Review : Olivella The Olive Shampoo and Conditioner

Shampoo Description
Innovative formula made with Natural ingredients and Olive Extract for normal, dry, or color treated hair. The OLIVELLA Shampoo leaves hair shiny, restored, and soft to the touch. Cleanses hair while adding benefits of antioxidants (Vitamin A, E and Polyphenols) to give hair strength, vitality, and luster.

Conditioner Description
Formulated with Natural Virgin Olive Oil. The Olive hydrating cream conditioner revives and restores dry damaged hair. An ultra-rich daily moisturizing conditioner that detangles and hydrates normal, dry, or chemically treated hair.

Key Benefits
Contains Olive Extract with Natural Anti-Aging and Antioxidant Ingredients
Paraben Free and made with Natural Ingredients
Free Of Animal Fats
Free of SLS (Sodium Laureth Sulfate)
Free of dyes with natural color from olive chlorophyll
Dermatologically Tested
Not tested on animals

Olivella is a new brand that comes onto Singapore shores last year. This Italian brand has been known in the States for some time but not Singapore. Since Olive Oil has always touted to be an excellent antioxidant, I bought a set of their hair products and hand cream to try out.

The first 2 times of trying out both products, I have the urge to stop using them and throw it in the bin. However, the practical side of me won't allow that, of course. The price is actually quite affordable, $13.90 for 250ml each. Still, I like to use up the product to be a fair judge.

Both products have a citrus scent which is light and nice. The shampoo, of light yellow colour does not lather much but still able to do a decent cleansing of the hair, with more quantity than my usual amount. The conditioner, of a white creamy yet light texture is the better of the 2. I prefer the conditioner much more than the shampoo. Thats because the shampoo tangled my hair too much durin the cleansing process. My hair becomes straw-like and difficult to comb thru with my fingers. Loading the conditioner onto my tangled mess does not help that much.

I got quite frustrated with the products in the beginning because I do have a tangled hair problem ever since I started perming my hair but using the shampoo made it even worse. Dry and tangled.
So I decided to use the conditioner on the tangled hair mess before using the shampoo, in the hope of softening and detangling the portion, before I start shampoo-ing my hair. It works quite well for most of the time, and I was really happy with the result.
My hair did not get that tangled up easily and even if there is, it can easily be detangled with my fingers. So the new process meant that I used up the conditioner twice in every hair washing, depleting it much faster than the shampoo.

However, recently, it seemed that the new process is not working that well on my hair anymore. My hair, though feels soft after each wash ( conditioner -> shampoo -> conditioner ) did not detangle as much as I would want to. I will still persist to using up both products but no way will I be re-purchasing them again.

Shampoo Ingredients
AQUA (WATER),LAURAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE,COCAMIDE DEA,COCAMIDOPROPYL HYDROXYSULTAINE,PARFUM (FRAGRANCE),LAURAMIDOPROPYLAMINE OXIDE,DISODIUM LAURETH SULFOSUCCINATE,HEXYL CINNAMAL,LINALOOL,LIMONENE,GLYCERIN,CITRONELLOL,BUTYLPHENYL METHYLPROPIONAL,GERANIOL,PROPYLENE GLYCOL,PANTHENOL,COCODIMONIUM HYDROXYPROPYL HYDROLYZED WHEAT PROTEIN,COCODIMONIUM HYDROXYPROPYL HYDROLYZED SILK PROTEIN,OLEA EUROPAEA LEAF EXTRACT (OLIVE (OLEA EUROPAEA) LEAF EXTRACT), ALPHA-ISOMETHYL IONONE,CITRAL,METHYLCHLOROISOTHIAZOLINONE,METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE, OLEA EUROPAEA FRUIT OIL (OLIVE (OLEA EUROPAEA) FRUIT OIL).

Conditioner Ingredients :
AQUA (WATER),MYRISTYL ALCOHOL,GLYCERIN,CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE,PARFUM (FRAGRANCE),PANTHENOL,PROPYLENE GLYCOL,QUATERNIUM-80,OLEA EUROPAEA FRUIT OIL (OLIVE (OLEA EUROPAEA) FRUIT OIL),HEXYL CINNAMAL,LINALOOL,CITRONELLOL,LECITHIN,COCODIMONIUM HYDROXYPROPYL HYDROLYZED WHEAT PROTEIN,COCODIMONIUM HYDROXYPROPYL HYDROLYZED SILK PROTEIN,COUMARIN,ASCORBYL PALMITATE,TOCOPHEROL,BENZYL BENZOATE,BENZYL CINNAMATE, ANISE ALCOHOL.

Source : Olive

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Review : Naruko Rose & Snow Fungus Aqua Cubic Moisturizer

Product Description
NARUKO Rose and Snow Fungus Aqua Cubic Moisturizer provides long-lasting and in-depth hydration to the skin. It forms a water-binding film on the skin to protect against water loss. This moisturizer improve, firm and tighten pores, keeping skin healthy, tender and translucent.


Key Ingredients :
White Willow Bark extract : moisturize and repair the dry cuticle
Natural Snow Fungus extract : gives the skin endless moisture
Vit E microcapsules and Retinyl Acetate : enriched in antioxidants and helps tighten rough, large pores
Bulgarian Rose essential oil : conditions and relaxes stressed muscles

Naruko products are known to be parabens-free, contain no artificial fragrances and are not tested on animals.
Parabens come in the forms of butylparaben, ethylparaben, isobutylparaben, methylparaben, or propylparaben, and they have been linked distantly (meaning in limited studies and with only a handful of subjects or animal studies) to breast cancer due to their weak estrogenic activity and their presence in a tiny number of breast cancer tissue samples. Parabens can also make your skin look older, diminishing skin tone and accelerating the formation of wrinkles and age spots.

However, according to Paula, parabens actually have a very "natural" origin. They are formed from an acid (p-hydroxy-benzoic acid) found in raspberries and blackberries and that there is no research proving parabens should be avoided when you shop for personal-care products.
From a natural point of view, if you are indeed concerned on parabens, then there are some healthy alternatives (source) :
•Neem extract: Derived from the azadirachta tree in India, neem is a potent antibacterial that, when combined with other botanicals, forms an effective preservative.
•Neopein: This innovative, broad-spectrum preservative is a proprietary blend of natural plant extracts that protect water-based products from bacteria and fungi.
•Phenoxyethanol: A nontoxic, broad-spectrum preservative used to protect against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Phenoxyethanol must be used in conjunction with other preservatives like potassium sorbate to be effective. ( note that according to this source, its best to pair this with diazoldinyl urea which releases formaldehyde )
•Polyaminopropyl biguanide: Kills a wide range of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. An excellent alternative to parabens, polyaminopropyl biguanide does not disrupt hormones or release either formaldehyde or volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
•Potassium sorbate: Derived from the mountain laurel ash, potassium sorbate is a mild antimicrobial that also protects against yeasts. It is used in conjunction with phenoxyethanol to protect against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.
•Rosemary oleoresin: An oil-soluble antioxidant that helps to prevent rancidity.

At 120ml, its best to be used within 6 months after opening which I thought was quite a short duration. I have been using this for close to 4 months and still have about 50% left, with daily morning usage. Considering that it costs $23.90, its quite a value-for-money moisturiser.

It has a subtle rose-scented fragrance and the bottle has a wide opening but once you got the hang of it, the wastage can be minimized. The white milky lotion-like consistency is easy to massage into the skin but I took some time to adjust to its texture initially. For the record, all, if not most of my moisturisers come from Biotherm. Despite the overhyped and overpriced products, their moisturisers work very well for my combination, sensitive and dehydrated skin.

However, the ever-increasing prices of their moisturisers made me take a step back and re-look other brands. Moisturiser, to me, is the most important step in my skincare regime, because of my dehydrated skin. Serums do contain more goodness than moisturisers but I haven't found the holy grail serum as of now. Because of the rave reviews of Naruko, I decided to take the plunge and try their hydrating moisturiser. In Taiwan, I was told that this range is very good for hydration by one of the promoters. This moisturiser is one of  the products in the trio set I purchased, where it contains a toner and night gelly.

Being used to the cooling gel texture commonly found in Biotherm moisturisers, I was surprised to find that this Naruko product is like a milky emulsion type. It took about a minute for it to sink into the skin after which the slightly sticky feeling disappeared, leaving soft and supple skin in its place.

On their website, this product is recommended to be used with cotton pads and wipe it in a circular motion. However, I am used to using moisturiser with my bare hands so I did not follow their recommended step.
On a normal good day where my skin is doing fine, this moisturiser works well to maintain the hydration level on my skin. However, when my skin is dehydrated and rough, this moisturiser failed to perform any "magic". The hydrating ability is just not enough to soothe, tone and moisturise my badly thirsty skin during those bad times.

Ingredients
Phytoferulin®, Tremella Fuciformis Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Salix Alba (Willow) Extract, Panthenol, Ceramide, Serine, Alpha-Arbutin, Saccharide Isomerate, Retinyl Palmitate, Encapsule Vitamin E. Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycereth-26, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Dimethicone, Polyquaternium-51, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, PEG-7 Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-40 Stearate, Ceteareth-20, Phenoxyethanol, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Essential Oils of Rose (Rosa Damascena), Rosewood (Aniba Rosaeodora), Palmarosa (Cymbopogon Martinii), Petitgrain (Citrus Aurantium Var. Amara)

Update (20th Feb 12) :
After 5 months, the scent have turned racid, which smells more like spoilt milk which is kind of nauseating. The colour and texture remains the same. This is the first time that I have experienced a product turning bad on me so I was kind of surprised. It does contains 2 preservatives in the ingredient list.

Phenoxyethanol : Common cosmetic preservative that is considered one of the less irritating ones to use in formulations. It does not release formaldehyde.

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate : A synthetic preservative that is typically used in concentrations of 0.1% or less. It is very active against fungi but has weak antibacterial activity, which is why it should always be used with other preservatives in water-based products

Source : Naruko

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The No-Knife Eye Lift

Over time, eyelid skin becomes thinner, more lined, and less toned, creating the impression of fatigue. "I often hear this complaint from women who say their eyes make them look worn out," says Washington, D.C., cosmetic surgeon and laser expert Hema Sundaram, M.D. But treatments and makeup tricks can brighten and wake them up. Here are the best of the bunch.


Puffy Eyes
Some puffiness is genetic, and no eye cream will erase or reduce it. But if your bags come and go, fluid retention is probably the cause. Salty dinners, late nights, a cocktail or two — they can all make your body hold on to water. "Since lid skin is thinner than elsewhere on your face, you'll notice swelling more," explains Jody A. Levine, M.D., a New York City dermatologist.

To the Rescue: Thanks to the pull of gravity, morning facial puffiness is usually gone by lunchtime. To speed things up, try placing a chilled eye compress, cold water-soaked tea bags, or cucumber slices over lids for five minutes. Cold constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling, says Dr. Levine. The caffeine in many eye creams is tightening, too. "Gently press on the bones around your eyes as you apply it," she suggests. "The pressure helps stimulate circulation and drain excess fluid."

Dark Circles
When blood vessels show through skin, they can give the eye area a bluish cast. "Since skin becomes more translucent with age, blood vessels appear more prominent," explains Heidi Waldorf, M.D., a New York City dermatologist. A less common cause of darkness: post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, doctor-speak for clusters of brown pigment that collect underneath the eyes due to heredity or chronic rubbing (often because of allergies or bothersome contact lenses).

To the Rescue: Daily use of any basic eye cream will temporarily plump skin so blood vessels are less visible, says Dr. Waldorf. Eye creams are a better choice for this purpose than regular face creams, because they tend to have a higher concentration of emollients for plumping and a thicker texture, which makes them adhere to the ever-mobile eye area. To improve the look of brown pigment, try an eye cream with botanical skin lighteners like licorice and kojic acid.

Lines and Wrinkles
Every time you smile, frown, yawn, or squint, the skin around your eyes crinkles up. Eventually, as the collagen levels diminish, your skin literally stays scrunched, and deeper creases take the place of fine lines.

To the Rescue: A few ingredients are essential. The first is retinol, a vitamin A derivative that rebuilds collagen levels and helps smooth fine lines. (Tretinoin, the stronger, prescription-strength version, also known by brand names like Retin-A and Renova, yields faster, more dramatic results but can irritate the delicate eye area.) Antioxidants like green tea and vitamin C, which help skin retain collagen, are effective wrinkle reducers, too. If your skin is especially sensitive, swap vitamin A products for peptides — proteins that also stimulate collagen growth. "Peptides don't sting or cause redness the way retinols and their cousins can, but they are also less potent," says Dr. Levine.

Sagging Lids
As collagen, elastin, and fat decrease with age, eyelids get droopier. "Genetics determine when your skin will sag and to what extent," says Diane Madfes, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. "And like any skin aging, sun exposure hastens the effect." As a result, some women have sagging in their late 30s.

To the Rescue: No eye cream alone will reverse sagging once skin begins its downward slide. Only surgery gives you truly long-term improvement. But artfully applied eye makeup can make drooping lids less noticeable. "The trick is to define the lashline and neutralize the lid," says celebrity makeup artist Sandy Linter. Apply a light, nude-colored shadow (like cream or mocha, depending on your skin tone) from your lashes to your brow. Next, dip a liner brush, such as Jane Iredale Eye Liner/Brow Brush ($12, janeiredaledirect.com), in a gray, brown, or black shadow, and apply color as close to the base of top lashes as possible. "Shadow creates a softer, more natural look than a pencil liner," says Linter. Finish with dark-brown or black mascara.

What a Doctor Can Do
When you want faster, more dramatic results than even the best eye cream or makeup trick can offer, you'll find plenty of longer-lasting (but costlier) options at the dermatologist's or plastic surgeon's office.

Best for Banishing Wrinkles

Botox injections. The doctor makes tiny injections of botulinum toxin into the muscles that cause wrinkles, forcing them to relax. The injections take effect in a week or so, and the area stays smooth for three to six months. Cost: about $500.

Chemical peels. A medium-depth peel (like trichloroacetic acid, a.k.a. TCA) stimulates collagen growth by removing the top layer of skin. The body senses an injury and cranks out new healthy skin as a way of healing itself. You'll look like you have a bad sunburn for five to seven days, but then facial skin will be smoother and less lined for six months to a year. Cost: about $1,000.

Lasers. Many kinds of lasers are used around the eyes, usually as part of an allover facial rejuvenation treatment. Lasers help reduce wrinkles by resurfacing skin and stimulating collagen production. As with a peel, you'll look badly sunburned for a few days to a week before the smoothing shows up; it'll last for a year or more, until new wrinkles form. Cost: about $2,000 for the face, including eyes.

Best for Hiding Dark Circles

Hyaluronic acid injections. This clear gel filler, known by brand names like Restylane and Juvéderm, is injected directly into the hollows beneath the eyes to even them so they no longer appear as dark shadows. Expect swelling, mild bruising, and tenderness for up to a week afterward (the bruising can be covered with concealer). Results will last three to six months — or more.

Best for Lifting Sagging Lids

Blepharoplasty. During this surgery, the doctor makes tiny incisions around or inside the eyelids to remove loose skin and excess fat, which create a droopy, sleepy look. It takes about two weeks before the bruising goes down; you may not want to return to work until then. But the tightening effect lasts for years. "This procedure can make you look 10 to 15 years younger," says Mark A. Codner, M.D., clinical assistant professor of plastic surgery at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta.

How to Fake Looking Awake
When morning news anchors pull off the bright-eyed look at 5 a.m., they often have their makeup artists to thank. Here, New York City makeup pro Deborah Bell, who has worked with everyone from Katie Couric and Ann Curry to Soledad O'Brien and Campbell Brown, shares the eye-enhancement tricks she deploys daily before the sun rises.

Use brightening eye drops. It's the easiest, quickest way to make eyes look more awake. "The drops remove any redness and make the whites seem whiter," says Bell.

Avoid dark eye shadows. They cast the entire lid in darkness. Use a flesh-toned hue instead to even out skin tone, then top it with a sheer gold shadow, applied from lashline to crease. "Gold's luster makes eyes really shine," says Bell.

Dust bronzer over blush. After applying blush, Bell sweeps bronzer along the cheekbones. "Shimmer high on the cheeks brightens the whole face, including the eyes," says Bell.

Dark-Circle Camouflage

Choose Your Disguise. Pick a creamy concealer (like the kind in a compact). "Creams have a stronger hold than liquids and won't creep into fine lines," says New York City makeup artist Shaun Thomas Gibson. Your concealer should be a shade lighter than your skin tone to counterbalance darkness. We like Physicians Formula Concealer Palette ($8, drugstores), a compact with three shades of concealer, finishing powder, and a tiny applicator brush.

Perfect Your Technique. Dab on eye cream, and let it soak in for a minute. Then apply foundation (if you wear it), including under your eyes — this will erase some of the darkness so you can use less concealer. A concealer brush will give you the most expert-looking coverage, though a well-placed finger works, too. Paint the cover-up from the inner corner of the eye to the midpoint beneath the eyeball, then feather it out, blending away any obvious demarcation lines.

Save Your Work. Dust a tiny bit of nude face powder over concealer to hold it in place.

Source : Real Beauty

Review : Nature Gate's Gentle Cleansing Lotion

Product Description
Our incredibly gently cleansing lotion helps melt away the grime of the day without effort. Dirt and oil out; dewy softness in. While Yucca and Rose Geranium get skin refreshingly clean, Safflower, Aloe, Jojoba and Shea Butter prevent dryness and tightness. Clary Sage and Cucumber keep the mood mellow, while Peppermint adds an uplifting experience for the senses. Clary Sage is a biennial plant with three-foot stems, compact blooms in white, light blue or lilac, and velvety, pungent leaves. Also known as Clear Eye, the distilled flower and leaf water relieves irritated eyes. The essential oil is used for perfumes and seasoning. Dried, it is found in teas and potpourri. With aromatherapy, Clary Sage is a powerful relaxant that reduces stress and fatigue. Historically, the herb also helped calm asthma and digestive problems. In our luxuriously rich cleanser, Clary Sage brings comfort to skin, leaving it amazingly soft and free from impurities. Easily dissolves dirt, oil and makeup; Highly emollient, skin-balancing formula; Helps soften, soothe and rejuvenate skin. Paraben-Free. Cruelty-Free. Made with Certified Organic Botanicals.

And so, I bought my very first natural cleansing lotion, from Nature's Gate via iHerb at US12+, compared to the highly marked-up version in Guardian. The glass type packaging does look fragile, especially since I usually place my cleansers at the top glass cabinet in my bathroom.

This cleansing lotion supposingly to be gentle for the skin made my skin worse and I never hate a product as much as this. It made me wonder why I even bother to keep trying. Because I did. I wanted to confirm that its the cleanser. I still have about 75% left in the bottle and I told myself that there is no point trying anymore because its horrible. Period.

It comes in a pump dispenser stored in a transparent glass bottle. I usually pump several times to get the white milky contents out and massage on the face before rinsing off with water. The first week after using it every evening left a red patch on my right cheek that wouldn't go away. The red patch was warm, itchy, red, raw and dry. I have developed an allergic reaction to it! Zits were formed on my chin and nostrils. Several hydrating and moisturising masks just wouldn't make the patch disappear though my zits did disappear with my blemish gel. Left with no choice, I went back to my favourite brand - Avene and bought their cleansing water and thermal water.
After a week of using it religiously, my skin finally calmed down and went back to normal. The whole experience took me 3 weeks. ( During the initial 2 weeks, I have been trying different masks but to no avail ).

So what did I do once my skin calm down? I went back to using this horrible cleansing lotion again, but on alternate days. This time round, it left my skin in eczema-like patches on the face. Cold sores symptoms near the lips, at both ends. Red flaky and gruffy skin around my nose. Itchy and dry patches between my eyebrows.
I stopped using it for several weeks for my skin to recover and then used it just once this week and all the bad patches came back. Totally hate myself. For something that earned itself a 4.5 at Makeupalley and the positive reviews on iHerb, I never thought it would be this bad. My first natural product as a cleanser. My first skincare product from Nature's Gate. ( I used its deodrant and haircare products before) . Horrid experience.
It did remove my make-up but nothing spectacular about its performance.

If there's anyone who would like to try this product or have no issue with it, feel free to email me or leave a comment. You can pick it up from me at no charge. Its hygenic enough due to its pump dispenser and the packaging is still intact.

Ingredients
Water, *Pelargonium Graveolens (Rose Geranium) Water, *Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Water, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric triglyceride, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Wheat Bran glycosides, Cetearyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract¹, Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) Leaf Extract¹, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract¹, Yucca Schidigera Extract¹, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract¹, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Extract¹, *Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Panthenol, Allantoin, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Isostearate, Sodium PCA, Polysorbate 80, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Bisabolol, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Sodium Coco PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Hinokitiol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance

Source : Amazon

Tame Frizzy Hair

Hair is complex. It's made up of three layers and thousands of cells. But the reason it gets frizzy is pretty simple.
Your hair's outer layer -- the cuticle -- looks kind of like a shingled roof, says dermatologist Carolyn Jacob, MD. When hair is smooth, those shingles lie flat. But when you run a brush through dry, curly hair, those “shingles” lift.

To compound the problem, frizzy hair is often drier, and naturally tends to absorb moisture from humid air, says Dennis Baker, a stylist who owns Baker Lanier Salon and Day Spa in Atlanta. Again, those “shingles” lift.

Fortunately, there are ways to tame the frizz. You just have to give it a little effort.

Frizzy Hair: 12 Quick Tips to Keep Hair Frizz-Free

1. Don't brush dry hair. If there's one tip repeated by just about every expert, it's this: avoid brushing hair after it dries. Brushing not only disrupts your hair's cuticle, it can also stretch hair, leading to breakage.

Instead, Connie Eeyerlin, a stylist at Dionysius Salon in Eugene, Ore., suggests towel drying hair after a shower; brushing, combing, or finger-combing it; adding a touch of your preferred conditioner or anti-frizz product, then just say no to styling with brush or comb.

2. Comb dry hair with wet fingers. If you shouldn't brush, what can you do when humidity or a brisk day leaves your hair a frizzy mess? Water is the key, says Eeyerlin. "The problem with frizzy hair is that it's dry. Water is a basic response to this basic problem." Eeyerlin suggests wetting your hands, then finger-combing to tackle frizz and tame tangles.

3. Tame with a touch of conditioner. To foil her frizz, California archivist Kimber Camacho favors watering down a bit of hair conditioner, then using her hands to apply it to just the tips of her hair.

4. Look for protein in your conditioner suggests dermatologist Jacob. A protein-infused conditioner will not only help you manage frizz, it helps create shine, too.

5. Don't over-process hair. Relaxers and straighteners can make hair brittle and lead to breakage, Jacobs says, so go easy on these products.

6. Put moisture back in your mane. Frizzy hair tends to be drier, so you need to put moisture into it. Use a conditioner, a natural oil, or a frizz cream, says stylist Baker in Atlanta. He says natural oils are better than synthetic because they are absorbed into the hair, while synthetic silicon moisturizers lay on top of the hair, making it appear dirty.

7. Stop 'cooking' your curls. "Anything that would blister your skin doesn’t feel so great on your hair either," writes Teri LaFlesh, author of Curly Like Me. To minimize frizz, LaFlesh suggests avoiding flat irons, curling irons, and limiting heat sources to a blow dryer with a diffuser.


8. Use a round brush to smooth your hair. If you spin a round brush through your hair as you blow dry it, it helps smooth the cuticles flat, says Baker.

9. Dry only the roots of your hair. To help reduce the chance of frizzy hair, Eeyerlin suggests blow drying only your roots, it gives hair lift but helps you avoid drying out the hair shaft and hair tips.

10. Go alcohol-free. Because alcohol can dry hair out, setting you up for frizz, look for alcohol-free products. That may mean switching to salon-quality shampoos, conditioners, and hairsprays, says Eeyerlin. "Salon-quality products don't have to last as long on the shelf, so they don't contain as many harsh ingredients -- like alcohol -- as supermarket and drug store products do."

11. Fight afternoon frizz by smoothing hair with a small amount of detangling spray, the kind made for baby hair. Marie Gains, a North Carolina caretaker, says "I spray a smidge of it in my hand and then smooth it down. It's very lightweight and doesn't make your hair look oily."

12. Talk to your stylist. "If what you're using works, use it," suggests stylist Eeyerlin, whether it's a pricey product or a great drug store find. But if you want help in the fight against frizzy hair, remember that your stylist is there to help and probably has a host of hints that'll help keep you frizz-free from morning to night.

Source : WebMD

Newspaper Inspired Nail Art

Apply a neutral nail color like OPI Samoan Sand and allowed to dry. Then she dipped each fingernail into alcohol -- we'd recommend using vodka for better results. Press a large strip of newspaper onto the top of each soaked nail. Remove slowly and finish with a glossy top coat to seal.


Source : Stylist

Review : Bioderma Soothing Mask

Product Description
• A new step forward in the treatment of sensitive intolerant skin, the patented Toléridine® complex instantly and durably acts against inflammation. It raises the skin’s tolerance threshold. The skin is more resistant and thus better protected against external attack, so it becomes less reactive.

• Sensibio Mask instantly soothes feelings of overheating, redness and tightness, and restores the skin’s radiance.
• The moisturising agents of Sensibio Mask provide lasting comfort and rebuild the cutaneous barrier thus avoiding the penetration of irritant agents.
• Formulated with rigorously selected active ingredients known to be harmless, preservative-free and fragrance-free, Sensibio Mask guarantees optimum tolerance, including for the eyes.
• The application of Sensibio Mask is a real moment of relaxation and relief. Its soft, smooth texture procures a wonderful feeling of well-being.
• Sensibio Mask is non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic.

I have good experiences with Bioderma products so far and this is the last product from the Bioderma trial set that I have bought several months ago. However, this mask was a disappointment.

It has a soft creamy white texture which goes on light and soothing on the skin. It is scentless and is quite comfortable to use on tight skin.
Touted to relieve redness and tightness, I have tried using this mask on several occasions. When my skin turned red and become patchy due to sensitivity with a cleansing product, this mask failed to relieve the redness though my skin did feel less warm. However the redness and patchiness were still there.
After an eyebrow trimming, I tried using the mask on the sore area but it also failed to soothe the redness.

My Avene thermal water is still the best solution to soothe redness. However I still harbour high hopes for this brand because I think its a really good brand for sensitive skin.

Ingredients
WATER (AQUA), GLYCERIN, CETEARYL ISONONANOATE, ISOHEXADECANE, GLYCOL PALMITATE, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, TRICETEARETH-4 PHOSPHATE, FRUCTOOLIGOSACCHARIDES, MANNITOL, XYLITOL, GLYCYRRHETINIC ACID, RHAMNOSE, LAMINARIA OCHROLEUCA EXTRACT, GLYCOL STEARATE, PEG-2 STEARATE, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, TITANIUM DIOXIDE, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, DISODIUM EDTA, XANTHAN GUM, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, ALUMINA, STEARIC ACID.

Source : Bioderma

Ingredients to stop the clock

When it comes to anti-aging, we're literally inundated with creams and serums that promise to fill lines, even spots and even bring you back the smooth skin you had when you were younger. Lofty claims aside, how do you know what really works? While certain products make certain promises, there are a few ingredients that are scientifically proven to work -- and we've enlisted the best of the best in the skincare field to help break it down. Herewith, our guidelines for the top seven anti-aging ingredients:


1. RETINOIDS: A derivative of vitamin-A. Retinoids are hands-down the most important (and effective) ingredient on the market. "That’s always my first choice when people ask me," says Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd, founder of Specific Beauty. "We’re talking about years and years of clinical research that has been proven to improve fine lines and wrinkles." Retinoids work by rapidly turning over the cells, which then generates healthier, younger-looking skin -- once the dead skin cells are removed. You should know that it comes in different forms (and strengths): Retinol (which is great for beginners) can be found in various over-the-counter products, while its stronger counterparts retin-A, Tazorac and Differin and require precsriptions.

2. GREEN TEA: A botanical antioxidant. The nutrients in green tea neutralize free radicals that damage cells and tissue, which in turn slows down the aging process. While you can reap the benefits by drinking green tea, Woolery-Lloyd advises applying it topically: "It's more concentrated and will work better as an antioxidant."

3. VITAMIN-C: A naturally-occurring antioxidant that helps fight free radicals. "One of the things that can cause wrinkles, among skin cancer and other things, is damage towards DNA,"notes Woolery-Lloyd. "80 percent of the damage that can occur in the DNA of the skin comes from some environmental sources like the sun or smoking or living in a highly-polluted environment. Antioxidants block the free radicals in our skin that can increase skin damage, photo aging, wrinkles and fine lines." Vitamin-C works to prevent that.

4. RESVERATROL: A powerful antioxidant derived from grape skin, and found in red wine. By promoting cell turnover and increasing collagen and elastin production, it effectively firms skin's texture. Resveratrol is also effective at repairing damage.

5. HYALURONIC ACID: A sugar that binds a thousand times its weight in water. This is essentially your best line of defense against dryness. "If you have loss of volume and want to fill in those surface irregularities, this is a great moisturizer for highly wrinkled skin," says Dr. Cheryl Karcher, consulting dermatologist for Avon Skincare. While hyalauronic acid-based products can applied topically, Dr. Karcher notes that it is far more effective when injected (Restylane, Juvederm) into the dermis.

6. GLYCOLIC ACID: An alpha-hydroxy acid (or AHA) that's derived from food, like fruit. "They basically exfoliate the top layer of the skin by breaking the glue that holds the top layer of skin together, so that when you exfoliate you have smoother, luminous skin underneath," says Woolery-Lloyd. "They essentially buff the skin, and help with pigmentation and photoaging issues," Karcher adds.

7. BROAD COVERAGE SUNSCREEN: This type of sunscreen will protect the skin against harmful UVA (aging) and UVB (skin cancer) rays. Karcher notes, "UVA and UVB sunscreens help fight against anti-aging by boosting skin's own antioxidants to fight free radicals."

Source : Stylist

Hair Botox

"As hair ages, we produce less keratin — the protein that renders it strong and healthy — because our bodies can't absorb essential minerals and vitamins as effectively," explains Christyn Nawrot, a national educator for haircare brand Phyto. And without adequate or high-quality keratin, strands slowly become porous, hyper-prone to breakage, and scary-skinny. Thankfully, high-maintenance hair extensions aren't the only option.

Build strength: According to Nawrot, the biggest culprit of aging and keratin depletion is frequent heat styling — with professional-grade (read: hotter and more powerful) tools women now use at home — because it completely zaps moisture from the hair. "Moisture is key," she says. "It allows minerals to develop more readily and helps to keep free radicals away."

Scale back stress: Just as stress can cause a breakout to erupt on your chin, it can also encourage hair to revolt. "The second biggest offender for people with density loss and lifeless-looking hair is stress," adds Nawrot. "Each piece of hair has its own circulatory system, a sweat gland, a sebaceous gland — its own little world. With stress, each follicle becomes tight and rigid." Essentially, stress spikes adrenaline production, which can convert into androgens (male hormones including testosterone) and cause extra hair to fall out. The best Rx: Chill out. But if yoga and meditation aren't on the schedule, ask your doctor about prescription anti-androgen treatments. If you're taking the Pill, switch to a low-androgen one, such as Desogen or Ortho-Cyclen.

Feed your hair: Since hair is a nonessential tissue, that means it's the last one to have access to any of the nutrients you ingest. "The system will take care of what's a priority first, which is cardio and lung function, not the hair," says Liz Cunnane, a Philip Kingsley trichologist. "Hair is always at the bottom of the list, so that's why what and how much you eat are so important." Maintaining a well-balanced diet full of protein, iron, zinc, and antioxidant-rich foods, such as berries and leafy green vegetables, and eating regularly will have an effect on hair. And there are a host of helpful supplements: Vitamin K and cysteine aid in the production of keratin and melanin (to delay the appearance of grays), while iron, zinc, biotin, and silica supplements can combat thinning.

Scalp TLC : "Think of how you treat your face, and approach the scalp in the same way," says Cunnane, pointing out that scalp condition impacts hair health dramatically. Products formulated with powerful nourishers like argan and bur oil, grape-seed extract, and vitamins C and E, quite literally treat the scalp as an extension of the skin.

Losing Streak: If an alarming number of hairs are piling up on your pillow and in your shower drain, talk to your doctor. Roughly 30 million women in North America experience hair loss, and unlike male balding, which occurs in localized areas, women's thinning happens all over, so it's harder to detect. "As you age and estrogen and progesterone decline, something called miniaturization can happen," says dermatologist Dr. Francesca Fusco. This severe shrinking of the follicles — better known as female pattern thinning — can be treated in a variety of ways. There is minoxidyl, the drug found in Rogaine, which you would need to apply daily for the rest of your life, or a mild diuretic pill called spironolactone (by Rx only; it also works wonders on adult acne). "The FDA also recently approved the HairMax LaserComb [hairmax.com], which you comb through your hair to stimulate growth and follicle regeneration," Fusco adds.

Source : Marie Claire

Review : Natural Healing Balm

Product Description
A thick, concentrated, nourishing salve with healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Made with ingredients such as shea butter, calendula, carrot tissue, lavender and chamomile that are well known for their ability to heal and aid in skin cell regeneration. All that goodness in just one jar! This balm has a potent healing effect on injured and damaged skin. Apply often on areas affected by insect bites, rashes, eczema, scrapes and minor burns. Massage well into skin!

Once in a while, you get little gems that you cannot do without. I found mine in this little pot of Natural Healing Balm. I don't even have the correct category in my blog for this item because this is not exactly a beauty product yet I really wanted to share this rare discovery with my readers. ;)

When I first moved to stay with my in-laws, I got really bad mosquito bites. Within 5 mins, I can get 13 bites on both of my legs while the family members got none. Its THAT bad and I have gone thru different potions and lotions as well as insect repellents and mosquito coils. There was a period when I slept with the insect repellent turned on every night without fail. ( the kind that you just plug into the socket )

After reading online that such chemicals can be bad for the body, I started searching for some natural alternatives, and stumbled upon this Little Dreamers. I have to confess that I don't have a good initial impression with the people behind it because their emails were not replied promptly and they are not friendly and approachable. There is no personal touch too. However I have since gotten use to such mum-preneurs because they are just so busy with their children and I can understand that. I have the same issue with another online site manned by another mumpreneur.

I am not a fan of salve products, due to a bad experience with Burt's Bee Hand Salve but I was desperate for something that can heal those ugly love bites left by the lovely mosquitoes. And how well it works for me! The price have increased alittle, I bought the 25ml for $11.50 more than a year ago and its selling for $12.50 now. The hand salve contents are packed in this little 25ml pot and each time you have to dig your fingers into the greasy salve to scoop them out. I am not sure if there is a better way in using them but thats how I use them for now. I would be more particular on the hygiene factor if its for the face but I am more tolerant when its for the body. You only need alittle for each bite mark so the 25ml gem goes a long way.

It has an odd scent, probably because of the ingredients and the salve is thick and concentrated with a heavy greasy after feel. But trust me, it worked wonders, on itchiness and on mosquito bites. It soothe and heal the bites and I love it so much. Do note that I don't use it on my face because I always separate my body and face products. Its also effective on the surrounding area of wounds where it itches due to skin renewal.
I am not sure where the owner gets her products but she did tell me she bought it elsewhere and its not her own formulation. However, I am unable to get any information from the net on the tub's brand name " Rainbow Botanicals"

Ingredients :
Shea butter, wheatgerm oil, olive oil, beeswax, calendula infused oil, carrot tissue oil, vitamin E, organic lavender essential oil and roman chamomile essential oil.

Review : Organic Basic Pure Castile Liquid Soap - Organic Lemon Myrtle

Product Description
Use as liquid soap; hand, bath and shampoo. Gentle to use for children. Suitable for baby. Pure castile soap does not lather as much as synthetic soaps however it is a very effective cleansing agent.

I went to Chomp Chomp for dinner several months ago and stumbled upon a shop in My Village selling these body washes. 

At 125ml, its quite a convenient size for travelling however, its also enough to tell me that its not suitable for me.

The light yellow contents provide light suds for foaming and while its enjoyable during the bath, however once the suds are rinsed off, it left a drying feeling on the skin. Hence I like to follow up with a body moisturiser thereafter.

It was an overkill to say that its gentle for children and suitable for babies, since I cannot even use this product. Does that meant my skin is more sensitive than a baby? Gee.

Review : Shiseido White Lucent Anti-Dark Eye Cream

Product Description
Shiseido White Lucent Anti-Dark Circles Eye Cream is formulated with breakthrough ingredient Dark Circles Diminisher to combat the two major causes of dark circles. It targets the root of melanin, the main cause of dark circles, reduces melanin that has already been produced and instantly brightens the eye area by improving microcirculation. The result is a bright, youthful-looking eye area, free of unwanted shadows.

This eye cream is also formulated with the high moisturizing ingredient Super Hydro-Synergy Complex N, to keep delicate eye area skin moisturized over long hours.

You can hardly find me with reviews on new products as fast as this, as I prefer to let skincare products do its miracles with time. This product has just newly been launched island-wide on 30th Dec 2011. A friend who is a faithful Shiseido fan passed me a 0.3ml sachet as she just purchased the retail size for her own usage. The sachet lasted me for a week's usage with twice daily use.

With the recent millia seeds scare, I was careful in using this, with just a pea-sized amount on my undereye area. I have lots of issues, pertaining to my undereye area, dark circles being one of them. After years of experimenting with different eye care products, I don't expect miracles anymore, I am happy with just prevention and maintenance. On the streets and magazines, I am forever envious of celebrities and friends who do not have to grapple with such issues like me.

Its very sweetly scented, like flowers. The white cream with a slight pinkish shade goes on light and sinks into my dry undereye area fast, leaving a slight silky touch. I didn't like that the product contains alcohol in them though.
After a week of usage, I still see no improvement to my undereye area. Then again, eye care products do need a long time for results to be shown. Perhaps you may have better luck with them.

It retails for $78 at 15ml.

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Review : Kose Softmo Collagen Super Cleansing Sheets

Product Description
This cleansing sheet removes makeups in the pores fast and completely. Contains Collagen for moisture. Gives your skin moisture for elastic, firm skin.

I bought several brands of cleansing sheets when I was in Japan and this is the last of my loot.
Singapore doesn't carry many brands of cleansing sheets, at least in the places I have been to, so I was kind of spoilt for choices when I was shopping in Japan's drugstores.

As you can see from the packaging above, it has the commonly used adhesive type of  flap for one to pull out the cleansing sheets for use. The adhesive is quite strong and sturdy unlike others I have came across where there are donkey ears or unable to close properly after several usages.

Even after several months, the adhesive remains quite strong and the cleansing sheets remain moist as before. Considering that this comes from Japan, I should think its expected.

The long thin white rectangular sheet is stretchable and sturdy without being able to tear easily. It has a whiff of alcohol which I preferred to do without. It cleanses off my make-up gunk, including all eye make-up, mascara and liner marks without any remains. Surprisingly, my skin did not feel tight or taut after cleansing, despite the alcohol content. Note that I don't use waterproof mascara and eyeliner at this point.

As a travel companion, this pack of cleansing sheets is really good but I rather do without the alcohol ingredient so its not something I would repurchase.                          

Ingredients:
water, butylene glycol, alcohol, dipropylene glycol, aloe barbadensis leaf extract, saponaria officinalis extract, soluble collagen, disodium edta, peg-3 cocamide, peg-8, polysorbate 80, sucrose laurate, disodium phosphate, sodium phosphate, isobutylparaben, ethylparaben, phenoxyethanol, butylparaben, propylparaben, methylparaben

Source : Webichi

Review : Clinique Moisture Surge Face Spray

Product Description
Water your skin. Take along a refreshing face spray for showers of thirsty skin relief. Bursting with moisture and active aloe. But not a drop of oil. Rapidly replenishes skin's moisture level, restoring balance. Softens and soothes in a flash.

My recent Hong Kong trip had me picking off some travel-size friendly products from their Sasa and Bonjour stores. This product was one of them. I actually bought one larger size during my USA work trip early last year but it was thrown away, due to the < 100ml rule.

I don't use many of their products as I am not a fan of Clinique. Only their Moisture Surge range appeals to me. This moisturising facial treatment in liquid spray form is a handy and portable friendly size for travelling. Their spray mist design gives off an even burst of mist to the skin, leaving the skin feeling fresh and cool.

While I like the burst of hydrating mist on my dehydrated skin, the hydration does not last for more than 30minutes. My skin have been behaving well recently so this was just a minor hiccup for me as I use it as a refreshing mist. However, if I do really need to depend on it when my skin is sensitive, irritated and dehydrated, this comes across as too mild and too gentle. I found it to be useless during that difficult phase of mine and I found myself reaching for my Avene Thermal Spray which does a more wonderful and effective job than this spray.

Nonetheless, everyone's skin is different. It scored a happy 4.1 from 108 reviewers on Makeupalley though.

Source : Clinique

January Quick Review

1) Madre Labs Moisturising Shampoo
2) Madre Labs Moisturising Conditioner

Madre Labs® Moisturizing Shampoo gently and thoroughly cleansers your hair and scalp. It delivers the benefits of our proprietary blend of Antioxidant-Rich SuperFruits (Açaí, Goji, Pomegranate and Seabuckthorn), which helps protect your hair and scalp from oxidative and environmental damage. Aloe Vera, Amino Acids, Panthenol have been added to further nourish and moisturize dry, damage hair. The result is softer, shiny, more manageable hair.

Madre Labs® Moisturizing Conditioner helps rehydrate dry, damaged hair. It also has the added benefit of being formulated with our proprietary blend of Antioxidant-Rich SuperFruits (Açaí, Goji, Pomegranate and Seabuckthorn), which helps protect your hair and scalp from oxidative and environmental damage. In addition, Aloe Vera, Amino Acids, Panthenol and a special blend of select oils have been added to further nourish and moisturize dry, damage hair. The result is softer, shinier, more manageable hair.

Complimentary samples of the moisturising shampoo and conditioner were provided with my first iHerb purchase. The shampoo lasted me for 1.5 times of usage, meaning it was not enough for my second time of shampoo-ing while the conditioner was enough for 2 times.
Madre products do not contain sulfates, parabens, dyes, animal testing and animal ingredients

With the term "Strawberry Oasis", it definitely smells like yummy strawberry milkshake. Both the shampoo and conditioner smell the same.
The shampoo left the hair abit dry and slightly straw-like feeling, when it was damp. Having the conditioner thereafter, is a must to save my hair locks.

Check out some of their other products on iHerb. Don't forget to use my referral code OKI787 to get US$5 off, if you are a first-time customer.

Source : iherb

3) Missha Near Skin Neurocell Original Treatment (Whitening Solution)

Product Description
Highly concentrated whitening ample essence that can vitalize and brighten your skin with even with a drop

1. Synergy effect of Melavax® and DL-Panthenol brightens the skin and cures skin troubles
2. Vitalizes and brightens the skin tone that is tired from stress and other harmful environmental factors
3. Absorbs quickly without grease as if forming a moisture shield that protects and hydrates the skin.

Ingredient
1.Melavax®
Complex of effective ingredients such as Vitamin C and Vitamin B3 that helps to improve skin tone, removes blemishes and cure dark spots.
2. DL-Panthenol
Pro-vitamin of Vitamin 5 to control skin troubles and irritations.
3. Japan, Kagoshima mineral water
Natural water that contains abundant minerals, and amino acid that soothes and treat damaged skin.

I got a complimentary sachet in my beauty stash which enabled me to 1 usage for a night. The orange coloured lightweight texture absorbed easily into the skin, leaving a smooth supple and silky skin. The slight flakiness on the bridge of my nose was gone too.

Source : Missha

Spring clean your beauty routine

Treat your post holiday disorder....


THE DAMAGE: DEHYDRATED SKIN WITH FINE LINES
Culprit: Cigarette smoke
Remedy: Mega-moisture

"When a client is a smoker, I'll see a web of little fine lines [on her skin], like crepe paper," explains Jill Turek, lead aesthetician at Exhale Mind Body Spa in Santa Monica, California. But it's not too hard to get your dewy look back. Turek recommends an alpha hydroxy peel (we love Murad Intensive Resurfacing Peel) to clear away the dead skin cells on the surface, which then allows for hydrating creams to penetrate deeper. Rather than coating your face in thick, oily creams, "use products with ingredients that attract water to the skin — hyaluronic acid, glycerin, seaweed, and algae extract are good examples."


THE DAMAGE: PERMA-CHAPPED LIPS AND NOSE
Culprit: Icy weather and nasal drip
Remedy: Multipurpose healing balm

Stick with formulas that create a moisturizing barrier between you and the world — look for natural ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and olive butter. "Avoid lip balms that contain phenol," says New York dermatologist Dr. Amy Wechsler. "It breaks down the skin and creates 'lip balm addiction.'"


THE DAMAGE: PUFFY EYES
Culprit: Alcohol and salty snacks
Remedy: De-puffing roller-ball and potassium-rich foods

Alcohol and salt can cause the delicate skin around your eyes to retain water, hence those bags you're packing. Grab an eye roller-pen (like The Body Shop Natrulift Refreshing Eye Roll-On) and try this tip from makeup artist Mary Schook: Applying light pressure, work the roller-ball along the puffy half-moons above and below your eyes, from the outside in, several times to work the fluid out. Also, "potassium helps balance electrolytes in the body and regulate fluid levels," explains Snyder. She recommends eating bananas and asparagus — both are high in potassium — drinking lots of water, and snacking on celery, which acts as a natural diuretic.


THE DAMAGE: WEAK NAILS
Culprit: Too many manicures
Remedy: Hydrating cuticle oil

According to Wechsler, repeatedly subjecting your nails to polish remover and quick-drying lacquer can cause them to peel or split. Give your nails a polish-free break for a few days and massage nourishing products like Sally Hansen's Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil into your cuticles and nails throughout the day and before bed.


THE DAMAGE: DRY, FLYAWAY HAIR AND ITCHY SCALP
Culprit: Low-humidity weather plus frequent hat friction
Remedy: At-home hair treatment

Slather an ultra-hydrating hair treatment (try Weleda Rosemary Hair Oil) onto dry hair — it absorbs moisture more efficiently. The oils will loosen dead skin on your scalp and dissolve product residue on your hair so that when you wash (with a moisturizing shampoo, please!), unwanted gunk will rinse away easily. Follow up with a scalp- and strand-targeting healing mask such as Kérastase Age Premium Masque Substantif. Smooth renegade flyaways with a silicone-free hair serum — work a bit through damp hair before blowdrying.


THE DAMAGE: CRACKED HEELS
Culprit: Running around town (in heels, no less) and drier air
Remedy: Foot file and cream

"We typically see more dry, cracked heels in the winter, not only because of cold weather, but also because of neglect," says Carol Jo, a Bliss Spa lead nail technician. After all, it's easy to forget about your feet when they're hidden under layers of tights and boots. Jo recommends smoothing rough spots with a foot file once a week ("Use on dry skin because the file cannot grip wet feet") and moisturizing with cream every day.

THE DAMAGE: UNDER-EYE CIRCLES
Culprit: Spotty sleep
Remedy: A solid eight hours and a deft concealing strategy

A few good nights of sleep will likely banish those new shadows under your eyes, but in the meantime, use this trick from bicoastal makeup artist Emily Kate Warren, who's all too familiar with jet lag: "Mix a brightening cream or highlighter that's the same color as your skin tone with your foundation or concealer, lightly dab on the mixture, let it dry for 20 seconds, and then set it with a light dusting of powder." She also recommends a few swipes of bronzer all over your face to draw attention away from tired eyes. In other words, fake it till you make it.

Read more about them on Marie Claire

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Beauty Secrets

In case you are not aware, she is the female lead (replacing Megan Fox) in last summer’s Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

First things first—those trademark lips! How do you care for them?
I use Lucas’ Papaw Ointment religiously, especially when trav­eling. I also like to use a lip scrub, but when I don’t have one, I just rub the edge of my towel to buff away dead skin after I wash my face. I genuinely don’t like a lot of bright color on my lips. They’re red anyway, so I keep them really natural.

What’s your off-duty routine?
I do my eyebrows every day—that’s my thing. I use a Laura Mercier brow powder and a little brush. I just fill them in and then stick them down with brow gel. It really changes my appearance and makes me look more awake.

You’ve modeled since you were 16. What’s the best tip you’ve picked up?
To mix products and use them for more than one thing. I don’t travel with a lot of makeup, so I keep the palette neutral. I carry brown eyeliner and bronzer and smudge them on the lid to create a shadow, or dab a little blush on my lips.

Any product MVPs on set?
My hairstylist used Klorane dry shampoo because I was really sweaty from running around. I also had to be very tan, so I used St. Tropez self-tanner once or twice a week—depending on how often Michael Bay thought I needed it.

Source : Elle

8 Ways to Make Your Skin-Care Products More Effective

1) Exfoliate first
- Get rid of dead cells which is a barrier preventing products to get into the skin
- Basic cleansers free up pores by removing dirt and oil, but to truly increase absorption, you'll need an enzyme– or acid–based cleanser or a grainy scrub with small, smooth particles,

Personally I exfoliate my skin twice a week, before piling on my facial masks. On a normal day, I use either a gentle cleanser or a cleanser with some grainy bits. My sensitive skin can suffer if I overdo it.

2) Go in order
- Whatever goes on first penetrates best, hence the most active ingredients should be applied first. If you're using two products for two different problems ( eg. zits, pigmentation ), apply one to bare skin in the morning and the other to bare skin at night so you're guaranteed 100 percent efficacy from both. After treatments are in place, smooth on other items in order of density, from thinnest (antioxidant serum) to thickest (sunscreen or night cream). The exception is retinoids, which could irritate those with sensitive skin if applied first.

3) Apply to just-washed skin
- Damp skin acts like a sponge, quickly absorbing whatever comes its way. (That's damp, not wet.) This rule applies to almost every product—even retinoids. The only exception? Mineral-based sunscreen. "It's not absorbed," says dermatologist David Bank. "It's designed to sit on the surface of the skin and reflect the sun's rays. On damp skin, mineral blocks tend to run, give uneven coverage, and look chalky."

4) Warm it up
- When you wash your face with lukewarm water instead of cold, you raise the skin's temperature slightly, causing blood vessels and pores to dilate in an effort to cool you down. "Space between the cells means there's a greater surface area for absorption, which helps product get in," says dermatologist Heidi Waldorf. Plus, ingredients move through skin and interact with cells more quickly when the skin is warm.

5) Top it off
- "One of the best ways to boost absorption is to top ingredients with heavy, occlusive ointments," says Waldorf. Thick ointments and creams with large amounts of petrolatum, natural butters, oils, and waxes make the best occlusive agents, says cosmetic chemist Jim Hammer.

6) Save retinoids for nighttime
- These line-fighting superheroes do their best work under cover of darkness, because both prescription and over-the-counter versions degrade and weaken in the sun.

Another distinct advantage night has over day: Skin temperature rises by about half a degree while we sleep, because more blood is shunted to the skin, away from internal organs. And with greater warmth and blood-vessel dilation comes better penetration. Says Bank, "Though it's not an enormous difference, your skin does absorb more overnight." This pertains to any ingredient you apply before bed, not just retinoids.

7) Try serums
You'll find the strongest dose of active ingredients in serums—not, say, cleansers. "A serum is a concentrated source of an active ingredient in a simple form that penetrates very quickly and completely, unhindered by lotion-type emollients that make it difficult for actives to sink in

8) Combine right
"Sunscreen and antioxidants were born to be married," says dermatologist Ranella Hirsch. As the former absorbs UV rays, the latter neutralizes the free radicals created by those rays before they can do damage. If your SPF doesn't include them, layer an antioxidant serum underneath.
Many antioxidants also complement peptides: "They bolster the skin's ability to protect and heal itself, allowing collagen-building peptides to work better," says Bank. Retinoids and hydroquinone are another dynamic duo—one typically prescribed for the dark splotches of melasma. "They get out pigment in different ways," says Waldorf. Other smart combos exist in the prescription realm—"benzoyl peroxide may enhance the bacteria-killing powers of the topical antibiotic clindamycin," Wechsler says—but this is a tricky topic, so talk to your dermatologist before mixing and matching.

Source : Allure

Review : Naruko Toner

I bought this trio set in Taiwan last year. However, in this review, it would be just the toner. I am also using the moisturiser in the above set which I would review soon. I still have a few Naruko products in queue but I usually refrain from opening new products when I have not used up my old ones.

I have to apologize for my poor Chinese interpretation from the toner description. But first up, here's a trival bit on Naruko though I think most of us would have been familiarize with his name now.
Naruko is a brand of afforable, paraben-free yet effective products formulated by Niu-er , who is a beauty king in his homeland, Taiwan. He takes great care of his own skin, spending on supplements, skincare products and face massages. You can read more about him here or here

This toner is not available for individual purchase, I believe, as I cannot seem to find this product anywhere.

Here's the back description

This toner is supposed to give you soft, supple skin with hydrating and whitening benefits. Please let me know, should I interpret it wrongly.

It has a rose-like fragrance that is soothing to the senses. The gap opening is just the right hole for the fluid to flow out seamlessly.

The clear liquid is lotion-like and refreshing after each cleansing. I did not experience any tingling sensation or breakouts throughout the 2 months of daily use. I found it mild and gentle for my sensitive skin but have yet to reap any visible improvements to my skin after 2 months.

Its great that this toner does not contain alcohol however it does contain the following 2 ingredients though they are not high on the list.

METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE (preservative) - associated with allergic reactions and neurotoxicity.
Read more about it on EWG and here, where Nuskin believed that its safe for consumer.

PHENOXYETHANOL (preservative) - irritation and organ system toxicity.
Read more about it on EWG and truthinaging

5 exercises to smooth facial lines and wrinkles

Here's an excellent article on how to smooth facial lines and wrinkles which I presume all, if not most of us would be interested.

Exercise 1: The Scowl-Line Banisher

Step 1
Take your two forefingers and place them one on each side of your scowl line. Pull your fingers gently apart if you need to smooth out the line.

Now pull your brows together, but make sure you are not making the line again (look in the mirror to make sure). You are just working those muscles. Hold for a count of ten.

Step 2
Now move your fingers apart so they rest in the middle of your forehead, approximately above the arch of each eyebrow. Now think about pulling your corrugators towards your fingers and your temples—you are counteracting the pulling-in movement with a pulling-out movement. Feel that vertical line being smoothed away.

Exercise 2: Palming  (soothe the eyes and the optic nerves, and help reduce puffiness)

Step 1:
Rub your palms together until they feel warm.

Step 2:
Cup palms over your closed eyes so that the heels of your hands are resting directly on your eyelids. Push gently against your eyes

Exercise 3: Upper lip smoothie

Place your forefingers on either side of your mouth corners to anchor the muscles. Stretch your top lip down and over your top teeth and towards your mouth corners at the same time. Your upper lip should be completely smooth, no puckers.

Hold for a count of five, then release. Repeat three times, holding for a count of ten each time.

Exercise 4: The Carp Curl

Step 1:
Place your two forefingers on either side above your mouth, along the nasal-labial folds. This anchors the area as you work on your orbicularis oris.
Without making lines in your upper lip (stretch it as in the upper lip smoothie above) stretch your top lip forward and up towards your nose.

Step 2:
Curl your lip up and out, as if you were a fish sucking in water. Curl it ten times, then relax, then curl it ten times more, this time a little faster

Exercise 5: Advanced Carp Curl

Step 1:
Place your forefingers on either side of the nasal-labial fold and curl your lip up towards your nose as in the previous exercise.

Step 2:
Now stretch your lip down over your teeth (as in the Upper Lip Smoothie).

Step 3:
Alternate the two movements so that you resemble a fish. Repeat 10 times. Relax.

Repeat this three times. Each time you do it, make the alternating movements a little more rapid, while trying to maintain a smooth rhythm. When you are done, relax. Wiggle your mouth around to relax the muscle (without making lines!)

Source : Mvblog

Review : Beauty Without Cruelty Eye Makeup Remover

Product Description
BWC Extra Gentle Eye Makeup Remover with an herbal extract and vegetable glycerin gently removes all types of make-up, including water-resistant, completely and easily without irritation.
Leaves no oily residue. Make-up can be re-applied immediately after use. Made with natural ingredients. No animal ingredients. 100% vegan, vegetarian. No synthetic or engineered fragrances. No animal testing.

Being my 1st eye make-up remover of  lesser chemical origins, I am curious on its performance. This is my first product from the brand, which I purchased from iHerb. I use an eye make-up remover everyday to cleanse the concealer remains and eyebrow markings at the end of each work day. Hence I needed something that is gentle enough without much tugging required. And this product met my simple needs effortlessly.

Beauty Without Cruelty (BWC in short) is famed for its cruelty-free products that are superior in performance with exceptional prices. Their color cosmetics are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, and are fragrance free and their nail colors are free of toluene, formaldehyde, and pthalates. You can read more about the brand here.

The product which I bought comes in a flip-top cap opening and the fluidity of the contents flows out easily.
On weekends with more eye make-up, this eye make-up remover do remove all my eye make-up, from mascara to eyeliner, and leave my eyes feeling clean and fresh without leaving any oily residue. However, it does sting slightly when it gets into the eyes accidentally.
Note that I don't use waterproof mascara and eyeliner so I won't be able to comment much on that.

However, Q-tip is still needed to remove my blue eyeliner marks from The Make-Up Store. That has always been my pet peeve.
It scored 3.7 from 27 users on Makeupalley .
In terms of ingredients, according to GoodGuide, it scored 4.9/10 with concerns on Cocamidopropyl Betaine (surfactant) and Phenoxyethanol (preservative). You can also read more about it here

Cocamidopropyl Betaine : Suspected of causing immunotoxicity and organ toxicity
Phenoxyethanol : Suspected of causing developmental toxicity and reproductive toxicity

Ingredients
Purified Water, Glycerine, Decyl Glucoside, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Ethyl Hexylglycerin

You can get it for US$7.19 from drugstore or US$5.73 from Vitacost or US$6.02 from iHerb. Quote OKI787 to get US$5 off your first purchase at iHerb.