Review : Its Skin Nutrition Daily Mask Sheet

Product Description
Nutrition Daily Mask Sheets are made of organic cotton which help to nourish your skin immediately. They contain honey, rice ferment extract and hydrolyzed collagen that wake up skin's own potential energy and provide vitality and elasticity into your skin

Containing 7 sheet masks in a pack, Its Skin Nutrition Daily Mask Sheet provides a convenient solution to those who are always travelling. You can just pull one sheet out and reseal it back. The only pet peeve is that, all 7 sheets are stuck together so you have to peel it one by one, before usage.

Even though the masks are heavily fragranced, the scent dissipates after a short while. The fit is snug and covers all areas of the face, without loose flaps hanging around unsightly.

Hydration is moderate as the sides of the nose area is still rough and dehydrated, though better.

Source : Roseroseshop

Review : Acure Brightening Facial Scrub

Product Description
"Seas" the day with natural exfoliation from the ocean! Organic sea kelp and lemon peel gently exfoliate your skin while French green clay removes impurities from your pores without taking your natural moisture with it. Organic chlorella growth factor and argan stem cells work to stimulate new cell growth and repair. Madonna lily stem cells help brighten. It's a deep cleansing, brightening experience. "Sea" the difference today!

Acure Brightening Facial Scrub has been receiving much love in the natural/organic enthusiasts community so its no wonder that I have to pick it up during one of my Iherb shopping days. A 118ml size goes for $11.82 and it is also vegan, sulfate-free, cruelty-free, PEG-free, petroleum-free, phthalate-free,silicone-free, gluten-free and synthetic fragrance-free.

Exfoliation is one of the keys to clearing dull skin and clogged pores so that radiant skin can emerge from within. The Acure Brightening Facial Scrub is said to do just that and more, with its argan stem cells and chlorella growth factor formula, stimulating new cell growth for fresh, radiant-looking skin although secretly, I wondered how a scrub can do just that, when its only on the skin for a mere few minutes.

Housed in a pliable soft white opaque tube, the dark green clay-like contents oozes out easily. It has a refreshing seaweed scent and applies easily on skin, with its gritty formula. On my sensitive skin, I found the beads to be slightly more abrasive than I would prefer. Even though, the scrub left my skin feeling super smooth and soft to the touch, however it also make my skin red and raw. 
I gasp at their " thrice a week" recommendation because I can only use it once a week.

The scrub remnants can be rinsed off well but the smooth after-feel texture does not last well beyond a night. The following morning, my skin is back to its slightly rough and dehydrated state but better than without using the scrub.

According to Paula, even though Acure Brightening Facial Scrub contains beneficial antioxidants in the form of fruit extracts and plant oils but they are not useful in a rinse-off formula like a scrub. The abrasive agents like lemon peel also contain fragrant compounds that would cause redness and inflammation in skin.

The Acure Brightening Facial Scrub scored 4.2 from 17 users on Makeupalley.

Ingredients :

Organic curoxidant blend [(organic euterpe oleracea (acai) berry, organic rubus fruticosus (blackberry), organic rosa canina (rosehips), organic punica granatum (pomegranate), Fair Trade Certified organic aspalathus linearis (rooibos)], organic calendula officinalis (calendula), organic matricaria recutita (chamomile), organic aloe barbensis (aloe vera) leaf juice, vegetable glycerin, French green clay, organic lemon peel granules, saponified organic cocos nucifera (coconut oil), cellulose gum (vegetable), organic olea europaea (olive oil), organic ascophyllum nodosum (sea kelp), theobromo cacao (cocoa) powder, organic chlorella pyrenoidosa (chlorella growth factor), chlorophyll, glucono delta lactone (fermented sugar), carageenan, argania spinosa (argan) stem cells, organic argania spinosa (argan) oil, potassium sorbate (food grade preservative), lilium candidum leaf cell extract, essential oil blend of salvia officinalis (sage) and mentha spicata (spearmint).

Vegan, sulfate free, cruelty free, paraben free, PEG free, petroleum free, phthalate free, silicone free, gluten free, synthetic fragrance free, won't clog pores, 100% biodegradable.

Source : Iherb

Review : Shikai Gardenia Moisturizing Shower Gel

Product Description
This is not your typical shower gel but actually formulated to moisturise and soothe dry skin which lies in the combination of organic colloidal oatmeal blended with pure aloe vera gel. These natural ingredients bring relief to dry, itchy skin and leave rough, chapped areas smooth and soft. And the special blend of cleansers is mild enough for your whole family to use every day.

Yet another winning product from Shikai ( after its color care shampoo and conditioner ), the Gardenia Moisturizing Shower Gel is ultra-moisturising and will be another favourite of mine with its easy-to-use formula - think foam and easy lathering, if not for its ingredients. 

It smells good with its light floral fragrnace and skin is left feeling soft, nourished and pampered from head to toe. You can get a 238ml size for $10.33 on Iherb. Quote OKI787 to get US$5 off your first purchase. 

However, in terms of ingredients, it is not so "friendly". The 3rd ingredient is TEA lauryl sulfate ( hazard level 4 on EWG ) and 4th ingredient is cocoamide DEA which is a chemically-modified version of coconut oil and is a known carcinogen, with a hazard level of 7 on EWG.

DEA is an allergen that, in small doses, can create mild forms of dermatitis in individuals who are susceptible to skin allergies but high doses have been linked to potentially being carcinogenic to humans.

Look out for gentler and mild sulfates like Sodium Cocyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Sodium Socoyl (or lauryl/lauroyl) Sarcosinate, Ethyl PEG-15 Cocamine Sulfate, Dioctyl Sodium, Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Methyl Cocoyl or Lauryl Taurate and Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate. Read more here.

Shop for the products on Amazon.
Shikai Gardenia Moisturizing Shower Gel 
Shikai Gardenia Moisturizing Shower Gel ( 3 bottles )

Ingredients :

Purified water (aqua), aloe vera gel (aloe barbadensis)*, TEA lauryl sulfate, cocoamide DEA, laurethsulfosuccinate, cocoamidopropyl hydroxysutaine, colloidal oatmeal (avena sativa)*, guar powder, salt (sodium chloride), citric acid, diazolidinyl urea, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, natural fragrance (parfum).

*Certified organic

No animal ingredients or testing.

Source : Iherb

Review : Physiogel Calming Relief Face Cream

Product Description
Daily use Physiogel Calming Relief Face Cream is specially formulated for those with dry, sensitive, redness-prone facial skin. Clinically tested by dermatologists. This light, easy to spread cream is suitable for use under make-up. Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic.

Proven Results : 
- reduces redness associated with dry skin
- provides immediate and long-lasting moisturization
- reduces sensation of itch, discomfort and heat
- soothes dry, irritated red skin
- for visibly healthy, soft, even-toned skin
- makes skin less sensitive

I have been using the 5ml Physiogel Calming Relief Face Cream in conjunction with the cleanser for a week. Similarly to the cleanser, the face cream also does not contain preservatives, perfumes and colorants.

White in colour, the face cream glides well on skin with an emollient texture. Skin feels immediately moisturised and soothed. The redness on skin has been slightly minimized after a week's use. Note that I did not notice an immediate reduction in redness after the face cream application.

However, Physiogel Calming Relief Face Cream may be too rich for my chin area. Zits have been appearing one after another during the 1 week's trial and only disappeared entirely after I stopped using it. 

Where To Purchase : Shopee
Physiogel Calming Relief A.I Cream 

Physiogel Daily Moisture Therapy Dermo-Cleanser

Physiogel Calming Relief Face Night Cream 

Ingredients :
Aqua, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Olus Oil, Elaeis Guineensis Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Squalane, Betaine, Palmitamide MEA, Sarcosine, Acetamide MEA, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Carbomer, Sodium Carbomer, Xanthan Gum

Review : Physiogel Calming Relief Gentle Cream Cleanser

Product Description

Daily use Calming Relief Gentle Cream Cleanser is specially formulated for those with dry, sensitive, redness-prone skin. Clinically tested by dermatologists. Opthalmologically tested. Suitable for use around the eyes. Hypoallergenic. 

Proven Results :

- effectively removes dirt, make-up and impurities from skin

- leaves skin feeling clean, soft and soothed

- immediately comforts the skin

- protects the skin from further dryness

I love Physiogel A.I Cream as a solution to tackle my eczema-prone skin ( on body only ) so when Physiogel came up with this Calming Relief range, I redeemed a sample set ( cleanser and cream ) to try it out.

The 10ml Physiogel Calming Relief Gentle Cream Cleanser is my morning cleanser for a week, during the trial. It is recommended to apply it with a cotton pad, wipe off and then rinse. Quite a waste of cotton pads, since I cleanse twice daily, which meant 4 cotton pads a day ( apply and wipe ). 

I have been a naughty girl though, I didn't use any cotton pads, but use it like a regular cleanser, with my bare hands. Tested on both dry and wet skin. 

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The white contents look creamy but not really so, once on the skin. It doesn't foam, and although I am used to non-foaming cleansers and like non-foaming cleansers because it is less drying on my skin, but somehow, the Physiogel Calming Relief Gentle Cream Cleanser feels alittle mild. It didn't feel like the cleanser was cleansing my wet skin. I can't feel the interaction between the cleanser and my skin. My skin still feels rough and dehydrated, although not tight. ( Bad cleansers will make my skin tight. )

On dry skin, the cleanser performs better. There was no instruction if it should be used on wet skin or dry skin so I tried both ways. On dry skin, the cleanser feels much more comfortable although still a little gentle and mild. I would prefer it to have a better cleansing power. It does, however, left a moisturising veil after cleansing, which makes my skin feels nourished, supple and soft. 

I am prone to redness, on the sides of my nose and on my chin. The cleanser didn't really eliminate the redness on its own, but accompanied with the face cream, it does help to minimize the redness on a subtle basis.

In conclusion, I would not purchase the full retail size of the Cream Cleanser as it is too gentle and mild, however, it may be a great addition or relief to those who has very sensitive skin.

Check out the components of the ingredients here. Physiogel Calming Relief Gentle Cream Cleanser does not contain preservatives, perfumes and colorants.

Where To Purchase : Shopee
Physiogel Calming Relief A.I Cream 

Physiogel Daily Moisture Therapy Dermo-Cleanser

Ingredients : 

Aqua, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Glycerin, Xylitol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Panthenol, Behenic Acid, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Acetamide MEA, Palmitamide MEA, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Oryza Sativa Cera, Squalane, Sodium Hydroxide, t-Butyl Alcohol, Ceramide 3

Review : Dr. GL Restore Gel Mask

Product Description
Bring skin back to equilibrium with this restorative gel for all skin types. Packed with healing botanicals to help soothe skin, it makes a particularly good travel companion as skin tends to be stressed by changing environments, manifesting signs of irritation such as redness and dryness.

The Dr. GL Difference 
A proprietary blend of natural ingredients including Gardenia Florida extract and Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract heals skin with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial powers. Its blue hue extracted from Guaiazulene helps counteract redness while its all-natural fragrance exerts a calming influence. 

Even though I have only used 2 of Dr. GL products, but I have been won over by the whole experience of using them, in terms of its formula and texture. Hydration has been key in my skincare motto and Dr. GL Restore Gel Mask has been one of those products on my "want" list but it has always been sold out during Luxola 40% storewide sale each time.

Review : Watsons Cordyceps Youth Activating Eye Mask

I bought the Watsons Cordyceps Youth Activating Eye Mask during my Beijing trip last December. The purple packaging looks pretty and has a shiny sheen to it, making it look more luxe. In each box, it contains 6 individually packed sachets as shown above.

The material of the Cordyceps Youth Activating Eye Mask is thin but doesn't tear during the 6 times I had used it, just before CNY. I just want to keep my peepers in good condition before CNY comes along.

Shaped like a C mask, it covers the undereye area, the eyelid area and the crow feet area. Cold and refreshing, it also has an artificial perfumery fragrance which I rather do without. Eye area feels rested but there are no spectacular results to boot.

Review : Yves Rocher Anti-Slackening Supra Lift Mask

Product Description
The Supra Lift Mask comes with a massaging brush tip that plumps cheeks and facial contours. It reduces the appearance of pronounced wrinkles as it increases skin firmness. The stimulating action of the brush on your skin, combined with the micro-exfoliating botanical AHA molecule, instantly boosts the radiance of your complexion.

I picked up Yves Rocher Anti-Slackening Supra Lift Mask at a steal during a Luxasia warehouse sale. I was curious to see how it will fare on my cherubic cheeks since they will be prone to sagging when age creeps up.

To use the product, twist the brush head to "on". Squeeze the bottle, to get the cream moving out onto the bristles. Apply the contents upwards starting from the base of jaws to cheekbones. It is recommended to apply it thickly twice a week onto the 3 main sagging skin zones namely, cheekbones, jawline and neck.

I use the mask more often on the cheekbones and jawline, skipping the neck area as I tend to use it after bathing. The scent is strong and is apparent even after mask application.
The effect is more pronounced if the application is thick, making my jaws look subtly sharper and lifted. However, the radiance, if any, is not obvious.

Note that, it requires more effort to rinse off and I tend to use more water than normal, just to cleanse it off my skin.

Review : MG Water Soothing Eye Mask

Meant to soften and brighten the eye skin area, each packet contains 10 individually packed eye masks.

Shaped like a batman mask, the thin cottony material provides a comfortable fit on the eyes. It covers the eye area totally, so I tend to apply a gel face mask together with this eye mask sheet and relax on the bed for that mini spa time at night.

Eyes feel relaxed, refreshed and look less tired after each treatment. No spectacular results though. A subtle scent fills the nose but dissipates after a short while.