REVIEW: Daeng Gi Meo Ri Vitalizing Shampoo

Comes with a convenient pump packaging

~AG~

My bottle of Daeng Gi Meo Ri Vitalizing Shampoo is almost done. I have been using this anti-hair fall shampoo since the end of January. It has been more than 6 months of continued use. Time for me to do a review of this shampoo. It contains fermented herbal extract, which has been weakened by fermentation, to makes the scalp healthier. The reason why I purchased this shampoo is because my hair fall was more than usual. Whenever I washed my hair, I could see clumps of hair on the shower drain. Not only that, when I blow-dry my hair, I can see that many hair strands has dropped onto the floor. Definitely not a good thing for a 20-something lady to see.

As mentioned in the previous post, it is not a cheap shampoo. The retail price in Watsons was S$35. But for that price, this shampoo has lasted me quite well. I do wash my hair everyday because my scalp gets oily if I skip a day of shampooing.
So what can I say about Daeng Gi Meo Ri Vitalizing Shampoo?

Q: Is this shampoo drying?
A: At first, I was also cautious that this shampoo but might be too drying for my frizzy and unruly hair. But after extended use, I did not find that it was more drying than usual shampoo. It does foam up because it has sodium laureth sulfate as an ingredient.

Q: Since it is made of 33% medicinal plants extract, does it smell bad?
A: Honestly, this shampoo does not smell awful at all.  There is a tinge of herbal scent but it is not too overwhelming. My family members did not comment at all about the scent of the shampoo. Overall, is it pleasantly scent for a herbal shampoo.

Q: Did you see any change with your hair fall pattern?
A: After using it for about a week, I noticed that my hair sheds less in the shower and when blow-drying. My hair used to shed easily when I brush my fingers through my hair, but it is noticeably less now.

Q: Was the effects in hair fall pattern long-lasting?
A: When I travel and do not use Daeng Gi Meo Ri Vitalizing Shampoo, I do notice that my hair falls more than usual. So, I can infer that the effect of the shampoo is not a permanent one.

Q: Would you recommend it to those plagued with hair fall or hair loss issues?
A: I will definitely recommend it to those that see their hair falling more than usual. It should help their hair stay stronger.

 Please click my previous post for more details:
NEW BUY: Daeng Gi Meo Ri Vitalizing Shampoo

REVIEW: VDL Tint Bar Triple Shot in Triple Peach and Triple Red

~AG~

Left to Right: 601 Triple Peach and 501 Triple Red

 

Triple-colored tint (Base color, Sub color and Main color)

 

MG bought these lip tints while we were in Korea. She cannot remember the exact price, but recall it to be around KR 14,500 (~S$17). It is great to have a sister who is also a beauty product junkie, we get to share products and feel less guilty about our purchases. :D

MG asked whether I wanted to try these lip tints. Without hesitation, I tried them on. I was AMAZED by the effects of the lip tint.These triple-colored tint is an easy way to create gradient lips. Korean singers and actresses often sport gradient lips. Instead of using multiple lip product to create a gradient lip, all you need is a VDL Tint Bar Triple Shot. The texture of the lip tint is very moisturizing, it feels like a lip balm! I really <3 it! The color of the gradient lip is natural and flattering. VDL Tint Bar Triple Shot is a great product to have to brighten up your lips. I will definitely recommend VDL Tint Bar Trip Shot to everyone. The next time I am in Korea, I will be sure to buy them. :)

NEW BUY: Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser

~AG~

Two bottles of Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser for S$50

The 125ml bottle comes in a squeeze cap instead of pump packaging 

Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser provides effective cleansing for oily, combination or acne-prone skin. Its gentle foaming action removes surface oils, dirt and make-up without leaving your skin dry. 

Watsons was having an offer, S$50 for two bottles of Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser. Each bottle contains 125 ml of product. So, it costs $0.20 for every ml of product. A rather expensive drugstore face wash. In comparison, my current Derma-Rx Foaming Cleanser from DRX Clinic is more pricey. It costs S$40 for 170 ml of product, which results to $0.24 per ml of product.  http://beautyloverssisters.blogspot.sg/2015/05/drx-clinic-journey-part-1.html 

But anyway, decided to try something else for a change. Many years ago (maybe about 5-6 years ago), I tried Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser for Combination to Oily Skin in the States. The Cetaphil brand is very popular with dermatologists for its gentle cleansing on sensitive skin. FYI, Cetaphil cleanser is definitely cheaper in the States than in Singapore. For those of you who are into skincare, you have probably heard about this brand. You might have seen it in magazines and beauty websites. When I tried Cetaphil cleanser before, it was unimpressive. There was nothing special about it. Yes, it was not a harsh cleanser. But at that time, I preferred a face wash that left my skin squeaky clean.
Fast forward seven years later, I am in search of a face wash that will not breakout my sensitive combination skin. As far as I can recall, the Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser was not available in Singapore when I searched for it 5-6 years ago. They only had the Gentle Skin Cleanser. I am happy that they have made Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser available in Singapore now. I cannot wait to try it out. I hope that my skin will appreciate more now, especially since it has been ultra sensitive in recent times. Please stay tuned for my review on Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser. 

REVIEW: Bloom by Roseanne Tang Trial Makeup Class

~AG~

With Nuraishah and Roseanne Tang

 

Last Tuesday, I went for Roseanne's trial makeup class on contouring, blush and highlighting. Her new location is right across from Outram Mrt station, which is super convenient. The class had three other attendees and lasted about 1.5 hours. I like that it was a small class size as she is able to give adequate attention to each person. Basically, she went through the theory of blush, contouring and highlighting. She taught us the basics such as knowing your undertones and skin tone. It is helpful for those who are new to makeup.

After the makeup class, naturally highlighted, contoured and blushed

 

After going through the basics, she did a demonstration on a student, which happened to be the lucky ME! She explained on which brush to use, and how to correctly apply the products (bronzer, blush and highlighter). After the demonstration, each person try to contour, apply blush and highlight their own faces. We highlighted, contoured and applied blush in two ways - one using powder products and another using cream products. The class also taught us on how to contour our nose to make it look slimmer. This was probably the most exciting part of the class for me. During the practical part of the class, she guided us step-by-step on the appropriate brush, color and amount to use. She attentively watched us and helped us whenever we are unsure. She will see how each student is doing, and will guide them on the appropriate application methods. One thing about Roseanne that I like is that she is approachable and non-judgmental. You do not have to be afraid to make mistakes in the class.

Without going into too much details on how the class is, I have to say that I did learn from this trial class. Even though I have seen Youtube videos and read numerous articles on the proper use of blush, bronzer and highlighter, it is a different experience when a live person is guiding me. I am glad I went for the makeup class! There is something new to learn from a professional makeup artist. Plus, I got to try new makeup products from Tarte, Marc Jacobs, Sephora, Ettusais and 13Brushes. I will definitely recommend Bloom By Roseanne makeup classes for those who want to a more practical way to the know-hows of makeup applications. I am thinking of signing up for more makeup classes from Bloom by Roseanne Tang. Please check out her website for more details. http://bloombyroseanne.com/pages/our-classes-workshops 

DRX Clinic Journey Part 4 (Week 13)

Alpha-Beta Gel (S$70)

 

A lightweight colorless liquid to help "peel" my t-zones

My 10 steps skincare regimen

 

~AG~

It has been six weeks since I started on two oral medications (antibiotic + hormone-blocking meds) from Dr. Tsu. Honestly, the medications has not helped improve my skin conditions. My sister, MG, who is known for being brutally honest also said the same thing. It is disappointing that the medications did not show drastic effects.

During my follow-up visit with Dr. Tsu yesterday, he also admitted that my skin did not improve. He informed me to stop taking the antibiotic as I do not have red pimples (acne). My pimples are usually small bumps with or without whiteheads. He told me to continue taking the hormone-block meds, spironolactone, for a prolonged effect. He is prescribing the meds for another 45 days. Most patients will see the results of spironolactone after six-seven weeks but I did not. He also asked whether I was willing to take low-dose accutane as an option. After considering it for a few seconds, I told him that I was not willing, because of the strong side effects. So, he decided to give me another product to my skincare regimen to help with the small pimples on my overhead. The new addition to my skincare regimen is Alpha-Beta Gel. As we get older, it takes longer for our skin to renew. Even though I am only in my late 20s (dare to admit it), I do feel that my skin is not as "responsive" as before. This Alpha-Beta Gel will help peel off the dead skins and prevent clogged pores. Dr. Tsu told me to apply it first only at night for five days; to get my skin used to the product. After that, I will be using the gel morning and night. I hope this new product will help get rid of the small pimples on my forehead.

 

Here are my skincare regimen steps:

1) Milk Cleanser: only at night 
2) Cleanser
3) Toner
4) Comodone Formula 
5) Blemish Formula
6) Alpha-Beta Gel: only at night for now
7) Max-C
8) Hydrator
9) Acne Spot Lotion (ASL): only at night 
10) Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30+: only in the morning

It is a 10 steps skincare routine! It now takes me longer to get ready in the morning, which I do not appreciate. But let us hope it is worth the extra time and effort *cross my fingers*
Please read my other posts below about my experience so far with DRX Clinic:

DRX Clinic Journey Part 1

DRX Clinic Journey Part 2 (Week 4)

DRX Clinic Journey Part 3  (Week 8)

NEW BUY: MUSEE COSME Smooth Body Scrub

~AG~

Saw this while I was in Japan, and was excited to see a brand that I am familiar with, Musee. I believe Musee Cosme is related to Musee Platinum, which is a Japanese hair removal salon. The logo and font colors are similar. I am a big fan of Musee Platinum as it has helped me reduce my underarm hairs. It has shown me desirable results after one year of regularly going for treatment. After the third or fourth treatment, visibly reduction of my underarm hair can be seen. My underarm hairs are becoming less, and the newly grown hair has also become more fine. I used to have to shave my underarms every 3 or 4 days. But now I hardly have to do it at all! It makes my life so much more easier.

More about Musee Cosme Smooth Body Scrub. This product costs me 1,800 Japanese Yen (S$20). It comes with 160 grams of product. It will take me a while to get through this tube as I do not scrub regularly enough. This body scrub has a pleasant floral fruity scent. I cannot wait to try it, especially on my legs. My legs tend to get dry easily, and I hope this scrub can help to keep it smooth. I tried Googling about this product online. But there wasn't much information in English. If you can read Japanese, feel free to click the link for more information. http://museecosme.com/products/detail.php?product_id=6

Stay tuned for my review on this newly purchased product from Japan. 

Bloom by Roseanne Trial Makeup Class

 

~AG~

Signed up for Bloom by Roseanne Trial Makeup Class. Since Bloom by Roseanne has just moved to their new location, they are offering a special promotion. S$25 for a makeup class. The two trial makeup classes available are: 1) Basic Eyeshadow Class and 2) Contouring, Highlight and Blush Class. The trial class is going to be 1.5 hours long. I decided to go with the Contouring, Highlight and Blush Class since it is something I am not as familiar with. I am so EXCITED for the class! Been curious about Bloom by Roseanne makeup classes and this is a good way to try it out.

Please click link for more details:
http://bloombyroseanne.com/pages/sign-up-for-a-trial-make-up-class

Full Credits: Bloom by Roseanne Tang

REVIEW: Innisfree Eco Science Eye Mask

~AG~

An anti-wrinkle eye mask with extract of Pure Jeju sea plants to encourage the regeneration of delicate skin around the skin.

Innisfree World , which is Innisfree's official online store, retails it for S$5.58 for a pack of eye mask.
Please click link for more details: Innisfree Online Store Eco Science Eye Mask

So what I usually do to my eye mask is to leave them in the fridge. The cooling effect makes the eye mask more refreshing. Coldness is known to constrict blood vessels, which reduces the flow of fluid into soft tissues, and thus reducing puffiness.

This eye mask claims to help reduce wrinkles by stimulating cells growth. But to tell you the truth, a mere eye mask cannot be a miracle wrinkle care. From what we know, wrinkle care is a long and tedious process. It consists of taking care of your skin from an early age.

The gel mask placed under the eyes. You can see my dark circles. 

The gel mask fits nicely under the eyes

Anyway, more about the product. A pack comes with 2 eye patches. The eye patches are made of gel, which is a  much stronger material than the usual sheet mask. The packaging says to leave the eye mask for 20 minutes before removing it. I usually leave my mask on for longer than the recommended time, for as long as 30-40 minutes. It will be such a waste to remove the eye mask when it is still soaked with essence (all the good stuff). Though, I have to say that this gel mask is not as generous with their essence as other sheet mask such as My Beauty Diary Dark Circles Intensive Care Eye Mask. The skin around the eye area feels refreshed and hydrated after using the eye mask. I cannot say much about the eye mask's claim to reduce wrinkles since it was only a one-time use.
Overall, I will not repurchase this eye mask.

REVIEW: Smith's Strawberry Lip Balm

 ~MG~

Travel-friendly packaging of the Smith's Strawberry Lip Balm

Ingredients list

The angled-squeeze tube packaging

WHAT?

Smith’s Strawberry Lip Balm

WHERE?

I got this while I was in Taiwan, forgot how much it cost but it was very affordable, around US$5-10.

WHY?

I was so excited when I saw this products because I have been reading the good reviews of the Rosebud lip balms for years! Decided not to get the original because I thought the strawberry version might give a bit of pink colour since the product does look a little pink (so disappointed that it didn’t!).

HOW?

Been using it for about 6 months and there is still a lot of product left, at least 40%! I didn’t like this product at first because of the strong strawberry scent. I am not really a fan of sweet fruity scent. But after using it more often, the scent does not bother me as much. One thing I still don’t like about this product though is how thick it is which sometimes results me in having thick gooey residue on my upper front teeth! To avoid it, I always have to remember to apply only a THIN layer. The moisturizing power is fair enough. Once applied, it can stay on for 3-4 hours. With that being said, I wouldn’t repurchase this product again because the moisturizing power is not strong enough to beat the embarrassment that I felt from having the residue on my teeth (NOT COOL AT ALL!).

REVIEW: Innisfree Canola Honey Lip Balm Smooth Care

innisfree canola honey lip balm - smooth care

The lip balm is surprisingly a green color

 

~AG~

Bought this lip balm during my trip to Korea. I am a big fan of Innisfree's products and decided to try their lip balm. This Canola Honey Lip Balm cost me KRW 6,000 (S$7). It is a much more affordable option compared to Fresh Lip Treatment or Dior Lip Glow.

 

Hydrating your lips is an important beauty habit to cultivate. Flaky lips are a big no-no. It makes you look unkempt. Plus, lipsticks goes on better with well moisturized lips. In Singapore's humid climate, you might not find the need to apply lip balm frequently. Unlike drier climate such as in the States or Europe.  With that being said, I still find my lips get dry if I do not apply lip balm, as I spend my days in an air-conditioned office. At my best, I apply lip balm twice a day. At my worst, I forget to apply them at all. On the other hand, my sister, MG, religiously apply lip balm. She always remind me to apply lip balm whenever we are travelling together. She is like the lip balm police. Haha!

 

According to innisfree website, Canola honey lip balm, is "a silky lip balm that helps create a moisture layer. It contains Jeju canola honey extract and canola seed oil. Deep moisture from the honey helps keep your lips silky and fresh all day, soothing any chapped areas. Shea butter and murumuru butter instantly provides moisture to dry lips."

To combat my forgetfulness, I leave a lip balm on my work desk for easy access. It gives me no excuse to forget to hydrate my lips. Innisfree Canola Honey Lip Balm - Smooth Care is not as hydrating as Fresh Lip Treatment or Rosebud Salve. The texture of the lip balm is rather hard, and does not go on easily. My lips does not feel well moisturized after application. The packaging of this lip balm is not sturdy; I feel that it will break to pieces if I were to drop it. Overall, I will not repurchase this lip balm.

 

 

NEW BUY: Fresh Lotus Eye Gel

~AG~ 

Since my Ren eye gel is running low, it was time for me to try another eye care product. Fresh Lotus Eye Gel is the luck pick. Initially, I wanted to try Fresh Rose Hydrating Eye Gel Cream, but I find the rose scent too overpowering. The saleslady at DFS Changi Airport told me that this Lotus Eye Gel is targeted for those with dark circles and puffiness, while the Rose Eye Gel Cream is solely for moisturising the eye area. When I heard the word "dark circles", I was immediately sold on trying this product. I am constantly plagued with dark circles no matter whether I have enough sleep or not. It is like a permanent dark circles. *sad* Actually, I have not heard much about this eye gel from Fresh. But decided to try it anyway, since I cannot think of another eye gel as an alternative. 

Previously, I have tried a few of Fresh bestsellers, Soy Face Cleanser and their Sugar Lip Treatment. Fresh's products that are tried were good and worked well on me. The only downside is that Frehs products are pricy. Thus, I did not re-purchase the Fresh Soy Face Cleanser or Sugar Lip Treatment. The Lotus Eye Gel retails for US$48 (S$69) and you get 15 ml of eye gel. It is one of the most priciest eye gel/cream that I have bought. Hoping that this eye gel works to improve my under eyes area, and that it does not cause millia. Some eye creams that are not suitable have causes millia on my under eyes area. So now I strictly use eye gel since there are lighter in texture. 

Stay tuned for my review on this product, and see whether it works on my dark circles & puffiness. 

Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Powder Tips

The many uses of Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Powder

This affordable powder can be used not only for your face, but also on your hair and even on your nails. What a great tip!

 

~MG~

Credit: Innisfree