC Cream

The refills can be purchased from The Face Shop outlets, which cost around $30+ each 

(very expensive, I would suggest ordering it online, they are always cheaper.. Though I've never tried doing so)

The refills comes with a new cushion and the same pump. All you have to do is to replace the old one with the new refill!

The texture of this product

I would say that it is a slightly liquidy formula, almost the same as that of a BB cream. Some of the reviews which I've read online actually mentioned that they found the cream drying to their skin. However in my opinion, the cream was pretty moisturising for me and definitely, it glides really well on my skin. But of course, it is dependent on your own preference and skin type.

You may watch my daily make-up routine video to see what the CC Cream does.

(Click here - watch from 02:45 onwards)

*It is more advisable to pat the cream lightly and slowly onto your face, but for the past few months I've been "wiping" them instead (as seen in the video) - not anymore now though!*

Honestly I find that it might get a little sticky after applying the cream, which is why it also gives a more dewy finish. 

(Nowadays I actually set it with a little loose powder and touch up with moisturiser to achieve a dewy look)

Ingredients

Clearly, the Aura CC Cream was made with a lot of ingredients as well (which we don't understand at all)

However if you have read my review on the Aqua CC Starter, you should more or less know what you should do in such situations. Remember, the more the ingredients does not mean that the product is better! Always test out the products with the testers provided to see if they are to your liking and etc. Again, if you have any allergy, be sure to double check that the ingredients stated on the packaging will not affect you.

How to use the Aura CC Cream?

Apply  the CC cream onto your face and neck (blend well), after you have applied the Aqua CC Starter (recommendable) or your own make-up base.

To apply the CC cream, you can either use the cushion provided or a round brush which is meant for liquid foundation or BB cream. It is optional but recommendable to set the CC cream with some loose powder after you are done applying it. 

(example of a round brush)

The CC cream, although provides natural coverage, does not fully cover any dark spots, scars or pigments. Therefore, you can consider concealing them further with a concealer of your own choice.

Why should you use the Aura CC Cream?

Not only does it include SPF, it also keeps your skin a little hydrated throughout the day (in my opinion). This slightly tinted cream brightens your skin and evens out its tone, making your complexion look flawless and clear with a dewy finish. 

(I'd say that it makes your skin look really beautiful - if you are the type who loves a dewy finish like I do!) 

*Note: Some people felt that it makes their face look cakey, but really, it doesn't!!! (At least to me..)* 

Difference between BB Cream and CC Cream?

A BB Cream is more similar to the coverage of a foundation, but less thick.

On the other hand, a CC Cream, focuses more on skincare rather than coverage. Hence a CC Cream actually provides a more natural but not as heavy coverage as compared to BB Cream. (CC Cream is definitely lighter)

I've only tried out BB Cream samples, which I'd say that I did love using them. But I prefer CC Cream since it feels light on my face. I personally feel that the CC Cream does not clog up pores as much compared to a BB Cream (since it is thicker)

I did like the texture of a BB cream too though, but I believe they are way too whitening and more cakey for me - I dont know. I might try it out again some day, properly.

Will I recommend or repurchase this product?

Yes, definitely! If you prefer a light make-up routine, this is it!

The Aura CC Cream feels light on your skin, and I really love how it makes my skin look flawless. It did cover up the natural redness I have around my cheeks area. My face complexion looks brighter and even with this CC Cream, and I absolutely love the dewy finish! Really love how it does not make my skin look cakey at all! (Did not irritate or cause my skin to breakout too)

Furthermore, I feel that it is pretty lasting, I have never really needed to touch up my face while I'm out. 

It is even better now since I set it with loose powder.

Also, the amount of formula in one container lasted me for half a year plus (if you use it very sparingly maybe even longer than that!)

If you have a normal skin tone or slightly darker skin and want a better brightening effect, I'd suggest you to choose the Light Beige 01 - just make sure that you don't overdo the coverage and make your face look too white.

In Singapore's Face Shop outlets, the Aura CC Cream costs about $40 ~ 45 if I remembered it correctly. Pretty costly, especially for the refills  -  there are definitely cheaper ones online. Just make sure that the sites are trust worthy in terms of the quality of the products. 

All in all, if you are not calculative when it comes to make-up products, go ahead and get this Aura CC Cream from The Face Shop!

Watch my daily make-up routine video here

Related posts:

The Face Shop FACE it Aqua CC Starter Review

4 Simple Steps of a Daily Make-up Routine: Achieving The Korean Dewy look

The Face Shop FACE it Aqua CC Starter Review

Hey there all you lovely girls (and perhaps some guys)!

I am finally drawing out some time to follow up on my one of my blog post regarding my daily make-up routine a couple of weeks ago! (click here to read)

Before I blog about the CC cream, I'd prefer to first talk about the FACE it Aqua CC Starter from The Face Shop, which I am currently using (almost daily) before I apply my CC cream.
Updated: FACE it Aura CC Cream Review





What is this Aqua CC Starter?

It is simply a make-up base that also functions well as a mosturiser. 
By the name 'Aqua', you can easily guess what this make-up base does at the same time - moisturising and hydrating your skin. Not only that, it also contains SPF (Sun Protection Factor), protecting your skin against UVB rays which potentially causes sunburns (and skin cancer if your skin is left unprotected - the DNA in your skin cells gets damaged and builds up over time, possibly causing cells to grow out of control)
PA on the other hand, refers to Protection Grade of UV-A.  (PA ++ provides moderate UVA protection)

For your information:
I read somewhere on the internet that a product with an SPF of 30 is good enough, and not recommended to go over 50 or below 30  (as according to a director of dermatologic surgery and dermatology)

Do note that this make-up base is colour-less. I've read some reviews by others - they misread that this product has some tints of colouring - but don't be mistaken, it doesn't! 
The packaging only states that it helps to correct uneven skin tone and texture while being exclusively designed to maximise the feeling of CC cream.

*This product works really well with the FACE it Aura CC Cream from The Face Shop*





The Packaging



I'll be honest, I really love the look of the tube itself.
It is actually a very pale, light blue colour with a small greyish part at the top, with silver wordings. I loved even more - the cover of the tube. The smooth, reflective silvery colour in my opinion, adds some classy feeling to it.
I'd give it's external visual a thumbs up! 





The texture of this product

The texture of the Aqua CC starter is just like that of a moisturiser and a little like a sunblock - I don't exactly know how I should describe it clearly, it is not sticky but a lil' liquidy which glides pretty well on your skin.  (I fell in love with it's texture and the moisturising feeling it gave me when I tried the tester at the store itself!!)
Some may find it a little sticky at first though, but you'll soon realise how it actually makes you feel refreshed with a cooling sensation after applying it!  (It helps to add on some glow to your face too.)

I did not take a photo of the product itself, but you may watch my make-up video here (2:05 onwards)





Ingredients

As you can see, a lot of ingredients were used to make this product.
I'm far from being any cosmetics or skincare expert, neither am I as knowledgeable yet.  But I believe that this is pretty common for most of us out there, who clearly do not understand the alien-looking names of the ingredients. 
Now, I may not be able to explain further on the ingredients used in the Aqua CC starter.  However, in my opinion, to know whether or not the product is suitable for you, always test them out with the testers provided.  (To check whether it's to your liking, what it does and whether your skin is actually sensitive to it)

Marcus, one of the sales staff at Plaza Sing's SaSa outlet, advised me that products with more ingredients are better - which however, I personally disagree with this.  (Don't get me wrong, he is a very nice sales staff! Click here to read about my shopping experience at Sasa, Plaza Sing to find out more)

In my opinion, the more ingredients a product has DOES NOT necessarily mean that it is better. Certain ingredients contain more than one function, hence lesser ingredients may have been used.  In addition, there may be trade secret ingredients which can't be listed on the packaging. 

Either way, it depends on how you look at it. I'd say that sometimes, you'll really have to try out the product.   However, if you have an allergy, be sure that you check the list of ingredients to ensure that they don't affect you.

How to use the Aqua CC Starter?

In case you are not sure, this is used before you apply any make-up like your foundation, CC cream, etc. (But don't forget to carry out your usual morning skincare routine!!)  Like some other users, you can also use this as a moisturiser in your skin care routine. 

Additionally, after applying the Aqua CC starter, you can choose to apply a thin layer of sunscreen for better protection.  (Most girls put on a separate sunscreen before any make-up)
Or should I say, you must (try to). Even though your make-up products may have the ability like that of a sunscreen, it is never enough. 
If you don't use make-up, the sunscreen is usually the last step of a skincare routine.

I personally don't use additional sunscreen (as of now) since I am usually indoors, but I'll probably use sunscreen again once I head back to school the next semester. 
(The sunscreens from The Face Shop are pretty nice, I had some samples back then and I kind of used them when I go to school because it made my skin look more glowy & "clear", and protected my skin from harmful UV rays too!) 

The Aqua CC starter is pretty easy to apply. You need not squeeze out too much of an amount, an approximate size of your small & cute little nails is good enough for your whole face!  You can though, adjust to your own preference. 
Be warned however, that the first few times of usage when the tube is so full, loads of it squirts out at once (i really hated it, but I soon got used to adjusting it anyway!)





Why should you use Aqua CC Starter?

Definitely, a make-up base is important & an essential in your make-up routine. It especially helps to maximise your make-up (e.g. foundation, BB/CC cream, etc.) 
I also feel that it helps to protect your pores from being clogged up too much.  (But of course, removing your make-up properly and cleansing your face well is the most significant factor in such prevention)
Furthermore, like I said again & again - it protects you from harmful UV rays & helps to keep your skin hydrated and moisturised. (No feelings of dryness on your skin at all!) 

All-in-all: worth trying, and it also helps in the steps to achieve the Korean dewy look as well!




Will I repurchase or recommend it?

Yes! It doesn't cause me any breakouts and I simply love how it moisturises my skin and keeps it freshly hydrated even after I apply my CC cream. 
It adds some glow and brightens up my face slightly even without the CC cream!
One tube of this goodness was very worth my money - guess how long one of this lasts for me?

Almost 6 months and STILL counting.

On certain days I use more than usual, sometimes by accident.  However surprisingly, the whole tube - although finishing since a couple of months ago - still has a fair amount left for me to use, probably at least for the next 2 weeks to a month!
I was really surprised because I pretty much use it daily since I am on internship. (Or perhaps I used it very sparingly) 
But.. 
Not too bad I'd say!! I believe one tube like this was around $25? It is way too long ago for me to remember, but definitely less than $30. (Or was it even cheaper...)

So yes, I strongly recommend you all to try this out if you are searching for a make-up base.  (What's better than one that focuses on your skincare?)




I hope this review was useful to some keen & potential buyers of this product!! Feel free to ask me questions if there's any & stay tuned for my review on FACE it Aura CC Cream!



Watch my daily make-up routine video here



Related posts: 4 Simple Steps of a Daily Make-up Routine: Achieving The Korean Dewy look The Face Shop FACE it Aura CC Cream Review

4 Simple Steps of a Daily Make-up Routine: Achieving The Korean Dewy look

At some point of time, every girl wants to doll-up
HOW TO ACHIEVE A SIMPLE KOREAN DEWY LOOK IN JUST 15 MINUTES

4 STEPS ONLY! QUICK & EASY JUST FOR YOU! 
If you are searching for a make-up routine that is very simple, quick & easy and last but not least, not heavy or fanciful, this is what I recommend you! This make-up is also suitable for "korean-wannabes" who are looking for a Korean dewy look. Perfect for a poly or university student searching for a simple look, suitable for work & outings with friends too! 




What you will need:  *CC stands for Colour Control


1. CC Cream Starter/Make-up base  (I am using the FACE it Aqua CC Starter from The Face Shop - Read review here)


2. CC Cream  (I am using the FACE it Aura Colour Control Cream from The Face Shop - Review to be posted up soon) Note: This can be replaced with a BB cream, but I would suggest using a CC cream (to be explained further soon when I do a review.) as it is lighter and less thick. Foundation will make your face look cakey, however it is fine to use it on certain areas. (Some people use foundation to cover parts they don't want to "glow" so much)


3. Brown Eyebrow Pencil  (I am using the Browmaster Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil, 02 Dark Brown, from The Face Shop - no intention to do a review yet)  Note: The flat tip kind or any eyebrow kit works just fine. It's up to your own preference or just use what you have always been using)


4. Lipstick  (I am using the FACE it Lesson 03 Artist Touch Lipstick, PK102, from The Face Shop, review to be done soon) Note: You can use any colour of your own preference, but I would suggest orangey pink to pinkish red if you are going for the Korean look,



Before you put on your make-up...
Make sure that you have already thoroughly cleansed your face and carried out your daily skincare routine. If not, at least be sure to put on your toner and moisturiser AFTER cleansing.
The skincare products I use in my routine make my face a little glowy even before putting on any make-up, so the CC cream acts like a finisher for me in terms of brightening my face complexion and slightly reducing any redness or blemishes.



So now let's get started!
You can scroll down to watch my video instead, or read the steps written here.




Step 1: 
After applying your usual toner, moisturiser and whatever extra goody products you may have, let them set in for about 5 to 10 minutes. (If you have the time then 15 minutes). This is to let your skin absorb whatever they need to first before any make-up "erases" them off.
When that is done, start by using the Aqua CC starter - apply it all over your face and neck. You don't need to squeeze out too much of an amount, just a little 1 - 1.5cm size of amount is good enough.
Note: You can use it as a finisher (after your usual skincare routine) without the CC cream if you think that it is sufficient for your look or complexion.  (Highly recommended to use this make-up base before the CC cream as it keeps your face hydrated and moisturised.)



Step 2:
Apply CC cream all over your face and neck, make sure to blend them properly and evenly. When you're done, dab some cream on the contours of your eyes, near your bottom eyelids as well as on your top eyelids. (See video for clearer reference)
This helps to brighten up your eyes and make them look more refreshed.  (The CC cream acts as an eye concealer for me, but you can top it off with a concealer if you think that your dark circles need further coverage) 
While you're still at this step, dab some CC cream around your lips and its corners as well.  (You will find out why later on in Step 4)



Step 3:
Draw your eyebrows! If your eyebrows are perfectly thick and flawless, you can skip this step. For people (like myself) who needs to darken your eyebrows, you can do it the way you like. (Thumbs-up for straight eyebrows because it makes you look more like a Korean!)
Beginners can look for a better explanation online on how to draw perfect eyebrows - dont worry, everything starts out weird, but practice makes perfect, right!



Step 4:
The very last step is applying your lipstick. You can apply a thin layer of lip balm before your lipstick (it is good as it keeps your lips moisturised)
Dab/stain your lipstick onto the inner parts of your lips at the center (It need not be a thick layer - you can make necessary additions if required later on) 
So now, use your fingers and spread out the "stain" across your lips. (You can smudge them by closing your lips and rubbing them together slowly)
Remember in step 2? I said to dab some CC cream around your lips... This is to enhance the colour of your lipstick and make them look less fuller and look gradient. (Just like Koreans!!!) 
After which, finish up by dabbing a little bit of CC cream at the corners of your mouth and under your bottom lip. This helps to make your lips look more defined and thinner. You can replace this step with a concealer. You can dab a little bit of CC cream or concealer around areas you want your lips to look more gradient or defined.


NOTE:
YOU CANNOT MISS THIS STEP OUT. (Unless you are saying that you are allergic to lipsticks, or simply hate it to the core... But I guess it's fine if you have a naturally beautiful & pinkish lips)

Why? Of course, it's a very trendy style of Korean's make-up these days. But it also adds colour & "life" to your face. 
Trust me, girls look beautiful with lipstick. You can choose a lighter shade for a simple & gentle look, a darker one for a bolder look. Whatever it is, lipsticks are a must-have in every girl's bag, home, dressing table. Even pocket. Even if you don't put on make-up, at least put on a lipstick - you'll see how different & lively you look! 




Now... If you are still unclear, simply click "play" on my video below: (Though, it is not a very detailed tutorial with regards to explanations.)



With that, I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and learnt something useful!

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel here for more updates & don't forget to like my video!


Product Reviews: FACE it Aqua CC Starter from The Face Shop FACE it Aura CC Cream from The Face Shop

 Others to be updated soon, you can follow this blog for more updates if you are keen.

Related Posts to Cosmetics: The Face Shop FACE it Aqua CC Starter Review The Face Shop FACE it Aura CC Cream Review Plaza Singapura SaSa Cosmetics SG - Customer Service