3 July Beauty: Sofina Primevista Multibase Cover

My old stuff are finally out and so I'm off to try something I had been eyeing on the last past year. Sofina makeup stuff. 

Hailing from Japan under Kao, it's currently only available in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong retails outside Japan. 

What interests me isn't the colour series but the cover that will minimise the pores for combination/ oily skin. Have heard so much about it but I had been stalling since I don't want to clutter my bathroom with half used products.

In the end, I purchased the Primevista multi base cover and the face cake powder. 

The multi base comes only in 1 shade. Their principle award winning item is The long wear UV base targeted at 10hr long wearing makeup with SPF. It is clear and don't conceal pores. Since I don't wear make up much and my sole need is to cover pores, I tried the multi base cover instead. 

As indicated on the packaging, the small 25g tube (at about Hk300) aims to conceal pores, dullness, blemishes & helps to apply the foundation stay better. Not scented and has (mild) hydration purpose, which I take it more as non drying and translates to non caking:) 

I was recommended to take shade 5 for the face (foundation) powder for neural shade. 

I gave it a test run today. 

The multicover base glides on easily and dries quickly without stickiness. Applied to only T zone area and spread out sparingly to cheekbone to cover pores.  

Pores definitely look minimised but don't expect it to work like concealer on its own for freckles. Thought I would top up with the powder to try out the duo power. All it take is a very light pat n the powder coats n adhere to the base easily. The point to note is NOT to layer too much powder or it will cake n look patchy. 

The face feels matt. I thought it look a little light when matt but once I step into the HK sun n humidity takes over, the color melts n blends perfectly to my shade. Best thing is that the pores def look "invisible". 

I sweat a lot today and did workouts n the face thing did not run or go patchy. Stayed on as promised. went to shower n rinse my face n the holding power remains after I pat my face dry. 

All said n tested, I love this new product for lazy person like me who do not like layers of stuff on my face. 

That said, with such great delivery on staying power, that means u really got to clean ur face thoroughly to rid them when the day ends!

Beauty Talk: Innisfree Mask

Tried the innisfree hydrogel mask but personally I dont like it. For some reason, it makes my skin itch after application so I would have to rinse it off. Something inside the hydrogel mask doesnt agree with my skin and frankly, didnt see much significant difference.  Tried the Pomengrate mask as well and it also wasnt good for my sensitive skin.

However, their NORMAL cucumber mask was alright by me. No funny reaction.

Hong Kong: Another new hairdo for 2013 by my Japanese hairstylist!

It has been 6 long months since I went back to my Japanese hairstylist Ito san to get my hair fixed.
It's also the first time I will be visiting his new salon since his relocation in Causeway bay!

Between being busy and laziness, my hair has been growing steadily. Hoo Hoo! Just realise I only had been to hair saloon twice in this year! haa haaa...so much for getting ur hair trimmed every 4-6weeks rule)

I was getting quite used to my short straight hair by early July frankly.

By early Oct, I was bunning up my hair again!

Comes, November, I didnt know if I should cut it short again, long and straight as it is, but Ito san suggested a perm for my shoulder length hair. Ok, I have never had my hair permed at that length before and I havent seen many in reality with a nice outcome. Still, I thought what the heck, let's give it a try and if i hate it enough because it didnt suit me, I can always snipped it off.

SO after 3 hours...tadah! Here is my latest autumn hairstyle for the year.
I still havent quite decided if it suits me. Most of the reviews in my FB seemed to indicate positive reception (maybe my friends are just kind? Lol!), except for my cousin who thinks it made me looked more mature and my bro says it's very "Jappy"

This time round, I try to give it a more 360 degree view, back to front and from the sides. Sigh...some angles really are NOT my best angles. Oh well, just using my head to showcase the hairstyle afterall.

How? What do you ladies think?

To be honest, I'm still getting use to it. It's actually a little harder to manage than long hair permed because the curls are harder to twirl into rolls since they are still short. Ito san says I dont have to go back till 4 months later, just to let the hair grow more to make it more gentle wave I suppose. Let's hope my laziness doesnt destroy his good work!

Previous:
Hairstyle 2013, May - Link

Beauty Talk: Muji Verbena Body Soap Review

I have been looking for a body shower gel that isnt too drying on my skin for some time now. Have tried many different organic "natural" based product but hasnt been completely satisfied.

However, by chance, I think I may finally have found the one I like though I;m not sure if I am speaking too soon since it has only been 2 weeks into use.

I have discovered belatedly, Muji Shower and Hair care Series.
Starting with the shower gel. There is only one option in HK Muji which is the Verbena Body Soap. Made from Okinawa grown Verbena, the product claimed to be made with natural products, and with a hint of Freesia scent. On the back, short of translating word for word, it is SLS free, colouring free, as well free of industrial mineral oil traces.

During use, the first thing you notice is that without SLS, the product is clean but without the harsh foaming action that dries your skin. The scent is very light and pleasant that doesnt send you head into a spin or become sickly. In fact, I like the fact that the scent doesnt linger on my skin except its only there when you are soaping.

After wash, your skin is as what the back claimed, feels fresh and clean. My body doesnt feel tight like a wrapped bun in desperate need of a body lotion.

Personally, I like this and I think it should be a great hit amongst ladies.
I would def recommend this product.

Beauty Talk: The gentlemen Tonics Shampoo and Aftershave Product Review

I came upon this brand "Gentlemen's Tonic" (web link) while roaming Central Landmark during last Xmas shopping for gifts. I thought the shower gel smell lovely for a guy without being overpoweringly musky.

My guy fren loved the shower gel so I thought I would try out the shampoo and aftershave moisture for my man. I would have bought the traditional shaving whip cream (based on an internet review that it was very good) instead except they had ran out of stock. So I thought what the hell, since I'm already here, might as well give the other range a go.

It's very hard to get a product review from my man. He only has "I like it" or "I dont like it" feedback.

For shampoo, he would normally give a bit more info like "it doesnt lather (well)", "It isnt squeaky clean" when he "stole" some of mine when his ran out.

This time round, his verdict was "It's clean. It smells pleasant. It lathers well enough."
I guess that's all you are gonna yank out of a man who isnt "all expressive and descriptive" about the products he use.

So I thought, what the hell, I'm gonna use it.

While it prob works nicely on a man's short hair, it was a bit of a no good for woman.
It really tangle up my hair and frankly, drying. Which I take it for my man to mean squeaky clean. It does smell nice and not overly powering.

For the Aftershave Cream, it's ok. Nothing to crow about. In fact, my man prefers the Molton Brown product which he found to be lighter and absorb better into his skin. The aftermath is also a much smoother skin surface without the irritation. Personally, I too prefer the fragrance of the Molton Brown After shave hydration emulsion. HOWEVER, the downside of the Molton Brown product is also its packaging, being that its in a GLASS bottle that makes it travel unfriendly. The first bottle my man had only lasted a week because he accidentally dropped it and well, needless to say, my floor got a face load of expensive moisturising that day...So the molton brown gal was also needless to say happy to see me back so soon then.

Ultra Light Bai Ji Hydrator . 

Going back to Gentlemen's Tonic products, there is ONE MAJOR FLAW. It's the design of the bottle. The square and hard bottle makes it extremely hard to pour or squeeze anything out. So it gets abit frustrating. Hence, my man hates to use the aftershave in the morning since as he said "Dont have whole day to muck around with the stupid bottle" So you get the drift.

The verdict, I prob wont buy it again unless they improve the product design. For shampoo I could still transfer to another empty bottle but for face creams, its tough.

Prob last resort gift for your man or guy frens as a gift, but for shampoo, def not something u should think of using, not even for emergency unless u really dont mind a mop of dry straw looking head.

Beauty Talk: Aveda Damage Remedy

Before I had my hair sniped off, I thought I would give Aveda Dry Damage Remedy Hair shampoo and conditioner series a try. Just to give my hair some "variety" in treatment since they say product loses its effectiveness if used over prolong period.

Quite frankly, it didnt do squat for my hair. My hair remains dry and not significantly better. When my hair was dry, still plenty of flyaway. The conditioner did detangle during application but I wont say my hair is any softer or more manageable. The scent wasnt all that fantastic either. I had to go back to saloon grade hair mask to save my hair. (Something I bought from Hairdo a long time ago)

The shampoo itself also wasnt very good. Not sure why but it often ends up giving me mild dandruff after a week of use. This despite that I would use a dryer to blow dry my hair by 50% before allowing it to dry naturally for the rest.

For this price and the effect, I honestly wont be tempted to buy it again.

Hair Scalp massage product

For those who had been to AR salon by Ito san, and wanted to know what is the hair product that us used to massage the scalp, I thought I will take a picture for your benefit since I remembered someone asking me about it before. It's by Milbon.

May 2013 Hair updates: I cut my hair!!!

After years and years and years of long hair, I decided to cut it off finally!!!

I brought my mum along as well since she too needed a trim. As she was there and I didnt want to keep her waiting for me to finish the perm, I have only completed "Part One" of the haircut, which is to cut. I will leave the Part Two- perming another time:)

It was quite uncanny that the minute I sat down, and Ito san asked me what I wanted for today, he started laughing when I said cut it short. He said when I entered the salon, the first thought that flashed across his head was also to suggest having me cut my hair!! So he was both happy and surprised when I suggested it. Talk about synchronised thoughts!!! In fact, he suggested just above shoulder length but I told him shorter.

While I was still talking in the middle of my sentence, Ito san took his scissors and chopped it off and showed me my "hair remains" in a bunch in his hand. My first reaction was "You are so fast!" The other staff laughed because he exclaimed "I havent even have the chance to put the towel and cover over you yet!" We all started laughing. It was quite funny thinking about it. Practically no chance to change my mind, not that I will since I wont suggest it otherwise.

So ....Sayonara my lovely long hair...

Though I didnt have time to perm, I still went ahead to have my hair coloured a lighter shade of brown than my previous. So Beedy and Mandy did my colouring as usual.

After the hair treatment, Beedy continued with the scalp massage and patiently taught me  how to blow dry my short hair so that it wont "hew hei" (in cantonese) - meaning curl outwards like omega sign. The trick is to blow it towards my chin.

 After the hair is blown dry, Ito san did another round of check and trimming

The final hair style in Part One stage. Will update again when I finish Part Two stage with the perm.
I am enjoying my short hair tremendously!! It's like weight lifted off my head!

The funniest joke was that I didnt tell anyone I cut my hair and when I attended my brother's wedding, my blur mum didnt even recognise me (I was wearing my shades). She was shocked but she actually liked it very much. My cousins and all complimented on it, saying it made me looked younger...floating. Ok...they are prob being polite...hahaha.

My man said "It feels like I have a new chick" Lol!

Feb 2013: Hair updates @ Ar Salon (Causeway Bay)

It's gonna be Chinese New Year in couple of days and it's time to get my unruly hair snipped again, esp the dry ends. I havent done anything much to my hair except for trimming since I permed it in May 2012.

Today it's time to dye my hair again to cover those nasty white hair bits sticking up at the forefront. It's annoying coz they refuse to stay down and hide quietly amongst the rest!

Ito san recommended a slightly lighter brown than my usual dark brown. Fine by me:) He didnt go for the super light brown (the japanese style) because he knows I will freak out if it's too light, plus he knows I am very lazy to maintain so the dark roots will look pretty "distinctive" since I wont keep going back to dye my hair.  I only head to the salon like every 4 months or more. So Beedy did the coloring for me while Ito did the cut.

Initially I thought I should straighten or re-perm but Ito san said I didnt have to do anything since my curls are still in place. So he will just layer my "bushy" mop to thin down the volume at the back & do treatment. Sounds like a plan. He suggested for me to keep my fringe long so I didnt have short bangs this time.

So here's the photo updates for today!

(Dated: 5th Feb 2013. Last permed: 9th May 2012)

(Dated: 5th Feb 2013. Half Clipped hair version after dinner)

Beauty: Holika Holika cosmetic purchase

I went abit crazy today at the new Mall Hysan Place. Pop over to see what was interesting and ended up home with a stash of makeup stuff.

To be fair, I havent bought any makeup stuff since I quit and that's like about 5 years now. I had been surviving on my cosmetic stash left over from work days.
Holika Holika has finally started their first branch here in Hk at Hysan Place. It's a Korean cosmetic brand. I walked in with intention to replenish my mascara and ended up with more than I expected.

1. Aura Luminous Highlighter.
Okie, I confess, I was suckered in primarily for the brush in case first:) However, the highlighter really worked, or at least it worked way better than Shu Umera's version. This has staying power and def created the definition when applied at the nose bridge and under eyes.

Verdict Update 2013: This is very good! Highly recommended!

2. Hello Holika multi-colour blusher.
The cat got me. Okie, the colour swayed me too. It definitely has that natural blush look after application and it saved me having to mixed a few blush colours. The powder has a shimmery effect and i guess that helpes to brighten the face. I really like this blusher!

Verdict Update 2013: I love the natural look. Highly recommended!

3. Pure Mellow- Skin Tuning Kit 
Initially I was gonna get the jelly starter kit which has a really nice powdery texture.
However the sales gal told me this is way better, esp it has that colour correction effect, with the 4 different colours mashed together in one squirt pump. I have just tried it one and after one hour in non aircon environment...so far so good.

Verdict Update 2013: Not sure if its my oily skin but this didnt quite do it for me. I will Pass.

4. Magic Pole Mascara.
Okie...I was hesitating about this. I bought it because of the ball end applicator for easy application at the tip and end of the lashes. However I am so used to my quick dry Anna Sui mascara that this got me alittle surprised that it didnt dry on my lashes immediately. So when I blinked, some of the black ink smudged my eye lid but, because it wasnt quick dry, I could also wipe it off rapidly without feeling a black spot. So after one eye, I quickly used tissue paper to wipe off the excess from the lashes itself immediately after application to avoid colouring my lids when I blink. Otherwise so far so good. It is supposed to be relatively rain proof..we shall see when my lid area starts to secrete more oil after half day..

Verdict Update: I didnt like their mascara. It smudges and its quite annoying to apply onto the lids...I really hate this. I will revert back to Anna Sui mascara. Dont buy this.

Japanese Hairstylist: Love my New Summer Hairstyle from AR Salon! 夏の髪型が大好き！ありがとう！！

Had my hair permed yesterday@ AR Salon (closed on Mon) (Link to address and contact).
Facebook link (here)
I LOVED it!

Previously, was getting super bored with my long hair now that has flatten out. My hair was in desperate need of loving and attention after the ill-treatment over the last 3 months, esp when I was travelling to Morocco and Portugal. I really didnt gave any sh*t to my hair since I was dead tired every day...

As usual, Ito and Beedy did a wonderful job with my hair! As I told them I will be going swimming regularly this summer, they promised me my new curls wont straighten but I also have to do my part in blow drying my hair after wash (else the water weight for wet hair will pull it straight over time).

The best part is that apart from the Aprou lightweight milk moisture which I had been using, I didnt need any other hair products for the curls. (See what I mean in earlier post about NOT pushy?!!) Talk about fantastic for lazy person like me!!!

As I had finished my shampoo and I mentioned about any recommendation, Ito san gave me a Re:>>> Cool Shampoo sample. He told me to buy it ONLY if I like it. He said it's completely non drying. I havent tried it yet. However, I restock my Aprou Milk Moisture instead. I LOVE this product because it smells heavenly, really did what it promised- softening my hair, and lightweight without weighing down your hair.

Towards the end of my session, took a snap shot of the guys who had a role in making me feel top of the world like a princess:) This session, Ito did the haircut, while Beedy was in charge for the perm and wash.

Beedy recommended to try perming the curls from the eye-level for a change as the trend is heading away from the perm starting from jawline. He showed me quite a few pictures to ease my worries since I really didnt want a puff up curly hair. Beedy assured me it will be soft and natural and his words were as good as gold. The curls were really soft and had that natural wave.

Guys hard at work! (Left: Beedy with a smile, Right: Ito in full concentration)

Alot of my friends like my new curls.
Even the fruit stall Auntie complimented it. She could be just being polite...hahah.

Anycase, here's a shot to show my indulgence in my vanity...lol
I took a shot right after I got back from the salon.

My hair is still nice and curly despite my "abuse" to it for the next 6 hours and after dinner.
Happy!　嬉しかった！！

PS: See my Hair Salon visit @ Feb 2013 before CNY! (Link)

New Salon by Japanese stylist formerly from Hairdo HK

Am sure many HK locals are familiar with the Japanese salon Hair-do (website) in HK. Despite some ups and downs in the initial sessions trying out various stylists, I had finally settled with Ito-san Senior Designer as my hair stylist. The thing about Hairdo salon, they aint cheap (not the most ex either) and you wont be happy if you try to go with someone below the senior level if you are particular about your haircut.

So now after close to 2 years, my stylist had left but fret not. I found out he had started his own salon still in Causeway bay! YippEEE!

One of the reason I like Ito san apart from his friendliness but not overly talkative, is that he is serious about his work, does NOT push any hair products unless you ask him for opinion. Despite reading many people complain about their curls not lasting from Hairdo (with no indication who was their stylist), Ito san did my first curl perming and it lasted over 1.5 year, and this is despite the fact that I abuse my hair alot by not blow drying it nightly as advised, I go swimming regularly, and washing my hair nightly without special shampoo. Even though the curls have significantly lessen over time now, it still has that slightly natural wave. I suppose how long your curls last also is highly dependent on your hair texture and nature, as well as how chemically damaged it is from previous treatments.

When my mum visited me in HK, I brought her to Ito and she LOVED her new haircut. Mind you, my mum is a super fussy not easy to please woman who complains alot about all the hair stylists in her long years of cutting hair. Not that her opinion should influence anyone else but I'm just saying...:)

So for those who are looking for a good Japanese hair stylist, here is Ito's new address, and no, I do not get any benefit or discount personally for recommending him. I just happen to understand the frustration of not finding a good hair stylist that doesnt dent a big hole in your pocket at haircuts starting over $600+ like some big names.

I just went for my haircut 2 days back. His current July 2013 price is ($450) for cut under him and cheaper for junior stylist but I forgot to look at the price. I did a hair treatment too which really soften my hair and it cost HK$600.

The place is definitely not fancy or done up like hairdo without the view, but its clean efficient and pleasant environment. Honestly, which is more important? The material stuff or a good stylist? I definitely love the cozy and more comfortable seating here than the stiff hard chair in Hairdo. Incidentally, I went to hairdo page and notice ALOT of senior stylist had left in this year...makes me wonder what happen but I didnt want to probe.

Meet my galfren today whom I havent seen for 2 months and she thought I had my hair permed or curled again but I told her i didnt, not since my perm 1.5years again. Heaven knows how many inches I have cut away since.This was just the layering cut that Ito san did for me and she loved it. I think this says alot of what good skills can do, creating a new look without having to shelf out hundreds of dollars.. So if this is the sort of look (more Japnese) you fancy, Ito may be the guy for you.

I should hav taken one shot just after he cut and blow dry my hair but I had forgotten being too happy. So instead this is the 3rd day, taken with my iphone after shower without dry blowing look ( without any hair product ).

(Left: Taken 1 year ago, 6 months after perm. ) 

(Right: Taken today, 1 year later with just layering cut. )

Oh! After the end of my session, Ito san even let me pick out a pair of hand made ear rings as a thank you for patronising his new salon. How thoughtful and sweet!

AR salon (Updated Jul 2013)
15/F, Circle Plaza, 499 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.
( 銅鑼灣軒尼詩道499號永光中心15樓全層）
Tel: 22414600 (11am-7.30pm)
I think Monday is restday.

AR Salon Facebook (Here)

Peace out.

PS: Those who are concerned and only speaks Cantonese, Ito san also has another HK stylist Beedy who did my perm recently. See my new summer look 2012! Took this shot yesterday while having my hair done - May 2012 (Link). Pampered like a Princess !

Hairstyling sessions updates

New Short Hair! 2013, May. - Link
New Perm for my growing hair. 2013, Nov - Link

Summer hair cut. 2014, Jun - Link
Going for a overdue haircut! 2015, Jan - Link

Beauty Review: No regrets about Armani Delicate Cleansing Balm and eye colors!

If you use makeup and dont read this, it's seriously your loss!

I dont normally crow about makeup products as often I dont find them too much different from one brand to another. However I got really interested in Giorgo Armani's makeup after I bought some of their products in a moment of impluse.

The stuff I am so impressed with is their eye shadow and their Crema Nera Mineral Cleansing Balm/ Delicate Cleansing Balm.

Starting with Armani's Eyes to Kill Intense series, I have bought their 01Blast of Blue and 10Airy Jade.

I have used Mac, Shu Umera, Anna Sui, Bobbi Brown, Lancome's eye shadow and NOTHING, I mean NO OTHER brand has made such an impression on me as Armani's eye clour has. Amongst the lot, Shu Umera's sucks big time. I have no idea why this brand is still surviving sooo long with its less than average products. For many brands, after application, the color often starts to fade once my face starts oiling and the color virtually disappear by the 2 hour mark if I am lucky. Mac and Bobbi brown fared better depending on which colour I choose but they definitely do not last either.

Yet Armani's eye colour lasted me a solid 10 hours without a need to reapply!! The colour was still relatively fresh looking (intense)! I was honestly stunned! Normally when my face started to oil under the sweltering HK summer heat, my eye colors would disappear in a flash but NOT with Armani's eye clour. Instead, what happens is that the eye-color becomes slightly mellowed (not faded) and less shimmery intense but at a suitable distance, you can still see the color standing out. Personally I liked the mellowed look better because it has a more natural blend in look!

I tend not to look in the mirror when I am out but because I was shopping yesterday, alot of the boutiques had mirrors and I was pleasantly surprised that by the end of he day, my blue eye shadow can still be seen. My eye liner didnt smudge either! Talk about impressed. 10 hours to me is like forever when it comes to holding power of eye colours for an active oil production factory like mine! I am so tempted to get the champagne shade next time I dropped by.

The Armani staff had recommended the Delicate Cleansing Balm to me. He told me he personally felt it worked better than other Armani milk base cleanser esp since he knew I use eye liner. It was another leap of faith paid off. If you or if you have a wife or galfren who uses makeup, you should seriously consider getting this for her!

Before this, I had been using MAC cleansing oil. While I like the MAC cleansing power, I really HATE the oil nature and the way it annoys my eyes when I tried to get rid of eye liner. Not to mention, it often leave my skin leaving taut after washing it off.

Armani Balm cleanser however was amazing. It applies on like cream but gradually changes to oil based as you massage it onto your face after a min. Then wash off with water. I deliberately tried a few times without using facial cream after and my skin remains hydrated and doesnt get super oily after either. The makeup removing power was equally good if not better than some other brands I have tried. The best part is that it is cream application upon initial application so it doesnt get into my eyes and it feels really gentle to the skin.

The steeper than the rest price may be a major deterrent but my point is this, why buy so many crappy lousy products for your face when you really only need ONE good remover? U wont wear a pair of ill fitting shoes, so why would you ill treat your face by the same logic? I dun mind shelving out good dough if it works well and gentle on my skin!

I have tried Menard cleansing cream, Mac cleansing oil, Shu Umera Cleansing oil, Fancl Mild Cleansing oil prior to Armani. I really HATED the Shu Umera's cleansing oil whose prowess doesnt even compare to other brands and worse was the super oily greasy feeling of their product. Fancl mild cleansing oil was less oily and works ok but my skin esp the eye area often was left feeling super dry. Menard cleansing cream was gentle but I dont think it removes the makeup very well. It probably was better at removing just sunscreeen.

Mac cleansing oil was my fav, before I had discovered Armani's delicate cleansing balm (suited for sensitive skin). So now that I am a convert, think this MAC will be my last bottle of cleansing oil after I finished the existing one. Until I discover an even better product, I am not moving away from Armani's.

However, like every single makeup remover in the market, I would still insist on using Norvatis Lid care to clean under my eye lids after makeup remover. None, and I seriously mean NONE of the makeup remover will ever be able to remove those colours that seep under the under lid if you use eye liner or mascara that requires to get colours close to the lids. I will always find that after makeup remover, lidcare will still be removing traces of remains under my lid. After using Armani cleansing balm, the traces are lesser but nonetheless still there. So if you do not want eye infection over time, you seriously need to go get some lid care solution to clean your eyes thoroughly. However if you only use eye shadow, then it is not such an imperative step.

Beauty Review: Neo Strata Cleanser PH4

It took me a while to realise but after using Neo Strata facial cleanser, I am sold on the effectiveness of this cleanser. It has been 8 months since I started on this. If you have sensitive skin (prone to combination/ oily skin depending on the weather) like me, U really ought to try this. It works way better than Demalogica Special Gel Cleanser and less harsh than many cleansers out in the retail market.

(I have tried ALOT of cleanser and this works best for me by far)

After I had finished with my Menard cleanser, realised I needed something milder for dry fall/winter. For some reason, my face doesnt like alot of the SPF content they put inside cosmetic products which gives me red blotches or dry patches around my nose and mouth area. Applying La Mer helps to reduce the impact but I am too lazy to rem to do so everyday for winter because it can be a little rich if used everyday.

One gal recommended me to use Neo Strata's PHA4 facial cleanser, so I tried it with leap of faith and I was rewarded. It took me a few moments to get get use to the non-foamy lathering formula. If you have used cetaphile before, its kind of the same texture. I suppose without the foam, it doesnt strip the oil off your face either which is a super good thing if your face is already dry and sensitive like mine.

It took me over half a year to realise an improvement. My blackheads has significantly lessen on my nose, which I am complementing it with Fancl's black head remover now. I dont really need the Fancl blackhead remover unless I had used cosmetics eg: foundation etc. which I notice will leave some blackhead area the nose bridge area.

I am sprouting less zits, and also I have decided to use it for summer and it remains equally good in keeping my face clean and happy. It's kind of expensive but what the hell, if its good stick to it.

So now my happy summer cleansing schedule (that works for my combination sensitive skin) is

1. Neo Strata Cleanser PH4
2. Fancl Black Head remover (once/twice a week)
3. SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Serum (definite keeps you skin supple!)
4. Fancl DX Lotion Light + Milky Lotion (bought it on a whim and working alrite so far)
5. Demalogical Multivatamin Power Recovery Masque (Never leave home without it product! At least once a week or more often after makeup removal)

Beauty Review: Fancl- Skin Renewal, Sebum care and lip treatment review

Had plenty of time while I was sick last week, and so I figured a little pampering wont do me much harm. So I ended up with a box of Fancl products that include a Skin Renewal Pack and a box of Sebum care (8 individual sachets).

Primarily, I had wanted to try out the Sebum care packs which promises to rid blackheads without the squeezing and polishing which was said to damage the skin texture. The fact that the items are free from presevatives and harsh chemicals were also a draw as my combination skin was increasingly getting sensitive.

The instructions I had received from the beauty advisor was specific. I had to smear a thick layer on my face for both products. It's a relatively new concept since we are used to the idea of just adequate coverage on the face. Plus, this thing isnt cheap so the item of slathering a layer of at least 2mm thick is kinda daunting.

1. Skin Renewal Pack Review.


The product is to be used before the sebum pack. The rationale isnt very clear to me.

The item made with royal jelly is mild enough to be used for the eye area but I didnt see a need to. After spreading it for 5mins, we are supposed to massage it in to stimulate further absorption into the skin before washing it off. Verdict, the skin was definitely softer and smoother instantly. It felt hydrated.


2. Sebum Care Pack
For first time user, it is highly recommended to use the product daily for 7 days. I decided to see it through since I wanted to see if it is as effective as claimed. I noticed black heads on my nose and I had refrained by using other products on it while testing this product.

The idea is to layer a THICK layer on the T-zone area, and other spotted areas suffering from outbreak. I dunno how other users claimed that there is enough cream per sachet for 2 people because for me, it was just right for the T-zone and chin and jawline area only. Not enough to cover the cheek. I suppose that is because I followed the instructions of NOT spreading a thin layer. The idea of how this works is that it is NOT suppose to dry up before you wash it. I dont get the full blown mechanics and logic but apparently the blackheads are soften by the cream and removed while the cream is still soft. A dried up cream will not dissolve the blackhead because it will only continue to block the pores.

That is the main reason why it only requires 3mins. To prevent the cream from drying up on your face and wash it off. The sponge that comes with the pack is pretty useful. It is gentle enough on the face and get the wiping done in 3 strokes.

The result is not immediately evident in the first couple of days. However by the 4th day, I am positive that the blackheads on my nose were reduced. In the first couple of days, I was kind of surprised that my nose was oiler and shinier than usual when I wake and didnt know if that was normal. However to my relief, the excessive oil symptom went away after the 4th day.

By the end of 7th day, I am happy to say that the sebum care pack works as claimed. The blackheads are really gone and it was pretty visible that my partner noted the significant difference. (he wanted to try it too now)

The recommended every 3 days after the initial work of recondition the skin. I am assuming it will work but it is rather expensive to keep using it every 3 days. I think the very important thing to remember is teh correct way to use this product or it wont as well as you hope.

I prob will stretch the interval over a longer period depending on my facial condition. Still, I am glad to say that this works. In addition, I had some new spots during the week and I smear the sebum care cream over the spot and they went down in 2 days without flaring and I completely forgotten about the new zits because they went down on its own. Didnt even need a zit cream. Heh.

3. Lip Treatment
The last thing I tried was the lip treatment that was suppose to nourish and moisturise cracked lips. I always have a dislike for balm because I find them to not work the way I want to after awhile or they have some weird taste. I did have a preference for Burt's Bee lip balm but it's not effective enough when I get really bad cracked lips.

This fancl product works great. My lips are positively soften and I dont have this weird taste or lingering layer that I hate with some other product. Overall, a 8/10 score for the product. I took some marks away for the small expensive tube. Otherwise this item is a keeper. I dont go to bed without layering it on my lips now. Esp useful if you sleep in aircon nightly like I do.

Beauty: Eyes Make up remover

Ever since my eye specialist recommended this product - Novartis Lid care to me, I have not looked back since for the last 6 years. I would not go anywhere without this if I have any intention to use eye make up. I dont understand why ladies will shelf out big dole for inefficient "branded" eye make up remover when this cheap product readily available at all pharmacy/ drug store does the job better and more thoroughly!

What this product does is that it washes away all foreign particles (eg: eye liner, mascara, eye shadow colors, oily lids) that clings to the root of your eye lashes, and at times caught underneath your eyelid due to the oil secretion from our eye lids.

I tend to have a more active oil gland around my eyes than others so I went to see an eye specialist. He showed me a picture of my oil globules blown up and it's not pretty! So he recommended me to "wash" my eyes regularly with Novartis lid care till the oil clinging to my undereyelid is gone.

I was impressed at how effective it was. I will be using expensive eye makeup remover, but they could never be used to clean under the lids. So when I use the Novartis lid care, I would still find traces of eye makeup on the wipes despite having washed off "visible" eye makeup! So never again, will I not use this as the one and only step to wipe off my eye makeup!

My gf used to have eye infection frequently. Her eyes will swell or turn red like a bunny. She doesnt use much eye makeup and her doctor couldnt tell what triggers it. I told her to give lidcare a try and voila, her "infection" attack decreases significantly. Apparently, she has this nasty habbit of rubbing her eyes with her hands when she is tired, so we can only guess she prob has oily lids like me and the trapped impurities irritated her eyes when she rubbed them.

While this is a super good product to remove ALL traces of eye makeup, do note that some people may experience a little eye dryness or eye lid dryness if used everyday depending on your skin type. I would recommend to use a drop of eye drop (disposable sort) as a followup or apply a little eye cream if its the outer lid that feels dry. Otherwise most people wont feel much difference.

In Hk, you can only get the sterile wipes in Mannings or chinese drug stores but in Singapore and Australia, you can get the actual bottle size in Guardian or Watsons.

If u use eye makeup, you really must have this!

UPDATE OCT 2012

I went back to Singapore recently and they no longer sell the bottle version, just the prepacked 20piece box version as like HK.

Beauty: Skin Ceuticals - Hydrating B5 gel

I just have to blog about this beauty serum that I have been using for 3 months now.

When it comes to facial products, I find myself often skeptical about claims, thus limiting my buys to certain brands. Even so, I am constantly out to try other products that comes strongly recommended. I have absolutely no brand loyalty when it comes to beauty products unless it works consistently to the expected performance.

I have found myself a brand new best friend - Hydrating B5 Gel by Skin Ceuticals. (website)

I had seen this being sold in a GP clinic when I was waiting for my India travel jabs. So my interest was aroused when I saw this again in one of the store where I get my facial wash.

I asked the girl if it was any good and if she had tried it herself. While I generally carries a known distrust for sales (in any industry) in general, but since this girl doesnt earn commission, and neither does she represent a specific brand, so I am more inclined to take her word since she had recommended a rather good face wash for me previously. She told me Skin ceuticals is a good brand and their serums are really good, esp with my concerns about constant flaking skin around the edges of my mouth and certain parts of my face during winter.

I could use La mer which works for me but it tends to be too rich at times and it will cause minor out break if I use it over long period of time. So I thought, what the heck, I shall try this hydrating gel. The worst I can do if it doesnt work on my face, is to swap it into a leg moisturer instead.

To my surprise, upon first application, my face looks and feels hydrated. The gel was instantly absorbed in split seconds, and I couldnt feel any "extra" or sticky layer on my face. It instantly refreshes the taut feeling I have had for weeks. After application, your skin feels smooth. While it is recommended to use their own brand of moisturer, I still have my own moisturer cream which seem to absorb pretty well into my face too. I didnt have any "extra skin" barrier feeling at all. No scent, no side effects ( with my sensitive skin), and no disgusting greasy feeling. The best thing is that this product actually works as it claimed!

Ever since I started with this gel, I never have had another flaking dry skin problem on my face or corners of mouth ever again! It truly is amazing. Just a few drops per day and it work wonders. It is worth every penny of the price and I have never ever been so converted in my life! No matter what products I have had used previously, I always have something non-glowing to pick on or bitch about, but this product is practically flawless to date, if I put aside the steep price of course.

So ladies (and gentlemen), if u have dry skin problems such as taut or flaky bits, or just trying to brave the winter cold without look too shitty, go out and try this product. It will be a life saver!

BURT'S BEE - Thoroughly Therapeutic Honey & Bilberry Foot Creme Review

Are you one of those guilty people who walk around in sandals and flip-flops, unknowingly inviting unwanted stares at your dry cracked heels...if you are suddenly looking down at your heel and gasping in horror now, well here is one quick tube of feet lotion to carry around with u.

Not many cream will entice me to buy them because i find them too greasy. One of the reason I read up on burt bee was the fact that it is mainly natural without harsh chemicals. I decided on leap of faith to try this product as it felt pretty non greasy during finger test while i was shopping at watsons at causeway bay.

Try BURT'S BEE - Thoroughly Therapeutic Honey & Bilberry Foot Creme, which is 99percent natural [accordingly to the ingredient list]

REVIEW

True to the finger test, the creme is neither heavy nor overly creamy thus non-greasy. However, it tends to take a long while to be absorbed else u will be leaving your "cream" foot prints all over the floor if u dont let it dry out.

Being a foot emoillent, it will naturally be richer than body lotion as the skin on our feet are thicker. It has a plesant coconut kind of smell rather than honey to me. Still, your feet feels smooth instantly and the minor cracks and dry patches are visibly smoothed...and to those who hates greasy hands, this positively doesnt leave your hands feeling icky after application. Instead, it is also kinda absorbed into the hands i suppose. 2 way benefits.. ha.

Then again, if you are like me who at times absolutely doesnt want to use my hands, i would suggest you squeeze the creme onto the sole of your feet directly, and then clap both feet and rub them together as if they are hands...

The najor complaint i have is that the creme is not easily squeezed out from the tube, but i assume it is rather due to tube opening design rather than anything else to fault with.

I dont have serious cracked heels so I am not sure if it makes greater difference. My advice is still to make sure u scrub your feet with pumice feet scrub [ from muji or body shop are great buys] daily during shower before applying teh feet creme for maximum effect.

Product ClaimThis foot cream is loaded with some of nature’s most therapeutic ingredients to soften and moisturize rough, dry feet. Bilberry extract, a natural alpha hydroxy acid, gently exfoliates skin and helps prevent the formation of calluses while honey and quickly-absorbing jojoba butter, replenish moisture leaving feet smooth and healthy.

Featured Ingredient
Honey — This sweet, fragrant, syrupy substance produced by bees soothes and adds softness to the skin, and is an excellent natural moisturizer.

Crabtree and Evelyn - LA SOURCE RELAXING BODY SILK review

For the longest time, the LA SOURCE BODY SCRUB is the only product i LOVE and would faithfully purchase from crabtree and eveyln.

However recently, I decide to add another item to my list. LA SOURCE RELAXING BODY SILK [海洋SPA柔丝保湿精华175ml]. It functions like a body moisturiser except it is in the form of a spray bottle rather than a normal body lotion.

Now, I have used the La Source relaxing body lotion before. My gf had given me a set as xmas present previously. while i profess to like the crisp relaxing scent of the lotion, I dont quite like the after lotion feel. It isnt exactly greasy, and it does absorb into the skin, but yet it leaves a film such that I know the lotion is there. Thus subsequently, I never bothered to restock when the lotion bottle was done.


REVIEW

NOW, the precise reason why i am raving about the body silk spray is how it differs from its lotion counterpart. It smells exactly like the la source range body lotion, and it works perfectly too, leaving your skin silky smooth. However what i really like about it, is that it is waterbased and after you rub the spray in, it simply get absorbed within seconds and viola, you dont feel as if u have applied anything. I LOVE THAT. The only giveaway is the faint scent and how your fingers can glide across the skin feeling the gentle lustrous smooth skin after application.

So if u are tired of hunting down a good body lotion that leaves your skin smelling great and feeling nice, without the ''after application feel''. This would possibly be your best bet, that is if you are like me who prefers a crisp sea scent than floral scent after shower.

ps - what is rather strange though is that while i can buy if off the HK STORES, I cannot seem to locate this item off their official website.

SHISEIDO Super Mild Chikara shampoo and conditioner

I recently swapped from Shiseido TSUBAKI to this special edition - Shisedo Super Mild Chikara Conditioner. Reason being, what can i say, its even better.

PRODUCT CLAIM　「concept of mother's milk」

Contains the components of a mother's milk. These components help increase the thickness and resilience of the hair. It will strengthen thin and weak hairs and protect them from damage. The amazing soybean is so full of linoleic acid, proteins and other beauty-enhancing gifts from Mother Nature.

Review

I started with using the Super Mild Chikara 「チカラ」Massage Super Mask 「マッサ—ジスパマスク」 conditioner and recently upgraded to include the bottle conditioner after my tsubaki ran out.

One of my fav reason for using it apart from the nice light floral scent, is that the conditioner and treatment actually works well to detangle long hair during wash and the weightlessness effect even thru to the next day. My personal advice, Leave it on for a while for couple or more minutes before washing it off immediately greatly enhanced its effect. [best for about 5mins, go scrub your back while you leave your shower cap on doing the leave on]

I personally love the effect of the super mask treatment more than the daily conditioner. However, u can only use that once a week accordingly.

One difference i felt was how my long hair remains easily manageable to comb through and leaves your hair feeling light and airy when it dries. It doesnt stimulate any oil glands off your scalp so you dont feel as if your hair is oily or heavy after use. Being marketed as ''nurturing like mother's milk'', I vouch his product works well to deserve a spot of recommendation here.

While it is marketed as a family product, some may find the scent a little more feminine perhaps, though frankly, the fragrance is so light to me that it is hardly noticeable once it is rinse off. It is definitely not overpowering that will plunder and distort your senses.


Super mild original range has garnered rave reviews from many other users but I myself have not tried that. However this super mild chikara version is already a pretty superior product in my book for now.