DRX Clinic Journey Part 6 (5 Months After)

~AG~
My follow-up visit with Dr. Tsu was two weeks ago. Finally, found the time to write an update about it. So what did Dr.Tsu had to say about my skin condition?

Firstly, he said my skin condition has improved. Yay! Somehow I felt that it has too. My mother and boyfriend also commented that my skin looks much better now. Worth every extra minute spent on the skincare regimen, and every dollar spent on the Derma-RX products. It has been about 5 months since I started on the Derma-RX skincare regimen. Some topics that we discussed during the visit:

WHITEHEADS
There are still white bumps on my forehead. But Dr. Tsu explained that they are not pimples but whiteheads (clogged pores). He recommended me to continue applying the Comodone Formula and Blemish Formula on the trapped whiteheads.  

ACNE SCARS
There are some acne scars on my chin. Dr. Tsu mentioned that the scars will take some time to fade away. He said that if I am really concerned about the scarring, I could do some laser treatment.

MEDICATION
He continued to prescribe me the spironolactone for another 45 days. My next appointment with him is in mid-November. Because I had told him that I still suffer from large pimples during the time of the month, he advised me to continue with the medicine to see its effects. I have been on spironolactone since mid-July, it has been three months of continued consumption.

EFFECTS OF EVENING PRIMOSE OIL
Before my appointment with Dr. Tsu, a question appeared to me. I wondered whether the consumption of Evening Primose Oil (EPO) supplement triggered my acne outbreak in April-May. I was taking EPO daily to combat my severe PMS symptoms. Dr. Tsu mentioned that EPO might cause breakouts as it affects hormones. He told me not to start on EPO just yet, as my skin is just "recovering".

"BACTERIA FOOD"
Sugar + Diary Products = Food for Skin Bacteria. Both these two bacteria "food" are my weaknesses. So for those that are suffering breakouts, you might want to cut down on these two ingredients. Yes, it is super difficult. But your skin will thank you for it.
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Overall, I trust Dr. Tsu. He is very easy to talk to, and takes the time to patiently answer all my detailed questions. Regarding the Derma-RX products, there are some hits and misses. I will say some Derma-RX products will not be repurchased such as the Milk Cleanser, Foaming Cleanser, Hydrator, Alpha Beta Gel and Sunscreen. FYI, the tinted sunscreen I am using now is the old formula. They now have a new and improved formula.

From Left to Right: Milk Cleanser, Toner, Comedone Formula, Acne Spot Solution, Blemish Formula, Alpha Beta Gel, Max-C and Tinted Sunscreen

Here are the Derma-RX products that I like the most are, according to their ranking:

1) Max-C - LOVE LOVE this serum. My skin feels instantly firm after use.

2) Toner - Found a newfound love for toner because of this product. It keeps my skin fresh and balanced

3) Blemish Formula - This gentle formula works to tackle pimples and whiteheads

4) Comedone Formula - Keeps my oil glands under control, and helps with pore control

5) Acne Spot Solution - Reduces my red/whitehead pimples

NEW BUY: La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution

Micellar Water

~AG~
Been a big fan of Bioderma Sebium H20, it has been my cleansing routine staple for over a year and a half. Cleansing water is definitely the greatest beauty invention of this decade! After going through 2 or 3 bottles of Bioderma Sebium, it is time to try something new. They are way more cleansing water available on the market right now. Drugstore brands such as Garnier, Biore, Avène, Simple, Vichy and La Roche-Posay having cleansing water. Even higher-end brands such as Lancome, Dior and Caudalíe are offering cleansing water. With MG's encouragement, I decided to buy a travel-size version of La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution from Guardian. It costs $9.90 for 100 ml of cleansing water. It is more affordable compared to Bioderma Sebum H20. This cleansing water claims to cleanse, tone and soothe skin, all while respecting its physiological balance. 

100 ml

La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution is/contains: 

A 3-in-1 no-rinse solution

Gentle cleansing and make-up removal

Micelles micro-encapsulate dirt on skin's surface and lift it off without rubbing, maintaining skin's physiological balance.

Poloxamer, a mild cleanser used in contact lens solutions, gently cleanses even sensitive skin.

Antioxidant Thermal Spring Water soothes skin

A gentle, mildly scented texture that wipes off with a cotton pad

Physiological PH. Safe for sensitive skin

Soap-free, Alcohol-free, Paraben-free 

I cannot wait to try it out. I hope it is just as good or even better than Bioderma Sebium H20. Will let you know how it goes. Stay tuned!

Q&A: Laneige White Plus Renew Original Essence

~MG~

Light plastic packaging 

Comes with a dropper applicator

Q: How much did you buy Laneige White Plus Renew Original Essence for?
A: When I bought the first bottle at Laneige's retail store, it cost me ~$78. The second bottle was purchased at Shilla Duty Free at Changi Airport for ~$58. It was a $20 price difference!

Q: Why did you decide to try this Laneige White Plus Renew Original Essence?
A: This is one of Laneige's global best-seller products. I have seen this essence win my beauty awards. I wanted a product that will help brighten my uneven skin tone, because I have quite a bit of acne scars  Korean beauty products are known for achieving clear, and fair complexion.

Q: What were your expectations of this essence?
A: My hope for this essence was to lighten my acne scars and brighten my complexion. 

Q: How long have you been using it? 
A: Started using the first bottle in February. One bottle lasts me about six months. Now I am on my second bottle. 

Q: Have you see any improvement from the continued used?
A: I think I have seen some improvement in my overall skin tone. My dark acne scars has lightened, though the difference is not very noticeable. 

Q: Does this essence work for acne or combination skin? 
A: Defnitely! It is lightweight and does not cause my skin to breakout. 

Q: Will you repurchase it?
A: Yes, it works fine for my skin. I especially like that the packaging is light, and is not made of glass. It is great for traveling! Unlike Kiehl's serum that has a glass packaging, and was too heavy to travel with. I will recommend this essence for those with uneven skin tone, and for those who want to improve their overall skin tone. The effect is gradual and not as noticeable, but it does help for acne scars. For those with more pigmented scars, I would recommend Laneige White Plus Renew Original Spot Ampoule for a stronger and targeted whitening effects. 

REVIEW: innisfree second skin mask anti-trouble

innisfree second skin mask anti-trouble

~AG~

This sheet mask was gifted to me by my Korean friend, a year ago. But now I finally have the opportunity to give try it. On the package, it says, 'This perfectly adhesive mask contains propolis which deeply penetrated into your skin to intensively ease and soothe red, troubled skin, creating a clear complexion."According to innisfree world, this sheet mask is made up of fermented soybean sheet. It also claims to cool down the skin by 5℃. The bio-cellulose sheet mask adheres well to the face. The propolis content is supposed to soothe skin troubles. Innisfree world is retailing it at SS7.21 per sheet mask. Check out innisfree official shopping site for more details: innisfree second skin mask anti-trouble

This sheet mask is different that regular sheet mask because it does not feel like paper. The serum is also rather gel-like instead of the usual liquid consistency. The feel of the sheet mask is thicker than that of My Beauty Diary Mask or The Face Shop Mask. Since this bio-cellulose mask is delicate, it is protected between two mesh sheets. You remove one side of the mesh sheets then apply the sheet mask on your face, before removing the top mesh sheet. If I had not read the instructions online, I would have applied the mesh sheet thinking it was the sheet mask. Haha! It would have been strange. 

My skin felt tingly when this sheet mask was on. The tingly sensation was quite obvious. I wanted to remove the sheet mask because of the tingly feeling. I thought it was because my skin was having an adverse reaction to the mask. Fortunately, after use, there were no visible bumps or redness on my face. Even the next morning, my skin did not have any allergic reaction it this sheet mask. 

The sheet mask does not fully cover my forehead

 

After I remove the sheet mask, I found that the serum does not penetrate easily into my skin. Even after massaging the serum in, it took a while for it to be fully absorbed. My skin does not feel as hydrated after the use of this mask. But I did notice that my skin felt cooler to touch. My T-zone was experiencing some pimples and this sheet mask did help calm it down. Even though my pimples did not disappear overnight, it became less red after application of the mask.

Overall, I would not recommend this innisfree second mask anti-trouble. I prefer a sheet mask that hydrates and softens my skin. This sheet mask might work well for when my skin is sun-burnt, as it is effective in cooling it down. But the high price tag will make me think twice before repurchasing it.

NEW BUY: Visée Nudy Rich Eyes in BE-3

Visée Nudy Rich Brown

Five beautiful shades 

~AG~

Bought this eyeshadow for JPY 1,512 (S$18) during my trip to Tokyo. While traveling on the subway, I noticed the flattering brown hues that Japanese ladies put on their eyelids. I realized that the Japanese ladies love natural warm eyeshadows for everyday use. Instead of using black eyeliners to line their eyes, they prefer using brown eyeshadows to line the eyes. It gives a nice soft makeup look. This convinced me to find a beautiful brown eyeshadow palette in Japan. Happened to see this brand, Visèe, at the drugstore. It is one of the brands under the Kose group. Actually, I have never heard about Visèe before. I'm not that familiar with Japanese beauty products as I am with Korean beauty brands. But decided to try this because the colors were lovely, and the price was quite reasonable. It is pricier than regular drugstore eyeshadow such as Maybelline, L'oreal and such. On a side note: Gosh, it has been a long time since I purchased drugstore eyeshadow. The last one I purchased was  L'oreal Infallible Eyeshadow about three years ago. Ever since that, I have been sticking to higher-end eyeshadows such as my favourite Urban Decay Naked Palette.

Shimmery eyeshadows

 The palette comes with five shades - white, pink, peachy pink, brown and cocoa. When I swatched the colours in the drugstore, it was pigmented and not too glittery. It does have shimmer but not overdone. This will be a great eyeshadow palette for everyday use. The colors are soft and un-intimidating. Too bad that the descriptions are all in Japanese. I cannot wait to try these pretty shades. I will let you all know how well this eyeshadow works for my medium skin tone, and also comment on its staying power. Stay tuned!

REVIEW: Musee Platinum Tokyo Hair Removal Treatment

~AG~

This is a long overdue review of Musee Platinum Tokyo S.S.C Hair Removal Treatment. Bought a Groupon for their unlimited Underarm hair removal treatment inclusive of a $100 voucher. It costs me $98, with a value of $1,138. But now Musee Platinum is offering much lower prices for unlimited hair removal. Their current promo price is $38 for unlimited underarm and bikini line hair removal. So much cheaper than what I paid two years ago! Anyway, back on topic.

The reason why I chose underarm hair removal is because my underarm hairs were fast-growers. I had to shave every other day to keep my underarm are fuzz-free. It was such a hassle especially when you are travelling. The frequent shaving of my underarm hairs resulted in it getting dark. An unsightly thing. Actually, I had read about Musee Platinum on a Singapore magazine (either Cleo or Her World) before bravely buying a Groupon for it. I do not recommend buying beauty services from Groupon since some establishments listed on their website are not credible.

My first treatment session was on April 2013. It has been two years since I regularly go for the underarm treatment. For the first twelve sessions, you would have to go for the hair removal treatment every two months. Subsequently, you would only have to go for the hair removal treatment every three months.

So what can I say about Musee Platinum Hair Removal Treatment

Q: How is the treatment like?
A: For the underarm area, it takes 15 minutes at the most. The beauty therapist cleans the underarm area, then she uses an electric shaver to shave the area. After cleaning the area again, the beauty therapist will put a cold gel on the treatment area. Then the "laser" treatment will start. It takes about 3 shots of laser for one side of the underarm area. While the laser is being shot, your eyes are covered by a piece of paper towel and a protective glasses. After removing the cold gel, the beauty therapist will put a cold pack on for about three minutes to relieve the treatment area. Lastly, the beauty therapist will apply Musee's own moisturizing cream to soothe the area.

Q:Was the treatment pain-free?
A: The first few treatment sessions were more painful since my hair strands were thick. It stings like a rubber snapping. I have a low threshold of pain, and I would say the overall treatment process is tolerable. Since it is quick (takes about 10-15 minutes for the whole process for both underarms), it makes it so much easier. Now, the treatment process is rather pain-free. I can fall asleep while the beauty therapist is doing the treatment.

Q: When did you see results?
A: After the third sessions (after 5 months), I noticed that my underarm hair was becoming lesser. Also, the hair strands were getting more fine. Now, I do not have to shave my underarms at all! Yay!

Q: Any other tips?
A: The beauty therapists do not recommend that you shave your underarm between sessions. They recommend that you cut your underarm hairs with scissors. According to them, shaving your underarm stimulates hair growth, which is counterintuitive to the hair removal treatment. This was very difficult for me to adjust to at first.  

Q: Anything that you do not like about the service at Musee?
A: It very difficult to re-schedule an appointment at Musee. The Plaza Singapura branch that I go to is always crowded. Sometimes, I have a week or two later to get an appointment slot. 
Another thing that concerns me is the use of electrical shaver at Musee. Even though they clean the electrical shaver after use, I still find it not as unhygienic as using a disposable shaver. Also, the electric shaver that they use feels harsh on my skin. 

Please check out the Musee Platinum website for more details on their hair removal treatment.
Musee Platinum S.S.C Hair Removal Treatment

REVIEW: Bifesta Eye Makeup Remover

Bifesta Eye Makeup Remover

~AG~
Bifesta Eye Makeup Remover is a frequently-seen makeup remover sold in Watsons, Sasa and Guardian. While in Japan for holiday, I decided to stock up on this makeup remover since my innisfree apple juicy lip & eye remover was on its last drops. Managed to purchase this makeup remover at JPY 595 (~S$ 7.5), and it came with a pack of Q-tip (cotton buds). It was such as steal, whereas Watson Singapore is retailing it for S12.90. That is S$5 in savings! Yippy!!

This makeup remover claims to "effortlessly removes the most waterproof makeup without tugging." It contains Vitamin B & E for added benefit. It is a dual-phase makeup remover. The top emollient layer contains non-greasy oil that effectively removes the most stubborn, waterproof mascara. The bottom water-based layer is a gentle lotion that is refreshing, and has hydrating properties. It is also hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, colorant-free and paraben-free. Sounds great for those with sensitive skin.

Dual-phase makeup remover

For eye makeup, I always wear waterproof mascara and eyeliner. Since the skin around the eyes area is very delicate, my hope is for a makeup remover that can effectively remove waterproof makeup without much rubbing. Tugging and rubbing can cause premature wrinkles around the eyes. Even though I try to be as gentle as possible with makeup removal, sometimes it does require some wiping and rubbing.
To use this makeup remover, you have to shake the bottle first. Then dispense some product on cotton pad, and wipe gently. For stubborn waterproof mascara, hold cotton pad against eye for a while before gently wiping off. This makeup remover works by lifting makeup rather than melting it away. The great thing about this makeup remover is that it does not sting at all! Some eye makeup removers such as Body Shop Chamomile eye makeup remover stings my eyes area. It works well to remove my most waterproof makeup such as Heroine Make Me Smooth Liquid Eyeliner and Tarte Lights, Cameras and Splashes. You only need 20-cent sized amount for each eye. For my previous eye makeup remover, innisfree juicy lip & eye makeup remover, I needed 50-cent sized amount for each eye. Bifesta Eye Makeup Remover is more effective than innisfree juicy lip & eye makeup remover in thoroughly removing waterproof eye makeup. I will definitely re-purchase this worthy eye makeup remover.

REVIEW: Timeless Truth Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Mask

~AG~

 

UPDATED 16/10/2015: My cousin-in-law told me that Timeless Truth is actually a Taiwanese brand that became popular in France. My prior claim that they are a French is according to their unofficial website. She told me that these popular sheet masks are sold out in Taiwan. Unlike their stated online price, she said it costs US$1.50 in Taiwan.

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This sheet mask was given to me by my Taiwanese cousin-in-law. She says that this sheet mask works well for her sensitive skin. Prior to her introduction of Timeless Truth sheet masks, I have not heard of this brand. Initially, I thought it was a Taiwanese brand. They also claim to be the #1 Beauty Mask in France.

 

Timeless Truth Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Mask. Note: This packaging looks different than that featured on their website. But I believe it is essentially the same product. The Chinese words on the packaging are specially for the Taiwanese market.

 

On their official website, the Timeless Truth Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Mask retails for US$11 for a single sachet. This is pricy for a sheet mask. My Beauty Diary or innisfree's sheet masks cost only US$1.50- US$2 per sachet. Please click link for more information. http://timelesstruthcosmetics.com/product/hyaluronic-acid-moisturizing-mask-1-sachet/

 

According to an Australian beauty website, Beauty Haven :

Timeless Truth Bio Cellulose Hydra-Soothing Moisturising Mask is a face mask that moistures, nourishes and protects skin. Rich in hyalo-oligo, hyaluronic acid and hydrolysed hyaluronic acid, the mask helps to moisturise dry skin and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The Bio-Cellulose nanoscopic fibre cloth allows for the deeper penetration of the serum, and hydrates collagen fibres for a glowing complexion.

 

Hydra-Sooth Moisturizing Fiber Mask

 

So what makes Timeless Truth's Bio Cellulose Masks different than other regular sheet masks?

The structure of Bio Cellulose is extremely delicate; it fits perfectly on the skin and can aid penetration of serum deep into facial tissue. Due to its fibrous nano-scopic material it has a larger surface contact with the skin. It helps maintain the moisture in the skin and allows it to breathe as well. http://ttmasks.co.uk/about/

 

So what can I say about Timeless Truth Bio Cellulose Mask?

• The sheet mask is generously soaked with serum
• Timeless Truth's sheet mask feels thicker than My Beauty Diary or The Face Shop sheet masks
• It does not fit my face that well, especially the forehead, eyes and upper lip areas
• There was a slight tingling sensation during use
• My combination skin felt hydrated after use. I did not apply other skincare products after mask application to notice its full effects.
• My sensitive skin did not had any adverse reaction to it, even the morning after. No new pimples, no bumps and no redness were noticed.
• I do like Timeless Truth sheet mask. But it is not a must-buy. I feel that My Beauty Diary or The Face Shop works just as well, and those brands are more affordable.

The sheet mask does not fit well for my eyes and nose area. I had to fold in the mask around the upper lip area.

REVIEW: banila co. brow auto pencil in deep brown

Double-ended eyebrow pencil

The twist function of the brow pencil 

In Deep Brown (03)

Angled eyebrow pencil

~AG~

 

Bought this Banila co. Brow Auto Pencil when I was in Korea this past June. It retailed for KRW 9,500 (~S$12). This brow product was not part of my shopping list, but the saleslady at the Banila co. store in Doota mall was very kind and helpful. That motivated me to buy more products from Banila co. On my previous trip to Korea, I had bought a CC Cushion and CC Cream from Banila Co. Though, those products did not work for me. I am willing to try their other products.   

 

Korean actresses and singers are known for their thick, straight brows. The Korean brows gives a more fresh and youthful look. Decided to buy more brow products during my trip to Korea because I hardly do them. I am totally clueless on doing my own brows. The responsibility of eyebrow shaping is usually taken by the lady that does my eyebrow threading. With that being said, my brows are usually au naturel except for the occasional eyebrow gel.

 

Being a dummy on eyebrow makeup, it was a trial-and-error process. Compared to Benefit Brow Zings that I have used previously, Banila co. Brow Auto Pencil gives a more natural finish. It is not as pigmented as the Benefit Brow Zings. It does take a few strokes for the pigment to show up on my brows. The pigment is more suitable for everyday use. It stays on all-day and does not fade. The shade Deep Brown (03) perfectly matches my black hair and medium skin tone. It is a retractable brow pencil that do not need sharpening, making it travel-friendly.

 

I find brow pencil more difficult to use than brow powder. It is easy to get heavy handed while filling in your brows with a pencil. Even though eyebrow pencil is the "older" brow product on the market, more skills are required to fill in your brows with a pencil. For those that are new to eyebrow makeup, I would recommend an eyebrow powder/gel combo. It is definitely much easier to use! In conclusion, I would not repurchase this product because I would rather stick to my eyebrow gel and powders instead.