Happy 2017, Folks!

As the year 2016 comes to an end, its time to reflect on what 2016 has been for you.

And in the blink of an eye, 365 days flew just like that. Its been a good year for me - not in the monetary sense, in fact that dipped quite a bit as I was indulging in what I like to do, on a personal level.

I have been spending my time, pursuing on some personal interest and I feel happy every morning. However, that also meant that I will need to sacrifice something in return for that - which is moolah.

But when I think of how life is so short and fragile, sometimes making myself happy is the most important thing on earth.

Hoping that 2016 has been an awesome year for you! Lets wish for 2017 to be an even better year for all of us.

Signing off with my favourite song from the late George Michael. RIP.

The Top 5 Products I Love In 2016

As the year is coming to an end, its time to bring a closure to my 2016 reviews.

Ta-da, presenting my 2016 favourites.....only 5 loves out of the 97 products tested and reviewed in this year alone. That said, what works for me, may not necessarily works for you. However, I am loving these 5 products and has repurchased 2 of them.

(1) RMS "Un"Powder

I am using the 2nd tub now. Its sheer finishing powder may not be everyone's favourite but I like the natural soft focus look which I use it everyday for work. Get yours from my favourite website or buy from Amazon.

Merry Christmas 2016, Folks!

I will be off for a break and resume in 2 weeks' time. May this Christmas be a season of love and giving for all of you.

To Get Longer Hair : Avoid These 5 Food

1) Processed Sugars

Everyone knows that processed sugars are bad for your skin, but did you know that it can harm your hair as well? Sugary foods cause insulin levels to rise, which in turn increases androgen. Androgen (a male hormone) is known to shrink hair follicles, which translates into weak and fine hair strands.

2) Juice Cleanse

When you’re on a juice “cleanse”, the high-sugar diet will increase insulin and androgen levels. Plus, there’s no way you can get enough protein and fibre with an all-juice diet. Juice cleanses have not been proven to rid your body of “toxins” and can do more harm than good, so please stick to a well-balanced healthy diet instead.

ASOS, Iherb, Robinsons, Japan Skin Haul

I purchased these items during the Black Friday weekend when there was some discounts going on.

From ASOS :
Yes To Cucumbers Soothing Body Wash 4 pounds ( down from 5 pounds )
Yes to Blueberries Ultra Hydrating Body Wash 4 pounds ( down from 5 pounds )
Yes to Blueberries Smooth and Shine Shampoo 4 pounds ( down from 5 pounds )
Yes to Blueberries Smooth and Shine Conditioner 4 pounds ( down from 5 pounds )

I received these products in 2 weeks time. I actually thought I got a good deal from the 20% storewide discount until I checked it recently and realized their prices were slashed even further to 3.5 pounds. *sob*

From Iherb :
Giovanni Hot Chocolate Body Scrub S$12.17
Acure Organics Sensitive Skin Body wash S$10.39

Use my code OKI787 to get up to US$10 off your first purchase. Its always a pleasure to shop in Iherb because of its attractive prices and you get them in just 1 week.

From Asterspring :
Davines Nourishing Illuminating Cream S$12 ( down from S$28 )

This was not part of the Black Friday weekend purchase. It was a Christmas promotional product during the Christmas month in Asterspring.

Happy that Robinsons has prepared some skincare samples for Robinson members. The Robinsons Difference. Hopefully there will be more to come. 

Robinsons Bold & Beautiful Samples 

- Ioma White Revelation Ritual

• Brightening Cleansing Mousse
• Brightening Day Emulsion
• Brightening Night Cream
• Cell Protector SPF 50+ PA+++

- Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream

- Dr. GL Moisturiser

- Kose Sekkisei Facial Liquid Wash

- Biotherm Life Plankton Essence, Aquasource, Everplump

- Lancome Advanced Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate

- Shu Uemura The Lightbulb Fluid Foundation Glow ( 764 Medium Light Beige )

- Elizabeth Arden Skin Renewal Booster

- Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque

- Kiehl's Nightly Refining Micro-Peel Concentrate

- Calvin Klein Euphoria Essence Fragrance Vial

- Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream Fragrance Vial

- NeoStrata Neck Cream

- Neutrogena Deep Clean Make-up Cleansing Oil

- Neutrogena Micro Boost Water Gel

- Kose Sekkisei White Washing Foam

- Kose Sekkisei Herbal Gel

Korea souvenirs from my Aunt's Korea trip
- Baroness Aloe Mask Sheet
- Esfolio Honey Essence Mask Sheet
- Esfolio Aloe Vera Moisture Soothing Gel Mist

From John Little Closing Down Sale
- Japan Gals 3 Layers Collagen Mask $25.83 ( 30% off $36.90 )
- Kracie Eye Mask $11.33 ( 30% off $15.90 )

Shiseido Skin Immunity Kit sample redemption
- Power Infusing Concentrate
- Power Infusing Eye Concentrate

Picked up some products while in Johor Bahru City Square recently. As expected, the Sasa sales promotor at Komtar was trying pretty hard to upsell products to me. Pretty irritating! Will not step in there again.

- Naruko Cotton Pads RM12 per pack
- Cotton Buds ( Made in France ) RM11.05 ( 20% off 2 RM6.90 pack )
- Combos Skin Eye Patch, Smile Line Patch and Neck Patch RM10 ( 3 for RM10 promotion )
- Sasatinnie Swallow's Nest Camellia Rejuvenating Black Eye Mask RM47.90 ( Buy 1 free one )
- Sasatinnie Black Pearl Caviar Nourishing Black Eye Mask 
- Japan Gals Vitamin C + Nano Collagen Facial Mask S$25.52 ( after 20% discount from Plaza Singapura John Little ) 

Ordered some products from Japan Skin recently. It was my first purchase from their site and there was a 15% discount, so why not?

Mitomo Gold and Cherry Blossoms Essence Mask S$1.66  ( 15% discount off  S$1.95 )
Japan Gals Pure 5 Essence Mask S$19.64  ( 15% discount off  S$22.32 )
Pure Smile Essence Mask Gold S$1.66  ( 15% discount off  S$1.95 )
Pure Smile Essence Mask Silk S$1.66  ( 15% discount off  S$1.95 )
Pure Smile Hydrogel Eye Patch S$1.57  ( 15% discount off  S$1.89 )

Review : Bio Silver Ginseng Pearl Gel

Product Description
Scientific research and special technology is adopted to incoporate both silver and ginseng extracts into the Bio Silver Ginseng Pearl Gel. It can diminish inflammation, reduce acne and nourish skin. With regular application, it will help to make your face look rosy and radiance with a hint of youthfulness.

I received both Bio Gold Pearl Gel and Bio Silver Ginseng Pearl Gel as a gift from my parents during one of their vacation trips to China. If I remembered correctly, the Bio Gold Pearl Gel is supposed to be used in the day while the Bio Silver Ginseng Pearl Gel is supposed to be used in the night.

Review : Dove Nourishing Oil Care Nutri-Oil Serum

Product Description
Dry hair needs more than just moisture, it also needs essential nutrients that restore smoothness, softness and shine. 

Advanced Nutri-Oils: 
- A unique blend with natural coconut and almond oils.
- Rapidly absorbed and doesn't leave hair feeling greasy.
- Deeply nourishes, tames unruly hair and revitalizes shine.
- As good as Moroccon Oil Treatment*

A good friend has recommended Dove Nourishing Oil Care Nutri-Oil Serum while we were shopping in Watsons, City Square Mall Johor Bahru. Upon realizing its cheaper than in Singapore, she promptly added a few bottles into her shopping basket, and of course I added to my purchase too, despite not having been a mainstream hair brand user for awhile.

Review : Fresh Beauty Market Cellulite Butter

Product Description
Cellulite Butter features a unique peptide complex that tightens and tones skin with Matrixyl 3000, Argireline and Snap 8. This formula also features caffeine, msm, hyaluronic acid and orange butter to create super absorption through the skin while increasing topical circulation. Our Orange Butter base contains high amounts of Limonene, a highly effective free radical scavenger that tones and tightens skin. This formulation of bioflavonoids, peptides and caffeine reduces cellulite, stretch marks and scars without chemicals

The Fresh Beauty Market Cellulite Butter has a whipped butter-like texture. Light yellow in colour, it also gives off a sweet orange scent. Raw and natural, the cellulite butter received rave reviews after appearing on The Dr. Oz Show, an American television talk show, hosted by Mehmet Oz, a cardiothoracic surgeon and a teaching professor at Columbia Univerity. However, the show also has its fair share of criticisms from the medical community where a study has found that 54% of the health recommendations were not medically supported.

DIY Beauty : Make Your Own Skincare Products

• Instant face exfoliator: Buy a bag of cornmeal. Take a tablespoon of that and a tablespoon of olive oil and one drop of lavender. Exfoliate your face. Then use a hot flannel to wipe it off.

• Sea salt body scrub: Buy a normal jar of sea salt. If it's a bit coarse then grind it down. Add any kind of oil, a drop of lavender and a drop of rose oil. Beforehand dry-skin brush the body, brushing towards the heart.

Review : Madre Labs Creme Brulee Body Wash

Product Description
Our luxuriously-scented Body Wash thoroughly cleanses your skin, leaving it smooth and moisturized. You'll feel soft and silky to the touch, with our unique formulation of Shea Butter, Argan and Marula oils. pH balanced and cruelty--free.

A 257ml bottle costs about S$11.57 on Iherb. You can quote OKI787 to get up to US$10 off your first order. Madre Labs is one of the inhouse brands from Iherb so their prices are usually pretty reasonable. 

Review : SKII Signs Eye Mask

Product Description
This ultra-comforting cotton mask instantly and effectively reduces the signs of aging and dryness around your eyes.

With just one application, appearance of fine lines is noticeably reduced, dullness of the skin under the eyes is visibly lightened and your eyes look visibly brighter.

I was glad to be able to snag a box of the SKII Signs Eye Mask at just $68.40, instead of $116 ( now, the price has been increased to $121 ) before the demise of Luxola *sob sob. Ever since Luxola has been bought over by Sephora, I am resigned to the fact that, there will not be any more of those 40% storewide discount ever. 

Each box contains 14 individually wrapped packaging of one pair of eye masks. In each packaging, a pair of eye masks is nestled in a clear plastic tray, moist with essence. The soft, essence-drenched cloth masks are cresent moon-like shaped to fit the shape of the undereye area. 

4 Easy Steps To Minimize Large Pores

1. FIND THE RIGHT SKIN CARE PRODUCTS FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE

Use skin care products suitable for your skin type. Skin care products that are too emollient may lead to clogged pores, especially if you have oily skin. Skin care products that clog your pores or cause your oil glands to produce more sebum may lead to enlarged pores.

Review : Skin Food Beauty In A Food Mask, Propolis & Bee Venom

Product Description
Beauty In A Food Mask containing Propolis and Bee Venom is a moisturising mask sheet that enhances skin condition to make it healthy

I purchased 2 sheets of Beauty In A Food Mask with Propolis and Bee Venom from Testerkorea some time back and used it o 2 consecutive nights recently.

Each sheet mask is folded neatly in the yellow packaging, soaked fully with essence. The fragrance is slightly heavy, with a perfumery type of scent which was a bit artificial. Something which I rather do without.

The material is soft and adheres well to skin, with a slightly shorter nose flap though. The mask sheet with Propolis and Bee Venom feels comfortable and nourishing, making me feel that my skin is well-pampered after a day's external pollution and stress.

Skin is left looking well-rested, fresher and clearer after a 30 minute treatment.

Shop on Amazon.com :
Skin Food Beauty In A Food Mask with Propolis and Bee Venom

Subscribe to ReviewGalore for Free – If you’re interested in keeping in touch with me and the new articles that go up on ReviewGalore, you can subscribe in 2 ways : 

1) Review Galore RSS feed

2) bloglovin

Review : Love & Toast Pomme Poivre Hand Creme

Product Description
Happy Hydration.Natural Super-Softeners Shea Butter, Macadamia Nut, and Olive Fruits team up with pore pleasing Avocado and Sunflower Oils to create a Dream Cream. Love and Toast can't live without its botanical perfume blend in the perfect lightweight and luxurious lotion.

With vanilla orchid, white musk, jasmine and ebony woods in its fragrance notes, Love and Toast Pomme Poivre Hand Creme looks good and smells good. This hand cream is also paraben-free, phthalate free, does not test on animals and do not contain artificial colours.

Review : Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ PA+++

Product Description
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ PA+++ is a breakthrough in sun protection. Stabilized with Helioplex, it provides superior balanced broad-spectrum protection against skin-aging UVA and UVB rays and combines it with Dry Touch Technology for an ultra-light, non-shiny finish. This lightweight sunblock has a light fresh scent and is gentle enough even for sensitive skin. It is waterproof, sweatproof, non-comedogenic, dermatologist tested, oil-free and PABA free.

I redeemed a tube size sample from thesamplestore recently. If you are interested, you can join via my link and start redeeming free samples, like me too. There are always new products coming up, so the only way to assess if a product is suitable for your skin type, is to get sample size, try it, before deciding to invest in the full retail size.

Made in Korea, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ PA+++ has a white creamy texture, with a slight sunscreen scent. At SPF50, one would expect the sunscreen to be pretty oily but surprisingly, is not, during application.

I use it mainly on my arms as I have a separate lighter sunblock ( Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide ) for the face. The sunscreen applies well, with a medium consistency and has a slight shine. There is no sticky or oily after-feel so I would say it kind of tune in with its "dry touch technology".

Having a SPF50 with PA+++, it is a broad spectrum sunscreen which offers good protection for our skin in our humid sunny weather.

It uses the following sunscreen ingredients :
- Ethylhexyl salicylate ( also known as Octyl Slicylate or Octisalate ) provides UVB protection

- Benzophenone-3 ( also known as as Oxybenzone ) absorbs UVB and short UVA rays but is a relatively weak chemical UV absorber. By absorbing UV rays, it also helps preserve the integrity of other cosmetic ingredients, preventing their deterioration under the sun

- Octocrylene protects against partial UVA and full UVB rays

- Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane ( also known as Avobenzone ) absorbs UV rays. According to this source, tests have revealed Avobenzone’s tendency to significantly degrade in light over time, lessening its sun protection capabilities. For this reason, most sunscreens containing the ingredient also include photo-stabilizing ingredients like octocrylene

In Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ PA+++, the main focus is on Helioplex which is a formulation of broad-spectrum ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) skin protection containing avobenzone and oxybenzone made by Neutrogena. It is said to help protect skin by absorbing the UV rays and convert the UV energy to make Avobenzone photostable. 

This product scored 3.7 from 16 users on Makeupalley.

Note : To some people, sunscreen is usually referred to, as a chemical type, with the above sunscreen ingredients whereas sunblock is referred to, as a physical type, using Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide as its main ingredients.

 
However, in reality, the terms sunblock and sunscreen tend to be used interchangeably.

Interestingly, there was some eczema flare-up on my arms and hands after using this sunscreen. And it happened several hours after application. I can only conclude it is due to this product, as this was the common factor on my eczema flare-up days. Note that it could be just my skin and this issue may not happen with others.

The itch was quite bad and red spots started turning up on both arms and hands. It subsided after a night - with topical medication and air-conditioned sleep rest.

Where To Purchase : Shopee | Amazon | Amazon SG

Review : Beyond The God of Patches Bye Bye Panda Eyes

Product Description
Designed exclusively for the eye area, this certified whitening patch delivers highly enriched natural whitening ingredients to sagging skin around the eyes and its dark shadow reaching to the chin, instantly boosting suppleness and radiance. 

Made in Korea, Beyond is a brand under LG Household and Health Care. I purchased it for 2500won on Testerkorea. Dermatologically tested, paraben free, no chemical colorants and against animal testing, Beyond The God of Patches Bye Bye Panda Eyes packaging is simply too cute for words.

The paper panda illustration opens up to reveal another paper packaging with the actual eye mask sheet. It is enveloped within 2 protective layers in a clear plastic tray.

The texture of the The God of Patches Bye Bye Panda Eyes mask sheets feel like a mesh-like hydrogel, with a slippery and cooling sensation. It is slightly moist and adheres well to the undereye area, without much slippage during the 40 minutes treatment.

It seems to hydrate my dry undereye area as the fines were slightly minimized. The brightness was more apparent on the first try but not so on the second try. ( I bought 2 sheets and used it once per week ). However, please note that eye masks are usually a temporary effect.

Source : Beyond

Shop on Amazon.com :
Beyond The God of Patches Bye Bye Panda Eyes

Review : Skin Food Beauty In A Food Mask, Bird's Nest

Product Description
Provide rich hydration to dry skin

I have previously bought 2 sheets of Skinfood Beauty In A Food Mask, Bird's Nest from a Korean website for 1000won each. And of course, there's shipping involved for a ton of other products too.

I used 2 sheets on 2 consecutive days recently, just to nourish my skin, after not using masks for more than a week. Just the name - bird's nest makes one feel pampered and nourished so having it in a sheet mask is just another good marketing gimmick especially if it works well.

Similar to the other masks in the same Beauty In A Food mask range, the sheet mask is thin but sturdy yet pretty wet with essence that is creamy and sticky. It adheres well to skin and performs amazingly good with much hydration.
My skin feels soft and plump with moisture but its a temporary measure for the day as my skin turns back to its dehydrated state the following morning.

The full ingredient list can be found here.

Ingredients : 
Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Swiftlet Nest Extract, Shea Butter, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Macadamia Intergrifolia Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Xanthan Gum, PEG-100 Stearate, Sodium Carbomer, Carbomer, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Ceramide NP, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Tocopherol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Fragrance

Shop on Amazon.com :
Skin Food Everyday Variety Mask Pack 
Skin Food Beauty In A Food Mask, Bird Nest

Subscribe to ReviewGalore for Free – If you’re interested in keeping in touch with me and the new articles that go up on ReviewGalore, you can subscribe in 2 ways : 

1) Review Galore RSS feed

2) bloglovin

Not Just A PonyTail Hair Tutorial

If you like to tie your hair in a ponytail, check out this hair tutorial video by the creative Kate. Only bobby pins are required.


Source : smallthingsblog

Review : Wiseways All Heal Salve

Product Description
A soothing, natural first aid salve for minor cuts, burns, dry spots, scrapes, and diaper areas. Can be used as a healing nipple cream. Great for pets or horses too!
This is my 2nd tub of Wiseways All Heal Salve which is pretty awesome to have it around in the household. A pity that its only available in a 7.1g size in Iherb which meant that it get used up pretty fast. S$5.60 at 7.1g is not exactly an economical price for that tiny pot.

The tiny pot packs a punch in a glass bottle, with a black plastic cap. Unscrew the cap and you will see light yellow contents with a salve texture which meant greasy and sticky stuff.

I use the All Heal Salve on mosquito bites which works 90% of the time, easing the itch and the red bump disappears after awhile. I also use it on scrapes, in the hope that the wounds will get healed faster, although when it eventually does, I am not sure if its due to time, or truly due to the All Heal Salve.

I normally ignore tiny cuts, prefer to let it heal by itself so I have yet to use the salve on them. I tried using it on eczema itches but it only ease them for a short while before the itch came back again.
I treat it as a soothing balm for abrasions and rashes as well and I feel that it helps to ease the itch commonly associated with red rashes on my skin. At the same time, I was also hoping my scars can be reduced, after using the balm but so far, I have not seen a spectacular difference.

I get bites pretty often as compared to the rest in my household, so I always have such balms and potions and repellents around. For now, Wiseways All Heal Salve works pretty well on my scrapes ,bites and rashes so I will continue to buy it often.

You can get it from Iherb, where first time customer is entitled to US$5 off their first order. Use my code OKI787 so that Iherb can also reward me with a US$5 for a new customer referral.

Ingredients :
Olive Oil Extracts of Organic Comfrey, Chickweed and Plantain Leaves, Burdock Root, Calendula, Echinacea and St. Johnswort Flowers, Beeswax, Self Heal Flower Essence and Eilat Gem Essence.

Source : Wiseways

Shop on Iherb.com :
Wiseways All Heal Salve

The Twisted Half Up Hair Tutorial

Another awesome fuss-free hairstyle, created with lots of bobby pins by the pretty Kate. Enjoy!


Source : thesmallthingsblog

Review : MooGoo Soothing MSM Cream

Product Description
This cream is made using the moisturizing base of our Full Cream with the addition 10% MSM (Organic Sulfur) and the removal of Milk Protein. This is the maximum amount of MSM we could add to the cream. Just mention MSM and watch the Naturopaths go nuts about its skin calming properties. The cream uses Sweet Almond Oil which is one of the best moisturising oils for irritated skin due to its essential fatty acid profile. The cream is also fully loaded with other natural skin healing ingredients. These include Allantoin (Comfrey Root Active), Vitamin E, Aloe Vera and Honey. Paraffin Oil Free. pH Balanced. 

Key Ingredients : 
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil : High in the types of fatty acids needed for troubled skin. 
Squalene (Olive) : Leave your skin moisturised and dewy. Our body produces a small amount of squalene, but the amount diminishes when we get older, starting in our twenties. Squalene is required for our skin to keep it moisturised and fight aging. It is also a unique antioxidant from olives that protects our skin from free-radical damages. Since Olive squalene's composition is very similar to human sebum, it can penetrate our skin very quickly to help our skin to fight dryness. It enhances skin elasticity and moisture retention. 
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil : We used coconut oil as a stabiliser, it also helps to moisturise the skin 

Made in Australia, The packaging of MooGoo first draws me in, when I was shopping at 10 10 Mother and Child Essentials in City Square Mall. The illustration is cute and the whole exterior gives a calming and soothing impression. Beside, milk has always garnered a positive feeling of being pure, white and moisturising for the body. 

Triple Topsy Tail Pony Hair Tutorial

Its been a while since I lasted posted on hairstyles, because I prefer fuss-free simple hairdo and I found it today!

The talented Kate demonstrated a simple casual hairdo, that is perfect for a dress-me-down friday or having brunch with your girlfriends over the weekends.

Source : thesmallthingsblog

Review : EO Eucalyptus & Arnica Botanical Bubble Bath

Product Description
Love Life. Live Clean. Purify Your Body and Mind - Aloe Vera, Eucalyptus Essential Oil, Arnica Extract, Angelica Extract, Echinacea Extract, Chamomile, Panthenol, Allantoin, Rice Proteins, White Tea, Calendula, 

EO Eucalyptus and Arnica soothing Bubble Bath gently cleanses with Pure Essential Oils. Our richly foaming Bubble Bath creates lush and long lasting bubbles to pamper and indulge your skin. Our proprietary EO Purifying Complex of Arnica, Angelica and Echinacea extracts blend together in a powerful remedy to purify and alleviate symptoms associated with seasonal conditions. Our Coconut Cleansing Complex gently cleanses without drying. 

Key Ingredients : 
Glycerin, Rice Proteins, Allantoin, Panthenol and Vitamin A : moisturize, hydrate and nurture skin. Eucalyptus Essential Oil and Arnica Extract : relieve muscle tension for a purifying soak. 
Panthenol (Vitamin B) : restores needed moisture and smoothes skin. 
Allantoin : soothe, heal and regenerate skin cells. 
Rich Rice Proteins : deeply penetrate to support skin. 
Aloe Vera and Vegetable Glycerin : attract moisture to skin and maintain optimal hydration balance. Vitamin A : improves skin elasticity with powerful antioxidants. 

BENEFITS: 
ESSENTIAL OILS - This awakening blend of Lemon, Eucalyptus, Pine, Lime, and Wintergreen essential oils simultaneously stirs and relaxes the senses. 
COCONUT CLEANSING COMPLEX - Derived from Coconut oil, our cleansing complex is formulated to cleanse your skin and create rich bubbles.
ORGANIC HERBAL BLEND - The key botanical base of Organic Aloe Vera, Calendula, Chamomile, and White Tea extracts nourishes the skin with Vitamin E antioxidants to support happy, healthy skin.
PURIFYING COMPLEX - Our proprietary blend of Angelica, Nettle, and Echinacea extracts helps to deeply soothe sore muscles and supports healthy, balanced skin. 

A 355ml bottle costs $12.53 when I bought it from Iherb several months back. As the name implies, bubble bath is actually recommended to be poured into bath tub and one can simply soak in it. 

Review : Color Combos, Combos Skin Bio-Cellulose Circle Diminishing Google Patch

Product Description
This Bio-Cellulose special care mask has excellent, comfortable and eco-friendly adhesion derived from fermented coconut juice. The mask itself can absorb and deliver the vital essences more effectively, for superior treatment results.
Blended with lotus extract and vitamin B3, these patches help impart a more even-looking skin tone to transform the eyes instantly. Provides draining and lightening, leaving the eye area brighter with diminished dark circles. It also helps the skin remain hydrated and minimizes wrinkles and frown lines. Enriched with green tea and lavender extracts for skin calming and a feeling of wellbeing.

I purchased a piece of Combos Skin Bio-Cellulose Circle Diminishing Google Patch from Sasa in Komtar, Johor Bahru several weeks ago. There was a promotion of 3 pieces for RM10, so I bought another one for the neck and another one for the laugh lines.

Review : Petitfee Gold EGF Eye Patch

Product Description
Petitfee Gold EGF Eye Patch contains pure gold powder which balances and normalizes the movement of ions in the skin and helps achieve brighter and firmer skin. It keeps the skin healthy with its premium ingredients like Aloe Vera, Ginseng and Caviar. It heals and soothes troubled skin.

Gold is said to relieve, eliminate waste, detoxify, purify and improve blood circulation. With the weak electric currents flowing inside the human body, relating to positive and negative ions, pure gold is said to normalize the movement of ions to activate blood circulation with cell regeneration function. Petitfee Gold EGF Eye Patch contains 0.0003% gold, so I am not sure if its indeed effective, with that amount.

EGF ( Epidermal Growth Factor ) regulates cell growth and is said to help epidermal cells absorb nutrition and accelerate cell metabolism. It also helps in preventing skin aging and diminishing wrinkles.

I purchased a tub of Petitfee Gold EGF Eye Patch for 7000won on Testerkorea previously, together with an assortment of other items which costs me $15 for international shipping. In Singapore, one tub is selling for $24 in departmental stores.

Review : Yves Rocher Hair Repair Oil

Product Description
Discover this genuine exceptional treatment! Enriched with restorative Babassu Oil and Macadamia Oil to nourish the scalp, this concentrate of rich oils offers strength to the hair.
Result: the hair is ultra soft and shiny. Paraben free, colorant free, silicone free

Yves Rocher came back to Singapore with a revamp and prices seem more affordable. There are always some discounts going on and I managed to snag this Yves Rocher Hair Repair Oil for $14 instead of the original $20 during the last Great Singapore Sale. 

This 150ml honey coloured contents, stored in a plastic bottle, with a twist and turn cap can lasts for a while, if you follow the recommended instruction by using it twice a week. I am not sure why it is supposed to be used only twice a week as I don't feel that the oil is deeply intense enough to be used that way. However, the promoter told me I can use it every day if I want to.

Complimentary Samples - Shiseido Ultimune + Biore + The Body Shop

Shiseido Ultimune Sample Kit

Biore Micellar Cleansing Water

The Body Shop Oils of Life 

Quick & Effective Beauty Hacks Every Woman Should Know

#1 Stash your moisturisers in the fridge for depuffing

Cooling your moisturiser and eye creams in the fridge is great for dealing with a puffy face in the mornings, and give you a temporary tightening effect.

#2 Fill the gaps between your lashes

If falsies and mascara aren’t your thing but you still want to make your eyelashes look fuller, filling in the spaces right between the roots of your lashes (not above the lashes) with an eyeliner will make them look thicker and fuller. You should pick a shade as close to your lashes as possible, so avoid the blackest of black eyeliner and opt for a more natural brown black instead.

Review : Handmade Heroes Butt Kickin' Deep Detoxing Coffee Scrub

Product Description
Mighty tough on cellulite but kind on skin. Butt Kickin' Deep Detox coffee scrub stimulates circulation with ground organic coffee, tightens skin and improves elasticity. Giving those nasty problem areas some mighty tough love! Use on problem areas such as the stomach, hips, thighs and butt. 100% all natural, vegan and cruelty free. No parabens, preservatives or synthetic chemicals.

There was a promotion on Naiise and I took the chance to get one of the Handmade Heroes Butt Kickin' Deep Detoxing Coffee Scrub, just because I want the back of my thighs to look good. A 125g costs $21.90 on Naiise and $19.90 on Handmade Hero webstore but I managed to snag it for $17.52.

The fun sounding name for a cellulite body scrub makes me want to try it out so badly! And certainly hoping it works as good as it sounds.
Handcrafted and handmade in Singapore, Handmade Heroes is 100% natural and there is only 5 ingredients in the coffee scrub - clean and void of any nasty chemicals. Good stuff!

Review : Mark's Hill MiracOILicious Moroccan Argan Oil

Product Description
Moroccan Argan Oil is a real beauty phenomenon! Combining the power of 14 of the world's finest essential oils and plant extracts, this super-versatile, ultra-nourishing and residue-free formula can be used as a conditioning, styling and finishing tool. Its light-weight formula rejuvenates, rehydrates and eliminates frizz in one small drop.

Benefits :
- conditioning, styling and finishing tool
- combines 14 of the world's finest essential oils and plant extracts
- ultra nourishing and residue free formula


Mark Hill MiracOILicious Moroccan Argan Oil is an exotic blend of 14 of the finest essential oils and plant extracts including Moroccan Argan Oil, Ylang-Ylang, Bergamot, Cedarwood, Sage, Sandalwood, Spearmint, Castor Seed, Palmarosa, Orange, Patchouli Clove, Artemisia Pallens Flower and White Birch.

Review : Estetica VitaLift A+Brillage Face Mask

Product Description
Bio-cellulose mask with high penetrative ability to restore skin's youthful radiance and luminosity

Key Ingredients :

Bifida Ferment Lysate - a DNA repairing agent

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 - which has anti-wrinkle and anti-ageing properties

Sodium Hyaluronate - replenishes and locks in moisture

Syn-Hycan - boosts hyaluronic acid (HA) and production increases levels of two important proteins which improve the quality and strength of collagen fibres

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 - a deep penetrating peptide that is able to activate skin’s tissue growth factor that stimulates collagen synthesis, resulting in a reduction of the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. This is the natural alternative to collagen injections

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate - a skin-lightening agent and potent antioxidant proven to suppress melanin formation and reduce hyper-pigmentation and UV- induced inflammation. Overall, it boosts collagen synthesis and enhances cell repair and regeneration

VitaLift A+ Brillage Nano-Biocellulose Face Mask is soaked in a cocktail of active ingredients to deliver multiple benefits to your skin. Made of nano-grade organic fibres, the mask fits snugly on your skin to allow maximum penetration for greater efficacy. It aids in cellular repair and has amazing anti-ageing, whitening and moisturizing results with significant reduction in wrinkle formation and skin sagging, the 2 most visible signs of ageing.

I received a sheet of the VitaLift A+Brillage Face Mask as part of its door gift after attending a paid seminar from Estetica. A pack of 6 sheets cost $98 which is way out of my budget so am glad that I get to try it out, 2 days before helping out at a friend's wedding. I need to look good too, so what better way is there than to pamper myself with Estetica's bestselling mask sheet? 

18 Health Foods for Beauty

Your skin is often a reflection of your health—and that's a good thing. Changing up your diet may is underrated, efficient route to clearer, younger looking skin. Plus, it's a lot cheaper than all those lotions and potions lining the counters.

We've all looked in the mirror and asked, "Do I look my age?" Most of us want to prevent aging, reverse aging, or just age gracefully, which leads to the question: What should we eat to keep our skin looking younger and healthier? There's a reason, after all, that the conventional wisdom tells us you are what you eat; everything in the body is connected so if your gut isn't healthy, it will most likely show up on your face! Here are a few beauty-boosting, nutrient-rich foods to help keep you looking your best. 

1) Blueberries

Blueberries are a high-antioxidant food—and antioxidants are like superheroes in the battle against aging skin. Foods rich in antioxidants help slow aging at the cellular level by scavenging free radicals. Free radicals damage cells and tissues, which results in wrinkles and premature sagging.

2) Strawberries

A cup of strawberries (about eight strawberries) contains more vitamin C than an orange. Not only is vitamin C key to a healthy immune system, but it does wonder for our skin because it helps produce collagen, which keeps skin taught and smoothes fine lines.

Review : Skin Food Beauty In A Food Mask, Black Bean

Product Description
A beauty food mask sheet, containing black bean extract, provides rich and moist nutrients to make skin firmer

My testerkorea haul earlier this year, includes 2 sheets of the Skin Food Beauty In A Food Mask, Black Bean. The sheet material is thin but is sturdy enough not to be torn easily. It has a slight scent which dissipates after a short while.

While the Black Bean mask adheres well to my skin, but there is a slight gap near the outline of my face and the nose flap is slightly shorter as well.

The milky essence in the mask nourishes my skin well, leaving hydrated, soft and supple skin in its place after 20 minutes. But no apparent firmness though.

The full list of ingredients can be found here.

You can purchase the mask from Amazon. They are pretty affordable as a daily mask sheet.
Skin Food Beauty In A Food Mask, Black Bean

Source : Koreadepart

Review : Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti Frizz Serum

Product Description
The Garnier Fructis Anti-Frizz Serum helps to reduce frizz and dryness to make your hair more manageable. Just dab the anti-frizz serum on wet hair and then blow dry to tame your hair and give it a great shine. Formulated with Moroccan Argan oil and apricot, this Garnier Sleek and Shine Serum controls frizziness even in 97-percent humidity. Enriched with nutritive fruit micro-oils, the hair styling serum works on your hair from root to tip.

I purchased Garnier Fructis Sleek and Shine Anti Frizz Serum from overseas sometime back, thinking I may need it one of these days. Even though I battle with frizziness on a daily basis but it has never been a big problem for me. However, on important dates or events, I do wish my hair is sleek, smooth and shiny at times.

3 Beauty Insider Tricks To Reduce Eyebags Fast

(1) Tea
The astringent tannins from tea are a tried-and-tested way of lending an instant lift to your lids. Simply recycle used tea bags by chucking them in an airtight container in the fridge, for easy retrieval whenever you need a quick fix. Slap them on like you would any cold compress, kick up your kitten heels for five minutes or so, then whip off for a radically reinvigorated visage.

5 Natural Beauty Tips Straight from Your Kitchen Cabinet

1. Skin toner: Green Tea

If you suffer from blemished, oily or acne-prone skin, it’s best to stay away from harsh chemical toners that do more harm than good by stripping your skin. Instead try good old green tea tosoothe, calm and clear your skin. Just use it regularly for a few weeks to see the difference.

Ingredients: Green tea leaves (or bag) + fresh water

Method: Brew a fresh cup of green tea. Let it cool. Pour it into a bottle and refrigerate. Don’t store for more than 3 days, so keep making small batches.

Application: Soak cotton pads with the green tea and swipe all over your face. Use in the morning and evening after cleansing your skin.

Why it works: Green tea is brimming with anti-oxidants that soothe and heal angry, red, irritated skin.