NEW BUY: Klorane Shampoo with Peony for Irritated and Itchy Scalp

~AG~

Bought this Klorane Shampoo - Peony at Guardian for S$18.90, it comes with 400 ml of product, which is quite worth it. This amount should last me for at least 5 months. Been wanting to try Klorane products. Guardian has a wide selection of Klorane shampoos to chose from, but I decided to try this Shampoo with Peony. This shampoo is for those with irritated and itchy scalp. Recently, I noticed that my scalp is more itchy than usual. I hope this shampoo will help soothe my irritate scalp. *cross my fingers*

For irritated scalp, soothing and anti-irritating. We have selected Paeonia lactiflora L. species for its high paeoniflorin content, a molecule with scientifically proven anti-irritant, soothing and anti-radical properties, which instantly soothe sensitive and irritated scalps. We harvest our peony in the provinces of Shaanxi and Gansu, in China. The roots of each plant are collected by hand and then peeled, blanched and left to dry in the sun before we obtain our extract. 

Stay tuned for my review of Klorane Shampoo with Peony! I will try it after I am done with Shiseido Professional Fuente Forte Scalp Care Shampoo! 

Nail Polishes Haul

Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat and Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Twin Set in Birthday Suit

~AG~

Since my younger sister was going to the States, I decided to do a little online shopping. A little haul from drugstore.com. The first product on my shopping list was Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat. It retailed only for US $7.09 (~S$10). This quick-dry top coat was introduced to me by the manicurist at Seasons Nail Bar. Seche Vite Top Coat is very chip-resistant and long-lasting, plus it dries up very quickly. My pedicured toenails did not chip off at all, even after 4 weeks. I managed to save S$10, because Season Nail Bar was selling it for S$20.

Another nail product that I purchased was the Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Twin Set in Birthday Suit. drugstore.com was having an offer, and it was retailing for US$ 12.79 (~S$18). I just found out that it would have been cheaper to buy it in Singapore; Guardian sells Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Twin Set for S$16.90. The twin set comes with a gel color and a gel top coat. I love gel nails for its long-lasting and durability, you do not have to wait for it to dry nor worry that it will chip. With that being said, going to the nail salon to do a gel nail can get pricy. Plus, too much gel nail application & removal can be harmful for your nails. Sally Hansen Miracle Gel claims to give 14 days of color and shine. This a great at-home option, plus you do not have to cure it with a UV lamp. 

I cannot wait to try out these nail polishes! Stay tuned for my review of them!

NEW BUY: Soap & Glory Kick Ass Blur & Brighten Concealer Crayon

~AG~

Whenever I travel overseas, one of my favorite-st thing to do is to browse through the local drugstore. I love walking up and down the aisles, discovering new brands and products. During my time in Bangkok last month, I just had to pay a visit to Boots, a UK pharmacy chain that is commonly found there. Boots is similar to Guardian and Watsons stores in Singapore, though the products that they carry are slightly different. One of the brands available at Boots is Soap & Glory. You probably have heard about the brand before. It is famous for its body products such as the Flake Away Body Polish and The Righteous Butter Body Butter. I was particularly interested in Soap & Glory's makeup line. Though I have not heard much about their makeup products, I decided to try the Kick Ass Blur & Brighten Concealer Crayon. It retailed for THB 400 (~S$16). Not exactly the cheapest concealer at the drugstore, but the packaging and the texture of the concealer convinced me to purchased it. The texture felt nice, and was not too drying. The shade, Medium, also seemed to match my skin tone well when I swatched it on my hands. (I know I know, that is not the right way to color match a concealer, but I did not want to put the tester anywhere near my face).

According to Soap & Glory official website: This multi-action, no-nonsense concealer crayon blurs imperfections and banishes shadows for a flawless finish. With long-lasting coverage that leaves skin looking revived and refreshed, this roll up, multi-tasking concealer crayon is perfect for girls on the go!

Though, I still love my Cle de Peau Beaute concealer, I was on a lookout for a decent concealer that I can carry around in my bag for touch-up. A more affordable concealer that will provide coverage for my dark circles and redness. Soap & Glory's Kick Ass Concealer's crayon applicator makes it super convenient for traveling with. I cannot wait to try it out! I hope the shade and texture works for me :)

DRX Clinic Journey Part 8 (8 Months After)

~AG~

My first visit to DRX Clinic for 2016. 
It was a regular follow-up visit with Dr. Tsu. We discussed a few issues, specifically regarding the results of the milia seed removal. Click the link for my experience with milia removal at DRX Clinic. http://beautyloverssisters.blogspot.sg/2015/11/review-drx-clinic-milia-removal.html

Top: 20 May 2015 vs Bottom: 15 Jan 2016

 Top: 20 May 2015 vs Bottom: 15 Jan 2016

What did Dr. Tsu said about the results of the milia removal?
Dr. Tsu said that even though it has been six weeks, my under eye area where the milia seeds were removed are still recovering. There are still some red/brown scars. He mentioned that for someone of my age (p.s: late 20s), it should have fully recovered by now. Though those skin tags/milia seeds removed on the forehead have fully healed. In general, Dr. Tsu said my skin does not scar so he was quite puzzled on why the scabs under the eyes have not fully recovered. He also pointed out that are some recurrence of milia seeds where it had been removed. We will discuss on the next follow-up visit on what to do next, as he want to see further how my skin recovery will be.  

Milia recurrence 

How does spironolactone works? Is it safe?
So, I have been on spironolactone for almost 8 months now. This does work to help control my acne, though the results are not immediate. See the noticeable difference in my skin condition in the comparison pictures above. It took about 3-4 months for me to see the effects of spironolactone. So far, I do not notice any side effects. 
Dr. Tsu mentioned that spironolactone aids in acne treatment by blocking androgen, which is male hormones. When a individual get stressed, the body produces androgen, which research have shown cause acne. Dr. Tsu re-assured me that spironolactone is safe to take for an extended period of time, and he added that he will not prescribe any medication that is unsafe for me. I commend Dr. Tsu for being a responsible dermatologist. Hearing horror stories from my family members and friends, I know of some dermatologists who are unethical and will just prescribe the most expensive treatment for acne. I am GLAD Dr. Tsu is not one of them!

Why you suffer breakouts on your chin during the time of the month?
Dr. Tsu mentioned that pimples on chin are hormonal. That is why you breakout around your chin during the time of the month. Dr. Tsu recommended that I continue to apply Acne Spot Lotion on those hidden pimples. 

To squeeze or not to squeeze whitehead pimples?

This is something that we have heard many times. Personally, I try not to squeeze my whitehead pimples because I am scared that it will lead to scarring. But those whitehead pimples are so difficult to resist squeezing. Dr. Tsu advised to only squeeze whitehead pimples that are obvious and with care. He reminded me not to over-squeeze the whitehead pimples as it can get more inflamed. If you feel that there is something left on the whitehead pimples or it re-emerges, just continue to apply Acne Spot Lotion as the skin is still inflamed. 

Why do I breakout when I travel?

Being on a plane itself can be a stress trigger. Another factor might be the bad air on the plane. According to Dr. Tsu, a number of his patients that also came back from Bangkok also suffered from breakout. I had recently traveled to Bangkok and had a few huge pimples the day after, my sister also experienced the same thing.

NEW BUY: belief Haul - Eye Care Products

~AG~

belif First Aid 360 Eye care mask & Anti-dark circles Eye serum

Anti-Dark Circle Eye Serum ($68)
This eye serum effectively brightens the eye area while diminishing the appearance of dark circles. The eye serum, tested and proven to ease dark circles, is formulated with red sage, gallnut and other special herbs, the Napier's Dark Circle Formula backed by 150 years of tradition.

First Aid 360 Eye Care Mask ($39). 
One of belif's best-sellers! It is to be used after an eye cream or eye serum. An intensive eye care mask for the skin around the eyes tired from less skin care products and much color make-up. Including mimosa herbs and 3 types of Napiers formula, the mask provides moisture around the sensitive eye area, and revitalize it with energy.

Paid $99 for both products because there was a Christmas promotion. Cannot wait to try these two eye care products! I hope it helps reduce my severe dark circles! Stay tuned for my review of the Anti-Dark Circle Eye Serum and First Aid 306 Eye Care Mask!

IN USE: belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb

~AG~
This travel-sized version was part of a set I bought last February. The reason why I am attracted to belif is because of its philosophy in reducing synthetic ingredients in its products. belif is a Korean beauty brand that claims to be a "true herbal cosmetic brand". 

For belif's The true cream - aqua bomb, it claims to not have any mineral oil, synthetic fragrance, synthetic dyes, synthetic preservatives and animal-original ingredients. Having developed sensitive skin over the years, I am on a search for skincare products that are less harmful to my skin.

After using The true cream - aqua bomb for over two weeks, I can it is a good product. It hydrates my skin, and does not feel sticky. Though I have to say that it is not as hydrating as Laneige Water Bank Essence. belif  aqua bomb is absorbed easily into my skin. The moisturizer has a very slight herbal scent. The aqua bomb has a soft gel texture, which reminded me of Biotherm moisturizer.

My sensitive skin did not have any adverse reaction to this product. My skin will usually let me know immediately when it is unhappy with a skincare product, by introducing red or white bumps. Since I have combination skin as well, products that are pore-clogging will cause pimples especially on the T-zones. I cannot say definitely that aqua bomb does not cause pimples, as I am suffering a MAJOR acne breakout right now. But I strongly believe the acne breakout is due to my constant travel and the unbalanced diet, coupled with my impending time of the month. All these factors are causing my skin to go crrraaazzzzyyy!

Anyway, I will do an updated review when I am done with this tub of aqua bomb. But so far, I like belif The true cream aqua bomb

Q&A: Fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Cream

~MG~

Rose Hydrating Gel Cream with soothing rosewater is a daily moisturizer for all skin types proven to provide 24 hours of significant moisture while protecting against damage caused by pollution. Its unique texture has an immediate cooling effect and instantly hydrates the skin for a healthy-looking, radiant complexion. 

 Key Ingredients:

• Rosewater helps to soothe and rose flower oil and jojoba oil help to nourish.
• Porphyridium cruentum, a “smart” algae, helps to deliver optimum moisture.
• Angelica leaf extract is known to improve moisture-retention.
• Rhodiola root extract is a protective antioxidant.
• Hyaluronic acid helps attract and maintain moisture to restore suppleness.
• Cucumber extract helps to calm and cool the skin.  

Fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Creams claims  to provide up to 24 hours of significant moisture, and to significantly protect the skin from damage caused by pollution. 100% felt their skin was healthier-looking and more hydrated, supple, and soft. 97% noticed their skin was instantly hydrated and nourished. 93% reported it protected, soothed, and toned the skin.

Q: How much did you buy Fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Cream for?
A: In Singapore city, it retails for S$68. Since I bought mine at Changi Airport Shilla Duty Free, it was cheaper, at around S$63. It is a good idea to buy your beauty products from Duty Free shops as it is GST-free (sales tax free), you save tons of money.

Q: Why did you decide to try this Fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Cream?
A: Because I want a more natural moisturizer that is gentle on my skin. I was actually debating between the Rose Hydrating Gel Cream and the Clay Umbrian Oil-Free Lotion. The saleslady recommended that I buy the Rose Hydrating Gel Cream because she saw some dry patches on my cheeks.

Q: How long have you been using this moisturizer? 
A: I have been using it twice a day for about three months now.

Q: What do you like about this product? 
A: This product is very moisturizing. Since it is a gel texture, it has a cooling effect when applied. Sometimes, especially in the daytime, I find that it might be too much for Singapore's humid climate. Compared to Laneige Water Bank Gel Cream, Fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Cream is more hydrating. 
It does not leave a sticky feeling, but it can sometimes make my T-zones looks oily. My T-zones, in general, tend to be oily.
Even with it being very moisturizing, Fresh Rose Gel Cream does not cause me to breakout. It also works well with my other skincare products. I apply this moisturizer at the end of my skincare regimen - before I put sunscreen or face oil.  
Lastly, I like the pump packaging. It makes it very convenient for application. The slim and light plastic packaging also make it a plus for traveling with.

Q: What do you want to improve about this product?
A:I would not repurchase because it is too moisturizing for my oily-combination skin, since I only have dry areas on my cheeks.

Q: Would you recommend this moisturizer to your friends? 
A: I would recommend this moisturizer for those that have dry skin type, or those that live in drier climates such as the United States. It will be good for the winter season in the U.S. Alternatively, you can use this moisturizer as a night cream if you sleep in an air conditioned room.

REVIEW: CND Shellac Gel Manicure @ Seasons Nail Bar

~AG~
 
The first week of December, I headed to Season Nail Bar at Shaw Center to do a classic gel manicure and classic pedicure. Since I have an existing packaging with them, I thought it will be good to use them before the year ends. In 2015, I only managed to get my nails done there 3-4 times. Previously, I have tried their GellyFit and Tiffany gel manicure, and was very satisfied with it. This time, I decided to try the CND Shellac. The manicurist told me that CND Shellac is less harsh for the nails as it requires no buffing when removing it. The CND Shellac gel nail will supposedly "slide off" when you soak it off. I do find that my nails become brittle after a gel manicure. My nails are usually strong, and do not break easily. But after the removal of gel nails, my natural nails became noticeable weaker. I had to paint on a hardening nail polish for protection. That is the only downside to getting a gel manicure.

On the upside, a gel manicure can lasts a minimum of 14 days without any chipping. It is great for people like me who cannot maintain their usual manicure for more than 2 days. The manicurist claimed that CND Shellac Gel Manicure lasts as long as GellyFit and Tiffany - 14 days of wear. Sounded good, all the benefits of a gel manicure, without the nail damage that comes with it.
Though, Seasons Nail Bar required me to pay an additional $5 for CND Shellac compared to our gel nail. This additional cost I did not appreciate!

The application of CND Shellac Gel Manicure is similar to that of other gel manicure. EXCEPT that, you have to put your nails for 2 minutes under the UV lamp for each time. I remember other gel nails not taking that long, probably 30 seconds or so. The manicurist told me that CND Shellac requires the use of their own CND Shellac Base Coat and Top Coat. Whereas other gel nail brands such as Gelish or GellyFit can use base and top coats from other gel nail companies.  

After 5 days of wear, no chipping of nail color was noticed. My nails were still as shiny! Though, I have to say that my nails had a slight chemical smell 2-3 days following the gel manicure. I did not notice such chemical smell when I had done the JellyFit and Tiffany Gel Nail.

A natural taupe color

Shiny nails after 5 days of wear

During the soak-off process, it took about 20 minutes to thoroughly remove the gel nail. The gel nail was removed easily after 10 minutes of soaking it in acetone-filled cotton. There was no buffing required to remove the gel nail. Yay! What the manicurist claimed was true! My nails also did not feel brittle after the removal of the gel nail. Double Yay! I will definitely do CND Shellac Gel Manicure again. Though the color options available for CND Shellac is limited at Seasons Nail Bar. The colors available at Seasons Nail Bar are mostly nudes, pinks and other natural shades.