Review : Oriks Essence Twister BB Cream - Wild Ginseng Stemcell (Callus)

I received 4 cute tubes as part of the points redemptions in Taiwan at Cosmed (where they sell alot of masks and beauty products ) Even their local convenience stores also has this concept just that the items to be redeemed are different.
I like their concept of redeeming such skincare items and really hope that our local stores can incorporate such concepts. Anyway, I have already pitched this idea to Watsons. :P

A check on Oriks website did not appear to have this BB cream, I presumed that perhaps its a new product
which is not officially kick-off yet?
I actually have a love-hate relationship with this BB cream.

Initially, it started off as a dream. Blends smoothly and well into my skin seamlessly. Loose powder on top of the BB cream give it an overall smoother and even skin-tone.
Subsequent usage proved fatal, it started to ball up between my cheeks and wings of my nose. Flakiness appeared on my nose. I thought it could be because my skin is too dry.
I stopped using it and went on to keep my skin well-hydrated before I tried it out again. It still balled up though the flakiness on the nose have more or less disappeared. Loose powder on top of it just made my skin look worse. I cannot fathom why.

The scent was pretty alright, not strong. I have no problem with my T-zone oiliness while using this so I guess the oil control is still pretty good.
I am not sure if there is only 1 shade available but the shade I got, is more for the fair-skinned.

The tube did not mention if there is any SPF or the kind of properties it provide to users. But from the ingredient list, there is titanium dioxide so there may be sun protection in this BB cream. And from the name Ginseng or stemcell, I presume this BB cream does contain minerals to give healthy skin. You can check out the range of products from the Oriks website

The coverage is sheer to medium, able to cover light blemishes and giving flawless skin at certain times. But right now, it balls up pretty frequently and I am not giving this a second chance anymore.
There are alcohol, parabens and dimethicone in it, for those who are concerned about such ingredients.

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Review : Kracie Ichikami Shampoo and Conditioner

Shampoo Product Description
Pure Japanese herbal essence is known as hair care ingredient from the ancient times. Repairs damage and moisturizes hair. Fine lather gently cleanses hair without damages caused by friction while shampoo. Gentle wild cherry blossom aroma.

Conditioner Product Description
Pure Japanese herbal essence is known as hair care ingredient from the ancient times. Natural oil smoothens hair and protects it from damages caused by friction. Gentle wild cherry blossom aroma.

Ichikami is said to have come from the ancient Japanese proverb which means “Hair comes first, appearance comes second”.
Kracie incorporates hand-picked herbal ingredients and with the use of science and technology to develop the Ichikami series for those who wish to have trouble-free hair while enjoying the refreshing and fruity fragrance of Sakura.

Ichikami hair care series contain Rice Premium EX (Yusuru essence, oil and protein originated in rice bran) plus six kinds of pure Japanese Herbal Essence (Belanmcanda/Camellia/Soapberry/Walnut/Sasanqua/Sakura) to nourish, repair and moisturize your hair. One of the unique selling point of Ichikami shampoo is, it does not contain any silicon ( a chemical ingredient gives a result of silky smooth hair right after you wash; however it may result in hair fall in a long run ) Hence, Ichikami gives you a healthier scalp as well, this is very important to reproduce healthier hair while enjoy refreshing and fruity Sakura fragrance.

Shampoo Japanese Herbs :
Hiougi (Belamcanda chinensis), Camellia extract, Soapberry, Yusuru essence (originated from Rice bran), Yusuru Lipid (originated from Rice bran)

Conditioner Japanese Herbs :
Hiougi (Belamcanda chinensis), Camellia extract, Yusuru essence (originated from Rice bran), Yusuru oil (originated from Rice bran), Yusuru Lipid (originated from Rice bran)

Yet another favourite Japanese drugstore haircare product from many ladies in Asia, then there must be a reason why its so much well-loved, isn't it?

 
And so I picked this up from Liang Court, when there was a Japanese fair going on, with the set of 40ml shampoo and conditioner for $3.90.


The packaging is simple, without any unnecessary frills, with white colour to denote as the shampoo and black colour as the conditioner.
The scent is there, strong when I take a sniff but dissipate pretty quickly when I lather on my hair.

The shampoo is a pearl-like colour with a slight sheen and the conditioner is of a heavier consistency with a milky beige colour. The shampoo lathers very well and cleanse well. The conditioner helps to make the hair softer though I tried pairing with other brands of conditioner and it also works fine.

 
Both products when paired together, gave me slightly smoother and detangled hair. Not the best, but works better than most hair products I used before.

 
Their Ichikami Premium Mask, was ranked as No. 1 under ‘Hair Pack/ Treatment’ category in 2010 at cosme.net so perhaps that may be the next hair mask I am getting. But first, I have to get past my tons of hair products waiting to be used.

You can check out the rest of the products on their website
I derived the ingredient list from the sources below but I am not sure if its the correct ones, because in the conditioner ingredient list below, it does contain silicones (dimethicone).

Where To Purchase : Shopee
Kracie Ichikami Shampoo and Conditioner

Shampoo Ingredients:
water (aqua), tea-lauroyl sarcosinate, palm kernel amidopropyl betaine, ppg-2 cocamide, cocamide mea, glycol distearate, tea-lauryl sulfate, fragrance (parfum), sodium chloride, sodium benzoate, citric acid, polyquaternium-10, guar nydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, disodium edta, alcohol, polyquaternium-7, oryza sativa (rice) germ oil, butylene glycol, caramel, hydrolyzed rice protein, phytosteryl rice branate, methylparaben, sapindus mukurossi peel extract, propylparaben, oryza sativa (rice) bran extract, camellia japonica seed extract, phenoxyethanol, belamcanda chinensis root extract

Conditioner Ingredients:
water (aqua), stearyl alcohol, glycosyl trehalose, behenamidopropyl dimethylamine, dimethicone, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, amodimethicone, fragrance (parfum), behenyl pg-trimonium chloride, paraffine, lactic acid, behenyl alcohol, c12-14 pareth-7, methylparaben, phenyl trimethicone, hydroxyethylcellulose, bis-isobutyl peg-14/amodimethicone copolymer, alcohol. c12-14 pareth-5, ceteth-25, propylene glycol, oryza sativa (rice) germ oil, ceteth-5, caramel, acetic acid, citric acid, magnesium nitrate, sodium benzoate, phytosteryl rice branate, sodium salycylate, btylene glycol, hydrolyzed rice protein, camellia japonica seed extract, methylchloroisothiazolinone, methylisothiazolinone, tocopherol, oryza sativa (rice) bran extract, phenoxyethanol, belamcanda chinensis root extract

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Perfect Potion + Laneige + Clarins Haul

Clarins Mascara Set $35 ( original retail $40 but I used a $5 Tangs voucher to offset it )

The 5 trial sizes of Love + Toast hand creams from SoapnSorbet ( I think its about $7 or $8 )

Perfect Potion Detox Body Buff $26.90 ( from Parco Marina Bay )
Laneige Eye Make-up Remover $20 ( original $25 )

Skin Blossoms Body Wash $15.90 from Choose ( manned by a good looking bloke )
Skin Blossoms Hand Cream $16.90 from Choose
Palgantong Theatrical Powder $13.44 ( after 20% discount from John Little )

Lemongrass and Green Tea Body Scrub $25.60 ( 20% discount from $32 at Lemongrass House )
Lemongrass Shower Gel $7.20 ( 20% discount from $9 )

Lemongrass House is having 20% discount as part of GSS on its shower gel, body cream, body scrub and other selected items )

Review : Queen Helene Organic Cocoa Butter Body Scrub

Product Description
Queen Helene Organic Fair Trade Certified Cocoa Butter Body Scrub is a wonderful body scrub that gently exfoliates, and will leave your skin glowing and radiant.This body scrub is infused with nourishing Organic and Fair Trade Certified Cocoa Butter and Jojoba Oil. It not only hydrates, but also softens and smoothes. Antioxidant Vitamin softens while Walnut Powder exfoliates, leaving your skin glowing and radiant! Paraben and Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate Free.

I was looking for a bug balm at Dragon D'or and the lady recommended this body scrub to me, saying its very good and popular. To my understanding, Queen Helene is famous for its Mint Julep mask.
Anyway, since I was in need of a scrub, I bought it. Its so easy to earn my money. :P

At $17.50 for 6oz, I thought its abit expensive but the curiosity trait in me, just wanted to try and see.
It has a funny fake scent, like plastic and trying too hard to be cocoa. The 100% Pure Body scrub smells so much more delicious.

I am fine with the beads, which are not that abrasive on my skin. My body does not feel drying after each wash, just clean and slightly smoother.

INGREDIENTS:
Aqua (Purifed) Water, Vegetable Glycerin, Sodium Myreth Sulfate, Stearic Acid, Cetyl Alcohol, Vegetable Caprylic (Capric Triglyceride), Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder, Montmorillionite, Glyceryl Stearate, Cocamidopropyl Bentaine, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Meal, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate (Natural Vit. E), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba Seed) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Aloe Vera Leaf Gel, Helianthus Annus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Xantham Gum, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyehtanol, Glycereth 2 Cocoate, Benzoic Acid, Fragrance Oil Blend.

Source : Queen Helene , Vitaneonline , Amazon

Review : Lollia Mint Julep Clover Blossom Shampoo and Bee Balm Conditioner

Shampoo Product Description
Lollia presents this kind, cleansing shampoo formulated with shine enhancing ingredients. Purifying Clover Blossom protects while Wheat Proteins build strength. Light enough for daily use on all hair types. Infused with Vanilla Bean, crushed Mint, shredded Coconut , Star Anise to lightly perfume your tresses.

Conditioner Product Description
Barely there conditioner for flirty, shiny hair. Bee Balm keeps hair calm while moisture-rich Milk and Wheat proteins condition. Light and lovely enough to use everyday. Healthy, bouncy hair that is never weighted down. Lightly perfumed with Vanilla Bean, crushed Mint, shredded Coconut and Star Anise. Just enough to leave a heavenly halo that is simply unforgettable.

I bought Lollia Mint Julep Clover Blossom Shampoo and Bee Balm Conditioner from San Francisco airport, while waiting to catch the next flight to Minneapolis, back in February this year. It was not available in Singapore and the lovely sweet packaging caught my eye. And so, I happily picked up their hair products and 1 shower gel.

They were so beautiful. The packaging and the tube. So girly. So feminine. Its for the likes of all women out there. The description for all products were all printed on the packaging itself in the interior. Probably frustrating for the user to read but a good paper saver nevertheless and kudos to that.

The mint julep scent smells really good. Very soothing and smells heavenly for both the shampoo and conditioner. For anyone who uses tube products would know that the packaging tends to ugly after awhile. And all the squeezing made my shower experience into a battle of strength as I tried to squeeze whatever I can, with my buttery and wet fingers. Urgh.

I probably should have blamed myself for using only a safety pin to poke through the aluminium seal on the tip which only manage to make a small hole for a couple of black ants to crawl in. The red ant probably need some help to into that black hole though. Alright, I know. Its exaggerating.

The clear gel-like shampoo contents needs water and much lathering on the palms before foam forms and onto the hair it goes. However, the foam on the hair disappears soon enough and I have to squeeze more contents from the tube again. I did not quite like the almost foam-less shampoo, although it still manage to cleanse moderately well. It has a slightly minty feel on the scalp.

The milky white conditioner contents are easier to work with, its basically like a normal conditioning agent on the hair. However it failed to moisturise or soften the hair as much as I would like.
This has a heavier minty tingling feel on the scalp than the shampoo, almost made me feel like I am using an anti-dandruff shampoo.

Well, its not something I would repurchase but if you are keen, you can get them from Amazon or Lollia. You can also check out my reviews on Lollia Mint Julep Honey Rich Shower Gel and Lollia Shea Butter Hand Cream.

Lollia Mint Julep Bee Balm Conditioner
Lollia Travel Hand Creme Set
Lollia Wish Boxed Soap
Lollia Breathe Tranquil Bubble Bath

Shampoo Ingredients

Conditioner Ingredients

Source : Lollia

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Review : New York Streets Liquid Shine

Product Description
Smooths, Protects, Shines
Reduces frizz and controls unruly textures while maintaining style under extreme humid conditions.
Prevents damage from thermal abuse and UV rays.
Unique conditioning agents penetrate deep into the hair shaft to promote a smooth, silky feel, restoring hair to its natural healthy condition.

Sephora Singapore was having a little discount on their New York Streets products so I picked this up.
It was on my to-buy list after I read it about it on some magazines online. You can check out the rest of the products in the same range here
After all the once a year colouring job and perm, I decided shine is something that is essential to make my hair look healthier-looking.

Many people do not pay much attention to the condition of their hair and eons ago, I was one of them too.
But a good hairstyle does make a difference to the whole outlook, other than groomed brows.
That said, I am not a perfectionist and I will never be. So frizz is something I can lived by, without being too crazy, in a reasonable manner.

This product comes in a very lovely tin container. I love useful packaging or container. It made recycling more fun and the product less boring. I can re-use the bottle to many usages like, using it to hold all your brushes on the dressing table or on your travels, keep little knicknacks, etc.

The clear gel is very greasy so I do not mind using it on either dry or wet hair, though I think it works significantly better on dry hair.
I hate the nozzle dispenser though. Its way too small and the contents get increasingly difficult to get out of the bottle as time goes by. And because its so greasy on my hands and bottle, it become slippery as well, which made dispensing it frustrating.

I used about 15 presses for 50% of my long tresses. I usually do not use treatment or styling products
all over my hair.
Hair looks slightly better, with a hint of shine ( though not very obvious ) and just a tad less frizzy.
Overall, it looks healthier looking in a very subtle way, without any greasy after-feel.

Source : New York Streets

Review : Caudalie Micellar Cleansing Water

Product Description
This micellar water cleanses and removes make-up thoroughly yet gently. Micellar water captures dirt like tiny "dirt magnets" and sweeps it away without rubbing. This high-tolerance formula is suitable for even the most sensitive skin, thanks to its soothing and hydrating active ingredients.
No parabens - No phenoxyethanol - No phthalate - No sodium laureth sulfate - No ingredients of animal origin - finished products not tested on animals
Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. Soap-free.

Main ingredients:
grape, camomile, plant glycerine, mine, caraway, galbanum.

A good friend has helped to get this for me during her family trip in USA mid-last year. The price did not differ that much from the prices in Sephora Singapore. Since its an essential product used every evening, after work, you can bet that I used up this pretty fast. Within a month. But for those who applied heavier  make-up, you probably can used this up in 3 weeks, I guess.

The clear liquid cleanses very well in its gentle way ( Micellar water is known for being gentle on the skin ) 1 cotton pad did an almost thorough job, including light eye make-up. It also does not leave any greasy after-feel, but thats to be expected for cleansing water which is what I like.
Water-proof eyeliner and mascara does need abit more time to be removed but its still a great job done.

The only thing that I cannot get past is the scent. Its really foul-smelling. I wish it can be a better experience but the scent is just off-putting. Really really hate the scent.

Score of 4.1 from 61 users on Makeupalley

You can purchase it from Amazon.
Caudalie Micellar Cleansing Water

Ingredients :
Water, Poloxamer 184, Glycerin, PEG 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Myristamidopropyl, PG Dimonium Chloride, Phosphate, Cocamidopropyl Betainamide MEA Chloride, Bisabolol (L-Alpha), Parfum, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, Sodium Chloride, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract (Grape)

Source : Caudalie , Amazon

Review : Cosme Decorte Moisture Liposome Essence

Product Description
MOISTURE LIPOSOME, launched in 1992, is a new type of cosmetic serum that incorporates liposome technology which had not until then been used in cosmetic products. Propelled by its proven benefits, MOISTURE LIPOSOME enjoys a strong customer base and robust sales, with three million bottles sold to date.

Benefits
(1) Rapid penetration rate - enhanced capability to penetrate smoothly even into previously uncharted terrains of the keratin layer, offering sensational penetration even in troubled and problem skins. Liposomes' extremely minute size allows superb penetration and absorption into your skin.

(2)High IQ intelligent targeting - aids to strengthen areas of deficiency and restores damaged skin cells. Able to transport moisture to the needed locations in the needed amount. The liposomes' close resemblance in composition to the skin cell's membrane, as well as their high affinity for the skin ensures smooth permeation of the moisturizing agents deep into each cell. To repair damaged skin cells as well as dry and chapped skin

(3) Long-lasting nourishment - composed of up to 20 layers, which is peeled off one by one in a time-release manner. As each layer peels off, a fresh portion of beautifying agents is released into the skin over time. Conventional moisturizers manage to moisturize the skin only at the time of application.

The multi-layers of the liposomes release their moisturizing agents layer by layer over time. Starting from the outer layer, a measured amount of nutrients is released continuously. Applied twice a day, your skin drinks in moisture 24 hours on end.

(4) Synergistic capability - dramatically enhancing the penetrative capability of products used in the ensuing skincare regime. Acting as a facilitator, it triggers further moisture absorption in the deepest of keratin layer. Enhances the penetration of other beauty products. Speedy supply of moisture into the skin surface regulates and soften skin texture. So beauty products applied subsequently see better absorption rate.

(5) Gentle on your skin - composed solely of active agents, which bring nothing but amazing effects. Powerfully effective with no added impurities needed to reinforce its capability. Oil-free. Alcohol-free. Suitable for all skin types, even on sensitive skins. And for all seasons of the year.

This was part of the GWP from a magazine sometime back where 6 sachets were provided. Cosme Decorte is the higher end range from the brand Kose hence, the prices are higher. With higher prices, it comes with higher expectations. Indeed, this product did not disappoint me.

I started off using this alone (without any additional products thereafter) at night for almost 2 weeks. ( Its supposed to be used twice a day for day and night ). For something that costs so much, I am curious to see how this best-selling product fare.

It has a nice fragrance though not necessary as far as my products are concerned. The slight milky gel with a lightweight fluid texture melts into the skin wonderfully, leaving a slight sticky after-feel which disappeared soon enough.

I used it on most of the nights and found it to be most effective on freshly exfoliated skin ( I used Ginvera Marvel Gel for 2 to 3 times per week)
Just a night with the essence, you can see and feel the difference. The skin feels silky smooth, looks brighter, less tired and plumped up with moisture the following morning.
With subsequent usage, the skin looks clearer, more rested and well hydrated. In fact, I hardly have any flakiness on my skin, since I started on this essence.

Thereafter, I started using it as a day essence, followed by a Biotherm hydrating moisturizer ( which I will review sometime later ).
Indeed I found that my moisturizer that I applied after the essence sinks into my skin faster and my skin feels softer, smoother and with even better hydration.
It scored 4.1 from 14 users on Makeupalley

I do not have the ingredient list on my samples, however a search on the net shows up 2 slightly differing version of the ingredients

Ingredients (ratzillacosme) :
Water,, butylene glycol,hydrogenated lecithin,sodium PCA,acetyl glutamine,chimaphila umbellata leaf extract,birch bark extract,equisetum arvense extract,tocopherol,sodium hyaluronate,hops extract,pinus sylvestris cone extract,lemon fruit extract,rosemary extract,benzophenone-5,carbomer,xanthan gum, cholesterol,ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate,sodium hydroxide,methylparaben,fragrance

Ingredients (cosmetic-ingredient)

Source : Kose , ratzillacosme

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Review : Nuxe Gentle Pureness Toning Lotion

Product Description
Gently fragranced, this lotion tones your skin after cleansing and prepares it for your day or night care product. Its extremely fresh texture and fragrance with delicious Jasmine notes leave your skin perfectly clean and toned.
A moment of freshness with 3 Roses and Floral Water (Witch Hazel, Rose, Camomile) to decongest and tone your face. Enriched with Allantoin, this lotion soothes and will not dry out your skin.

The rose, the queen of flowers, is delicate, fragile and endowed with a subtle fragrance. Associated with well-being and sensuality, the rose has been a beauty product for centuries and is renowned for its softening, moisturizing and toning properties.

White Rose : soften, soothe and detoxify skin.
Black Rose : soothe, soften and detoxify skin.
Red Rose extract : softening and astringent.

This toner was a GWP from a magazine which I had been using for the last 2 months. The frgrance does need some self-adjusting from my nose while the colour is on the grey side when poured out onto the cotton pad, which sometimes mislead me into thinking that my skin is more dirty than it actually is. lol.

This gentle toning lotion claimed to be able to be used on the eyes area though I personally do not use toning lotion on the eye area so I cannot comment on its sensitivity.
Its also paraben-free, phenoxyethanol-free and uses 91.60% ingredients of natural origin which is good for the skin in long term.

I have nothing much to hate about the toner except for its scent which I did not particularly like. Then again, I have nothing much to like about its performance either.

Ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Hamamelis Virginiana Distillate (Withc Hazel), Polysorbate 20, Sodium Chloride, Parfum/Fragrance, Allantoin (Comfrey Root), Benzyl Alcohol, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Cetrimonium Bromide, Bisabolol (L-Alpha), Citric Acid, Tromethamine, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Anthemis Nobilis (Roman Chamomile) Flower Oil, Rosa Alba Flower Extract, Rosa Hybrid Flower Extract, Rosa Damascena (Bulgarian Rose) Flower Oil, Benzyl Benzoate, Cinnamyl Alcohol, Geraniol, Hexylcinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Linalool

Source : Amazon , Nuxe

Unforgettable Moments Amethyst

The trio (7ml each)  in a pack was originally selling for US$7.99 but it was on sale for a mere US$2.99 ( US$3.22 after tax ). Made in Taiwan, its available in the shop "Payless" at Mall of America in Minneapolis.

The colour Amethyst is just one of the 3 colours in the pack, which happened to be one of my favourite colours of the lot. For some reason, deep purple attracts me.
The texture is fluid and applies easily, with a smooth consistency. It also has a glossy attractive effect. However it took about 3 to 4 coats to reach the opacity I wanted and requires some time for it to dry. This is the set I bought. You can check out other colours here, from the same brand.

Review : Sunsilk Waves of Envy Sea Mist

Product Description
Tousled, texturized beach waves. Think you can only get great beach waves when you're on the beach? Not anymore! Get that laid-back look anytime with the Sunsilk Waves of Envy Sea Mist. Its two parts give you texture and softness, so you can get that bathing - beach-beauty look all year round.

I purchased it through drugstore.com early last year, but did not use it that frequently as I was always saving it for a special occasion. Apparently, it seems that this product have been discontinued, a couple of months after my purchase. I had read some positive reviews about it before and subsquently went ahead to purchase it, together with some of my other USA products haul.

I usually like to note down all the products which I wanted to get, and then get it all at one go during my online purchase. Of course, that can be quite disastrous, because I would have ended up having a stock full of products in the same category which took ages for me to finish up. And unlike some other gals, who skipped from product to product, I usually like to completely use up a product unless its really very bad.

This product contains sea salt which attracts moisture from the air to help create the perfect condition for a tousled beachy look while special polymers help hold your waves.
Hence, there are 2 layers in the bottle, with clear transparent liquid on the top and the blue liquid on the bottom half. You need to give it a good shake before spraying onto your hair.

It was quite a steal at US$3.99 for 198ml and it truly delivers what it promises. Beachy tousled waves like what you see on celebrites. I have always like curls, hence I permed my hair once a year. And because my hair is pretty thick and coarse, my curls can actually last me for a year, no kidding.

I am always on the lookout for products that can either add shine, enhance the curls or condition my damaged ends. And so this Waves of Envy, though did not make the mark for most of the points I have raised up here, it definitely scores high on the defining curls in such a natural texturized way that you simply can't hate it.

I did not start off liking the scent but soon grew to accept it. I usually like to use my hair products on damp hair as I found it to be most effective. Hence I usually use this after my leave-on conditioner, spray sparingly throughout my hair, twist, scrunch it and I am off to work.

It has a light hold and holds the curls in a natural way with texture and definition. I definitely see a difference with and without the spray. But please do not overspray, you may end up with an almost sticky, mad curls look. This product is simply awesome, anyone with wavy hair should at least try this once and you will understand how easy to have beachy beauty look all year round.

On a more serious note, do note that Diazolidinyl Urea is on of the ingredients. It is considered as a formaldehyde releasing preservative, supposingly to prevent or retard bacterial growth, and thus protects cosmetics and personal care products from spoilage. Due to its low concentration, its considered to be safe for use (source). But since you are the one paying for the product, you have to consider if its worth to have this ingredient in your own product. It may cause allergies or irritations in some users and is not recommended by David Suzuki.

Source : Amazon

Review : Aromatherapy Associates Balance Shampoo and Conditioner

Shampoo Description
Aromatherapy Associates Balance Shampoo is a gentle effective shampoo with pure essential oils to optimise a healthy scalp and hair. Suitable for all hair types.

Conditioner Description
Aromatherapy Associates Balance Conditioner is an enriching conditioner with pure essential oils to maximise smooth and glossy hair. Suitable for all hair types.

I bought the travel pack from Cosme at US$8 for a 40ml shampoo and conditioner set early this year as I like essential oils and thought I would just try this out.
I actually quite like the scents of both the shampoo and conditioner as its filled with lovely essential oils. The shampoo is filled with rosemary and ylang ylang while the conditioner is filled with ylang ylang, geranium and pathouli.

The shampoo, in its clear gel form is a gentle cleansing shampoo, while the conditioner, in a creamy white form does a normal conditioning job.
In summary, there is nothing much to rave about both products. I did not find that I have smooth or glossy hair and my hair still get tangled easily. Using the shampoo alone, made my hair kind of dry and adding in a conditioner made my hair much better. ( note : any conditioner works fine )
However, the shampoo does contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS) which may not be welcomed by some users.

Shampoo Ingredients

Conditioner Ingredients

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Review : Neogence Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Mask

Product Description
Neogence Hyaluronic Hydrating Mask provides deep hydration in an easy and effective way. It enhances the degree of water replenishment. In addition to hyaluronic acid, it also contains nourishing ingredients. The rich essence of moisturizing ingredients plumps the skin at a time, restoring skin radiance from within.

Main Ingredients :
Hyaluronic acid, algae extract, beta-glucan

I brought along 2 sheets to my recent Taiwan trip which I bought for a mere $1.95 at Sasa. I usually like to bring hydrating masks on trips, regardless of short or long duration but typically, I use 1 mask per night, in order to hydrate my skin. Reason being, my skin can get pretty dehydrated under unpredicatable weather overseas, hence hydration is key for good make-up in the morning. Sometimes, it works sometimes it doesn't. I try to hope for the best by selecting what I think it may works, based on my own experiences.

My skin was pretty flaky and bad during my summer trip in Las Vegas back in 2008 and my Neutrogena
hydrating masks, while worked fine in Singapore but its not able to cope with the harsh summer condition in Las Vegas. Hence, that was a wake-up call for me, to bring along better masks for trips.

Funnily, HA doesn't work all the time for my skin such as this mask. I had great expectations of anything with HA, afterall, its meant to be for hydration and it should deliver hydration to my skin at its minimum.
This mask, while heavily soaked in essence has virtually almost no scent as far as my nose is concerned. Less irritants which is good. It comes with eyeflaps which is a bonus when you want to relax in the hotel with air-conditioning and just napped for a while.

However it failed to soothe the flakiness on my cheeks while in Gaoxiong, Taiwan. I was kinda disappointed.
I probably won't be picking up this mask, else its definitely value-for-money if it works but too bad, it doesn't.

Source : Sasa

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Review : Adin Collagen Essence Mask

Product Description
Enriched with collagen in high concentration, which is the essential element for making skin eleastic and moist, it makes the skin healthy and smooth while improving skin elasticity. Formulated with Vitamin E, collagen and Hyaluronic Acid, it maks the skin moist and elastic and also reduces tension in the stressed skin and has astringent effect. It is especially suitable for use when special care is needed such as when the skin looks dull or dry, it comforts skin through providing nutrition and moisture immediately as as well as calming.

A close colleague of mine passed 2 sheets of this mask to me, as she found it to be pretty efffective on her skin. She bought it at quite an affordable price in Hong Kong, if I remembered correctly.

The material of the sheet is very soft, too soft, in my personal opinion, thats its totally 'collapsable', if there's such a word. Its very wet and adhere to the skin very well, probably due to its 'collapsable' material and its sticky wet essence.

During my first sheet usage in the first week, I was not WOWed by it, but during the second week, when my skin has some flaking bits, I saw the effect almost immediately after removing the sheet.
It moisturised my skin very well such that all the flaking bits have disappeared. I was definitely impressed.

But atlas, the impressive effects were temporary as the next morning, I saw some flakiness back again, but its definitely much better than not using the mask. Not all flakiness were back, but its definitely in better condition.

Do note that Triethanolamine is at the 4th last ingredient which is known to be harmful to the lungs and eyes. More information can be found in Truthinaging  or EWG .

Alternatively, you can refer to EWG Safety Guide for shoppers or David Suzuki's Guide .

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Review : Shiseido Perfect Cleansing Sheet

I picked this up from a drugstore in Japan and since its all in Japanese, I am unable to describe any of the description to you. Pardon my poor language skills. Surprisingly, I am also unable to find any information on this cleansing sheet online.

Anyway, here's my take on the cleansing sheets which I brought with me to my Taiwan trip recently.

Coming from Shiseido, I have some expectations from it but I am actually quite dismayed with the experience.

With 11 sheets, the adhesive on the packet is still strong enough to withstand at the end of my 11days usage, unlike some of the drugstore brands I owned before. Each sheet is also pretty generous in size, more than enough for my whole face, including eye make-up, although I still need a separate eye make-up remover to remove my eyeliner. 

The sheets are not that wet, in fact it feels abit dry which made me wonder if the plane cabin air during my Japan flight and Taiwan flight made it worse. Nevertheless, it is still able to cleanse off my face make-up. Its less effective on my eye make-up, so I still doubled up with an eye make-up remover followed by my regular cleanser. The smell is the worst. The alcohol scent is just too strong and I really dislike it. Even though it did not make my face dry but I shudder at the consequences of long term usage. It also made my eyes itchy which hardly happen to me, when I used other brands.

In summary, its definitely not something I would ever buy again.

Review : Dermalogica Sebum Clearing Masque

Product Description
Purify and help prevent breakouts with this cooling, deep-cleaning, clay-based masque
For Acne/Breakout-Prone Skin. Dermalogica Sebum Clearing Masque is a cooling, refining and deep-cleaning  Kaolin and Bentonite clay masque that purifies, absorbs excess surface oil and prevents future breakouts. Dermalogica Sebum Clearing Masque inhibits the growth of acnegenic bacteria while stimulating the skin's natural antimicrobial agents for clearer, healthier skin. Contains no artificial fragrance or color.

I have 2 sachets of this masque which is enough for 7~8 times of usages as I only use it on the T-zone or zits-affected areas. 

I used to use a clay based mask once a week when I was younger for deep-cleansing but as age crept up and my skin becomes drier, I limited it to times when zits occured, which is usually before my monthly menses. Recently, my T-zone seems to be quite oily so I used this mask on my T-zone once a week, then lately zits started to occur on my upper lips and chin so I used it on those affected areas as well.

Main Ingredients
Salicylic Acid : exfoliates dead skin cells and clears congested follicles to minimize development of future comedones and breakouts.
Kaolin and Bentonite clays : absorb excess oil.
Spiraea Ulmaria Extract : inhibits bacteria by stimulating the skin's natural anti-bacterial agents.
Niacinamide, Yeast Extract, Horse Chestnut, Licorice, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) and Caffeine : regulate sebum production and soothe inflammation.
Zinc Gluconate and Caffeine : help regulate sebum production and help control bacterial metabolism of sebum-reducing inflammation.
Cinnamon Bark : blend inhibits bacterial lipid metabolism and degradation of enzymes while eliminating bacteria and providing astringent properties.
Oat Kernel, Bisabolol and Licorice : help soothe irritated skin.
Farnesyl and Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) : strengthen follicle membrane.

When I used it on my T-zone on clear but oily skin, it is refreshing and minty (probably due to its several menthol derivatives ) but I did not find any improvement in my level of oiliness. The next morning, my T-zone is still oily on the 3 times I have used it.

Moving on, I used it on my zits-affected area recently and found an improvement in the reduction of my inflamed zits. Less inflamed and the zits feel and look better. The zits become smaller within 2 days and it become less red and less obvious.
Note that the dry areas, when applied with this masque may cause flushing hot sensation, as in the case of mine.

The active ingredient is Triclosan at 0.2% which may not be welcomed for many users as its not deemed to be safe by some organizations. 

You can check out the rest of the reviews at Makeupalley with 57% of the 14 users willing to buy the product again.