Review : Christian Diorskin Nude Skin Glowing Makeup SPF 15

Product Description
A hydrating fluid foundation that delivers just the right amount of coverage to create a naturally flawless, bare-skin effect
Diorskin Nude boasts 100 percent natural active ingredients and an extended shade range to create a shine-free, natural glow without masking the skin's texture. With continued use, it improves the natural radiance and beauty of the skin day after day.

This formula is composed of a mineralized water enriched with an exclusive and natural floral water that offers hydration, radiance, and elasticity to the skin. Unlike most foundations that use opaque pigments and create a mask-like effect, Diorskin Nude Foundation uses exclusive Nude-Glow pigments that are translucent. They allow the skin's natural radiance and color to shine through, appearing luminous in any light.

I was given shade 20 in two 3ml sizes because they have run out of lighter shades. Despite the shade looking darker than my skin tone, it matches well to my skin tone, after the base shade 001 application.

Compared to the previous one I owned, this liquid foundation is much more runny with a lightweight creamy texture and provides a better hydrating ability. I prefer using this, together with the base, if I have dehydrated skin on that day so that the flakiness will not be so obvious. It neither sits on the dry patches nor clings on them.

I am so impressed with the pairing of this liquid foundation together with the base, that I may just run out to get the full retail size!

The formula is moisturizing and blends into the skin effortlessly, giving a barely there, but a dewy radiant look. It has a luminous sheer to medium coverage. Less is more, and will be best suited for those with lesser blemishes.

I usually applies my liquid foundation with my fingers and likes how it brightens up my overall complexion naturally without that "make-up" look. While it does not oxidise and is long-wearing but the oil-controlling ability is only moderately well. I need to dab on the oiliness near the wings of my nose, as I usually does by afternoon.

In terms of ingredients, it contains Titanium Dioxide at 4.35% and Octinoxate at 3% as its active ingredients to provide the SPF 15 protection which is too little, under our hot humid weather.
To top it off, it also contains a high amount of alcohol, as the 3rd ingredient in its list, which could potentially irritates skin, damages healthy collagen production, stimulates oil production at the base of the pore and making oily skin worse, according to Paula.

It scores 4.1 from 46 users on Makeupalley.

Ingredients :
AQUA (WATER), METHYL TRIMETHICONE, ALCOHOL, PHENYL TRIMETHICONE, PEG-9 POLYDIMETHYLSILOXYETHYL DIMETHICONE, ISODODECANE, ACRYLATES/DIMETHICONE COPOLYMER, DIPHENYL DIMETHICONE/VINYL DIPHENYL DIMETHICONE/SILSESQUIOXANE CROSS POLYLMER, ISODODECANE, DIMETHICONOL/METHYLSILANOL/SILICATE CROSS POLYMER, STEARIC ACID, MICA, PHENOXYETHANOL, SYNTHETIC FLUORPHLOGOPITE, ALUMINA, ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE, SODIUM MYRISTOYL GLUTAMATE, GLYCERYL UNDECYL DIMETHICONE, DISTEARDIMONIUM HETCTORITE, VP/VA COPOLYMER, SILICA SILYLATE, SILICA, PROPYLENE CARBONATE, PARFUM (FRAGRANCE), DIMETHICONE, BHT, DIMETHICONE/METHICONE COPOLYMER, SERICIN, LINALOOL, LIMONENE, BUTYLPHENYL METHYL PROPIONAL, GLYCERIN, HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA FLOWER EXTRACT, RHODOCHROSITE EXTRACT, MALVA SYLVESTRIS (MALLOW) EXTRACT, HYDROLYZED LINSEED EXTRACT, CITRONELLOL BALANITES, ROXBURGHI SEED OIL, CITRIC ACID, POTASSIUM SORBATE, SORBIC ACID, AJUGA TURKESTANICA EXTRACT.  [MAY CONTAIN: CI 77163 (BISMUTH OXYCHLORIDE), CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 (IRON OXIDES), CI 77891 (TITANIUM DIOXIDE).

Source : Sephora , Dailymed , Dior

Christian Dior Skin Refining Pro Lighting Makeup Base FPS 20 SPF PA+

 

Product Description
The 1st skin-refining makeup base by Dior that prepares the skin for foundation application, improves its hold and instantly illuminates the complexion, like the enhancing lighting of a professional photographer. The ideal complement to Diorskin foundations, Radiant Base helps assimilate their skincare ingredients: the skin is beautified and the makeup result is enhanced

I received 2 complimentary samples from the Dior counter when they were unable to fix the dispenser on its previous liquid foundation bottle. I was slightly miffed on that, because it is supposed to be of a better brand, compared to other liquid foundations I owned. I should be expecting higher quality, coming from Dior, but instead it failed on me.

001 Radiant Rose is the shade that the promoter picks for me to fit my tone.
Note that there are only 2 shades available.
- 001 rosy shade to enhance the radiance of the "blue" skin tones
- 002 golden shade for "yellow" skin tones

This make-up base contains "Halo Pearls", a combination of soft focus pigments and transparent pearly particles with the ability to evenly diffuse the light in all directions. Skin texture is touted to be instantly refined and imperfections are blurred. Facial features seem reshaped by interplays of shadow and light to reveal a complexion that flows with beauty.

From the swatch above, you can see that its a rosy pink shade that is light and sheer once applied to skin. It provides a subtle radiance to the skin and matches Dior liquid foundation very well. I am currently using its Nude Skin Glowing Make-up liquid foundation and really like the fresh look with a subtle glow.

There is a slight smooth silicon feel which made the skin smoother and silkier before one piles on the liquid foundation. Even though there is no patchiness after application but it has a moderate oil-control that is not worthy to mention about.

Active Ingredients : Titanium Dioxide 4.74% , Octinoxate 4%
Inactive Ingredients : Water, Methyl Trimethicone, Alcohol, Isododecane, Dimethicone, Mica

Stearic Acid, Aluminum Oxide, Silicon Dioxide, Aluminum Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Myristoyl Glutamate, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (2000 Cps At 1%), Propylene Carbonate

Edetate Sodium, Linalool (+ ), Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Citronellol

Ultramarine Blue, Bismuth Oxychloride, Ferric Oxide Red, Ferric Oxide Yellow, Ferrosoferric Oxide

 

Source : MedicationDaily , Dior

Review : My Beauty Diary 2-Step Africa Hydrating Pack

Product Description
My Beauty Diary 2-Step Africa Hydrating Pack is formulated with Africa's wild natural plant ingredients such as mango, Morocco myrtle, sea coconut, frankincense extract to grant you watery and nourished skin. With organic bamboo water from the mountains of Asia, it is rich in nutritional and moisturizing ingredients to deliver deep hydrating and defensive efficacy.

• 【Mango Moisturizing Mask】- Step 1
  
  Ingredients extracted from mango in Africa, it effectively penetrates deep into the skin to provide intense moisture and nourishment. Essence of Africa's sea coconut is soft and in rich milk fats to gently replenish skin with nutrition.
  
• 【Myrtle Rejuvenating Emulsion】- Step 2
  
  Carrying a burst of delicate and pleasant aroma, it has an amazing revitalizes capacity. It efficiently moisturizes dry, rough skin, leaving it moist, bright and tight. Milky rich texture instantly penetrates into skin to supply a watery yet non greasy hydration.

I requested a friend to help me purchase this in Taiwan last year. The illustration on the packaging is really kawaii but that's not the reason that made me buy it. It was new and I wanted to understand what the 2-step is all about. Being a fan of My Beauty Diary facial sheet masks, I was simply intrigued. Each box consists of 8 pieces of individually wrapped sheet masks.

Step 1 is simply the facial sheet mask which is made of a thin cotton fiber material. It is mango- scented but is hardly discernible once layered on the face. However it is very wet, so much so that it drips after layering on the face. I really dislike it since I don't usually lie down on the bed during my masking session. It hydrates the skin moderately well.

Step 2 is the emulsion. almost like a moisturizer to be used after the facial sheet mask session. It has a thick and milky white texture but not creamy or heavy.
However, because I am not used to having Step 2 in my masking routine, sometimes I just skip it and use it on another night.

The emulsion made my skin feels smooth and moisturized, with a plump and supple effect, compared to just using the mask alone.

Hairstyles For The Beautiful Bride

Tousled, messy yet sexy.

The end result :

Not restricted to just brides, I think it can be used as a weekend day look..

Yet another everyday wear look....

Read more from here.

Spring Magazine

Kinokuniya was selling this magazine at 30% off so I managed to snag it at $13.09, down from the original price of $18.90.
I like the pouch with the clasp and there is a travel sewing kit contained in it. The pouch is not as well-made as I thought it would be. But since its comes free with the magazine, I can't really complain much.

Review : Belif UV Protector Sunscreen Gel SPF 30 PA++

Product Description
UV Protector Daily sunscreen gel is for a daily use with a light and fresh touch like moisturizing essence. The gel-type sunblock protects your skin from UV rays and gives a whitening effect and glow on your face. It contains noni herb growing in the South Pacific anrchipelago of Polynesia and Hawaii. UV Protector Leports shaking sunscreen protects your sensitive skin from UV exposure.

The 2ml sample sachet which I received from Blackbox, enabled me to use for 3 times. This sunscreen gel being milky white in colour, looks greasy and heavy which is unlike the term "gel", however it turns out to be lightweight on skin and spreads easily. But it is slightly sticky and takes some time for it to be absorbed.

It does not contain mineral oil, synthetic fragrances, synthetic colors, synthetic preservatives and no animal-derived ingredients.

Ingredients:
Aqua, phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid, methyl methacrylate crosspolymer, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, cyclopentasiloxane, triethanolamine, hydrogenated lecithin, 1,2-hexanediol, glycerin, isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, dimethicone, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, panthenol, cetyl ethylhexanoate, pueraria mirifica (kwao krua) callus culture extract, portulaca oleracea (purslane) extract, poncirus trifoliata (bitter orange) fruit extract, avena sativa (oat) kernel extract, calendula officinalis (marigold) flower extract , nepeta cataria (catmip) extract, rubus idaeus (raspberry) leaf extract, baptisia tinctoria (wild indigo) root extract, stellaria media (chickweed) extract, hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel) extract, jasminum officinale (jasmine) extract, corchorus olitorius (jute) leaf extract, morinda citrifolia (noni) fruit extract, acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, atractyloides japonica root oil, glyceryl stearate, ceteareth-6 olivate, dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, behenyl alcohol, alanyl glutamine, tromethamine, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose stearoxy ether, PEG-10 rapeseed sterol, C14-28 alkyl acid, phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate, squalane, sclerotium gum, trisodium edta, sodium methyl stearoyl taurate, fragrance, citral, citronellol, limonene, geraniol, linalool..

Source : Belif , Napiers

Review : My Scheming Bamboo Charcoal & Cryste Marine Whitening Double Lifting Mask

Product Description
My Scheming Bamboo Charcoal and Cryste Marine Whitening Double Lifting Mask contains bamboo charcoal extract to hydrate, repair and brighten all types of skin. Tea tree and allantoin help tighten pores. It leaves skin brighter and smoother.
The 3D elastic mask fabric, imported from Japan, is imprinted with over 600 elastic, rhombus-shaped grids to provide the face and the neck a comprehensive lifting.

Key Ingredients :

• 【Bamboo Charcoal Extract】activates cells and boosts blood circulation, and acts as absorbent.
• 【Melaleuca Alternifolia】has antiseptic, anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, healing and anti-mould virtues.
• 【Chamomile Extract】has anti-inflammatory, itching-relieving, disinfecting and allergy-alleviating virtues.
• 【Cucumber Extract】has hydrating, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing and calming virtues.
• 【Water Lily】has astringent, antiseptic, wound-healing and antioxidant virtues, captures free radicals, calms, etc.
• 【Glyoxyldiureide】has anti-inflammatory and soothing virtues, and aids in the regeneration of skin tissues.

My mum purchased a box of these facial sheet masks during her last trip to Taiwan and I have been using it once a week, whenever I visit her.
This is a 3D mask, meaning you have flaps that hook up to the ears - one from the face and one from the jaws. However, the flaps are pretty short as well as being small, so it was a brief struggle to have it pull up to hook it behind the ears. Perhaps it was meant to be this way, to give a proper lift. Perhaps I have a too large face and too tiny ears. Still, I never really like 3D masks. Period.

The material is thick and as described above, it is imprinted with grids ( soft and slightly quilted feel ), supposingly to give a lifted effect. With an artifical scent which I do not quite fancied, it is totally soaked with essence and provides much moisture to the skin. It brightens up the face too.

Despite all the benefits claimed, I may not be able to reap all of them significantly since I only use it once a week. But I do not see a visible improvement in my skin, other than the hydrating and brightening abilities, which I can also derive from My Beauty Diary masks with better lasting results.

Source : Sasa

Review : Belif Creamy Cleansing Foam Moist

Product Description
Formulated with Soapwort, Sweet Flag and Wormwood to remove toxins, this cleansing foam produces clean skin without dryness after washing.

Key Ingredients :
Soapwort : rich with vitamin C and natural foaming agents, cleanses the skin gently.
Sweet Flag : Known to make hair and skin beautiful, silky and smooth.    
Wormwood : possesses breakout-prevention properties and excels at removing toxins

I owned a 3ml sachet which enabled to use it for 3 times, however I only use it once and delegate the remaining contents for cleansing my brushes.
Even before using the cleanser, the word " foam" already tells me that it would be drying to my combination -dehydrated skin even though its said to be formulated for normal, combination and dry skin types.

It has a lovely herbal earthy scent that is soothing to the senses. The creamy texture provides much foam that would be suitable for those with oily skin. My hands felt dry after cleansing and my skin feels slightly taut.

Belif products do not contain Mineral Oil, Synthetic Fragrance, Synthetic Dye, Synthetic Preservatives or Animal-Origin Ingredients

Ingredients :
Myristic acid, glycerine, aqua, butylene glycol, stearic acid, potassium hydroxide, glycol, distearate, glyceryl stearate, peg-100 stearate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, peg-40 hydrogenated castor oil, hydrogenated polydecene, avena sativa kernel extract, calendula officinalis flower extract, nepeta cataria extract, rubus idaeus leaf extract, baptisia tinctoria root extract, stellaria media extract, saponaria officinalis leaf extract & sapindus mukurossi fruit extract & benincasa cerifera seed extract and acorus calamus root extract, artemisia princeps leaf powder, citrus aurantifolia peel oil expressed, rosmarinus officinalis leaf oil, citrus aurantium dulcis oil, geranium maculatum oil, tocopheryl acetate, polyquaternium-7, 1, 2-hexanediol caprylyl glycol, trisodium edta, citronellol, limonene

Source : Napiers

Review : Naruko Narcissus Defense BB Sunscreen SPF50

Product Description
NARUKO Narcissus Total Defense BB Sunscreen SPF50 is lightweight coverage and sunscreen in one. It protects your skin for UV rays while concealing dull, uneven skin tone. The BB Cream properties of the BB Sunscreen not only covers but also controls oil, moisturizes, whitens, and firms the skin. Skin is confident and healthy looking with a natural glow. This gentle, ecofriendly product is made without parabens, preservatives, artificial ingredients or coloring. The product is cruelty free and is not tested on animals.

I received a 10ml sample as a complimentary gift with my Naruko purchases some time back. I have been wanting to try Naruko's BB cream and this was an excellent opportunity to try it out.

Daily sunscreen is essential in everyone's skincare regime and I tend to use BB cream, right after  sunscreen application because as I have mentioned before, the layering for BB cream on our skin is definitely too little to be considered as adequate protection.
In this case, I considered this BB suncreen as a typical BB cream just because its tinted.
It comes in 1 shade and it matches my skin tone well.

According to the product description, this product uses a state of art sun shield - Suncat to provide SPF50 sun protection. It is also said to be a colour diffuser to even out skin tone and leaving it flawless all day long, hence it can help to conceal, treat and protect.

This BB sunscreen has a lightweight but creamy and emollient texture that spreads easily and evens out the skin tone slightly. However, it does not provide much coverage and is useless on blemishes and redness.
Even though it contains SPF 50, it is non-greasy and dries to a semi-matt finishing. It has a light lavender scent which dissipates after a short while.

Oil control is moderate as there is no difference in the level of oiliness with or without this product. My T-zone still gets oily by mid day. It does not leave any white cast.

It uses the following sunscreen ingredients :

Zinc Oxide
Zinc Oxide offers broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB (source). It is one of the most broadly effective, established and safe sun blocking ingredients available. Its major disadvantage is unsightly whitish tint it creates.
No single sun blocking ingredient can provide complete, broad protection alone. In that respect, zinc oxide is arguably closer to the ideal than most others. Still, when used alone, it is insufficient if high SPF (UVB protection measure) is required. Hence, in commercial sunscreens, zinc oxide is usually combined with chemical UVB blockers. Sometimes it is also combined with other physical (titanium dioxide) and/or chemical UVA blockers.

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Maximum recommended by FDA: 7.5%) :
Often listed on sunscreen products as Octinoxate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (also called Octyl Methoxycinnamate) is used in products that are applied to the skin to absorb, reflect or scatter UV rays; it protects the skin from sunburn and other damaging effects of the sun. Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate also protects cosmetics and personal care products from deterioration caused by UV rays and allows them to last longer in high UV conditions.

It is a chemical sun blocking agent that absorbs ultraviolet radiation in UVB range.
However, when Octinoxate is exposed to sunlight, "it is converted into a less UV absorbent form hence it is not very stable. This conversion can be partly prevented by certain other UV blockers, particularly bemotrizinol (Tinosorb M).
Note that if Octinoxate combined with Avobenzone, it degrades even faster.

According to the EWG, Octinoxate is a moderate hazard, primarily because it can lead to developmental and reproductive toxicity through enhanced skin absorption. It can produce estrogen-like effects and should not be used by pregnant women and children.

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane :In the United States, when this ingredient is used in sun protection products, it will be listed on the label as Avobenzone. Avobenzone, when applied to the skin, absorbs UV rays. In addition to causing sunburn, UV radiation is a significant cause of premature aging of the skin and contributes to the development of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer.

According to this source, tests have revealed Avobenzone’s tendency to significantly degrade in light over time, lessening its sun protection capabilities. For this reason, most sunscreens containing the ingredient also include photo-stabilizing ingredients like octocrylene.
Avobenzone appears to be relatively non-toxic and non-irritating to the skin. However, because it is often used in conjunction with photo-stabilizers, there is a greater risk for skin irritation and low-level toxicity. Furthermore, some studies have demonstrated it to be absorbed by the body and secreted into urine, and is therefore not recommended to use on children or pregnant women

In this link, the writer mentioned that though this ingredient may be a somewhat more safe product than oxybenzone but after it has been on the skin for a period of time, it could actually lead to increased reactive oxygen series (free radical damage) from what has penetrated a little deeper into the skin.

Benzophenone-3 (Maximum recommended by FDA: 6%) :
Benzophenone-3 which is also known as Oxybenzone has a high hazard of 7 according to EWG, which is a sunscreen ingredient associated with photoallergic reactions as it absorbs through the skin in significant amounts.
Acting primarily as a photostabilizer and sunscreen, it is classified as a "chemical" sunscreen agent which is inadequate when used alone. Benzophenone-3 absorbs UVB and short UVA rays but is a relatively weak chemical UV absorber. By absorbing UV rays, it also helps preserve the integrity of other cosmetic ingredients, preventing their deterioration under the sun.
It has been shown that the product penetrate the skin and cause photo-sensitivity. As a photocarcinogen, it has demonstrated an increase in the production of harmful free radicals and an ability to attack DNA cells.
The FDA has approved the use of Oxybenzone as a safe and effective OTC sunscreen ingredient, but only in concentrations up to 6%

Alternatively, you can read more on what CNN says about toxic ingredients in sunscreen.

Source : Naruko , Amazon , Cosdna

Review : Shiseido Super Mild Shampoo and Conditioner

Shampoo Product Description
A gentle shampoo with a mild fragrance, protects your hair with Vitamin E with a rich creamy lather. For you, an ahhhh-mazingly clean scent and a pump bottle. Keep it in the shower, use it every day for Happy, Healthy Hair!

Benefits :
- Double super moist vitamin E protects your hair from dryness and friction.
- Protection AMT prevents nutrients in the hair to flow out while washing.
- The creamy lather gently washes hair, leaving it smooth and silky.
- Clean, mild fragrance makes it perfect for men and women.

Conditioner Description
A gentle conditioner with a mild fragrance, protects your hair with Vitamin E with a rich creamy lather. For you, an ahhhh-mazingly scent and a pump bottle. Keep it in the shower, use it every day for Happy, Healthy Hair!

Benefits :
Double super moist vitamin E protects your hair from dryness and friction.
Cuticle protector locks in important nutrients in the hair.
Clean, mild fragrance makes it perfect for men and women.

I picked the trial sized products of 50ml each during my last Hainan Island trip.
Slightly lighter in texture than Shiseido Aquair Deep Moist Hair Shampoo, the shampoo foams well with lots of lathering to boot and the name of the shampoo definitely fits its description as my hair turned greasy within a day.

I have an oily scalp and this pair of products do not fit my hair needs. I need to use it twice a day, once in the morning and once before I sleep and still, my hair turns greasy by early evening. Its just too mild for an oily scalp like mine.

The conditioner is lightweight but creamy in texture. It does not make a difference to conditioning my hair, as I did not experience significant benefits in adding the conditioner to my hair regime.

Both the shampoo and conditioner did not make my hair softer or more moisturised than normal. Its just a medicore performance, as far as my hair is concerned.

The shampoo scored 4.8 from 25 users on Makeupalley.
The conditioner scored 4.6 from 25 users on Makeupalley.

Shampoo Ingredients :
Water, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, sodium laureth sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, peg-2 laurate, glycol distearate, sodium chloride, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, polyquaternium-10, taurine, hydrolyzed oat grass protein, triticum vulgare (wheat) germ oil, dipropylene glycol, citric acid, sodium edta, butylene glycol, sodium benzoate, phenoxyethanol, fragrance.

Conditioner Ingredients :
Ingredients: Water, isopentyldiol, dimethicone, behenyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, ethylhexyl palmitate , sorbitol, steartrimonium chloride, amodimethicone, peg-90m, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, cetyl alcohol, dipropylene glycol, isoceteth-10, citric acid, butylene glycol, isopropyl alcohol, sodium bicarbonate, hydrated silica, bht, phenoxyethanol, fragrance

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Review : LoveMore X My Melody Lily & Crystal Marine Extra White Mask

Product Description
Rich minerals and salts such as Vitamin C and E, Magnesium, Zinc and Potassium in Crystal Marine help fight against aging while Lily extract help calm your skin.

Key Benefits :
Nourishing, Softening, Whitening

Made of thin but sturdy material, the material is comfortable and the cutting fits my face contour pretty well, except that it has a shorter nose flap than norm. I hate the musty scent though, and is uncertain where it comes from.

I am surprised by its efficacy. It made my skin soft, supple and smooth to the touch immediately after removing it. My skin also appeared to be brighter.

Source : Sunnanz

Review : Crabtree and Evelyn Rosewater, Lily Of The Valley Bath and Shower Gel

Product Description
Crabtree and Evelyn Rosewater Bath and Shower Gel contains extracts of Peony, White Magnolia and Elder Flower, Rosa Centifolia Flower Water and Glycerine to leave skin cleansed, conditioned and wonderfully scented. Free of parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol and mineral oil.

The last 50ml shower gel from my Crabtree and Evelyn travel pack, this rosewater shower gel is my favourite of the lot. Not all rose scented products are lovely but this shower gel is just fabulous without being over the top. It is calming and relaxing.

It lathers gently with suds and although it contains SLS as its 2nd ingredient, it did not leave my skin drying. It is decent and cleanses like all regular shower gels. The only winning point is its scent.

It scored 4.2 from 16 users on Makeupalley.

Product Description
Crabtree & Evelyn Lily Of The Valley Bath and Shower Gel contains extracts of Peony, White Magnolia, and Elder Flower and glycerine to leave skin cleansed, conditioned and wonderfully scented. Free of parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, and mineral oil.

Crabtree and Evelyn shower gel products contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate so it may leave the skin drying after a long period of usage or immediately after usage.

However, so far, I have not experienced any adverse reactions to their shower gels. No drying after-feel.

Retailing for $35, this shower gel smells lovely without being overpowering. There are light lathering suds due to the inclusion of Sodium Laureth Sulfate. I got mine in the miniature size which I purchased during a Christmas sale.

Ingredients :
Water (Aqua)(Eau). Sodium Laureth Sulfate. Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate. Cocamide Dea. Cocamidopropyl Betaine. Fragrance (Parfum). Disodium Edta. Benzophenone-4. Citric Acid. Sodium Chloride. Hexyl Cinnamal. Citronellol. Butylphenyl Methylpropional. Linalool. Geraniol. Benzyl Benzoate. Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde. Phenoxyethanol. Methylparaben. Ethylparaben. Propylparaben. Butylparaben. Isobutylparaben. Yellow 5 (Ci 19140). Green 5 (Ci 61570). Red 4 (Ci 14700)

Review : Garden of Wisdom Matcha Green Tea HA Serum

Product Description
Rich in Antioxidants and Chlorophyll, matcha is shade grown--a process which increases the chlorophyll content in the leaves. Chlorophyll helps to release heavy metals and chemical toxins from the skin. This serum is made from the youngest, tenderest leaves, which contain the highest levels of
amino acids. Matcha green tea contains catechins that are potent antioxidants that prevent free radical activity. This serum also boasts antimicrobial characteristics, and helps to promote circulation. Great for all skin types.

Hyaluronic acid is a famous active known for its ability to hold over 1,000 times its weight in water. This ability makes it one of the best hydrators a person could turn to. Hyaluronic acid also protects skin, while allowing it to breathe. It causes skin to appear more plump, fills in fine lines,
and dries quickly without leaving a sticky residue on the skin.

Combining 2 of the best ingredients for the skin, this HA serum has a slight sticky base which gets absorbed into the skin within a few minutes.
On optimal skin condition, this serum helps to maintain the hydration level well, leaving my skin flake-free. On dehydrated skin, this serum is not hydrating enough to improve the flaky condition.

I like that it contains anti-oxidant benefits in this tiny bottle for daily maintenance but its not so perfect in emergency cases when I needed to quench the thirst on parched skin.
It comes in a squeeze nozzle that dispenses the gel-like contents easily and I used it up in less than 3 months, with a daily usage in the morning, just before my moisturiser.

List of Ingredients

Distilled Water
- hydrating
- solvent
Matcha Green Tea
- antioxidant
- stimulates circulation
- healing
- decreases swelling
Hyaluronic Acid 1% (bio-engineered source)
- hydrates skin
- can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water
Optiphen
- broad spectrum, paraben free preservative (does not release formaldehyde)

Source : GoW

Review : Jurlique Eye Makeup Remover

Product Description
A moisture-based cream that safely, gently and effectively removes eye makeup and impurities without irritation. Skin is left feeling soothed and refreshed with no oily residue. Ophthalmologist-tested.

The Benefits:

• Gentle emulsion to effectively remove eye makeup and impurities around the eye area.
• Moisturizes and softens delicate skin around the eye.

Key Ingredients:

• Jojoba Oil provides protection and hydration while gently cleansing the eye of makeup.
• Sunflower Seed Oil helps smooth and moisturize delicate skin around the eye.
• Echinacea, Dandelion and Calendula help to protect and soothe this fragile skin.

I picked this up from Feelunique, only to realize, to my dismay that the expiry date is pretty close, which probably explained why its on promotion. I detest the fact that the online shop have not been forthcoming in stating the near-expiry dates on their sites, unlike Strawberrynet or Iherb.

Made in Australia, this handy tube at 40ml comes with a twist and turn cap and a pliable body tube that makes squeezing a breeze, though its probably not the prettiest sight.

The white creamy texture meant, I need to use my fingers to spread the contents on the cotton pads before I used it over my eyes, to reduce the chances of excess cream getting into my eyes.
While it has a light floral scent and the name implies that its gentle for the delicate eye, I felt that it has a minty and cooling touch and it stings the eyes with a warm but mild sensation.

Personally I do not like using cream-based products near the eyes as it has the tendency to get into my eyes and irritates it. This eye makeup remover was slightly better than my regular eye make-up remover where it did remove slightly more eyeliner and mascacra remnants, but a Q-tip still works the best. However I dislike the irritating warm and minty sensation on the eye area. My eyes did not turn red though.

It also leave a light milky film on the eyes area which meant that I needed to do a final water rinse before it feels completely clean.

It scored a miserable 2.2 from 10 users on Makeupalley.

Ingredients :
Aqua (Water)/Eau; Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil; Glycerin; Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil; Glyceryl Stearate Citrate; Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate; Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil; Glycine soja (Soybean) Oil; Calendula officinalis Flower Extract; Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract; Echinacea purpurea Extract; Spilanthes acmella Flower Extract;
Viola odorata Extract; Viola tricolor Extract; Trifolium pratense (Clover) Flower Extract; Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) Root; Usnea barbata (Lichen) Extract; Bellis perennis (Daisy) Flower Extract;
Stellaria media (Chickweed) Extract; Prunella vulgaris Leaf Extract; Arctium lappa Root Extract; Totarol; Ethylhexylglycerin; SD Alcohol 40-A (Alcohol Denat.); Phenoxyethanol; Fragrance/Parfum*
* From Natural Essential Oil

Source : Jurlique

Review : Nip + Fab Cellulite Fix Body Sculpting Gel

Product Description
An ultra-fresh gel for fast + action on the appearance of cellulite with powerful cell active® shape.

Cellulite Fix contains:
•cell active® shape sculpts + reduces the appearance of cellulite
•indian forskolin skin appears firm + lifted
•caffeine improves skin tone + texture

Application
•Apply on clean skin in straight upwards strokes, focusing on legs + arms.
•For best results use twice daily.
•For express results, try dry brushing skin before use, to increase
stimulation and exfoliate any dead skin cells on the surface of the skin.
•Pay particular attention to problem areas, massage will help the product
to absorb and begin working instantly.

After hearing good things about this newly launched brand Nip + Fab, I decided to try out their affordable sculpting gel, purchased from the local Watsons.

Packaged in a tube form, this clear gel with a glooey-like texture gets absorbed into the skin super fast. I usually use it on my hips and thighs where cellulite loves to make them its home.

Unlike cream-based products, there is a slight difficulty in massaging this fast action thick gel onto my skin, as it gets absorbed within minutes. I basically have to use quick upwards strokes before it dries to nothing.
Because of its quick drying formula, it meant that it can be conveniently used in the morning before work, so that one does not have to worry about staining your work clothes. Most of the creams out there take ages to dry up so I usually have to use them at night.

I can't say I have seen a remarkable improvement to the dimples and orange-peel skin but the area feels smoother till the next wash.

How about getting the following products to minimize cellulite?
Scala Cellulite Massager and Remover Brush Mitt
Dry Skin Body Brush
Anti Cellulite Treatment Massage Oil
Botanic Hearth Anti Cellulite Treatment Massage Oil

Source : NipandFab

IHerb Haul + Beauty Haul

Bioderma Sensibo H20  $23.90 ( after 20% discount )
Free Bioderma samples : Pore Refiner Serum, Eye Contour Gel, Light Cream
Estee Lauder Nutritious Lotion ( free redemption )

 

My small haul from Iherb. Quote OKI787 to get $10 off $40 for first time purchase.

 

- Giovanni Moisturizing Body Wash US$7.65

- Giovanni Hot Chocolate Sugar Scrub US$8.53

- Weleda Birch Cellulite Oil US$20.74

- Madre Bees Cocoa Butter Lip Balm ( free )

- Real Techniques Core Collection Brushes US$14.39 (after 20% discount)

 

L'Oreal Sulphate free Colour Care Shampoo $11.92 ( after 20% off )
L'Oreal Sulphate free Colour Care Conditioner $12.32 ( after 20% off )

Sukin Purifying Body Scrub $13 ( after 20% off )

Combos Skin Q10 Lifting Eye Mask ( Buy 2 get 1 free, from Sasa - $7.80 for all 3)

Combos Skin Collagen Anti-Aging Eye Mask

Combos Skin HA Soothing Eye Mask  

 

A little haul from Robinsons Sale at the Expo

L'Oreal White Perfect Instant Radiance Booster Mask $19.14 ( original $29.90)
L'Oreal Double Extenstion Curl Mascara $17.86 ( original $27.90 )
Maybelline Long Extreme Double Stretch Mascara $12.10 ( original $18.90 )
Nivea Facial Cleansing Wipes ( free redemption from its facebook page )

 

 

Review : Odbo Ginseng Mask

Product Description
This strengthening mask pack contains Ginseng, Collagen and Coenzyme Q10 which helps to firm up and improves the elasticity of the skin texture. With Ginseng being a famous product in Korea, this mask is full of Ginseng essence to improve dull and loose skin.

I was gifted with a sheet of this ginseng mask from a colleague who visited Korea. The heavy-scented Ginseng scent is apparent during the masking session but its nothing offensive.

The sheet is thin but comfortable, with small cut-outs for the eyes, nose and lips. The nose cut-out is so small that it probably fits those with cute button noses.
Even though the mask is soaked with essence, there is no dripping mess and adheres well on my skin, without any messiness.

I use it on freshly exfoliated skin and this mask left my skin feeling hydrated, smoother and softer.

Ingredients:
Imidazolidinyl urea, Methylparaben, Sodium citrate,
Panax ginseng root extract: 6mg, Collagen: 0.6mg, Coenzyme-Q10: 0.9mg