REVIEW: Caudalie Make-Up Removing Cleansing Oil

 ~AG~

Bought this Caudalie Make-Up Removing Cleansing Oil a year ago. It was purchased from a pharmacy in Milan, Italy. I cannot remember how much it costs. But Caudalie's website is selling the 150ml one for EURO 16. 

Caudalie Make-Up Removing Cleansing Oil works to dissolve all types of make-up, including waterproof, whilst removing impurities and cleansing the skin. The blend of 100% naturally derived plant oils nourishes and softens the skin without leaving a greasy film. Ideal for those looking for quick and highly effective make-up removal. 

This Caudalie Cleansing Oil is non-comedogenic so it would be suitable for those with clogged or acne-prone skin. Just use one pump to remove my eye makeup. With eyes closed, I gently massage the cleansing oil around the eyes area then rinse it off with warm water. The Caudalie Cleansing Oil emulsify when it comes in contact with water. It effectively removes my waterproof eyeliner. I find the Cleansing Oil is more gentle to remove my makeup then using a cotton pad with makeup remover. It thoroughly removes eyeliner which usually takes me 2 soaked cotton pad and a cotton bud to remove, especially the lash line.  

Would definitely repurchase this Caudalie Cleansing Oil the next time I am in Europe as it is cheaper to buy this French skincare brand there. 

REVIEW: Biore Eye & Lip Makeup Remover

~AG~ This popular makeup remover from Biore has been in my beauty arsenal for over 5 months now, and there is still one-third of product left. Bought this Biore Makeup Remover from Guardian for S$12.90. Drugstore makeup removers are my favorites, as they work just as well as high-end makeup removers. This 150ml of makeup remover can be used to remove eye makeup as well as lip makeup. Its micro cleansing formula soften waterproof makeup for easy removal. Biore Makeup Remover is gentle on the eyes and lashes, which reduces the need for excessive tugging and wiping around the eye area. It contains hyaluronic acid to keep skin around the eyes moisturized. Like other waterproof makeup removers in the market, Biore Makeup Remover has a dual-phase content (there is an oil content and an aqueous content). Even though it is a dual-phase remover, it does not leaves an oily residue.

First, you have to shake the bottle well to mix the dual phase. Then, I usually use 2 cotton pads to remove my long-wearing eyeliner and waterproof mascara. It is best to leave the soaked cotton pad on for 5 seconds to melt the waterproof makeup before gently wiping it away. Biore Makeup Remover does not sting or irritate the eyes. 
 
I like Biore Eye & Lip Makeup Remover so much that I recently repurchased it. The makeup remover is easy-on-the-pockets, and a bottle can lasts for at least six months. I typically use waterproof eye makeup two to four times a week. A highly recommended drugstore product!

REVIEW: Boots Botanics All Bright Soothing Eye Makeup Remover

The girlish packaging of Boots Botanics Eye Makeup Remover

~AG~

A two-phase eye makeup remover uses dual layer technology. The oil phase to effectively sweep away makeup, dissolving waterproof formulations with ease. The aqueous phase helps to soothe and calm the eye area. It contains Hibiscus which has brightening properties. Natural AHAs from the Hibiscus flower act as mild exfoliation to help leave skin smoother and brighter. This eye makeup remover is also free of parabens. Previously, I have tried the older version of Boots Organic Eye Makeup Remover in the States. Several years have passed, so it is about time to test this newly formulated eye makeup remover. What attracted me to this Boots Botanics Eye Makeup Remover is the claim that it contains mild exfoliation properties. It is uncommon for eye makeup removers to contain AHAs. 

Where to purchase: 
Unfortunately, Boots skincare or makeup is not available in Singapore. I bought this eye makeup remover at Boots pharmacy in Bangkok, Thailand. For those in State side, this Boots eye makeup remover can found in Target. 

Affordability: 

Bought this for 195 Thai Baht (S$8). This is one of the most budget-friendly eye makeup remover that I have bought. 150 ml for less than 10 bucks, what a steal!

Effectiveness:
Boots Botanics Eye Makeup Remover works on waterproof eyeliners and mascaras. Two cotton pads are enough to remove my eye makeup. The first time I used Boots Botanics Eye Makeup Remover, everything was okay. However, during my second and third use, my under eyes area stung. *puzzled* It was not an unbearable sensation, but it was rather unpleasant. My theory is that the AHAs cause the stinging sensation since it is exfoliating the under eye area.  

I will not repurchase Boots Botanics All Bright Soothing Eye Makeup Remover. This eye makeup remover stings my eye area. I was sorely disappointed and had high hopes for it! It might be more suitable for those with less sensitive skin. Even though Boots Botanics Eye Makeup Remover is effective in removing waterproof eye makeup and is cheap, I rather skip the stinging sensation. 

UPDATE: The skin around my eyes showed signs of dry patches. Slight peeling of the skin especially around the under eyes area. This Boots Botanics All Bright Soothing Eye Makeup Remover is a definite NO! It is NOT soothing at all!

Overview of Eye Makeup Removers

~AG~

Maybelline Makeup Remover
One of the first eye makeup removers that I tried. It is a dual-phase remover that you have to shake vigorously before use. Overall, it is a decent eye makeup remover that is affordably priced @ S$2 (US $1.50) for 40ml at Watsons Singapore. To remove my waterproof mascaras and eyeliners, I use a cotton pad for each eye area. 

Up & Up Eye Makeup Remover
This is Target's own brand. It is a dupe of Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover. US $4.59 (US $6.50)  for ~160 ml. It is also a dual-phase remover, though the two contents are colourless. It is not as heavy duty as other eye makeup remover such as Lancome Bi Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover or Bifesta Eye Makeup Remover. It takes a lot more work to get rid of waterproof eye makeup, but for the price

Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover
This makeup remover is also a dual-phase content, so you have to shake it well before you. The only thing I have to say about Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover is that it is oilier than Bifesta Eye Makeup Remover, and Maybelline Makeup Remover. It is very similar to Lancome Bi Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover. It is quite costly @ US $9.50 (S$13) for 50 ml of product. Other more affordable eye makeup removers on this last can get the job done just as well such as Maybelline Makeup Remover. 

Bifesta Eye Makeup Remover
This very popular Japanese eye makeup remover works well. It takes about two cotton pads to completely remove my waterproof mascara. S$12.90 for 145ml of makeup remover. This affordable eye makeup remover is also a dual-phase 

Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
This drugstore eye makeup remover retails for US$4.49 (S$6.50) with 118ml worth of product. This makeup remover burnt my eyes. It was horrible! Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover also did not do a good job in removing waterproof mascaras. *thumbs down*

Lancome Bi Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover
This highly-rated eye makeup remover by Lancome is similar in texture with Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover, though it is pricier. US$15 (S$20) for 50 ml of makeup remover. It is has a higher oil content compared to Maybelline or Bifesta Makeup Remover. It does a good job in removing eye makeup, but other comparable makeup removers does the job too. I would not spend that much money of eye makeup remover again. 

Shu Uemura Anti/Oxi Skin Refining Cleansing Oil
This is not categorised as an eye makeup remover. But it is a cleansing oil that works for eye makeup as well. The texture of the oil is rather thick, which is great for removing stubborn makeup. However, for S$55 for 150ml, I would not specifically use this cleansing oil for eye makeup. It is too luxurious a product to use it solely for removing eye makeup. Though, this cleansing oil is especially great for removing lash glue and false eyelashes, it is the most gentle method to take it all of. 

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
Even though, the name mentions Oil-Free, it has a slight oily texture. This drugstore find costs US $6.19 (S$8.50) for 160ml. It is similar to Up &Up Eye Makeup Remover, in that both these products are not very effective in removing waterproof makeup. It takes more tugging to remove long-lasting mascaras which is not good for the sensitive undereyes area. 

L'oreal Gentle Lip and Eye Makeup Remover

This was one of the earliest eye makeup removers that I tried. This drugstore eye makeup remover is easy on the pockets @S$11.90 (US$9) for 125 ml. Compared to Maybelline Eye Makeup Remover, this L'oreal Gentle Lip and Eye Makeup Remover feels oilier, and is also more effective in dissolving waterproof mascaras. This dual-phase makeup remover is a constant fixture on my vanity table. It works great and is affordable. 

*** Out of all the eye makeup removers on this list, the #1 recommended product is Bifesta Eye Makeup Remover. It is very affordable, gentle on the eye area, and effectively removes waterproof makeup. The runners-up are L'oreal Gentle Lip and Eye Makeup Remover and Maybelline Makeup Remover. I find that it not worth it to buy high-end eye makeup removers, as there are plenty of affordable eye makeup removers that work just as well. Save some $ on eye makeup removers, and go with drugstore finds instead. Your pockets will thank you for it :)

AG & MG Beauty Award 2015

AG'S TOP 5 PRODUCT FINDS FOR 2015

SKINCARE 

Favorite makeup remover: Bioderma Sebium H20
- - Still on my favorite list for 2015! It is a must-have to remove sunscreen, makeup and impurities. Gentle on the skin, and effectively removes face makeup. The acne-fighting ingredients such as zinc gluconate and copper sulphate help purify the skin. My skin feels fresh after use.

Favorite toner: Derma-RX Toner
- - Never thought that toner is an essential part of skincare regimen till I met this Derma-RX Toner. It thoroughly preps my face for the next skincare steps. Plus, its AHAs content helps exfoliate my sensitive skin. 

MAKEUP

Favorite lip product: VDL Expert Color Lip Cube EX
- - Creamy texture. Very pigmented lip color, almost like a lip stain. Its unique packaging makes application super precise.  

Favorite eyeliner: Kiss Me Heroine Make Smooth Liquid Liner
- - Super fine eyeliner tip. It goes on smooth and stays on all-day! 

Favorite facial moisturizer: Laneige Water Bank Essence_EX
- - Perfect for my sensitive combination skin,  it hydrates my skin without leaving it feeling sticky. The scent is refreshingly oceanic.

MG'S TOP 5 PRODUCT FINDS FOR 2015

SKINCARE

Favorite toner/essence: SK-II Treatment Essence and SK-II Clear Lotion

::: I use the treatment essence and clear lotion twice a day.
Treatment essence has been consistently part of my skincare regimen since the start of this year.
Clear lotion has only been part of my skincare regimen since September of this year. Clear lotion has salicylic acid which helps fight off blemishes. It acts as a toner.

Favorite lip balm: Nivea Watering Lip Care
::: Because it goes on very smoothly. It leaves my lips well-moisturised without feeling sticky or leaving a residue. The thin and sleek packaging makes it handy to carry around.

Favorite cleanser: Korres Wild Rose Daily Brightening & Refining Buff Cleanser
::: My blackheads are reduced after I use this daily cleanser. It is a scrub that is gentle enough for every day use. 

MAKEUP

Favorite concealer: Cle de Peaue Beaute
::: Starting using this concealer this year. Because it is GOOD! It covers up my dark circles, acne scars and any redness. This concealer provides high coverage and fully hide my blemishes. Other concealers does not fully cover my acne scars. Plus, it lasts the whole day!

Favorite lip product: VDL Lip Tint
::: I love the color! It is nice! The texture is smoooth and it is moisturising. An easy way to create gradient lips.

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.

AG & MG Beauty Award 2014

AG'S TOP 5 PRODUCT FINDS FOR 2014

People always ask me what products are good. To tell you the truth, a product is subjective to many different factors. But after trying numerous beauty products, I can share a few advices on what is worth buying and what is not worth trying. In the year 2014, I discovered a few beauty products that have quickly became my favourites. Here are five products that have become holy grail (HG) products in my book.

Favourite Concealer: Cle de Peau Beaute Concealer in Ocher
The best concealer ever! It works well on dark circles as well as redness and zits. Great coverage and super smooth. Review Cle de Peau Beaute Concealer




Favourite Foundation: Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Foundation in 52 Vanille
This foundation has a light to medium coverage. I LOVE that it blends in perfectly to my skin, and gives a nice natural glow. It gives a more dewy effect than matte. Review Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum


Favourite Eyeliner: Lancôme Artliner Precision Felt Tip Liquid Liner
Waterproof. Long-lasting. The felt tip is very precise, and relatively easy to use.



Favourite Makeup Remover: Bioderma Sebium H20
I truly cannot live without this product. It has changed the way I remove my sunscreen and makeup. This is the best beauty product ever! Everyone should have a bottle of Bioderma in their beauty arsenal. It can be used to clean makeup brushes too. Review Bioderma Sebium


Favourite Skincare Product: Lancôme Advanced Genefique Youth Activating Concentrate
A serum that keeps my skin soft and smooth. Even my boyfriend commented on the improvement of my skin texture. It is a must-have in my skincare regimen!
Short Review of Lancome Advanced Genefique

MG'S TOP 5 PRODUCT FINDS FOR 2014

Bringing you my favorite 2014's beauty finds!

Favorite Moisturizer: Lanegie Water Bank Gel Cream_EX
The perfect moisturizer for Oily/Combo/Acne-prone skin! Already went through tub and tub of this gel-cream and am still using it because I really really love love it!

Favorite Facial Oil: Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil

I loved using it when I was living in the U.S. Thought I won't be able to enjoy using it when I moved back to Singapore because of the hot and humid weather but I was wrong. Now every night, I have to pour this gem on my face to keep it feeling moisturized and comfortable. 


Favorite CC Cream: Hera CC(Complete Care) Cream
I think I have said enough of my love for this product. Definitely it will continued to be in my makeup pouch till at least December 31, 2015! ❤❤


Favorite Face Primer: Clarins Beauty Flash Balm
It is truly a beauty-must have! It helps your makeup lasts longer, brighten your skin and most importantly, it helps protect your skin from the makeup and dirt because it acts as an invisible mask.


Favorite Lipstick: 3 Concept Eyes Jumbo Lip Crayon in Popping P
What attracted me to it was the vibrant and unique purple-plumish color! The color is great. The pigmentation is great too. It's fairly moisturizing. Plus, according to Pantone, the Poppin P's purple shade is the Color of the Year 2014 (Radiant Orchid 18-3224)!

REVIEW: innisfree apple juicy lip & eye remover

 

~AG~
Innisfree apple juicy lip & eye remover is a dual-phase remover. It has a oil-based consistency and a water-based consistency. Like most waterproof makeup remover, you have to shake it well before use. I tend to use only one cotton pad to removed my daily eye makeup. With this makeup remover, I find that it is not as oily compared to L'Oreal or Lancôme waterproof makeup removers.

However when I use waterproof eyeliners, I tend to use two cotton pads to thoroughly remove the makeup. What I also found is that if you leave the soaked cotton pad on the eyelids area to absorb the makeup remover, the waterproof eyeliner comes off more easily. So instead of continually wiping the eye area, this is a more gentle method of makeup removal. Overall, innisfree apple juicy remover has a good waterproof makeup removing properties. 

One more thing that I have to point out about this makeup remover is that it is suitable for sensitive skin. I have ultra sensitive skin, and some eye makeup removers have caused my skin to sting. With this Innisfree apple juicy remover, I have had no problems with that. I have been using it for over two months.

Since I bought this in Korea while they were having a 1-for-1 deal, I found this purchase very worth it. I know for sure that it costs less than USD $10 per bottle. It might have cost around USD $5-6 because I remember it being a good buy. Overall, I will recommend this makeup remover to those looking for an affordable and yet effective one. Plus, I especially like the fresh Apple scent.

innisfree apple juicy lip & eye remover

~AG~

Enriched with apple extract, this line offers softness and healthy radiance to your skin like a freshly washed apple. This lip & eye remover rapidly and effectively removes long-wearing point makeup.

Amount: 100 ml 

Directions: Shake well to activate the formula and pour adequate amount onto cotton pad and then place over eye or lip area to dissolve and remove makeup. 

During my trip to Korea, I bought this eye makeup remover. I have seen several Youtube gurus mention this makeup remover. This has a dual-phase consistency. The top is an oil-based solution and the bottom is an aqueous solution. You have to shake it well before using it like Maybelline, L'oreal and Lancome waterproof makeup remover. It so happens that innisfree was having a promotion. 1-for-1 for this apple juicy lip & eye remover when I was there. I cannot remember exactly the price but I am pretty sure it was less than USD $10 per bottle. I cannot wait to try it out after my Lancome makeup remover is done. I will let you readers know how it is. 

Bioderma Sebium H2O

~AG~

I bought the Bioderma Sebium H2O out of the recommendation from my dermatologist. I have been breaking out like crazy recently so decided to seek professional help. She suggested that I discontinue use of cleansing oil and use cleansing water instead. She mentioned that cleansing oil can cause pimples. Since I have oily skin, she recommended I use Bioderma Sebium H20 instead of Bioderma Sensibio, which I have been using previously.  She said the zinc ingredient in it acts as an antibacterial property, and will help to prevent clogged pores. I'm hoping this will help my skin. *cross my fingers*

• Sébium H2O is an ultra-mild cleansing formula, use it with the utmost care. Soak a cotton pad with Sébium H2O and cleanse your face. Repeat the application until the cotton pad remains clean.

• Sébium H2O needs no rinsing but it is essential to dry your skin. Dry gently. Pat your face with a clean, cotton towel.
• Sébium H2O can be used daily, morning and evening.

• BIODERMA innovation, Sébium H2O gently cleanses the skin without drying it, through the micro-emulsion of impurities and excess sebum.

• Enriched with purifying active ingredients, Sébium H2O cleanses the epidermis in depth and regulates secretion of sebum. The patented sebo-correcting complex, Fluidactiv^®, normalises sebum quality.

• Sébium H2O guarantees excellent cutaneous and ocular tolerance.
• Sébium H2O is non-comedogenic.

Ingredients: 
WATER (AQUA), PEG-6 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC GLYCERIDES, SODIUM CITRATE , ZINC GLUCONATE, COPPER SULFATE, GINKGO BILOBA EXTRACT, MANNITOL, XYLITOL, RHAMNOSE, FRUCTOOLIGOSACCHARIDES, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, CITRIC ACID, DISODIUM EDTA, CETRIMONIUM BROMIDE, FRAGRANCE (PARFUM).