Review : My Beauty Diary Intensive Double Vitamin C Eye Mask


Product Description
Combats dark eye circles. Removes darkness around eyes.
Brightening and whitening.
Evens skin tone. Removes shadow.
Soothing and nourishing.

This looks interesting! I received 2 packs from a good friend of mine who just came back from her Taiwan trip. But when I was in Taiwan in May this year and needed to totalled up to a certain amount, I picked up this pack, even though I have yet to use those from my friend.

It is interesting to me, because it contains Vitamin C which would be good to brighten up the undereye area. Its been some time since I picked up eye masks from MBD as they are ususally more focused on face masks. This seems to be quite new in the market as I don't recall seeing it in most of the places.

My last eye mask from MBD was pretty useless, so I didn't really have any expectations from this. Still, being a beauty hoarder, I wanted to try it. It comes in 7 individually wrapped sheets, in a typically sweet girly pink packaging.

The shape is abit funny, as you can see from the illustations on the packaging. Abit silly, in my opinion because the slits are cut  too close for those with large eyes like mine. Thus, it becomes kind of a hassle as I need to re-adjust the eye patches every now and then.

Even though I had it layered for only 10 to 15minutes, I seemed to be re-adjusting it for like 3 times. Either my eyelid was irritated because its so close to my eyes, or that the top flap on the eyelids kept flapping down. The only way to use it, is to lie on bed. Everything would be secure.

It has a strong herbal scent, abit funny since it doesn't quite gelled with the girly packaging.
After each treatment before I slept, my undereye area becomes drier than before and the left undereye area become itchy which cause more rubbing to my eyes in order to relieve the itch. The stickiness which was apparent once the mask was removed, disappeared after a few minutes, leaving softer undereye area skin.

However, if I used it during the day, my undereye area did not feel any drier though there was still a slight itch.

Shop
MY BEAUTY DIARY Puffiness Intensive Care Eye Mask
MY BEAUTY DIARY 5 Piece Smoothness Intensive Care Eye Mask
MY BEAUTY DIARY Dark Circles Intensive Care Eye Mask

Belly Be Gone

Eat flat-belly foods.
Consuming more protein which you’ll find in meat, fish, dairy, and nuts, in exchange for carbs helps reduce overall belly fat. Some specific examples of flat-belly foods: almonds, beans, spinach, instant oatmeal, eggs, peanut butter, olive oil, whole grains, whey (protein powder). Want a specific diet plan? Check out The Abs Diet for Women (Fully Booked, P798) by David Zinczenko, editor-in-chief of Men’s Health US.

Be wary of sugar content.
It’s a no-brainer, but you won’t believe how sugar can lurk in the most innocuous of foods, from that extra plop of ketchup to the diet soda that’s lulled you into a false sense of “low-calorie” calm. Processed foods are major culprits. Take time to read nutrition labels. Use natural sweeteners like honey or cinnamon which won’t give you a sugar high and spike up the calories.

Be wary of salt content.
You’re on vacation; you want your belly to be as flat as possible, so you lie prone on the deck chair (that kinda flattens your tummy out)… and then promptly reach for the giant bag of chips. We know that salt retains water, so nutritionists suggest you keep your salt intake under 2,000 milligrams each day. Read the nutrition labels.

Relax.
You’ve heard of friends losing weight because of work or personal problems, but who the heck wants to lose weight being stressed out? Those friends are exceptions anyway. Yale University researchers say that your belly is four times as likely to store stress-induced fat compared to the rest of your body. Worry, and you produce extra cortisol, a hormone that prompts the body to store fat.

Get some exercise.
Three sessions a week will do. Do exercises that not only work out individual muscles but the entire core so that you’re getting the double-benefit of burning more fat while getting toned. The best workouts for the core and torching belly flab? Pilates, by far. Running comes next. Water sports can even be great core builders. Must-try: Stand-up paddleboarding; a sport that builds endurance and engages your core to keep your balance. There’s a group that explores various parts of the Philippines on their paddleboards.

Source : Femalenetwork

Review : Lemongrass House Mandarin Orange Salt Body Glow



Product Description
Our Salt Body Glow Scrub provides a rougher, more skin buffing exfoliation! Andaman Sea Salts and Vitamin C in emollient-rich Jojoba Oil removes all traces of roughness. While pure Cucumber and Aloe Vera leave your skin feeling soft and refreshed.

Unaware that this scrub is more abrasive than the previous one I used, I purchased this together with the shampoo and conditioner during my birthday month when there was a 20% storewide discount for members.

This 200g is so tightly packed with sea salts that I found it tough to scoop out the contents without spillage, making a mess on my bathroom top.
Unlike other scrubs which I have used before, this tub does not comes with much essential oil, to make it a more emollient scrub for the body. The salts were not tiny to begin with, and made a rough body scrub on my delicate skin.



Even though I don't fancy oiliness or having a moisturising veil after a scrub, this scrub was just disappointing for its lack of moisture factor and gentleness initially. Without the pure mandarin essential oil, the exfoliating factor becomes a tad too abrasive for my liking, even though it does make a good clean scrub.

I had tried to scoop up any pure mandarin essential oil from the bottom, together with the sea salts, but it just made the whole process bothersome and messy, with all the sea salt bits flying all over the place.
However, after using up 65% and leaving 35% left in the tub, I can finally see, smell and feel the aroma of the pure mandarin essential oil. Mixing in with the sea salts, it left a light layer of moisturising veil on the skin after a good body scrub. It was a better experience than the initial scare though I still found it to be more abrasive than other scrubs I owned.

That said, the scent is pleasant, with a light hint of Mandarin Orange fragrance. The naivety in me, thought it would be a scrub with orange coloured bits, but it turned out to be white with a hint of yellow.
I also like the full ingredient list, good stuff for the body.



Source : Lemongrass House

Review : Lemongrass House Lavender Shampoo and Conditioner


Shampoo Description
Formulated with Botanicals and Essential Oils, our gentle Shampoos give you healthy, vibrant hair without using harsh preservatives or hair-stripping cleansers.

Conditioner Description
Our Conditioners are infused with Green Tea extract and Wheat Protien which leaves hair shiny and healthly. Pure plant extracts provides moisture while Coconut Oil improves detangling.

Sulphate-free, paraben free and no animal testing, these products come from Lemongrass House, which I purchased some time back. I don't fancy other scents, except for this Lavender. If I remembered correctly, this Lavender range is for those with normal hair, not exactly for mine. I was looking for something that is meant for damaged hair, but that scent kinda put me off, so I got these instead.

Both the shampoo and conditioner has a nice soothing Lavender scent that are packaged in a twist and open metal cap (may raise some facial hairs on the arms with the metal cap screeching sound). With a light yellow colour, the shampoo has a light to medium glooey texture which can be difficult to lather on the hair if its not wet enough. It does not have an effective cleansing power as I found my hair to be itchy and greasy at the end of a long day. It works fine, if I am not out of the house the whole day.
The conditioner with a white thicker texture is not emollient enough for my dry hair. It feels like straw when I tried to apply on my damaged hair ends.
I can't really blame it on the products since its not meant for my type of hair condition anyway. But I am just disappointed with the conditioner texture. Not something I really like, even though its not for my hair type.

Shampoo Ingredients


Conditioner Ingredients

Unforgettable Moments Garnet


This is the last colour, Garnet from the trio set I bought from Payless in Minneapolis. I have previously tried out Amethyst and Sapphire .
I thought it was rather suitable for the Christmas season. Dark red with tiny specks of shimmers. It was a breeze to apply due to its fluidity.
1.5 to 2 coats were what I needed for the opacity. With a base coat, it requires some time for it to dry up totally, but still decent than waiting for Sally Hansens to dry. However, it starts to wear off after 3 days. More coats probably may do a better job.
 
Here's how it looked like, near the window.
 

Review : Organic Indulgence White Nectar and Orange Blossom Bubble Bath

Product Description
Escape to serenity with our luxurious Bath Bubbles. Skin softening and indulgent bubbles transform your bath into a skin softening sanctuary with Organic Acai and Maqui berries.
100% Natural, 75% Certified Organic and with Organic Acai Fruit and Maqui Berry

No SLS or parabens / No phthaletes
No Artificial Fragrances / No animal testing

This was a complimentary gift from iHerb which costs US$6.15. Its a brand which I am unfamiliar with but glad that I got a chance to try it out. I am not fussy when it comes to shower gel and natural shower gels usually work well on me.

The scent which I presume is a combination of white nectar and orange blossom smells like orange and is uplifting with a burst of freshness. It is quite fluid and flows out easily from the big gap opening. Because of its fluidity and the big gap, I tend to pour more than required as it seems to just slide off the body. The texture is quite light and produces suds-like bubbles.

It didn't moisturise as well as other shower gels I have used before, as sometimes, I felt that my skin gets abit drying after a bath. Anyway, there are just too many shower gels out there, which I think may be more suitable for my skin, than this product.

Ingredient-wise, its looks really nourishing for the body. No harmful nasties in it.

Ingredients
Organic aloe barbadensis leaf extract, organic euterpe oleracea (acai) fruit extract, organic lycium barbarum (goji berry) fruit extract, organic yang mei (yumberry) fruit extract, wildcrafted (maqui) fruit extract, coco glucoside, glycerin, algae extract, aroma (organic and wild crafted essential oils), caprylic acid, organic butyrospermum parkii (shea butter) fruit, xanthan gum, cyamopsis tetragonoloba (guar) gum, citric acid, potassium sorbate.

Source : iHerb

Review : Tresemme Salon Silk Conditioner



Product Description
Advanced smoothing system intensely moisturising formula calms frizz and leaves your hair touchably soft and silky.

Benefits
- Deeply hydrates your hair, targeting the driest areas where your hair needs the most moisturisation, for a silky-smooth feel
- Tames unruly frizz and flyaways – thanks to its nourishing formula with vitamin H and silk proteins
- Leaves your hair looking salon-smooth
- Lightweight formula is ideal for daily use

I purchased this in JB, Malaysia last year, when it was still not available in Singapore. I have heard good things about it, and with the value-for-money pricing, the deal is just too irresistable. My 3 girlfriends and I picked up 2 to 4 bottles from the range, with me being the exceptional one, to get 2 conditioners, instead of shampoo + conditioner as I was going thru a conditioner craze that time.

Tresemme is famed for producing salon quality products with an affordable price tag.
Being 500ml size, its a value for money buy, I think I got it for less than $10. With a flip lid opening, the heavy duty bottle can get abit cumbersome when I need to get the contents out, especially since the gap on the cap opening is so tiny. I have, at times, dropped the bottle due to my slippery hands.

The white creamy conditioner is easy to spread and provides an emollient texture to the hair, without weighing the hair down. However, it failed to tame the frizziness and it did not provide more shine as claimed. The hair does feel soft but not silky smooth. And it seems to produce more dandruff when I used this conditioner. I have paired up with 2 different shampoos of other brands and the dandruff problem still exists. I can't say its the conditioner's fault at this point in time, as it probably meant to work in synergy with its shampoo. But for now, this conditioner is just not good enough for me.

That said, please note that it could probably produces better results when used together with the shampoo in the same range. I am just using the conditioner alone, paired with other shampoos that I owned.

Since my conditioners usually used up faster than the shampoos, this conditioner has been a good back-up for other conditioners as its big and "never-ending".
Note that, the conditioner does leave the bathroom tiles slippery, so be careful after your bath.

You can get it from our local Watsons or Guardian, $14.90 for 900ml, in a pump bottle version.



Source : Tresemme

Review : Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Milk


This is the last product from the Hada Labo trial pack and I am glad that I was given a chance to try it, before investing in the full retail size. It has taken me a while to post both reviews on the lotion and this hydrating milk because I had zits from both products and I needed to take a breather, before re-using it, just to confirm the findings.

The hydrating milk is something that I needed some adjusting to, because other than using a cleansing milk as a make-up remover, I don't really use it in other forms of skincare. Cleansing milk tends to leave a film on the skin which I rather do without.
My first contact with a cleansing milk during my teenage years was from the brand named "Freeman". I had gone through several tubes of cleansing milk before I finally switched to other types.



This Hada Labo hydrating milk is just what the name implies, white with a milky consistency. It has virtually no scent. However, it leave a sticky feeling on the skin. When I paired both the hydrating lotion and hydrating milk, it hydrates the skin much better than each product alone. The moisture retention ability is remarkable, minus the sticky tacky feel. In its place, you feel smoother, hydrated and bouncy skin.

As what I have experienced with the hydrating lotion, I also encountered breakouts from this hydrating milk.
I have since reduce the usage to once a week, anything more, I will be creating havoc on the skin. On bad days, I get zits even with just 1 time usage.



Update (20th Feb 11) :
I have been using both this hydrating milk and the toner for more than 2 weeks without any problems. No zits. So by being persistent at times, it does reward a person too.

Source : Hada Labo

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Review : Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Lotion


Despite raves about their star product, The Super Hyaluronic Acid (SHA) Hydrating Lotion with one flying off the shelves every 9seconds, I found it tough to like this product.

I have breakouts on the T-zone, each time I used it. Its totally frustrating. I have since reduced it from daily morning usage to once a week, morning usage.
Hada Labo products subscribe to the Japanese philosophy of beauty - simple, minimal and fuss-free, hence there are no unncessary additives such as alcohol, colorant, fragrances and mineral oil in their products.
Their star product, the SHA Hydrating Lotion, contains Super Hyaluronic Acid which is an excellent ingredient to provide hydration to the skin, due to being able to penetrate the skin, locking in the moisture and forms a barrier to prevent the loss of it. ( SHA has twice the moisture retention capacity of Hyaluronic Acid as 1 gram of hyaluronic acid can retain up to 6 litres of water )




The SHA Lotion mimics skin's natural moisturising ability to enhance water retention, and preserves skin's optimum moisture balance. The end result is a skin surface that stays hydrated for longer, softer and more supple.

A friend had helped me to get the $15.90 travel-sized package when she knew that I have been looking high and low in various Watsons outlets.
I had posted my reviews on the make-up remover which I did not like, due to its smell and the facial cleanser which was not suitable for my skin type.

The hydrating lotion is a clear liquid with a slight sticky and thicker than water texture. It didn't sit well with me initially because I didn't like the sticky sensation on the skin after application.
Despite that, my skin feels bouncy, softer and hydrated after the patting motion. I appreciate the efficacy of the lotion when my skin was flaky and dehydrated. Just remember to do light patting on the skin while its damp ( rub it gently on both palms before patting motion )

I experienced zits since the first day. Occasionally, I get lucky with no breakouts, but more often than not,
I do get a zit the following day.
I have read somewhere that its recommended to continue patting until the lotion gets all absorbed into the skin but due to time constraint ( I used it in the morning, before work), I never follow thru this step.
For those who are interested in this lotion, you probably can try this method and see if it removes the tacky sticky feel and makes a difference to your skin.

Note that even though it does hydrate the skin, but using the lotion alone is just not sufficient because it is afterall, just a lotion and not a moisturiser. Personally, I have tried using it alone just so, to check the hydrating retention ability (if any) but the effects did not last till the next morning which is understandable.

It retails for $22.90 for the full original size. It scored an impressive 4.5 from 41 Makeupalley users. 90% of them would buy again.


Update (20th Feb 11) :

I have been using both this hydrating lotion and the hydrating milk for more than 2 weeks without any problems. No zits. So by being persistent at times, it does reward a person too. :)


Source : Hada Labo


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Review : Christian Dior Hydra Life Youth Essential Hydrating Eye

Product Description
The freshness of a gel and softness of a cream in an instantly penetrating care, specially formulated to respect the fragile eye con tour area. The Eye Creme reduces puffiness and visibly lightens dark circles to ensure rested and radiant eyes. Dior’s recommendation: use it daily in the morning and/or evening on the eye contour. Apply with gentle pressure to optimize the anti-fatigue action. Suitable for all skin types.

Benefits
Combines freshness of a gel and softness of a cream
Instantly penetrates into the heart of epidermis
Visibly eliminates puffiness and lightens dark circles
Restores youthful radiance and vitality to eye area
Leaves eye zone velvety smooth and luminous

Christian Dior Hydra Life series is designed for women in their mid twenties to early thirties prone to dehydrated skin. Formulated with three concentrated plant extracts - Jisten, Centella and Black Rose, these ingredients infuses the skin with intense hydration by enhancing water movement in the skin's surface and delaying the first signs of aging by stimulating collagen production. Skin is left feeling instantly refreshed, supple, and smooth.

- Jisten : Helps to promote aquaporins, real hydric channels to optimize diffusion and maintain water in each cellular level.
- Energized water joins forces with the anti-free radical power of Black Rose to help slow down the oxidative processes. It also helps to boost the densifying activity of Centella.



I purchased this eye cream from Hong Kong drugstores ( either Sasa or Bonjour ). It was the only hydrating eye product in miniature form that I could find, so naturally, I picked it up.
At 2ml, it was still able to last me for about 3 weeks, with daily night use. While I don't fancy cream form around the eyes, I thought I would try something heavy duty around the eyes, at least hoping to see an improvement to my dry undereye skin. This is my first eye treatment product from Dior.

With the risk of incurring millia seeds, I tried to be careful in applying it sparingly and observing the condition of the undereye area during the 3 weeks of usage. However, due to my carelessness and forgetfulness, I have, at times, apply more than its necessary, thinking it was an eye gel. I haven't been using cream-based eye products for a long time, ever since I am aware of millia seeds.
And guess what, I have a millia seed at the corner of my left eye. I am so upset, as I am writing this post.

The white cream smells artificial, which really puts me off. It reminded me of electronic components I used in my work. The soft texture is of light to medium consistency and gets absorbed into the skin well. It does not feel as rich as an eye cream, falling between a gel to cream texture. I did not feel that its hydrating enough but then again, I believe eye treatment products usually needs time to show its effectivness. I did not feel or see any of the benefits as claimed. An overrated product, in my opinion.



Source : Strawberrynet , Dior , Izzy


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Hair Perm at NK Hairworks

Salon : NK Hairworks @ Nex
Location : B2-56, Nex
Tel : 6634 4866
Stylist : Jim Koh

I thought I would just try a new salon this time round and chose NK Hairworks at Nex, since its near my residence and its always crowded at the Anchorpoint outlet. I suppose it should be good, since its that popular. At the Anchorpoint outlet, there are usually several expatriates customers which I put it down to being near their place.

In this outlet, I have only seen 1 expatriate during the 4.5hours I was there. I would put this salon alongside my "to avoid" list together with The Scene at Raffles City ( pushy tactics) and Jayun at Pacific Plaza ( exorbitant prices ). Note that Jayun have since changed its name to Purity Salon.
If you want honest people, good service and reasonable rates, try Actpoint, Hair Inn, Kimage and Supercuts. Supercuts is priced slightly higher, please note.

Please do your homework before you stepped into this salon. Their staff are totally clueless about promotions. I have to say that their package deal is quite worth it, at $600 without any expiry date, you get to choose among a slew of chemical services. For exact details, please check with their staff.
Finally I understand why its crowded, because the customers are tied to the salon due to their packages.

The customer service on the phone was short and curt, when I tried to make an appointment as well as asking if there were any on-going promotions. I blamed it on language barrier for his short answers.

He quoted $208 for hair perm with length till bra-length, in fact, he says its regardless of hair length. The perm consists of haircut and treatment as well.
Subsequently, I went ahead to check online and came up with the promotions stated here and their own website ( with a poor spelling of Christmas ).

I felt cheated after 10 minutes in the salon. Dishonest people. Its totally different from what I was quoted on the phone and what I read from the website.
The moment I sat down, 2 persons asked me what I wanted. Gee, I thought I have already made an appointment for hair perm? The stylist who served me, is in fact the guy who pickd up my call. Jim. A humourous guy, with his so-called magic hands, or so he claimed. He served me biscuits and drinks promptly, with 2 magazines as well.

He started to check my hair and almost wanted to proceed with the cut, but I stopped him and told him I wanted to know the prices. He quoted $248 with haircut and perm. When I asked about the treatment, he says, he can give me a free pre-treatment vial which is usually $20+. Hello, I thought the treatment was stated on the website as free?

Again, I asked him if there were any credit card promotions and he insisted NO. So I told him, I saw the Maybank promotion on their website. He went to check with another guy, whom I presumed to be the manager. The manager, who initially claimed that there's no promotions that he's aware of, decided to check the website, and later claimed that, "oh yes, I remembered, that there is this Maybank promotion".

That aside, I told him about the promotion which starts from $128 for a perm. He looked puzzled and passed the notebook to me, and asked me to check and show him the site where I found the deal. Thereafter I showed it to Jim because the manager was busy, Jim told me that was a very old promotion, when they just set up the salon at Nex. Great, the promotion is forever on the webpage?

Actually, I hardly argued about prices in salons, because I respect their professionalism and I mainly had my hair done in town without any major issues. However when I saw that they kept insisting that there were no promotions, I got abit disappointed with their dishonesty. 

On a positive note, I am happy that Jim is the one who did 85% of the work, from shampoo-ing, right down to blowing the hair. Its not something I can get in most salons and he did not let me wait for too long, inbetween his customers. He is humourous, approachable and is full of confidence of his ability. He made it sound like a joke, which diffuses the impression of being boastful.

And because he is not a shampoo guy, the hair massage during shampoo-ing is pretty mediocre.
However, I do think that as a stylist, his hair was abit unkempt. He did confess that he came into the salon without doing anything to his hair, because its not his usual shift. I came in at 11am, because I like to start and end early, instead of spending the whole afternoon in the salon.

The curls turned out to be better than expected. I always looked like a poodle during the first week of perm but this time round, the curls were larger and looser. I hoped it can last for a year, as what my past few perms did. He wanted me colour the hair to make it look better, since black hair with perm usually produces a dated look, but I refused because I want to reduce the damage on the hair. This time round, the ammonium from the Loreal products was abit choking, which is surprising because I have been doing hair perms for years and I never had any issue with it. Could it be because I have been using more natural products this year and my senses has become less tolerant of chemical induced scents?

Total damage : $248 less 10% + GST = $238.80

During my payment at the cashier, Jim and his colleague are still trying to push the package deal to me, but in a friendly way. He also forget to input the 10% discount to me and after my gentle reminder, he asked a colleague for help in trying to void the receipt.
The colleague told him that there is no promotional price but stopped after Jim told him that he had checked with the manager. How clueless are all these staff? Jeez.


Recommended Reading :
5 Food For Shiny Hair and Beautiful Nails


December Haul - Korea + Iherb

Had an awesome breakfast with my girlfriends at Cova, Paragon. Picked up some items from them too.


Vichy Thermal Spa Water 50ml $6.30
Vichy Cleansing Solution 200ml $19.10
Skin Food Shea Butter Foot Mask 2200won (~$2.60)
Laneige Multi Berry Yoghurt Repair Mask 25000won (~$29.60)
Tony Moly Lovely Bergamot Foot Mask 2500won each
Tony Moly Lovely Peach Hand Mask 2500won each
Tony Moly Natural Pulp Essence Sheet Mask Hyaluronic Acid 1000won each
Tony Moly Natural Pulp Essence Sheet Mask Collagen 1000won each
Shiseido Starter Kit - Xmas gift from a friend


My Iherb haul. Quote OKI787 to get US$5 off your first purchase.

 Jason Natural, Color Protect Henna Shampoo US$6.72
 Jason Natural, Henna High-Lights Conditioner US$7.16
 Jason Natural, Powersmile, All-Natural Whitening CoQ10 Tooth Gel, Peppermint  US$5.39
 Maxim Hygiene Products, Maxim Organic, 80 Cotton Rounds  US$2  ( not in picture)
Reviva Labs, HypoAllergenic Mascara, Brown  $5.76
Madre Labs, Balancing, Shampoo, Conditioner, Pomegranate & Mellow Mint  ( free gift )

Review : FaceQ Grapeseed + Green Tea Mask


Product Description
Face Q Grape Seed + Green Tea Mask with a unique micro-emulsion technology turns nourishment into micro-emulsion particles that are smaller and easier to penetrate into the skin, improving moisture replenishment. Mask is made from 100% wood pulp with silk, it fit your facial contour perfectly, rapidly infiltrate moisture for the skin, after use your skin with become supple with natural radiance.

Formulated with all natural botanical extracts, grape seeds contain powerful proanthocyanidins antioxidant, can prevent the skin from oxidation damage, thus lose luster and flexibility. Grape seed also has synergistic effect with collagen and elastin, making skin a shiny and flexible, and prevent premature wrinkles and skin spots.

Key Ingredients
Hyaluronic Acid: provides ample moisture replenishment;
Grape Seed extract, Vitamin C and Bio-White: give purifying and whitening effect;
Green Tea Extract and Japanese wasabi extract: minimize pores, and brighten and smoothen skin.

Being the last of my FaceQ mask flavour, I have since decided that My Beauty Diary masks are better for my skin. The effects are better and lasting, as compared with FaceQ. My skin is no longer younger than 25 years of age, as what FaceQ masks are formulated for.

This mask, similar to its FaceQ range has a thin material sheets which fit nicely on the face contours except for the lips area which is cut too close to the lips, making it uncomfortable. The scent smells like grapes, abit too sweet for my liking.
While I do appreciate the fact that it contains antioxidant goodness in it, the refreshing and slight tightening effects are just fleeting moments because my skin is back to its dull state the following morning.


Source : Sunnanz , Sasa

Review : FaceQ Ocean + Aloe Mask



Product Description
Face Q Ocean + Aloe Mask marine collagen mask full of water allows you have instant access to the moisture to achieve a supple and smooth skin. Enriched with aloe vera gel, its carefully woven fiber essence bears more moisture and nourishment to skin, immediate improves the texture of your skin, and creates skin clarity and translucency!
After skin surface forms protective layer of moisture, retaining moisture for a long-lasting and supple skin, your complexion will be translucent and shine with a healthy glow.

Another sheet mask which I used over the weekend, this aloe flavour smells abit perfumery, which I did not quite like. Containing Collagen, Sea Weed Extract and Ceramide which prevent dryness and sensitive skin problems., its been touted to help lock in the natural moisture of the skin to prevent fine lines and rough skin texture, while moisturizing your skin for dewy result.
As with the previous FaceQ masks I have tried before, the mask is heavily soaked in essence, the texture and the thin material of the mask fits well except for the cut-out area at the lips. After the 20minute treatment, skin feels soft, supple and rested. It does feel more hydrated, but the effect does not last till the next morning.

In terms of ingredients, Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramide are found at the bottom of the list which meant that the percentage of ingredients are the least. It does contain a high percentage of Witch Hazel, which is a good astringent to tighten pores, seal in moisture and refresh skin.


Source : Sasa , Beautykat

2011 Best of Natural Beauty Awards Winners

Cleansers
Weleda Gentle Cleansing Milk

This creamy cleanser gives you a deep clean while leaving your skin soft, thanks to Biodynamic iris root (a rejuvenating and moisturize-retaining herb), jojoba oil, and witch hazel. Great for all skin types.

Organique by Himalaya Neem and Turmeric Face Wash

Especially great for acne and oily skin, this soap-free face wash leaves skin feeling clean and toned. Organic neem and turmeric, a classic herbal combination in India, help soften and clarify the complexion naturally.

Moisturisers
Derma E Vitamin A and Green Tea Advanced Wrinkle Treatment Créme

This luxuriant, thick créme quenches dry skin without feeling greasy. Vitamin A and antioxidant-rich green tea help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and also enhance the skin’s cell renewal.

Home Health Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Cream with Restorative Hydration Complex

Capture the ultra-hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid with this soothing cream that also features green tea extract, grape seed oil, vitamins, and skin-rejuvenating herbs.

Toners and Scrubs
Pangea Organics French Rosemary & Sweet Orange Facial Toner

We love the scent of this hydrating toner, ideal for dry or mature skin. Use in between cleansing and moisturizing for best results.

Emerita Microdermabrasion Facial Scrub

If you haven’t tried Emerita, you (and your skin) are in for a treat. This skin-renewing scrub is made with botanicals, antioxidants, and fragments of shells and minerals.

Serums
Reviva Labs Collagen Serum

This silky serum boasts a hefty amount of soluble collagen that penetrates almost instantly for a soft, smooth complexion. Continued use helps ease fine lines, diminish wrinkles, and improve skin texture.

MyChelle Dermaceuticals Apple Brightening Serum

Featuring niacinamide, peptides, and PhytoCellTec Apple Stem Cells—a breakthrough technology that triggers skin’s regeneration process—this unique serum helps reduce age spots, even skin tone, and repair UV damage

Mask
Juice Beauty Organic Facial Rejuvenating Mask

Get your glow on with this concoction of natural ingredients including organic lemon and grape juices, olive oil, raw cane sugar, honey, geranium, and carrot seed. Revives dull skin instantly.

Annemarie Borlind Anti-Stress Mask

Fatigue and stress can show on your skin. Revive tired, stressed-out skin with this rejuvenating mask featuring hyaluronic acid and carrot protein. Great for all skin types.

Eye Care
Sibu Beauty Sea Buckthorn Age Defying Eye Cream

This secret behind this hydrating eye cream is sea buckthorn, a berry naturally rich in omega fats and antioxidants. The cream, which also has pumpkin, helps firm skin around the eyes and lessen fine lines.
 
Beauty Without Cruelty Green Tea Nourishing Eye Gel

This light gel feels great going on and revives tired, puffy eyes with the help of green tea, grapeseed, and ginkgo. Designed to help reduce fine lines and protect against signs of aging and perfect for all ages.

Shampoo and Conditioner
Hugo Naturals Vanilla and Sweet Orange Volumizing Shampoo & Conditioner

Some volumizing products can make your hair dry, but not these. With the dreamy scents of vanilla and sweet orange, this shampoo and conditioner boost volume while leaving hair soft.
 
Nature’s Gate Pomegranate Sunflower Hair Defense Shampoo & Conditioner

Antioxidant power from pomegranate, sunflower, and red tea leaf help keep colored hair vibrant, shiny, moisturized, and fade-resistant. Other nourishing ingredients include panthenol, soy protein, borage flower seed oil, and vitamins C and E.

Hair Care
John Masters Organics Bourbon Vanilla & Tangerine Hair Texturizer

Made with organic ingredients including castor oil, tangerine oil, glycerin, vitamins C and E, and shea butter, this lovely scented texturizer defines and boosts hair’s shine
 
Earth Science Olive & Avocado Conditioning Hair Masque

Feed thirsty, damaged hair with this intensive conditioner. Packed with nourishing ingredients including olive, avocado, soy protein, jojoba oil, and nettle.

Bath
Aura Cacia Heart Song Natural Aromatherapy Bubble Bath

We love the romantic rose scent of this bubble bath, made with 100% essential oils including lavender, rosewood, and geranium.

EO Balance Bath Salts Rose Geranium & Citrus Bath Salts

Soak in the harmonizing effects of rose geranium and revitalizing citrus essential oils—the perfect antidote to stress. Made with mineral-rich Himalayan salt crystals and California sea salts.

Shower Gel
Sonoma Soap Company First Crush Bath & Shower Gel

Escape to the vineyards of Sonoma in your shower with the intoxicating scent of this moisturizing body wash. Features organic grape seed, red raspberry, and green apple extracts. Leaves skin feeling soft and nourished.

Earthly Elements Hydrating Body Wash in Moroccan Vanilla

Pre- and probiotics, along with hydrating extracts and omega-3 fats, give this revitalizing body wash an edge. The exotic vanilla scent and rich lather leave you feeling pampered. A keepsake charm adorns each bottle.

Bodycare
Jason Apricot Pure & Natural Hand & Body Lotion

Protect and soften your skin the natural way with this soothing hand and body lotion. The delicate scents of apricot and almond do not compete with other scents or perfumes you may be wearing.

Desert Essence Organics Bulgarian Lavender Hand & Body Lotion

Deeply moisturizing, this rich, nongreasy lotion is perfect for everyday use. The lavender scent is uplifting during the day and relaxing at night. Perfect for extra-dry skin.

Toothpaste
Burt’s Bees Multicare Toothpaste (with Fluoride)

We love the fresh taste and deep-clean feel of this toothpaste. It also boasts the addition of cranberry, which has been shown to help prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth so they can’t cause gingivitis.

Tom’s of Maine Fluoride-Free Sensitive Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth

The mineral potassium nitrate is added to help protect sensitive teeth from pain from a variety of causes, including hot or cold. Continued use helps strengthen teeth and provides even more protection against sensitivity.

Source : Better Nutrition

Review : Face Q Eye Mask with Ear Lobes

Product Description
Eye mask that helps to hydrate and moisturise tender skin around eye zone. Reduces fine lines and has lifting effect with attached ear lobes.
FaceQ Elasticity-boost Eye Mask is a multi-functional mask which offers the users the greatest moisturizing power. You may feel the enhanced elasticity and moist content of the skin of the eye area on which the wrinkles will be faded and the skin will be tightened after a long application.

The multi-functional eye mask would never neglect the skin area between the eyes and nose. It leaves your skin a radiant, shining and refreshed condition. You can boast a pair of appealing eyes afterwards.



Once in a while, products that are ingenious get a nod of approval from me. This FaceQ eye mask falls into this category. I like everything about it, from the kawaii packaging, to the thoughtfulness of the inventor of having something that covers all around the eyes. The whole experience of using it has been pampering.

It comes in 5 individual sheets in a box which I got in Taiwan. Face Q is just such a cute brand, don't you find the girl who winks, so adorable? It reminds me vaguely of the female lead in Sungkyunkwan Scandal, a Korean drama that I have been watching recently.

The material is thin and cotton-like and feels soft and comfortable. Exactly like what the packaging shows, its a patch with beautiful feminine cutting around it that covers the sides of the eyes (where crow feets usually gather ), the eyelids ( where puffiness usually occurs ) and inbetween the eyes.
The inventor thought of everything around the eyes. And it comes with ear hooks! So hook it up, and you can lie on the bed comfortably like doing an eye mask spa. Even with the ear hooks on, it does not feel awkward, tight or uncomfortable, mainly due to the soft material, unlike the Lovemore masks, where you feel that you are stretching the mask to its peak.
However, this FaceQ eye mask has a floral perfume scent which I rather do without.

The eye area feels rested and comfortable after each session but it did nothing much to my undereye circles or eyebags.


Source : koreabb , Sasa

Review : FaceQ Red Pomegranate + Co Q10 Mask


Product Description
Face Q Red Pomergranate + Co Q10 Mask Mask is made from 100% wood pulp with silk, it fits your facial contour twice as best as normal paper mask and rapidly infiltrate nourishment for your skin.
Red pomegranate and Anthocyanin are two powerful anti-oxidant ingredients. It fights against dullness and dehydration. Camomile extracts is also added to avoid further dark pigment formulation, helping skin to restore its natural glow.
After application your skin will become supple, smooth. Its mild and gentle nature makes it suitable even after sun bathing, it will soothe and calm the redness due to long sun exposure.

Another sheet from the same box, which I used recently. This Pomegranate and Q10 combination boasts of antioxidant benefits which is just perfect for me at my age.
I personally like this better as compared with Luffa + Adlay sheet mask as it provides better moisture and adds a subtle glow to my skin. My skin feels softer after application.

The texture of the sheet mask is thin but comfortable and adheres to the skin well, except that I wish that the cut-out for the lips can be slightly bigger. It has a fruity scent which does not linger long.



Source : Sasa , Beautykat

5 super foods for great skin


5 SUPER FOODS FOR GREAT SKIN



Cherries and berries
Cherries and berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries, are among the highest antioxidant-containing fruits. Antioxidants help to prevent premature skin ageing by reducing the damaging effects of free radicals. Free radicals are toxins produced by the body or found in the environment. Excessive amounts of free radicals result in cell damage and over time hasten the skin ageing process.

Oily fish
Oily fishes such as tuna, salmon and sardines are rich in essential fatty acids. These essential fatty acids help to repair cell membranes, thereby supporting skin's elasticity. The presence of essential fatty acids also aids in the production of collagen. As the key component of connective tissue, collagen promotes healthy and resilient skin.
Should you go straight for collagen-rich foods? This is controversial, says Ang. To date, no strong evidence has shown that collagen-rich food such as gelatin, shark fins or chicken feet have additional benefits in promoting beautiful skin compared to protein-rich foods such as meat. That's because collagen is broken down to amino acids in the body, just like protein.

Avocado
Avocado is a fruit rich in vitamin C and vitamin E. Both these vitamins are known for their antioxidant properties. In particular, vitamin C helps to reduce skin inflammation and to optimise the production of collagen. This in turn improves skin tone and reduces wrinkles.
Don't be put off by the avocado's high fat content. It mostly consists of mono-unsaturated fatty acids, which help in reducing "bad" cholesterol.
Apart from direct food consumption, you can consider using skin products containing avocado oil extract, which has also been shown to promote skin hydration, elasticity and smoothness.

Tomato
Lycopene, another powerful antioxidant, gives tomatoes their bright red colour. Studies have found that lycopene can protect the skin against the sun's harmful UV rays, a major cause of wrinkles. Unlike most fruits that are best eaten raw to minimise nutrient loss, tomatoes acquire their maximum antioxidant effect when exposed to heat during cooking.
Tomatoes are also high in beta-carotene. In the body, beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A, which plays a key role in skin regulation.

Green tea
Fluid is important in keeping cells well hydrated. Good hydration helps nutrients and vitamins to penetrate cells and, conversely, toxins to be flushed out of the body. The usual recommendation is to drink at least 8 cups of fluid per day. The fluid should ideally be low in calories, with no added sugar, to avoid unnecessary weight gain.

Apart from water, an excellent option is green tea. Recently, studies have shown that green tea can promote good skin, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Some of these antioxidants, called polyphenols, have well-documented benefits with regards to sun protection.

Source : Yahoo

Review : Love + Toast Paper Flower Hand Cream

Product Description
A playful new skincare range by Margot Elena. Lovely colourful packaging with gorgeous embossed illustrations.
Created to quench thirsty skin, moisture rich natural ingredients absorb quickly forming invisible protection. Natural super softeners Shea Butter, Macadamia Nut and Olive Fruits, Avocado and Sunflower Oils. A lightweight luxurious lotion with no animal ingredients or artificial colours.

Key Ingredients
Shea butter, Macadamia nut, Olive fruits, Avocado & Sunflower oil, love and toast's "can't live without it" botanical perfume blend

This is the last flavour of the 5 different flavours which I bought some time back and is my favourite of all.
Love and Toast products are Paraben free, Phthalate free, Never animal tested, No animal ingredients and No artificial colors.

Containing notes of water lily, dewberry rose and ylang ylang, it smells the nicest among all as its not too sweet. I enjoyed slathering this light textured smooth beige cream onto my hands though it did not quite hydrate my dry hands well. In fact, all Love and Toast hand creams just do not cut the mark with my hands. Its too mild and not moisturising enough.

Ingredients
Extracts of Pomegranate and Green Tea in Purified Water, cyclopentasiloxane, stearic acid, isopropyl myristate, cetyl alcohol, glyceryl stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), persea gratissima (avocado) Oil, tocopheryl acetate (Vitamin E), glycerin, cetearyl alcohol, ceteareth-20, carbomer, tetrasodium EDTA, tocopheryl acetate, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, ethylhexylglycerin, hexylene glycol, triethanolamine, love and toast botanical perfume blend.

Source : LoveandToast , Pod , Amazon

Recent Mini Haul


Stock-up some of my old favourites and bought 2 new shower gels.

The Body Shop Organic Cotton Pads 2 for $6.90
Organic Basic Pure Castile Liquid Soap $9.80 each ( original $10.90 )
Dermalogica Super Sensitive Faceblock US$37.95
Dermalogica Multivitamin Mask US$36.95


My very first order of John Master Organics products. Took the chance to haul it when ASOS was having a promotion on them. It took about 12 days to reach me.

John Masters Organics Sea Mist Sea Salt Spray $13pounds
John Masters Organics Travel Set $8 pounds

Review : FaceQ Luffa + Adlay Mask



Product Description
Face Q Luffa +Adlay Mask is a mask with both calming and whitening effect. Enriched with natural luffa extract, the active enzyme can remove dirt and impurities in your skin, enhance skin metabolism. Barley extract can also soften skin, leaving your skin smooth and supple after use. Hydrating, soothing and anti-aging

After a run at the Standard Chartered Marathon, my usual routine is to layer a mask after I get home, for a pampering session since its scorching hot under the humid weather. Without my nerdy spectacles, I had mistaken the Adlay as Aloe and promptly pop one on my face.



I am not familiar with this range though I have vaguely heard about it. I was gifted with this a 4piece mask of different flavours as a complimentary gift with My Beauty Diary masks purchases in Taiwan.
Face Q mask from My Beauty Diary targets 25 years old or below for maintaining the healthiness and youthful appearance of the skin. Combines different natural ingredients, it energizes your skin for natural glowing result. Made of 100% wood pulp material to allow more water and essence retention. FaceQ masks use a unique hydrogel micro-emulsion technology with natural herbal formulas in them.

Main ingredients :
Luffa Extract : an antioxidant to fights free radicals, calms sensitive skin which is prone to premature aging Barley Extract : strengthens skin, reduces wrinkles and helping with hyperpigmentation
Pineapple enzyme : minimize the appearances of pores.

The packaging, though comes with 2 cut lines to be teared open, is actually quite resistant to be tore by hands, I have to use extra strength or scissors to cut open the packaging. The thin material adheres to the skin easily and since this range is associated with My Beauty Diary, there is nothing too bad about it.
The cut-out area for the lips is slightly small, though. Packaging pictures are quite kawaii to target a younger audience.

It purports to provide hydrating, whitening, soothing and anti-aging benefits to the skin. While it soothes and refreshes the skin with a comfortable and calming feeling, it failed to hydrate my skin fully or provide any brightening effect. It did hydrate my skin moderately well but just not impressive enough for me to grab the full 10sheet box but then again, I am no longer 25 and below.

Source : Sasa , BeautyKat

Review : Hugo Naturals Balancing Shampoo and Conditioner


Shampoo Description
Pure blend with botanical extracts and tea tree oil cleanses, helps reduce flakiness and promotes a healthy, balanced scalp - while quinoa protein adds body and shine.

Conditioner Description
Pure blend with botanical extracts moisturizes and detangles hair - while tea tree oil soothes, helps reduce flakiness and promotes a healthy, balanced scalp.



This was a travel set which I bought from iHerb. If you are interested to purchase iHerb products, quote OKI787 to get $5 off your first purchase or start shopping from here.
I would be just reviewing the shampoo and conditioner which I have brought along to my last Hong Kong trip.

While the scent is a soothing blend of tea tree and lavender, the little foam produced for shampoo lathering is pathetic. The texture is also thin and runny. It left the hair slightly dry and straw-like during the shampoo-ing process and is difficult to wash. I used up much more than what I would normally use, due to the lack of lathering foam. In fact, my shampoo was used up at a much faster rate than the conditioner.
The conditioner of the same scent is moderately moisturising and the texture is thicker and non silicon-like. Surprisingly, both products left my hair tangle-free. I did not feel that the products made my hair particularly shiny but my dandruff seems to be under better control.

The shampoo and conditioner scored 1 on Skin Deep which refers to a low hazard as far as ingredients are concerned.

Shampoo Ingredients
AQUA/WATER, LAURYL GLUCOSIDE, SODIUM COCOAMPHOACETATE, GLYCERIN, SODIUM COCOYL GLUTAMATE, SODIUM LAURYL GLUCOSE CARBOXYLATE, MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA (TEA TREE) LEAF OIL, HYDROLYZED QUINOA, COPAIFERA OFFICINALIS (BALSAM COPAIBA) RESIN, BERTHOLLETIA EXCELSA SEED OIL, ARNICA MONTANA FLOWER EXTRACT, TOCOPHEROL, LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA (LAVENDER) OIL, CITRIC ACID, LONICERA CAPRIFOLIUM (HONEYSUCKLE) FLOWER EXTRACT,
LONICERA JAPONICA (HONEYSUCKLE) FLOWER EXTRACT, GLUCONOLACTONE, SODIUM BENZOATE

Conditioner Ingredients
AQUA/WATER, BRASSICYL ISOLEUCINATE ESYLATE, BRASSICA ALCOHOL,
CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDES, COCO-CAPRYLATE, GLYCERIN, MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA (TEA TREE) LEAF OIL, ARGININE, ARNICA MONTANA FLOWER EXTRACT,
LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA (LAVENDER) OIL, PANTHENOL, GLUCONOLACTONE,
SODIUM BENZOATE

Source : Hugo Naturals

Review : Skin Blossom Cleanse and Nourish Body Wash

Product Description
This sumptuous wash creates a fine lather to gently cleanse skin without stripping. Suitable for use in the bath or shower, it contains nourishing Vitamin E and hydrating Aloe Vera which combine with plant cleansers to make bathing a skin-loving experience.
Made with 74% organic ingredients and fragranced with soothing, comforting Sweet Orange.
Suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.

I picked up this from one of the stockists and am glad that its been a nice bathing experience using it. I did not quite like the hand cream then but thankfully I still did give this brand a chance and tried the body wash.

The sweet orange scented body wash goes on light and provides foaming suds which is lighter than the normal shower wash foam. It leaves the skin soft and well-moisturised. I have no problem using this when I have a mild case of eczema on the arms unlike the Crabtree and Evelyn shower gel which left my eczema skin even drier than before ( which is understandable since it contains SLS ).

It retails for $15.90 for a 150ml bottle. You can shop online at Kanga Organics.
Check out all about Skin Blossom here

Ingredients :
Aqua (Water), Coco Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Coco Glucoside, Glycerin* , Sucrose Cocoate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis* (Sweet Orange Oil) , Phenoxyethanol/ Benzyl Alcohol/ Potassium Sorbate, Aloe Barbadensis leaf juice powder* (Aloe Vera) , Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) , Zingiber Officinalis* (ginger oil) , Lactic Acid , Limonene
*Certified as Organically Grown

Source : Kanga Organics

Review : Kao Essential Damage Care Nuance Airy Anti Frizz Serum



Product Description
Intensive Leave-on Treatment enriched with High Purity Honey Oil and Cuticle repair essence.
Instantly repair dry and damaged hair. Hair stays smooth and bouncy all day.

Benefits :High Purity Honey Oil provides deep moisture
Ultra Shine Essence gives hair a long-lasting shine
Wild Rose Essence keeps hair soft and moisturised

I had this for a while, before they changed their packaging. It was something I do not need at that time, but since I had a coupon and didn't know what to get from Guardian, I just picked this up. It was retailing for $10.90 for this 60ml size.
I am almost done with it, after more than a month of daily usage.

Contrary to what a serum should be, the lightweight texture of this day essence is like a lotion, very fluid and gets absorbed into the hair easily.  After application, my hands are not greasy and the hair does not look or feel oily. It gives a nice moisturised look to the damaged hair ends.
For the first 2 to 3 weeks, I did not feel that it does anything much to my hair, my wavy ( dying curls ) hair still looks unruly and frizzy, but I start to see a slight improvement in the 4th week onwards. My hair becomes more manageable and looks less unruly.
However, it does not hold or define the curls, which is understandable since this product is not supposed to do that anyway.
For the price, its decent enough for folks who just need a serum for daily maintenance, however do note that it does contain alcohol.

In terms of ingredients, the 6th ingredient : Ethylhyxyl Methoxycinnamate is an active ingredient in OTC sunscreen products. It is used in products that are applied to the skin to absorb, reflect or scatter UV rays; it protects the skin from sunburn and other damaging effects of the sun.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted an OTC drug review of Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate and did approve it for use in OTC sunscreens up to a concentration of 7.5%. However, it has been known to produce excess reactive oxygen species that can interfere with cellular signaling, cause mutations, and lead to cell death. This reaction may also be implicated in cardiovascular disease. (source)
Estrogenic effects are noted in laboratory animals as well as disruption of thyroid hormone and brain signaling. (source)




Source : Kao