NEW BUY: Drugstore Haul

 My haul from Target

~AG~

My favorite place to browse through drugstore products in the United States is Target. It has a great selection of beauty products at reasonable prices. As I write this post, I miss Target beauty aisles even more. 

Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara 

US $6.99 (S$10)

-- It is the first patented fanning brush with 10 layers of bristles to create a full fan effect.

EOS Hand Lotion in Berry Blossom 

US$1.99 (SS$3)

-- The palm-sized packaging is cute. This hand lotion contains shea butter, aloe and oats to keep hands soft and smooth. It is fast absorbing and also non-greasy. 

Aquaphor Lip Repair 
US$3.97 (S$4)
-- This drugstore favorite relieves dry and chapped lips. It provides long-lasting moisture for the lips. Formulated with Shea Butter and Chamomile for well-moisturized lips.

Physician Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush 
US$10.63 (S$15.50)
-- This blush is infused with Happy Boost Blend containing Happy Skin and Euphoryl, natural plant extracts which have been shown to promote a feeling of happiness by mimicking the effect of Endorphins (feel-good hormone) and protecting the skin against environmental aggressors. 

Physician Formula Eye Booster 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum 
US$9.63 (S$14)
-- This special product enhances the appearance of lashes while providing definition an eyeliner. Lash Boosting Complex targets the base of the lashes where it is most effective. The eyeliner claims to be water-resistant and smudge-resistant.  

Yes to Miracle Oil primRose Oil Mud Mask 
US$2.50 (S$3.70)
-- This mud mask contains primrose oil to soothe skin and calm redness. The mask leaves skin feeling cool and hydrated. 

Covergirl Full Lash Bloom Waterproof Mascara 
US$6.99 (S$10)
-- I am a big hand of Covergirl mascaras. This is mascara has petal-shaped brush and soft mousse formula to create full lashes that are not stiff nor brittle.

REVIEW: Too Faced Peanut Butter & Jelly Eyeshadow Palette

  ~AG~

This is my second Too Faced eyeshadow palette in my collection. Many years ago, like in 2009, I bought a Too Faced eyeshadow palette. It was around the time when they were popular for their Natural Eye Neutral Eyeshadow that came in a boxed packaging. 

 

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Eyeshadow palette was a birthday gift from a friend. First thing I noticed was the familiar scent of eye shadows. It really smells like PBJ! This palette contains 9 matte and shimmer shades that are inspired by peanut butter & jelly. The shades: Spread the Love, Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter Cup, Bananas, Peanut Brittle, Jammin, Extra Creamy, Jelly and Nuts About You. The eye shadows are infused with antioxidant rich cocoa powder. The palette comes with a handy booklet that shows you how to combine the shades.

REVIEW: Too Faced Born This Way Naturally Radiant Concealer

Too Faced Born This Way Naturally Radiant Concealer

~AG~

This Too Faced Born This Way Naturally Radiant Concealer is my new makeup must-have! This sponge-tip applicator concealer is handy to have in your makeup bag. It is easy to use and great for on-the-go. Having been plagued with severe dark circles ever since I was a teenager, there is this never-ending quest to find THE perfect under eye concealer. I have tried more than 10 under eye concealers/correctors - Bobbi Brown Corrector, Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer, Cle de Peau Beaute Concealer, Laura Mercier Camouflage Concealer, Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, Benefit Cosmetics Fakeup Hydrating Under Eye Concealer, Benefit Cosmetics ErasePaste, YSL Touche Eclat and many more. 

After trying a few other concealers at Sephora, the saleslady there recommended Too Faced Born This Way Naturally Radiant Concealer. The shade she selected for me is Light Medium which has peach undertones. The saleslady mentioned that Too Faced Radiant Concealer contains Coconut Water which replenishes skin's moisture level. She noticed that my under eye area was dry and said that this concealer would be suitable for my skin type, as it also contains Hyaluronic Acid. When she tested Too Faced Radiant Concealer on my under eye areas, it matched my skin tone well and did not accentuate my dry patches. The texture of this concealer is not thick at all. It has a lightweight consistency and does not feel creamy. 

The true test of this concealer was whether this Too Faced Concealer will stay on well in Singapore's humid weather. Surprisingly, Too Faced Radiant Concealer was long-lasting. It did not crease in Singapore's hot and humid conditions. Even after 8 hours of wear, the concealer did not crease nor did it melt off. I put 3-4 dots of concealer on each under eye area, and then blend it with my ring fingers. I do not even use a powder to set the concealer, and it lasts all day! True to its claims, my under eyes area does not feel dry at all. It also contains Alpine Rose to brighten and boost skin's radiance. This concealer has medium coverage and works great for covering dark circles and minor blemishes. It blends well into the skin and creates a smooth finish. 

Too Faced Born This Way Naturally Radiant Concealer is available in 10 shades. It comes with 0.7 ml of concealer and retails for US $28 (S$40). It is a rather expensive price tag for a concealer but you only need little product to cover your blemishes and dark circles. I highly recommend this concealer to those that have dry under eyes area or have dry skin. The lightweight texture is long-lasting and looks natural. 

NEW BUY: Ulta Haul

 ~AG~

Let me introduce you to Ulta Beauty which can be found in the U.S.A. Ulta Beauty is similar to Sephora though they also carry drugstore brands such as Maybelline, NYX, Cover Girl, as well as a variety of hair care products. I <3 walking through Ulta Beauty to browse their mini-sized version of beauty products.

Here are some things that I purchased from Ulta Beauty:

1) Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo US$12 (S$17)

For days when I wake up late and do not have time to wash my hair. I have tried several dry shampoo before and this dry shampoo is my favorite yet. It does not leave any white residue on dark hair. Plus, it really absorbs oil and leaves hair feeling fresh. 

2) Benefit Dandelion Mini US$15 (S$21)

Sharon Park, my makeup artist used this blush on me for the prewed shoot and it surprisingly showed up well on my skin. Since I still have a handful of other blushes in my collection, getting a mini version makes me less guilty. Hehe ^_^

3) IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Corrector in Medium US$29 (S$41)

My sister, MG, asked me to try the IT Cosmetics Undereye Concealer. 

What really attracted me to this product was the claim that it is "8 hours of sleep in a jar". It contains green coffee extract, cucumber, avocado, aloe, peptides, niacin and hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed collagen. All these beneficial ingredients must be of some help to my dark circles. *cross my fingers*

The corrector has a creamy texture that is lightweight. 

4) Eco Tools Deluxe Fan Brush US$5.99 (S$9)

A fan brush has been on my wishlist for a while. A fan brush is great for applying a light finish of highlighters or powders. Eco Tools is a great drugstore brand for brushes. I bought some Eco Tools brushes 4 or 5 years ago, and it still works well! The bristles are soft and it does not shed much. 

5) Eco Tools Eye Perfecting CC Brush US$5.99 (S$9)

This is part of Eco Tools new collection, Complexion Collection. This rounded tip brush mimics the shape of a finger for easy application of cream, concealers and moisturizers around or under the eyes. This brush results in less tugging around the sensitive eye area.

REVIEW: Skin Inc. My Daily Dose Custom-Blended Serum

My limited edition Daily Dose in Serenity packaging 

~AG~

This custom-blended serum from Skin Inc. has been part of my skincare regimen for about two weeks now. My Daily Dose contains three different types of serum:

1. Vitamin A Serum for uneven skin tone and dark circles. This serum combats skin dullness and sign of tiredness around the eyes. It comes with a patented pink seaweed capsules.Pink seaweed capsules
2. Licorice Serum to calm sensitive and irritated skin and pimples. Licorice Serum contains Green Tea Extracts that calm the skin and has antioxidant properties. It comes with patented purple seaweed capsule. Purple seaweed capsules
3. Ceramide Serum solves roughness, dry and skin sensitivity. Ceramide Serum features four different types of Ceramides that strengthen the skin barrier and soothe dehydrated and sensitized skin. It comes with patented turquoise seaweed capsule. Green seaweed capsules

I was most excited to use this serum because it could solve all skincare woes. My skin is prone to pimples especially around the T-zone areas. Also, my severe dark circles have been a constant concern. On top of that, my skin is ultra sensitive and tend to react negatively to certain skin care products. According to the saleslady, the serums from Skin Inc. are water-based, and thus it is safe to use for my under eye areas.  The pure active ingredient is contained in the different colored seaweed capsules. 

So what are my thoughts on this S$169 customized serum?
From my experience, there should be more capsules included in the serum. If you look at the serum, you would think that there is plenty of capsules. However, when you use the dropper, there are times when there are no capsules in each drop. You are supposed to use 3 drops of the serum for your entire face. Often times, one out of the three drops does not contain any capsules. Then, I would have to add in another drop - using more serum that recommended. Since the capsules are the ones containing the active ingredients target skin issues. 

I would not repurchase this Skin Inc. My Daily Dose Custom-Blended Serum because different skin areas have different issues. For example, Vitamin A serum was supposed to be for dark circles but it ended up . However, because the seaweed capsules have been mixed, I cannot target the pink seaweed capsules solely for my under eyes area. The same can be said for the Licorice serum which was supposed to be only for my acne-prone areas such as forehead, nose and chin. 

REVIEW: Avène Cleanance HYDRA Soothing Cream

~AG~

One of my favourite thing to do while travelling abroad is browse through the local drugstore (pharmacies) aisles. During my recent trip to Italy, I dropped by a "Farmacia" to look at their offering of skincare products. Avène is my recent go-to brand. This French brand works well for ultra sensitive skin. Avène Cleanance product line is targeted  for acne-prone skin.

This Avène Clearance HYDRA Soothing Cream costs €14.90 (S$23). It comes with 40 ml of product, and should be discarded after six months of use. The product description were all in Italian so I had to google about this Avène Soothing Cream while in-store. According to Avène website, this product offsets the drying and irritating effects of medicinal acne treatments. My skin has been on the dry side recently. During my hair and makeup trial for my nuptial, the makeup artist commented that my skin was dry and that I needed to take good care of it. Dry skin causes the foundation to cake up. Not a good sight! My skin was especially dry around my nose area where I had applied topical acne treatment.

This Avène HYDRA Soothing Cream contains moisturizing ingredients such as coconut, shea butter and jojoba oil. In addition to my dry skin condition, the cold and windy climate of Italy left my skin feeling tight with dry patches. My usually combination skin type felt uncomfortable. Without any hesitation, Avène Soothing Cream was added to my shopping cart because it is designed for acne-prone skin. There was no worries of breakouts or adverse reactions to this product.  

To test the efficacy of this Avène Soothing Cream, I opted not to use my regular moisturizer and solely used this product for hydration purposes. The texture of Avène Soothing Cream was not thick nor was it creamy. It has somewhat of a gel texture. Though, it is not as lightweight as Crème Simon Moisturizer. It felt more hydrating than my HG Laneige Water Bank Essence. My skin did not feel sticky after application and the product was absorbed well into the skin. 

The next morning, my skin was well hydrated and did not feel dry at all! Avène Soothing Cream really helped to combat my dry, flaky skin. This Avène Soothing Cream is especially suitable for those with very dry skin or during the Winter months. I am glad I found a hydrating cream that is not too heavy for my acne-prone skin. My ultra sensitive skin did not any adverse reaction to this product as well. In Singapore's humid weather, this Avène Soothing Cream works better as a targeted treatment instead of being part of a daily skincare regimen. Will highly recommend Avène Soothing Cream for those that travel frequently, especially to countries with drier climate.

REVIEW: DRX Clinic Journey Part 10

Credits to DRX Clinic

~AG~

After 10 days in Italy, my skin suffered from some serious breakouts. Many tiny pimples appeared on my eyebrows and forehead areas. I had stopped taking Spironolactone 5 months ago, and my skin was doing alright. But the daily intake of dairy products caused my skin to go crazy. I needed help ASAP. On the day I arrived in Singapore, I scheduled an appointment with Dr. Tsu. Since my prewedding shoot is in less than two weeks, my skin woes had to be addressed quickly. 

After telling Dr. Tsu my skin woes, he advised to take Spironolactone again. My concern was that Spironolactone takes a while to see the effects. Last time, it took about three weeks before I could see my skin improving. My prior prescription was for two tablets of Spironolactone in the morning. Now, Dr. Tsu advised to increase the dosage since I wanted a faster result. He prescribed two tablets twice a day. Dr. Tsu did point out that taking a higher dose of Spironolactone could result in an irregular period cycle - meaning period coming earlier or later than usual, or having two periods in a cycle. That sounded scary to me. When I was first on Spironolactone, my period the month after was unbearable. I asked Dr. Tsu whether that could have been due to Spironolactone, he replied that his other patients did not mention that as a side effect. Though, my chronic period paid could have been because of the medication. For the sake of beautiful skin, medication it is. 

Dr. Tsu prescribed Spironolactone for a month. Let see whether the extra strong dosage will help combat the pimples. My goal is to use this medication short-term, as in for a month or less only. Wish me luck! Dr. Tsu Profile

NEW BUY: Shiseido Warehouse Sale

~AG~

Recently went to the Shiseido Warehouse sale. It was a treat! So many brands such as NARS, Ettusais, Shiseido, Cle de Peau Beaute, ZA, Maquillage, Shiseido Professional Haircare, Aqualabel, Tsubaki, Majolica Majorca and more. I did not go too crazy with the haul

1) Shiseido Professional Sleekliner Smoother (S$28)
This leave-in conditioner keeps hair smooth and manageable, by protecting it from the influence of heat and humidity. It contains 125 ml of product.

2) Shiseido Fuente Vita Voltage Treatment (S$12)
This treatment helps soften the scalp. It also contains moisturizing properties to make hair more resilient. It comes with 240 g of product.

3) NARS Narsissist Hardwired Eye Kit (S$40)
This eyeshadow palette contains six shades, and comes with a travel-sized brush and brown eyeliner. This purchase was a steal! It typically retails for S$80. 

4) Ettusais BB Mineral Compact (S$15)
This pressed powder is gentle enough for acne-prone skin. It conceals pores and brightens the skin. Having tried Ettusais Quick Fix Powder previously, I find it to be finely milled and soft. It does not cake nor does it accentuate fine lines. Decided to try this BB Mineral Compact this time.

5) Ettusais Pore Care Lotion Dual Effect
A lightweight oil-control moisturizer that controls sebum production, acne formation and reduce visible pores.


6)Ettusais Skin Version Up Super x 2 (S$5) 
This product preps your skin for moisturizer. It softens the skin's surfaces and maximize absorption of other skincare products. Its Ac-Control Oil hydrates, treats and prevents acne.     

REVIEW: MAC Cosmetics Pro Long Wear Paint Pot in Vintage Selection

MAC Paint Pot in Vintage Selection

It comes in a glass packaging 

~AG~

Discovered this cream eye shadow by MAC Cosmetics when I was in university. This long-lasting cream shadow comes in an array of colors. MAC Cosmetics offers matte as well as shimmery finish. This MAC Paint Pot costs US$22 (S$30) for 5 g of product. MAC Paint Pot claims to last for 15 hours without flaking or caking. MAC also claims that Paint Pot is water-resistant.

I would describe the color as a bronze pink

This cream shadow is simple to use. For a fuss-free way, simply use your fingers. You can also use a brush to apply the cream shadow. The texture of the cream shadow is smooth and not too soft. It does not crease even in Singapore's humid climate. It is highly pigmented and does not fade away throughout the day. Vintage Selection (A33) is described as a frosted dirty peach. But I would describe it as a bronze with pink undertones. The color is beautiful and flatters my medium skin tone. This shade is great for everyday day use. It brightens my eye area with its fine shimmers. The shimmers in Vintage Selection did not irritate my eyes.  Yay! Some shimmery Korean eyeshadows such as Etude House or Espoir for some reason irritate my eyes.

I would totally recommend MAC Cosmetics Paint Pot to anyone that is looking for a long-lasting eyeshadow for everyday use. It is so easy to use, and great for on-the-go! I would not hesitate to check out the other selections from MAC Paint Pot. 

After wiping the area with tissue, there was still an ample amount of cream eyeshadow

NEW BUY: Bobbi Brown Dark Brow Kit & Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner Duo Set

~AG~

Bobbi Brown Dark Brow Kit (S$62)
This eyebrow kit includes a mini Tweezer and mini Brow Bush. The shades, Saddle and Mahogany, are for black and brown hair. One of my aunts who is good at doing her own makeup recommended this eyebrow kit. She said that Bobbi Brown's brow powders are more natural than the wax and powder combo of Benefit Cosmetics Brow Zings. It is pricey for an eyebrow kit. An innisfree eyebrow powder kit only costs less than S$20. Bobbi Brown's brown kit is THREE times the price of an innisfree brow kit! Hope the price tag is worth it!
 
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner Duo Set (S$59)
This duo set includes the gel eyeliners in Black Ink and Sepia Ink, with a mini Ultra Fine Eye Liner brush. Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner is Bobbi Brown's bestselling product. This award-winning gel eyeliner is a staple of many makeup artists. While doing my eye makeup for an event, I realized that having a gel liner is critical when tight-lining the eyes. I was using a felt-tip liner and it took a while to tight-line my waterlines. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner is not a new product. Previously, I had tried it when I was living in the States. But somehow, this gel eyeliner seemed to smudge off. However, last year, when a makeup artist used it on me on two occasions, this gel eyeliner did not run or smudge off at all. So, I am going to give this Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner another chance. *cross fingers*   

Stay tuned for my review of Bobbi Brown Dark Brow Kit & Gel Eyeliner Duo Set! 

REVIEW: Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel

200 ml of cleansing gel that can lasts me for 6 months

 ~AG~
NEW BUY: Avene Cleanance Cleansing Gel

It has been four months since I started using Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel, and I am more than halfway through. 

So what can I say about this Cleansing Gel for acne-prone skin?
Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel comes in a twist top packaging. The mouth of the twist cap is small so that there will be less chances of over-pouring of the cleansing gel. This cleanser is gentle for my skin. My ultra sensitive skin did not have any adverse reaction to this Cleansing Gel. This cleanser, designed for oily skin type, did not over-dry my skin as well. No skin tightness after facial cleansing. *thumbs up* This Avène foaming cleanser has a fresh oceanic scent that I enjoy. This cleanser claims to have mattifying properties that is supposed to regulate the overproduction of sebum. However, I did not particularly notice its mattifying effects. Overall, it has good cleansing properties.

In conclusion, Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel is a good cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin. For 200ml worth of cleanser, it should lasts me for at least six months. Thus, making its price tag of S$29.90 worth it! Will definitely recommend this Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel for those with oily or combination skin type. This is one facial cleanser that I will re-purchase without hesitation.

AG's September Faves

Source: Club Clio

Clio Waterproof Brush Eyeliner Killer Brown
This long-lasting eyeliner has a fine tip that is so easy to use. This eyeliner does not smudge at all! Plus, this Clio Eyeliner is affordable at under S$25. Click link for my in-depth review of Clio Brush Eyeliner Kill Brown

Source: Mediheal

Mediheal Collage Impact Essential Mask
My skin became dry and flakey after my trip to China. Tried applying the Crème Simon Sleeping Mask but it was not hydrating enough. This Mediheal sheet mask truly helped to replenish moisture back into the skin. The effect of Mediheal Collagen Mask could be felt the next morning. My skin did not feel tight, and flakiness was greatly reduced. This is a great mask to have in your beauty arsenal! Click link for my full review of Mediheal Collagen Mask

Source: Neutrogena UK

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Nourishing Lip Care with Nordic Berry
Bought this Neutrogena Lip Care when I was in Seoul, and after using it, I <3 it! The Nordic Berry scent is wonderful! This Neutrogena Lip Care works well to hydrate dry lips. It is not sticky nor does it leave a residue. The staying power is decent at 1-2 hours with eating and drinking.

Source: VDL Cosmetics

VDL Tint Bar Triple Shot in Triple Red
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this VDL Tint Bar Triple Shot! If this product were to be discontinued, I would buy many backups of it. It has great staying power! The colors are so pretty, and it is pretty hydrating for a lip tint. I do not have to put on lip balm before applying VDL Tint Bar Triple Shot. Click link for MG's review of VDL Tint Bar Triple Shot

Q&A: Fresh Umbrian Clay Oil-Free Lotion

50 ml of product

Comes with a cap to protect the pump 

~MG~
Q: How much did you buy Fresh Umbrian Clay Oil-Free Lotion for?
A: Bought it from Changi Airport Shilla Duty Free for S$58.60. It is a good idea to buy beauty products at the airport because it is tax-free.

Q: Why did you decide to try this Fresh Umbrian Clay Oil-Free Lotion?
A: Been wanting to try this Fresh Umbrian Clay Oil-Free Lotion for years. This lotion is designed for oily skin type. The Umbrian Clay claims to regulate sebum production and absorbs impurities from pores. Because I have oily T-zones, I thought it would help balance my skin. The fact that it is oil-free is also a plus.

Q: How long have you been using this lotion?
A: For about two months daily. I use this Fresh lotion in the morning only. At night, I switch to a more hydrating face moisturizer.

Q: What do you like about this product? 
A: The pump packaging is very convenient. The plastic packaging is worry-free for traveling. This is lightweight lotion. It moisturizes and soothes my skin after application. In my honest opinion, it does help to regulate sebum production in my T-zones. Though my cheeks area felt tight after use. Compared to Fresh Rose Cream, my skin is less oily with the use of Fresh Umbrian Clay Lotion.

Q: What do you want to improve about this product?
A: This lotion can be too dry if you spend a large amount of time in air-conditioning rooms. In my experience, my cheeks area feel dry an hour after I applied the lotion in my air-conditioned office. If I know I will be taking a flight, I will use two pumps of lotion to better hydrate my skin especially the cheeks area. It does not help reduce blackheads or prevent pimples. I thought the clay ingredients would have helped with reducing blemishes. 

Q: Would you recommend this lotion to your friends? A: Would not recommend this Fresh Umbrian Clay Lotion because it is too drying for my cheeks area. This oil-free lotion might work better for someone that has a truly oily skin type. My skin type is somewhat oily and combination skin.

REVIEW: Skinfood Pine Nut Cuticle Oil

8ml of cuticle oil that moisturises and nourishes the nails

~MG~

Before I go on talking about this product, let me share with you a little (embarrassing) history of myself. Everyone who knows me in the past knows that I am someone who always have super short nails with bad hangnails. My cuticles were real nasty. I couldn’t stop myself from peeling it, which eventually will end up bleeding and resulted in uglier nails. My fingernails were not ladylike at all! In the past, I could not keep long nails, I couldn’t stand the how it looked, often times yellowish at the tip. I could not be bothered to paint my nails because 1) I do not know how to paint my own fingernails, and 2) Even if my nails were painted, it would chipped off in 1-2 days!, 3) I am too lazy to go to the nail shop for have it painted. However, all these changed when I wanted to prettied-up myself for a wedding celebration and decided to try out Gelish manicure! I was amazed at its long-lasting power! Thanks to Gel manicure, I could now have lady-like fingers! Long colourful nails with healthy cuticle! No more hangnails! I feel more like a real lady now! Ever since I did Gel manicure, I kept going back to the nail shop to beautify my nails. To fully ensure that there will be no return of hangnails and ugly cuticles, I decided to include using cuticle oil in my daily skincare routine. Before flying off to Seoul this recent February, I did a research on Korean cuticle oil and this Skinfood’s Pine Nut Cuticle Oil took the top of my cuticle oil ranking. However, it was not easy getting this product. Not all the Skinfood stores carry the Pine Nut Cuticle Oil. But I was determined to get it! And when I finally found it, I bought 2 at once! Kinda wished that I bought more but AG always make fun of my beauty stock. She always joke that with the insane amount of new beauty products in my beauty stock, I could open a cosmetic store! I use this every night as the last step of my night skincare routine. I would brush a thin layer of the product across all my cuticles and slightly massaged it. After using this cuticle oil nightly, my cuticle looks even healthier! My Gel nails could now last up to 4 weeks instead of the usual 2 weeks, without it chipping off. To help your painted nails to last longer and without any chippping, it is important to have your cuticles moisturized. It has been 4 months since I have started using the product and it still have 1/3 of the product left. Thus, this cuticle oil is a super value for money because it only cost around 5,000KRW (~ SGD 6)! I would recommend all ladies with manicured or non-manicured nails to start using the Skinfood’s pine nut cuticle oil! The next time I see this cuticle oil in store, I would definitely go home with more than 2 bottles!

Photo Credit: Skinfood Pine Nut Cuticle Oil

Q&A: Nature Republic Ultra Fresh Jeju Carbonic H20 Cleansing Water

 

A large bottle of cleansing water. 510 ml bottle

~MG~
NEW BUY: Nature Republic Ultra Fresh Carbonic Water

Q: Why did you buy Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water?
A: I saw this Cleansing Water being recommended on Get it Beauty, a Korean beauty TV show. In Get it Beauty blind test, Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water won first place. It beat highly popular Bioderma Sensibio H20 to get the top rank. 

Q: What do you like about Nature Republic Ultra Fresh Jeju Carbonic H20 Cleansing Water?
A: The affordable price! It costs me less than S$20 for 510 ml of cleansing water! Much more affordable than Bioderma H20 which cost S$40 for 500ml. Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water is 1/2 the price of Bioderma Sensibio H20. This Nature Republic Cleansing Water cleanses off my sunscreen, moisturiser, eye cream, serum and the dirt on my face well.  

Q: How long have you been using Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water?
A: Started using this Cleansing Water in May, it has been 4 months. I use this Cleansing Water generously everyday, and I am not even half way done. I usually use 3 cotton pads to remove all the gunk on my face. 

Q: Did your skin condition improved with the use of Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water?
A: My skin did not see any noticeable improvements after the use of this Cleansing Water. It did not brighten my skin tone nor tighten my pores. It works well to cleanse my face, but it does not have much skin conditioning properties. It does have some hydrating properties, as my skin does not feel tight after using it. 

Q: How does Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water compare to other cleansing waters that you have tried?
A: Compared to La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution, Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water has a better cleaning properties. It is comparable to Bioderma Sensibio H20. Though, it is not fair to compare it to Bioderma Sebium H20, as the latter has anti-acne properties. Another thing to note, is that Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water is more scented than Bioderma Sensibio H20. Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water has a sweet floral scent.

Q: Would you repurchase this Nature Republic Carbonic Cleansing Water?
A: Even though I like its cleansing abilities, I would like my cleansing water to have anti-acne (antibacterial) properties. Though, if you do not have acne-prone skin, I would recommend this Nature Republic Cleansing Water to you. 

NEW BUY: Skin Inc. My Daily Dose Custom-Blended Serum

My Daily Dose in Serenity- Pantone 2016 (Limited Edition)

 ~AG~

This custom-blended serum from Skin Inc. has always been on my wishlist. I <3 the idea of creating your own serum to meet your skin needs. Skin Inc. has this My Daily Dose Custom-Blended Serum. You get to select three different nourishing serums and have it concocted especially for you. Plus, you get to chose the color of the packaging. The packaging comes in 7 bright colors. Happened to pass by their retail store at Ion Orchard and decided to check them out. The helpful saleslady asked me to fill out a skin check questionnaire so that suitable serums can be selected for my skin type and lifestyle. Skin Inc. has 10 types of serum to combat different skin issues! Check their website for the full selection of Skin Inc. Nourishing Serums

The results of my questionnaire are:
-- Vitamin A Serum for uneven skin tone and dark circles. This serum combats skin dullness and sign of tiredness around the eyes. It comes with a patented pink seaweed capsules.
-- Licorice Serum to calm sensitive and irritated skin and pimples. Licorice Serum contains Green Tea Extracts that calm the skin and has antioxidant properties. It comes with patented purple seaweed capsules
-- Ceramide Serum solves roughness, dry and skin sensitivity. Ceramide Serum features four different types of Ceramides that strengthen the skin barrier and soothe dehydrated and sensitized skin. It comes with patented turquoise seaweed capsules.

My Daily Dose Serum costs S$169 for 30 ml of serum. According to the saleslady, 30 ml of serum should lasts for at least two months with daily use. You use about 2-3 drops of the serum each time.   Since it is a water-based serum, you can apply the serum to your undereyes area as well. Cannot wait to try it out! Hope it works to combat my pimples and dark circles. Stay tuned for my review!

REVIEW: Laneige Brightening Sparkling Water Foam Cleanser

 

Laneige Brightening Sparking Water Foam Cleanser exclusive to Target

~MG~
This rich, whipped foam cleanser is infused with purifying Sparkling Water sourced from the South of France. Its ultra - light formula, enriched with minerals and nutrients, hydrates and enhances skin turnover to reveal a more luminous complexion. Five Multi - fruit AHAs, extracted from bilberries, sugar maple, sugar cane, lemons and oranges, gently exfoliate for smoother, brighter skin. An invigorating cleansing experience for truly radiant skin. Brightens, detoxifies and exfoliates for clearer, smoother skin.
http://intl.target.com/p/laneige-150-ml-foam-basic-cleansing-facial-cleanser/-/A-16643906

Bought this Laneige Brightening Sparkling Water Foam Cleanser during my last trip to the States. I was so excited to see Laneige products being sold in Target. This Laneige Foam Cleanser usually retails for US$23, but I bought it when it was on sale. Laneige products are typically quite good. But this is the WORST Laneige product that I have tried. 150 ml. Apply to dry face, use a ping-pong ball-sized amount of foam. There was no tingling sensation when washing my face with the foam cleanser. This cleanser would not be suitable for in-shower use. Since I usually wash my face in the shower, this foam cleanser was an inconvenient addition to my routine. The texture of the foam was unusual. It was a dense foam, and was rather patchy. The foam come out looking like a scrub. Compared to Biore Whip Cleanser, Laneige Brightening Sparkling Water Foam Cleanser texture is sub-par. My skin feels squeaky clean and quite tight after washing. This Foam Cleanser might be too drying for those with dry or normal skin types. The packaging is not travel friendly as it is bulky and comes in an aerosol can. This is my least liked Laneige product. Would NOT recommend this Laneige Brightening Sparking Water Foam Cleanser to anyone.

REVIEW: Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Chopper

~AG~

Always been a big fan of Urban Decay's eyeshadow. The textures of UD eyeshadows are ultra smooth. The pigmentation is great, and the eyeshadow is long-lasting. Having own Naked Eyeshadow Palette, Naked 3 Eyeshadow Palette and the Naked Basics Eyeshadow Palette, I felt that I could not go wrong with any Urban Decay eyeshadow. Chopper is a shimmery copper tone. This eyeshadow was initially for my mother, she wanted a neutral everyday eyeshadow. When I first swatched it in store, the color was nice. My mother tend to lean towards brown tones so I thought this eyeshadow would be suitable for her. It would be a nice shade to brighten the eyes area. This UD single eyeshadow retails at Shilla Duty Free Changi Aiport for S$24.20. That is a steep price for a single eyeshadow. However, I thought the quality of Urban Decay warrants that price. 

So what did I think about Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Chopper?

My mother returned the eyeshadow to me as she said it was too shimmery. I was puzzled with her feedback because I have never found Urban Decay eyeshadows overly shimmery. Decided to try this eyeshadow for myself. Chopper is a nice cooper shade. It is not too orange or too brown for my medium skin tone. However, when I applied the eyeshadow with my ring fingers, I noticed fallouts to my lower eyes area. Furthermore, the shimmers are not as fine as other UD eyeshadows. The shimmer bits were rather visible. Towards the end of the day, the shimmers transferred to my lower eyelids and irritated my eyes. So so disappointed with this Urban Decay eyeshadow. Chopper is a black sheep of the Urban Decay eyeshadow lineup. They have screwed up with the production of this eyeshadow. *thumbs down*