Last Day of 2015

Today is the last day of 2015. How do you feel? Have you grown a little wiser, a lot healthier and a little prettier? Have you found your meaning in life and is happier than before?

This year has been an eventful year for me and I certainly feel that this year flew much faster than other years. My heart has gone through some aches, either from personal woes or from others. Came across a number of deaths this year, contributed to a few condolence funds and attended several funerals as well. Hopefully the following year will bring good news and cheers to what I have been wishing for.

I truly feel that one must be happy in life. I am pessimistic by nature, always trying to prepare myself for the worst yet still find it hard to accept it when things really go bad. Quotes keep me going at times and here's some that I came across recently..


If you have a bad day at times...

If you are working towards your goals...

Sometimes in life, we tend to regret some of our doings...especially where relationships are concerned...

If you have gone through some aches, be it in the heart or mind...

If you have made some changes in your life due to some bad experiences, just remember that...

Whatever it is, keep on fighting!

And finally, be thankful that every day is a blessing and life still goes on....

Merry Christmas 2015!

Christmas is here, which meant that 2015 is coming to a close. How has 2015 been for you? Certainly hope it has been a fruitful and meaningful year for you!

Belief, Lumene, Iherb + Gifts

Iherb Haul ( Quote OKI787 to get US$5 off your first purchase )

EO Eucalyptus and Arnica Be Well Bubble Bath  $12.53
Avalon Organics Lavender Bath and Shower Gel $9.78
Wiseways Herbals All Heal Salve $5.23
BabySpa Calming Eczema Relief Cream $11.32
Badger Anti-Bug Balm $13.85
Shikai Natural Color Shampoo $7.09
Shikai Intensive Conditioner $8.86
Acure Organics Moroccan Argan Oil $12.76
Weleda Pomegranate Oil $23.08

Lancome Hypnose Gift Set $50
Biotherm Aquasource Gel $50.20 ( down from $69 due to Luxola 20% discount and my membership credits )

A'Kin Lavender Body Wash ( Christmas gift )
Sephora Lipgloss ( Christmas gift )

I received Belif bestselling samples as part of Tangs member during my birthday month.

- peat miracle revital serum concentrate
- the true cream aqua bomb
- the true cream moisturising bomb
- hungarian water essence
- first aid overnight anti-wrinkle and firming mask
- peat miracle revital eye cream
- first aid 360 eye care mask

Received a Lumene serum during my aunt's trip to Denmark

- Bright Now Vitamin C Dry Skin Cocktail
- CC Color Correcting and Blurring Primer sample 
- Bright Now Blur Line and Pore Minimizer sample 

There was a 40% storewide sale on Luxola and I also redeemed another $25 from my points which made it an even sweeter deal!

- Dr. GL Sun Protection Anti-Aging SPF 30  $64.80  ( original $108 )
- SKII Signs Eye Mask  $68.40  ( original $116 ) 

Picked up 3 boxes of Nauruko cotton pads at RM$12 each ( VS Naruko.sg at S$4.90 each )

• Welda Body Oils Essential Kit ( 10ml each ) US$4.24
• Abra Therapeutics Lavender Natural Body Scrub  US$8.89
• All Terrain Herbal Armor Natural Insect Repellent Deet-Free Pump Spray US$6.83
• Shikai Natural Color Care Shampoo US$5.83
• Shikai Color Reflect Intensive Repair Conditioner US$7.30
• Bach Original Flower Remedies Rescue Cream US$8.48

• Naturalmente Breathe Skin Therapy Moisturizing Cleanser Emulsion $50.25 ( 3 free 1 promotion off retail $67 )
• Naturalmente Breathe Skin Therapy Antioxidant Age Correcting Mask sachet, Essere Shower Bath sachet, Essere Hair Conditioner, Essere Vanilla and Coconut Mask ( complimentary )
• Sulwhasoo Basic Kit ( complimentary with Her World July 15 issue - gifted by a friend )

- First Care Activating Serum EX
- Essential Balancing Water
- Essential Balancing Emulsion
- Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream

• Sulwhasoo sample sachets in my mailbox
• Dermalogica Super Sensitive Shield SPF 30 $110  ( redeemed with my Aster Spring voucher )
• John Frieda Full Repair Shampoo, Conditioner and Deep Conditioner ( unexpected complimentary gifts after filling in a John Frieda survey  )

Alima Pure Satin Matte Bronzer (Mauna Loa) $20.40  ( down from $34 )
Mekhala Soothing Tamarind Facial Cleanser $25.20 ( down from $42 )

SKII Stempower Essence Kit $47  ( 70% off $156 )
SKII Facial Treatment Essence Duo Set Crystal Limited Edition $129 ( 70% off $429 )
Bioderma Micellaire Solution $29.90  ( Pink Beauty )
Frank Skincare 100% Organic Luxury Face Oil ( redeem a sample from frankskincare )

Yves Rocher Botanical Body Scrub $18.90  ( 30% off $27 )
Yves Rocher Hair Repair Oil $14  ( 30% off $20 )
HABA Squa Cleansing Oil $64.80  ( 20% off $81 )
Paper Masks  $6.90  ( from Sasa )

Review : Kahina Giving Beauty Eye Serum

Product Description
An intense treatment utilizing active botanicals to address fine lines and wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles.

Rich in peptides and antioxidants, Kahina Eye Serum penetrates easily to:

• Increase lymphatic drainage to reduce puffiness
• Increase microcirculation to minimize dark circles
• Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Restore collagen and improve elasticity

A 15ml of Kahina Giving Beauty Eye Serum costs me $97.20 ( 10% off $108 ) from Charis Naturals and retails for US$78 direct from Kahina-givingbeauty. It is my most expensive eye serum to date and I desperately wanted it to work. 

I was flattered when a not-so-familiar friend's 8 year old son has called me "jie-jie" instead of "auntie" at a wedding dinner recently. He was tasked to greet me "auntie" by her mum but instead of obliging, he turned to his mum with a puzzled look " Jie-jie or auntie? " and promptly called me "jie-jie" 

From afar, I can usually pass off as someone several years younger, because of my petite size and cherubic cheeks but up close, the lines around my eyes are evident. While my eye bags are mainly genetic, I never give up and is still seeking a hydrating eye treatment product that works on the eye bags and fine lines. 

Kahina Giving products are highly raved about and upon finding out that I can get it directly in Singapore, I promptly ordered one. I have my own personal misgivings on how independent retailers store such organic/natural products but I still choose to trust them and ordered one in the mail. 

The Beauty Eye Serum is said to be a powerful cocktail of collagen producing and hydrating ingredients such as peptides, hyaluronic acid and betain in a base of lightweight sunflower oil. Collagen production is stimulated in order to reduce fine lines and firm up the skin with proven anti-aging peptides and aspen bark extract. 

The under eye area is delicately hydrated with fast absorbing and deeply penetrating hyaluronic acid, while betain firms the skin and reduces pigmentation that contributes to dark circles. Powerful antioxidants are delivered by roseroot extract while strengthening the delicate under eye skin in order to prevent fine lines.

100% natural, vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free and made with organic ingredients, Kahina Giving Beauty Eye Serum is stored in a black opaque glass bottle with a plastic pump dispenser that squirt out just the right amount for the undereye area. The texture is very lightweight and almost runny where one only needs a tiny amount to spread around the undereye area. 

It is a hybrid combination of oil and gel yet absorbs well, without any greasiness or tackiness. I usually use the eye serum in the morning as I prefer something heavier in the night. 

I have been using the serum for close to 6 months and while it did not provide any explosive results like what some of them does, the fine lines on my undereye area is generally less noticeable when I am not smiling but still apparent when I smile. 

The well made packaging is another thumbs up as the pump dispenser is able to pick up right to the last drop. 

Get yours from Amazon.

Ingredients : 

aqua, betaine, saccharomyces cerevisiae extract, rhodiola rosea root extract, argania spinosa (argan) oil*, glycerin*, populus tremuloides (aspen) bark extract, caprylic/capric triglyceride, polygonum fagopyrum extract, hexapeptide-11, sodium hyaluronate, argania spinosa (argan) leaf extract, maltodextrin, olea europaea (olive) leaf extract, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract*, helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil*, hydrogenated lecithin, sclerotium gum, xanthan gum, p-anisic acid

*Ingredient from Organic Farming

99.88% of the total ingredients are from natural origin; 7.42% of the total ingredients are from Organic Farming

Ideas To Style Your Short Hair!

A romantic bohemian look

A classical side braid

Rock that top knot

Source : Asia-be

Skincare Secret Tip from Miss Singapore Universe, Rathi Menon

Her daily beauty routine :
Clean and fresh skin is very important to me, so I wash my face everyday, followed by an alcohol-free lotion to balance my skin. Unfortunately, I get white heads on my nose quite often, so I apply paste made up of baking soda and water, which gets rid of them effectively. I’m also a big believer of pampering myself with DIY facial masks at least once a week. My favourite is to mix cucumber with yoghurt and honey.

Having make up piled on my face almost every day isn’t good for my skin, which is why cleansing is absolutely crucial to me. I remove makeup immediately after every photo shoot with a gentle makeup remover to let my skin breathe. I also like to use an invigorating apricot scrub once a week for that fresh-faced feeling. And on days when I don’t have photo shoots, I wear little to no make up.

Source : Honeycombers

Etude House Korean Ginseng I Need You Mask

Product Description
This mask sheet contains nourishing Korean Ginseng extract (Panax Ginseng Root Extract), enhancing a youthful complexion by revitalizing exhausted and lifeless skin

A dear friend has helped to get 3 sheets of the Etude House Korean Ginseng I Need You Mask direct from Korea for me. The ginseng scent hits me as I pulled it out from the packaging but it just feels and smells pretty soothing and relaxing to me. 

The sheet mask is folded and soaked in essence. Material is thick, with smaller cutouts at the eyes area and a slightly shorter nose flap. 

A 20 minute treatment has given me immediate brighter, softened and smoother skin, just like its claims - revitalizing exhausted and lifeless skin. 

Ingredients :
WATER, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, GLYCERIN, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE, DIMETHICONE, CITRUS PARADISI (GRAPEFRUIT) FRUIT EXTRACT, POLYGLYCERYL-3 METHYLGLUCOSE DISTEARATE, GLYCERYL STEARATE, PEG-100 STEARATE, PANTHENOL, AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER, XANTHAN GUM, PANAX GINSENG ROOT EXTRACT(20MG), ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, SODIUM POLYACRYLATE, ALLANTOIN, HYDROGENATED POLYDECENE, TRIDECETH-6, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, SOPHORA ANGUSTIFOLIA ROOT EXTRACT, LONICERA JAPONICA (HONEYSUCKLE) FLOWER EXTRACT, PRUNUS PERSICA (PEACH) LEAF EXTRACT, PAEONIA ALBIFLORA ROOT EXTRACT, GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT, SCUTELLARIA BAICALENSIS ROOT EXTRACT, DISODIUM EDTA, PHENOXYETHANOL, FRAGRANCE

Source : Etude House 

Review : For Beloved One Flawless Brightening Bio-Cellulose Eye Mask

Product Description
To help correct local darkness, brighten eye sockets to regain radiance, soothe skin tension around eyes, facilitate the formation of collagen, help to prevent wrinkles and soften rough skin around eyes.

With rave reviews on For Beloved One masks, I was happy to receive a complimentary For Beloved One Flawless Brightening Bio-Cellulose Eye Mask during my last For Beloved One purchases in Sephora. 4 pairs in a box retail for $43 in Sephora but interestingly, I wasn't able to find much information about this eye mask online.

I have been saving the eye mask for events and used it on the day of a wedding dinner I attended recently. For Beloved One is famed for their Bio-Cellulose Mask for having the best thickness, thinnest fibers, best affinity to skin and having the most essence.

In For Beloved One Flawless Brightening Bio-Cellulose Eye Mask, the pair of eye masks are kept within double layers of protection although one has slipped off and is "swimming" around in the packaging.

White and glooey in texture, the material is slightly slippery and hence slide slightly on my undereye area. I rested in bed for the recommended 20 minutes and during the initial 5 minutes, there was a minty and tingling effect before it disappears.

I was disappointed to see no significant difference at all, considering the retail price of their eye masks. Sticking to their facial mask makes better sense.

Where To Purchase : Shopee

Review : MG Whiten Bright Express ( Ginseng ) Eye Mask

Containing 3 pairs in a box, MG Whiten Bright Express Eye Mask are packed in individual sachets. In each sachet, a pair of eye mask has a protective layering between them, though at times it has already slip off when I tried to take it out from the sachet.

There is a subtle scent but it didn't remind me of Ginseng and is not really obvious once layered on the undereye area. The size is generous and covered to almost the top of the cheeks. Cooling and refreshing, it provides a comfortable fit on the undereye area.

The under eye area looks slightly plumped up while the fine lines are softened. However, this is just a temporary measure, as with most eye masks.
Note that, I have used them daily for 3 days, which probably explain the effectiveness, as compared to using them once/twice a week.

Roots Touch up at Michelle's Hair and Beauty Studio

Salon : Michelle's Hair and Beauty Studio
Location : 148, Potong Pasir Ave 1, #01-41, S(350148)
Tel : 6858 3813 / 9641 0488  ( rest day on Wednesday )
Stylist : Michelle

I first had my colour done by Michelle late last year and subsequently I had roots touch up for the next 2 times. Frustrated with the straw-like hair condition after each hair colouring job by Nook, I opted for the Techna colour, this time round. I kept coming back to Michelle, because I love the natural colour she has chosen for me, to colour the greys. In her salon, 90% of her customers use Nook, because it is cheaper and more effective. She herself is also using Nook to touch-up her blonde locks for the last 6 years.
She is puzzled about my feedback of using Nook and said she will take note from other customers to see if they also face the same issue like me. Both brands hail from Italy.

Techna is more expensive but I still wanted to try it out, to see if there's a difference. I was only worried about the colour match between the original colour by Nook and the new hair by Techna. After visiting her salon for several times, Michelle is now more open and friendly as compared to my first visit.

No hair wash prior to colouring. The hair dye stings slightly after application and continue to sting even during shrink wrap for 20 minutes or so. However, it is less intense than using Nook during my first visit.

The hair wash is also less painful but Michelle still wet my top at the back where she made the effort to blow dry it. She complimented my hair, being very healthy and full of shine. That it is not easy to find someone with healthy hair like mine. Oh Whoa! Does my current shampoo and conditioner from Intelligent Nutrients contributed to it? Looks like my favourite hair brand rocks!

Quick with her hands, the job is done within 1.5 hours and she charges me $55 ( as with Nook ) though initially, she says it will be more expensive if based on Techna. My scalp itches slightly after the colouring job and there was a slight straw-like hair condition when I shampoo my hair the next day, though I didn't experience any dandruff which is pretty good news to me.

However, on the second day of hair-washing, dandruff appeared. Large flakes as per previous time. I made a mental note to wash it more thoroughly subsequently and thankfully, there was no such issue thereafter, though my hair is still hard, dry and straw-like when its wet - but less terrible than using Nook.

I was also glad that the colour Michelle chose for me, blend well with my original colour too.

Review : Ioma Flash Youth Eye Concentrate

Product Description

A veritable enhancer for your eyes, Ioma Flash Youth Eye Concentrate ensures a 360 degrees action that counteracts puffiness and dark circles while regenerating on your eye contour, to defy the passage of time. 

Proven results :

• Perfectly moisturizes the eye contour area
• Lastingly regenerates cells
• Instantly and lastingly drains eyelids, under-eye bags and dark circles
• Dramatically lifts eyes

Formulated without parabens, silicones, plant oils and tested under ophthalmological control, Ioma Flash Youth Eye Concentrate is said to contain a combination of highly concentrated ingredients to moisturise, regenerate, drain and lift the eye area courtesy of its cocktail of omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids, caffeine and other eye brighteners all aimed at smoothing and refreshing the whole eye area. It is also the first product to focus on the eyelids, together with the under eye area, to provide a lifting effect. 

I received a complimentary 1.5ml sample sachet from my last Ioma purchase and used it day and night for the last 3 days. The upper eyelid is an often-neglected area yet you cant deny that it does age in its skin and sagging so other than using on the undere eye area, Ioma Flash Youth Eye Concentrate is also meant for the eyelids. 

Usage direction : 

- apply by starting on the interior corner of the upper eyelids and ending with the interior corner of the lower eyelids.

- repeat 3 times

- glide fingers along the under eye area by using back and forth motions towards the outer corner of the eye

- repeat 3 times

During my first usage, Ioma Flash Youth Eye Concentrate gives off an odd spicy sensation that almost felt like I am rubbing chilli on my undereye area. It is just that weird.
On subsequent usages, the sensation starts to get milder but I still get that cooling and tingly feeling. On a psychological front, it felt like the product is doing something to get the blood circulating around the undereye area and I felt good. 

The texture is pretty lightweight and runny. Non-greasy or heavy on the eye area and absorbs well into skin. Ioma Flash Youth Eye Concentrate is providing that feel-good vibe resulting that I may just run to get the full retail size once my current eye products are used up.

I have to admit something though. Every time I used the product, I seriously forgot about the eyelids and only apply on the undereye area hence, I can't comment on the efficacy on the eyelids area. 

Source : Ioma, Ioma-news, 

Lumene Color Correcting & Blurring Primer

Product Description
The Lumene CC Blur Primer is a true hybrid product : skin color correcting blur primer that creates a perfect base for makeup. Its natural nude color corrects the skin tone and gives it a radiant matte surface. It also helps to neutralize the appearance of skin imperfections, brings a glow to the face with reflecting pigments and helps the makeup last longer.

Benefits : 
1) evens the skin tone = subdued nude shade
2) blur effect = silicones that smooth the skin's surface
3) brightens = light-reflecting pigments
4) minimizes the appearance of skin's imperfections

I received a sample of Lumene Color Correcting and Blurring Primer from my aunt's purchase of the Lumene serum as a souvenir for me, when she was touring Denmark. Prior to her trip, I have never hear of Lumene but a google search revealed it to be widely known as an affordable range of skincare, infused with Arctic ingredients.

Formulated without parabens, the primer is said to be a nude colour filling base to diminish imperfections for lasting soft-focus finish. Silicon-heavy, it glides on well on skin to provide that velvety smooth touch, however, it tends to "pill" slightly as I tried to blend it into skin. "Pill" refers to tiny globes of balls as shown below. It feels like the remnants after using an eraser.

The "pill" isn't obvious on skin but I can feel it on my fingertips and I didn't like that one bit. Some may say that a product "pills" easier on dehydrated skin but I didn't feel that my skin is flaking prior to using the primer so to each of its own. Perhaps you may not encounter this issue on your skin.

The nude colour literally disappears into skin and skin looks smoother and larger pores ( between sides of nose and cheeks ) are well-hidden. I did not apply any foundation but apply my loose powder directly after the primer and the final look is just natural. The finishing is matte, with a soft focus feel.

Oil control is normal, it didn't make my T-zone oily - in fact, there is no difference with or without wearing the primer in terms of oil control. The light-reflecting pigments are not visible and I didn't see any glow which I was expecting, from the product. Redness and blemishes are still apparent which is expected since there is no claim from the product that it can conceal those.

However, by end of the day, my make-up tends to slide off slightly, hence the primer didn't help my make-up to stay longer. Note that I didn't use any foundation but just loose powder, so in a way, this may be expected.

Ingredients : 

CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, DIMETHICONE, CYCLOHEXASILOXANE, DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER, POLYMETHYL METHACRYLATE, NYLON-12, CETEARYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER, C30-45 ALKYL CETEARYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER, VACCINIUM VITIS-IDAEA (LINGONBERRY) SEED OIL, PHENOXYETHANOL, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, ALUMINUM/MAGNESIUM HYDROXIDE STEARATE, SORBIC ACID, PERFLUOROOCTYL TRIETHOXYSILANE, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL, ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS LEAF EXTRACT, PARFUM (FRAGRANCE) 

MAY CONTAIN: MICA, (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499) IRON OXIDES, (CI 77891) TITANIUM DIOXIDE

Source : Lumene

Simple remedies to reduce eye bags

Facts : 

1. The space below the eyes can accumulate fluid. That’s why that area can appear puffy and swollen!
2. Fluid retention is thus a cause for eye bags. For e.g. changes in weather like hot climates, hormone levels, consuming salty foods etc.
3. Fat that is usually confined around the eyes can move into the area below your eyes. This is why there is a protruding pouch below it, otherwise known as EYE BAGS!
4. Did you know that eye bags are also related to aging? When the tissue structures and muscles start weakening, #2 will happen even faster!
5. Make sure to get enough sleep too, because not enough of it may contribute to eye bags!
6. Some allergies or skin conditions like dermatitis can make eye bags worse, especially if redness and itching comes with the puffiness.
7. Had eye bags your whole life? It could be running in the family! Hereditary also plays a part in your appearance, and eye bags are no different.
8. Apart from all the above and not so surprisingly, gravity also plays a part in causing eye bags! The longer you are exposed to the gravitational pull (i.e. as you age) that pulls down all of Earth’s matter including your skin, the more your facial features will sink.

Remedies : 

1. FACIAL EXERCISES

By exercising your eye muscles, it will increase the blood circulation, allowing more oxygen and more nourishment to reach the cells of the skin.

Look to your right side, while keeping your face pointing forward. Hold for 5 seconds. Move your eyes to your left side for 5 seconds.

• Look up for 5 seconds. Look down for 5 seconds. Look diagonally for 5 seconds in each direction. Now, turn your head to the left and look in corresponding directions. Repeat exercise 2 to 10 times for both sides.

 Good For: Drooping eyelids, crow’s feet, eye bags and puffiness.

Step 1: Press both middle fingers together at the inner corner of the eyebrows, then with the index fingers, apply pressure to the outer corners of the eyebrows.

Step 2: Look to the ceiling, and raise the lower eyelids upwards to make a strong squint, and then relax.

Step 3: Repeat six more times and finish by squeezing eyes shut tightly for 10 seconds.

• Place four fingers horizontally beneath your eye, roughly in a line with the middle of your nose at the end of the hollow of the eye.
• Partially close your eye working against the resistance created by your fingers and then hold momentarily.
• Open your eye and repeat 15 times
• Repeat for the other eye, or do both eyes simultaneously

These eye workouts can reduce drooping eyelids and it can also refresh your eyes if you work on a computer or watch television for long periods of time. You can also do this exercise with your eyes closed.

2. COLD SPOONS

This remedy is simple and effective.

• Chill 5 to 6 spoons in your refrigerator for 10 to 20 minutes.
• When the spoons are chilled, take one from the refrigerator and lightly press the rounded portion (i.e. convex part of the spoon) against your puffy eyes until the spoon becomes warm.
• When the spoon turns warm, replace it with the other cold spoon from the refrigerator.

Cold spoons can tighten up the skin around the eyes and relax blood vessels, offering relief to puffy and swollen eyes. 

3. TEA BAGS

Be it green tea or black tea, or any kind of tea bag, they can aid in offering relief to the eyes.

• Soak 2 tea bags in hot water for 2 to 3 minutes before taking them out to cool.
• When the teabags are cooled, lie down and put them over your eyelids and cover them with a soft cloth.
• Leave them in place for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Repeat a few times a day for best effect.

Tea bags contain anti-irritant properties that can reduce swelling around the eyes, and relieve redness and inflammation. 

4. CUCUMBERS

Chilled cucumbers bring ease to puffy eyes.

• Cut a cucumber into thick slices.
• Chill the slices in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Close your eyes and place 2 chilled slices on each of your eyelid until it becomes warm.
• Repeat a few times a day for best effect.

Cucumbers contain enzymes and constringent properties that help tighten the skin. This remedy can also help get rid of wrinkles (i.e. crow’s feet) and dark circles around the eyes. 

5. POTATOES

Like cucumbers, potatoes are effective in reducing eye bags.

• Get a medium-sized potato. Peel, wash, and dry it.
• Grate the potato and put the shavings in a clean, soft cloth before tying the shavings up.
• Place the soft cloth over your eyelids for several minutes.
• Repeat the process a few times a day for best effect.

Lifestyle :  

• Water
  • This simple act of hydrating ourselves is commonly overlooked in our daily lives because we are mostly distracted with other activities. When we give our bodies the right amount of water it needs, it reduces the chances of fluid retention in the body that can cause puffiness in your under eye area.
  • 8 to 10 glasses of water, or 2.2 to 2.3 litres, daily is sufficient to keep your body well hydrated
• Reducing sugar and salt intake
• Consistent sleep of optimally 7-8 hours
• Squeeze in 10-15 mins of exercise everyday
  • It doesn’t have to be very vigorous. Light exercises will do (Brisk walking, skipping etc.)
• *for this part, show the above remedies as making them into a lifestyle e.g. cold spoons on eyes while watching tv, cucumbers on eyelids while resting, etc.

Source : Blackpaint

Boots Cucumber & Aloe Vera Hand & Nail Cream

I received Boots Cucumber and Aloe Vera Hand and Nail Cream from a good friend back from her Phuket trip. The hand cream is in a 100ml tube form, with clear packaging that reflects the green lightweight textured hand cream.

It has a light cucumber refreshing scent and is non-greasy. However, Boots Cucumber and Aloe Vera Hand and Nail Cream is too light to be moisturising under air-conditioned environment. The hand cream disappears pretty quickly after I massage it into my hands and doesn't provide much nourishment.

In terms of ingredients, the cucumber and aloe vera fall as the last 2 ingredients in the list which made the quantities pretty little to be of any effectiveness.

Review : MG Firming and Tightening Eye Mask

Yet another MG eye mask, this time in the form of Firming and Tightening Eye Mask hailing from my last China trip. Containing 3 individually packed sheets, each pair of eye masks is separated by a thin plastic film between them.

The eye mask sheets has a subtle perfumery scent that is hardly detectable, unless brought very near to the nose. It provides a slight tingly sensation once layered on the undereye area and is cold and refreshing. However, the MG Firming and Tightening Eye Mask did not provide any obvious result.

Review : Dermalogica Super Sensitive Shield SPF 30

Product Description

Broad Spectrum sunscreen ideal for sensitized, reactive and recently resurfaced skin. Natural mineral sunscreens help shield against photodamage and UV exposure. Contains our exclusive UltraCalming™ Complex with Oat and botanical actives to help minimize discomfort, burning and itching. Sheer formula provides optimal hydration and helps protect and reinforce barrier lipids, which are often compromised in sensitized skin conditions. Formulated without artificial fragrances and colors

Benefits 

- Formulated specifically for sensitized skin using only natural mineral UV protectors (no chemical sunscreens)
- Sheer formula hydrates while reinforcing barrier lipids
- Antioxidants and botanical extracts guard against premature aging and irritation

I have not been using Dermalogica products for a long while, after they tweaked the formulae of their sensitive range. It did not resonate well with my skin so I stopped using it completely. Dermalogica used to be my top favourite brand and I rave highly of them but unfortunately, the more they change their formula, the more disappointed I am, with their products. The same, goes for Dermalogica Super Sensitive Shield SPF 30 which has replaced my favouite Super Sensitive Faceblock SPF30.

I signed up with Aster Spring ( previously known as Leonard Drake ) recently and received a $120 voucher to redeem a product. I chose Dermalogica Super Sensitive Shield SPF 30 after using up Dr. GL Sun Protection SPF 30 and was looking for a sunscreen product then.

Dermalogica Super Sensitive Shield SPF 30 can also be used as a daily moisturiser but I use it strictly as a sunscreen after my moisturiser. The contents are kept in a slightly soft pliable bottle which can be depressed slightly, but there is hardly a need to do so, since the white milky fluid ooze out easily from the tiny opening.

Containing both Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide, Dermalogica Super Sensitive Shield SPF 30 provides broad-spectrum protection which is essential in our humid Singapore. The sunscreen fluid applies effortlessly but is sticky on skin making it tacky under the weather. I totally dislike any sunscreen with sticky texture because I end up with sticky hands and face and the tackiness continued until you wash it off. 

The previous formula, Super Sensitive Faceblock SPF30 is never tacky so I am sorely disappointed that this does. However, if you look past the stickiness, Super Sensitive Shield SPF 30 is actually pretty easy to spread around on skin and is formulated without artificial fragrances and colours.

There is a slight sheen on the surface of skin, with a light white cast as well but is a minor issue, after I add on my usual BB cream and loose powder.

Looking at the ingredients, it contains several fragrant oils though I wonder why they are there, for a sunscreen product. Hence, it may not be suitable for those with sensitive and reactive skin.

The 30ml size retails for $110 in Aster Spring branches but you can make use of the occasional promotion that they have from time to time. 

Active ingredients: Titanium Dioxide (7.0%) Zinc Oxide (9.0%). 

Other ingredients: Water/Aqua/EAU, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dicaprylyl Ether, Butylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide, Dimethicone, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat), Kernel Extract, Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract, Oxothiazolidine, Citrullus Vulgaris (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Lens Esculenta, (Lentil) Fruit Extract, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Lavandula Spica (Lavender) Flower Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil Sodium DNA, Tocopherol , Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Carbomer, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Bisabolol, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Fruit Extract, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Silica, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Triethoxysilylethyl Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Hexyl Dimethicone, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Glycerin, Cyclomethicone, Tocopheryl Acetate, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium, Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol

Review : For Beloved One Soothing Cleansing Liquid

Product Description

Double GX cleanses skin and removes make-up,Tornare™ and Anasensyl® gently lifts. the dirt and soothes skin while Moist24™ locks H2O in cells. It is the solution for skin care in cleansing, nourishing, and soothing delicate skin

I purchased For Beloved One Soothing Cleansing Liquid for $28.80 after a 20% discount from Sephora late last year. Although my favourite cleansing water is still from Bioderma, I still stray every now and then but much lesser than before.

There is a distinct scent when you put your nose near it, but hardly detectable when you use it on cotton pads. The small gap on the clear bottle is easy to dispense onto cotton pads and my make-up goes off easily as well. A cotton bud is still required to get the eyeliner remnants off the eyelids. 

Even though it is almost as effective as Bioderma Sensibio H20 Micelle Solution, but I will still prefer a product without any added fragrance.

Review : Balm Kitchen Dark Choccy Kissable Lip Balm

Product Description
Natural goodness from raw ingredients like black tea leaves, cinnamon bark, green tea leaves, coffee beans, cacao powder and vanilla beans in sweet almond oil are combined with skin loving emollients like coconut oils, cocoa butter and mango butter to nourish and protect your lips against the elements. 

With the proliferation of local hand-crafted brands recently, it was a natural choice for me to pick up one of the lip balms from Balm Kitchen, especially with its pocket-friendly prices. It was an Instagram post by a friend that triggered my purchase as the flavours seem to be screaming at me. The flavours were limited when it was first launched so I chose Dark Choccy, which has sweet almond oil infused with raw cacao powder. Months down the road, they have added several delicious flavours like Green Tea and Very Vanilla. You can check out the range of flavours here.

As with all lip balms, Balm Kitchen Dark Choccy Kissable Lip Balm is contained in a twist and turn tube that is handy to be around even in your tiniest bag. Passion is apparent in their products from the self-drawn logo, to the brand sticker on the packaging and to the scribbled numbers ( I guess, it is either a batch number or the manufacturing date ) written below on the lip balm. I was intrigued.

Made with all natural, plant based vegan ingredients, the shelf life of the lip balm is 1 year, as there is no water in it, hence a lesser chance of them going bad.

However, I wasn't overly impressed when I first used it, because the lip balm was stiff and dry and the chocolate scent was almost non-existent. Just a whiff, and thats it. I thought it was kinda odd, for a lip balm not being able to glide properly on my lips. I persisted, believing that local brands can't be that bad. And yes, I finally see results and is loving it.

After 1 ~ 2 weeks of using the Dark Choccy Kissable Lip Balm, the contents softened slightly and now, glides and moisturises my lips pretty well, with a better chocolate scent. Despite being brown in colour, I did not notice any brown tint on my lips after application. Non-greasy and non-sticky, it is perfect in our humid weather but note that it does coat the lips with a moisturising film for nourishment.

For the affordability and its friendly ingredients, I am keen to try out the rest of the lip-smacking flavours next time. I previously bought mine, in a bundle set of a lip balm and a body balm for $14.90. You can get the lip balm separately at $5.90.

Alternatively, you can CLICK HERE to get 15% off all their products. I don't get a commission out of this, but I will get 15% off Balm Kitchen products, if you use my link which is a pretty odd way as a reward. The link expires on 2nd Jan 2018. So be quick!


Ingredients:
Prunus amygdalus dulcis (sweet almond) oil, Cocos nucefera (coconut) oil*, Theobrama cacao (cocoa) seed butter*, Mangifera indica (mango) butter, Euphorbia cerifera (candelilla) wax, Simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, Ricinus communis (castor) seed oil, Theobrama cacao (chocolate), Tocopherols (vitamin E)

Source : Balm Kitchen 

Review : Nature Republic Given By Nature Argan Aqua Gel Mask

Product Description
Moisturizing and firming aqua gel mask. Spain's argan oil treats skin and provides elasticity.

Main Ingredients : 
Lactobacillus fermentation, gold extract, green tea extract, aeyeop extract, houttuynia cordata extract, argan tree oil

A dear friend has helped to get the Nature Republic Given By Nature Argan Aqua Gel Mask in a 10 sheets pack direct from Korea. The aqua gel mask is separated into 2 parts - one for the upper portion of the face and the other for the lower portion of the face. The material is slightly rubbery and slippery so it makes handling slightly messier.

The refreshing and cooling sensation makes it a comfortable masking experience and the argan oil contents hydrate the rough areas on my skin, making it smooth and moisturised till the following morning.
However, at times, there is itchiness at the sides near to the ears, if the mask is layered on the skin for too long.

Source : koreadepart

Review : MG Cool Water Dynamic Hydrating Eye Mask

MG is relatively unheard of, in Singapore, but it was easily available in Watsons China. Priced affordably, I bought 3 different packs with different properties and MG Cool Water Dynamic Hydrating Eye Mask is for hydration purposes on the eye area.

Last April, L'Oreal closed a deal to acquire Magic Holdings International Ltd, the chinese owner of the MG brand of beauty products, knowing that " Skincare to China is what Makeup to USA "(WSJ) so that explains its strong presence in China, mainly in Watsons and Mannings.
The MG line is the leading mask brand in China, according to research company China Industry Research in Beijing. (source)

Containing 3 individually packed sheets in each pack, each pair of the cresent moon patches is generous in size and covers up to almost the crow feet area and half of the cheeks area.

For the benefit of those who are not able to read Chinese, the description on the back says its recommended to use the eye mask daily for up to 5 days where you can see radiance and thereafter, use it twice a week where you will see smoothing and firming effect.

In winter, you can soak the mask in water with 50 degrees temperature for 5 minutes before using it. In summer, you can place it in the fridge for coldness before using it. Use the eye mask for a recommended 15 ~ 20 minutes treatment.

As with most eye masks, MG Cool Water Dynamic Hydrating Eye Mask is refreshing and relaxing after a tired day but there is no significant benefit to the undereye area.