[ Review ] : Jason Natural, Calming Lavender Body Wash

Product Description
Nourish your skin with botanical surfactants plus Vitamin E and Pro-Vitamin B5 for a gentle, healthy cleanse. Calming Lavender and Marigold Extracts soothe the skin, and give your body a smoother, petal-soft touch.

I bought most of my body washes from Iherb and was looking for products which I have not tried before when I chanced upon Jason Naturals. I first tried Jason Naturals back in 2013 so I thought it was time to revisit the brand.

Made in USA, Jason Natural is an earth-friendly and biodegradable formula where they believe in the power of nature's ingredients to improve everyday wellness. You can read more about it on their website.

Jason Code Of Honour :
- Select safe, gentle and effective ingredients
- Rigorously test every formula to ensure safety and efficacy
- Never test on animals

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Jason Natural, Calming Lavender Body Wash is my very first body wash in 887 ml which came in this gigantic pump bottle. It has a calming Lavender scent and lathers well for a good cleansing experience.

Performance and Ingredients

The Lavender Body Wash cleanses well with sufficient lathering but unfortunately, it has been slightly drying since Day 1. It only goes to show that sometimes you only know it after you use it, so despite how the brand markets it as gentle and nourishing, it reacts differently for each skin type.

Said to be infused with nutrient-rich vitamin E and pro-vitamin B5, plus soothing lavender and marigold extracts, Jason Natural, Calming Lavender Body Wash does not contain parabens, harsh sulfates, phthalates or petrolatum. It is also not tested on animals.

Aqua (Water), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Glycerin, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice(1), Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Allantoin, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Lauryl Glucoside, Stearyl Citrate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Sulfate, Citric Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Fragrance (Parfum), Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citral, Eugenol, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, Linalool
(1)Certified Organic Ingredient

Conclusion

Not a repurchase for me as its slightly drying but what doesn't work for me, may just work very well for you, judging from the positive reviews on Iherb and Amazon.


Where To Purchase : Iherb | Amazon
Jason Calming Lavender Body Wash

[ Review ] : Pretty Skin Hyaluronic Cleansing Water

Product Description
Leaves a clean, refreshing feeling after removing makeup effectively! It contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract that helps to gently exfoliates while keeping our skin moisturized and improves skin elasticity.

I have been using Bioderma Sensibio H20 Micelle Solution since 2012 so when I run out of the last bottle in my stash, I decided to try cleansing water from other brands and that was when I chanced upon Pretty Skin Hyaluronic Cleansing Water.

Made in Korea, Pretty Skin has a wide range of products under the brand - you can check it out here., however not all the products can be found in Singapore. I purchased mine from Hebeloft.

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Pretty Skin Hyaluronic Cleansing Water is housed in a large 500ml plastic bottle with simple and clean illustration.

[ Review ] : Peter Thomas Roth Hungarian Thermal Water Mineral-Rich Moisturizer

Product Description
This fountain of youth moisturizer harnesses the power of Hungarian thermal water, botanicals and modern technologies. For years, people came from afar to soak in the mineral-rich, fountain of youth thermal waters of the Hungarian spas owned by Peter’s grandparents. 

Today, Peter uses the most mineral-rich thermal water on earth from a secret spring deep below Hungary’s Carpathian Valley, where the earth’s crust is the thinnest—allowing water to absorb the most minerals as it bubbles to the surface. Infused with natural Hungarian botanicals of Sunflower, Evening Primrose, Peach, Apricot, Sea Buckthorn Berry and Flaxseed extracts, bioengineered botanicals Gatuline® RC (from Beech Tree Buds), Merospheres-V (from Rosemary) and DETOSKIN™ (from Peonies) and a Bioidentical Triple Lipid Complex. 

Helps reduce the look of fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, uneven skin tone and texture for firmer, smoother, healthier and younger-looking skin. You’ll see firmer, smoother, younger-looking skin in 7 days.

My moisturizer was running out so when I chanced upon Peter Thomas Roth Hungarian Thermal Water Mineral-Rich Moisturizer on a sale, it was the perfect chance to try it out. You can check out my previous reviews on Peter Thomas Roth 24K Gold Mask, Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber De-Tox Hydra-Gel Eye Patches and Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF45.

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Peter Thomas Roth Hungarian Thermal Water Mineral-Rich Moisturizer comes in an elegant 50ml round jar, however, some may be iffy about the hygienic factor so you can either decant the contents into a smaller tub or use a spatula.

[ Review ] : Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Cloud Cream Cleanser

Product Description
This non-stripping, fragrance-free cream cleanser gently removes makeup, excess oil and impurities while moisturizing skin with pure water vapor drawn from the atmosphere. Helps maintain skin’s moisture levels for a radiant, more youthful-looking complexion. Hyaluronic Acid can attract and retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water from moisture in the air. Sodium PCA and Coconut Oil nourish skin while Marshmallow Root Extract helps soften and soothe. Leaves skin feeling silky soft, smooth and residue-free. Ophthalmologist-tested for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Made in USA, Peter Thomas Roth believes in breakthrough formulas with astonishing results by using powerful ingredients to deliver state of the art quality at effective concentrations. You can check out my previous reviews on Peter Thomas Roth 24K Gold Mask, Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber De-Tox Hydra-Gel Eye Patches and Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF45.

Honestly speaking, cleansers is the only category which I am less adventurous about. I tend to stick to the same group of cleansers which my finicky skin likes but most of them are not easily available in Singapore so when one of the authorized retailers stopped selling my favourite Naturalmente Breathe Skin Therapy Moisturizing Cleanser Emulsion, it was time to look out for another cleanser.

I purchased Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Cloud Cream Cleanser on a whim and regretted my purchase immediately after using it for the first time. Read more below and find out why this cleanser is not the one for me.

[ Review ] : Dermaline Bio Antiaging PDRN Eye Cream

Product Description
Dermaline Bio Antiaging PDRN Eye Cream deeply nourishes and moisturizes skin around the eyes. The natural active ingredients that make it up improve the tone and condition of the skin and fight age-related changes. Recommended in daily care for dry, sensitive, aging skin. It is used after mesotherapeutic procedures to accelerate epithelization. The skin around the eyes becomes smooth, light, swelling, dryness and hyperemia disappear.

Benefits :
- Helps repair and restore skin cells to improve skin elasticity
- Gentle and soothing for dry skin
- Improves fine lines, enhances skin cells repair ability so as to restore skin to its health state.

I won Dermaline Bio Antiaging PDRN Eye Cream in a giveaway hosted by @bestheticsg on Instagram last year.

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Made in Korea, the PDRN Eye Cream comes in a 30ml round plastic tub. The texture appears to be almost similar to the Dermaline Bio Antiaging PDRN Cream but lighter in consistency and with lesser fragrance. It has a subtle cooling sensation during application. 

[ Review ] : Dermaline Bio Antiaging PDRN Cream

Product Description
Bioregenerating cream prevents the skin from withering, smoothens and reduces the depth of wrinkles and also increases its tone and vitality. Promotes deep hydration, reduces inflammation, relieves peeling has regenerative properties, maintains skin firmness and elasticity. Actively affects the production of collagen, promotes the production of elastin in the cells of the epidermis, reduces the number of wrinkles, reduces their depth. It has a rejuvenating and moisturizing effect, accelerates skin regeneration.

Benefits :
1) 4300ppm of PDRN strengthen skin's barrier, delay aging process.
2) Derived from purified plant extracts, providing intense hydration for whole day
3) Niacinamide enables dull skin to become brighter and healthier looking

I won a Dermaline Bio Antiaging PDRN Cream and a PDRN Eye Cream in a giveaway hosted by @bestheticsg on Instagram last year. Prior to this, I have never heard of the brand and is glad that I have a chance to try them out for the last couple of months.

Made in Korea, Dermaline is a cosmetics brand that combines beauty and technology. It uses natural-originated plant ingredients and minimizes the use of chemical materials.

Representing the BIO ANTIAGING PDRN LINE line in the anti-aging skin care segment, Dermaline uses Polynucleotides (PDRN) which are said to restore the structure of the skin from the inside, increasing the production of collagen and combating the causes of aging.

Possessing an immunomodulatory effect, PDRN polynucleotides stimulate regeneration and repair processes, enhance the synthesis of elastin, collagen and non-collagen molecules. Promotes optimal hydration as well as protection against UVA and UVB which leads to a general improvement in skin condition, visible rejuvenation and lifting effect. You can check out the list of their products here.

[ Review ] The Saem Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick

Product Description
Hydrate your eyes with this adorable polar bear hydrating stick! It contains pure mineral water from Iceland that helps liven up any look! It helps reduce puffiness, and the hydration helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Also contains hydrolyzed collagen is another key ingredient for anti-aging! Keep this cute bear with you everywhere you go with. Its easy and convenient packaging.

I purchased The Saem Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick when I was in Korea then. As much as I like to say I don't succumb to cute packaging, sometimes I do, especially if the price is reasonable. HAHA!

Packaging, Scent and Texture

The Saem Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick is housed in a cylinder-like tube with a cute polar bear design as shown above.

Just like how a lip balm works, you twist and turn the tube to get the stick contents out - it has a cooling sensation and a strong perfume-y fragrance. Just imagine how a glue stick looks like and you get the drift.

Performance and Ingredients 

Amazon has pretty good reviews on The Saem Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick. However, it just didn't work for me. The product felt too gimmicky and the cooling sensation doesn't last beyond than 3 minutes. It is said to come from the Iceland Mineral Water but I think the the high alcohol content also plays a part.

While the silky smooth textured eye stick glides easily on the undereye area or wherever you need depuffing, its not exactly a gentle product as the stick is quite stiff and I am afraid of tugging and causing more fine lines than necessary.

Yet at the same time, the product felt too mild to be able to do anything to the undereye area. The texture is thin and doesn't provide any reassurance that it can eradicate eye bags or hydrate my dry undereye area.

That said, it is kind of relaxing with the cool sensation ( which lasted for about 3 minutes ) but thats about it. You can also keep it in the fridge for a better experience.

After 2 months of twice daily usage, I still don't see any difference to the undereye area, not that I expect it would. If your eyes are tired, you can use the Hydrating Eye Stick and treat it as a mini eye spa relaxing session but don't expect too much.

In terms of ingredients, The Saem Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick uses 5% Iceland Mineral Water to provide the cooling sensation. It is not caused by menthol or artificial ingredients. Iceland Moss, Kelp and Iceland plants helps to provide moisture.

Iceland Moss - Soothing for sensitive skin
Iceland Plant - Brightening
Xylitol - Cooling
Niacinamide - Whitening
Adenosine - Anti-wrinkle

Water, Butylene Glycol, Alcohol, Sodium Stearate, Sodium Palmitate, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Xylitol, Glycerin, PEG-8, Bis_PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Niacinamide, Dimethicone, Sodium Citrate, Potassium Alginate, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance, 1,2-Hexanediol, Citric Acid, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Cetraria Islandica Extract, Adenosine, Ascorbic Acid, Arginine, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Steareth-20, N-Hydroxysuccinimide, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Potassium Sorbate, Chrysin, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

Where To Purchase : Amazon | Shopee | Yesstyle
The Saem Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick

The Saem Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick ( Shopee )

Conclusion

The Saem Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick doesn't work for me but with the raving reviews on Amazon, who knows, it may just work for you!

[ Review ] : Missha Airy Fit Sheet Mask ( Aloe )

Product Description
Perfect adhesion like glutinous rice cake! Skin-fit daily sheet mask to deliver active ingredients to the skin effectively by sticky adhesion. Containing aloe vera extract with excellent moisturizing resistance for rough skin by dryness, it helps to strengthen the skin with forming a moisturizing layer.

Hailing from Korea, Missha offers a wide range of affordable quality products for your skin's needs and beauty solutions. It carries a wide range from skincare to body. You can check out the full range here.

I received a sheet of Missha Airy Fit Sheet Mask ( Aloe ) as a free gift with my Missha purchases in Korea some time back.

The sheet mask is made of a natural-derived eco-friendly sheet that has an excellent air permerability due to its thin and light fabric. The material is very sheer, fits snugly and adheres very well to skin.

The cutting is pretty good except for a smaller lip cutout. There is a slight aloe scent mixed with some fragrance.

The mask provides a cold and refreshing sensation and after a 20 minutes masking session,  my skin was brighter and smoother although the redness on the broken capillaries on the sides of my nose were still apparent.

Where To Purchase : Missha Airy Fit Sheet Mask ( Aloe ) | Yesstyle

In terms of ingredients, the key ingredient as touted is Aloe, which holds high moisture retention for dry skin, soothes and strengthens the skin. However, it is found at the last 1/3 of the list which meant that the concentration is not high.

Other ingredients include :
Coptis Japonica Root Extract : anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial abilities
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract : great antioxidant, UV protectant, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic and antimicrobial properties
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract : antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract : skin lightening
Hyaluronic Acid : provides moisturizing and anti-aging benefits

Check out the full ingredients breakdown on Incidecoder.

Ingredients :
Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycereth-26, Glycerin, Propanediol, 1, 2-Hexanediol, Butylene glycol, Allantoin, Sodium Carbomer, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Disodium EDTA, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Beta-Glucan, Canarium Luzonicum Gum Nonvolatiles, Cupressus Sempervirens Oil

[ Review ] : Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil

Product Description
There's only one ingredient in this bottle: pure, organic, natural Argan Oil. This multi-tasker nourishes and conditions. Absorbs easily into skin, intensely hydrating and leaving behind a dewy glow.

CRUELTY FREE, VEGAN, PARABEN FREE, SULFATE FREE, GLUTEN FREE, PHTHALATE FREE, SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCE FREE, MINERAL OIL FREE, FORMALDEHYDE FREE, PEG FREE

I won a giveaway hosted by Sergei Shumilin on Instagram where a 15ml sized Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil was part of the goodies, sent to me all the way from Russia.

Hailing from USA, Josie Maran believes in pure intentions when making their products, resulting in a 100% Argan Oil in its most powerful form. An all-in-one in one drop, the one that nourishes, protects and hydrates on a deeper level to go beyond skin's surface, restore what's underneath and awaken your heart.

Packaging, Texture and Scent

I was elated when I first received Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil as it was on my wishlist since many years ago. The 15ml traved sized argan oil comes in a convenient portable dropper bottle.

Simply fell in love with the functional medicine-dropper dispenser on first use - the rubber is soft and easy to depress and the oil oozes out easily. I came across many droppers in the past where it is stiff and doesn't dispense the oils fully.

The colour is clear and it has a subtle nutty scent, commonly associated with argan oil. As a oil, it does feel slightly greasy but is easily absorbed into the skin, leaving a hint of shine behind.

Performance and Ingredients

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil is a moisturizing, multipurpose oil to hydrate skin, hair and nails. You can use it as a hydrating moisturizer, treat split ends, condition cuticles and soften rough feet and toes.

A little goes a long way as too much may be an overkill. Since last year, I no longer use facial oils for the face as my combination-dehydrated skin type prefer water based moisturisers, rather than oil-based moisturisers.  ( Simple put, if you have dry skin, use oil-based moisturisers )

Read : Difference Between Skin Dryness and Dehydration

I usually use the 100% Argan Oil as a body oil, where I apply it on damp skin, straight after shower. I also use it as a leave-in hair conditioner by applying on the hair ends or just before shampoo. At night, before I sleep, I apply it on the hands to condition my hands, nails and cuticles.

As a body oil : It moisturises my skin well, leaving a glowy sheen.

As a hair conditioner : It left my hair much softer and manageable.

As a hand/nail oil : I didn't notice a significant difference to my perpetually dry hands though.

The product scored 3.8 from 498 users on Makeupalley where 61% would repurchase the product.

In terms of ingredients, it contains only 1 ingredient - argan oil. Argan Oil has been clinically proven to significantly improve skin hydration and smoothness and to visibly reduce coarse lines and wrinkles in just 4 weeks.

Loaded with Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, Argan Oil has amazing conditioning properties. Argan oil benefits your skin head to toe, even hair and nails. It is an an organic multitasker, with  Nature’s richest source of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E which helps to nourish dry, sensitive and normal skin

Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil*
*ORGANIC

Where To Purchase : 
Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil 

[ Review ] Urtekram Nordic Berries Shampoo + Leave In Spray Conditioner ( Repairing )

Urtekram Nordic Berries Shampoo Product Description
The exotic berry combination shampoo leaves a wonderful berry sensation and also protects your hair and scalp!

Urtekram Nordic Berries Leave in Spray Conditioner Product Description
This leave-in spray conditioner supplies dry, damaged hair with vitamins and nutrients. Makes your hair look smooth and healthy.


Urtekram International A/S is Scandinavia's largest wholesaler of organic Skin and Hair products. As Denmark's largest supplier of organic colonial and body care products, Urtekram is said to be at the forefront in the development of new, ecological concepts and production methods.

Since 1972, Urtekram has manufactured pure and natural body and hair care products that are now sold in more than 36 countries (including all of the EU), which are made with vegetable ingredients (except Urtekram’s lip gloss which contains beeswax). All Urtekram products are cruelty free and without endocrine disrupting parabens and synthetic preservatives.

I purchased Urtekram Nordic Berries Shampoo and Leave In Spray Conditioner quite some time back. At 250ml each, the shampoo lasted me for slightly more than a month with daily usage while the leave-in conditioner lasted much much longer as I only use it when I need to leave the house.

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Urtekram Nordic Berries Shampoo is housed in a plastic bottle with a flick top cap that dispenses the shampoo effortlessly. It has a lovely berries-like fragrance.

Initially, I wasn't too fond of the shampoo as it does not foam or lather much and I needed to use twice as much, to ensure that my hair was cleansed well. After awhile, I got used to it but still needed that much quantity.

Urtekram Nordic Berries Leave in Spray Conditioner comes in a plastic bottle with a spray nozzle that dispenses the conditioner in a mist. It also has a similar delicious berries-like fragrance as the shampoo.

Performance and Ingredients

Urtekram Nordic Berries Shampoo cleanses well, without much drying after-feel. It is a gentle and mild formula that would suit most hair types.

Urtekram Nordic Berries Leave in Spray Conditioner left my hair feeling slightly softer and smoother on regular days. Once I coloured my hair and it has turned drier, the Spray Conditioner definitely plays a part in detangling and making it less dry.

In terms of ingredients, both the shampoo and conditioner contain vitamins and antioxidants from antioxidant rich Nordic Berries like Sea Bucktorn, Blueberry, Cranberry and Rosehip combined with Hyaluronic Acid which provides the hair with great nourishment and moisture. Willow bark extract supports the balance of the scalp and enhances the effect of the other plant ingredients.

Shampoo Ingredients
Water, aloe vera*, plant-based oil products, coconut and corn sugar soap, glycerine**, sea buckthorn extract*, blueberry extract*, rosehip extract*, willow bark extract*, cranberry extract*, cane sugar*, sweet orange oil*, lemon oil*, hyaluronic acid, salt, polysaccharides, perfume (mixture of natural extracts and essential oils), vitamin E

* = organic.
** = made using organic ingredients. 13 % organic of total 44 % organic of total minus water and minerals
100 % natural origin of total COSMOS ORGANIC certified by Ecocert Greenlife according to COSMOS Standard

Conditioner Ingredients
Aqua, aloe barbadensis leaf extract*, glycerin**, glyceryl caprylate, vaccinium macrocarpon fruit extract*, salix purpurea bark extract*, hippophae rhamnoides fruit extract*, vaccinium myrtillus fruit extract*, saccharum officinarum extract*, rosa canina fruit extract*, sodium hyaluronate, magnolia officinalis bark extract, distearoylethyl dimonium chlorid, cetearyl alcohol, parfum, polyglyceryl-4 caprate, citrus aurantium dulcis peel oil*, citrus limon peel oil*, sodium hydroxide, limonene, linalool

* From certified organic farming.
** Produced with organic ingredients.

Where To Purchase : Amazon | Shopee

Urtekram Nordic Berries Shampoo

Urtekram Nordic Berries Shower Gel

Urtekram Nordic Berries Body Lotion

Urtekram Nordic Berries Shampoo ( Shopee ) 

Urtekram Leave In Spray Conditioner ( Shopee )

Conclusion 

This is my first foray into the brand "Urtekram" and it has definitely piqued my interest in their products, with their gentle formula and clean ingredients. If you have normal hair type, you might benefit from this set of shampoo and leave-on conditioner.

[ Review ] : Sabon Patchouli Lavender Vanilla Body Scrub

Product Description
Revive your senses and revitalize your skin with the Patchouli Lavender Vanilla Dead Sea Body Scrub. We captured the healing properties of the Dead Sea in our signature body scrub, providing a natural way to feel and look amazing. Helps conceal stretch marks and cellulite, removes dead skin cells, stimulates circulation and leaves skin fragrant and silky smooth.

60g Travel Size

I purchased a 60g travel sized Sabon Patchouli Lavender Vanilla Body Scrub during a sale recently. I was running out of body scrubs and Sabon caught my eye. I have previously used Sabon Delicate Jasmine Hand Cream but didn't like it too much.

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Sabon Patchouli Lavender Vanilla Body Scrub comes in a 60g glass jar with a metal cap and rustic-like brown paper on the cap with the brand and product name.

The moment I twist opened the cap, I know I have fallen in love with the scent. I love Lavender and Vanilla scents separately but when combined together, it was just heavenly.

Unfortunately, the texture of the body scrub was slightly abrasive due to the fine sea salt contents.

Performance and Ingredients

Sabon Patchouli Lavender Vanilla Body Scrub worked well to give smoother and softer skin. Adding on the heavenly scent, I really like it as a body scrub, except for its abrasive-ness.

Sulphate-free and paraben-free, the formula contains Vitamin E, Almond, Jojoba, and Borage oils. The inclusion of Dead Sea Minerals help to penetrate skin and eliminate impurities.

However, after using up the whole jar, I noticed that the inner rims of the metal cap has oxidised ( rust ) which isn't a pretty sight. Perhaps the air and water has made it rust even more quickly and if thats the case, Sabon may need to relook into an alternative solution.

Sodium Chloride ( Sea Salt), Isopropyl Myristate, Parfum, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Laureth-4, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, 1,2-Octandiol & 3- Phenyl-1-Propanol, Benzophenone-3, Tocopheryl Acetate, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Carapa Guaianesis Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Borago Officinalis (Borage) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil & Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil, Hydroxycitronellal, Benzyl Benzoate, Butylphenyl Methylpropional

[ Review ] : First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

Product Description
Head-to-toe moisturizer that provides instant relief and long-term hydration for dry, distressed skin, even eczema. The beautiful, whipped texture is instantly absorbed with no greasy after-feel. Safe for sensitive skin, the cream can be used by all members of the family, even children and babies.

Banish dry skin with First Aid Beauty's Ultra Repair Cream. Suitable for all skin types, especially dry, flaky skin, this hydration wonder leaves skin feeling smooth, hydrated and comfortable after just a single use. Formulated with Colloidal Oatmeal, Shea Butter, Ceramide 3 and the FAB Antioxidant Booster, it provides immediate relief and visible improvement for parched skin and it is clinically proven to increase hydration by 169% immediately upon application. This clean formulation is allergy tested, safe for sensitive skin, and fragrance free.

First Aid Beauty, FAB for short, provide everyday essentials and targeted skincare solutions that deliver immediate relief, lasting results and feel-good textures. Their products are formulated with only clean, skin-loving ingredients. The ingredients are carefully selected so one don’t have to worry about what’s in (and not in) your skincare products. There are over 1,300 ingredients on FAB’s no-no list, including Artificial Colorants and Artificial Fragrances, Parabens, Ethanol, Ethyl Alcohol, Denatured Alcohol, Methanol, N-Butyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Alcohol, SD Alcohol, Lanolin, Propylene Glycol, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, Formaldehydes, Oxybenzone, Coal Tar, Hydroquinone, Triclosan, Triclocarban, Talc and Sulfates.

All of their products are formulated with skin nurturing ingredients, are allergy or safety-in-use tested, and strike the perfect balance between efficacious, yet safe for sensitive skin. There truly is no other brand as committed to sensitive skin as First Aid Beauty.

[ Review ] Oab's Soap Coffee Scrub

Product Description
Oab's Soap Coffee Scrub is a coffee soap and body scrub which contains Arabica Seed Powder, vitamins B and E from Paulina Capuna Seed which contains caffeine 2 times higher than coffee. Shea Butter and antioxidants from Curruma Long Root also help remove old skin cells and clear out dark spots noticeably. It promotes skin to be smooth, soft and radiant since the first use. The soap has a rich coffee scent and it is good for everyone even a pregnant woman.

Benefits : 
- Detoxifies skin and expels out toxins accumulated on skin pores
- Exfoliates dead skin cells and improves skin appearances to be smooth and soft
- Eliminates acne, reduces dark spots, and tightens skin pores
- Reduces stretch marks, cellulite, and orange peel skin

I purchased Oab's Soap Coffee Scrub from Beautrium, Bangkok just because coffee scrubs always entice me. There was a 1 for 1 promotion and I gifted one to my sister. Hopefully it works well for her, although it did not work out for me.

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Oab's Soap Coffee Scrub comes in a vintage-looking purple box with a soap foaming net enclosed. The soap foaming net helps to lather so you can insert the soap into the net and use both together.

There is a coffee and soap fragrance and once used together with the net, the soap bar lathers to very rich foam and is easy to glide on skin.

Performance and Ingredients

Unfortunately, as with all soap bars, Oab's Soap Coffee Scrub was very drying ( squeaky clean sensation ) for my skin type since Day 1 and I have since passed it to my hubby who has a more resilient skin. He likes using it, although it does left a slight drying feel after rinsing off.

Arabica Seed Powder : nourishes deep into the skin, reduces roughness.
Curcuma Longa Root Powder : anti-aging benefits, reduces swelling and cellulite
Turmeric : eliminate or reduce acne and wrinkles, freckles
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil : rich in vitamin E which has aging and skin firming benefits
Shea Butter : helps retain moisture and restores dry skin.

Conclusion

To conclude, Oab's Soap Coffee Scrub is not suitable for me as its extremely drying for my skin type. It might work well for others though.

Where To Purchase : Amazon
Oab's Soap Coffee Scrub
Oab's Soap Coffee Scrub x 5 qty

[ Review ] Lapothicell Natural Mineral Sun Protection SPF 50 PA++++

Product Description
The LAPOTHICELL NATURAL MINERAL SUN PROTECTION SPF50+ PA++++ is a powerful sunscreen that protects the skin against UV rays, and helps soothe and protect sun-irritated skin. It is mild enough for use on sensitive skin, and for use by kids. It has a light and gentle texture that won’t leave the skin feeling sticky or hinder makeup application.

Hailing from Korea, Lapoticell is a name coined by joining "l’apothicaire", an old French word
for pharmacists who used to prescribe individuals with appropriate medicine, and "cell" for cutting-edge skin technology.

Lapoticell proposes a simple method of applying four easy formulas to love your skin.
Add what skin wants, subtract skin concerns, multiply functions on skin and even out skin tone.

Lapothicell promises to use only credible ingredients with multiple efficacies and high-quality substances. Their products do not contain artificial scents and coloring and only use minimum
amounts of preservatives.

I purchased Lapothicell Natural Mineral Sun Protection SPF 50 PA++++ when I was in Korea, after coming across reviews on Instagram.

Packaging, Scent and Texture 

Lapothicell Natural Mineral Sun Protection SPF 50 PA++++ comes in a white clinical tube with blue and white fonts. It has a nice floral scent and the texture is slightly thick and creamy with a cooling sensation.

Before Massaging

After Massaging

I was initially put off by the obvious white cast and the difficulty in blending on my fair skin but I came to love it, with time, because I noticed it helped to neutralize the redness on my skin and made my skin appeared better. In fact, the white cast has become less obvious the more I used it.

Do note that the last 5% of contents were difficult to be dispensed from the tube and I had to cut the tube to deplete them.

Performance and Ingredients

Lapothicell Natural Mineral Sun Protection was a little drying with a taut feel on skin and hands when I first started using it while pairing with Kora Organics Cream Cleanser, Balancing Rose Mist and Hydrating Moisturiser.

Thereafter, it was less drying after I added So Senz Serum into my skincare routine, prior to sunscreen application.

With the right hydrating skincare products, Lapothicell Natural Mineral Sun Protection can work pretty well and because the white cast also help to minimize the redness on skin, my skin looked relatively better even without makeup.

The product uses Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide to protect against UVA ( A for aging ) and UVB rays ( B for burning ).

Other ingredients include :
Salvia Hispanica Seed Extract : Also known as chia seeds. Contains Omega-3 fatty acids which works as an antioxidant to hydrate and calm your skin.
Centella Asiatica Extract : Contains potent antioxidant properties and is  a rich source of amino acids, with additional research showing that it’s a good hydrating ingredient to soothe upset or compromised skin.
Houttuynia Cordata Extract : An astringent and is anti-inflammatory.

You can also refer to CosDNA for the full ingredient list breakdown where it reflects that most of the ingredients have a low acne and irritability rating.

Water,Cyclopentasiloxane,Zinc Oxide,Propanediol,Titanium Dioxide(CI77891),PEG-10 Dimethicone,Dimethicone,Cyclomethicone, Disteardimonium Hectorite,Pentylene Glycol,Magnesium Sulfate,Salvia Hispanica Seed Extract,Centella Asiatica Extract,Houttuynia
Cordata Extract, Aluminum Hydroxide,Hydrogen Dimethicone,Stearic Acid,Dimethicone Crosspolymer,Sorbitan Sesquioleate,Phenyl Trimethicone, Fructooligosaccharides,Saccharide Hydrolysate,Pullulan,1,2-Hexanediol,Ethylhexylglycerin,Octyldodecanol,Anthemis
Nobilis Flower Extract,Butylene Glycol,Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil,Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil,Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract,Sodium Hyaluronate,Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/Leaf/Vine Extract,Panthenol,Tocopherol,Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract,
Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract,Salix Alba(Willow) Bark Extract,Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract,Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract,Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract,Phenoxyethanol,Fragrance

Where To Purchase : Shopee
Lapothicell Natural Mineral Sun Protection SPF 50 PA++++

Conclusion

To conclude, Lapothicell Natural Mineral Sun Protection is slightly drying on my combination-dehydrated skin type but with the right hydrating skincare routine, I can get it to work well. I don't mind repurchasing it.

Another physical sunscreen worth considering would be Axis-y Complete No Stress Physical Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++.

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[ Review ] Caolion Blackhead Steam Pore Pack + Pore Original Pack

Product Description
A detoxifying duo featuring a steaming mask that opens and deeply cleanses pores, then a cooling mask to tighten and minimise the appearance of pores.

The hot Premium Blackhead Steam Pore Pack cleans pore impurities and blackheads and exfoliates dead skin cells with grain powder and steaming effect. Charcoal powder helps extract excess sebum and residual makeup that can clog pores while natural sparkling water penetrates deeply into skin for enriched moisture. The cool Premium Pore Original Pack tightens enlarged pores, calming and revitalising the skin. It’s enriched with Alaskan glacial water to keep skin hydrated, even after removing the mask. An infusion of menthol provides a cooling sensation to soothe irritated skin.

CAOLION, the first Korean natural skincare brand, was created by a visionary woman who drew inspiration from nature's wisdom. Founded as a natural, visibly effective solution for sensitive skin, CAOLION marries rare craftsmanship with highly innovative formulation expertise to develop sensorial and effective skin care that reveals and enhances your natural beauty.

The brand does not use chemical and artificial fragrances but instead uses essential amounts of natural ingredients to hydrate and nourish the skin as well as to calm and rejuvenate skin.

I had the travel sized Caolion Blackhead Steam Pore Pack + Pore Original Pack 15g in my stash for awhile and had been using it twice a week for a month recently.

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Caolion Hot and Cool Pore Pack Duo comes in 2 tubs stacked upon one another. The top tub is the hot warming mask known as the Steam Pore Pack ( to open the pores ) and the bottom tub is the cooling mask known as the Pore Original Pack ( to close the pores ).

The Steam Pore Pack ( illustrated by red fonts on the packaging ) is a creamy clay mask with a subtle natural clay scent that applies easily on skin while the Pore Original Pack ( illustrated by blue fonts on packaging ) is a white clay mask that does not apply as easily as expected. It is stiff and slightly hard. I almost wondered if mine has expired.

Performance and Ingredients

Caolion Blackhead Steam Pore Pack is a self-heating mask that warms upon contact with skin. You can apply on the targeted areas or on the whole face, if you wish to. It contains charcoal, sparkling water, an exfoliating type of oat flour, as well as other nourishing ingredients like chamomile, olive, and camellia extract.

The charcoal and the oat flour provide a gentle exfoliation to the skin as the warmth opened up the pores to deep cleanse. Massage for 1 - 2 minutes and leave it for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water.

Some have mentioned that the heat can be tingly and intense but for mine, the warmth was pretty alright and acceptable. I use it all over my face without experiencing any redness.

Caolion Pore Original Pack can be used right after the hot mask or on another day, but I prefer to use it right after the hot mask to "close" the pores. You can store it in the fridge ( if you get the separate full retail sizes ) for maximum cold effect but since my tubs cannot be separated without exposing one or the other, I can only keep it in my skincare drawer.

Unfortunately, the cooling mask did not work very well as I thought it should. It has a minty scent but the texture was rather dry and difficult to glide onto skin but for those which did, it does feel minty and cooling on skin. Leave it for 10-15 minutes and rinse it off.

Containing volcanic ash and bentonite which purify and brighten the skin, the ingredients may be too much for sensitive skin, since both masks are also clay masks that could potentially dry out the skin, so use it on the following day, if you prefer to.

After the whole masking session, my pores were clean and skin was super smooth. I was very tempted to touch my baby smooth skin many times!

Caolion Blackhead Steam Pore Pack: 
Glycerin, Kaolin, Butylene Glycol, Polyethylene, Stearyl Alcohol, Charcoal Powder, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Zeolite, Carbonated Water, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Origanum Vulgare Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract, Saccharomyces/Imperata Cylindrica Root Ferment Extract, Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Saccharomyces/Viscum Album (Mistletoe) Ferment Extract, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Citric Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Vanillyl Butyl Ether, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Oil, Ardisia Crispa Extract, Propanediol, Volcanic Ash, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Illicium Verum (Anise) Fruit Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Laureth-7.

Caolion Pore Original Pack: 
Glacier Water, Glycerin, Kaolin, Bentonite, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer, Glyceryl Stearate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Isoamyl Laurate, Dimethicone, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Saccharomyces/Viscum Album (Mistletoe) Ferment Extract, Saccharomyces/Imperata Cylindrica Root Ferment Extract, Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Volcanic Ash, Ardisia Crispa Extract, Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Acanthopanax Koreanum Bark/Stem Oil Ferment Filtrate, Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Camellia Japonica Seed Oil Ferment

Conclusion

To conclude, if you have oily skin, large pores, congested skin and plenty of blackheads, do give Caolion Blackhead Steam Pore Pack + Pore Original Pack a try!


Where To Purchase : Sephora | Amazon
Caolion Premium Blackhead Steam Pore Pack

PS : If this is your first purchase on Sephora, you can use my Sephora Star code SEPHSTAR02441 so that you can get 15% off your purchase and I would get 100 points. Hurry! Only till 30 June 2020.