Oslee Rosehip Beauty Solution Advanced Formula III

I don't even remember where I got this.  Vaguely, I think this was a birthday gift from one of my girlfriends a while back and it has been sitting in the cabinet for a while now.

Now, some of you may know that I have an issue with my skin, where it can get quite dehydrated without any particular reason.  I was reading about this product online and figured that it's supposed to add some moisture to my skin.  My face was feeling a little tight recently and I decided to give this a try.

Honestly, it's a hydrating toner.  I don't expect it to work like a moisturiser, and it doesn't.  What it does though, it adds another layer of moisture to my already dry skin.  When topped up with hydrating essence and moisturiser, my skin does feel a bit more hydrated.  On days where I was rushing and skipped it, I do feel that my skin is slightly tighter than usual and I usually have to add another layer of moisturiser instead.  With this, one layer of hydrating essence and hydrating moisturiser works.

I won't say that it's an awesome product, but it helps a bit and I don't mind that at all.  Will I repurchase?  I honestly don't know.  I'm not crazy over toner and I can be quite lazy when it comes to adding stuff onto my skin.  We shall see how it goes later after I finish this.  Unless of course, there's something else out there that might help my dehydrated skin?

Do let me know if you think I ought to give some other products a try :D

P/s:  as you have noticed, my blogging has been sporadic.  There are some stuff happening in my life at the moment and I'm still trying to play catch up with life.  Thanks though, for being so patient with me.

February Empties

Well now, it's that time of the month where I review what I've finished and what I gave away as they don't suit me.  Figured that if I can't use the item, it means I can also bless someone with it and not waste it :)

1. ianti luxe jewelry Clear Mask Pack
This one is a throw.  I totally forgotten about this product and I think it has sat in my shelf for at least 4-5 years.  That is seriously a long time, so off it goes into the bin instead.

2. Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil

You can read the review here.  I did not stock up on this because I find that it seems to be drying my skin these days.  Well, as the years passes by, I believe our skin does change as well, so I'm looking at different make up removers now to see which one suits me.  If you have any interesting ones, do drop me a note so that I can check them out :)

3. Galacto Myces 100% Pure Natural Skincare

I found this at Q0010.my.  It's listed to be similar to SKII and I thought why not give it a try.  Will write a review on it later.  Stay tune, folks! 

4. Skincerity Nightly Breathable Masque

Back a while ago, when my skin was breaking out like crazy, I was desperate.  Desperate enough to buy this item that costs me RM200.  It's a small bottle, but it did last me quite a fair bit.  Did it help?  I guess it did a little, but I just find it too expensive to continue at this point.  Plus, now my skin is well again, I'll give it a pass for now.

5. Maybelline Make Up Remover Eye & Lip

Sigh, I've not posted on this, have I?  Don't worry, it will be rectified soon.  Save to say, this is a must have for me.

6. Clean & Clear Essentials Foaming Facial Wash

Another item that I bought during my desperate time in warding off all the pimples that kept popping on my skin.  Save to say, I'm glad I bought the small bottle.  It is a little harsh for my skin (combi T-zone oily and cheeks dry) and I only use it on alternate days, and it's only in the evening on days where I'm out the whole day.  

7. Maybelline Unstoppable Curly Extension 100% Smudgeproof Full Length Curling Mascara

I remember when I was purchasing this, I was debating whether to get the smudgeproof or the waterproof one.  Thinking that smudge proof would work, I grabbed it.  Instantly at the first use, I regretted it because I ended up looking like a panda.  I've since attempted to use it a few times, but it still smudged.  Sigh... It's been sitting on my shelf for a while.  Decided to pass it to a friend who uses mascara daily and she said she don't mind using this too.

8. Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner in Grey
See the size of it?  It's so short now that I wasn't able to sharpen it at all.  I have to say, I love it.  It stays on well and the smudging is minimal at the end of a long day (like 10 hours).  I can use this without any primer and it's good.  This was a mini eyeliner which I bought off my friend.  Will definitely try to get a replacement after I finish all the eyeliners I got from Korea.

9. Hanskin Natural Brow Mascara
This was a gift from my aunt, which she bought from Korea.  I like it cause it does make my eye brow looks natural and it's a quickie for me to use.  I tend to just grab this and swipe it on my eye brow when I need to make a quick dash or if I am late.  Not sure if there's Hanskin here, or if they have this product.  Save to say, I'll want to look for it when I'm out and about.

10. Eyeliner from Korea
I have no idea what is the brand of this item.  It's long faded and there's no way for me to identify it.  Save to say, I won't miss it because it pulls my eyelids when I use.  I'm glad that I finished using it.

11. Eye Palette from Daiso
I bought this during my initial times when I was attempting to try different colours on my eyes without incurring huge cost.  It's good for testing.  However, it does get chalky and it doesn't last long on the lids.

Etude House Aloe Moistfull Soothing Lotion

I was walking around Paradigm Mall after dinner with one of my girl friends when we spotted Etude House having sale.  Us being us, we couldn't resist having a look at what's on sale when we saw the buy one free one sign.  I was facing some breakouts (this was back in early/ mid 2013) and was uncertain what was the cause of it but I knew I needed something to counteract it, so I decided on the products below:  

Today, I'll be focusing on the Aloe Moistfull Soothing Lotion.  

Packaging

First thing that I want to talk about is the packaging.  It comes in a glass bottle.  Yes, the whole bottle is glass.  Although it does lend a luxurious feel to the product, I have to say I was a little scared whenever I use it.  I worried that I would either accidentally dropped the bottle and it shatters, or I accidentally knock it down and it... shatters.... yes, it is quite freaky to me, me being clumsy and all.  Nonetheless, I do brave on and use it.... (and later on, I decanted it into a different bottle, which I will write about it in another post).

Also, because it is a glass bottle, it is quite hefty.  Now, I love the feel of it, but when you combine it with a big nozzle (yes, it doesn't come with a pump), I have to say, I dislike it.  Why?  Because I can't control the amount that I pour out due to the heftiness of the bottle.  A heavier tilt gives me too much of the lotion whereas the a lighter tilt does me naught.  

As this is a lotion, I tend to use it during the day, and on alternate use for night as my skin is not able to use cream on a daily basis.   Don't ask me how, but there's a tinge of green that comes with it.  Usually for me, I see aloe as something that's non-coloured, but here, it carries a light tinge of green.  It's okay, just, green... haha...

Texture
 In terms of texture, I like the fact that it wasn't too liquid nor too thick.  You can see from the picture.  That is from one drop from the bottle.  However, as I mentioned earlier, tilting it correctly will determine the amount of the lotion on your hand.  I do have to be careful whenever I pour it out due to the heftiness of the bottle.  I like its texture.  It feels liquidy upon application and gets absorbed into the skin fairly quickly, without leaving my skin feeling sticky.

Efficacy
Well, I'm fairly surprised that it does work.  Somehow, I think my skin gravitates to korean products, which caters for Asian skin.  It doesn't cause my skin to have oil seeds (it happens when a product is too rich) and leaves my skin feeling supple and nice.   Although I was using it with tea tree oil, I find that it's not as dry as before and my skin stopped feeling tight, and feels just right.  I also don't have to worry about over applying as it's more of a watery base and it wasn't too rich on my face.

I'm now left with only a little of the product and am looking to restock soon.  Hopefully, there'll be another promotion of a similar sort =D

Project Declutter: Save the best for the last!

Well, this is a ladies' blog after all and most ladies love their skincare and make up goodies, don't we? hehe.... I saved my empties/ binnings to be the last.  This are mainly the things that I've used up in January itself and I have to say that I am proud of myself for being so diligent in clearing as many of my skincare this time round.

1. Plante System Purete Cleansing Micellar Water

Saw this in Guardian in Singapore and bought it at a whim as I was attracted by its cute size and portability.  It works as a cleansing water, but not as well as Bioderma's.  One thing that really puts me off was its strong scent.  It's seriously too strong.  I was diligently using it as I was trying to finish it because I just can't take its smell.  Not going to be a rebuy when I head down to Singapore.  I managed to open it up so I'll decant my big bottle of Bioderma into it =D

2. Himalaya Herbal Nourishing Skin Cream

You can read the review here.  Am trying to finish my other face creams before I restock on this.  Definitely a good buy.

3. Boots Skin Smoothing Serum

Don't really fancy it.  Suspected that it was breaking me out.  I use it occasionally but not regularly.  I ended up using this on my neck rather than my face in order to avoid any possible breakouts.  Don't really think it works too.

4. Waterproof Surgical Lash Adhesive

Bought this eons ago and totally forgot about it.  I was attempting to use eyelashes but failed miserably.  Decided to just chuck it away and be done with it.

5. The FaceShop Arsainte Eco-Therapy Extreme-Moisture Ideal Essence 

This is a lifesaver.  I was using it when I was down in Melbourne for holiday and it kept my skin thoroughly moisturised.  I truly love it.  It's really a good essence to use.  It's non-sticky and is quickly absorbed into the skin, leaving a lovely moisturised skin.  Hoping to buy it when TheFaceShop have sale.

6. Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk SPF 50+PA+++

Review is available here.  Am glad I finished it.

7. Artistry Pure White Essence

I like its texture but I don't think much about its efficacy.  I do think that there are some products which require you to use its full range and probably for Artistry, it is such.  Didn't really lighten my pigmentation but it did make my skin looking bright overall.

8. Skin79 Super+ BB Whitening Cream

Bought this back in 2009 and seriously, these are long lasting.  Don't be deceived by its small size.  It lasted me a good number of holiday trips and occasional use back here in KL.  I am just glad that I'm done with it. hehe

9. Etude House Brown Gel Liner 02

This was my first gel liner.  Thought it would be a good buy to try, but sadly, it didn't work on my oily eyelids.  It could barely last on my lids and I always ended up looking like a panda.  It dried up pretty quickly too, and I'm binning it because it's all dried up and I cannot use it anymore.  

10. Aloe Moistfull Soothing Lotion

This product warrants a post of its own.  So be on the lookout for it ya.

Himalaya Herbal Nourishing Skin Cream

Again, another whim purchase when I was in Singapore back in July.  I saw it being sold at around SGD6 (or less, can't remember exact amount) in Singapore and decided to get it since I was having issues with dry and flaky skin back then.    Well, it does say that it is All Day Moisturizing with Aloe Vera and Winter Cherry.

It's description:
Nourishes, Moisturizes and Protects
A light and non-greasy daily use cream, to keep you skin healthy and supple.  Aloe Vera nourishes and moisturizes, while Winter Cherry and Indian Kin Tree protect the skin from pollution and dry weather.

Direction: Massage gently on cleansed body, face and neck.

Of course, I do have some qualms when it comes to getting cream because my skin can't really tolerate a whole lot of creams and tends to veer more towards lotion types instead.  However, I couldn't resist giving it a try as there's aloe vera in it and I've also heard good feedback from friends about the brand Himalaya Herbal.

I know, it seems to be a body moisturiser (I saw the big tub!) and yet, I couldn't resist using it on the face since it does say to be able to use on face ;p

Here's the list of ingredients:

Packaging
It comes in a plastic tub, wider in terms of circumference and shallower in terms of depth.  I kinda like it.  It makes it easier for me to get the cream as it becomes less because I don't have to dig too deep and get all the cream in between my nails (you know what I mean).  I also like that there's a foil included.  I don't have to worry about the cream coming out from the tub, especially when I bring it with me to travel.

Texture
It is cream texture, slightly on the thicker side.  You will need to warm it on your hands before applying onto your face so that it doesn't get  no doubt about it, and it stay true to its description of being non-greasy.  It is actually quite light and absorbs rather quickly into the skin.  Because it's non-greasy, I don't have to deal with oily or sticky fingers upon application.  However, you need to have enough for your face to avoid double dipping your fingers as well as stretching and pulling your face trying to put enough onto your skin.

I'm one who tends to avoid using creams on my face because my skin tends to break out (due to some ingredients).  I have to say this nourishing skin cream doesn't and it works well for me.  It is   fast becoming one of my staple skin care for night use.  Although I have quite a number of creams waiting for me, I'm tempted to buy another one when this tub is finished.

I do quite like this nourishing skin.  I sometimes use it on my other body parts too, especially the heels when they end up being neglected and become quite wrinkly and dry :(

Although it is just 50g, it has lasted me for quite a few months.  For the price paid, it is quite a good bargain :)

If you're looking for something that's not too expensive and easily available, I'd recommend this to you =D

Macadamia Oil for Skincare

When I was in Australia back in October 2013, my aunt was telling me about using macadamia oil as moisturiser.  She shared that a friend told her that most of the luxurious skincare uses macadamia oil as part of their ingredients and there's loads of benefits to it.  Intrigued, I decided to buy a bottle home.  I found one at Woolworths at their cooking oil aisle.  Yeap, you heard me right, cooking oil aisle.

A quick check reveals the following that caught my attention:

Palmitoleic acid:  Macadamia contains one of the highest sources of palmitoleic fatty acids.
This is vital for delaying skin and cell aging, ensuring that our skin stays supple.  But as we age, As we age, it decreases and our skin will age rapidly with the loss of it.

Squalene: Rich sources of squalene
Squalene is a naturally occusing antioxidant that's present in our human skin surface lipids.

(info extracted across a few websites: Naturally Curly, Naked Chemist, Mark's Daily 

Of course, there are many more benefits that's listed and you can do further research on them.

Here's what's listed at the back of the bottle:

During that time, I was having some issue with dry cheeks.  It tends to be drier and they get flaky often, so I'd thought that this might help me to deal with it.  From the initial use, I found that:

• not oily nor sticky.  It goes onto my skin easy enough and it doesn't leave any oily residue.  It feels supple and yet, it's your skin (if you know what I mean)
• No overpowering smell.  Macadamia nut has a smell.  All nuts do.  But when I apply this onto my skin, the smell doesn't really stay.  it was a soft smell that goes off probably 5 seconds later.  
• Doesn't cause my skin to feel oily overnight.  I used it at night, and I found that as the night goes on (even before I sleep), it doesn't make my skin feel oily.  Instead, the next morning, my skin feels replenished and it was looking rather natural, without any flakes.

I also tried it on my lips with the balance of the oil on my fingers and when the morning comes, I found that my lips were no longer dry and it feels nice.  The skin on lips were not peeling either when morning comes.  It actually felt more comfortable than applying lip balm for the oiliness disappear once it gets absorbed.

I've been using it a few nights a week and my skin never develop any oil seeds (which sometimes happen with some of the cream based moisturiser that I used).  Instead, I find my skin getting better in terms of moisture level and it doesn't flake as much.

After using it for a few months, I find that I actually look fresher the next morning after use even when it's nights where I don't sleep well.  I find that it gave me the result similar to Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate (MRC) in terms of fresh looking and glow on my skin.  And with a moisturised skin, I find my foundation staying better on my skin and doesn't slide of as easily.

I'm already thinking of asking my friend to get me another bottle of macadamia oil when she comes over.

(purchased at AUD3.99 at Woolworths, 250ml).

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Essence with Progressive Release System

I bought this for fun when I was in Singapore a few months back seeing that it only costs SGD12.90 and I find that my skin was feeling dry then.  After using it for a while, I find that this is quickly becoming a staple in my skincare routine.

Based on the description:

This is a pump bottle and I find that a single pump is enough for my face.  It comes out as white lotion that instantly makes my skin feel smooth upon application.  The pump bottle functions well and I've not gotten into any issues with it.

After using it for a couple of months, I find that my skin no longer flakes (yea, I was having some flaky skins cum acne issues earlier due to dehydration of the skin).   The cheek area where my skin tends to feel tighter and drier ceases to feel so.  Instead it felt even more nourished.  With that too, I find that my foundation/ BB cream adheres to my skin better too.  I guess that's because my skin isn't as dry and flaky as compared to previously.

I really like it.  I've tried other essence but I don't find them working as well as this one.  I guess it has to do with the progressive release system, so the hydration stays longer compared to other essence.

When I went to Watsons/Guardian here in KL to check out the prices, I was kinda shocked to see that it costs RM79.90 per bottle.  So, when I was down in Singapore recently, I made a point to visit the store (Beaute Spring - available at Nex Singapore - next to Watsons and also in Bugis area - same row as Burger King) and stock up on it.  Even the sales lady was telling me to buy more and stock up as it's cheaper there.

This definitely will be my must buy items whenever I head down to Singapore. A decent priced item which works well for me =D

Watsons Deep Cleansing Nose Pore Strips with Witch Hazel and Aloe Vera Extract

To be honest, I was a little hesitant to buy this item.  Maybe because it's under the Watsons brand.  Having a in-house brand items is something that's being practiced back in Australia wayyy back, but being back in Asia, there's this sense of hesitancy and reluctance to give it a try.  Nonetheless, I was a little desperate as I couldn't find any other brand besides Biore (doesn't really work for me), so I thought, oh well, what the heck.

When I opened it up, the first thing that hits me is that it doesn't have the creases in between to make way for the shape of the nose, not as what was in the picture.  It doesn't fair well for me because I find it hard to fit the shape of my nose without those creases here and there.

Secondly, it's thinner than the Charcoal one that I was using prior. It does feel a little weird due to the lack of crease and the thin texture.

Thirdly, when I brought it close to my nose to stick it, I was suddenly engulfed by this overpowering smell!  It's herb-like and it's very, very strong.  I reckon it might be the witch hazel smell.  Ergh... if you are sensitive to smell, please, stay away from this product.

In the midst of all these, I have to say that it works.  It really sticks to your nose, so you have to make sure it's position rightly because sticking, because it doesn't budge once you stick it in.  Also, because it's thinner than the usual strips, it dries rather quickly.  It's easily removable too, which I believe is because it's thin.  At the same time, it does clear my nose of the gunks!  Nope, no pictures of the gunk this time round.  I doubt you can see it clearly though.

Seriously, it's just the smell that turns me off.  Otherwise, I'd say this is a good buy.

Binnings for May & June 2012

Another batch of binnings!  I'm making way in clearing up my stuff every 2 months.  Now, how to get the make up stuff to be cleared off much faster?  That itself is a definite feat.

The Body Shop Mascara.  This was a gift from someone a while back.  I didn't even remember I had it in one of my drawers.  It's long gone I guess, given that it's now all dried up.

Biore UV Sunblock.  Review coming up soon!

Hada Labo Arbutin Essence.  Had this for ages.  Does it work?  Hm, I don't really think so?  Anyhow, it took forever for me to finish it as I find my skin a little intolerant to long term use of whitening products.  I kept stopping after using it a few weeks in a row.

Life Code  BioTRA Moisturizing Essence.  This came with a trial pack that I received when I attended their blogger event.  It was kinda chucked aside until recently when I find my skin getting extremely dry.  It's a gel transparent essence.  I tend to apply it onto my cheek area and it does help to lessen the dryness I was experiencing.  It's quite a small tube so I did finish it quite fast.  No idea the price of it now.

Elisha Coy Always Nuddy BB 24.  After chucking it aside and using it only occasionally, I'm finally done with it.  Lovely item, except when it slides off the face after about 5 hours or so.

Loreal Angelfit Concealer.  Been using it for like, forever.  The recent few times that I used it, it kinda turn funny on my face, hence off it goes to the bin.  

Loreal Hydrafresh Anti-Shine All Day Hydrating & Mattifying Icy Gel.  Like it, but can't use it for too long.  Might've caused my skin to be drying rather than hydrating though.  What I like is the icy feeling when applied on the skin.  Other than that, hm... might not be for me I guess.

Lip Balm.  Honestly, I can't for the life of me remember the brand of this lip balm.  It has the word Bee with it and it's available at Watsons.  I really dislike this lip balm because it's so waxy and thick.  It feels a little yucky when applied.  I forced myself to finish it because I don't want to waste it.  This will not be repurchased.  I do think those lip balm from Daiso scores better than this long tube here.

I do realise that out of all these, I've only written a few of them.  Need to get my butt moving de!

Throwies for the month of March and April 2012

Time seriously has been flying! I can't believe that it's already May?!

Well, I'm happy to share that I've cleared 9 stuff from my stores of numerous things.  Make up seriously tends to be slower for me because I do very simple make up.

1. Maybelline Make Up remover

2. Loreal Hydrafresh All Day Hydration Aqua Gel

3. Rexona Women Naturals Bioprotection
I like this.  I saw that this item was marked-down at Watsons for reason of its due date (end April) and I thought, what the heck, I'll make good use of it for two months then.  And worked it I did.  I love that it isn't watery nor sticky.  It applies on smoothly and the smell's quite "nature", if you know what I mean.  I think the best part is that it works to keep my perspiration at bay =D  I love it and would definitely go and grab one of these again.

4. Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil

5. Simple Kind to Skin Facial Cleanser
A simple cleanser that works to keep my cheeks from drying out and yet at the same time, keeps my T-zone from oilies.

6. Benefit Some kind-a-Gorgeous
Bought this for ages.  Realised that it doesn't work for me anymore because it turns a shade orange-y after a while. Urgh... Nonetheless, it fits my skin to a T when I first got it years back.  Time to bin I guess.

7. Vaseline Healthy Sunblock

8. Hada Labo Hyaluronic Lotion

Binnings for the Last 3 Months

Been ages since I've done this.  I'm growing ever more in my binnings and I'm quite happy about it.  I'm currently on cosmetic shopping ban and will be so till June this year.  Trust me, I have ample of things to blog about with my huge collection of skincare and cosmetics that's about to spill out from my cupboard.

*Sorry about the pic, had to rely on my iPhone for now as there's some issue with my camera's SD card.  It looks like it's time for me to buy a new one @.@

Here's the items:

• Body Shop Liquid Eyeliner: This was my very first liquid eyeliner gifted to me by a friend.  I like it cause it doesn't smear and it stayed on my eyelids for the longest time.  However, after a few months, it was giving me a bit of a weird feeling, where my eyelids seemed heavy when I have it on.  I stopped using it for a while now but somehow in all my binnings, this seemed to be hidden well till now.
• SiklyGirl Duo Eye Shadow 10 Gold Emerald: Again, another one of my very first beauty purchase.  I remember buying this as I was wanting to try putting on make up for a wedding dinner.  Works well, but because of my oily eyelids, the colors fades off quite quickly.  This was chucked aside and I stopped using it.  Time for me to say goodbye to it now.

(crazy it seems, I'm chucking them one by one as I'm writing this post =D)

•  ianti Luxe Jewelry Pact Powder (Dark Beige): Oh, the horror! I just realised that I've never blogged about this pact powder.  Lovely item for it's price (less than Rm20 if I remember correctly).  I was quite taken aback when I first tried it because the SA recommended me Dark Beige.  I'm actually quite fair and so usually I go for something lighter.  However, the colour matches my skin well and it works well as a foundation powder.  I tend to reach out for it because I'm lazy like that =P.  I'm not sure if ianti is still around because I don't really see it anywhere.  The branch in Times Square which I used to frequent has closed down since last year.  
• ianti Luxe Jewelry Blusher (#04 - Sexy Pink):  What can I say, love the colour and the softness of it when applied on my cheeks.  Downside of this is, the colour fades off rather quickly, around 2 hours.  I had to throw it away because the packaging was plastic and the cover broke.  
• Maybelline Clear Smooth Minerals Instant Skin Perfecting Cream with Micro-Minerals (BB cream): Man, what a mouthful.
• L'oreal Derma Genesis  Cellular-Youth Creator Pore Minimising Smoother Gel Cream: There goes another one.
• b.liv by cellniq Off with Those Heads Pro Sebum Gel: This took me forever to finish because I slack in between wayyy too much.  However, it still works well even though I stopped using it  for a period of time. 
• Etude Sun Guard Natural Covering Color Case SPF 42
• Skin79 The Oriental Gold BB Cream and Super + Beblesh Balm Trip Function: Lovely when applied on the skin but it's quite thick.  Does get oily after about 6 hours.  Nonetheless, the skin continue to look good after blotting.  It's said to have whitening effect but I could not see any effects from using it.  I tend to use my BB Cream as foundation and not on its own.
• Empro Diamond Black Eyeliner
• Vaseline Healthy Sunblock: Am now using my second one!  
• Etude House Collagen Moistfull Emulson: Nice on the skin.  Not sure of its efficacy as this is just a test tube.  Wish the bottle would be made in a way where it's easier to be poured out as the liquid is slightly thicker than water and tends to bunch (can they do that?) at the top.  I had to tap it onto my palm for the liquid to come out (sometimes it gushes out and I would end up having too much).  Then again, this is a free sample.

Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion

I think most people would've gotten the bottle of Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion one way or the other.  I am, of course, of no exception.  I've gotten mine a while back and it took me a while to realise that I have yet to blog about it.  Woah... maybe that's the result of reading numerous blogs talking about this item.

Likewise the introduction.  Apparently this item is so hot that 1 is being sold every 4 seconds.  That means, these are flying off the shelf even as you are reading this blog (you counting time now?).  This item, manufactured by Rohto Hadalabo, contains Super Hyaluronic Acid (SHA), which is known for its capacity to lock in and retain moisture and is said to result in elastic, young-looking skin.  Now, that's where the promise "one drop locks up an ocean" is birthed from.

Before I go on, I really have to say this.  I love the simplicity that comes with the design.  Truly, I do.  The clear see through bottle allows me to see how much I have left, thus cutting the need of me running out of the item (then again, this lasts me like forever! I am still using my first bottle even after one year).  The bottle cap is designed to allow me to just tilt the bottle and out comes the sufficient amount of the lotion for my whole face. I don't have to worry about spilling or pouring out too much (can you imagine the amount of patting in order to get the lotion onto your skin if there's too much?).  Nor do I have to worry about having a bottle that's all distorted (sometimes I get distracted by the distorted look of my tubes or bottles... silly me, really)

Now what about the lotion.  It is clear, slightly runny and scent-free(yay to that!).  It really does look like water, albeit slightly thicker/denser.  For me, as mentioned earlier, I only need on drop for my entire face, focusing on my cheeks as they tend to be drying.  What I do is I start patting around my cheeks area before moving to my forehead and chin.  Careful to pat and not slap yourself (I have to admit, sometimes I get overzealous and ended up slapping myself... painful lei).  It does take about a minute or so for it to be fully absorbed (bearing in mind, one drop for me).  There were times the lotion came out slightly more than usual, or there are times when my skin felt as though it is not absorbing as quickly as normal, I'll just lie down on my bed and continue to pat until it turned sticky.  From thereon, I know it's gonna be fully absorbed into my skin and so I'll just continue to pat for a few moments more.  It's awesome feeling.

I'll be honest, I only use this at night and these days, on nights where I am not so lazy.  That's the main reason this bottle lasts me soooo long.  I don't really have the patience to be patting it all the way but this is what I reach out for when I feel that my skin is really dry up.  I always wake up the next day with a moisturised skin.  It's a yay when that happens.  Sometimes, what I'll do is I'll pat this in and add a sheen of moisturiser or I'll grab my sleeping mask and top it up (especially the cheeks area) when my skin is utterly dry and cracking.  I have to say, my skin turns beautiful the next day!

I did an experiment where I soak two pieces of my cotton and stuck them onto my cheeks for about 15 minutes.  After removal, I could instantly feel that my skin is "replenished".  This, I am certain, will be something that I will do on alternate days to keep my cheeks nourished and bouncy!

I am already tempted to buy the second bottle to keep but am resisting it because I have no idea when I would finish my existing bottle.  Madness really, but an utterly "smart" lotion that one must have with them.

Do you remember the ad?  Check it out below:

Binnings for Sept/ Oct 2011

There's quite a number of things that I binned for the month of Sept and Oct! I'm so happy with it.  I think being one that likes to buy skincare and cosmetics, we rarely do get to finish everything (well, most things I would gather).  It is considered substantial for me cause I am not a heavy user of skincare and cosmetics (if there's such a thing).

Organic Aid Vitamin E Moisturizing Cream
Used it back in early September.  You can read the review here.

FOTE Block Up SPF50
This is the small bottle that I finished up rather quickly.  A good item for me to travel with but something that I would forego for the odd smell.  Might need a bit of a touch up on that one.  Check out the review here.

Benefit That Gal Face Primer
I left one on its own for a while and decided to use it all up.  It's my beloved primer so I was sitting on it for a while. Haha.. now it's gone! Sob sob

TheFaceShop Nail Nutrition
Had to throw this out as it's been sitting there for too long.  Check out the difference in colour here.  Looks kinda scary to me.. urgh...

Garnier Aqua Defense Intensive Moisturising Essence Gel
This is my second tub of it and it's all gone!  Good item for great price.  Check out the review here.

Loreal Hydrafresh Anti-Shine All day Hydrating & Mattifying Gel
Check it out here.  Btw, there was a warehouse sale and I got another one cause I wanted to try it with its non anti-shine version. Yeaps, I got that too!

Laneige Water Sleeping Face Pack
I didn't do a review on this, but this is something that was gifted to me by Plusizekitten as I went to celebrate her birthday!  It's a fun to use item but something that I cannot use every night because it broke me out! Ergh, I think it's probably too moisturising for my skin.  I used it once a week to twice a week but not routinely.  Just something that I reach out and grabbed to use when my skin's a little too hydrating.  All's fun =D  Not something I would go n purchase full size though eventhough there's great reviews of it out there.

Vaseline Healthy Sunblock Water Resistant UV Proctection Lotion SPF30
One of the good value sunblock out there.  I finished up in one month's time.  Heavy usage on this one.  I checked the price and it's valued at RM20++ now instead of RM10.  Thank God I decided to grab a few more before the price jack.

Loreal Hydrafresh Anti-Shine All day-Hydrating & Matifying Icy Gel

This Loreal Hydrafresh Anti-Shine All day-Hydrating & Matifying Icy Gel is something that I bought months ago.  I've been sitting on it and decided to pick it up again and share about it.

 Here's some description of the items.  What really caught me was the fact it's matifying and it's Icy Gel claim.

To be honest, I'm not very sure of my thoughts on this item.  I am kinda sitting on the fence right now.  Why?  Because it's awesome to use when your skin's well hydrated and under make up, because it's matte and I don't have to worry about my moisturiser competing with my make up to make my face glow too much (you know what I mean right?)

However, there are days when my skin's so so and I used this, and I ended up with flaky skin!  It does not hydrate my skin well enough to ensure that it's good and dandy on those days.  I did manage to make it work though, my adding another layer of a different moisturiser before I apply this.  However, that means I rarely reach out for this product because, heck, if I am using another moisturiser that works, why do I apply another one?  Still, I do use it, as I mentioned above, on days where I don't want my face to turn overly oily on me.

I do like the icy gel feeling when applied.  Then again, I have to make sure that I don't apply it too near my eyes, otherwise I'll get the stinging.

Looks like this ain't going to be an item that I would re-purchase.

Updated on 23rd Nov 2011: Okay, I found a good use for this item.  Recently, some weddings came up and there was always a need to make up.  I used this as the moisturiser before my make up and viola, it kept my skin oil-free during the weddings.  Love it when used for slightly heavier than usual make up.  Dislike it when I use it on everyday basis with very light make up.

Organic Aid Vitamin E Moisturising Cream

I usually tend to avoid cream products as I have oily combination skin and creams tend to break me out.  However, due to some strange reason, my skin was getting rather dry and it was a painful experience because I was breaking out due to the dryness!  Saying I was at loss was an understatement.  I'm still trying to figure out the cause of the break out but I was more active in trying to look for a product that would help me overcome the dryness.  I'm pretty sure that once the dryness give way to being moistured, the breakouts will cease.

On the other side, I do know that Vitamin E is good for the skin to help the skin.  I've read here that some of the other benefits of Vitamin E are these:

• vitamin e products help reduce the appearance of stretch marks
• vitamin e can help prevent the appearance of age spots
• it helps maintain the skin’s oil balance during the cleansing process
• it reduces transepidermal water loss from skin and strengthens the skin’s barrier function

Based on this, it would seem that Vitamin E does function well when applied onto the skin.

I noticed this Organic Aid product for eons, but because of my aversion to cream products, I never did get my hands on it.  That is, until recently (so you could imagine the desperation that I have to resort to creams due to the dryness and tightness of my skin).  I am thankful that they do produce two sizes, so that I can grab the smaller one to try.

Here's the description:
New vitamin E moisturizing cream with amino acids is a  gentle and effective skin-care product that contains vitamin E to promote and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion. And amino acids to help restore nutrients to rough skin. Our special formula also includes natural emollients for added softness, plus moisture replenishing humectants to protect against the sun and wind. One application of Vitamin E Moisturizing Cream will soothe and refresh dry, rough skin and leave it creamy-smooth and naturally beautiful.

And here's the ingredients:
Deionized Water, Glycol Monostearate, Propylene Glycol Monostearate, Diglycol Stearate, Triethanolamine, Hydrolized Amino Acids, Vitamin E (1000 I.U. d-Alpha Tocopheryl) and Fragrance.

I did a check online and found that their main website does not contain anymore skin care, rather, only their hair care and hand care sets.  I guess they are phasing out?  Not very sure though.

It's stated on the bottle that it's non-sticky and non-greasy, which to me, is quite rare given that it is a cream product.  We all do know that there is some level of greasiness and stickiness when it comes to a cream product.

 However, to my surprise, Organic Aid Vitamin E Moisturising Cream really is as it claims.  The initial feel of this product is that it feels thick and a little hard to apply.  It seems to be absorb to the skin right immediately, unlike other creams and lotions which you would need to massage them to get your skin absorb it.  There seemed to be a layer of film during the initial few seconds (or minutes?) but right after that there isn't any stickiness or greasiness, as said earlier.  I am rather impressed by it.

After a couple of weeks of consistent application day and night (seriously, I had to use it during the day cause my skin was that bad), I find my skin is getting better.  I look more refreshing and was regaining the fair and unblemished look.  Alright, there are still a bit of scarring on my skin that has yet to fade off from the breakout, but it's good to say the least that I don't have crazy breakouts anymore, except those that tend to pop up during that time of the month.  My skin also feels smoother and softer.  I quite like touching my skin nowadays... haha.. crazy I know.

I find that my skin is not as oily as last time too, which is good because I don't have to keep wiping my face to get rid of the oil.  Looks like the Vitamin E is working eh?  I am truly happy with this Organic Aid Vit E Moisturising Cream.

I will definitely re-purchase this item once I'm done with it.  For RM14.88 (or less during promotion), it is worth the purchase.

Charcoal Black Heal Pharm Cleaner Pack

I bought this quite a while back, not long after I finished my previous one.  I've not seen it previously and I thought, at the price of RM9.80 per box, it is decent enough.  There are two types, but I only bought this charcoal black to try.

I used to use Biore's one (who doesn't??) and I have to say that this is much better than Biore's!  Some of the differences:

1. Thickness.  This Heal Pharm is much thicker.  It's kinda like 2 layers of Biore in one.  One side is black (Charcoal) and the other side is white.  Got quite a nice "feel" to its thickness, if you know what I mean.

2. Adhesive.  This definitely works much better than Biore!  I know it sounds gross, but I betcha we will darn satisfied when we see the strip being filled every nook and corner!  Haha... okay, grossness aside, this really works.  I definitely feel a lot cleaner around my nose once I've peeled it off.  Ah, the satisfaction...

(I know it's gross, but picture paints a thousand words right? =p)

3.  Messiness.  With Biore, the area around my nose turns black.  I always have to resort to rubbing it to ensure that all the adhesive and the black colour does not stay on my nose.  Do you have that?  But with this, it's rather clean.  Albeit there's still a little bit of adhesive or black that stays on the nose sometimes, it's definitely clean!

I do love this, but I don't use it very often, probably about once every 1 and half to 2 weeks.  It's because it does its job well, and I usually feel my pore's a little clogged around that time as well.

Guess what? I've already did a stock up! =p There was a promotion ongoing whereby 2 boxes are going for RM17.  I bought the white one to try instead.  I think this is quite a hit item because I went to visit a couple of Watsons around my area and both have totally sold off their charcoal series.  Amazing.

Guess what I got in my mailbox!

I came home from church today (yes, on a Sunday) and I saw this package on the table!  Without bothering to check who it was to, I ripped it opened and I saw this!

It was quite silly really! I somehow knew that it was for me, and it was only after ripping off the package that I check and see if it's directed for me @.@ I know, I can be quite lame that way sometimes! Haha... But OH MY!!! Hada Labo sent me these few goodies and I'm honestly very, very happy!

The items included in the packaging are:

     Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion 9ml

     AHA-BHA Face Wash 12g

     Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Cream 3ml

I've been very tempted to give the Face Wash a try and was wanting to purchase it when I realised that I still have another Facial Wash at home that I got from Nature Republic.  Plus the fact that I'm still on a ban, I resisted.  Such a lovely surprise!!  Hada Labo, you really just made my day!

I gave in recently and purchased the Hada Labo Moisturising Lotion (remember I said I allow myself the lee way to make two purchases?? hehe..I made them within a vast of 2 days because both items finished one after the other =p)  Will review it after I used it a few months down the road ya.

Allow me to digress a little.  I recently had to change my phone due to my careless (I dropped it and the phone was turning on and off on its own, so I went to DiGi, waited a few hours and got an iPhone 4 =D  It's my latest toy (I do love them, but they are so expensive to play with) and I downloaded this application called Instagram.  It functions like a twitter for photos.  Below is a picture that I took of the freebies with using Earlybird.  

Review: Garnier Aqua Defense Intensive Moisturising Essence Gel

A few months back my skin was looking rather dull, making me feeling rather dull as well.  I've tried many different types of lotions and etc and I even have pimples popping up! Oh my goodness!  So a crazy thought hit me that says, maybe my skin is not moisturised enough.  So I started scouting for bargain goodies that contains ample moisturising entities and keep my skin plump without the need for splurging (was going broke from shopping!)  Having read about the Garnier Aqua Defense in a few blogs; I decided to give it a try.  I went for the Aqua Defense  Intensive Moisturising Essence Gel because my skin tends to be oily and I don't heart putting creams on my skin.

My very first question when I opened the container is, "eh, it looks watery...".  I guess that's because I was expecting it to be slightly thicker and more gel-like.  Nonetheless, it doesn't seem dodgy.  It's green in colour by the way.  Hehe.. does it turn you into incredible Hulk?  Worry not, cause it sinks right into your skin rather quickly.  I do encounter a slight stinging session when I applied it, but that feeling disappears rather quickly too.  Plue who reviewed this item states that it contains Alcohol Denat, so I guess that's why my skin felt the stinging session.   The best part is that it doesn't feel oily at all.  I have combi skin, and totally dis-heart those thick greasy feeling on the skin.  Most of those cream based products just breaks me out and I really really hate that.  This just feel right and nice.

I totally love the fact that it works!  It does leave my skin more supple and I daresay my skin was looking all the more fresher since I started using it.  On days when my skin felt a little down, I use this as a sleeping mask.  I will apply it thicker (no fear cause it does sink into the skin rather quickly) and then off I am to bed.  Next day I will wake up with my skin supple and bouncy.

Is this a re-buy?  I will, but my itchy hands want to have a touch of its sister product too, L'Oreal Hydrafresh Aqua Essence Gel =p

L'Oreal Exchange Your Old/Used Day Moisturiser for a New White Perfect Day Cream

Have you got any old or used moisturiser with you?  Looking to try the Loreal New White Perfect Day Cream?  Don't miss out on the promotion that's happening right now.

From 25/10/10 - 31/10/10 10.30am - 2pm

Exchange your old/used day moisturiser* for a New White Perfect Day Cream 50ML

Location: Watsons Sg Wang, Watsons KLCC, Watsons Kinta City, Watsons City Square, Watsons Gurney, Watsons Time Square.

*Only for Non-L'Oreal Paris products (min 40ml).

I've got mine de.  Have you got yours?

Halfway Thru the Month & My Purchases are increasing!

I usually pace myself with my purchases, but this month, it's on an overhaul! They aren't that exhorbitant, but still! Woah, I'm going nuts with shopping eh.. and it's only half a month passed, there's another half to go. I seriously need to go slow =.=