Review: Melvita Damask Rose Floral Water

Melvita Damask Rose Floral Water 200ml MYR 122

Many of us are still oblivious to the fact that toner is an essential in our skin care regime. I used to be one of them. I would rather spend more money on serums, oils or even cleanser, than investing in a good toner. Ever since I started using oil, toner/ floral water has since become an important step in prepping up my skin before any oil or serum applications. 

I was a long time user of  Dermalogica's Active Toner and later, changing to an anti-aging mist. I was, in a few months back, using a hyaluronic and collagen toner from Harahuda, in which I would not want to talk much about it because it didn't make my skin look any better.

My skin was dry, blotchy and dull during my time with the Harahuda toners and I personally couldn't stand it much longer and began my search for a new toner. Hence, I purchased the above toner because I was pretty desperate and they were having some good promotion at that time.

Product Description

Certified organic and fair trade, our floral water is obtained by steam distillation of fresh Rosa Damascena petals. Our unique extraction method enables us to obtain a floral water that is particularly rich in active ingredients, making it a naturally powerful formula. With its fresh, delicate scent, our floral water helps to combat dehyration and regenerate the skin.

Ingredients

Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Water, Polyepsilon-lysine, Citronellol, Geraniol, Eugenol.

My Experience

When I first tested this floral water at the back of my hand at the store, I was quite impressed with the delicate rose smell and the cooling feeling it gave. Back at home, I was equally impressed as I did at the store, as I felt this preps up my skin. I feel refreshed and my senses, relaxed. Like any other toner or floral water, my choice of application is misting my entire face with it and gently tapping it all over.

Mind you, don't expect to see immediate results with this. As any other natural products, it takes time to see and feel the difference. It took me slightly over a week's time to actually see minor difference on my skin. Fast forward after 3 months of usage, my skin looked balanced and my cheeks area, which are prone to dryness, does not feel dehydrated or 'tight'.

At one time, I was sick and you know how it is when you are at that stage, the face is the first thing one would notice if something is wrong with you.Very surprisingly, I didn't look much like a dead rat. Though there were slight unevenness on the the skin tone, my face looked hydrated and balanced. It's weird but I guess this floral water may have lend some contributions to the balance.

While I do not wholly suggest that this floral water acts alone in putting hydration back to my skin, but I can safely say that this greatly aids in the absorption of oils and serums. 

Overall

Though this floral water helped to bring some hydration back to my skin, I personally feel that I can purchase any other floral water of this standard from online ( iHerb, Garden of Wisdom ), at a far more cheaper price than Melvita. While it is good toner/floral water to have and last pretty long too, likely I won't be repurchasing it. 

This item was purchased by me for my personal purposes. This review is based on my honest and personal experience with this product and is not influenced by any parties.

Review: Alterna Bamboo Luminous Shine Shampoo

Alterna Bamboo Luminous Shine Shampoo 250ml MYR  73.00

My quest for a shampoo of 'Holy Grail' status has been a tedious search. Just when I thought I have finally found 'The One', it starts to play havoc to my scalp and hair after 2 weeks.  Is it just me or everyone feels the same when it comes to finding the right shampoo? Personally, searching for the right shampoo seems more difficult than finding the right skincare. 

Anyhow, I've heard much about Alterna Bamboo through bloggers and I was so intrigued about it that I finally bought it when I was shopping at Sephora.

What it says?

This gentle sulfate-free cleanser combines strenghtening eco-certified Bamboo Extract & shine-amplifying Indian Gooseberry for healthy radiance. Freshly cleansed hair is left moisturized, shiny and brilliantly glossy. Formulated with Colour Hold technology. Safe for colour treated hair. Free of: Sulfates, Parabens, Gluten, Sodium Chloride, Phthalates and Synthetic Colour.

My Experience

Shampoo is of a clear gel and quite fragrantly fragranced, a bit too sweet for my liking though. The shampoo foams very minimally, which is a good indicator of minimal or zero harsh surfactants. 

During my first try, my hair was super oily at the scalp and I need to do a second wash, just to make sure that it is clear at the sebum. However, after rinsing, my hair feels awfully squeaky clean and straw-y. Not a nice feeling at all. My normal hair conditioner helped a bit to detangle my hair but I don't feel that my hair was nice to touch. Blow drying actually made my hair look and feel worse with this shampoo.

The second trial was a bit better. I skip the second wash and instead of using my normal conditioner, I proceed with my hair mask. And...it made a LOT of difference to my hair. Not only does my hair looked tamed, it gives me a nice body, volume and feel to it. 

After using this alternatively with another regular shampoo, I personally find that this shampoo helps to balance my hair and scalp. I experienced less flake and itchiness and ironically, it manages to control the oil secretion of my hair. Very weird indeed.

Overall

This shampoo is not suitable for everyday use, as it tends to make my hair squeaky and straw-y looking. Ironically, it worked fantastically well when paired with my hair mask and manages to control my oil secretion when used alternately with another regular shampoo. Funnily, this is the only shampoo that gives me a nice volume and body to my hair.

This item was purchased by me for my personal purposes. This review is based on my honest and personal experience with this product and is not influenced by any parties.

Review: Bioderma Crealine Solution Micellaire

Bioderma Crealine Solution Micellaire 500ml Euro 21.00 for 2 bottles

Yes, this is the famed cleansing water from Bioderma and I finally, I got to try out this product! In Asian countries, they go by the name of Bioderma Sensibo but in Europe, they call it Bioderma Crealine. I am not going to write much about the company's background, nor the product description as they are plenty introductions over the web over this product. I am just going straight to the ingredients and my experience.

Ingredients

Water, Peg-6 caprylic/capric glycerides, glycerin, polysorbate 20, peg-40 hydrogenated castor oil, ammonium lactate, plantago major leaf extract, mannitol, xylitol, rhamnose, frutooligo saccharides, propylene glycol, disodium edta, cetrimonium bromide.

My Experience

Bioderma Crealine is a micellaire solution or cleansing water, which is basically a face and eye make-up remover for sensitive skin. Using cleansing water as my first step of my double cleanse process is a norm for me. I was a longtime user of L'occitane's Fresh Face Water before Bioderma Crealine came into the picture.

Strong Cleansing Power

The solution is quite easy to use; just pour some unto your cotton pad and gently swipe across your face or eyes. And voila......everything is off! Simple as that. If I need to compare, Bioderma removes all dirt and makeup more powerfully than L'occitane's. 

Though Bioderma Crealine works exceptionally well in removing makeup from your face, I can't positively say it works well for the eyes. Yes, it works great, only if you are removing basic eyeshadows. For eyeliners and mascaras, it has its reservations. It works quite well on removing Clio and Kiss Me Heroine liquid eyeliners but did not budge at all on my Majolica Majorca Glamour On Mascara. Many have said that Majolica Majorca's mascara's are hard to remove but I find that it removes well only on oil based eye makeup removers.

Good for Sensitive Skin

I find that Bioderma is really good for those with sensitive skin as personally, I do not find it irritating or drying to my skin. It does not irritate my eyes either! In fact, I find my skin feeling comfortable and refreshed, after every use.

Overall

This quickly replaces my L'occitane Fresh Face Water as I find that not only the cleansing power is more superior,  it very economical to use too. I started using Bioderma since mid July and till now, my bottle is still 3/4 full! Plus, the price is more reasonable too. The only downside is that it is not available in Malaysia. Boo...So if anyone is going to France, don't ask them for the Eiffel Tower miniature, ask for this instead!  

This item was purchased by me for my personal purposes. This review is based on my honest and personal experience with this product and is not influenced by any parties.

Review: Ren F10 Smooth and Renew Mask

Ren F10 Smooth and Renew Mask 50ml GB Pounds18.00

I have always wanted to try Ren's products....but, the prices in Malaysia are pretty steep. However, if we order direct from Ren's UK website, the prices and discounts made it a reasonable purchase. Coincidentally, I had a relative visiting UK at that time, I had them send my orders to their hotel, just to take advantage of the free UK delivery.

Product Description

Formulated to gently exfoliate and detoxify, this gel mask will leave the complexion visibly vibrant, smooth and toned.

Ingredients

My Experience

I have heard great reviews of their Glycolatic Radiance Renewal Mask and was very eager to try that. But seeing that I have sensitive skin, I opted with this instead as this is the mild version of the Glycolatic mask. 

As pictured, this mask comes with a muslin cloth, which to be used to wipe off the mask. 

Well thought packaging

Ren's packaging has always been fascinating and I like that pliable plastic inside the plastic container which compresses out every product to minimise wastage. 

I particularly like that they provide a cap to close the little pump! This helps the product to retain its freshness.

Sticky Texture

The mask itself is very thick, smells and feels alike a texture of a "marmalade jam". It is rather sticky when applied and the pasty texture made it hard to apply on the skin evenly. You can either use your fingers but in my case, I use my trusty facial brush. Upon application, I was glad that I didn't experience any tingling or burning sensation. It actually feels comfortable.

Works as good as an exfoliator

The instructions given was to apply in generous amount, leave it for 10 minutes, pat and lift with fingertips and using the dampen muslin cloth to gently wipe off the mask. Lastly, rinse skin with warm water.

Honestly, the "pat and lift with fingertips" was a redundant move. I can't lift the mask using my fingertips because it is too sticky and thick. However, removing it with the dampen muslin cloth actually acts as an exfoliating process, which later, makes my face feels clean and very smooth to touch. This also makes my skin absorbs serums or facial oils readily well.  This mask is for brightening and skin renewal, and I do see some mild brightening on my skin. Though my skin feels very finely exfoliated, I do not feel that this mask gives me any extra hydration. 

Mild allergic reaction 

Despite making my face feels clean and smooth, and a little brighter, I don't think that I am able to use this frequently as I noticed I developed some very tiny bumps around my chin area 2 days after. Any bumps on my skin is usually a sign of allergy reaction and in this case, this is a mild one.

Overall

This is mainly an exfoliating and skin renewal mask and I would have liked it more if this mask provide some hydration action. Sadly, I am restricting the use of this mask to once every 2 weeks, due to the mild allergic reaction, which I got from this product.

This item was purchased by me for my personal purposes. This review is based on my honest and personal experience with this product and is not influenced by any parties.

Review: Phytobaume Colour Protect Express Conditioner

Phytobaume Colour Protect Express Conditioner 150ml Euro 10.90

Conditioning my hair comes naturally for me after shampooing. I have thick, volumious Asian hair and if I miss this step, my hair goes frizzy and could be quite dry at times. Blow drying my hair is an absolute must for me because my hair would take AGES to be fully dried! It is pretty understandable to see the need to condition my hair as my frequent blow drying could further dry out and damage my hair.

Since I was impressed with the Phyto shampoo range, trying out their hair conditioners was a naturally easy decision.  I zoomed in on this, which offers protection on colour-treated hair.

Review: Kiss Me Heroine Make Smooth Liquid Eyeliner

Kiss Me Heroine Make Smooth Liquid Eyeliner 0.4 ml MYR 49.90

( This is not an organic/natural based product )

Eyeliners are my thing and are my staples in my makeup routine. I wear glasses, so for more emphasis on my eyes, I much prefer them to mascaras. Mascaras do give me smearing problems because my eye area sweats easily.

I have the 'most oily lids..ever' and I can't use pencil eyeliner because it would smudge terribly on me. The only eyeliner that can last a little longer on my lids are the liquid ones. My first was Lancome Artliner. I love the tip and it's easy for me to draw a nice line but it does not last long on my lids. The most is 2 hours. Come Clio, which I thought is great. I love the intensity of the liquid pen and the gelpresso but it still gives me panda eyes. 

I was at the point where I thought no eyeliner in the world will be able to withstand my oily ( and sweaty ) lids..until I heard of Kiss Me. When I browse through the internet, most claim that this is smudge, sweat, sebum-proof. The results are almost on par with the award winning K-Palette 1 Day Tattoo Eyeliner, except that the pigmentation in Kiss Me is more intense. I was really torn between the two and decided with Kiss Me first.

Dealing With T-Zone and Dry Cheeks

Image from here

When I first started this blog, I was dealing with dry and dehydrated skin. The following year, my skin was fine but the sensitivity increased. Fast forward to present, I am currently dealing with over production of oil on my T-zone area ( forehead, nose and chin ) where else, both my cheeks area are dry.Call it hormonal imbalance or seasonal changes but one gotta deal with it quick to balance up the area or it may get worse.

Make some changes in skincare routine

I am a loyalist and I seldom change my routine or skincare products unless my skin calls for it. Because of the current situation I am facing, I did some tweaking, just so to keep my face balanced.

Previous Routine

Morning : Cleanse ( Tepid water only ) < Toner ( Hyaluronic Based ) < Replenish ( MVO Anti-Aging Oil+ ) < Protect ( MVO Moisturizing Face Screen spf 30 )

Current Routine

Morning : Cleanse ( Mild Cleanser ) < Toner ( Hyaluronic Based ) < Replenish ( Alternate with Day Cream and Face Oil ) < Protect ( MVO Everyday Coverage spf 20 )

Review: Yes! Nurse Protect Your Lovely Hands

Yes! Nurse Protect Your Lovely Hands 50ml MYR 29.90

A few months ago, I was given the opportunity by the lovely peeps from The Love Jars to try one of the products they carry called Yes! Nurse Hand Cream.

I have a history of love-hate relationship with hand creams and honestly, I have yet to find a good brand which is worthwhile to keep. This is why I always rely on my body oils instead to keep my hands supple. Weird but it works for me. When this opportunity arose, I was a bit worried because I am not sure if this is able to meet the expectations I have regarding hand creams. Well, let's see if it does.

Brand

All the best things in life started with a story. Apparently chocolate bars were created by a Doctor and his sons in the early 18th century after using it as a medicinal product. Boy do we wish we they were still prescribing chocolate today! 

We do however have our own unique tale to tell. Yes! Nurse was co-founded by a young paediatric nurse at the beginning of 2009. Having been signed off work with dry, cracked and sore hands, she noticed that many of her colleagues were suffering in the same way. 

Trying numerous hand creams with little or no effect she decided to research and develop a unique formula that actually worked.

Guided by nurses across the UK, she co-founded Yes! Nurse and developed an intensive moisturising hand formula that specifically combats the daily routines faced by nurses.  

Yes! Nurse is now a rapidly growing cult brand and quick becoming a trusted favourite of nurses, busy mums and beauty fanatics alike from across the UK.  Yes! Nurse offers a powerful ‘Super Moisturising’ formula crammed full of essential Omega’s, antioxidants and natural actives –  together designed to soothe, hydrate and revive tired skin all day long.

Source: www.yesnurse.co.uk

Product Description
Yes! Nurse's Hand Formula is a fast absorbing, non-greasy emollient. It actively hydrates and replenishes the skin's natural defences against the harsh effects of constant hand washing.

Directions
Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, dry hands regularly throughout the day, and massage well into the skin for at least 30 seconds.

Ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Mel( Active Manuka Honey ), Cetearyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Sucrose Stearate, Panthenol ( Vit B5 ), Sweet Almond Oil, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Phenoxyethanol, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycine Soja, PEG 100 Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Passiflora Edulis Seed (Passionflower) Oil, Punica Granatum Seed (Pomegranate) Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Parfum, Tocopheryl Acetate( Vitamin E ), Salix Alba ( Willow Bark ) Extract, Citric Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Limonene, Coumarin, Linalool.

My Experience

I was greeted with this lovely sight when I open the package! I find that the little gestures and effort from The Love Jars is just lovely and it does make the receiving customer feels warm and appreciated.

Cute packaging and illustration!

The consistency of the hand cream is semi-thick, with a lovely mild 'baby-powdery' scent. As advised, I use a pea-sized amount and massage it well into my skin. I am surprised that it doesn't leave my hands feeling tacky or sticky. It just leaves a thin film of protection, which then slowly sinks in after several minutes. I am not sure if others have the same experience as me, I had experiences with the L'occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream, which leaves my hands feeling tight and uncomfortable ( even with generous amount ).  I am glad that this does not leave your hands feeling tight.

My hands are subjected to constant washing, sometimes up to 5-6 times a day with a disinfectant liquid. Because of this, my hands are always dry and tight and no amount of lotions or hand creams I have used were able to give me the nice, moist hands. So this is where my body oil comes into play. It is the only way for me bring back moisture to my hands.

Now with this hand cream, I was taken by surprise on how it replenishes moisture back to my hands almost immediately, making my hands feeling comfortable. However, it does not give you the whole moisture protection with just one use and the feeling would just slowly wear off after 2 hours. In my case, I need to reapply after 3-4 hours to keep my hands feeling comfortable. One thing I like about this hand cream is that it does not hinder your everyday routine. Some hand creams would often leave an overly slip, due to silicones, which makes it a hassle just to grab things with your hands. 

Overall

This hand cream definitely does what it says and has given me protection to my hands for the past one month or so. This is a keeper for me and has met the expectations I have on hand creams. If I have to gripe about something, well...it's the size! I wish these will come in bigger tubes as with the existing size, it will last me to 3 months max. Apart from my gripe on the size, I may have found the hand cream, which is worthwhile for me to invest in the long run.

I am glad to finally see companies like The Love Jars, who are committed to bringing in good, interesting and award-winning products to our shores. We need this in our country! Do visit them at www.thelovejars.com

This item was sent to me by PR for review consideration. This review is based on my honest and personal experience with this product and is not influenced by any parties.

Review: Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Usage Dry Oil

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse 100ml ( Limited Edition )

Euro 19.90 ( Est MYR 82.40 )

This item is one of the popular 'must-have' items should one visit any french pharmacies in France. Due to its immense popularity, it is pretty obvious that I must give it a try, especially when I am a lover of oils.

Product Description

Huile Prodigieuse is a dry oil with unique superactivated formula combining 30% Precious Plant Oils and Vitamin E to nourish, repair and soften face, body and hair. Face and body are left beautifully soft and moisturised, whilst hair is supple and glossy. This oil is suitable for all skin and hair types regardless of age ( from 36 months onwards )

Ingredients

Coco-caprylate, dicaprylyl ether, macadamia ternifolia seed oil, sweet almond oil, hazel seed oil, camellia oleifera seed oil, parfume, tocopherol, borago officinalis seed oil, olive fruit oil, sunflower seed oil, roesmary leaf extract, hypericum perforatum flower/stem extract, tomato fruit extract, benzyl salicylate, linalool, limonene, citronellol, geraniol.

*Bold: Natural Origin

Review: Nature Republic Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel

Nature Republic Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel 300ml MYR 32.90

When I was down with eczema last year, my TCM practitioner recommended me to use pure aloe vera sap on my affected area. I stand today, healed from my eczema woes and I can honestly say that it WORKS! That, to me, has been the best discovery to date. ( Read more about it HERE )

It has since been a norm to me to use it to treat any skin related issues I encounter, be it pimple, dryness, or contact dermatitis. However, I only have one pot of my precious Aloe Vera plant at my home and it breaks my heart every time if I have to cut one of it's stems. Anyone who have a pot of Aloe Vera plant knows that it is painstakingly long for it to grow into full size.

To save my precious Aloe Vera from further agony, I went into Nature Republic one fine day and bought a tub of their best selling Aloe Vera Soothing Gel.

Review: Compressed Mask

Trikeel Face Mask 20 pcs MYR 9.90

Compressed mask are actually paper sheet mask in a pill form. There are a lot of these in the market and many used this in replacement of cotton pads for their Lotion Mask regime. I bought this from Sasa,  mainly for the hubs because the cotton pad method did not cover his face entirely. At that time, he was badly tanned because of work and to save his face from peeling, I know I need to do the Lotion Mask on him everyday, at least for the entire week. 

Types of Masques and Usage for Sensitive, Dry, Dehydrated Skin.

Image from source 

I am an advocate for hydration masques and firmly believe it makes a whole lot of difference to your skin condition if you incorporate them in your weekly skincare regime. Hydration, I believe, is the key to flawless skin. Back in 2011, my skin was not at it's best. It has lost the luster, the glow and though I had my regular facials, my skin was still dry and dehydrated. My skin tone was uneven, dull and my pigmentation grew 'darker'.

I decided then, I want a total change, both in my skincare products and routine. I started to incorporate in facial oils, serums, facescreen and exploring different types of masques. This change, has brought many surprises to many, even my facial therapist, stating that my skin looked so much better. The hydration is back...the glow too!

In these two years, amongst the routines and products, there are two from each group that gave me significant results. One was topical Vitamin C and another, diligent use of masques. These two has never failed me. For me personally, no amount of expensive serums or oils, can replace these two. That is why in this post, I am sharing with you simple, yet effective types of hydration masques that worked so well for me. Oh, and don't forget to exfoliate your face first before the masques!

Review: Phytopanama Daily Balancing Shampoo ( Oily Scalp )

Phytopanama Daily Balancing Shampoo ( Oily Scalp ) 200ml MYR 88.00

A couple of months back, I was told by a hairdresser that my scalp is prone to oiliness and that is one of the main causes of my 'on off ' dandruff affair. This new revelation has taken me aback because all the while, I thought my scalp was normal! Anyway, I was advised to use a shampoo, specifically for oily hair, and use it alternately with my normal shampoo.

I have decided to go back to Phyto, since their Phytoapaisant Soothing Treatment Shampoo did quite good for me.

Product Description

Rich in quillaja bark extract, PHYTOPANAMA helps regulate excess sebum production. Quillaja bark is rich in saponins and known for its oil absorbing qualities. Recommended to refresh and purify an oily scalp. PHYTOPANAMA is gentle enough for everyday use. Hair is left fuller and softer.

Ingredients
Quillaja saponaria bark extract, water, disodium laureth cocoamphodiacetate, sodium lauryl sarcosinate, disodium ricinoleamido mea-sulfocuccinate, potassium undecylenoyl hydrolyzed soy protein, cocamidopropyl betaine, zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract, xylitol, junipers communis fruit oil, lactitol, polyquaternium-7, glycerin, fragrance, methychloroisothiazolinone, methylisothiazolinone citric acid.

Allergic Reaction Due to Product Ingredients ( Sensitive Skin )

Image from livestrong.com

Lately, I've been reading and hearing a number of stories about allergy reaction to certain ingredients found in some skin care products. Well, unfortunately, a few days ago, I had my share in one of those unfortunate episodes, thanks to a facial salon. My allergy reaction wasn't as bad as Juli's. Hers was bad and really unfortunate, but I admire her bravery for speaking out and sharing her experience, despite obtaining scars ( both physically and emotionally ) from it.

A few days ago, I went for my regular facial appointment and during that time, they were having some 50% discount on facial services and I decided to try a new facial programme and asked for a recommendation from my therapist. Well, she did and I went through it. Before I go on, I have been a regular with this facial salon for almost 7 years! Personally, I like to stick to one therapist, which I am comfortable with, as they will be able to know my skin better ( know the improvements and the bad as well ). I have recently changed to a new therapist and have been using her for 4 months. ( Please keep in mind, they have a record which indicates which products of theirs I am allergic to ) Since she is new to me, I have been harping to her that I can't use one of their anti-aging range, which is catered for mature clients and have told her that I have allergic reactions to it. She noted it and so far, she has been very careful not to introduce new products to my skin...until a few days ago. 

Review: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque 125ml MYR 130

One of the essential part of my skin care routine are masks. If you are a follower of this blog, you may know that most of my masks are hydrating based. I love to incorporate different kinds of mask in a month, alternating with my yoghurt mask, lotion mask and my normal hydrating mask.

I used to love my Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Mask until recently, I found that they have changed the formula and the new formula contain some ingredients which I don't agree. As I was searching for an alternative, I stumble upon this one from Kiehl's.

Review: Clio's Eyeliner Range

From Top to Bottom: Gelpresso Waterproof Eyeliner Gel Liner in Chic Navy MYR 45.90

Gelpresso Waterproof Eyeliner Gel Liner in Beige Shine MYR 45.90

Waterproof Turnliner Twistturn in Urban Khaki MYR 62.90

Waterproof Pen Liner in Kill Black MYR 55.90

As I have mentioned before, one of my essentials for makeup is my eyeliner. I pretty much stuck with my Lancome Artliner for many many years and never thought of abandoning the ship until I found these. I initially started with the Gelpresso Gel Liner in Chic Navy and the Pen Liner in Kill Black. The Chic Navy had me with one swipe, followed by the Kill Black. And then...they were having some sales at Watson's with 15%-30% Discounts and I knew I had to get more of these!

Gelpresso Waterproof Eyeliner Gel Liner 

Personally, I much prefer liquid eyeliners with felt tip than pencils. I had many bad experiences with the pencils as most it kinda drags your eyelids when you try to draw a good line and most smudges easily, giving you the dreaded panda eyes.

Review: Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream

Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream 30ml MYR 178

After actively using eye creams or serums since 2 years ago, it dawned to me that it is something that one should not neglect. It is essentially as important as your serums or creams for face. Many close friends or family I know, still have not started using eye cream or eye serums because they feel that it is not something important to concentrate on. If you are aware, most people will comment " You looked tired. Is everything ok?" or " You didn't sleep last night ar?" just by looking at your eyes area. They wouldn't look at the condition of your skin and ask those questions, would they?

Most also claim that eye serums or creams are sometimes more expensive than for the face itself. Honestly, I have to agree with them on many 'ridiculously priced' eye creams available in the market. With that comment, it brings me to this item, which I am going to review. Well, you've certainly seen a few reviews I've done under the Antipodes brand and finally, this will be the last lot of product. I bought this ( on a discounted price of course ) when I ran out of my DeVita Eye Cream. I was very, very reluctant to purchase this initially because if the price tag but buckled when given a fair amount of discount.

Review: Neogence Clarifying & Hydrating Make-Up Removing Liquid

Neogence Clarifying & Hydrating Make-Up Removing Liquid 200ml  MYR 26-24 (Discounted )

Of late, I have been putting on make-up and honestly, I enjoy it! I am not those who wears heavy make-up with absolute heavy coverage, but with my essentials like concealer, pressed powder, eyeshadow, blusher and my absolute must: liquid eyeliner. 

Because of my oily lids, I need a heavy duty liner, to last at least for 5 hours. I have found one ( review coming up ) and you know how it is, heavy duty ones requires a good make-up remover to remove it. I used to like Lancome's Bi-Facil makeup remover, which I thought is the only best eye makeup remover in the world! However, I was not keen on the price, hence begin a look out for other alternatives...and I stumbled unto this at Sasa.

Review: Antipodes Divine Face Oil

Antipodes Divine Face Oil 30ml MYR 128.00

Most of those who follow my journey, knows that I love oils and much prefer it than lotions and creams. Ever since I switched to using face oil, my skin has improved significantly in terms of hydration and texture.Though my Marie Veronique Anti-Aging Oil+ has proven as good keeper for me, I am open to other face oil available in the market and the price factor is usually one of my concerns before purchasing.

When I chanced upon Antipodes Divine Face Oil, which I have heard a lot about, I was pleasantly surprised that the price was at a reasonable level and the ingredients looked good as well. I have been using this for more than 3 months now and it is about time for me to do a review on this.

Foot Issues ( Part 3 ): Tips In Choosing The Proper Fitting Shoes

Image from habitusliving.com

Before I started embarking in my journey about my feet issue, I didn't really realised that I have been buying shoes for all the wrong reasons.

The wrong reasons:

• It's trendy and currently fashionable. Everyone is wearing them..so must I.
• It's on sale and cheap.
• It looked sexy and good when I wear them.
• It matched the colour of my outfit.
• Buying an ill appropriate size because it is REALLY nice and it is the last one left.

I guess may of us have fallen into the usual habit, without considering the fitting or comfort of the shoe. I know I have even bought some shoes and left them untouched for more than a year, all because it was on sale. It is the biggest culprit among the other wrong reasons, where we may have bought something which we didn't really need in the first place. Style is often the key to consideration, but it cannot be the only factor.

Coupled with the wrong reasons, I didn't have much idea or knowledge on choosing the fight fit in the right way. I am only armed with the basic since adolescent, which is ensuring that there are at least 1/2 inch space at the toe space and that it is not tight when worn. Little that I realised, I am doing more damage than good to my feet in the long run.

Foot Issues ( Part 2 ): Bunions & Protectors

Image from cqfootclinic.com.au

In this post, I am going to write about another foot condition that I have, which is the issue of bunions or Hallux Valgus. Unfortunately, I've developed them over the years of wearing ill-fitting and tight shoes, and in my case, high heels. Another possibility could be heredity.

As I grew older, walking has became a painful task for me due to the bunions. Because most of my existing shoes are mostly covered ballerina flats with insufficient toe space, the pressure on my bunions and bunionette become more significant, making it red and sore. Sometimes, I resort to band aids to cover my bunions to ease the pain. That helped only for the 1st hour and it needed to be changed again.

Foot Issues ( Part 1 ): My Foot Problems

Image from beauty.about.com

I never really pay attention to my feet problems or even more so, learn about feet problems. What prompted me to really look into it was when one of my nieces have a foot condition called over-pronation or 'flat feet'. 

Off I went for a feet analysis one day, during which I was told that I have mid high arch ( which is not so much of an issue ) and both my feet have bunions ( Hallux Valgus ) problem. I did told them that my knees and heels hurts quite a bit, after walking or even standing for a period of time. But my main problem I want to address are my bunions. I love flats or heels, and most of the time, both my bunions will be sore and red, even when worn for just an hour. I am not sure if many felt the same as I do but....when my feet hurts, I get agitated easily.

Let's look into the explanation of my feet analysis in detail shall we.

Review: Antipodes Hallelujah Lime & Patchouli Cleanser

Antipodes Hallelujah Lime & Patchouli Cleanser 200ml MYR 128

When my current night time cleansing milk from Paul Penders was at the last leg, I had thought of replenishing. Though my face love it, I held my brakes because of the price! It is priced at AUSD 36 ( MYR 117, excluding shipment ) for a mere 120ml. It is expensive for me in the long run and decided to shop for a new one, which leads me to the above.

Quite a mouthful name for a cleanser, eh? What drew me to this cleanser was..... definitely not the price! But it is much cheaper than Paul Pender's. Besides, they were having some promotion and bought it at a cheaper price. So, how was it?

Review: Dermalogica Antioxidant Hydramist

  Dermalogica Antioxidant Hydramist 150ml 

 ( Strawberry.net Price MYR 141 )

Anyone who reads my blog knows that I am a regular user of certain Dermalogica products. My staple from them are the Ultracalming Cleanser and the Skin Hydrating Masque, which is great for my sensitive and dehydrated skin. Their Multi-Active Toner fell out of the love zone when I discovered Hada Labo's Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion. My skin has never been better when I made the switch...which I am glad!

Though I am using that one on a regular basis, I thought of going full fledge on anti-aging products for my night time routine. Now, this is where this Antioxidant mist comes into the picture. When I read the description given on the product, I was sold! Those are the areas which I want to target and I greatly hope that this product will be able to do all that it claims.

Review: Aveda Shampure

Aveda Shampure 1 litre MYR 129

The brand Aveda has been in the market for a fairly long time and though I have heard many great things about this brand, I have never tried any of it's products until recently. Well, the reason I bought this shampoo was because they were having some in-store discounts. Yes, the price is pretty steep but I am willing to try it cos the ingredients are fabulous! 

Shampoos can be a on-off love affair and personally, I find that finding the right shampoo is tough. You can easily fell in love with a shampoo during the first week but hate it the following week. I am not sure if you  guys have the same experience as I do. Read on to see if this shampoo is a long term love affair for me....or not....

Tips for Healthy Scalp to Beautiful Hair

Image from worldsstrangest.com

Chinese New Year is approaching in a weeks time and truth to be told, we want to look great when we meet our relatives and friends. More often than not, many people I know tend to shop for new clothes, store up some CNY goodies and going for a haircut, all done in a week before the new year approaches.  

Well, since we are all set up, let us not forget to look into the health of our hair as well. Below are some tips for a healthy scalp and a good way to prepare before the day approaches.

Secrets to A Glorious Mane

Image taken from limcorp.net

I recently went to a new hairdressing salon for a wash and I got to know one of the senior stylist there. He is very opinionated ( in a good way.. ) and is one of the first stylist that examined my hair scalp in a microscopic manner before washing my hair!

He first asked me how often I wash my hair and what type of shampoo that I use. He gave me a new revelation, that the tiny flakes that I experience is not dandruff...instead it is a accumulation of dirt and oil. He further explained that dandruff are big flakes, where else mine is small. Below are some images that I've  found:

Image from sportsbycolin.com

More often than not, when we experience itchy scalp or dry flakes in the hair, many people believe that they are suffering from dandruff where in actual fact, it is not necessarily the issue. 

Reflections......

Year 2012...wow...how fast the year ended! Nonetheless, it has certainly brought many new adventures in my journey. Apart from discovering new skincare products, I am thankful that I managed to discover new places and fabulous food that year too! However, I've also realised that I didn't get to do as much things which I am passionate about. Oh well, in 2013, I plan to....