Review : L'oreal Everpure Sulfate-Free Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner

Shampoo Product Description
Color-treated hair requires special care. EverPure’s extra-gentle, sulfate-free formula won’t strip color and leaves hair hydrated, manageable and silky soft. This richly lathering shampoo is infused with refreshing rosemary and juniper for an invigorating aromatic experience.

Conditioner Product Description
Color-treated hair requires special care. EverPure’s rich, protective conditioner preserves color purity while leaving hair soft, silky and manageable. The extra-gentle formula is infused with rosemary and mint for an invigorating, aromatic experience.

I had a colouring job done 2 months ago and picked up both products at the local Watsons, hoping that the colour will last longer.

Made of pliable materials, the tubes can be messy and slippery at times. I dislike the shampoo being placed down with the opening facing down as it meant that the cap is filled with the shampoo contents remnants after each usage since the shampoo is of a more runny texture than the creamy conditioner.

The rosemary and juniper scent smells nice on the hair and the shampoo provides a good lathering experience. The conditioner provides a minty feel on the hair and gives it a softer and smoother texture to the hair, compared to just using the shampoo alone.

I used both products 2 days after the colouring job. For the first 2 weeks, it kept the colours vibrant and shiny. Thereafter, it helps to maintain the colour. A month later, my hair roots start to show the signs of my original hair colour.
One month is the usual time frame to see my original hair colour the when I don't use any hair colouring hair products to maintain it.

The shampoo scored 3.3 from 178 users on Makeupalley.
The conditioner scored 3.3 from 98 users on Makeupalley.

Shampoo Ingredients :
Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycol Distearate, Glycereth 26, Decyl Glucoside, Parfum/Fragrance, PPG 5 Ceteth 20, Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer, Amodimethicone, Polyquaternium 7, Polyquaternium 10, Methylparaben, PEG 55 Propylene Glycol Oceate, Propylene Glycol, Carbomer, C11 15 Pareth 7, Benzophenone 3, Benzyl Salicylate, Hexyl Cinnamal, Glycerin, Trideceth 12, Laureth 9, Linalool, Tocopherol, Limonene, C12 13 Pareth 23, C12 13 Pareth 3, Benzyl Alcohol, Juniperus Communis Fruit Oil, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Rosmarinus Officinalis Oil (Rosemary), Methylisothiazolinone, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid

Conditioner Ingredients :
Aqua/Water/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Behentrimonium Chloride, Cetyl Esters, Isopropyl Myristate, Quaternium 80, Polysorbate 20, Parfum/Fragrance, Methylparaben, Camphor Benzalkonium Methosulfate, Polyquaternium 37, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Benzophenone 3, Mentha Piperita Leaf Extract (Peppermint), Tocopherol, Limonene, Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride, PPG 1 Trideceth 6, Linalool, Rosmarinus Officinalis Oil (Rosemary), Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citronellol

Source : Loreal

Review : Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser

Product Description
Our award-winning daily facial skin cleanser is formulated to gently cleanse, tone and melt away all face and eye makeup in one simple step, while lightly hydrating the skin.

features and benefits

• deep cleans pores and eliminates makeup build-up
• natural oil extracts help condition skin
• fragrance-free formula

This is my first foray into the brand, after hearing good things from a good friend of mine. I have been using their moisturizer for a while now, but have yet to review it. This cleanser is a 6ml sachet which I gotten from the Tangs counter while my friend was purchasing their products.

I have been wondering about their products for some time, with their interesting names and award-winning products. This cleanser is one of their award-winning product so it made sense for me to get a sample of it. I was dismayed to read that it is a foaming gel. My skin does not take well to any foaming products.

I used it for a week before deciding that its not for me. With a gel texture, it foams slightly and seemed to provide a light cleansing to the skin without any initial irritation at first. With subsequent usage, I noticed that the broken capillaries on the wings of my nose were getting redder and its definitely a bad sign to my sensitive skin and I decided to stop it from further damage.
My skin seemed to be flaking as well, after days of usage and it is probably drying out my skin.

Key Ingredients :
Sodium Lauroamphoacetate: Acts as a mild surfactant that gently cleanses the skin without irritation or residue.
Meadowfoam Seed Oil: Lightly hydrates the skin leaving the skin comfortable, not pulled or tight.
Sodium Trideceth Sulfate: Pulls dirt, debris, and makeup from the skin and dissolves them.
Twelve-Essential Oil Blend (Including Rosewood, Sandalwood, Sage): Helps soften, soothe, and rejuvenate the skin.
This is what Paula's take and it certainly sounds bad.
"This cleanser is overloaded with irritating ingredients. The fact that it is listed as “Best of Sephora” merely means that lots of Sephora customers are using a cleanser that is hurting their skin. Fragrant oils are abundant in this cleanser, and all of them contain volatile components that are irritating to skin. Philosophy also included black pepper extract, just in case the fragrant oils weren’t irritating enough. Those of you who use this cleanser may not see the irritation it causes because most of the irritation is taking place under the skin, where collagen is being damaged and free-radical damage is being generated, but it is happening nonetheless. For the health of your skin and your beauty budget, please consider switching to a truly gentle water-soluble cleanser."

It scored 3.7 from an astounding 2287 users on Makeupalley.

Ingredients :
Water, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Trideceth Sulfate, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Coco-Glucoside, Coconut Alcohol, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Aniba Rosaeodora (Rosewood) Wood Oil, Geranium Maculatum Oil, Guaiac (Guaiacum Officinale) Extract, Cymbopogon Martini Oil, Rosa Damascena Extract, Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Oil, Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Piper Nigrum (Pepper) Seed Extract, Polysorbate 20, Glycerin, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Yellow 5 (Ci 19140).

Review: Bifesta Cleansing Lotion Sebum

Product Description
3-in-1 lotion that removes make-up, cleanses and moisturizes without the need for additional rinsing. Water base, gentle but powerful makeup remover.

I came across their range of products 3 years ago, when it was first known as Mandom Beauty. I am not sure if their formula have changed since then but their Express Moist works well for me, but not their cleansing sheets - Bright Up and Express Moist.

I redeemed this 30ml Sebum Cleansing Lotion from their facebook page some time back. Meant for combination and oily skin, it supposingly helps to tighten pores with their green tea extract.

I can't sniff any green tea scent in the product itself though and its not heavily-fragranced which is a bonus. I am unsure if this product can be used on the eyes as its not mentioned on the bottle and packaging but since the brand also sells eye make-up remover, I think it make sense that this product probably only remove face make-up.

The texture is as light as water and when I paired it up with cotton pads, I felt that I need to pour out more to soak the pads, as compared to Bioderma make-up removers. It is gentle and while it removes make-up in a jiffy, it feels too mild on my skin.
I did not experience any difference in the level of oiliness on my T-zone though my skin feels just a tad tight after using this cleansing lotion and my regular make-up remover.

With this cleansing lotion, you can do away with your regular cleanser, or so they claim. I don't do that because I prefer double cleansing for a thorough job.
In comparison, Bioderma still remains my favourite brand for make-up removers.

Mini Iherb Haul + Eye Masks + Naruko JB Haul

Reviva Labs Elastin and Collagen Body Firming Lotion US$6.48
Acure Organics Cell Stimulating Body Wash US$8.62
EO Blue Chamomile with Lavender Bubble Bath US$8.05
Honeybee Gardens Nail Polish Remover US$7.02
Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap in Hemp Lavender US$6.39
Free Sierra Pomegranate Beeswax Lipbalm
Morningstar Derma Boost Rejuvenating Spray Mist US$11.99

Kao Hot Steam Eye Mask (Lavender-Sage) HKD36.90
Kao Hot Steam Eye Mask (Fully Ripe Citrus) HKD36.90
Kao Hot Steam Eye Mask (Chamomile-Ginger) HKD36.90

My Simply Bye Bye Wrinkles Collagen Eye Mask
My Scheming Beauty Crystal Hydrating Eye Mask
My Scheming Beauty Crystal Wrinkle Treatment Eye Mask
My Scheming Beauty Crystal Whitening Brightening Eye Mask

Sulwhasoo Basic Kit II ( US$24 from Cosme-de, not featured )
Naruko Raw Job's Tears Trial Set ( RM$27.30 )
Naruko Cotton Pads ( RM$8 each )
Estee Lauder Nutritious Lotion ( free redemption )
Laneige BB Cushion Cream ( free redemption )

Review : Weleda Birch Cellulite Oil

Product Description
This fine oil from extracts of young organic birch leaves, organic rosemary and ruskus promotes skin's healthy balance for radiant, firmer-looking skin. Regular use visibly tones and smoothes the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Revitalizing apricot kernel oil and vitamin-packed wheat germ oil help to enliven the skin's appearance.

How to use
Apply a small amount of Birch Cellulite Oil to damp skin. During the first four weeks of use, Birch Cellulite Oil should be massaged into the skin with circular movements, at least twice a day. For ongoing maintenance, continue with the daily application of this body oil.

After reading good reviews on Iherb, I decided to pick this up for some toning and cellulite-busting on my thighs. Touted to improve skin tone and appearance, cellulite is supposed to get visibly toned down after just one month of usage with this revitalizing oil

Review : Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Smoothing Treatment with 5% AHA

Product Description
Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Smoothing Treatment with 5% Alpha Hydroxy Acid is a must-have exfoliant for those who want their skin to look and act younger. It features an effective concentration of glycolic acid with a boost of pore-penetrating salicylic acid. This anti-aging exfoliant reveals youthfully radiant skin and counteracts sun damage—without redness or irritation! The innovative daily-use formula continually renews your skin's texture, evens skin tone, smoothes fine lines, and stimulates healthy collagen production via exfoliation and by delivering a potent blend of antioxidants that help fight free-radical damage.
Fragrance- and colorant-free, this silky treatment doubles as a lightweight moisturizer and is recommended as an integral part of the Paula's Choice RESIST line. This AHA exfoliant has a pH range of 3.5-3.8.

Who is this product for?
RESIST Daily Smoothing Treatment with 5% Alpha Hydroxy Acid can be used by all skin types and is ideal for anyone concerned with preventing and reducing the signs of aging, including sun damage, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and wrinkles.

Key Benefits :
- 5% glycolic acid plus 0.5% salicylic acid exfoliates sun-damaged skin
- pH range of 3.5–3.8 for guaranteed efficacy
- Reduces signs of aging, including wrinkles, sun damage, and discolorations
- Corrects uneven skin tone
- Restores a healthy, radiant, firmer look to your skin
- Calms your skin with potent anti-irritants
- Contains ingredients your skin needs to look and act younger

The 1.77ml sample that I purchased as part of the travel kit served has been part of my recent night regime. It lasts me for about 5 to 6 usages and it has been a wonderful companion so far. I see the effect almost instantly and really love how glowing my skin is.

Having sensitive skin for the most part of my life, I am pretty selective on skincare products. I am not the best ingredient "reader" as I still have lots of reading-up to do, where ingredients are concerned but I do steer clear of AHA based products because I believe its abrasive to my delicate skin.

Many years ago, I have tried AHA-based Nuskin products, as recommended by their "promoter" who has used a skin analyzer machine on me. Despite warning bells ringing in my head, I still went ahead to purchase it and tried it. As expected, it made my skin terrible, red and raw. It hurts me to see such unscrupulous people going around damaging people's skin, especially for those who have no inklings on ingredients at all.

Along the way, beauticians have been trying to promote their "diamond-peel" packages to me. My regular beautician regularly upgrades herself on skincare maintenance and technology. I believed her half-heartedly and went ahead to try it at $200 per session. Needless to say, it was just a waste of my money. My skin was smooth immediately after the treatment but was severely dehydrated thereafter.
So I grew up. I learnt. I steer clear of AHA based products.

Hence when I saw this sachet in the travel kit, I was dismayed and almost fearful. I wondered for the longest time if I should try it. However, seeing how my skin is dull, tired and rough recently, I thought perhaps I should try with a moderate amount and see how it goes.

As AHA-based products tend to make the skin sun-sensitive, I prefer to use it at night. And because AHA-based products are also exfoliants, it is best to avoid other exfoliants in conjunction with using this product.

I prefer to prep my skin before using the product. I use a gentle cleanser (Skin Origin Cleansing Milk) and a hydrating toner by Naruko. Sometimes I use the hydrating toner as a lotion mask prior to using this Smoothing Treatment. Note that I don't follow up with any moisturizer after applying the Smoothing Treatment.

The orange contents are gel-like with a lightweight texture and sinks into the skin effortlessly. Within a few minutes after application, my skin was silky smooth. There was no redness or flakiness. I was almost elated.
It acts as a gentle exfoliant, without any abrasiveness. After 3 days of using it, it made my skin clear and radiant as well as giving a glow to my dull skin. My skin appeared fresh and almost youthful looking.

The pores on my nose seemed more refined and cleaner. The small dark spots on both of my cheeks seemed less noticeable. I can't help feeling good about my skin, ever since I started on this Smoothing Treatment.

Even though this product may not work for everyone, but because I really like this a lot and so if you have a chance to try it, I highly encourage you to.

This product scored 4.3 from 45 users on Makeupalley.

 

Ingredients:
Water, Glycolic Acid (AHA exfoliant), Cetyl Alcohol (thickener), Butylene Glycol (slip agent and penetration enhancer), Palmitoyl Oligopeptide (cell-communicating ingredient), Ceramide 2 (skin-identical ingredient), Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrobisdemethoxydiferuoylmethane (anti-irritants/antioxidants derived from curcumin), Epigallocatechin Gallate, Caffeic Acid (antioxidants), Salicylic Acid (BHA exfoliant/anti-irritant), Disodium Lauriminodipropionate Tocopheryl Phosphates (vitamin E-based antioxidant), PEG-10 Rapeseed Sterol (fatty acid thickener), Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Bisabolol, Allantoin (anti-irritants), Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Dimethiconol (silicone slip agents/texture enhancers), Tribehenin (texture enhancer), Polysorbate 20 (emulsifier), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, PPG-14 Butyl Ether, PEG-40 Stearate, Sorbitan Stearate (thickeners), PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer, Polyacrylamide (film-forming agents), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), C13-14 Isoparaffin (solvent), Laureth-7 (emulsifier), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Ethylhexylglycerin (skin-conditioning agent), Hexylene Glycol (solvent), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).


Source : Paula's Choice

Review : Naruko Apple Seed & Tranexamic Acid Soothing White Night Gelly

Product Description
NARUKO Apple Seed and Tranexamic Acid Soothing Night Gelly is designed to repair the skin during sleep so you wake up with bright skin in the morning. Apple seed Extract, Tranexamic acid, Vitamin C Glucoside and Arbutin act as a terminator while you sleep, going deep into the skin to clear away dull skin, dark spots and melanin. Skin is rejuvenated and refreshed in the morning. This gentle, ecofriendly product is made without parabens, preservatives, artificial ingredients or coloring. The product is cruelty free and is not tested on animals.
Best For: All skin types, especially for skin with dark spots, dullness, and/or minor aging problems.

Application: Use the spoon included in the package to scoop out a dime-sized amount of the night gelly. With your middle and ring fingers, spread the night gelly evenly on your face. Breathe in deeply to smell the fragrance of the essential oils. Use your fingertips to gently massage and press your face thoroughly.

How to massage:
Step 1: After your night time skincare routine, scoop out a dime-sized amount of the night gelly and spread it evenly on the face (forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose). Use your fingertips to massage thoroughly.
Step 2: Rub your palms together until they are warm. Use your palm to gently press against the forehead, chin, and the sides of the nose. Press on each area for 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Gently put your palms on the eye area to release stress. Step 4: Lastly, gently press against the cheeks and neck area using your palms.

Some of the Naruko products can be either a Hit or a Miss and this is a Miss, unfortunately. Right from the first usage. I was hoping things may improve but sadly it doesn't, though it could still work if I use a hydrating serum prior to the night mask.

Packaging in a tub, the product comes with a spatula for dispensing and hygiene purposes. What is strange about this night mask is that the texture is pretty runny, so much so that I felt that its almost like a toner than a mask for layering.

Because of its runny texture, I prefer to spread it on a cotton pad, using the spatula and glide it all over my face, to ensure that the contents get onto my skin. It can get abit cumbersome in the long run  though.
However, what I wasn't expecting is that it made my skin very tight, almost drying out my skin. I can't believe it! I tried for a week, and every time its the same. I tweaked my skincare regime and added a hydrating serum prior to using it and the tight feeling vanishes. But I was still kinda disappointed with this mask.

There was literally no brightening effect or perhaps the unpleasant encounter with this mask has taken away all its merits, if there was any, in the first place.
I can't bring myself to continue using this. Its that bad!

Source : Naruko

.

Review : Clarins Double Serum Complete Age Control Concentrate

Product Description
Engineered by 27 years of plant science, the NEW Double Serum [Hydric + Lipidic System] combines two powerful age-defying serums into one optimum balance to help fight all aspects of visible ageing. Now you can stay younger. Longer.

The only intensive anti-ageing treatment rich in 20 plant extracts that revitalizes the skin's 5 vital functions. A unique formula the promises a visibly youthful look: firmer skin, visibly reduced wrinkles, more even complexion and less visible pores.

It claims to be the only complete age-control treatment to revitalize skin's 5 anti-aging functions
- Regeneration : boost collagen by 915% for firmer skin
- Protection : against stress and oxidation by 140% for less wrinkles
- Oxygenation : release of CO2 by 18% for skin radiance
- Hydration : 4 hours continuous hydration up to 75% for skin softness
- Nutrition : 19% protein penetration for skin suppleness

Key Ingredients :
Katafray bark extract, hyaluronic acid : moisturising.
Organic perilla and macadamia oils: nourish the skin.
Organic quinoa and green tea extract: protective action.
Maritime pine extract, organic rosehip oil: oxygenize the skin.
Organic green banana extract, thyme and bocoa: regenerating action.

I picked up a 7-Day trial from Clarins some time back and has been incorporating the serum into my skincare regime recently. I noticed that more companies are adopting this trial policy and it certainly resonates well with consumers like us, who are simply spoilt for choice in this mind-boggling beauty industry. One definitely have to try first, before investing in the full retail size.

This serum is actually Clarins' seventh generation of the original anti-ageing double serum, with the first anti-ageing serum launched in 1985 and the sixth, in 2007. This is a fact I wasn't aware initially since I am not a Clarins' fan, to start off with.

It boasts of being able to deliver the following results :
Hydration: Containing double hyaluronic acid, this synthetic ingredient provides moisture that penetrates deep into skin levels, and lock that moisture in as well, so that skin is adequately hydrated.
Regeneration: Using green bananas, the collagen level in skin is replenished and skin can renew itself.
Nourishment: Using kiwi, a fruit that is Vitamin C-rich and also a known anti-oxidant source
Protection: Green tea helps to protect against external environmental stressors
Oxygenation: Helps skin to breathe better. Maritime pine extract, which is the only plant ingredient kept from the previous iteration of this serum, is another anti-oxidant rich ingredient.

The full retail size comes in a bottle with dual chambers that dispenses a water-based (Hydric) and an oil-based (Lipidic) serum from each chamber. I do not have the full retail sized bottle to share here, but in the sample sachet I owned, it also dispenses both a water-based and oil-based serum, where you need to mix both serums before usage. However, in the case of a sample sachet, the depression on the sachet to dispense the contents out may be in a different ratio to that of the pump on a full sized bottle, hence my review may not be that accurate.

According to Clarins, the 2 formulations are served in a proportion that matches our skin's oil and water ratio. I can't testify to how accurate it is but personally I think each person's skin type is different - some people may have an oilier skin than others, so how do the 2 serums match to each individual? Perhaps Clarins may have done some research prior to the launch of this product.

I use the serum mainly in the daytime, just before my regular moisturiser. Despite raves and positive claims from users, this product just did not win me over.

It has a nice floral scent but the serum seemed to take forever to sink into my skin and is probably more suited for night. I did try using it on some nights, right before my Naruko Overnight Mask and it did help to hydrate the skin.

The first thing that irks me is that, it contains mineral oil as the 2nd ingredient, which is a pretty high concentration. That probably meant that the 20 plant extracts are enveloped within this mineral oil.
Of course, you may have your own take if mineral oil is good for the skin.

Secondly, using my sample sachet also meant that the oil to water ratio is probably not as accurate as what a pump dispenser does, hence I am seeing greasy and shiny skin after application, especially on my T-zone area. Not a pretty sight.

When I first tried out the serum, I did not quite like the oily texture. Even after mixing in both formulaes, I still did not like it that much, but followed thru with the 7day usage sachets to see the efficiacy. I can't say that I use it on an everyday basis, because I don't think my combination skin can
take it that well. I did try out for 5 days in a row, on a daily morning basis and left the remaining contents on an alternate day basis. Each sachet provides me with about 2 days usage. You can check out the Clarins application tips here.

I can't see a fantastic improvement to my skin, in terms of even-ness, pore size, lines and radiance.
It is abit too rich for my skin type, though it did not cause any breakouts on my skin.

According to Paula, one of this serum's natural ingredients is a problem for all skin types: perilla oil which is related to the mint family. Even though it contains fatty acids and antioxidants, it is a source of irritation for the skin.

 
This serum also contains far more fragrance and preservative than it does beneficial plants where fragrance is highly discouraged in the use of skincare products which can damage healthy collagen production, lead to or worsen dryness and impair your skin's ability to heal.

Ingredients :
Water, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Paraffinum Liquidum/Mineral Oil/Huile Minerale, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, PPG-3 Myristyl Ether, Butylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Styrene/Isoprene Copolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Oxydendron Arboreum Leaf/Stem Callus Culture Extract, Tromethamine, Hydroxyphenoxy Propionic Acid, Sodium PCA, Parfum/Fragrance, Maltodextrin, Phenoxyethanol, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Perilla Ocymoides Seed Oil, Carbomer, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Diethyl Hexyl Adipate, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Carum Petroselinum (Parsley) Extract, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil Unsaponifiables, Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum Oil, Xanthan Gum, Atractyloides Lancea Root Extract, Salicyloyl Phytosphingosine, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Cedrelopsis Grevei Bark Extract, Tocopherol, Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Fruit Extract, Thymus Citriodorus Flower/Leaf Extract, Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract, Castanea Sativa (Chestnut) Bark Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Bocoa Prouacensis Extract, Pentapeptide-31, Ascorbic Acid.

Review : This Works Clean Skin 5-in-1 Water

Product Description
Award-winning clean skin 5-in-1 water is a one-stop-shop cleanser, removing make-up, decongesting and brightening the skin all at once

MODERN: Gently cleanses, balances, brightens, refreshes and removes all traces of make-up.
NATURAL: Rosewater and fruit-packed botanical waters help shed skin cells and boost elasticity. Ph balancing formula with olive and almond oils to cleanse and Wild Water Mint to cool and tone.
BEAUTY: For healthy-looking, purified and radiant skin.

 

I picked this up from Luxola when there was a promotion going on. A new brand which I have never heard of, prior to the purchase. Being a fan of cleansing water, I didn't think it would be too bad for my skin. But how wrong was I.

Most cleansing waters pose no problem to my combination skin ( with dehydrated surface ) so I expected no big difference in this bottle. Thin and slim, this 200ml bottle costs me $29.95, down from the original $39.

Launched by ex-Vogue beauty guru, Kathy Philips, the main criteria at This Works are quality, purity and integrity. Incorporating only the finest, highly concentrated and naturally active ingredients, This Works ensures truly efficacious products that deliver their promise. This Works uses 100% pure essential oils and products are free from phthalates, sulphates, synthetic colours and fragrance, parabens, GMOs, mineral oils, petrolatum, propylene glycol. Made without testing on animals and without animal by-products and hormones.

I use this product on a daily basis, in the evening to remove my make-up and follow up with a gentle cleanser. WIth a sturdy press dispenser, this bottle pumps out the cleansing water onto the cotton pads easily without much messiness. 2 cotton pads are all I need to remove face make-up and light eye make-up such as concealer and eyebrow liners. I delegate heavier eye make-up to another eye make-up remover.

The bad thing about this product is that it left a taut feeling right after application. I seriously hated it! Despite raves from those who have used it, it is definitely not suitable for my skin.

It seemed gentle enough so I was surprised that its drying. I need to follow up with a good moisturiser each time after using it. I like that the product left my skin feeling clean after using it, without any greasiness or stickiness which is why I love cleansing waters in the first place. My skin seemed slightly brighter too. But just too bad, its not for me.

Ingredients :
Aqua, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Polysorbate 20, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Almond Oil PEG-8 Esters, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, 1-Methylhydantoine-2-imide, Mentha Aquatica (Wild Water Mint) Leaf Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Extract, Dehydroacetic Acid, Acer Saccharinum (Sugar Maple) Extract.

Source : ThisWorks , Luxola

Review : Tony Moly Intense Care Syn-Ake Eye Mask

Product Description
Concentrated hydrating substances contained in the gel deliver abundant nutrients as they gently penerate into the skin, making the skin moisturized and radiant. The physical patch on the skin provides lifting effects to the skin as well.

A friend helped to purchase 3 pairs of the eye masks for me directly from Korea. Containing Snake Venom Peptide (Synake Peptide), it is supposed to be useful for intense wrinkle improvement, not that I have a serious wrinkle problem.

Packaged in a peel-off packaging, one needs to be careful in order to remove the pair of eye masks from the concave tray. Because its made of a jelly material that is glooey in nature, its slippery and slips off the undereye area easily.
It was really irritating if I am in an upright position doing my stuff as I need to constantly re-adjust them. With this pair of eye masks, its highly recommended to be in a lying position for a pampering masking session.

I see a better effect when I used this pair of eye masks for the stipulated 30minutes instead of 20minutes, as I am rushing for time at times.
After a 30minute treatment, my undereye area looks slightly better, in a rested state and the eyebags looks slightly deflated.

Source : Cosme-de , Beauty , Korea

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Review : Belif First Aid Overnight Skin Regeneration Mask

Product Description
A sleeping mask with a natto-like texture that provides intensive nourishment and restores skin vitality overnight. With Napiers anti-aging formula, this mask regenerates dull and exhausted skin and improves its elasticity while helping restore firmness.

Napiers Anti-Aging Formula
Helps boost skin circulation with strong antioxidant properties, it helps improve elasticity and diminish various effects of aging

Napiers Original Formula
Keeps skin healthy and delays the initial stage of skin aging with its antioxidizing, calming and anti-blemish properties.

Recommended for tired and dull skin, this sleeping mask is touted to nourish the skin over the night. The 10ml sachet I owned provided me for more than a week's usage and unfortunately, it is probably too rich for my skin type as I have zits on my chin area every 2 days or so.

Creamy in texture, the beige coloured sleeping mask is like a rich moisturiser to be applied over the skin just before you sleep. During the initial days of usage, it gives my skin a smooth and soft feel the following morning, thereafter there is not much effect.

On days when I turned on the air-conditioning ( due to the bad haze ), I like to use this sleeping mask to provide the added hydration which is badly needed for my skin, else my skin may turn flaky after 2 to 3 days of consecutive nights of air-conditioning.

I dislike the sticky feel, right after application as it takes some time for it to be absorbed into the skin.

Source : Belif , Napiers

Review : Belif Hungarian Water Essence

Product Description
This essence contains hydration secrets of the legendary Hungarian Water that enabled Hungarian Queen Elizabeth to maintain her beauty into old age. This product is applied cool like a spritz of water, and clings to the skin lightly without stickiness, prolonging suppleness and softness.
Without Mineral oil, Synthetic fragrance, Synthetic dyes, Synthetic preservatives, Animal-origin ingredients.

I owned a 3ml sachet which allows me to use it for 3 times. It is said to be able to increase the skin's moisture level by 20%.
The Hungarian water is known to be a special essence which uses ingredients like Rosemary and Gotu Kola, combined with Napier's unique water formula.

Clear in colour, the essence has a gel-like watery texture and goes onto the skin like a gel essence.
It soothes and refreshes the skin with a cooling touch, leaving a slight tacky feel which disappears after a short while. However, its not impressive enough for me to get the full retail size, despite its affordability.
There are much better products out there which can do a better job in terms of hydration.

It retails at $57 for a 75ml bottle

Source : Belif

Review : L'egere Water Drop Shiny Pearl BB Cream SPF 26

Product Description
L’EGERE Water Drop Shiny Pearl B.B Cream is an Oil Free BB Cream that acts effectively on irritated skin, concealing dermal blemish and helps skin rejuvenation with innovative active ingredients.
This silicon-based formula defines a natural, long lasting complexion with gentle calming effects of natural, plant derived soothing particles not only on oily and sensitive skin, but also on irritated skin following peel care.

Benefits :
· OIL FREE · WATER-PROOF · SWEAT-PROOF
· With 3D pearl shining particles
· Provides the skin with a pearl-like natural gloss
· Aqua Moisturizing ingredients tightly attached, makeup does not easily fall off

The 10gm BB cream I owned comes free from my first Bellabox subscription last year. I used it on a daily morning basis with loose powder on weekdays for work.

It is touted to have 6 major skin care benefits :
Whitening + Moisturizing + Anti-Wrinkle + Anti-Aging + Renewal + Anti Oxidant

as well as 4 main skin protection :
Foundation Base + Coverage + Controls Sebum + Sun Protects

When I first swatched it on my hands, I was very surprised to see that the colour is so dark, way darker than all the current BB creams I owned. Almost dark brown with an orangish hue.However, it blends into my fair skin perfectly, that its almost non-existent, leaving some very subtle shimmers on the skin. It brightens up my skin with a subtle glow.
Note that the pearl particles are quite fine that you can hardly see it unless you peer at your face very closely.

This BB cream has a lightweight texture with a silicon-feel that is slightly runny. It has no concealing abilities and is not able to conceal any blemishes or redness. It feels moisturising on the skin, with a cooling touch.

It scored 3.6 from 5 users on Makeupalley.

Source : Bellabox

Review : Intelligent Nutrients Anti-Aging Mist

Product Description
This specially crafted mist is more than a toner, beyond a mere balancer, anything but an ordinary astringent. Intellimune-powered moisturization in a highly bio-available form sinks into skin, ensuring the benefits of our serum go deeper while applying antioxidant superpower to help skin's elasticity, bounce back and inner light turn on. Use as a refresher day-long for moisture. Set makeup. Nourishes cells from within. Free of artificial aromas or fluff. For any and every skin type. This absolutely must be applied immediately before our Anti-Aging Serum-it facilitates the absorption and dispersion of that wonder oil.

Made in USA, gluten and cruelty free, USDA certified organic and vegan, this anti-aging mist is touted to refresh and revitalize skin while lightly moisturizing and helping to renew cells.
It nourishes with the Intellimune Seed Meal and Seed Oil Complex that helps skin retain water and inhibits the loss of collagen while strengthening with a pure blend of antioxidant and omega fatty acid-rich ingredients. The water-based formula also helps prep for serum and moisturizer application and leaves skin invigorated and radiant.

Packaged in a slim travel-friendly 50ml spray bottle, it exudes a simple elegance with its polished white surface. The mist is dispensed thru a tiny nozzle, leaving fine tiny droplets on the skin that gets absorbed pretty quickly with some patting motions which I usually do, to boost blood circulation, as well as to get it into the skin.

It has a light scent that is not overpowering to the nose. One will be happy to know that the product is free of plastics, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, silicone, and petrochemicals as well as containining a cocktail mix of antioxidant stuff for the skin, such as certified organic seed oils like black cumin, pumpkin and red raspberry.
Refreshing and soothing, I really like how it feels, with all the touted goodness for skin's health.

Ingredients
Aqueous (water/aqua) extracts: Nigella sativa (Black Cumin) Seed*, Cucurbita pepo (Pumpkin) Seed*, Rubus idaeus (Red Raspberry) Seed*, Vitis vinifera (Red Grape) Seed*, Vaccinium macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed*, Alcohol Denat.*, Nigella sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil*, Cucurbita pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil*, Rubus idaeus (Red Raspberry) Seed Oil*, Vitis vinifera (Red Grape) Seed Oil*, Vaccinium macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil*, Citrus aurantium dulcis (Orange) Flower Oil*, Helichrysum angustifolium (Everlasting) Flower Oil*, Daucus carota sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil*, Canaga odorata (Ylang Ylang) Flower Oil*, Citrus aurantium bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil*, Pelargonum graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil*, Chamomilla recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil*, Limonene*^, Linalool*^, Geraniol*^, Citronellol*^, Benzyl Benzoate*^, Farnesol*^, Benzyl Salicylate*^, Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

*Certified Organic
^Naturally occurring component of organic essential oil blend

Source : Intelligent Nutrients , Amazon

Review : Sukin Organics Botanical Body Wash

 

Product Description

Aromatic botanicals combined with softening jojoba, avocado, and rose hip oils to hydrate and purify your skin.

An S.L.S and S.L.E.S free cleanser, enriched with aromatic botanicals to stimulate the senses in the morning or help revive a tired body. Contains skin softening jojoba, avocado and rosehip oils to soften, hydrate and purify your skin.
Suitable for all skin types especially sensitive.

Winner Best Selling Cleanser Award at Watson’s Health and Beauty Awards, Singapore 2008 & 2010.
Australian owned and made, this product is 100% vegan and 100% Carbon Neutral. It does not contain Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Slphate (SLES), Synthetic Fragrances, Animal Derivatives, Harsh Detergents, Propylene Glycol, Artificial Colours, Triethanolamine, Mineral Oils, EDTA and Parabens.

I picked it up from our the local Watsons at about $11.90, if I remembered correctly. Sometimes there may be a 20% discount going on too, though not very frequently on this body wash.

Packaged in a 250ml pump dispenser bottle, the gel-like texture glides on well on the body, with a lovely rosehip scent. It left the skin feeling clean and well-pampered, without any drying or greasy after-feel.

The bottle is dark in colour, supposingly to protect the ingredients from external light to maintain the effectiveness of the product.

I like it, for being affordable and not containing bad ingredients though some may disapprove of the preservative "Phenoxyethanol" in its list.

It scored 4.4 from 8 users on Makeupalley.

Ingredients:
Aqua, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Glycerin, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil (Rose Hip), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (Chamomile), Yucca Shdigera leaf/Root/Stem Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract (Lavender), Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Vanillin, Vanilla Planifolia Extract, Citric Acid, Linalool,* Limonene.*
* Natural component of essential oils.

Source : Sukin