Review : Sierra Bees Organic Honey Lip Balm

Product Description

• USDA Organic
• Certified Organic By Oregon Tilth
• Non-GMO Vitamin E Derived From Sunflower Seed Oil
• Our Lip Balms Are Not Made With Ingredients That Contain Gluten
• Organic Compliant Natural Flavors Do Not Contain MSG

Sierra Bees Organic Honey Lip Balm was a complimentary gift that comes together with one of my Iherb purchases. The cute packaging with its cheery yellow colour is a welcome sight on my office table, igniting happy memories. 

With a typical twist and turn tube, the lipbalm is easy to apply and glides well with its waxy texture. It has no colour and does not feel sticky or greasy. While it does makes my lips feel soft and nourished but but does not hydrate my lips very well under the harsh air-conditioning office. 

Quote OKI787 to get up to US$10 off your first purchase on Iherb. 

Ingredients :

Extra virgin olive oil*, beeswax*, flavor, sunflower seed oil*, non GMO vitamin E, honey extract*.

*Organic

Click Here For More Reviews And Purchase Details

Review : Jane Carter Solutions Curl Defining Cream

Product Description
Composed of shea butter, avocado and jojoba oil, this versatile cream elongates tight curls and defines looser curls without leaving any residue. It adds incredible shine, dries soft to the touch and is perfect for wash-and-wear curls.

Vegan, paraben free and hair color safe, Jane Carter Solutions Curl Defining Cream contains 98% natural ingredients and is said to define curls, leaving it shiny and bouncy without any crunch. It even has bold claims that one is able to use it several times on the hair without the need to shampoo. I know I can never do that because I can't stand dirty hair on my pillows where my face is going to lie on. 

I was shopping for curling hair cream and chanced upon this on Iherb. Contained in a big yellow tub with a scent that doesn't smell too natural, Jane Carter Solutions Curl Defining Cream has a slightly runny but creamy texture that is easy to apply on the hair, twist and go.

I usually like to spray a moisturising mist on the hair, before using any types of curling cream and Jane Carter Solutions Curl Defining Cream works pretty well on damp hair than on dry hair. It defines the curls and waves without weighing it down and does not leave my hair feeling dry, greasy or crunchy. It has a slight stickiness to it but none too overbearing. 

My hair looks and feels moisturised, soft to the touch and holds the curls well. Quote OKI787 to get up to US$10 off your first purchase.

Ingredients :
Purified water, extracts of anthemis nobilis flower (chamomile), symphytum officinale leaf (comfrey), equisetum arvense (horsetail), urtica dioica (nettle), rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf, humulus lupulus (hops), of butyrospermum parkii (shea butter), simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, persea gratissima (avocado) oil, behentrimonium methosulfate, cetyl alcohol, glyceryl stearate, tocopherol (natural vitamin E), glycerin, citric acid, hydroxyethylcellulose, ceteareth 20, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl, glycol, sorbic acid, fragrance.

Review : Source Naturals Skin Eternal DMAE Firming Body Lotion

Product Description
DMAE has been shown to increase skin firmness. Experience its skin firming and nourishing benefits in a full body lotion. This luxurious, lightly scented and easily absorbed lotion moisturizes skin without an oily or greasy feel. Paraben-free, it includes premium, age-defiant ingredients for beautiful skin: alpha lipoic acid, ascorbyl palmitate (C-Ester), aloe vera leaf juice and a light green tea scent. Discover DMAE for supple, replenished skin.

As age creeps up, I have been incorporating firming or hydrating body lotion into my body care routine which I used to neglect when I was young. Source Naturals Skin Eternal DMAE Firming Body Lotion goes into my shopping cart after I read about its positive reviews on Iherb.

I usually prefer to use it in the night or after exercise, all in the comfort in my bathroom after a refreshing bath. It is always recommended to use moisturiser on damp skin so that it will absorb well into the skin.

With a subtle green tea scent, this firming body lotion feels like a regular body lotion with a lotion texture that is lightweight and runny. I thought it absorbs well but I was mistaken. In the following morning, I can feel a layer of film on wet skin during my bath. It is as though the lotion forms a coat on the upper layer of my skin that only cleanses off during my next bath. This happens when I applied too much at times. 

Despite using it consistently for 3 months, I fail to see an improvement on my skin texture and it is highly unlikely that I will re-purchase the item.

Ingredients :
Deionized water, glycerin (humectant), DMAE bitartrate, glyceryl stearate and PEG 100 stearate (emulsifier), butylene glycol (humectant), sweet almond oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride (emollient), cetearyl alcohol and
ceteareth-20 (emulsifier), stearic acid, cetyl alcohol, aminomethyl propanol, safflower seed oil, phenoxyethanol (preservative), benzyl alcohol (preservative), fragrance, ascorbyl palmitate, tocopheryl acetate, lecithin, chamomile flower extract, panthenol, grapefruit seed extract, ginkgo leaf extract, panax ginseng root extract, alpha-lipoic acid, retinyl palmitate and aloe vera leaf juice.

Contains tree nuts (almond) and soy.

Source : Iherb

Innisfree Eco Science White C Program With Pure Tangerine Peel & Green Complex Facial Mask

Product Description
This white C mask enriched with abundant moisture creates a transparent and clear skin with the help of Jeju organic tangerine peel. Intensive treatment program consisted of melting ampoule film + stretching mask

Innisfree Eco Science White C Program With Pure Tangerine Peel and Green Complex Facial Mask comes to the rescue after I have been under the scorching hot sun for several hours, as part of a funeral service recently. It also led to the cancellation of my upcoming Sydney/Melbourne trip which is something that we have foresee but unable to avoid. Nevertheless, I was glad to be there to see my grandmother-in-law last moment as I have missed out on my paternal grandparents. It was a tearful moment as she let out her last breath and was gone just like that.

It has been a pleasant experience using all 3 sheets on alternate days because they are very different from the norm. Each sheet mask contains 2 separate packs in 1 packaging. You have to tear off the upper portion titled as Step 1 where 4 clear circles with adhesive known as the melting ampoule film, are to be pasted on those areas of concerns. For all 3 times of usages, I mainly paste them on my cheeks where there is a slight pigmentation as well as the nose and chin/forehead. The film is pretty thin and soft so beware of tearing them as it is prone to tears.

The step 2 packaging consists of a sheet mask to be layered over the skin and hence the ampoule films are covered. It is said that the films will melt but I notice the one on my nose never seem to melt fully while the rest do, so I after I tear off the sheet mask, I just it to rub it gently on the ampoule until it melts. The cutting of the sheet mask has a smaller lip area cut-out and tiny eye flaps that barely cover my eye area but made of a sturdy cloth material that adheres tightly to the skin.

Skin looks clear, fresh and rested with a subtle brightening glow that did not last beyond the next morning.

Source : InnisfreeM

Review : Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Instant Eye Lift Algae Mask

Product Description
Instantly give eyes a revived, brightened and lifted look with this revolutionary system to dramatically transform eyes’ appearance in 10 minutes. The Instant Eye Lift is a two step process allowing the STEM CELLULAR™ Activator Fluid and pure marine algae Eye Mask to perform at the highest level of potency. Antioxidants and nutrients from the algae biomatrix masks are triggered when combined with the Activator Fluid, resulting in reduced appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and puffiness, leaving your eye area brightened and refreshed.

Benefits :
- Concentrated algae biomatrix technology is a great skincare alternative to cotton masks, which can be heavily penetrated with pesticide residue (classified by our government as "known, probable or likely" carcinogens)
and then subsequently processed with harsh chemicals (acephate, dichloropropene, diuron, fluometuron, pendimethalin, tribufos, and trifluralin). Pressed algae not only provides great skincare benefits but prevents pesticide laden cotton from being placed around the delicate eye tissue.

- Reduces the appearance of puffiness around eyes with organic cucumber, white tea, and arnica extracts.
- Brightens with Vitamin C.
- Has a firming effect on the delicate eye area and fights free radicals with a proprietary blend of apple, grape and lemon fruit stem cells infused into resveratrol-rich grapeseed.
- Hydrates and refreshes with organic aloe and algae.
- Encourages supple skin texture with hyaluronic acid and chamomile.

Bellabox was having a promotion, with 70% off their products and I took the chance to get a box of the Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Instant Eye Lift Algae Mask which was a steal at just $49.60 instead of the original $124. On their website, it retails at US$75 for 6 pairs. Still expensive to me.

Each box contains 6 sets of pure marine algae Eye Masks (12 total) and 6 Activator Fluid capsules which was a thoughtful combination, where you use only when you need it. There were times when I open the other brands'
packaging, only to be disappointed with dry eye patches, hence I really welcome this working mode from Juice Beauty though some might find it a hassle.

Juice Beauty’s STEM CELLULAR™ Instant Eye Lift Algae Mask is made without parabens, petroleum, propylene or butylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfates, pesticides, phthalates, artificial dyes or synthetic fragrances. Their products are also never tested on animals. 

This box of eye masks is recommended for those with signs of aging including fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage and also for the following scenarios.

When to use it :
Girls Night Out
While primping and prepping, apply the STEM CELLULAR ™ Instant Eye Lift Algae Mask for a bright-eyed look throughout the night.

At-Home Spa Day
For a pampering pick-me-up, apply the STEM CELLULAR ™ Instant Eye Lift Algae Mask while relaxing in a soaking bath.

Anyone, Anytime
To wake up tired, dry eyes, apply the STEM CELLULAR ™ Instant Eye Lift Algae Mask for a refreshed look.

Mommy’s Little Helper
Get ready for the day ahead, apply the STEM CELLULAR ™ Instant Eye Lift Algae Mask to de-puff and brighten eyes and save time on your beauty routine.

Perfect Travel Partner
To conquer jet lag, apply the STEM CELLULAR ™ Instant Eye Lift Algae Mask for a revitalized look upon arrival.

Each individually packed foil pack contained a pair of a large cresent-moon shaped eye mask that is dry with a soft cottony material. Pour a vial of Activator fluid on each pair of the eye masks in their original tray for soaking and apply them to the undereye area for 10 minutes after they have been fully saturated in the fluid.

The scent smells funny, neither offensive nor sweet-smelling but I have no issue with it since the scent does not linger for long. However, the eye masks can be a tad messy to use as the essence just keep dripping all over my cheeks non-stop for up to 15minutes. It feels slightly sticky hence my cheeks feel tacky as well, which made me clear my cheeks with water every now and then. Lying down, while using the mask makes it slightly better but the essence still drips. 

Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Instant Eye Lift Algae Mask is said to lift, contour, plump and hydrate the undereye area. I use it for up to 20 minutes and the area under my eyes look less tired and more refreshed. However, the fine lines are still apparent and there is no difference to the dark circles or eye bags.

With the steep price that it costs, I expect better performance but sadly, it doesn't deliver on my terrible undereye area.

Review : Deep Steep Brown Sugar Vanilla Body Scrub

Product Description
Deep Steep's Sugar Scrub offers a one-step beauty ritual for exfoliating your skin. Leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and irresistible to the touch. Deep thoughts...the sweet smell of vanilla was used by the ancient Mayans as an aphrodisiac and spirit lifter.

While shopping for body scrub on Iherb, Deep Steep packaging looks lovely enough to capture my attention and I just pop one into my shopping cart. Brown sugar and vanilla combination screams yummy to me and I couldn't resist it, just wondering how delicious it would be. Unfortunately, that fantasy is broken after I started using it. 

In a small portable white container as shown above, it opens up to reveal yellow balm-like texture that is very sticky. And I thought it will be brownish scrub bits with vanilla and brown sugar fragrance. But it is not. 

Deep Steep Brown Sugar Vanilla Body Scrub has a very sweet scent that lingers on the skin for awhile after bath. The balmy textured scrub does not have any grainy bits but just spread out on the body like a sticky mess as you try to exfoliate them on your skin. It left my skin feeling greasy and sticky, which I then use my shower gel for the 2nd time, just to get rid of that tacky feeling. 

For some peeps, it probably feel like a moisturising veil on the skin but I totally dislike that unclean feeling. I didn't feel that my skin is properly exfoliated with a super smooth feeling which I was expecting so I will not get any Deep Steep sugar scrubs again. 

Deep Steep products are cruelty-free, gluten free, vegan and does not contain parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, mineral oil, artificial fragrances and chemical preservatives. 
You can quote OKI787 to get up to US$10 for your first purchase. 

Ingredients :
Sucrose, vanilla planifolia fruit extract, butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, organic cocoa nucifera (coconut) oil, aroma (organic and wildcrafted aroma blend), rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract

Source : Deep Steep , Iherb

Review : For Beloved One Melasleep Whitening Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Bio-Cellulose Mask

Product Description
For Beloved One Melasleep Whitening Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Bio-Cellulose Mask is the first bio-Cellulose Mask in the world which provides similar effect as iontophoresis treatment but is also extremely skin friendly and fits skin perfectly, allowing maximum essence absorption. It contains highly stable and gentle whitening ingredient Ethyl Ascorbic which penetrates into the deep skin layers to control melanin formation. In addition, it also contains Melaslow which reduces melanin formation and brightens the skin tone. A patented anti-allergenic ingredient, Anasensyl LS9322, is added to strengthen skin's defence and boost skin health

In Singapore, Sephora sells 3 pieces for $63, which is extremely expensive. Luckily, one of my good friends got it at NT199 for a piece in Taipei and bought it for me. I use it recently after being in the sun for several hours from following the coffin in the car to seeing the burial ground as part of a Taoist funeral procession, which was an eye-opener for me.

Made of an unique Bio-Cellulose material that has a slightly glooey and slippery texture than a normal cloth mask, For Beloved One Melasleep Whitening Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Bio-Cellulose Mask has shorter eye flaps and slightly longer nose flap in its cutout, provides an immediate cooling sensation but still adheres well and clings to the skin for enhanced absorption of the essence. It is protected within a protective layer and is moist enough to provide ample moisture and a subtle brightening effect.

After a 20 minute treatment, my skin looks much fresher, clearer, slightly brighter and feels hydrated and smooth. Money well spent at NT199!

Where To Purchase : Amazon | Shopee

For Beloved One Flawless Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Bio-Cellulose Facial Treatment Mask

For Beloved One Hyaluronic Acid GHK-Cu Moisturizing Bio-Cellulose Facial Treatment Mask

For Beloved One Melasleep Brightening Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Bio-Cellulose Mask ( Shopee )

For Beloved One Hyaluronic Acid GHK-Cu Moisturizing Bio-Cellulose Mask ( Shopee ) 

Review : Kahina Giving Beauty 100% Organic Argan Oil

Product Description
At Kahina, we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality, certified organic and fair trade argan oil, delivered fresh in small batches directly from the source. Extremely rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants, argan oil has been shown to minimize fine lines, restore elasticity, improve skin tone, soothe irritation, neutralize free radicals that cause signs of aging and protect the skin from harmful environmental agents. Light and non-greasy, argan oil absorbs easily, instantly giving skin a radiant glow.

Usage :
• Apply 1-3 drops (as needed) to face morning and evening after cleansing to replenish lost moisture
• Use as a body oil
• Use it on hair to restore shine and relieve frizz
• Use on hands to treat everyday dryness
• Treat skin conditions naturally

I received a 10ml sample sachet size of the 100% Organic Argan Oil with my last Kahina Giving purchase from Charis Naturals. I use it sparingly for 5 days since the full retail sizes are so much more expensive. 

You may have notice the varying prices for the touted Argan Oil sold online. According to Kahina Giving, what makes theirs so special is the method of production and argan nut selection, which ensures the nutrient density and top quality of the oil. It is said that the founder Katherine L'Heureux visits the cooperatives where the oil is produced to ensure top quality oil and fair wages for the women workers. You can read more about it here, on the several factors that set itself apart from the inexpensive Argan Oil in the market.

100% pure Eco Cert organic argan oil is the single clean ingredient that delivers on it's anti aging promises. Beneficial for an array of skin types including, combination, dry, dehydrated, mature, sensitive, and oily. This is the perfect oil for those in search of balancing out their skin's oil production without losing on anti-aging benefits. Oily skin types can use this easily absorbed oil to bring balance without dryness or feeling heavy. 

Argan oil, a complex mixture of chemical compounds like fatty acids (80%), polyphenoles, antioxidants, carotenoids and other acids has been shown to minimize fine lines, restore elasticity, improve skin tone, soothe irritation, neutralize free radicals that cause signs of aging and protect the skin from harmful 
environmental agents. It can also be used on hair, nails, and skin alike making it perfect for those 
seeking a simple routine with minimal ingredients.

Lightweight, non-greasy and being able to get absorbed easily into the skin are factors that made me fall in love with this 100% Argan Oil from Kahina Giving. It is highly recommended to be used on damp skin, as I feel that it works more effectively this way. The following morning, I can see that my skin looks dewy and radiant. In fact, my skin which is normally oily on the T-zone after I woke up doesn't appear to be so, on nights that I apply the argan oil.

Get yours from Amazon

Ingredients :
Argania spinosa (argan) kernel oil*

*Ingredient from Organic Farming Natural and Organic cosmetic certified by ECOCERT Greenlife according to ECOCERT Standard available at cosmetics.ecocert.com

Source : kahina

Review : Orbis Whipped Soda Pack

Product Description
Orbis Whip Soda Pack is a cleansing mask that assembles mask and cleansers together in one go! It has a whip cream like texture with rich foam that helps to remove the excess sebum and dead cells that formed while you sleep. The soda properties contained in the formula allows rich foam to be generated and beauty ingredients to be absorbed easily. It covers the whole face acting like a protecting layer to avoid temperature loss. Addition of ginger extracts to boost blood circulation, royal jelly and collagen to provide nourishment to the skin and to regain elasticity. This facial mask helps to correct dull skin and increase translucency of your skin.

Orbis Whipped Soda Pack seems to be taking forever to be used up. At 100g, I use it once a week for the past couple of months but the bottle still has more than 50% left. Just an estimate from the shaking of the aluminium can, since the bottle is opaque.


Housed in a air-pressure bottle, much like how a hair mousse is contained, you depress it and the mousse comes out like a big whipped cream ready to be decorated on the cake. Just a tiny depression will do, because I took several tries to get the feel right, since every tiny depression dispenses too much contents than what my face really needs.

Made in Japan, oil-free, fragrance-free, free of artifical colors and allergy-tested, this whipped soda pack is an interesting and fun concept and I enjoyed using it initially. The cream is white in colour, soft and moussy-like with an airy texture. You slathered the thick cream and spread it out on the face. There is a slight spicy and warm sensation, but nothing overbearing. 

However, because it is drying on my face and on my hands with a squeaky clean feeling after rinsing it off, I don't use it frequently. It can also be pretty cumbersome to rinse it off because the cream is thick so it takes awhile to get the gunk off the face.

When I first purchase the pack from Orbis Robinson Orchard branch, I was told that this is a facial mask pack so I was pleasantly surprised that it can be used as a morning cleanser too. A minute is all it takes to work its magic on the skin. However, I have yet to use it as a cleanser since it is drying on my skin. 

The ingredient list is not stated on my bottle, but a search on the net reveals this where alcohol is one of the listed ingredient, ginger which provides an explanation why it gives me this "spicy" sensation and collagen and royal jelly for moisturisation.

There is no whitening effect or any spectacular difference to my skin. Just a fresh and clean feeling.

Source : P2Bus

Review : La Clinica Sensitive Skin Soothing Moisture Replenishing Mask

Product Description
A rich, replenishing moisture mask to restore hydration and softness to all skin types. Packed with natural goodness to form a protective layer to help skin retain suppleness. Ideal for skin that has been exposed to temperature extremes (sun, snow, wind, air conditioning and heating). Use as a body butter when skin is extra dry and in need of a powerfully hydrating treatment.

Active Ingredient:
EPT (Enhanced Penetration Technology) - Helps to enhance permeation:
ensuring bioavailibility of actives. Developed to enhance and ensure the efficacy of active ingredients.

I picked up the La Clinica Sensitive Skin Soothing Moisture Replenishing Mask, along with several other 
rinse-off masks during the last Luxasia sale. Prior to this, I have heard of the brand but has never use 
their products or even has the urge to try it out. However, at the sale, the 100ml was marked down to just $10, which is an incentive for me to get it, especially since my facial masks were running low in supply that time and
the words "Soothing" and "Moisture" are just screaming for my attention.

Made in Australia, LA CLINICA FOR SKIN and BODY is a cosmeceutical skin care line with a focus on visible 
results, efficacy, safety and organic ingredients. Its luxurious, high performance products are said to cater to all
skin types and conditions. LA CLINICA also offers professional “practitioner only” treatment products for 
medi-spas, doctors, specialised clinics, spas and skin care therapists.

It is 100% Australian owned and operates its own certified organic, skin care manufacturing facility in 
Melbourne, Australia. All ingredients used are of the highest quality. With its use of maximum recommended 
doses of cosmeceutical actives and vitamins, the products are highly effective yet gentle. Natural, plant-derived, certified organic ingredients are used wherever possible – therapeutic actives, botanical extracts, essential oils, vegetable oils and waxes. The 100ml size costs $45AUD on their website. You can read more about the brand here.

White and creamy, the mask spreads easily like a lightweight cream mask. It is said to soothe, soften and 
moisturises the skin with Boswellic Acid to calm skin and shea butter to replenish softness. 
Unfortunately, the facial mask does not really hydrate my skin. The flakiness are still apparent after each treatment. In terms of soothing the redness, it does help slightly, but not totally. It provides a cooling and calming sensation on sensitive red skin with a subtle improvement to the skin redness. 

The rinsing part can be a tad troublesome because the mask is creamy and slippery which makes using water 
a few times more difficult to get it off the skin. I usually prefer to use a cotton pad to cleanse the 
contents off the skin before rinsing off with water. Note that the recommendation for using this facial mask is not to rinse the skin at all, but just remove with a dry La Clinica facial cloth.
I didn't follow through with this instruction so perhaps it may have interfere with how my skin reacts to the facial mask.

As a personal preference, I dislike turning in to bed with a creamy texture on the face. Its just tacky. After rinsing off the mask, my skin feels soothed and calmed immediately but not as hydrated as what I would like. 

Source : LaClinica