Klorane Shampoo with peony

Few months back when I couldn't restock my favourite shampoo (royal wind), i almost went insane. I have extremely sensitive oily scalp and very dry hair ends so finding a shampoo to ease both problems proved to be a huge headache. And it took me many years to find one that works but only to be discontinued just when i needed to stock up! Especially now that I am pregnant and the scalp is more oily and sensitive than before. 

I have tried Japanese brands.... that all claimed to be suitable for itchy scalp and dry hair ends but I felt it was still too rich thus causing my scalp to continue itching. As for organic shampoo, the effect alway seem short lived as I can feel my scalp itchy after few hours. Tried tea tree shampoo as well and it didn't do a single thing for me either. So desperate that i even bought a shampoo meant for - hair fall & breakage control, for flat, oily & normal hair. Duh....it doesnt even make sense cos how can a shampoo served so many kinds of hair condition. I am confused just reading it...i pitied my poor sensitive scalp. Anyway, that's how desperate i was.

I don't know about you but a itchy scalp can virtually ruin my life. It gives me flakes n bumps all over my scalp and it can be extremely stressful especially in our hot humid weather.  I cannot imagine if I have to go through the ordeal during my confinement.

I think I must have tried 5 to 6 bottles of shampoo, NOPE....7 before before finally finding THE ONE and that is Klorane Shampoo with peony.  This shampoo provides relief to itchy and irritated scalp because of the key ingredient - peony. I am quite please to know that it is also silicone, paraben and sodium chloride free. I felt immediate relief on the first use and on 2nd use my flakes were reduced and itch were lessen!

I am half a bottle through now and my scalp are all happy and healthy! This shampoo doesn't really do much benefit to my dried hair ends but it's not making it worst either so I am sticking to it. I already have 2 new bottles in my  inventory.....just praying hard it will be here forever.

5 out of 5. Retailing at S$18.90 from John little, Watsons and Guardian.

Bourjois Cream Blush....a dream to use!

When i first set my eyes on the cream blusher from Bourjois....i couldnt take my eyes off. Is it the signature round blusher pot or the 4 beautiful colors that i just couldnt make myself walk away from....*gulp* Got to have it! 

So i bought cream blush #3 rose tender home even though there was not discount on it (99% of the time i buy makeup when there is some sort of discount). See....the appearance of this blusher is enough to make me do irrational thing or was it the pregnancy?

I was worry about the blendable ability of this cream blush as some cream blusher can be tricky to blend because of its thick texture. But Bourjois cream blush feels a little oily to touch but it quickly turns into powder upon blending onto the cheeks. It is like second skin, just like what they claimed!! 

Cream blush #3 has a tiny bit of shimmer in it but is very suitable for day cos its also natural looking. I used 2 layers on my face (see right bottom pic) I would use cream blush #4 if i want a more make up look.

Cream blusher can sometimes give people the 'chinese opera' feel but this Bourjois blusher is really sheer so we can layer it on without looking streaky. I used 2 layers of #3 and still look natural *wink*. The cream blush also has a enchanting rose scent which is common in their blushers and powders but its not overpowering unless u hold it very near to your nose. 

I think this blusher is very suitable for beginnners like me. I was trying to decide between a cheek tint and a cream blusher and i am glad i bought the latter. Good to know that this cream blusher contains mango butter extracts to leave skin feeling soft and apricot extracts to enhance skin healthy glow.

Because of its compact size and cream texture, i could just throw it in my bag and not worry about the mess it might bring like powder blusher. So this is now a staple in my makeup bag along with the lip balms.

5 out of 5. Retailing at S$20.90 at Sa Sa and some selected John Little and Watsons stores.

Antioxidant For The Skin

My sincere apologies for the hiatus.....pregnancy just made me a very tired (and lazy) mom to be.  Even lazier to try out the new skincare and makeup i had excitedly hidden away from my prying hubby. 

My pregnancy in the 1st trimester really tired me out big time....i would nap the moment my head hit something soft. Even my son asked why i am always so tired but that is no excuse to slacken on my skincare routine especially when the hormones will be wrecking up a havoc. 

One of my worst fear during pregnancy is SPOTS appearing on my face (next is cellulite - why? cos at least i can get dressed n hide it). To minimise spots from appearing, i have been diligently applying Cosmetic Skin Solutions Vitamin C + E Serum to my face every morning. This is a super antioxidant and it has 15% vitamin C, 1% vitamin E, 0.5% ferulic acid and hyaluronic acid. Its a great product that is timing saving at the same time. My routine is to apply this and follow by my SPF28 and i am out of the house.  Extracted from the website " This potent treatment contains a high amount of antioxidants to shield the skins surface, creating a protective defense barrier against environmental pollutants, assaults, and aggressors which can lead to oxidative stress and premature skin aging.  Repairs and improves the appearance of photo damaged skin, blotchy skin types, and those experiencing uneven skin tones.  Treats by lightening age and brown spots, melasma, erythma (redness), hyperpigmentation, as it smoothes and softens fine lines and wrinkles. "

You may like to know that Vitamin E can reduce the visibility of your scars or spots, diminish your wrinkles, moisturize your skin and give your skin a radiant glow. And Ferulic Acid is a plant-based antioxidant that is found in bran, among other plants. Research suggests that it provides antioxidant and sun-protective benefits to skin while enhancing the stability of topical applications of vitamin E.

Some of our sunblocks maybe not be able to block 100% of the UV so with the additional usage of this, damages can be further prevented. Too much sun is never a good thing and same goes for those sitting in the office as the UV will enter through the windows and cause harm too.

4.5 out of 5. So far my skin has been clear and no sight of new spot (touch wood) and spots have been significant lightened also. Price at US$39.85 for 30ml, a bottle can lasts about 4 months based on a daily use. It is way cheaper than a bigger brand retailing at US$153 for the same size. I have used the bigger brand in a sample size and it has the exact main ingredients and it smells the same too. 

You can buy direct from Cosmetics Skin Solution as they ship to Singapore directly for a fee.

For the 20s ladies, this is something that is definitely worth investing in. And for the 30s ladies, its definitely worth a try.

Inglot Duraline

My trusty Maybelline gel eyeliner is something that I reached for when I want a natural lined look but few weeks ago when I took it out, it was all dried out!! I was about to toss it out when I remembered I bought a bottle of Ingot Duraline that will revive my gel eyeliner.

This Duraline was created to turn any powder eyeshadow into liquid formulation but the sales person told me It can also be used to add dampness to the dried up eye gel. Or you can also add it to your favourite mascara to get the last bit out. 

I tried it on my eyeshadow platte and the results were so so cos u really to blend it properly to get it evenly spread put. The colors were less dense than its powder form. And once the eye shawdow platte dries, it made them cakey plus i didn't clean the brush properly so there were some color transfer and it's just quite a mess.

I would definitely use it for my gel liner because a drop can last a few weeks but not on my powder eyeshadows again because it simply made a mess.

4 out of 5 for its multi purpose ability. I bought if from Kuala Lumpur for RM38 or you can buy it online. Did I mention Ingot has wonderful eyeshadows too!!

Maybelline Pure Pact Mineral SPF 30

How much do u know about Mineral makeup and its beneifts??  Honestly, the only thing i knew about it is that it controls oil really well, in terms of the famous Laura Mercier mineral finishing powder which i am using. Mineral makeup has more benefits besides just oil controlling, no wonder the craze still stays strong.

 

The word 'MESSY' will come across your mind when it comes to mineral powder cos its usually in very fine loose powder but when i saw a 2 way compact cake mineral foundation from Maybelline the other day and thought i give it a try.

 

This mineral compact promises -  will not clog pores, hydrates the skin and contains no preservatives, fragrance thus its suitable for sensitive skin.

I like this compact because it comes with SPF30 and has a medium coverage. I didnt even apply concealer on my chin and it tamed down my redness. And i could use it all over my face and didnt feel any discomfort. And seriously couldnt even feel that i had makeup on. With the LM powder, my sides of the face tends to itch when i put it on initially.

 

The oil controlling part was abit disappointing because i started to shine after about 6 hours but it might have been better if i used a face primer before using it. Never skip the moisturiser thinking you dont want your face to shine as its oil controlling ability might dry out your skin, especially for people with dry skin.

 

Mineral makeup is good for our skin because the ingredients used are au naturel and is meant for ALL skin types. Mineral makeup can soothe irritated skin and prevent future breakouts too!!

 

You can read up more on mineral makeup on this website Mineral Cosmetics Make Up which i find it to be very useful.

 

4 out of 5 for this Maybelline mineral 2 way powder. The coverage and SPF is worth every cents and also no more messy powder flying all over the place, highly recommended to bring along for the next holiday. RRP SGD19.90.

 

PS:   I didnt buy the compact container cos i dont have the habit of touching up my makeup when i am out.

Elf Powder Brush = Flawless Skin

Hands up if you want to achieve a better looking "no make up" look by just using a brush. Toss away your stippling brush....powder puff...blending sponge!!

 

Ever wonder.....

1. Why your foundation is not giving you the coverage you want? 
2. Why are the streaks on your face?
3. Why your flawless makeup is not giving you the effect?  

We can change all the above. How? Easy peasy....just by changing the way you apply your makeup and all it takes is a USD 3 powder brush to do that.

  

Just use this brush, swirl it on any kind of foundation that you are using - liquid, loose powder, cream or 2 way cake foundation. Then swirl it on your face in soft circular motion, feels kinda of pampering i must say. Repeat all over face until you are happy with the coverage. You can layer your foundation for more coverage and yet not look cakey. The result is a flawless face, very natural looking and your pores will seriously appear smaller. I avoided using this method around my eye area cos they emphasised my lines *sob*.

 

 

I thought i might waste more foundation with this method but it proved me wrong. This e.l.f brush is quite dense so the foundation stayed on the tips and once swirled, the foundation gets transferred to your skin. No mess no waste!!

 

 

I love to use it but when it comes to blending the cream foundation, extra time is needed because of its thicker texture. But hey!! Its worth everything.

Or if you feel like rewarding yourself for the hard work you have rendered in 2012, you might want to check out the Shisedo foundation brush that has very good reviews and its RRP at SGD40. I sooooo drooling over it!! *Biting nails* resisting tempation to splurge. Mr Papi Mui!! You reading this???

But please remember to really dilligently cleanse your face at the end of the day to ensure that all make up are being removed from pores to prevent clogging. I always double cleanse just to be safe.

 

5 out of 5. I saw qoo10.sg selling the e.l.f powder brush at SGD8.90 (excluding shipping) or USD 3 from e.l.f website.

 

Loreal Infallible Eye Shadow

I didnt want to commit this act....the act of buying another item that will sit in my drawer forever...but the more i read about its reviews, i knew i had to have it *pull hair*.

 

It is actually a very very fine powder, contained in a pot and it feels a little damp and when you applied it on hand, it feels like cream. Hmm....u have to go and try it yourself on the texture, its a funny feel. Mine is the shade of 004 Forever Pink.

This eyeshaow looks very shimmery but once applied on the eyelids, it gave a light sheen and the color is very pigmented so a little is enough. It is also best applied with ring finger as i have tried brush and sponge applicator but both tools turned the eyeshadow into specks.

It is supposed to stay crease proof, water proof and last 24 hours but I did once applied it without my eye primer and it creased when i came home after 6 hours but i have oily lids to begin with. But it lasted a looong 12 hours when i applied eye primer to it. Even my trusty Clio eyeliner didnt even survived that long hours. And i found myself reaching for it alot for its easy blending.
 

5 out of 5 for this eyeshadow. RRP at SGD14.90 at Watsons.

PS: Do not throw away the black lid as it will be useful to keep the eyeshadow compact. I am sure you dont want a nasty surprise when you bring it on your next travel.

The Jyunka Challenge

I was invited by The Glamourous Factory to try out Jyunka, the cult brand from Japan. Jyunka is only available at some beauty salons so i was extremely excited when i was given the opportunity to try the Jyunka Challenge.   Its a pity that i didn't have the luxury to enjoy a full facial and i was worried that i will not do justice to the Jyunka challenge but my beautician Jolin assured me that i will be happy with what i see after she completes applying the 3 simple steps.   First, Jolin started off with cleansing to remove my makeup. The next step was an Epidermal Peel treatment. Oh great.....i am going to look like a red swollen pig head after this treatment. Jolin said it will only take 5 min (minimum is 3 min, max  is 5 min) for the cream to work its magic and nothing more but still i am skeptical. Jolin also highlighted to me that i will feel a wee biting sensation on my face and that is the cream doing its magic. I did feel some biting sensation but its not even uncomfortable plus my thoughts were still on the redness part *strum fingers on sides of bed*. The alarm went off after 5 minutes and she used cotton pads soaked with the epidermal lotion to neutralize the cream on my face by gently cleansing it in slow circular motion. Jolin asked me if like to have a look at my face, helluva YES! Amazingly.....no redness on my face and it felt smooth, clean and brighter.   Secondly, she proceeded to apply the Jyunka Boto Caviar which is fortified with Acacia Collagen and Sodium Hyaluronate (more powerful than HA). One of the key ingredients in Boto caviar is Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 which is an anti wrinkle substance that gives the similar effect of Botox without the use of needle. I think i am happier with this painless way.   Lastly, the Jyunka M+ fluid. The effect kicked in twenty minutes and i was in awe. My laugh lines were less visible and my skin felt taut. And this is even more bo-ing than my HA. See my before and after pictures below.   The treatment did gave me a brighter appearance but it didn't turn me a shade lighter which might mislead some after looking at the pictures. I couldn't get a very good "after" picture because the official camera man aka my hubby was enjoying his manicure session at the comfortable chair in The Glamourous Factory too.   The tautness lasted even till mid-day the next day, that's a total of 18 hours and i am still counting. I was told that the tautness can last a long 48hours.   Epidermal Peel Treatment Kit is RRP at SGD 119. This kit will stimulate the regenerative cells in your skin and you can also use it to treat those nasty blackheads. I personally love it cause it really lightened my spots on the side which really bothers me. Plus its affordable. A peel treatment done at any saloon can cost u at least a few hundred dollar each time. This peel kit should be able to let u use at least 6 times and at the comfort of your home.   Boto Caviar Serum is RRP at SGD 198 for 30ml which should lasts 7 - 8 weeks with twice daily use. With Acetyle Hexapeptide-8 being the key ingredients, you can reduce the appearance of wrinkles minus the pain from botox. And not forgetting the sodium hyaluronate which give life to our skin.   Jyunka M+ fluid is RRP at SGD 344 for 30ml which should lasts 7 - 8 weeks with twice daily use. Yes, hefty price but for a good reason. This is a few products rolled into one. It has L-ascorbic acid (vit c), lift up the face, tighten pores, lighten pigmentation and age spots. And the best part is, you can use it to reduce dark eye circles. That like a vit c, anti aging, whitening, pore tightening and dark eye circles solution - 5 products in 1. A good choice for the rush mornings.   I was jumping with joy when The Glamourous Factory announced that they will be having a special promotion for itriediwrite readers. Promotion are all valid till 31 Jan 2013. P R O M O T I O N   Intensive Facial Care (approx 75 mins) + Jyunka Challenge at a special price of $38 (RRP SGD108).   Yes SGD38 ONLY and a good chance to try the Jyunka products yourselves. Valid for first time customers only. (promo code: JC1) Purchase M+ Fluid at a special price of SGD298 (RRP SGD344) and get Jyunka Epidermal Peel Kit worth SGD119 FREE. (promo code: JC2) Purchase M+ Fluid, Jyunka Epidermal Peel, Boto Caviar Serum and Hyaluvital Cream at SGD615. (RRP SGD836) (promo code:JC3) Call and book your appointment NOW.... 21 McCallum Street #01-10, Singapore 069047 Tel: 6636 8236

Nuxe Multi Purpose Dry Oil

Travelling light has always been my top priority but i have never been able to achieve. There is always several "i surely need this" moments like 3 lipgloss, 3 mascaras, 2 blushers and 2 foundations. I even use to pack along my hair iron and dryer. *Roll eyes* As if i have the luxury to sit at the vanity table and use all of them. I am glad if i ever get to shower before dashing out of the hotel as my hubby and son are usually waiting impatiently at the hotel room door.

So i am quite excited to get the NUXE multi purpose oil in my Bellabox. You can use this on your face, body and hair!! Fab!! And it has vitamin E in it which i am a big fan right now because Vit E has anti-oxidant properties.  Its 3 essential products (face, body & hair) rolled into 1!! Yippee!! I think i can finally travel light!

 

For face, you can mix a little with your liquid foundation or you can use a tiny bit and dab it your face after finishing your foundation for that healthy glow. Please remember...TINY TINY bit. It can double up as a "night cream" should you forget yours.

For hair, you can use it to tame frizzines and its very good for dry ends. It makes the hair looks really glossy which i really like. You can also use it as a hair mask.

For body, you can use it just like your body lotion. I tested it on my arm and i couldn't find the patch where i tested it. It truly live up to its claim as a dry oil because it doesn't leave any oil slick.  You can even add a few drops to your bath water. Ohh....so pampering!

The one thing i didn't quite like is the smell of the products. Although 98.1% of the NUXE dry oil is all natural and has 6 precious oils in it but i thought the product smells a little like jasmine flower (not even one of the ingredient). But the smell faded slightly an hour after using it on my hair. Strangely, the smell didnt linger on my arms. Perhaps it has been soaked up by the skin.

3.5 out of 5 for this product. It is RRP at SGD68 for 100ml. Or you can try it by buying a copy of the Women's Weekly Dec 2012 (SGD Edition) as they are giving free 4ml NUXE dry oil sample with the magazine.

Beauty Blender or Blunder?

My son was jumping up and down screaming "New Toys New Toys" when he saw those pink "eggs" in my parcel the other day. Its new toys all right but its toy for ME ME ME!! I bought these cute babies from Beauty.com for USD 20.76 at a 20% discount (RRP 25.95).

"Beautyblender's patent-pending elliptical shape makes application foolproof by allowing you to access hard-to-reach areas with stunning ease. Its suede texture is sensual to the touch and its unique curves fit the contours of your face, leaving your make up dazzling and undetectable. Beautyblender is latex free, non-allergenic and odor free."

 

I know, you must be thinking i am mad to spend so much on a sponge (i thought so myself initially) but as always i did my research for quite a while and watched a few youtubes before i committed this act. I was thinking i dont have S$80 to spend on a luxury foundation brush but at least i can own these babies at a fraction of the price and they are PINK and odourless! I have a bag of those angled sponge from Daiso and the latex smell stayed on my face until the moment the makeup comes off. Its that baaaad!

 

To use the sponge, you first WASH them. Run it under water and u will feel it ballooning, then wash it with your regular cleanser and squeeze out excess water. Ta da, its ready to be used. You have to use this sponge damp.

Then gently pick up some foundation (cream or liquid) and start bouncing it on your face. You can use the pointed side to appply your concealer or for the sides of your nose.  Quite convenient as i dont have to switch tools for concealer. And this is quite a fool proof way of getting a flawless face because it doesnt leave your foundation streaky (if u use brush, it will sometimes).  

 

I have read reviews about how their skin looked like airbrush and natural etc but i must say personally the effect is the same as using a foundation brush. The only difference is i have to spend a little bit more time on blending when using a foundation brush.  I preferred this to the foundation brush.... yes yes yes, i have a foundation brush, alright but its not a SGD80 kind!!

 

Cleaning is simple, just wash it with the cleanser, squeeze out water and air dry.

 

3.5 out of 5 for these pinkies. It is not so convenient for travelling. I saw this at SaSa retail shop for SGD39.90 for a pair. So if u already own a SGD$80 foundation brush, then this may not be for you.

Hyaluronic Acid

I love Hyaluronic Acid (HA). In fact, if i can get my hands on any skincare products with HA in it, i will!! Why the obsession? Well, dry skin = dull and wrinkled skin and i am trying to delay the appearance of lines as far as possible.

For those who are not familiar with HA....this is one product you should really invest your time and money in. HA can deeply moisturise dry skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and its also known for its moisture boost ability to our skin because it will form a thin barrier film on the surface of our skin thus keeping our skin hydrated over a long period of time.

HA is colorless and fragrance free. It is a non greasy gel and because of its small molecules, the gel was quick to be absorbed into the skin thus plump up the skin. For people who don't like the sticky feeling of your moisturiser, this should be for you as you can barely feel the gel.

I am sure everyone owns a Habo Labo lotion...but that is just the first step. You can pamper your skin with more HA. The HA from Neogence is always on my re-stock list because you can easily get it from SaSa retail shop or SaSa online and 1 drop is all you need for your whole face. You can add more on areas which are drier when the 1st layer dries. Also love its clinical drip type dispenser which makes me feel like i am a MAD scientist with my secret concoction and of cos not to mention that contamination will be kept to the minimal. The Neogence HA is retailing at USD 25.50 for 20ml online. If you buy from SaSa retail shop, its slightly more expensive. I reckon about SGD40.  

I am currently using a HA (aka Hydra B5 Gel) from Cosmetic Skin Solutions (CSS) at USD 29.85 for 30ml thinking its the same thing as Neogence HA but just realised that this one has *Vit B5 in it. And having B5 is a bonus in my HA!! Hurray to a serum that not just hydrate but also heals at the same time. CSS ships to Singapore via USPS mail and did i mention that they also have an eye gel with HA in it!!

5 out of 5. With skin so bo-ing....it is a sin not to own a HA serum.

*Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid): A safe, effective, natural vitamin and essential nutrient for wound-healing (promotes epithelialization), treatment of damaged skin, and acne. Pantothenic acid is also referred to as an anti-stress vitamin, due to its essential role in the formation of various adrenal hormones, which allow the body to adapt to and respond effectively to various types of stress.

Olay Pro X Cleansing System

The Olay Pro X Cleansing System is not a new product, in fact it has been on the market for years. I came across it when i was reading about the Clarisonic Skin Cleansing System. Both clean with a circular motion that gently removes impurities out of our pores and remove our dead skin at the same time. Think of it as an electronic toothbrush but this one is bigger. The usual way we wash our face may not be able to purge the dirt out of our pores thus making our pores more visible with all the dirt in them.

So i went ahead and bought the Olay because of its price. I wasnt sure if it was going to work wonders and i wasnt prepare to spend a bomb so Olay was THE choice. I bought it for USD24.99 from drugstore.com as it is not available in Singapore. For Clarisonic, the basic model will cost USD119 with alot of colors to choose from. For Olay, its just white.  The Olay Pro X kit comes with a deluxe sample cleanser and 2 AA batteries.

The Olay didnt disappoint me as i can see results almost immediately. But these 2 pictures were taken 2 days apart with more visible proof. The recommended usage is twice a day but i didnt want to irritate my skin so i used it once a day. I also realised that my skincare seem to be absorbed into my skin almost instantly and especially for my Kiehls Midnight Recovery Oil which always seem to leave my face shinny in the morning didnt happen the next day after i used it.

The Olay has 2 speeds but no timer so you have to watch the clock while cleansing your face for a minute. Which is more than sufficient as i have time to cleanse the whole face. First you lather your face with your cleanser, then wet the brush a little, switch it on and start rotating it on your face. You can use it in the shower as it is waterproof but personally i used it before i shower so i can have a good look in the mirror to ensure all areas are being covered. The Olay operates on 2 AA batteries which is convenient, no charging cord to hassle ourselves with.

If you are thinking of getting a manual brush, i have seem a really soft one from Shisedo retailing at SGD$35 i think. That one has good review from the internet. But plssssss..........just dont buy the BodyShop one retailing at below SGD$5. I have one of those and it hurts me like h*ll! And i thought i bought a brush from the manicure range for brushing off debris after the trimming. Its baaaaaad!! Trust me. Left a burning sensation on my face because the brush was terribly stiff.

5 out of 5 for this Olay baby. Love it to death, only wish it is available in Olay Singapore. Tsk tsk tsk...my hubby also loves it, in fact he is head over heel with it.

Primers

I was on a lookout for a good foundation but primer was THE top of the list before foundation. Why? There are alot of primers on the market - to even skin tone, to brighten skin, to make our makeup last longer etc. But a primer is also known to be filling up our pores and lines so our foundation goes on smooth, and you can actually use lesser of your foundation and have a more natural flawless look.

I already had a Laura Mercier foundation primer before i bought the Smashbox photofinish primer. Not that i am not happy with my Laura Mercier but there was a 20% discount and i am dying to try the Smashbox primer, literally dying.....*grin* Both primers have their diehard fans and i really can't make myself walk away from the Smashbox primer when i was at the Sephora 20% discount event. i bought it at SGD$52 after the discount. Well actually to justify my purchase ...there is a difference in them....kekekeke, i bought the Smashbox primer in the oil free version. See.....there is DIFFERENCE.

In case you don't already know - A primer should be applied after your moisturiser and before your foundation. I like my Laura Mercier foundation primer which has vitamin A, C and E in it. For Smashbox Photo Oil Free Finish primer, it has a blend of vitamins A & E, grape seed extract and green tea.  If you want a primer, buy one with added vitamins so it benefits your skin especially when you wear your foundation for a long period. The clear gel is from Smashbox and the another one is from Laura Mercier. Both are colorless once you applied to your face. Smashbox has no fragrance and Laura Mercier has kinda of sunblock smell to it but the smell simply disappeared when it dries.

I applied both primers to my half face and then followed by my Laura Mercier tinted moisturiser compact SPF 20 on both sides.   Both dried very fast and were non sticky. But the Smashbox has a really silky smooth finish, almost like when you use the Laura Mercier mineral finishing powder. The Laura Mercier (LM) primer has a sheen to it but the Smashbox (SM) is naturally matte. Some might like the sheen but personally i dont so i would use my LM powder to tame it down.

I tried my Smashbox primer yesterday for 6 hours and the makeup was still very fresh looking. For the Laura Mercier, the makeup lasted but minus the fresh looking effect.

Smashbox is retailing at SGD$65 for 30ML. Laura Mercier is retailing at SGD54 for 50ML.

5 out of 5 for the Smashbox and 4.8 out of 5 for Laura Mercier. Both are the ultimate gateway to flawless skin.

Clio Twisturn Waterproof Turnliner

The year end is coming and alot of people would already have plans for parties!! What will your make up be like?? If lining your eyes will be your choice, please read this.  This is important as the last time i tightline my eyes using eyeshadow and i turned into a raccoon 4 hours later and my hubby didn't even have the courtesy to tell me. When i confronted him, he said i am always trying new things and he thought the raccoon eyes was the latest fad. *FUME*

So the next day, i rushed off to Watsons in search of a waterproof eye liner. But the downside with Watsons is they have alot of products for you to try but the testers are always empty or dried up. The eye liners that i wanted to try were either brutally damaged or completely dried up. I knew i had to take a chance....super thin liner, gel liner, pencil liner, liquid liner etc etc. What should i pick!! I decided to take the plunge and try out CLIO - a professional No. 1 Korean eyeliner brand! Look at those kpop gals, i cannot go wrong with an eyeliner from a country when majority of their gals are spotted with lined eyes.

You have to twist the end of the liner to activate the eyeliner but don't turn it too many times as it will results in excessive liquid oozing out. I said 2 turns at first then add 1 turn each time until u see a drop on your brush. Tissue the drop off and its ready for use. Then turn once when you need to use it each time. The liner is surprisingly easy to use and it didn't "spread" on my eyelids. Some liners will "spread" and cause uneven line. It lasted a good 6 hours and it was still "fresh" when i got home. 



What i also like about this liner is that the black is not intensively black which can look very harsh on our eyes and it has a soft shimmering effect. I got mine in Urban Black No.8. There are 8 colors to choose from. I am very clumsy with liquid liners but this one,i have absolutely no complaint. If i can do it, i believe those eyeliner experts out there will do it in record time. I read some reviews that the liner dries up pretty fast but like most liquid liners, that is a common problem.

 

I also tried sprinkling some water onto my eye lids and the color didn't run but it didn't survive the shower (without washing face), the color simply disappeared after i finished washing my hair. No recommended for swimming!!

 

4 out of 5. SGD$24.90 from Watsons. This should be able to survive our unpredictable weather and the trip to the hair saloon. Don't know why they always wet my eyelids when they wash my hair.....

Tsubaki Damage Care Conditioner

Perfect outfit, perfect makeup but do u know a bad hair can ruin everything. I know because my hair is my worst enemy. It is fizzy, coarse and very very stiff - everything that a gal shouldn't have. If Rapunzel was real, i am sure she will go crazy seeing my lion mane. Here is a pic to prove my point. My hubby was laughing away cos he said i posted an untrue pic cos on some days its even worst!!


I wasn't diligently using a conditioner until i turned 20 year old because my galfrds went bonkers when they found out i wasn't using one on a regular basis. So they nagged, begged and convinced me the importance of a conditioner.  The purpose of a hair conditioner is to protect your hair against dryness. adds moisture, texturizes limpy hair and of cause adds shine. Who doesn't want silky bouncy hair, right?

I have used alot of drugstore conditioners but Tsubaki Damage Care conditioner is probably the ONE and ONLY conditioner i have already restocked 3 bottles because its affordable and it really does what it claims to be. It promises to smoothen out hair and leaves it tangle free. It is so good that you can feel the difference when your hair brushes against your neck. And i don't even need a separate serum to tame my hair or use a ionised hair dryer to smooth out my hair. It even makes me a little flirtatious cos i found myself touching and flipping my hair when i am alone sitting at the bus stop. It also smells good, almost like those they use in a saloon.

5 out 5 for this product. I think Watsons is retailing at SGD$18.90 but i bought mine from Chinatown for SGD$13.50.  This is one time and cost saving product.

Skinmiso - Pore Beauty Nose Pack

I hate my blackheads but i hate it even more when my beautician tries to remove it when i go for my facial sessions. Even after the steaming process, the blackheads doesnt seem to budge at all. The extracting process always leave me in tears...and i really meant big ones rolling down my cheeks.

Joy to my world when i was introducted to Skinmiso Pore Beauty Nose Pack in my August Bellabox. When i read about the hassle i have to go through to do a blackhead extraction, i almost wanted to give this away but i glad i didnt. You might wonder why can't i just extract it using one of those tradtional metal blackhead remover. Well...its because i always end up overdoing it and ended up with a red and peeling nose the next day. With this Skinmiso Pore Beauty Nose Pack, it makes things alot easier even though it took me 20mins + 2 mins of extraction time to complete the process but i said its worth every minute.

 

Skinmiso is a 3 steps blackhead removal programme. It sounded like alot of work but really the work is all about washing your face and placing the nose packs on your nose. So how hard is that right?? To get started, wash your face with tepid water with your regular cleanser.

 

First - Place the Step 1 nose pack on your nose and wait for 10 mins. What this mask does is to remove your blackheads but of cos its doesnt literally removes it but what it did is more like softening and loosening the blackheads. Remove mask after 10mins and exfoliate with ur blachkead extractor or just use tissue paper to push out the blackheads. I used tissue only because it is really easy to get the junk out, just give it a gentle push and POP out came the blackheads. So happy!!

Second -  Wash your nose with water and put on Step 2 mask and wait for another 10mins. This mask is to calm and tighten the pores. After 10mins remove mask and rub in the excess essence.

 

Third - Rub in the Pore Beauty Silky Essence and you are done.

 

I also noticed that my blackheads didnt come back as fast as they used to be after i use this.
 

4.5 out of 5 for this product. Although its time consuming but it didnt give me red nose effect the next day. SGD$27.90 for 10 times use.

Bio-essence Birdnest Bio Energy Firm & Brighten Eye Cream SPF 15

Few months back, I found fine lines under my eye! Only on my right eye though and only one or maybe two lines at most  (oblivious self kicks in), some days the lines are not there but the some days rarely happen anyway!! Sigh, reality reality. Usually the lines doesn't bother me until i put on concealer and the concealer starts to cake into the lines which emphasized the lines further.  Worst of all - a lot of websites stated.....fine lines is the first sign of aging. I am only 35!!!!!

 

As we age, we lose collagen and can't replenish it fast enough to give our face back the plump look we once have. Smoking, laughing and smiling, squinting and sun exposure can all cause fine lines. I don't smoke and squint but I laugh and smile a lot and won't stop laughing just because of a few fine lines so the only thing I can manage within my mean is SUN EXPOSURE. Then I realized, I smeared my face with SPF 28++ but I have not been apply any SPF lotion to my eyes area since I started skincare routine. Hmm...20 years of neglecting my eyes! If you are one of those who applied your daily SPF face lotion on your eyes, it might have helped somehow but most of us will know that the eyes area are super delicate so it's best to use a separate eye cream with SPF because your day lotion might be too rich for your eyes thus causing milia seeds. 

So I search the Internet for some SPF eye cream - too expensive or not available in Singapore etc. I saw some were selling at SGD$70 a tube for 15ml. Gulp.....I am not sure I want to spend this much on a SPF eye cream. I rather spend it on a good night eye cream. I only want a eye cream with SPF and my sun exposure is minimal so I don't need a SPF 50 eye cream and I am not sure if it will cause breakout. After a week of searching, I found one at Watson going on promotion for SGD$26 (usual price SGD$33) with SPF15 and it's from Bio-essence.

 

The eye cream felt more like gel than cream and is lightly scented. The eye cream came with a funny applicator which was supposed to help you massage the cream into the eye cream which I tried on day one and it took forever to get the cream to be absorbed into my skin and I only have a 10 minute day routine and I used 2 minutes to massage the eyes and the cream was still all over the place. Messy! Good if you have spare time as I am sure the applicator will help with blood circulations thus lighten dark circles. On day 2, i squeezed a pea sized amount on my hand and used my ring finger to apply it on my eye areas which was so much better. But if you thinking of applying concealer immediately after the cream, may I suggest you wait as like any other stuff you put on your face, you have to wait a minute at least for it to set it and absorb by your skin before you proceed to put another stuff on. Rushing through will do no justice to your skincare products. The cream has a matte silky finishing and my concealer glided on easily.

I have only been using this eye cream for a week and I am not expecting miracle of having my lines removed but I will like to put a stop to more lines, at least buy some time. This cream is more of a preventive measures than cure. And I am sure a lot of ladies out there have also neglected this important routine and it can be easily incorporated into your daily routine just by replacing an eye cream with SPF. I have seen one at Shisedo with SPF 25 selling at SGD$44 after I bought my Bio-essence *sulk*. Both at 15ml but Shisedo has higher SPF.

2 out of 5 for Bio-essence eye cream with SPF15. I really need it just for the SPF protection. The firming and brightening part has yet to wow me. Maybe I should really use the funny applicator again...when i have the time.

Another BB Cream.....

 

I was given the Biotherm BB White D-Tox in my Bella Box and i was about to give it away as you all know i have lost complete hope in the BB cream but still i decided to give it a try before i send it off. Errr...well, In fact, i used it twice because i am really love it but it just didnt quite work out for me.

What the Biotherm BB White D-tox can do for your skin - Biotherm 1^st dual-action transparency revealer Hydrating BB Cream. An instant, complexion-correcting action for all skin tone. The ultra-fine tinted texture enriched with mineral pigments instantly corrects dyschromia for transparency and lets skin breathes, for a unified and brightened complexion. It's oil-free, 24hours hydrating formula infuses skin with freshness and comfort all day long. Dermatologically and allergy tested, non-comedogenic.

As seen in the pic below, my left side of the face is brighten and especially the dark circle which i didnt even use concealer. Definitely a time saver since i can skip the concealer but its a shame the shade is again too light for my slightly tanned skin. This BB cream is pretty lightweight so you can slowly layer on and it doesnt leave you with streaky face. I agreed with the oil free part because my face only shined slightly after 6 hours and i didnt even use my Laura Mercier finishing powder to set it. I didnt get breakout when i removed it so this is one BB cream that i would recommend.

I would like to keep this BB Cream but i have to admit this is definitely a BB cream for people with fairer skin tone. Sigh....i hope they come out with different color tones soon. Its selling at SGD$70.

4 out of 5 for this product.