REVIEW: Nature Republic Hawaiian Clay Pack

~AG~

This clay pack has been part of my regular skin care regimen for over three weeks now. So it is time for me to do a review on Nature Republic Hawaiian Clay Pack. As mentioned in the previous post, this clay pack was bought last year during my trip to Korea. I have never heard of this product prior but because in the store there was a sticker that indicated that it was one of Allure Korea Editor's Picks for 2013. The actual price of the clay pack should be less than USD$15. It has been a long time so I cannot remember the exact price.

As you can see, the clay has a slight pinkish tone

Clay pack applied on my troubled T-zone

The reason for buying this clay pack was also to do a product comparison with Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask that MG is a big fan of. A skincare tip that I learned from a dermatologist's assistant was to leave on clay mask overnight to shrink pimples. You basically use the clay mask as a spot treatment. It sounds like an aggressive approach, but TRUST ME, it works WONDER on whitehead pimples. If you are unsure of how your skin might react to having clay pack overnight, it might be best instead to leave clay pack on for an extended time of 20-30 minutes then rinsing it off.

Recently, I have been plagued with constant tiny pimples on my T-zone areas especially between the eyebrows (which a rare occurrence). I am not quite sure what is wrong with my skin. So, I turned to the power of clay pack for help. I use the clay pack as spot treatment two or three times a week. Try to avoid using it everyday as a spot treatment because it can be too drying for the skin.

Nature Republic Hawaiian Clay Pack is surprisingly good. Its formula does not irritate my sensitive skin. I have been using it more than 10 times, and so far, there is no adverse reaction to it. It has a fresh floral scent that is not overwhelming. The clay has a slightly pink tone. It is soft and easy to apply.  It hardens as it dries, and wash off easily with warm water. 

The clay pack comes with 95ml worth of product. This amount of clay can lasts easily more than a year. It is totally worth the price! I will recommend this clay pack to those with oily or combination skin. This clay pack really helps dry out whitehead pimples and emerging pimples! A must-have if your skin is acne-prone!

REVIEW: Kate Somerville Oil Free Moisturizer

~AG~

Received a mini size of this Kate Somerville Oil Free Moisturizer as part of the Kate Somerville Reward set from Sephora USA. I forgot to take a picture of the mini version, and have already tossed the packaging out. The image above is that of a full version. The 1.5 fl. oz full-size retails for USD$65. It is pricy for a moisturizer.
If not for the Sephora rewards redemption set, I would have never tried Kate Somerville moisturizer. Previously, the only product that I tried from Kate Somerville is their best-selling ExfoliKate.

Oil Free Moisturizer absorbs quickly to provide perfectly balanced hydration and moisturization, without any oils. Formulated without parabens or fragrances, this lightweight cream leaves nothing behind but smooth, supple skin. Essential Amino Acid Derivatives are designed to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles Red Marine Algae improves the look of firmness and elasticity Algae-Based Tighteners are formulated to tone and tighten Oil-Absorbing Spheres balance oily skin for a shine-free look.

After using this moisturizer for over three weeks, I can say that this moisturizer does not have any adverse reaction on my skin. No red bumps appear during the duration of use. This moisturizer blends well with my SunPlay Aqua sunscreen. It does not cause the sunscreen to flake, unlike Jurlique Gel Lotion. This moisturizer does not feel heavy for Singapore's humid weather. It is not sticky and does not leave a residue. During my trip to Italy last week, I felt that the moisturizer was not hydrating enough for the cool and dry Spring weather. So, this moisturizer will only work well for the summer.

With that being said, Kate Somerville Oil Free Moisturizer is just a mediocre product. I will NOT spend that much money for a moisturizer that just do an okay job. There are other more affordable moisturizers that can get the job done as well. There is nothing special about the moisturizer, and I feel that is overpriced.

REVIEW: L'Occitane Citrus Verbena Cooling Deodrant

~AG~

Bought this aluminium-free deodorant before my recent trip to Italy. This deodorant has been part of my daily routine for over two weeks now. It is time for me to do a review on this product.
A very PRICY deodorant, for 50g of product, it cost me S$32. But I can only say GOOOOD things about this deodorant.

The reason I stress the importance of aluminium-free deodorant is due to the possibility of the link between using antiperspirant and the occurrence of breast cancer. I do emphasize that this cause-and-effect is not supported by substantial scientific evidence yet. But in my opinion, it is better to be safe than sorry. What is a few dollars to shell out on to leave you feeling more assured?  
For the past year or so, I have been gearing towards a more "natural" skincare routine. I try to find skincare products that are paraben-free and artificial fragrance-free.

The Citrus Verbena Stick Deodorant neutralizes odors without altering the natural perspiration process. Free of alcohol, aluminum and parabens, this formula is absorbed quickly by the skin, leaving behind the fresh and sparkling scent of verbena. Containing an organic Verbena extract from Corsica and lemon oil from Sicily, this deodorant also helps to soothe the skin and invigorate the senses.

Anyway, back to this stick deodorant. This deodorant keeps me feeling and smelling fresh all day. Even with my 10-hours day of being under the spotlight and plenty of walking, my underarms stayed fresh. I feel much more confident when wearing it. I do not have to worry about smelling unpleasant. 
Do note that it is NOT an antiperspirant, so my body is still able to sweat normally.
I feel safe using this deodorant everyday. It does not leave a white residue on dark coloured clothing. The deodorant is absorbed quickly into the skin. It comes in a plastic packaging with makes it super convenient to travel with. 

While in an L'Occitane store in Italy, I found that this same deodorant retails at only 17 Euro (S$25). It is so MUCH cheaper in Europe compared to Singapore. So, I bought another one to stock up. On the packaging, it recommended that you toss it after 12 months of opening it. I believe that the deodorant can lasts for more than year even with daily use. 

I will recommend this stick deodorant to anyone looking for a product to keep their underarms fresh and smelling pleasant all day. Yes, it is pricy but it worth the extra dollars!

REVIEW: Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara

Mini-version of Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara

The densely-bristled brush

Medium-sized brush head

~AG~

Received a sample size of Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara from Sephora (USA) Beauty Insiders rewards redemption. I have been a BIG fan of Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes waterproof mascara for years. Click the link for my review of it. http://beautyloverssisters.blogspot.sg/2013/10/review-tarte-lights-camera-splashes.html

Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara contains active ingredients that treats the lashes while
creating a voluminous look. This Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara from Tarte is designed to treat your lash concerns while at the same time creating voluminous lashes. It promises to keep lashes hydrated, intact, healthier and stronger. The Amazonian clay balances, nourishes, hydrates, replenishes and repairs lashes. It claims to improve the overall health of your lashes. This natural clay also absorbs oil all-day to keep mascara lasting longer. Lastly, Amazonian clay's enriched pigments create voluminous lashes. 

THE GOOD

• Adds volume to my fine and straight lashes
• Does not clump
• Does not irritate my eyes 

THE BAD

• Not smudge proof, causes racoon eyes 
• Does not really lengthen my short lashes

I will not re-purchase this because I need to use waterproof mascara. This product does not come with a waterproof formula. There are way better performing high-end mascaras. I MUCH prefer Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes waterproof mascara and Dior Iconic mascara.  

Is Your Deodrant Safe for Use?

~AG~

Have you read online articles on the possible link of using antiperspirant deodorants and the occurrence of breast cancer? As a young woman, these articles are of concern to me. Between 2009-2013, breast cancer was the most common type of cancer affecting women in Singapore (29.3%). This means that 2 out of the 10 women you know might be diagnosed with breast cancer!! https://www.nrdo.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/default-document-library/cancer-trends-report-2009-2013.pdf?sfvrsn=0 

I do not know about you. But that number is ALARMING! One of my best friends stopped using antiperspirant deodorant because of these reports. Do note, at this time of publication, the science community does not warrant this claim, but they do mention that there might be a possible link. More peer-reviewed studies need to be done on it. 
"Studies suggest that chemicals in antiperspirants, including aluminum, are absorbed into the skin.. These studies claim that those chemicals may then interact with DNA and lead to cancerous changes in cells, or interfere with the action of the female hormone estrogen, which is known to influence the growth of breast cancer cells."
Please click on link for more details
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/features/antiperspirant-facts-safety
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/causes-prevention/risk/myths/antiperspirants-fact-sheet

With that being said, I much prefer to be on the SAFE side. Thus, I will be switching to a deodorant that is aluminium-free. In search of an aluminium-free deodorant in Singapore is like finding money on the ground. Guardian only carried one aluminium-free deodorant which was a crystal aloe vera stick in a glass packaging. I NEVER heard of that brand before and it was retailing for S$26. Some shops that I went to were belief, The Body Shop, Aesop, Kiehls, Lush, Sephora, Crabtree and Evelyn, and FINALLY L'Occitane.

REVIEW: Kiss Me Heroine Make Smooth Liquid Eyeliner

 

The ultra fine brush

Look how FINE the tip is!

The black-grey pigment of the eyeliner

~AG~

This eyeliner has been in my makeup stock since my trip to Taiwan, which was a year and a half ago. I almost forgotten about it till I was organizing my beauty products the other day. http://beautyloverssisters.blogspot.sg/2014/02/kiss-me-heroine-make-smooth-liquid.html

My sister told me that she tried this eyeliner before and that it was pretty good. My friend, Janet, had also mentioned that this eyeliner was featured on a Taiwanese TV show as being a top-rated eyeliner.
Even though my Lancôme Artliner is still useable, it is time to move on to another eyeliner. See you later, Lancôme Artliner.

With this Kiss Me Heroine Make Smooth Liquid Eyeliner, I will be testing it on it lasting power, pigmentation, and smudge-proof ability.

THE GOOD

• Very fine tip. This is probably the most fine brush tip that I have used.
• Goes on VERY smoothly
• Great for a natural tightly lined eyeliner look
• The brush is easy to use. This would be a GREAT eyeliner to try for those new to makeup
• It does NOT fade at all! Stays on for more than 12 hours!
• No worrying about raccoon eyes aka eyeliner smudging to my lower eyelids. Double Yay! 

THE BAD

• Not as pigmented as Lancôme Artliner or MARC JACOBS Magic Marc'er Precision Pen. You have to go over it a few times to get adequate color. The eyeliner has more of a grey-black shade.
• Will not work well for more dramatic eyeliner look such as cat eyes or winged eyeliner. It will take longer to create those looks. 

REVIEW: REN Clean Skincare Vita Mineral Active 7 Eye Gel

The hygienic pump that is enclosed with a cap, great for travelling

~AG~

This eye gel has been part of my skincare routine for over two months now. The product is about half empty now. Thus, it is time for me to give an honest verdict of it. I apply Ren Eye Gel day and night under the eyes area. The pump packaging of the eye gel makes it convenient for travelling. There is a cap that locks in place to protect the pump. I would have to say this is one of the BEST eye product packaging ever. Because it is hygienic, no worries of spillage, and dispenses the right amount of eye gel. The only thing is that you cannot see how much product you have left. If only, it is was a clear packaging. 

Its active ingredients are supposed to help reduce puffiness and dark circles.
So does it help with my panda eyes? Sadly, the answer is "No".
REN Eye Gel did not help minimize my panda eyes. My dark circles looks the same, with or without the application of eye gel.  My dark circles has been a constant presence in my life. It has been more than 10 years since I have been looking for ways to minimize it. Unfortunately, no eye care products have worked any magic on it. 

Unlike Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage, Ren Eye Gel does not refresh the eye area. It is a light gel that does not have much de-puffing properties. It is absorbed quickly into the skin, and does not leave a heavy residue. This is the ONLY thing that I like about this eye gel.
With it being so light, REN Eye Gel does not moisturize the eye area well. For those of you who live in country in varying season, this eye gel will not work during the Autumn and Winter season.

Overall, I would not repurchase this eye gel. This pricey eye gel at US$30 is not worth the money. 
Click link for my details on the eye gel.
http://beautyloverssisters.blogspot.sg/2014/11/new-buy-ren-clean-skincare-vita-mineral.html

NEW BUY: REN ClearCalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser

~AG~

Last week, Luxola was having their Midnight Madness sale. They were offering up to 40% off purchase. At first, I was not planning to buy anything from their website. However, during a recent facial at NUA, the facialist recommended that I use a clay cleanser once or twice a week. While casually browsing the website for clay cleanser, I found that REN Clean Skincare has one. Ever since my good experience with REN Vita Mineral Daily Supplement Moisturizing Cream, I have been a BIG FAN of Ren Clean Skincare. Click link for my review of it. http://beautyloverssisters.blogspot.sg/2014/12/review-ren-clean-skincare-vita-mineral.html

Originally, Luxola retails REN ClearCalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser for S$50. However, with the 40% discount, I managed to purchase it at S$30. Sephora USA website retails it for US$32. So with Luxola's discount, it became a more affordable purchase. It is still expensive for a cleanser. However, with my skin getting more sensitive over the years, I tend to invest more on face wash. Previously, I used to go for only drugstore brand face washes. But now I tend to go for face washes that are more gentle. My skin responds better to face washes that are paraben free and artificial fragrances.



A purifying, antibacterial cleanser formulated to prevent breakouts. It targets the 3 common causes of blemishes: excess sebum, build up of dead skins and blemish-causing bacteria. It claims to deeply clean and purify pores, by gently exfoliating skin. Plus, it mentioned that it will combat blemishes without drying the skin! Most blemish-fighting products are too harsh for my sensitive skin, and will cause dryness.   

It contains:

• French clay that absorbs excess oil and purifies the pore.
• Zinc Gluconate that reduces overproduction of sebum
• Salicilin has an antibacterial properties and has a gentle exfoliating properties
• Mayblossom that minimizes pore size
• Manuka Extract that soothes and nourishes skin

I am EXCITED to try this clay cleanser! I hope it will help improve my skin condition as I am suffering some major breakouts around my T-zones now. Lastly, I HOPE (x3) my skin does not have any adverse reaction to it. *cross my fingers*