Review : Talika Eye Dream


Product Description
Talika Eye Dream relaxes the eye contour while providing it with regenerative ingredients to contribute to the rejuvenation of the skin and hydrating ingredients to ensure optimum moisturizing from the moment you drift off to the minute you awake.

What happens at night:
Sleep is often considered an underrated and ignored wellness necessity of life.
However, if decay, degradation, breakdown (called "catabolism") is maximal during the day (when awaken), renewal (called "anabolism") is maximal during certain phases of sleep.
Sleep is the body in recovery mode. It is the time when the body seeks out all available amino acids, and other micro nutrients to make new material essential to the rebuild its strengh.
In addition, night time is a period during which the eye contour loses more than 50% of its moisture.

How does eye dream works:
Talika Eye Dream® acts in 3 ways:
- it relaxes the eye contour (to calm down the under eye skin);
- it provides regenerative ingredients to contribute to the rejuvenation of the skin;
- it ensure optimum moisturizing from the moment you drift off to the minute you awake.

I purchased the 15ml Talika Eye Dream on Strawberrynet for about $25 when there was a sale.
Talika is known to produce many different eye care products but I have never try their products before until this Eye Dream. It is a disappointment as with many eye care products I owned.

Containing dipeptides, soy proteins and horse chestnut extract, Eye Dream is said to regenerate cells deep down to prevent the formation of laugh lines and decongest the eye contour, slowing signs of aging to a stop in 28 days. Bold claims? It is. Afterall, a good eyecare product usually takes more than a month to deliver its promises.

And so I weave the wand on my undereye area for 3 months. Shaped like a long mascara tube, there is a connected metal spatula with a cooling rollerball on top where you just press on the base to get the lightweight cream out and gently tap around the eye contour area. It usually dispenses more than what my fragile eye skin can take it, so I tend to use my fingers to massage the cream till it gets absorbed, with the fear that any excess may result in millia seeds.

Said to be an eye mask for the night, I mainly use it like an eye cream before I sleep, since the texture is thin and lightweight, more like an eye gel than an eye mask. The fragrance is strong but the texture is non-greasy or sticky, however it does not provide any improvement to my undereye area.

Ingredients :
aqua (Water), tilia cordata linden water, glyceryl polymethacrylate, citrus aurantium dulcis (Orange) flower water, propylene glycol, zea mays (Corn Starch), butylene glycol, trilinolein, sodium hydroxyde, polysorbate 20, carbomer, dextrin, hydrolyzed soy protein, aesculus hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) extract, parfum (Fragrance), triolein, tripalmitin, phenoxyethanol, methylparaben, chlorphenesin, triilinolenin, tetrasodium EDTA, fucus vesiculosus, laureth-3, tristearin, hydroxyethylcellulose,
Source : Talika

Apivita Body Nourish Bath and Shower Gel



Product Description
Moisturizing, creamy bath and shower gel that nourishes and improves the elasticity of dry skin. Unique scent and formula rich in plant oils and essential oils for extra body and mood toning.
  • Saponaria and mild cleansing agents cleanse the skin by creating consistent foam and without causing irritations.
  • Almond oil, avocado oil and olive oil moisturize and nourish the skin by providing it with elasticity and protection.
  • Organic neroli, lavender, rosewood and geranium essential oils contribute to skin recovery, while offering relaxation, relief and tranquility.
  • Organic witch hazel infusion offers antioxidant and astringent action, improves blood circulation and has antiseptic and antibacterial attributes.
  • Styrax essential oil emphasizes the floral, fresh and ambery scent of the bath and shower gel.
The 75ml bottle of Apivita Body Nourish Bath and Shower Gel for dry skin costs me 3.20Euro in Greece. Containing 96% natural ingredients, the formula does not contain SLES, parabens, silicones, mineral oil, propylene glycol, ethanolamines and phthalates and the water is replaced by organic hammelis infusion to give its products antioxidant attributes.

With almond, avocado and olive oils to deliver moisture and loaded with neroli, lavender and olive oil aid to promote skin regeneration and restoration, the shower gel is said to soothe tension while enlivening the spirit.

The scent is rather odd, something I didn't quite like although it didn't affect me that much. The gel feels smooth and silky during lathering but feels slightly drying as it creates a coat of film on the skin. Coming from Apivita, I will expect the formula to be superior but it is disappointing and doesn't really deliver what it says.

Source : Apvita

Review : Glamglow Brightmud Eye Treatment


Product Description
BRIGHTMUD® Single-Use Sealed Chrome Cells with TAPWipe Bioactive Technology. The World's First TAP ON + WIPE OFF Reverse Action Under Eye and Orbital Eye Treatment. Designed for Instant 3-Minute Results. For Men and Women of All Ages and All Skin Types. BRIGHTMUD® for your New Super Bright Super Sexy Eyes

Active Ingredients :

TEAOXI® PEPPERMINT LEAF

Active TEAOXI® Peppermint Technology activates sensory TRPM8 COLD COMPRESSION to seriously de-puff eyes. With soothing Mentone and Menthyl Ester Fatty-Acids, Botanical Mint with Vitamin C and A helps skin look noticeably smoother and brighter. Our cool, refreshing and revitalizing powerful natural active is for fatigue circulation and a super-bright finish.

NITROFFEINE™

Formula for Under Eye and Orbital lymphatic stimulation and skin fatigue reduction, providing an immediate temporary ‘Zing’ sensation. With Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen and Oxygen, our New Secret Percentage Mix of Caffeine Molecules from around the World are infused together for amazing Awakening and Fatigue Reduction. Experience the most powerful, incredible actives.

TAPWIPE™

Non-Dry TapWipe Bioactive consists of natural high bioactivity materials and bentonites, which adsorb toxins and deliver high nutrients and minerals. TAP-ON to deliver our range of Active Ingredients into the skin and then WIPE-OFF product transport ingredients. Experience an extended frost-cooling sensation to reveal Super Bright Gorgeous Eyes.

JUVELANE™

Active 5% Juvelane a Powerful New Dimension of Revolutionary Titan-molecules, designed to activate retinol-like activity without the disadvantages and Innovative molecular Cyclic Peptide designed for instant and visible results.
  • Dihydroxymethylchromone - An Amazing Molecule Increasing Collagen Synthesis and Reducing It's Breakdown.
  • Cyclicpeptide - The First Homodetic Cyclic Peptide With Innovative Molecules To Fight The Signs Of Aging
  • Troxerutin - A Naturally Based Based Bioflavonoid, Noticeably Increasing Insufficient Capillary Microcirculation.
  • Ectoin - A Revolutionary Highly Concentrated Protector and Booster For Faster Repair and Defense.
After hearing much raves about Glamglow products being used by celebrities, naturally I snagged its Glamglow Brightmud Eye Treatment when there was a 20% Sephora discount last year at $73.60, instead of the usual $92. GlamGlow relies heavily on the perception of being a “Hollywood Secret” and a must-have product line for celebrities which raises up all the hype surrounding this Brightmud Eye Treatment product.

Each box of Glamglow Brightmud Eye Treatment contains 12 individually packed pods which reminds one of a daily disposable contact lens pack - one compartment for each eye, similar to how the contact lens pack is.



Formulated without parabens, sulphates and phthalates, this eye treatment is said to minimize puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines while brightening and hydrating the eyes. All within 3 minutes. Sounds unbelievable? It certainly does, but at $6 per mask treatment, I am willing to give it a go.

Peel off the foil from the pod and scoop out the contents out to layer it on the undereye area.
Soft and creamy in texture, the cream is like a mud formula, brown in colour with tiny grainy black and brown specks in the contents.

There is a slight tingling sensation during the initial application which seems to provide some temporary tightening effect. Cooling, comfortable and refreshing and fine lines are slightly minimized at times but that's about it. No WOW effect at all.

It is recommended to remove it with a soft tissue paper after 3 minutes and I have tried it both ways - with and without water but the results are still not as spectacular as what the expectations are.

The product scored a poor 1.5 from 11 users on Makeupalley.

Ingredients :
Aqua/Water/EAU, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Bentonite, Carbomer, Biosaccharide gum-1, Cyclotetrapeptide-24 Aminocyclohexane Carboxylate, Ectoin, Llex Paraguariensis Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Powder, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Fruit Powder, Paudllina Cupana (Guarana) Seed Powder, Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract, Llex Aquifolium (Holly) Leaf Extract, Coffee Arabica (Coffee) Seed Powder, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf, Troxerutin, Lecithin, Sorbitol, Dihydroxymethylchromone, Alcohol, Caffeine, Siloxanetriol, Alginate, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Disodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Limonene, Linalool

Source : Glamglow

Haul from Iherb, My Beauty Diary & Balm Kitchen



My mini haul from Iherb. Quote OKI787 to get up to US$10 off your first purchase.

Shikai Natural Color Care Shampoo US$5.53
Shikai Color Reflect Daily Moisture, Conditioner  US$6.22
Acure Organics 100% Certified Moroccan Argan Oil Treatment  US$9.94
The Jane Carter Solution, Curl Defining Cream  US$12.96
Source Naturals Skin Eternal, DMAE Firming Body Lotion  US$11.58


Requested My Beauty Diary eye masks from a friend who's visiting Taiwan.

MBD Puffiness Intensive Care Eye Mask
MBD Smoothness Intensive Care Eye Mask ( $13 in total for both eye masks )
For Beloved One Melasleep Whitening Mask ( costs about $8 in Taiwan as compared to $21 in Singapore ) -  a gift from a dear friend


A relatively new local brand - Balm Kitchen
The yummy flavours like chocolate and earl grey made me decided to purchase them to try it out.

Balm Kitchen Lip Balm + Relaxing Body Balm $14.90 ( bundle set )

Review : Organic Surge Tropical Bergamot Shower Gel


Product Description
Organic Surge Tropical Bergamot Shower Gel gently cleanses and moisturises your body while Organic Surge organic essential oil fragrance blend transports you to your dream desert island.
This gentle shower gel safeguards your skin's natural moisture while it cleanses. Natural antioxidant, Vitamin E and bergamot essential oil help to soothe any skin irritation while glycerine actively attracts moisture to the skin allowing it to remain soft and hydrated.

The Tropical Bergamot Shower Gel with its sweet and uplifting orange and bergamot scent, is packaged in a pink tube where the contents flow easily for lathering on the body. With its 100% natural foaming action, it is impressive that much foam is created from the lathering and is a joy to use in the bath.

100% free from SLS, parabens, synthetic fragrances and colourants, this shower gel is said to cleanses without stripping skin of its natural and protective moisture. However, I do feel that the gel texture is less moisturizing than the EO brand.

Ingredients :
*Aqua (Water), *Cocamidopropyl Betaine, *Sodium Coco-Sulfate, *Decyl Glucoside, *Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate/Lauryl Glucoside, *Coco-Glucoside, Phenoxyethanol/Benzyl Alcohol/Potassium Sorbate, *Citrus Aurantium Bergamia, *Citrus Aurantium Dulcis, *Aqua/Sucrose Laurate/Alcohol, *Glycerin (Veg), *Sodium Chloride, *Tocopherol, *Citric Acid, Limonene, Linalool.
* naturally-derived ingredient. From essential oils listed. Product colour or texture may vary slightly due to natural ingredients.

Source : biggreenmile

Schwarzkopf Extra Care Hydro Collagen Daily Treatment Spray





Product Description
The Schwarzkopf Extra Care Hydro Collagen range has been formulated to perfectly rebalance the hair’s moisture levels. The special moisturizing formula contains two key ingredients: Collagen and Hyaluronan. Collagen recovers the hair’s elasticity, making it tangle free and easy to manage; therefore leaving it with a healthy shine. And Hyaluronan recharges the hair with essential moisture without overburdening it, combating dryness and leaving your hair smooth and soft. It’s the first hair care range to use Liquid Keratin which repairs the inner structure of the hair cell as well as the hair surface with identical substances

I purchased the Schwarzkopf Extra Care Hydro Collagen Daily Treatment Spray from China, almost a year ago. I don't think the range is available in Singapore and I always feel that a treatment spray is handy on those "busy but still need to look decent" days. And adding on to the fact that because I have an oily scalp, I don't usually like to load my hair with lots of unneccessary products, weighing it down.

Housed in a baby blue bottle, the spray dispenses the milky lotion in spritz which tends to make the floor slightly oily, hence I prefer to use it in the bathroom than in the bedroom. Just be reminded to shake the bottle before use, so that the contents are mixed properly to get the desired result.

This treatment spray is perfect for those days when I need to have damp hair before I apply my curling lotion to define my curls. I usually spray it in the morning on my almost-dry hair to moisturise the hair, as well as to make it more wet before the application of the curling lotion. I can see that the curls are better defined in a natural wavy state. Hair becomes more manageable and doesn't look that dry.

Source : Schwarzkopf

Crabtree & Evelyn Pear and Magnolia Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy



Product Description
Lock in lashings of moisture with our Pear and Pink Magnolia Hand Therapy. Infused with shea butter and macadamia nut oil to condition and moisturise, this intensive cream nourishes skin so it’s noticeably smoother after each luxurious application.
  • Contains hydrating ceramides and antioxidant-rich vitamin E
  • Myrrh extract helps condition nails and cuticles
  • Formulated without mineral oil, parabens, phthalates or propylene glycol
I received a 25g of the Crabtree and Evelyn Pear and Magnolia Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy ass a Christmas gift and is soon used up right after I came back from my China trip because my hands are basically flaking from the winter weather.

Pretty pink packaging makes it a very sweet product for the ladies as a Christmas gift. The plastic packaging meant that it doesn't get that dented ugly look after much depressions, as opposed to its original metal packaging.

The sweet scent may be a bonus to others but is overpowering for my nose. With its shea butter formula, the texture is creamy without being heavy or overly greasy. You can see a slight sheen on your palms after application.

I would peg this hand therapy as being slightly more moisturising that the previous few hand creams I have used before, from the same brand, but my hands still required something stronger.




Sally Hansen Kwif Off Nail Polish Remover



Product Description
The easiest, cleanest way to remove polish from dry, brittle nails. Advanced, three-hole sponge design makes polish removal simple and fast. Advanced formula rapidly removes all traces of polish from your nails. Essential nutrients help promote healthy-looking nails and cuticles. Nails are left moisturized, healthy-looking and ready for their next nail treatment.

Sally Hansen Kwif Off Nail Polish Remover looks like it would be a convenient and fast method to remove my nail polish in a jiffy so I bought it. And surprisingly, despite being affordable, it works! Just dip the fingers into the pre-cut foam soaked with the solution and twist and brush it against the foam. Ta-da, the nail polish disappears! It even works on glitters so I really like it, because glitter nail polishes can be such a pain to remove.

It is slightly drying, probably due to acetone, but for the convenience it brings, it is worth it and beside, I hardly use nail polishes nowadays. The only sore point is, I can't use it for my toe nails.

The product scores 4.0 from 31 users on Makeupalley.

Ingredients :
ACETONE, AQUA/WATER/EAU, PARFUM/FRAGRANCE, ETHOXYDIGLYCOL, BENZYL BENZOATE, PPG-12-PEG-50 LANOLIN, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, BENZOPHENONE-3, PANTHENOL, LIMONENE, BUTYLPHENYL METHYLPROPIONAL, HEXYL CINNAMAL, LINALOOL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, BENZYL SALICYLATE, ALPHA-ISOMETHYL IONONE, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, GERANIOL, AMYL CINNAMAL, CITRONELLOL, BENZYL ALCOHOL, METHYLPARABEN, FD&C BLUE NO. 1 (CO 42090), FD&C GREEN NO. 3 (CI 42053), FD&C YELLOW NO. 5 (CI 19140)

Source : Sally Hansen

Deborah Lippmann Good Girl Gone Bad



Product Description
For when you want to take a risk but stay within your comfort zone, reach for this striking cabernet. The bold color yields to the softness of the shimmer.

And so, I chose to wear Deborah Lippmann Good Girl Gone Bad for the Chinese New Year. Being the most expensive nail polish I owned ( retails for more than $30 ) and as an amateur "nail polisher", I expect better quality.

Made in USA, Deborah Lippmann is free of Formaldehyde, Toluene and Dibutyl Phthalate and there is no animal testing involved. Despite not having the 3 bad nasties, it still has the typical but subtle nail polish scent and made my hands dry.




As a gorgeous deep red-purple shade, it seems to sparkle under light with its micro shimmers on top of its textured finishing. When I first apply on my nails, it looks "flat" and dull because I was expecting some glossiness, however I realized the full effect of the sparkles looks much better under light.

The application is not easy because the formula is thick and although 2 coats is enough to reach the opacity level I preferred, it didn't dry as quickly as I thought it would. It also seems to chip easily and over the course of the long weekend, I tend to re-apply it to conceal the chip-off.

The nail polish is easy to remove by dipping my fingers into Sally Hansen Kwik Off Moisturizing Nail Color Remover tub although it feels drying after that.

Source : Deborah Lippmann



Review : Kahina Giving Beauty Night Cream


Kahina Giving Beauty Night Cream Review

Product Description
Two of nature's most potent anti-aging ingredients — argan oil and red wine grapes — combine in this rich, restorative moisturizer. With clinically proven concentrations of resveratrol and polyphenols derived from vitis vinifera (red wine grapes), Kahina Night Cream addresses all signs of aging:
• Builds collagen to firm and lift
• Improves tone and texture for more even, radiant skin
• Minimizes appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Soothes irritation and decreases redness
• Hydrates and moisturizes for smoother, softer skin
• Protects skin from environmental free radical damage that causes further aging

After reading much raves on the brand, I decided to purchase its eye serum and received 2 sachet samples of Kahina Giving Night Cream which lasts me for slightly more than a week. I use it as a daily night cream recently.

Kahina Giving Beauty products are sensitively produced from start to finish with an eye toward cultural and environmental sustainability. All Kahina products are made with high concentrations of the highest quality certified organic argan oil and other antioxidant-rich byproducts of the argan tree in combination with the highest quality natural ingredients nature has to offer from around the world. The argan nuts are cracked by hand using centuries-old techniques by Berber women in Morocco’s argan region. The oil is then cold-pressed using modern equipment to preserve the integrity of the oil.
You can read more about the brand here.

When I first heard of this night cream, I was expecting the texture to be rich that is commonly associated with most night creams in the market. It looks rich, but is not - a light to medium buttery consistency that seems to sink into the skin leaving a slightly smooth texture in its place. And even though it contains argan oil, it is non-greasy at all.

With a light natural scent, Kahina Giving Beauty Night Cream seems to nourish my skin as I sleep, giving it a nice dewy look the following morning. I can't ascertain the long term benefits since I did not use it over a long period of time but so far, I have been impressed with the cream. Just a gentle reminder to apply with a light hand as I was overzealous during my last application, trying to squeeze every last drop, that becomes abit more heavy on my skin, resulting in light zits the following morning.

Ingredients :
aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice*, argania spinosa (argan) oil*, glyceryl stearate citrate, cetearyl alcohol, glyceryl caprylate, pichia/resveratrol ferment extract, lactobacillus ferment, helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil*, propanediol, vitis vinifera (grape) juice extract, glycerin*, water/aqua/eau, butyrospermum parkii (shea) nut butter*, sodium hyaluronate, disodium rutinyl disulfate, hordeum distichon extract, melissa officinalis extract, cetyl esters, rosa damascena (rose) flower oil*, pelargonium graveolens (geranium) leaf/flower oil*, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) flower oil*, citrus aurantium (petitgrain bigarade) leaf/bud oil, bisabolol, tanacetum annuum flower oil*, santalum spicatum (sandalwood) wood oil, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract*, sclerotium gum, p-anisic acid, xanthan gum
*Ingredient from Organic Farming
99.98% of the total ingredients are from natural origin; 78.68% of the total ingredients are from Organic Farming
Formula certified natural and Organic by ECOCERT Greenlife according to ECOCERT Standard available at cosmetics.ecocert.com

Buy Kahina Giving Beauty Night Cream.

Source : KahinaGiving



J Beverly Hills Crazy Curl Defining Styling Serum



Product Description
J Beverly Hills Crazy Curl Defining Lotion: CURL SEPARATION • TAMES FRIZZ • SHINE
Formulated with lavender botanical extracts and memory resins to encourage curl retention and defintion on naturally curly and previously permed hair. Enhances curl for fine hair and control for unruly hair.

J Beverly Hills is a relatively new brand for me, until I read about it online, about a random user heaping praise on their curling products. Subsequently, I picked up the 250ml size from Beauty Language at $25 which is considered a steep price for me, since I usually get my curling styling aids from Watsons for below $20. Made in the USA, they have a professional line, which you can check out the range here.

Beverly Hills is developed by Juan Juan, a well-known and respected stylist in the American entertainment industry and founder of the Juan Juan Salon, a ‘concept’ in Beverly Hills. It is said that
actors and actresses such as Kim Basinger, Robert de Niro, Hilary Swank en Brad Pitt are part of his clientele.

With my last hair perm with Simply Organics back in June, my curls are slowly dying but paraben-free J Beverly Curling Cream comes to the rescue to revive the curls to its wavy state. I am being realistic here, not expecting full maximum curls but some waves are better than straight hair.

The curling cream has a light scent but not the kind of lavender essential oil scent which I am used to. The white cream is dispensed through a flick top cap via a tiny hole. Initially in its full bottle, you just need to turn the bottle upside down, and the contents will ooze out. When its almost half way down, some light depressions are required to dispense them. Almost nearer to the end of the contents, maximum effort of depression is needed and I tend to open the cap instead, for better efficiency than to get the contents trickling out bit by bit.

I spread the cream on my palms and distribute where the curls are ( usually mid-section ), on damp hair. Scrunch and twist the hair in order to achieve better defined curls and volume. The cream is non-greasy and non-sticky yet manage to make my hair look more natural and wavy.




Source : sleekhair

Review : Biotherm Aquasource Deep Serum



Product Description
GLOWING SKIN STARTS WITH DEEP HYDRATION*
The precious bath of the exclusive Life PlanktonTM, rich in 35 nutrients, demonstrates unparalleled regenerative abilities on skin. For the 1st time, BIOTHERM biologists have managed to concentrate it 3X more** and associate it with mannose, a patented hydrator, to create DEEP SERUM.
This elixir is able to promote the birth of a new skin quality and create light from within.

The 7ml Aquasource Deep Serum was a complimentary gift with my last Biotherm moisturizer purchase. I brought it along to my 10D China trip and it works beautifully to provide hydration to my skin.

With its distinct Biotherm fresh scent, the serum has a light to medium consistency that appears lightweight yet provides that much needed hydration. It does not feel greasy and sinks into the skin pretty quickly. To combat the harsh winter dryness, I feel that it works better if used as a set with the essence prior to the serum application and to pair with its moisturizer thereafter.

However, the ingredient list contains alcohol as its 3rd ingredient.
               



Buy Biotherm Aquasource Deep Serum 50ml/1.69oz - All Skin Types from Amazon
Source : Biotherm

Review : My Beauty Diary Black Pearl Mask





Product Description
My Beauty Diary Black Pearl Mask provides Optimal whitening. Brightening and moisturizing.

Optimal whitening Containing rich vitamins, minerals and Amino acids, the finest Black pearl essence from Tahiti can rapidly moisturize tired and dark skin. Accompanied by hydrolyzed yeast proteins, optimal whitening extract in Vitamin C as well as the patented long-lasting moisturizing ingredient CosphingoTM, it rejuvenates the skin to its original smoothness and softness, reviving skin to its flawless, fair nature.

Brightening and moisturizing
The deep-sea Red Algae and the water-like active factor of Malvasylvestris extract can instantly release skin from dryness and enhance its adjustment to the environment. The Sugar Maple complex and the highly effective moisturizing essence in sugar cane bring intense hydration, leaving the skin translucent and moisturized.

Patented long-lasting moisturizing ingredient -CosphingoTM The patented, naturally extracted long-lasting moisturizing ingredient CosphingoTM maintains healthy skin by sealing in water for improved hydration. Dry skin is moisturized so that the skin feels soft and supple like a baby’s skin. The enhanced hydration meets the ultimate needs of the skin inside and out.

I received a box of My Beauty Diary Black Pearl Mask as a souvenir from a friend who came back from her business trip in Taiwan. Made in Taiwan, it does not contain paraben, preservatives, alcohol, mineral oils, pigments or fluorescent agents.

I first use it back in 2010 but the ingredients seem to differ slightly. With 3-D refined tailoring and texture characteristics, the new cloth mask is supposed to fit the chin perfectly, providing optimal adherence and comfort. The imported high-purity, environmentally-friendly fiber largely reduces the effects of impurities on the skin. Its elastic and adherent structure instantly infuses the skin with abundant moisture.

It still has the subtle yummy black pearl scent that I like, which reminds me of bubble tea. The material is soft and thin and while the cutting of the mask fits and adheres well, it has a large cut-out at the upper lip area, hence leaving the remaining cloth touching the lips.

Skin feels soft and moisturized after each treatment but does not last till the following morning. I didn't experience any whitening effects though.

The product scored 3.8 from 30 users on Makeupalley.

Where To Purchase : Shopee  

Ingredients :
WATER‧BUTYLENE GLYCOL‧GLYCERIN‧PROPYLENE GLYCOL‧ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE‧ SODIUM HYALURONATE‧ANANAS SATIVUS (PINEAPPLE) FRUIT EXTRACT‧CUCUMIS SATIVUS (CUCUMBER) FRUIT EXTRACT‧LAMINARIA DIGITATA EXTRACT‧HYDROLYZED YEAST PROTEIN‧TRIETHANOLAMINE‧PHENOXYETHANOL‧CHLORPHENESIN‧GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (LICORICE) ROOT EXTRACT‧CODIUM TOMENTOSUM EXTRACT‧LECITHIN‧POLYSORBATE 80‧PEG-15 HYDROXYSTEARATE‧CITRIC ACID‧HYDROLYZED CONCHIOLIN PROTEIN‧POLYSORBATE 20‧DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE‧ACER SACCHARUM (SUGAR MAPLE) EXTRACT‧CITRUS AURANTIUM DULCIS (ORANGE) FRUIT EXTRACT‧CITRUS MEDICA LIMONUM (LEMON) PEEL EXTRACT‧MALVA SYLVESTRIS (MALLOW) FLOWER EXTRACT‧SACCHARUM OFFICINARUM (SUGAR CANE) EXTRACT‧POLYGLUTAMIC ACID‧IODOPROPYNYL BUTYLCARBAMATE‧XANTHAN GUM‧CARBOMER‧FRAGRANCE‧SODIUM HYDROXIDE‧POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE‧GLYCOSPHINGOLIPIDS‧TOCOPHERYL ACETATE


Review : My Beauty Diary Luffa Mask



Product Description
My Beauty Diary Luffa Mask moisturizes and soothes your skin.
Luffa cultivated in the greenhouses of Southern Taiwan is specially selected for making this mask. The luffa essence is extracted via a patented low-temperature technique. It contains generous amounts of nutrients and moisture, the cool essence of the luffa is able to effortlessly calm down the skin temperatures within 20 minutes of use. Replenishes moisture lost to sun exposure, comforting the skin. Skin feels refreshed and moisturized after use!
Extracts of Wamin Bamboo and linseed, the treatment essence in this mask is enriched with multiple vitamins and nutrients which are capable of nourishing and moisturizing the skin. This enhances the skin’s protective function while soothing it to create translucent, healthy skin!

A friend has gotten a box of My Beauty Diary Luffa Mask sheets for me direct from Taiwan. Paraben-free, preservative-free, alcohol-free and free of fluorescent agents, the material of the sheet mask is thin and adheres well to skin, with a slightly larger nose area that extends more than my nose bridge.

Containing Luffa Extract which is said to be an antioxidant that fights free radicals, calms and moisturizes sensitive skin, it is purported to be helpful for those with sensitive skin or redness as it'll help to ease those issues.
With extracts of variety seaweed, the treatment essence in this mask is also enriched with multiple vitamin C, amino acids and other nutrients which are capable of nourishing and moisturizing the skin.
Put both together and add in patented moisturizing ingredient CosphingoTM to maintain skin’s natural state of healthiness.

Cooling and refreshing, the mask provides a comfortable feeling on the skin after each treatment. Skin feels soft and smooth. However, in terms of redness, it is not exactly effective on my skin, since I still experience redness even after removing the mask 20 minutes later.
The following morning, my skin is back to its dehydrated state.

Ingredients :
WATER‧GLYCERIN‧PROPYLENE GLYCOL‧BUTYLENE GLYCOL‧PHENOXYETHANOL‧CHLORPHENESIN‧TRIETHANOLAMINE‧SODIUM LACTATE‧BAMBUSA VULGARIS LEAF/STEM EXTRACT‧KAPPAPHYCUS ALVAREZII EXTRACT‧LINUM USITATISSIMUM (LINSEED) SEED EXTRACT‧LUFFA CYLINDRICA FRUIT/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT‧POLYSORBATE 20‧SODIUM HYALURONATE‧XANTHAN GUM‧CITRIC ACID‧CODIUM TOMENTOSUM EXTRACT‧LAMINARIA DIGITATA EXTRACT‧CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT‧DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE‧HYDROLYZED RICE PROTEIN‧LECITHIN‧ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE‧ GENTIANA LUTEA ROOT EXTRACT‧GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (LICORICE) ROOT EXTRACT‧MALVA SYLVESTRIS (MALLOW) FLOWER EXTRACT‧POLYSORBATE 80‧SACCHARUM OFFICINARUM (SUGAR CANE) EXTRACT‧ACER SACCHARUM (SUGAR MAPLE) EXTRACT‧CITRUS AURANTIUM DULCIS (ORANGE) FRUIT EXTRACT‧CITRUS MEDICA LIMONUM (LEMON) PEEL EXTRACT‧PEG-15 HYDROXYSTEARATE‧CARBOMER‧ IODOPROPYNYL BUTYLCARBAMATE‧POLYGLUTAMIC ACID‧SODIUM HYDROXIDE‧FRAGRANCE‧GLYCOSPHINGOLIPIDS‧TOCOPHERYL ACETATE

Source : Cosme-de, naturesmart

Review : Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer Hair Spray
























Product Description
•Defines flexible hold hair spray.
•Wheat protein and organic aloe blend expands when hair is wet and retracts when dry to enhance curl or wave.
•A refreshing citrus aroma with certified organic lime, lemon, bergamot, orange and other pure plant and flower essences.

During the last Luxasia sale, I purchased it for $13 which is a steal since their products are known to be expensive. Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer Hair Spray is housed in a plastic opaque bottle with a twist lock dispenser. The spray mist comes out in bursts and has a cooling sensation, probably from the high concentration of alcohol.

While this hair spray doesn't leave my hair sticky or greasy, but it does made it crunchy and slightly stiff. When my hair is freshly permed, the spray helps to define the curls slightly but when the curls are dying, this spray doesn't help at all.
I still think hair wax and mousse are more effective than this hair spray.


Source : Aveda

Review : Skin Food Blanc Pearl Caviar Cream Mask


Product Description
A cream sheet mask that contains pearl extract and white complex along with the extract of caviar, one of the world's top 3 delicacies.

Skin Food Blanc Pearl Caviar Cream Mask enveloped within a protective mesh layer is heavily fragranced. The cutting of the sheet mask fits well and adheres well to skin.

Soaked in a creamy serum that promotes soft and glowing skin, each treatment left a thin layer of milky essence on skin which requires rinsing. I brought it along for my China trip to combat the winter weather and it works well. My skin feels soft, smooth and moisturized.

Check out the price and buy SKINFOOD Blanc Pearl Caviar Cream Mask Sheet  from Amazon

Roots Colour 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
Stylist : Michelle

After 3 months, I am back to this salon, just to touch up on the roots where the greys are showing quite prominently. It is my first time to have roots touch-up, usually I will colour my hair all over again. However, I like the colour that Michelle has chosen for me, it is so natural that no one commented that I have coloured my hair. Then again, it may not be everyone's cup of tea, who will want to colour their hair without anyone noticing them?

Previously, the hair dye has left my hair in straw-like condition and flakes for a week. This time round, it cleared up after 2 days, probably due to the small area being affected by the dye this time round. Of course, I am dismayed to find my hair in the same straw-like condition and flakes but it is still manageable.
The trick is to wash the hair more thoroughly and longer than what I will usually do, though there is no guarantee that the flakes will disappear.

She charges me $55 for the 2 hours job instead of the $50 she initially offered during my first time in the salon. There is no hard-sell of hair products or treatments. I left the salon with a nice and friendly vibe, knowing this salon is just offering pure good service. It is not perfect but it suits my nature - reading the magazines at ease, without any chattering or hard-sell tactics and knowing I will not be ripped off with unnecessary packages, treatments or products.

Review : 100% Pure Nourishing Carrot Scrub




Product Description
Hydrating and nourishing facial scrub made with cucumber juice, carrot seed oil, tomato powder and avocado butter to make your complexion incredibly smooth and soft! Soothing calendula, jasmine green tea and aloe replenishes and calms the skin. Packed with anti-aging antioxidants and vitamins.

I like 100% Pure which is one of my favourite natural brands, for its awesome scents, skin-friendly ingredients and reasonable pricings. And so, with the 100% Pure shower gels purchases, I also picked up the carrot scrub since I was looking for one, at that point in time.
100% Pure Nourishing Carrot Scrub retails for $41.50 on the website but I got it for $28 where I was told that it was on 25% off. It seems like the price has increased.

The only complaint I have, is that this product has to be used up within 6 months and I barely finish 1/2 of it in the 9th month. I just find it wasteful to throw it away so I will probably be using as a neck, body or foot scrub.

It comes in a tube form and light depressions get the contents out in no time. The creamy and gentle scrub is a dream comes true for those who are afraid of abrasive and gritty facial scrubs. The smell is delicious, almost like orange danish, with a subtle hint of carrots. And the tiny beads in the creamy texture is hardly abrasive, in fact, you don't feel the exfoliation at all until you feel your skin's texture.

The first time I used it, I was really impressed, with its effectiveness. It made my skin smooth and soft without drying it out. However, with subsequent usage, the scrub seems to get less effective and sometimes I don't even get the smooth skin I was expecting to.

Due to the lack of preservatives, the carrot scrub can only lasts 6 months, which I am unable to meet. I only manage to use 1/4 of the contents in 6 months time, since I only exfoliate my face once or twice a week, depending on my skin condition.

I wanted to like this product but unfortunately, the results aren't consistent. I may give it a 2nd chance or may just look for another one, but I really like this carrot scrub for being gentle and almost effective. It is also 100% Natural, 100% Vegetarian and Gluten free

Ingredients
Organic Rosa Centifolia Flower Water (Rose Hydrosol)*, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Cucumis Sativus Fruit (Cucumber Juice), Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Jojoba Esters (Jojoba Beads), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Sodium Ascorbate (Vitamin C) and Organic Cera Alba (Beeswax)*, Extracts of: Punica Granatum (Pomegrante), Vitis Vinifera (Grapeseed) Seed, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato Powder) Fruit/Leaf/Stem, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Leaf, Organic Camelia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf**, Origanum Vulgare (Oregano) Leaf, Lavendula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf, Hydrastis Ganadensis (Goldenseal) and Lonicera Caprifolium (Japanese Honeysuckle). Hamamelis Virginiana Water (Witch Hazel). Citric Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Sweet Orange) Peel Oil, Citral**, Limonene**, Linalool** and Mel (Honey) *
Certified Organic, **component of natural essential oil

Source : 100% Pure