Harrods and Cath Kidston E-Mooks

Lovely Harrods canvas bag that comes free with the e-mook at $22.40 at Kinokuniya

Sweet feminine Cath Kidston fabric totes which come free with the e-mook at $34.10 found in Kinokuniya

Review : Beauty Credit Isoflavon Essential Cotton Mask

Benefits :
- Isoflavones, a type of antioxidant polyphenol found in beans

- Reduces free radicals, slows skin degeneration and aging
- Has cancer-preventative properties
- 100% cotton hypoallergenic mask

I have used up the 3 sheets for the past 1.5 weeks and it has certainly provide some needed hydration to my skin. However, do note that it does contain alcohol and fragrance which may not be welcomed for some people.
Fragrance in skincare products are actually quite unnecessary but I do know of some beauty bloggers who loved fragranced products in their skincare.

There is a slight scent but nothing too overpowering. The 100% cotton sheet mask is thick and comfortableIt fits perfectly on my face. However, after each mask treatment, my face does feel sticky to the touch and I usually cleanse it with water.
Skin feels soft and supple thereafter.

Review : The Body Shop Camomile Gentle Eye Makeup Remover

Product Description
Gently cleanse and dissolve your eye makeup, as well as condition your lashes, with our best-selling mild lotion.


■Organic Community Trade camomile water, known for its calming benefits, cools and soothes skin.
■Algae extract is rich in minerals that help moisturize and revitalize skin.
■A gentle cleansing formula containing glycerin, an effective moisturizer, cleans skin and eye lashes without over-drying.

I first used this many years ago but it did not leave a lasting impression on me then. A few months back, I bought one from a friend after she got some drastic results with this remover. She has a number of them kept in stock and because it made her lashes drop, she decided to sell it to me.

The first 2 times I used it, it was exactly as what my friend said. It made my eyelashes drop too. I was stunned. I do not remember having this reaction before. Did my lashes become weaker or has the formulation change? Camomile is supposed to be gentle, isn't it?
Usually, my lashes came off when I was trying to cleanse my mascara on the lashes so now I am using it to cleanse away my concealer only. It felt safe and it made me happier, to know that at least I am saving my lashes. LOL

It actually looks and feel gentle on the eyes though I do not really fancy anything with oil in it.
It looks like a clear liquid but once applied on the undereyes area, it left an oily residue on it.
It does not remove waterproof mascara and with normal mascara, it made my lashes came off.

If you just need something to remove the concealer or eye colour, then you can try this out but I believe there are better products out there which can work in removing all kinds of eye make-up.

Some people love this anyway, scoring 9.2/10 on Total Beauty yet 2.7/5 on Makeupalley

Key Ingredient :
Organic camomile water - Soothes the skin. Is known for its calming benefits

Ingredients :
Water, Cyclomethicone, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Coco-Glucoside, Carbomer, Algae Extract, Benzyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Dimethicone, Disodium EDTA, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Methylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Propylparaben.

Source : The Body Shop

Review : H20+ face oasis hydrating treatment

Product Description
A moisture-intensive gel that hydrates the skin while firming and diminishing the appearance of fine lines.
A penetrating liposome delivery system and Sea Mineral Complex™ help attract, transport and distribute moisture equivalent to eight glasses of water. Marine extracts of wakame, sea lettuce, and sea fennel, provide vitamins A, C, E and Provitamin B nourish and protect the skin.

I have been wanting to try this brand for the longest time but has only recently ventured into it this March.
I have tried a number of their products from then till now and have mixed feelings about it. Most failed miserably on my skin until this hydrating treatment product.
Then again, I got into this brand mainly for this moisturiser and I am glad that it definitely lives up to its reputation.

Benefits :
- Provides immediate, oil-free hydration
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines
- Revitalizes dull, dehydrated skin

I have been using this moisturiser  for several months on a daily basis during the day. It comes in a tub and its low on its hygiene factor, considering if you dip your fingers into the tub every morning.
What I did is to wash my hands before and after use to reduce risk of irritation due to baterial infection. There are others who would spent on a spatula, so the choice is yours.

I am always game to use a water-based moisturiser, particular because of my combination skin with surface dehydration. Oil is a no-no for me.
There was a slight marine scent and the texture is very gel-like, very unlike my usual biotherm moisturiser which is light and refreshing.
Its definitely very jelly-like gel as you can see its movement when you tried to shake the tub.

Once applied, it took some time for it to get absorbed into my skin. Not a long time but the face does get abit sticky. Very slight stickness but nothing major.
Its refreshing and cooling on the skin.
My skin definitely feels and looks much better thereafter. Hydrated and bouncy.

It scored an impressive 4.5/5 on Makeupalley too. The best thing is that its oil-free. Awesome.

I bought this 50ml tub at $62.10 at Isetan.

Main Ingredients :
Sea Mineral Complex™, Sea Fennel, Lavender, Vitamin C, Wakame, Vitamin A, Sea Lettuce, Provitamin B

Ingredients :
Water (Aqua), Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Glycereth 7, Glycosaminoglycans, Dimethicone, PEG 12 Dimethicone, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Phospholipids, Panthenol, Fragrance (Parfum) (Parfum), Trisodium EDTA, Zinc PCA, Benzophenone 4, Linalool, Sea Salt (Maris Sal), Undaria Pinnatifida Extract, Ulva Lactuca Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Blue 1 (CI 42090) (CI 42090), Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Crithmum Maritimum (Crithmum Maritimum Extract), Algae (Seaweed) Extract, Retinyl Palmitate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate

Source : H20 Plus

Shampoo Myths Busted

"You need lather to know it's really working."

MYTH The more foam a shampoo produces, the cleaner your hair's getting, right? Not exactly. Foaming occurs when surfactant molecules in the shampoo mix with air and create tons of tiny bubbles. Ideally, your head should have only enough lather to lubricate the hair and scalp, so a quarter-size blob of shampoo is usually enough to for a good hair wash.

"You should use a clarifying formula to get rid of buildup."

PARTLY FACT Unless you're using heavy-duty hair products, like pomade, mousse, or gel, regular shampooing prevents styling-product residue from collecting on your hair. If you do need a clarifier, don't use it more than once a week. These detergent-heavy cleansers, which do such a great job of removing buildup, will also do a great job of giving you damaged hair.

"Washing every day can be bad for your hair."

MOSTLY MYTH "Daily washing is safe and healthy," says Mort Westman, the cosmetics chemist. If you have oily hair, it's fine to suds up every day--but even oily types should use a gentle formula (translation: one with moisturizing ingredients, like silicones, shea butter, or panthenol). People with coarse or dry hair might want to be more conservative and wash every other day, says L'Oréal's Youssef. No matter what kind of hair you have, as long as you stay away from harsh formulas that strip natural oils and treat your strands with conditioner, regular shampooing won't do any harm.

"For best results, follow with a hair conditioner."

FACT Chemists can pack only so many ingredients into each bottle. And shampoo chemicals can't clean properly and deposit enough conditioner to moisturize your locks. Using a separate conditioner will coat strands with ingredients that hydrate and protect. BTW: If your hair's super-oily, apply the thick stuff only from the ears to the ends.

"After a while, your hair gets used to your shampoo. That's why you need to switch to a new brand occasionally."

MYTH Let cosmetics chemist Westman set the record straight: "Hair is dead, period. So it can't 'get used to' anything. It's just your perception of how your hair responds to a new formula."

I am surprised by this last  relevation though I always switch products so I cannot comment on this. However I believe hair conditions change all the time due to hair treatment, chemical processing and the weather so we may still need different products after some time.

Source : WomenHealthMag

Haircuts For Different Face Shape

Now you look up to these idols and get some tips from their trendy hairstyles.

Oval

All hair styles look great on you because your face is in perfect proportion. Classic haircuts look best on oval faces.
Celebrities : Katie Holmes and Jessica Alba

Square

Be careful not to accent your strong, angular jaw. You need some texture on the ends of your hair to soften your jawline by releasing your curls or adding long choppy layers.
Celebrities :  Angelina Jolie and Demi Moore.

Round

You obviously want your face to look less broad. Hair that's cut just below the chin with soft layers will make your face appear slimmer.
Celebrities : Cameron Diaz, Kristen Dunst and Michelle Williams

Heart

You need to draw attention to your eyes with side-swept bangs that distract from a pointy chin. I also suggest a strong part and hair that is cut at the jawline.
Celebrity  : Paris Hilton

Long

Take care to avoid hair that drags your face down. Volume is an absolute requirement even if you wear your hair straight. Hair must always have fullness at the sides with some lift or long layers. Short to medium lengths work best.
Celebrity : Gwyneth Paltrow

Read more from Instyle

Source : Ivillage

10 Tips For Healthy Veins

The trick is to eat the right things on a daily basis to improve your circulation and keep your vein walls strong and healthy.

1. Eat a lot of colorful fruit – add berries to your cereal or yoghurt in the morning – Foods like blueberries and raspberries are full of bioflavonoids – natural compounds that work with Vitamin C to help strengthen your blood vessels.

The darker the color the more bioflavonoids they contain. There are two bioflavonoids important for vein health – rutin and quercitin which are found in all citrus fruits, apricots, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, rose hips, and buckwheat.

2. Don’t peel your citrus fruit too carefully – the white bits on citrus fruits are the white membranes of citrus fruit like oranges clementines, tangerines and grapefruit which are also a rich source of bioflavonoids
3. Increase your vitamin C intake – eating a large amount of fruits containing bioflavonoids also delivers high quantities of vitamin C and the two together act to build up and restore tissue, stengthening vein valves and vein walls. Other sources are leafy green vegetables and salad leaves. If you take a supplement combine a high strength vitamin C supplement with bioflavon

4. Avoid constipation with a high fiber diet – lack of regularity makes all vein problems worse because of the added pressure it puts on the vascular system. Add bran to your cereal or buy natural unprocessed muesli, eat nuts and dried fruit as a snack, consume as much fresh fruit and vegetables as you can, use pulses and legumes in soups and stews.

5. Take 120 milligrams of gingko biloba – a daily dose of ginkgo biloba helps to strengthen the tissues that make up your vein walls and increases blood flow around the body.

6. Up your level of Vitamin A (beta carotene) which is important for skin healing and strength – carrots are the best known source but any orange colored fruit and vegetables like mangoes or sweet potatoes are high in beta carotene.

7. Boost B complex vitamins – take a tablespoon of brewer’s yeast or nutritional yeast daily. The eight individual B vitamins in the B complex group are vital for strengthening tissue and improving muscle tone which helps to heal damaged blood vessels, stem leaks and stop further problems arising. Brewer’s yeast is an inactive form of the yeast used in brewing and is full of natural B complex vitamins.
B vitamins are found in all whole foods and whole grains but are very low or completely absent in processed carbohydrates like white flour or sugar. B vitamins in meat or meat products and turkey and fresh tuna are good sources. Other food sources for B vitamins are whole potatoes, bananas, lentils, molasses and chile peppers.

8. Take one tablespoon of lecithin granules daily – lecithin or vitamin F is a wonderful natural substance that improves vascular health by breaking down fatty deposits in the blood allowing the blood to flow freely. It also has a key role to play in restoring and repairing tissue damage. Lecithin is present naturally in foods such as: cabbage, cauliflower, soy beans, split peas, organic meat, seeds, nuts and eggs.

9. Build up your vitamin E supplies – vitamin E acts as an antioxidant protecting vitamins A and C and other important substances in the body so it plays a key role in the health of your vascular system. It can be found in vegetable oils, wheatgerm, hazelnuts and avocados.

10. Make sure you get enough zinc – you may be deficient in zinc because your body may not be metabolizing enough of the zinc you consume in your diet. Low absorption of zinc is a common problem – the body is only able to absorb around 20% of the zinc made available to it through diet. Zinc is vital for healthy connective tissues including capillary walls and vein valves as it plays a big role in collagen formation.

The best sources of zinc are proteins like meat and shellfish. Other sources include: wholegrains and cereals, pumpkin seeds, muesli, sesame seeds and tahini paste, yoghurt and wholemeal bread.

Source : Simply Anitaging

Giveaway Winner

Finally its time to announce the winner for my first Korean giveaway.
And the winner is

Name : Everlyn
Email : rbychiang@gmail.com

Her asprin mask will be a good DIY treat for everyone to try.

Hi Everlyn,
I will get in touch with you shortly.
 
Thanks to everyone who joined my giveaway.

Review : Biotherm Biosource Dermo-Soothing Lotion in a Mist

Product Description
Sensitive skin, while beautiful and delicate, is often fragile. That's why Biotherm developed a gentle lotion in a mist to relieve 5 symptoms of skin sensitivity (flare-ups, redness, tightness, tingling and flaking), through a combination of phyto-omegas 3 and 6, natural dermo-balancing ingredients, and the equivalent of 5,000 liters of thermal spa water concentrated in an ultra-moisturizing mist.

Result : Skin is supple and soft, soothed and incredibly comfortable

I first came across this product on Strawberrynet while it was having a promotion. I do not remember ever seeing this product over Biotherm counter or anywhere else. I would remember if I do see it, because I am quite a fan of facial mists recently. And since I am also a fan of Biotherm products, this is definitely something I would get.

Touted to be 100% alcohol free, 100% colorant free, 100% perfume free, allergy tested and with a mild PH, it seems set to be the perfect product for those with sensitive skin.
It is supposed to work as a mild spray to soothe skin immediately due to its Pure Thermal Plankton (available in all Biotherm products).
It can helps to protect skin against environmental impacts, climatic changes and hormonal cycles, leaving  skin calm, refreshed & protected

After using up my Avene spray , I was on the lookout for another soothing spray and this lotion mist spray from Biotherm came in just in time. I cannot remember how much I paid for it and at 125ml, its not convenient for me to bring it out so I usually used it at home.

I tried using it as a toner, spray it in a fine mist and massage in my moisturiser. It works alright though I do not see any significant differences with or without using this product.
Then whenever I encountered redness on my skin, I tried to use it to soothe my redness but without much success.
The water is very comfortable on my skin, making me feel soothed and rested but it does not minimize the redness on my skin at all. Its just a superficial soothing feeling on the upper layer of my skin.

I do have good vibes of this product because of its claims to be able to reduce flare-ups, redness, tightness, tingling and flaking with its thermal spa water and other ingredients but after using it for over 4 months, I am greatly disappointed with it. It did nothing as what its supposed to do.

I have flakiness on my skin every now and then but again, this soothing lotion does nothing to it, even though I do spray lots on my skin.
I have already used up 3/4 of the bottle and I believe after this, I would not be getting it anymore.

Source : Biotherm

Natural Treatment for Under-Eye Circles

Dark Circles

Learn what causes under-eye circles and how to treat them naturally for a glowing, healthy complexion.

Under-eye circles occur due to the very thin, crepey skin under the eyes not being able to effectively mask the blood that has pooled under the eyes. The result are those puffy, dark circles that are difficult to get rid of and detrimental to the complexion. Under-eye circles are often a circulatory issue, resulting from lack of sleep, poor nutrition, stress and anxiety, and the effects of dehydration and side effects of medications and alcoholic beverages.

Technically speaking, when you have bags under your eyes it's your body's way of telling you that you need to rejuvenate your skin with nutrients, relaxation, and water to get that blood flowing and get back that well-rested look.

Methods :
(1) Lemon juice, tomato juice, turmeric powder and gram flour
Step 1 : Simply combine a teaspoon of tomato juice with a half teaspoon of lemon juice and toss in a pinch of each of the turmeric powder and gram flour (found in the baking aisle of most grocery stores).
Step 2 : Mix and apply to your under-eye circles and leave on for 10 minutes.
How : The acids and vitamins in the juices work to break down the circles and the powders work to aid in circulation and smooth out the skin.

(2) Cool teabags
Apply cool teabags to the eyes for a half hour, or use a mixture of lemon juice and potato juice
How : The acids in the juices break down the blood pooled that creates the circles, and the Vitamins A, D, and B in the potato juice helps plump the skin and rejuvenate it.
Teabags are anti-inflammatory, which gets the circulation going.

(3) Drink more water to promote circulation and cell regeneration.

(4) Drink tomato juice with mint leaves, a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of lemon juice can promote circulation and blood flow all around, which is great for vein health and for ridding your eyes of those bags.


Wrinkle Treatment

(1) Rub almond oil under the eyes before bed, massaging gently. Make sure you get a full nights' rest and you'll wake up with tighter, brighter skin
How : Skin absorbs the healthy almond oil full of Omega-3s and Vitamin E which promotes collagen growth and regeneration of skin cells to plump the skin and leave it healthier.

Source : Associated Content

Review : Missha Clearing Gel Eye Patch

Product Description

Release stress of eye area. Containing Deep Sea Water 10% and Deep Sea Collagen. This eye total care gel mask patch gives firming and brightening effect while providing moisture and nutrients who has a trouble with dark-colored and saggy eye area by aging.

I bought 5 pieces of this from Korea at quite an affordable price. As what the product description says, its supposed to give firming and brightening effect and provide moisture too.

Each pair of hydrogel is packaged in a plastic tray. Its only very slightly moist and when layered on the undereye area, there was a slight itchiness but it soon go away after a short while.

There was no visible firming effect but my eyes did look slightly brighter though only temporarily.

I do not feel that its hydrated though.

Ingredients :

Water, Glycerin, Ceratonia Siliqua Gum, Trehalose, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan), Sodium Hyaluronate,

Beta-Glucan, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Phenoxyethanol,
Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Potassium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Castanea Sativa (Chestnut) Shell Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

Source : Missha

Review : Garnier Fructis Style Brilliantine Shine Glossing Spray

Product Description
Garnier Fructis Style Brilliantine Shine Glossing Spray, with fruit micro-waxes, is a non-greasy shine spray that locks in luster for soft, manageable hair with long-lasting, glossy shine.

Turn on the shine to brilliantly styled hair! Garnier Fructis Style Brilliantine Shine, with fruit micro-waxes, seals shine and moisture into the hair for long-lasting, in-control style with lustrous sheen.

I first came across this product in Total Beauty and was won over by the rave reviews. I finally decided to get this from drugstore.com via Vpost.
It comes in only 1 size at 89ml, convenient and handy to bring it for travels. However, it depleted very fast especially when I used it on a daily basis, after using my leave-on conditioner. This spray acts as an enhancer to make my hair look healthy by giving it a soft subtle shine.

It has a nice fruity scent and is colourless in a clear plastic bottle.
It does not weigh the hair down or make it greasy but has a light hold on my curls and defined them in a light natural way, without being heavy or stiff.
At just USD$3.99, its pretty much affordable but too bad that its not available in Singapore and I just had to order it from USA.

On the downside, it did not help to make my damaged ends look more moisturising or defrizz them.
Just a note that it contains alcohol denat which may cause drying if used long term.

How to use: Hold bottle 6-8 inches from head and spray sparingly. For finer hair, spray product into hands, then gently smooth hands over hair.

Ingredients :
Alcohol Denat. , Cyclopentasiloxane , Isopropyl Myristate , C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate , Parfum Fragrance , Linalool , Limonene , Amyl Cinnamal , Citral , PEG-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides , Propylene Glycol , Aqua Water , Citrus Limonum Lemon Extract

Source : Garnier

Review : Bio-essence Bio Multi-Effect BB Cream SPF25/PA++

Benefits
• Smooth velvety texture to provide a natural and flawless finishing
• Refines pores and whitens skin
• Provides long lasting hydration to prevent skin dryness and regulates oil secretion
• Nourishes skin with essential nutrients; mineral elements to revitalize skin
• Improves skin texture for smoother, softer, refined and fairer skin
• Protects skin from harmful UV rays
 
I received a sachet of this BB cream from a good friend who just joined as a Bioessence member.
It was given to her as a welcome gift so she passed one to me, as she got 2 sachets.

Touted as a 8in1, it acts as a concealer, sunblock, skin repair, moisturizer, nourishment, oil control, skin whitening and reduces wrinkles and lines.

I have to admit that I only manage to use 2 times before it depleted. The first time, I squeezed out too much as I was not expecting it to be so fluid and more came out than necessary.
Compared to the Korean BB creams I have used before, this was more fluid but provides a heavier coverage.

Although the shade was perfect for me, but I can still see the obvious layer on my face, almost like a liquid foundation. I have more redness to conceal than blemishes as I have sensitive skin. This BB cream was able to minimize the redness and blemishes much better than other BB creams I have used before.
However, I found the texture abit too greasy for my skin.

Review : Comodynes Make-up Remover Sheets (with Oats)

Product Description
Perfect for dry and sensitive skin types. Thanks to the soothing and nourishing properties of Oats, this formula is perfect for dry and sensitive skin types. These facial cleansing towelettes have the following effects in a single swipe: removes make-up, tones,& moisturizes

Benefits :
- Removes Makeup
- Tones Skin
- Moisturizing
- For Dry/Sensitive Skin Types
- Easy to Use

I used to use Watsons make-up remover sheets which was a steal at $1.95 for 10pieces. It was cheap, good and handy to bring around for my thrice-weekly gym sessions during my lunch hour.
However, Watsons is no longer carrying it anymore.

A good friend of mine then recommended this to me, $8.90 for 20sheets at Sasa. Definitely not that cheap, if compared with my previous one.
There are 3 different forumulaes available, namely for dry and sensitive skin, oily and combination skin and normal skin.
My skin falls into the catagory of between combination and surface dehydration skin so I decided to pick up the Oats version which is suitable for dry and sensitive skin.

Made of 100% natural viscose, the towelettes are also hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested. Each sheet is also pretty big and thick to cleanse away the whole gunk from the face hence I like to bring it along for my trips as its convenient. I can also reseal the package after each use.

The idea of being able to reseal back seem ingenious and user-friendly but I tend to pull out more than necessary ie. 2 sheets at one go so I ended up stuffing back the unused one back, which maybe a bit messy.
I believe the reseal may not be sticky after some time though I have not met with this problem yet, thankfully.
I am embarrased to say that I have torn the packaging in a rush and its now kept in a ziplock bag to prevent it from being dried-out.

In terms of their claims in being able to tone and moisturise, I hardly think that it can replace the use of a toner and moisturiser as it leaves a sticky film after each use which I would follow up with my cleanser, toner and moisturiser.
I would say its good on its own, as a make-up remover sheet but not anything more than that

It scored 4.1 on Makeupalley

Ingredients :
Aqua (water), Butylene Glycol, Trideceth 9/PEG-5 Octanoate, Glycerin, Avena Sativa (Oat) (oats extract), Sodium Coceth Sulfate, Sodium Coceth Sulfate/PEG-40 Glyceryl Cocoate, PPG 20 Methyl Glucose Ether, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Methylparaben, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Sorbic Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile (Phenoxyethanol), Imidazolidinyl Urea, Trisodium EDTA, Perfume (fragrance), Potassium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate


Source : Comodynes

Review : Lime Secret Shine Base #85 Lime Pearl Peach & #75 Lime Pearl Gold

I first came to know about these make-up bases from a friend who gave me a complimentary sample of Lime Peach Gold which had me falling in love with it.

Thereafter I asked a friend to get it for me when I heard she was going to Korea on a business trip but she bought the Lime Pearl Peach instead as the Peach Gold was not available.

#85 Lime Pearl Peach

Product Description

Oil-free type light pearl make-up base that expresses a clearer and splendid skin tone with double-reflecting pearls that sparkle according to the angle of light.

It softens the skin texture with the sleek velvet touch application.

I owned the full sized for this product which I believe would take me ages to finish it as I just need a small amount of it for my face.
As the name implies, its falls within the pearl peach colour, more to the reflecting pearly colour than anything thing else.

There is a very subtle shimmer when applied on the face. Since I have combination skin, I did not want to apply on the whole face, but only on non T-zone areas where its less prone to being shiny and oily.

So I would usually apply Smashbox Primer on my T-zone and this Pearl Peach on my cheeks. Alternatively, I would also apply Smashbox Primer  on the whole face, followed by Pearl Peach on the cheeks.

I actually prefer the Lime Pearl Gold than this Pearl Peach as its almost invisible on my skin. While it matches my skin tone very well and gave a very light subtle shimmer but I do found it too mild and light to be useful. Overall, it does give a subtle radiant glow to dull skin.

If you have dull and greyish skin, I believe, this may helps abit but do not expect fantastic results.

The colour reminds me of highlighter, so you can also used it as a spot highlighter on the areas where it reflects light ie. cheekbones.

#75 Lime Pearl Gold

Product DescriptionThis oil-free, lightweight makeup base with dual-reflective pearl creates a clear, radiant skin tone with an enhanced glow.

Oooh. I love this very much. I fell in love with the sample sachet instantly, the first time I used it. I was wary initially, because of the colour. I thought it may be dreadful on my fair skin tone since its in gold colour.
However, I was proven wrong when I applied on my face. It gives such a lovely and radiant glow on my skin. I used it mainly on my cheeks and I love how it gave a soft subtle glow in a natural way.
I was disappointed when my friend was not able to get it in Korea and I am still hoping someday, I can get my hands on the full retail size.

Source : Skin Food

Review : Biotherm Aquasource Hydra-Mineral Lotion Purifying Water

Image Source : Sasa

Product Description
Enriched with a 70-mineral complex and purifying copper. It cleanses and clarifies without aggressing skin. After use, skin is instantly refined, cleansed and purified without clogged pores. It also controls sebum secretion to correct unwanted shine. From 7 days, it radiates with a healthy glow.

Recommended for oily and acne skin / combination skin, this toner contains copper to control sebum and minimize shine-prone skin.
I bought the cleanser, toner and moisturiser as a package deal during last Xmas. The cleanser was quite a major disappointment as it left my skin taut. I have yet to review it as I am still monitoring the situation. The moisturiser was a delightful surprise though. With this toner, I was not expecting much miracles since I do not really see any remarkable toners in all those products I hae tried before.

Hence, I was pleasantly surprised that it did control my sebum production and reduce my shiny T-zone area. I do not have a major concern with oiliness but I do have a shiny-prone T-zone area which I usually blot once or twice a day.
After starting on this toner, I have since reduce my blotting to once or none per day which is a very nice touch. It also meant that my make-up stayed longer too.
The toner has an alcohol scent to it, which I do not quite like. Otherwise, I think its a toner which perhaps some ladies with shine-prone skin may like to try out.

Do note alcohol denat as the 2nd ingredient. You can read more about the different types of alcohol here.

Main ingredients :
70-Mineral Complex, Purifying Copper, Salicylic Acid, PTP

DIY Eye Massage

5 tips from Ms Teri Tay, Education Manager for Dermalogica, to a DIY eye massage:

1) Always have an eye cream or eye masque that gives you a good glide to start off the massage.
But if you're on the go and have no access to a ready eye cream, you can always apply eye pressure. Point massage can be done, anytime, anywhere.

2) Massage all around the upper and lower eyelid area in slow, circular movements, without dragging the skin. Use outside-in or inside-out movements to stimulate eye muscles, which are circular.

3) Pressure points are actually sore areas around the eye socket which can be easily found. Move along your socket bone and exert slight pressure with your ring finger.

When you reach a spot that feels sore, hold for a count of three, release the pressure and move on to the next spot.

Repeat for a few minutes, several times a day to ease the soreness. The more tired your eyes are, the more soreness you will feel.

4) Regularly exercise the eye muscles by blinking. Try blinking 100 times in a minute.

5) Always end a DIY eye massage with a hot masque or gel pack if you suffer from dark eye rings, and end with a cold pack if your eyes are puffy.

Source : Diva

Review : Beauty Credit Red Ginseng Oriental Herb Cotton Mask

Product Description
Red ginseng extracts deliver resilience and radiance to the skin while the mask sheet made of cotton, which has excellent permeability and moisturization, carries the nutrients deep into the skin and allows your skin to breathe.

- Trusted Asian ingredient with natural antioxidants that reduces free radicals
- Cleanses, moisturises and protects your skin
- Promotes better blood circulation
- 100% cotton hypoallergenic mask

I only bought 1 sheet to try it out.
With a slight whiff of ginseng scent mixed with some oriental herbs, it gives the mask an overall herbal scent. As with all Beauty Credit masks, the material is made of 100% cotton, thick enough to be soaked in essence and layered on the face.
The cut-out area is just alright for my face,with a slightly larger nose flap. I did not really see any obvious radiance or glow to my face. And I also do feel that the hydrating ability is just not enough for those with  dehydrated skin.

Source : Beauty Credit

Review : Da Chang Jin Yellow Soil Mud Mask Pack

I received several of these masks when I signed up packages at Rustic Nirvana, a massage parlour. According to their manager, these masks are pretty expensive but not much information was provided at the back as its all in Korean language.

The name above is a direct transalation of the Chinese name which I hope its correct. Translating the Chinese name of the mask, I presume its for deep cleansing and for regulating sebum production.
The sheet mask is light brown in colour and the material is thick enough to have just enough essence without it being dripping wet. It does not smell nice though.
I used this once a week recently for 2 weeks and I could feel the immediate difference to my face, being soft and smooth. It is not a hydrating mask as I do not feel any hydrating benefits.

But what irritates me is that, it leave a brownish layer on the face, after each mask treatment. Actually on the back of the mask packaging, its recommended to cleanse and tone the skin after removing the mask but I was not expecting it to be that serious, in leaving a brownish layer on the face.
Its not obvious on the face but I could see the gunk when I cleanse it with a cotton pad.

I really like how my skin feels - soft and smooth. I cannot tell the immediate difference to my sebum production as I usually use it after my bath when my skin is clean.
My T-zone is still oily the next day, so I would say, that it did not make much improvement in this aspect.

Review : Mandom Beauty Cleansing Express Moist

Product Description
- Water-based
- Suitable for dry skin
- No alcohol, coloring, or oil
- Very light, fresh fragrance
- Removes makeup (even waterproof mascara) quickly and effectively
- Tones skin while removing makeup
- Facial wash is unnecessary after makeup is removed

I picked this up while window-shopping in Junction 8 Watsons, meaning I did not have any intention to get anything but was just shopping with my mum.
This appeals to me because its water-based. Touted as no alcohol, colouring and oil, it further entices me to get it. And at $3.95 for 50ml with Made in Japan tag, its just waiting for me to purchase it. Afterall, if its not suitable, its just $3.95 down the drain.
 
I have not been using Madom Beauty products for a very long time. I think I used their cleansing products when I was a teenager and after that, nothing seems fantastic from their line, until this cleansing lotion.
It has received rave reviews from everyone who have used it and believe me, I am joining them right this minute.
 
In Junction 8 Watsons, I only chanced upon the Moist version. I may have overlooked the rest though.
This cleansing lotion is touted as a 3-in-1 lotion, meaning you can remove make-up, cleanse and moisturise with just this lotion. You don't even need another cleanser or moisturiser after you use this.
Its 100% oil free, fragrance free, colouring free, paraben free and alcohol free.
 
Well, I usually do not really follow through and I use it as just a pure cleansing lotion. Thereafter, I followed up with my regular cleanser. As a cleansing lotion, it works pretty well. It feels and looks like water. So basically, this Made in Japan is really good. No oily residue, no yucky smell, just a lotion which looks like clear lotion as you clear up the make-up junk from your face.

Its gentle and mild, yet is able to cleanse my face make-up with just 2 cotton pads. I don't use it around the eyes, so I cannot comment on the waterproof mascara. I still prefer a separate eye make-up remover for that. I would think that its good for those with sensitive skin as well, since there are lesser irritants in this, as compared with others.
Some beauty bloggers have commented that its difficult to remove waterproof make-up. I cannot comment on that but you can try to see if it works for you though.

It retails for $16.90 for 300ml at Watsons.

Ingredients :

Review : Etude House Good-bye Dark Circle Eye Patch

Product Description
Formulated with slim tea complex and broccoli, hydro-gel eye patch supplies care to worrisome dark circles and bags for youthful looking eyes.

I bought 3 pairs and after using it on 3 consecutive days, I do find it useless on me.
A pair of cresent moon hydro-gel patches come packaged in a plastic tray. Its not wet but just a slight cold slimy feeling. It gives a refreshing feeling and feels slightly itchy for the intial few minutes before it goes away.
I removed it after 30minutes but see no visible improvement to my undereye area.

Active Ingredients :
Broccoli, Slim tea complex ( mate tea, green coffee )

Review : Biotherm Cellular Detoxifying Hydro-Clarifying Cleanser

Product Description
Luxuriously foamy texture, enriched with polymorphous micro-beads, effectively cleanses the face and removes make-up. Also helps to gently remove melanin-charged dead cells from skin's surface to reveal a more radiant complexion.

I am actually quite averse to using foam cleanser as it usually dries up my skin, leaving a very tight feeling behind. However, I had good fun with their previous cleanser which made me more interested to try this out.
I only had a sachet, complimentary from Biotherm which provided me for about 5 usages.

I have not been reviewing cleansers since February this year as I try to stick to my regular one, because the bad ones always gave me sensitive red skin. I am still in between use with a cleansing soap highly recommended by a colleague's wife but has stopped using it temporarily because of my skin.
I will review it once I am back to using it again.

It has a light floral fragrance and lathers very well but thats expected since its touted as a foam cleanser. Just a bit goes a long way as it produces much foam. My first usage left a tight feeling on my hands and face which made me dislike it immediately. I even thought of throwing it away. Note that I do not review products which I only used once (other than sheet masks) as its would be an unfair review, in my opinion.

Subsequent uses change my mind though there is still a dry tight feeling after the usage but it left my face wonderfully smooth and almost radiant. The cleanser has small gritty beads in it for exfoliating properties.
I cannot comment on its make-up removing effectiveness as I use it as night cleanser after using my make-up remover.

Image Source : Sasa

Review : Toni & Guy Rapid Response Leave-In Conditioner

Product Description
Non-rinse formula that acts as an instant response to frizziness and damage caused by heat and other external factors. Restores hair in need of a rescue to help replace moisture loss and natural lustre. Also makes a highly effective styling product to retain movement and enhance the definition of naturally curly and wavy hair.
This leave-in conditioning gel targets dry, frizzy and damaged hair. Helps restore hydration, protect against split ends and leaves hair smooth.

Picked this up during my JB trip in early March this year. Its also available in Singapore for about $8.95 but I got the sweet deal in JB as a package. My friend had commented on its not so nice scent but I still ignored it and bought it anyway.
The scent of this product is similar to its shampoo and conditioner but unlike them, this stayed on the hair because its a leave-in serum. I actually quite dislike the smell but I bought it because I wanted to try its effectiveness.

It received quite a bad review from 1 user in Makeupalley with a score of 2.0
Thankfully, mine is just a 75ml bottle and I managed to use it up within 2 months.
White in colour, the texture is actually quite thick and you have to squeeze the bottle to get the contents out.
I hardly find this product impressive. Its supposed to act as an instant moisturising formula to protect against frizziness and split ends but well, I don't think it improve the condition of my hair at all.
With or without this product, my hair is still the same, so I think I can do without this product.
Plus the yucky smell, well, its just not for my hair.

Key ingredients : VP/VA, copolymer, amodimethicone and cyclopentasiloxane

Source : Toni&Guy

Review : 100% Pure Organic Dark Chocolate Mocha Body Scrub

Product Description
Decadent Belgian dark chocolate softens and is loaded with anti-aging antioxidants. Organic Hawaiian Kona coffee beans awaken, increase circulation and are stimulating exfoliates that buff away bumps and flakes for smooth, gorgeous, radiant skin. Age defying organic Grapeseed and Black Currant oils moisturize and restore. High concentrations of Vitamins C & E to protect and heal. A delicious way to nourish and pamper your skin!

As I promised in my earlier post on 100% Pure body wash, here's the scrub review. I am so glad to stumble upon 100% Pure products. Other than its 100% Natural, 100% Vegan and Gluten free, its also filled with yummy goodness. Who can ever reject such a delicious chocolate mocha scrub, especially if you are a chocolate lover like me? I know I definitely can't.
Even when I was reading its product label, I know I just want this scrub. Its perfect for me, perfect for those chocolate lovers like me. It smells so heavenly and made me feel that I am bathing in chocolate, alright, in this case, I meant, scrubbing away all the dead cells with yummy mocha chocolate.

Everyone knows that chocolate gives you antioxidants, what better way to have it on the body, by using a body scrub like this?
It comes in a tub as shown above, with little grains ( salt or sugar? I am not that sure.) sank at the bottom. So to use it, you have to dig deeper to get some of the grains out, together with the creamy brown chocolate mocha contents. Inhale and start scrubbing because the scent is a heavenly indulgence.
I found it to be abit messy to use though. When I scooped it out, it tends to leave brown globs around my bathroom glass door and wall. And because its brown, its pretty obvious. Even when I was scrubbing my body, smears of the brown contents are hard to ignore as they get splattered around. I tried to be gentle to avoid the messiness but its difficult when you are doing a body scrub.

And I do found the grains to be abit rough for my delicate and sensitive skin. Something which I was disappointed with. The granules are rough against my skin and while it gives me smooth beautiful skin but the rough nature is something which I rather avoid, considering that its not cheap in the first place.
You also have to make sure that you bath rather thoroughly, in case you missed out some spots with brown smears on the body.

Ingredients :
Organic Dark Belgian Chocolate1, Organic Hawaiian Kona Coffee Beans2, Organic Grapeseed Oil3, Extracts of Pure Bourbon Madagascar Vanilla Beans1, Organic Oregano1, Organic Thyme1, Organic Rosemary1, Organic Grapefruit Seed3, Organic Goldenseal4 and Organic Cinnamon1, Vitamin E (a-tocopherol), Vitamin C (calcium ascorbate), Blackcurrant Oil

Source : 100% Pure

Review : Skin Food Black Raspberry Saeng-Gi Essence Mask Sheet

Product Description
Extracted from 12 Oriental medicinal herbs, it contains black raspberry extract, jayangboeumdan and cheongyeondan, hyaluronic acid and beta-glucans. Hydrates aging skin with dramatic results.

This essence mask sheet contains rubus coreanus miquel extract, which was used to take care of coarse and dry skin in the old days, and sap from twelve herbal plants, to deeply moisturize the skin
It has a heavy herbal scent which I did not quite like. The cut out areas on the eyes and mouth are small while there is an excess flap on the nose area.

I only have 2 masks from this range, which I bought from Korea. After using it on 2 consecutive days, I do find my skin moisturised and supple. The initial flaking skin (due to my blemish gel usage) have greatly improved and is almost non-existent. Happy and impressed, I would say.
The leftover essence from the mask made my face sticky though, which I cleanse away with my facial mist.

It retails for $8 at all Skin Food stores.

Source : Skin Food , Jayio

Review : Skin79 VIP Gold Collection Super Beblesh Balm

Product Description
It is 3 effects function beblesh balm. By Adenosine and Arbutin ingredients which are effective in whitening wrinkles improvement cultivate more bright and elastic skin. Intercept ultraviolet rays UV A and UV B at the same time and protect your skin exposed from this sun more thoroughly. Abundant nutrition of Gold and Caviar extract cares skin intensively to make shiny, healthy skin. OSMOPUR ingredient of new concept which is mixed sunflower, rice bran, ivy extracts protect skin from various harmful conditions. This product has excellent cover function by composition of make-up base and foundation. It can correct your irregularly different skin tones naturally. At the same time by use of fine soft texture porosity powder is excellent for your skin adhesion and sebum control. This is W/S shape which is good for skin affinity and it make your skin light, soft and flawless all day long

I received this as a sample sachet from a good friend of mine. Recently, Skin79 have been widely marketed by different beauty bloggers in Singapore, hence you may have heard about it. They have tried their cream with tremendous success but sadly, its just not for me.
This BB cream has all the goodness that every lady would long to have, like caviar and gold extracts and supposingly able to give whitening benefit.

This Beblesh Balm feels and looks like liquid foundation yet is light and non-greasy when applied on the skin.
It blends in seamlessly into my skin, without leaving a trace.
I have combination skin with surface dehydration and this product fits me quite well in terms of oil control. Normally I do need to blot once per day and this product does just that, nothing more and nothing less.

It has sheer to medium coverage and while it cannot cover heavy blemishes, it does help to make my skin looks more even toned in a natural way.
As with all BB cream, this comes with SPF25 PA++ which is good for daily use.
So what is it that I dislike about this? It gives me breakouts.
And its not the usual small zits but big horrendous zits which took a very long time to go away.

I do not have a major acne problem but I do have breakouts every now and then during my menses period but this BB cream is the ultimate in giving me huge ugly zits.
I have only used this 3 times and zits surfaced in all 3 times. For the intial 2 times, it appeared on my nose and chin. I stopped using it for more than a month as I waited for it to subside with my usual dose of deep cleansing and blemish gel. 
Then I switched back to using it and another zit occured on my chin again. Urgh. And thats it, thats the end of this product for me.

You can get it at $36.90 at Watsons stores.

Source : Amazon

Review : Tears Line Control Smile Lip Patch & Neck Lift Patch

This new brand, Tears was started by Kwon Sang Woo. As derived by Koreanthings,
'Tears’ is a natural and low-priced cosmetics. There are currently 48 series of more than 500 kinds of products. After the opening of the 1st store in Myeong Dong, it is planned to open the 2nd store at Daegu. In February next year, the 3rd store will be open in Busan and will enter into the duty free shops market.

I am delighted to say that I have my first dose of Tears products from a good friend of mine today. It was not quite what I expected because I have never use any neck masks or lip patches. Since I never really turned down any chances in trying new products, I gamely tried it today.

The neck patch is a sticky adhesive to be pasted directly on the neck. I found the floral scent to be quite overpowering to the point of almost choking. As it is supposed to adhere to the neck, I found it to be quite a constraint and uncomfortable. And because I was trying different ways of pasting on the neck by peeling it off and on, it may have loosen the grip on the neck, hence 50% of the flap was hanging in mid air after some time.
I did not quite like it to be on the neck as it restricts my movements and I found it difficult to breathe.
Since I only have 1 patch, its difficult for me to judge the effectiveness. I also did not had it on for a long time as I found it to be quite uncomfortable so its not fair to say that its not effective.

The lip patches are quite interesting, as there are 2 layers, one to be pasted on the upper lips and one on the chin area. It comes pasted on a plastic sheet of paper which looks almost cheapo, to my standard.
Its fits perfectly and are quite comfortable on the lips area.
I do not have any issues with my lip area in the first place so I cannot comment much on its effectiveness.
It also has a strong scent like the neck patch which I rather do without.

In conclusion, I may not get both items but I would continue to explore this brand. Hopefully, their masks would not have such strong scents.

Review : Skin Food Carrot Collagen Eye Sheet

Product Description
Contains carrot extract full of vitamin A, marine collagen and royal jelly that moisturizes and tightens the dry and sensitive eye rims. Hydro-gel, which offers excellent skin affinity, contains an extensive portion of nutrients that gets absorbed into the eye rims easily.
Carrot extracts and marine collagen concentrated in the patch are antioxidant, free radical destroyers. Packed with time-fighting ceramides proven to increase collagen structure within the skin.

The packaging looks almost the same as the rest of the eye masks in the market. However, once opened, I am pleasantly surprised that its kept in a sealed condition with a silver foil. The torn foil reveals 2 cresent moon hydro gel eye sheet masks kept in a plastic tray.

As with all hydro-gel patches, its not wet at all, but slightly moist, hence there is no messiness.
It was refreshing and there was a slight tightening feel during treatment.
After using 6 masks over a 3 weeks period, I would say that the immediate effect after each treatment is, the eyes look less haggard and the fine lines were slightly less visible. There is no difference to the puffiness though.

At $5 per piece, its an expensive maintanence to upkeep unless you get it in Korea. Beside, the positive effects are only temporary. Just a good pampering treat for the eyes every week.
This is one of the Skin Food best seller.
Just a slight note that there is alcohol content in their ingredient though.

Ingredients :
Water, Condrus Crispus, Carboxymethyl Chitin, Alcohol, Methylparaben, Potulaca Oleracea Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Betane, Beta-Glucan, Prys Cydonia Seed Extract, Scale Collagen Powder, Buylene Glycol, Glycerine, Dadcus Carota Sativa Root Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Phenoxyethanol,Blue No. 1 C142090, Disodium Edta, Propylparaben

Source : Skin Food
Ingredient source : Vivawoman

Review : Therapeutic Dermatologic Formula Hydrating Treatment Mask

Product Description

A hydrating mask enriched with Vitamin A, C, and E to help replenish skin moisture and reduce skin irritation. Skin is instantly supple and brighter looking after applying the mask!

I bought 3 items from this brand from Changi Pharmacy quite some time back. You may have read my review on their spritz which I did not quite like. However, I quite like their Vitamin C serum though.
I was hoping that this hydrating treatment mask would be good. My first usage was quite a disappointment and I subsquently dumped it aside in the fridge.
 
It did not help my dehydrated skin at all. A total flop was my opinion at that time. My mum experienced itchness when she tried it.
 
A few months ago, I decided to give it a chance again. Comes packaged in a tub, I am impressed with their hygiene factor as there is a lid with a spatula to scoop out the contents to be used. Pink, soft and creamy in texture, it layers onto the face like a breeze. However, I would still say that the hydration factor is pretty low but the good news is, my skin does feel supple and look slightly brighter.

The washing part is quite a hassle as its quite sticky to the face, almost like a clay mask so some cotton pads and water did the job for me.
 
Ingredients :