NEW BUY: Japanese Facial Sheet Mask LuLuLun Blue & Saborino Pink

Saborino Morning Facial Sheet Mask (Moisture Rich)

~AG~

Decided to get some Japanese facial sheet masks before the circuit breaker restriction. Saborino Morning Facial Sheet Mask (Moisture Rich) has a 3-in-1 performance of cleansing, skincare and primer. It is supposed to be used in the morning for 60 seconds before makeup application. My thoughts are, who has time for that? Saborino Moisture Rich contains hyaluronic acid, collagen, honey, apple acid, peppermint leaf, raspberry, pomegranate, grape, blueberry and peach leaf. Bought Saborino sheet mask for S$6.90 from BHG Welcia. You can also find Saborino Morning Facial Sheet Mask at Watsons and Guardian stores. Each pack comes with 5 sheets of facial mask. Cannot wait to try it on days when I am lazy to do my morning skincare routine. 

Another facial mask that I bought was the Lululun Deep Moisturizing. Tried this Lululun daily sheet mask before and decided to repurchase.  It is a highly popular sheet mask brand in Japan and has sold over 1 billion sheet masks. Lululun masks are available at BHG Welcia, Watsons, Guardian. Each pack costs S$8.90 and comes with 7 sheet masks. It works well to hydrate the skin and is at an affordable price. 

Will definitely spend some time with self-care during this circuit breaker period. One of the simplest way to self-care is by putting on a facial sheet mask to pamper the skin. Stay tuned for my review on these Japanese sheet masks.

NEW BUY: Dr Jart+ Rubber Mask Firming Lover

 ~AG~

Saw this revolutionary mask from Dr. Jart+ a while back. Sephora Singapore is selling it for S$17. It is pricey for a single use mask. Dr. Jart Rubber Mask is supposed to soothe and improve skin texture. The Rubber Mask prevents active ingredients from evaporating. This two-system mask contains an ampoule pack which berries (strawberry, raspberry, blueberry) extracts to increasing skin elasticity by supplying rich nutrients. Rubber mask sheet contains Red seaweed extract X algin to deeply moisturize skin and keep skin feeling moist all day. Derived from algae, the rubber mask reacts with calcium to cool and calm the skin, while actives cling to moisture to maximise benefits. 

My brother bought this Dr. Jart Rubber Mask Firming Lover when he went to Korea. He said it is a popular skincare mask, according to the Koreans. I cannot wait to try it and see how the rubber mask will feel like on the skin. Stay tuned for my review. 

For the Love of Sheet Masks

~AG~

Sheet masks are an essential part of my skincare routine. This single-use sheet mask helps to soothe and add moisture to the skin. The first brand that ignited my love of sheet mask was My Beauty Diary, a Taiwanese brand that has a wide range of sheet mask for different skin concerns and needs. During my university days in the States, I would put on a face mask after a long day at school and work. A box of sheet masks costs about S$12-16, and a single mask costs about S$1.50. This is one of the most affordable sheet masks in the market. My recommended series from My Beauty Diary are: Aloe Vera and Natto. The sheet masks are drenched with serum and your skin will feel instantly moisturised after application.


innisfree offers a range of sheet masks. I have used:

1) My Real Squeeze Masks (S$2). A triple layered sheet mask with freshly squeezed juice of plants or fruits. My Real Squeeze Mask offers 16 different types to try - Rose, Rice, Green Tea, Aloe, Kiwi and etc. For those who are more budget conscious, My Real Squeeze Mask is a good way to try mask for various skin concerns. The Face Shop and Nature Republic offers similarly priced sheet masks, but they are not as memorable. 

2) Skin Clinic Mask (S$3) is made of 100% natural cotton sheet and it is mineral oil-free, colorants-free and animal ingredients-free.

3) Second Skin Mask Range (S$7-8) is made of fermented soyabean sheet that feels like hydrogel. I have tried the Nourishing and Soothing sheet mask.

This a new discovery for me. LuLuLun Daily Face Mask costs about S$7-9 for a 7-pack sheet mask. It also comes in a pack with 30-pieces face mask. The one that I tried LuLuLun Daily Facial Mask Extra Moisturising. Though the sheet mask is not as drenched with essence, my skin feels hydrated and soft after use.You are supposed to use it daily for seven days, but I am usually too lazy for that. It is a good skincare boost when your skin is feel tight and tired.

Leaders Insolution Mask from South Korea is a popular sheet mask brand. The ones I tried was the Collagen Lifting Skin Renewal Mask, AC-Dressing Skin Clinic Mask and Aquaringer Skin Clinic Mask. The one that I use most often is Collagen Lifting Skin Renewal Mask as my skin has been on the drier side lately. The sheet mask is fully drenched with essence and helps to restore moisturize. A single mask costs about S$4.00. This is not as affordable as My Beauty Diary and innisfree.

Last but not least, is my highly-rated Mediheal Mask. One of my Korean friends said this is one of the best-selling sheet masks in Korea. The Collagen Impact Essential Mask is my ultimate favorite sheet mask. It soothes and moisturizes my tired skin. Whenever my skin feels dry, I would apply the sheet mask. This Mediheal Collagen Mask is fully drenched with essence. Even after applying it for 20 minutes, the sheet mask is still soaked with essence. I have yet to try the other mask from Mediheal.

NEW BUY: Leaders Insolution Sheet Mask

~AG~

Sheet mask is one of my must-buy items while in Korea. Sheet mask is great when your skin need a boost of hydration or when your skin is irritated. There are affordable and super easy to use. I have not tried Leaders Insolution sheet mask, but MG mentioned that they are popular as well. Bought 3 boxes of Leaders Insolution Skin Mask for KRW 51,300. There was a 'Buy 2-get-1 deal" at the duty free store. Each box contains 10 sheet masks, so each mask comes to be KRW 1,710 (S$2.10). The sheet masks I purchased were:
of my must-buy items while in Korea. Sheet mask is great when your skin need a boost of hydration or when your skin is irritated. There are affordable and super easy to use. I have not tried Leaders Insolution sheet mask, but MG mentioned that they are popular as well. Bought 3 boxes of Leaders Insolution Skin Mask for KRW 51,300. There was a 'Buy 2-get-1 deal" at the duty free store. Each box contains 10 sheet masks, so each mask comes to be KRW 1,710 (S$2.10). The sheet masks I purchased were: 

Aquaringer Skin Clinic Mask 
- This is the best-selling mask from Leaders Insolution, according to the helpful saleslady. With enriching nutrients and alpine glacier water, it restores moisture and maintains healthy hydration level.

AC-Dressing Skin Clinic Mask
- This sheet mask soothes irritated skin and helps reduce redness. It is suitable for those with acne-prone skin. 

Collagen Lifting Skin Renewal Mask
- Helps to improve skin elasticity and moisture level. Collagen boosts vitality for tired skin. Other Collagen Sheet Masks have shown good results on my skin, so I cannot wait to try this Leaders Insolution Collagen Lifting Skin Renewal Mask.

Cannot wait to try these sheet masks. I wish I had more than one face to put them on. Hahaha.. Stay tuned for my review of Leaders Insolution Skin Mask. Have a good day!

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

REVIEW: Mediheal Collagen Impact Essential Mask

Cellulose Sheet Mask

~AG~

This Mediheal Collagen Impact Essential Mask was recommended to by one of my Korean friends. While browsing through Olive Young, she pointed out that this Mediheal collagen mask is popular in Korea. Previously, I have never heard of Mediheal sheet mask.

This cellulose sheet mask contains hydrolyzed collagen and hydrolyzed elastin. This mask claims to help with fatigued skin by adding moisture to dehydrated skin. It has a silky touch that provides intensive care for fine wrinkles, and delivers the efficiency of the high-concentrated essence. The instructions on the packaging recommends that it will be most effective when used consecutively 2-3 times a week for a month. Since I only bought two of these Mediheal Collagen sheet masks, I am unable to do that. 

Don't mind my sleep eyes.. Zzzz...

This cellulose sheet mask is thicker than My Beauty Diary, The Face Shop or innisfree sheet masks. It is generously soaked with essence. The mask was dripping with essence when I removed it from the enclosed packaging. The first thing that I noticed was that it did not have a plastic film, unlike My Beauty Diary sheet masks. So, I had to carefully unfold the mask. Since it is a cellulose sheet mask,  the resilience material makes it less likely to tear. Even without the function of the plastic film, I was able to unfold the mask without any issues such as accidentally ripping the mask. 

I would have to say that this sheet mask is a little too big for my face. There was excess of sheet mask on the sides of my face. Besides that, it thoroughly covered my face well - including my large forehead area. This sheet mask was left on for about 30 minutes. It stayed on very well. There was no need to position it back in place during that waiting time. Even after 30 minutes, the sheet mask still felt full with essence. 

The bottom of the mask is too big

Does not fit well on my cheeks

My skin felt cooler after the sheet mask application. It felt so relaxing to put on the sheet mask before bed. The essence felt sticky, and does not absorb that easily into the skin. It takes 15-20 minutes for the essence to be fully absorbed from the skin. My dehydrated skin felt replenished after mask application. It felt so well-moisturized, that the next day, I skipped my daytime moisturiser. My sensitive skin did not have any adverse reaction to this sheet mask - no redness, no bumps, no new pimples. Yay! 

I cannot remember how much I bought this Mediheal Collagen Mask for in Korea. It should be less than US$1.50 (~S$2) for a piece of this mask. They are available at Olive Young, which is a beauty/personal care store with multiple locations in Korea. With that being said, I will totally recommend this sheet mask to anybody who finds that their skin is dehydrated and/or tight. This affordable cellulose sheet mask works well to replenish moisturise back into the skin. On my next trip to Korea, I would definitely check out the other Mediheal masks. 

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.

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: My Beauty Diary Aloe Mask

~AG~

My Beauty Diary is one of my FAVORITE sheet mask. It is affordable and my skin reacts well to it. The skin around my cheeks area was feeling dry and rough. So, I decided to put on a sheet mask to hydrate my skin. I decided to go for the Aloe Mask because on the packaging it states for moisturizing and soothing. I cannot remember how much I purchased it for, but I bought this single sheet mask while in Taiwan. The beauty stores in Taiwan offers you to pick and choose single sheet masks which is a GREAT idea. You get to try many different brands and types, without investing in buying a whole box. A single My Beauty Diary sheet mask usally costs less than S$2 (~US$1.50).

For some reason, this sheet mask does not fit to my face nicely. The sheet mask around the nose and chin areas were too big. I also found that the design around the eyes area was not a good fit too. If I place the mask higher up on my face, it will cover my lower eyelids.

My Beauty Diary sheet mask is always full of essence, which I LOVE!! I usually leave on my sheet mask for 30-40 minutes before going to bed. My skin will usually feel hydrated and softer the next morning after use. However, for some reason, this Aloe sheet mask did not hydrate as well as the Q10 or Natto sheet mask. The next morning, I find that the skin around my cheeks area were still a little dry. Overall, my skin was more moisturized but I have seen better results with the other My Beauty Diary sheet mask.

For those that are looking for a noticeable improvement in skin hydration and texture, I would recommend the My Beauty Diary Natto and Q10 sheet mask instead.  

REVIEW : The Face Shop Essential Mask Sheet Hyaluronic Acid

 

 

~AG~ 

 

Last night, my skin was feeling tight and dry. The winter weather in China caused my skin to be drier than usual. In addition, the five hours flight back to Singapore took a toll on my face. My skin was in need of emergency rescue. I was looking over my sheet masks collection and saw this The Face Shop Essential Mask Sheet Hyaluronic Acid. Since my skin was feeling especially parched, I decided to try this mask since hyaluronic acid is known as a moisturizing ingredient.  

 

First thing I noticed when I took the sheet mask from its packaging is that it does not have a peel-off packaging for the mask, unlike My Beauty Diary Sheet Mask. Instead, you have to unfold the mask carefully. The Face Shop sheet mask is thicker compared to My Beauty Diary sheet masks. It does not tear off easily. Secondly, the mask was heavy with artificial fragrant scent. I did not enjoy the overwhelming fragrances. Thirdly, the mask did not fit my face is well. The lower part of the mask was too big for my face. See picture above. Fourthly, the residue left my skin feeling sticky. I did not like how it felt on my skin, and had to wipe it down with tissue. Do note that the sheet mask was generous with essence as essence kept dripping down while I had it on. 

 

Regarding whether it works for sensitive skin. The next morning after I had used it, no bumps or adverse reaction appeared on my skin. I cannot remember how much I had purchased it for. I bought it while in Korea. It probably costs US$2-3. 

 

Overall, I would not recommend The Face Shop Hyaluronic Acid Sheet Mask. I much prefer My Beauty Diary Q10 or Natto Sheet Mask for hydration as it fits my face much better and the residue essence is not as sticky.  

REVIEW: My Beauty Diary Sake Yeast Mask

~AG~

I am a big fan of My Beauty Diary sheet mask. Ever since I tried using it in the States, I have used quite a number of their sheet masks - Birds' Nest, Aloe Vera, Q10 Rejuvenating, Natto, Red Wine, Collagen, Black Pearl. My Beauty Diary sheet masks are of high quality and my ultra sensitive skin has not had any adverse reactions to them. The fit of the sheet mask also works well on my face. On this particular sheet mask packaging, it says it has moisturizing and whitening properties.
When I removed this sheet mask from its packaging, the scent of the sake yeast was pretty overpowering. Among the My Beauty Diary sheet masks, this is one of the least favourite in terms of scent. Even the Red Wine sheet mask's scent was not as overwhelming. The scent of alcohol in this Sake Yeast mask is not the most pleasant scent.

The direction says to leave the sheet mask for 20-30  minutes on my face. But I usually leave the mask on for at least an hour or until the mask is dried up. I do this because it is such a waste for me to throw away the mask that is still soaked with essence after 20 or 30 minutes of application.

My cheeks areas were dry and flaky before the mask application. After the mask, my skin feels tighter and brighter. Overall, my skin feels refreshed and well-moisturized. Apart from the overwhelming alcohol scent, I might reconsider purchasing this sheet mask. I bought a box of 10 variety My Beauty Diary mask for S$13-15 from Sasa Singapore. That means one mask costs about S$1.50.

Mild sake yeast is the by-product in winemaking. Yeast essence has anti-oxidizing function that whitens skin. It purifies pore, making skin soft, fresh and bright. Botanical collagen restores skin’s elasticity and repairing function. Gorse extracts hydrates for more translucent and radiant skin.

Patented moisturizing ingredient CosphingoTM maintains skin’s natural state of healthiness. It hydrates and locks moisture, restores skin’s softness and smoothness.

REVIEW: The Face Shop Real Nature Mask Sheet Aloe

A mask sheet that has aloe extract calms down the sensitive skin and provides moisture.

~AG~

• The mask sheet does not fit nicely on the face. The width of the forehead is too short. It does not cover the nose properly.
• Overall, the mask is too large for the cheek & chin area.
• My skin felt itchy after application. I think the material of the mask was what made it felt itchy.
• I removed the mask after about 10 minutes of application.
• This morning, my skin did not have any adverse reaction - which was good. I was afraid that there will be severe reactions because of the itchiness which I thought was from the essence of the mask.
• My skin did feel refreshed and hydrated after use.
• Conclusion: I would not re-purchase this mask because it does not fit nicely on the face and how itchy the material feels.