[ Review ] : Grown Alchemist Strengthening Shampoo 0.2

 

Product Description

Grown Alchemist Strengthening Shampoo 0.2 is an advanced formulation that thoroughly cleanses, while repairing hair weakened by chemical processes, heat styling and environmental exposure, leaving hair looking healthy, hydrated, soft and shiny.

If you have been following me for awhile, you probably know that I have tried a number of products from Grown Alchemist with the Grown Alchemist Hydra Restore Cream Cleanser as my absolute favourite. Not all products work fairly well for me though, so I won't count Grown Alchemist as my favourite brand but I do look forward to trying new products from them, time to time. 

Check out my past reviews on Grown Alchemist Balancing Toner, Grown Alchemist Detox Serum Antioxidant+3 Complex, Grown Alchemist Antioxidant Facial Oil, Grown Alchemist Polishing Facial Exfoliant ( Pink Grapefruit and Glucomannan Extract ), Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser and Grown Alchemist Hydra-Mist+

Hailing from Australia, Grown Alchemist formulates products which represent a new evolution in skincare through the understanding of cellular renewal and nutrient metabolisation,

With a holistic scientific approach, Grown Alchemist is said to identify the mechanisms that regulate the aging process of the body and skin by leveraging the body’s natural capability to slow and in many cases, reverse the aging of the body and in particular, the skin. Read more on their website. 

[ Review ] : Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil EX

 

Product Description

Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil EX is a mild cleansing oil that gently removes makeup and impurities with a refreshing texture. 

Coix Lacryma-Jobi (Job's Tears) Seed and Tangerine peel Extracts help to effectively remove impurities, while Apricot Kernel Oil removes dead skin cells for clearer and healthier skin foundation.

The oil spreads smoothly to cleanse your makeup and impurities gently and quickly. When it mixes with water, the wash-off ingredients are activated for a refreshing finish.

I have a soft spot for Sulwhasoo and have recently used up Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Water and Sulwhasoo Radiance Energy Mask. Being a micellar water fan, I didn't have too much expectations for its cleansing oil but lo and behold, I actually enjoyed Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil EX much more than the Gentle Cleansing Water. 

Please note that while my product is stated as Gentle Cleansing Oil EX, the ingredients were the same as Gentle Cleansing Oil ( without the EX ) so I am not sure why is there a differentiation in the products naming and I am unable to find any information online. 

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil EX is housed in a 200ml bottle with its signature luxury brown tint colours. A pump is included for convenience as shown above. I actually do think that they can do away with the cap since the pump can be locked to prevent spillage. 

[ Review ] : Ampleur Luxury White W Protect UV+

 

Product Description

With SPF50+ PA++++, Ampleur Luxury White W Protect UV+ protects your skin not only from UV rays but also from blue light and environmental stress such as air pollution, which accelerates skin aging. It also contains beauty-boosting ingredients such as high-penetration Collagen and Squalane. 

Sun protection is key to younger skin! Other than incorporating Foods That Fight UV Damage, it is also important to check if your Medications Cause You To Be Sun Sensitive.

Ampleur Singapore reached out to me some time back to try out their bestselling product, Luxury White W Protect UV+, in return for an honest review. 

Hailing from Japan, Ampleur is a Japanese skincare brand developed by WOVE Clinic, a medical corporation in Tokyo in 2003. It is a leading doctor-developed cosmetic brand based on cutting-edge research of aesthetic dermatology. You can read more about the company and its brand here as well as its range of products on Shopee. 

Packaging, Scent and Texture 

Ampleur Luxury White W Protect UV+ is housed in a 30ml tube with a minimalistic-luxury vibe. It has a heavy floral-chamomile fragrance with a hint of a alcohol scent. White in colour, the texture is lightweight and applies with a subtle cooling sensation. 

[ Review ] : IDS Delicate Cleanser (C2), IDS C-Plus (C+), IDS Dermashield Serum (DS)

 

I received some IDS products from my First Visit To IDS Clinic earlier this year and on my second visit for Facial Treatment At IDS Aesthetics, I had inflammed skin due to the treatment and was prescribed with IDS Delicate Cleanser (C2), IDS Moisturizer and Recovery Serum.

I am not obligated to review the products but I will still like to share my thoughts after using them. You can also check out my reviews on IDS Refreshing Cleanser (C1), Refreshing Toner (T1) and Intensive Moisturizer (IM). 

Do note that the PAO ( period after opening ) for these products is 6 months. 

IDS Delicate Cleanser (C2) is a cleanser mild enough for sensitive skin as it lathers into a soft foam to help remove regular makeup as well as lift away surface dirt, grime and pollutants. It also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant botanical extracts to help combat redness, environmental stress and soften the skin.

How To Use :

1) Pump twice onto your palm and gently rub hands together to form a soft foam. 

2) Massage onto damp skin, avoiding the eye area before rinsing well. 

Manufactured in Singapore, IDS Delicate Cleanser (C2) comes in a tall and slim 100ml bottle with a pump dispenser. Similar to IDS Refreshing Cleanser (C1), the pump is stiff and unable to depress fully down and initially, I thought it malfunctioned but after experiencing that in the second cleanser, I believe that this is by default. Note that the gel contents can still be dispensed. 

Zahara Queen Nail Polish + Kanebo Coffret D'or Jewelight Nail Color RD-58

 

Queen is a rose gold metallic nail polish shade which is the first rose gold pearlescent satin shade by Zahara. With light-reflecting properties, she brings dimension and a subtle soft glam to your nails. A wonderful and versatile shade that can be worn as a topper over any coloured nail polish or even on its own, providing a layer of glamour and opulence - fit for a Queen.

Made in France, Zahara’s products are vegan, cruelty-free and the formula is also halal-certified. For the uninitiated, Halal nail polishes avoid alcohol in their ingredients or use only Shariah-compliant forms of alcohol, or vegan-friendly ingredients with no traces of animal by-products. Halal certification can also be done by an independent halal certification board.

This was my first foray into Zahara and I am so impressed with the quality and how easy for an amateur like me, to use Queen. Effortless is the one word that can be used to describe the application. 1 to 2 coats are enough for the opacity that I required. It glides on the nails so easily. So smooth and no smudges. Simply love it so much! 

The shade is not that striking and would be great for daily wear, on days when you just want your nails to look alittle more polished. Drying time is fast too!

Zahara’s breathable nail polishes are specially formulated to allow water and oxygen particles to pass through the polish and reach your nails as this helps nails stay hydrated and strong! No more weak, brittle and stained nails!

Adding on, it is non-toxic and 10-free from these common chemicals found in most nail polishes - No formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, parabens, acetone, TPHP, TBHP and gluten.

Where To Purchase : Shopee

BUTYL ACETATE, ETHYL ACETATE, NITROCELLULOSE, ADIPIC ACID/NEOPENTYL GLYCOL/TRIMELLITIC ANHYDRIDE COPOLYMER, ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE, ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL, MICA, TRIMETHYLSILOXYSILICATE, N-BUTYL ALCOHOL, PHOSPHORIC ACID, SUCROSE ACETATE ISOBUTYRATE, DIACETONE ALCOHOL, DIMETHICONE, ACRYLATES COPOLYMER, TIN OXIDE, TRIMETHYLPENTANEDIYL DIBENZOATE, SILICA, STEARALKONIUM BENTONITE, BENZOPHENONE-1, IRON OXIDES (CI 77491), TITANIUM DIOXIDE (CI 77891), YELLOW 5 LAKE (CI 19140), IRON OXIDES (CI 77499)

Kanebo Coffret Dor Jewelight Nail Color RD-58 is a lovely pink-red glittery shade which looks lighter than what is shown on the nail polish bottle. The glitters add another dimension to boring solid colours so its pretty versatile as you can also wear it on its own.  

It applies sheer and is easy to use. 

On days when I want my nail colour to look more obvious, I just apply another 2 coats of Coffret Dor Jewelight Nail Color RD-58 on top of Zahara Queen and ta-da! - a sweet vibe!

Where To Purchase : Adambeauty

And of course, with glitters, more time and effort are required to remove them as compared to conventional nail polishes but its still not that bad. 

Its been awhile since I last shared any nail polish posts, as I haven't been wearing them often. Nevertheless, hope you enjoy it. 

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[ Review ] : Cute Press Booster Serums ( Full Night Sleep, Brightening, Calming Cica )

 

I received Cute Press 8hr Full Night Sleep Booster Serum, 1 Week Brightening Booster Serum and 6 Free Calming Cica Booster Serum from Cute Press Singapore last month. 

This skincare series has proven to be the one of the biggest growth category for Cute Press Thailand in 2021 with every 1 purchase per 30 second. Doesn't that sound amazing? 

Together with their Sleeping Masks, they are touted to give you X2 benefits, known as X2 Self Care Duo concept! Care to find out more? Lets delve in....

[ Review ] : MKUP Real Complexion Cream Derm White Moisture Shield

 

Product Description

MKUP Real Complexion Cream Derm White Moisture Shield is a brightening color-correcting, pores minimizing face cream that uses natural colours from roses and groomwell root to create a natural flawless face glow without the need for makeup. 

It is an effective whitening moisturizer, packed with potent formulation of 2% Tranexamic Acid, Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid, to effectively lightens and whitens skin and fully boosted with water. 

Dull, uneven skin with big pores transformed immediately to beautiful naked skin without the need of makeup or harsh cleansing so that skin can have more time to breathe and heal to its optimal level. 

Hailing from Taiwan, MKUP is professional makeup designed for beginners with the motto " Zero Burden, Zero technique, Seamless Application " to achieve your perfect look. It is vegan friendly, alcohol-free, paraben-free and 100% cruelty-free. 

I won a 50ml size of MKUP Real Complexion Cream Derm White Moisture Shield from a surprise giveaway ( the prizes were picked randomly ) and has been using it occasionally. I was happy to be given a chance to try this popular product but unfortunately, it just doesn't fit into my usual skincare routine. Read more below....

Packaging, Scent and Texture 

MKUP Real Complexion Cream Derm White Moisture Shield comes in a pretty plastic bottle with a pink cap. It has a pump design to prevent oxidation where you just depress it lightly to get the contents out for usage. 

[ Review ] : Lalarecipe Glow Face Moisture Mask, Heart Google Moisture Mask, Brightening Mask

 

I received Lalarecipe Glow Face Moisture Mask, Heart Google Moisture Mask and Heart Google Brightening Mask as part of a campaign on 0.8 liter. 

Hailing from Korea, LALARECIPE is a "unique natural Cosmetics" that considers both Unique and Eco-friendly. Based on the philosophy of five environments and Ethics with the sensuous designs and Uniqueness, the brand pursues a truly eco-friendly and ethnically oriented brand that uses only Vegan Formula and Cruelty-Free (No tests on Animals) ingredients. 

It is a beauty brand founded by a cosmetic product planning specialist, professor with more than 20 years of experience. Based on her proficiency and expertise, she started LALARECIPE to offer safe, unique and enjoyable beauty experience. 

Lalarecipe Glow Face Moisture Mask is a hydrogel mask containing 88.5% natural ingredients and 8 layers of Hyaluronic Acid. The jelly mask has a cooling effect, fights skin aging and improves its elasticity. Additionally, the formula consists of 9 types of peptides, plant-based collagen and amino acids. In short: all ingredients needed to hydrate and brighten your skin! The mask has an amazing watermelon scent and contains glitter for an extra glowy effect.

How To Use:

1) The mask consists of 2 components. 

2) Firstly, apply the upper part onto a clean skin by removing the protection layer and placing it around the eyes. 

3) Then apply the bottom part in the same manner around the mouth. 

4) Leave it on for 20 minutes. If any glitter remains on your skin, those are easy to remove.

[ Review ] : The Plant Base Magic Foam A1+, Mielrose Petal Essence, Time Stop Collagen Ampoule, Pure N Moisture Cream

I am thankful and grateful to be selected as one of the winners for #TryMeReviewMe event from StyleKorean last year. So long you have an Instagram, Blog or You Tube channels, you can take part in their monthly events stated here but you may not necessarily be selected.

This was my first participation so I didn't expect to win but when I did, I was incredibly thankful for it. I was drawn to this brand, The Plant Base which formulates skin care with plant extracts based.

Try Me Box

Products are stored in a drawstring bag

Full sized products

The 4 products received were The Plant Base AC Clear Magic Foam A1+ 120ml, Mielrose Petal Essence 100ml, Time Stop Collagen Ampoule 20ml and AC Clear Moisture Pure N Cream 55ml. 

Hailing from Korea and launched in 2005 as the most famous natural soap brand, THE PLANT BASE has been manufacturing 100% handmade natural soaps and entered skin care business because of continuous consumer demand. Their high performance products are hypoallergenic and formulated with only natural plants and certified organic ingredients. You can trace the brand history here.

Instead of using refined water, The Plant Base's products are based on plant extracted water with real natural ingredients. They are obtained by distilling plants for 72 hours. 

[ Review ] : L'occitane Almond Shower Oil

 

Product Description

This shower oil magically transforms into a milk upon contact with water, gently cleansing and hydrating your skin in a luxurious and heavenly-smelling, spa-like shower experience

I redeemed a 50ml L'occitane Almond Shower Oil after sending 10 empty bottles and tubs for their recycling campaign. Its a great way for consumers to try more of their products before investing in the full sizes while doing good for the environment, although lets try to aim for "refuse, reduce, reuse and recycle" in our daily lives. 

L'occitane Almond Shower Oil is amber in colour with a thick gel texture. It smells nice with a subtle scent of fresh almond but doesn't glide as well as a typical shower gel as the oil seems to "tug" on the skin randomly. 

This shower oil transforms, when in contact with water, into a sheer, milky lotion that gently cleanses the body. The light suds helps provide a subtle lathering experience. 

The almond shower gel claims to cleanse, hydrate and soften skin as it nourishes and smoothens it. Indeed, it does cleanse well and nourishes my skin with a softening feel after showering.

Overall, its not something I would repurchase, for the price. 

Where To Purchase : Amazon | Shopee

L'occitane Almond Shower Oil contains the following key ingredients...

Sweet Almond Oil : Rich in omega 6 and 9, it nourishes and softens the skin. This almond oil is mostly used for its soothing and softening action on sensitive and dry skin.

Grape Seed Oil : Rich in omega 6 and 9, it nourishes and softens the skin.

VITIS VINIFERA (GRAPE) SEED OIL - TIPA-LAURETH SULFATE - LAURETH-3 - CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE - PARFUM/FRAGRANCE - COCAMIDE MEA - PROPYLENE GLYCOL - SORBITAN OLEATE - PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS (SWEET ALMOND) OIL - CITRUS AURANTIUM BERGAMIA (BERGAMOT) FRUIT OIL - HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL - ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS (ROSEMARY) LEAF EXTRACT - TOCOPHEROL - AQUA/WATER - LIMONENE - COUMARIN – LINALOOL