Experience Unparalleled Skin Safety at 50% OFF with the Skincredible VMV Hypoallergenics’ Tube Swap Program

Say hello to healthy and glowing skin with VMV Hypoallergenics as the sensitive skin specialist brings you the irresistible Tube Swap Program. Simply bring in your old skincare products from other brands and swap for an equivalent VMV Hypoallergenics product at 50% OFF from now till the end of April!

Known for its safe and effective care for sensitive skin, VMV Hypoallergenics is offering all consumers the rare chance to experience its validated skin-safety at a 50% discount off all VMV products, by swapping an old skincare product from any brand.

VMV product ranges

VMV Hypoallergenics offers a wide range of hypoallergenicity-validated products to attend to every need of men, women and children of all ages, from head to toe + cell to surface.

• Superskin product line offers a basic, all-around, preventive cosmeceutical care for pre-teens and above.
• Re-Everything product line for anti-ageing help.
• ID product line to tackle skin blemishes from acne to shaving and waxing bumps.
• Grandma Minnie product line for safe and soothing products for new mums and their babies.
• Armada product line for full-spectrum protection against both outdoor and indoor visible and infrared light.
• Illuminants+ product line for lightening that combats skin discoloration or melasma and dullness.

All VMV Hypoallergenics products are validated hypoallergenic, 100% free of all types of fragrances, 100% Paraben-free, 100% Preservative-free, and 100% Phthalete-free

For more information on VMV Hypoallergenics Singapore, please visit its Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/VMVHYPOALLERGENICS.SG

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Review – Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

This is an oldie, but definitely a goodie! I bought it in the US earlier this year, but forgot all about it till about a week ago. I’ve been having a bout of dry skin for a while now, and so i figured there was no better time than now to put the Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief to the test. I’m not sure how much it retails for, but i paid about US$30 for this baby (50ml) at the CCO in the Las Vegas Premium Outlets.

Before i go any further, let’s take a look at some of the pictures i have here for you.

My Thoughts:

This product features a light gel cream texture which is absorbed quite quickly into the skin. I did not detect any strong scent, and it doesn’t leave any sticky residue on the skin either. The texture is so light, it applies like a dream. I love it! Well…some of  you may have something to say about the lack of spatula for scooping the product. But…no complaints from me!

I’ve been using it for a week now, mostly at night. My skin feels plump and smooth even after waking up in the morning. The dry patches of skin on my cheeks have also disappeared. In fact, i was able to feel a difference in my skin just after 1 day. Sleeping in an air-conditioned environment wasn’t helping my already dry skin, so the ‘surge’ in hydration was extremely welcome! Over the weekend, i also tried using it under my sunscreen in the day. That worked out well too!

Overall, i’m extremely pleased with the results and it has fast joined the troupe of staples that i use during my night time skincare routine. If you’re having some trouble with dry/dehydrated skin, give this a go. You may be pleasantly surprised.

Disclaimer: All opinions expressed on this blog are my own, and have not been influenced by PR companies or advertisers. Products featured/reviewed are purchased with my own money, unless otherwise stated.

Review – Shiseido Perfect UV Protector SPF 50 PA+++

Truth be told, i came across this product completely by accident. Well…sort of. I was at the airport (about to depart for New York) and i suddenly realized i forgot to pack in a sunscreen. That’s what happens when you start to pack for a 2-week trip the night before you’re supposed to leave. I quickly browsed through the aisles of DFS, looking for something that would suffice throughout the trip where i’d be spending lots of time outdoors. And so i decided on the Shiseido Perfect UV Protector SPF 50+++ which I paid S$44 for at DFS (the recommended retail price is S$59)

Product Description:

A water-resistant sun protection lotion that provides reliable defense against UV rays while offering advanced skincare benefits. Specially formulated for strong sunlight conditions.

- Protects skin from UVA/UVB rays and helps reduce signs of photo-aging with exclusive SuperVeil-UV 360 technology.
- Formulated with Profense CEL, a complex of ingredients that inhibits enzyme activity and damage to cells and DNA— factors linked to the formation of wrinkles and dark spots.
- Contains Thiotaurine and Rose Apple Leaf Extract, proven to counteract oxidation.
- Absorbs quickly and feels comfortable on skin.
- Water-resistant & perspiration-resistant.
- NON-COMEDOGENIC
- DERMATOLOGIST AND OPHTHALMOLOGIST-TESTED.

Here’s a closer look at the packaging and the texture of the product.

My Thoughts:

It comes in a nifty plastic bottle packaging (50ml) which is rounded and that helps give it a good comfortable grip. The nozzle-like opening helps me to control the amount of product dispensed and thus reduces wastage of any sort too. When i swatched it on the back of my hand, the first thought that came to mind was… hey this feels a lot like the Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk that i reviewed recently.

You have to shake well before use so the contents are well combined. The product looks and feels watery, but it has a slight gel-like texture. Application is a breeze, it is absorbed quickly into the skin and it gives a matt finish to the skin. It is a great makeup base for the skin, especially if you tend to be on the oily side as it has great sebum control properties. Minimal blotting required through the day.

You know how many sunscreens tend to leave a white cast on the skin? This sunscreen leaves a very slight pinkish cast on the skin, though i don’t find that it is very noticeable on me. It helps give my skin a uniform color, which i love. Since my return from New York, my skin has been very dry and dehydrated and that’s why i’ve been shying away from liquid foundations. It tends to make my dry skin even more noticeable so i’ve been using the Laura Mercier tinted foundation over this sunscreen. I believe this should be suitable for sensitive skins since i haven’t suffered from any reactions for the last 2 months. I’m so glad to add this to my skincare routine and would definitely recommend this product to anyone who is in the market for a new sunscreen that doubles as a base.

Disclaimer: All opinions expressed on this blog are my own, and have not been influenced by PR companies or advertisers. Products featured/reviewed are purchased with my own money, unless otherwise stated.

Review – Amethystory Mineral Yogurt Mask

Sponsored Review

Today I’d like to put the spotlight on the all new Amethystory Mineral Yogurt Mask. They say it is as good for your skin as it is edible

So what’s the story and how can it help you and I?
The Amethyst Mineral Yogurt Mask builds upon the natural goodness of premium yogurt with the additional special blend of Amethyst, Tranexamic acid, Hyaluronic acid, Bio Energy Fluid, Ginseng and Olive Oil. Your skin becomes instantly brighter, feels more moisturized and soft. With regular use, a fairer and more even skin tone will give you a natural radiant glow from within.

What sort of results can one expect from frequent use?
- Intensively nourishes and rejuvenates skin, for a soft and smooth complexion
- Excellent whitening and brightening of skin, giving a naturally fair and radiant complexion
- Deeply hydrates and locks in moisture, for supple and healthy looking skin
- Helps to keep skin refreshed and cool
- Non-greasy formula for easy and deep absorption into skin

Here are some pictures to give you a better idea of what it looks like.

My Thoughts:

At first glance, the texture looks very similar to your gel-type facial masques. It even feels like it, with a somewhat creamier touch. If you like fruity smells, then you’ll probably kinda like this and best of all, it isn’t very over-powering. I just wish the product wasn’t housed in a tub like this – those of who you are very particular about hygiene will most likely agree with me. Throw in a spatula at least!

I usually remove my make-up, cleanse thoroughly then pat my face dry – before i apply this product evenly across my face. It doesn’t feel greasy, in fact it is very light and glides easily across the face which makes application a breeze. I leave it for on for about 20-30 minutes then wash it all off. I do feel a significant difference, in the sense that my skin does indeed feel softer and smoother. BUT, don’t expect the results to last too long though. If within the next hour i don’t apply some form of moisturizer, my skin starts to feel a bit itchy because it’s dry. That’s just how my skin reacts though cos i have sensitive skin. Many of you are not likely to face the same after-effects. Also, i have used this product just a few times now and i haven’t experienced any brightening or whitening effects – it may be too early to judge. So i will continue to use this and see if there are any further results.

Overall, i do think it helps to promote hydration and it is generally a no frills product that helps keep skin smooth and supple. And at such a pocket-friendly price of $18.90, i think it’s worth a try!

Disclaimer: Product featured was provided for review. Review is my complete and honest opinion. I am not affiliated with or compensated by the company.

Review – New Biore Skin Caring Cleanser Facial Foam SCRUB & EXTRA MOIST

Sponsored Review

Some weeks ago, Kao Singapore launched new and improved Skin Caring Cleansers. Among the 4 different types of facial foam, i chose the ‘Extra Moist’ one for my sensitive combination skin (though it’s been leaning towards dry the past couple of months!)

Today’s review will be all about the Biore Facial Foam Extra Moist and the Biore Facial Foam Scrub. Here’s what they look like

Here’s a look at the entire series of Biore’s Skin Caring Cleansers

So… what’s different about this product? Biore tells us more…

And…what are the expected results?

Here are a couple of pictures of what the actual product looks like.

(Top – Biore Facial Foam Extra Moist, Bottom – Biore Facial Foam Scrub)

All lathered up – Biore Facial Foam Extra Moist

All lathered up – Biore Facial Foam Scrub

My thoughts:

I’ve been using both these products for the last 4 weeks or so. The Extra Moist facial form on a daily basis (2x/day) and the Scrub once every 3 days. I do feel that my skin is more hydrated, and thus less oily. The 2 are definitely closely related. When your skin is sufficiently hydrated, it doesn’t feel the need to produce more oil in a bid to hydrate your skin. While i won’t attribute hydrated skin solely to this product, i must say that it contributes a fair bit. Though both products lather up in a foam, they don’t feel dry on my skin at all, and i haven’t experienced any related break-outs so far. As for the claim of lightening marks and blemishes, i can’t quite comment cos i don’t really have acne related marks. I do have some sun spots, but those haven’t lightened for me.

Facial Scrub:
It foams up easily when lathered on wet hands, and feels just like facial foam with ultra fine scrub beads. It feels very soft and gentle on my face, i can hardly feel the texture of the beads once it’s all lathered up. My skin does feel clean and soft after cleansing off. However, i haven’t noticed much of a brightening effect on my skin

Extra Moist Facial Foam:
I’ve always been rather skeptical towards foam cleansers because they are usually quite drying. But this product has proved me wrong. It foams up easily when lathered with water, and the foam feels thick and soft. It doesn’t sting my eyes, and it is quite gentle on my skin. My usual routine includes using an oil cleanser to remove my make-up before i wash it all off with a facial cleanser. So far, the extra moist facial foam does a great job of cleaning my skin thoroughly without making my skin feel ultra dry and taut.

I think the extra moist facial foam performs fairly well, and it is something i will definitely finish using. It is working pretty well for me so far. No complaints from my skin!

As for the facial scrub, i feel that there are better performers out there, even for those with sensitive skin. It doesn’t quite help to remove dead skin or encourage skin renewal very well in my opinion. It is very gentle – perhaps more suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin and can’t use anything that is harsh. I do have sensitive skin, but i have tried others which performed better in the skin brightening aspect.

The Biore Skin Caring Cleanser Series is available at Watsons, Guardian, Sasa, and other major departmental stores.

Disclaimer: Products featured were provided for review. Review is my complete and honest opinion. I am not affiliated with or compensated by the company.

NEW from VMV Hypoallergenics – Skintangible “Faint”ation BB Cream

SINGAPORE, January 2013 – If you’ve been despairing over finding a BB cream suitable for your skin’s sensitive needs, you can now welcome ‘skintelligent beauty’ with international sensitive skin specialist VMV Hypoallergenics’ all-new BB Cream, Skintangible “Faint”ation! Say goodbye to pale and sallow skin and impress with a warm and “dew”lightful glow as the multi-purpose BB Cream “skintrigues” and refines the complexion for a dewy unblemished look while optimising skin safety!

In line with VMV Hypoallergenics’ “skintelligent” philosophy, Skintangible “Faint”ation is more than a simple cosmetic tool as it does not contain any common allergens, making it safe for sensitive skin. This barely-there, subtly tinted non-makeup contains antioxidants and pure mineral SPF 30 sunscreen protection to guard against fine lines, hyperpigmentations and other signs of aging.  It also contains coconut-derived monolaurin and other monoglycerides for anti-inflammatory purposes. This means that Skintangible “Faint”ation not only masks blemishes, but also soothes acnes and blemishes.

There are multiple ways of using this beautifully tinted BB cream – apply it solely as a non-makeup that leaves the complexion incredibly flawless yet natural-looking, or use it under make-up as an enhancing primer that forestalls excessive oil and keeps your skin looking fresh even on the longest of days!

With a “can’t-put-my-finger-on-it-but-wow-your-skin-looks-awesome” even finish and a charmingly warm glow, you’ve never been better prepared for flashing camera bulbs or critical eyes!

The VMV Hypoallergenics’ Skintangible “Faint”ation comes in one shade and is suitable for all skin types. The travel size (12mg) is currently available at VMV Hypoallergenics’ Skin Specialist Boutique in ION Orchard, #B3-48, for SGD24.00, while the full size will be available from March 2013.

Review – Mentholatum Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

Sponsored Review

Protecting my face from the harmful rays of the sun is an essential part of my daily skincare routine. What about you? Despite how sun care products are heavily promoted these days, i still know some people who don’t use sun block at all. There is a misconception that sun block or sun care products in general are only for those who are into “whitening” or for those who wish to maintain their fair skin. The fact is that the sun can do quite a lot of damage to your skin. Just because you don’t feel/see it right away doesn’t mean it isn’t happening. I know some friends with pigmentation who wish they could have started using sun care products earlier.

So anyway, as you may have already guessed, today’s review is all about the new Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk SPF50+ PA+++ from Mentholatum. I’m pretty sure you have come across this brand several times before in Watsons or Guardian, and other departmental stores. This is my first time trying out a Sunplay product so i was definitely excited about doing this review.

The Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk (42g) is safe for use on both face and body. Formulated with Solarex-3, a 3-in-1 UV Defense system, this product claims to provide:

(1) long-lasting, superior UV protection with SPF 50+ and PA+++

(2) UV anti-aging protection with RonaCare Ectoin and French Golden Algae to help prevent pigmentation and wrinkles

(3) intense hydration with Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen and Pro Vitamin B5

The bottle comes with a screw cap packaging and is fitted with a nozzle-like opening to dispense the contents. With its narrow opening, it is easy to control the amount of product dispensed and of course, it is sanitary as well. You should shake the bottle well before use, and you can hear something like ball bearings inside the bottle.

The texture of the moisture milk is, as you may imagine, watery. However, it has somewhat of a slight gel texture to it. It was very easy to apply on my skin – no stickiness and best of all, no white cast!! It also dries fairly quickly, leaving my skin with a smooth satin-like finish and that’s probably because it contains silicones. This makes it suitable as a make-up base and i must say it has been a pleasant experience so far. It even helps to control the oiliness on my T-zone to a certain extent. Also, my sensitive skin has had no reaction with the use of this product.

The only thing i’d like to mention is that though it doesn’t dry my skin out or anything like that, my skin doesn’t feel very hydrated throughout the day. Otherwise, i think it is a great economical product that works like it should and you should check it out for yourself!

The Sunplay Skin Aqua range is available at Watsons, Guardian, Sasa, Unity and other major department stores. Do check out Sunplay’s Facebook page here for more information on their products.

Newfound Shopping Wonderland – Zalora

I don’t know about you, but these Zalora ads were completely in my face on Facebook. You know, on the right hand column. After seeing them for what felt like the millionth time, I simply could not resist clicking just to see what they were all about. And so … this is where the story begins. ;p

But no seriously… I couldn’t have discovered Zalora at a better time. It’s the X’mas season for crying out loud, we all need to shop right? And contribute to the ailing economy…?!?! This is the best way to avoid all those crowds – just sit back, relax and wait for your purchases to arrive on your doorstep. I do a fair bit of online shopping especially for clothes, bags and beauty items, so this is completely…utterly… right up my alley.

Just for the fun of it, I’d like to share a couple of things that caught my eye. BTW, X’mas shopping is NOT limited to shopping for others… you deserve some love too. So please pamper yourself with some pretty dresses or those to die for beauty items you’ve been lusting after.

These are some of the dresses I thought would fit nicely in my wardrobe. What do you think of them? With several year-end events coming up, i think there’ll be so many occasions to wear them. They have a wide selection of apparel, some more affordable than others. But it sure looks like they have something for everyone.

  

(L-R) Cut Out Flowers Dress (S$29.90), Crocodile Draped Dress (S$132.90)

  

(L-R) Geren Ford Score Dress (S$259.00), Inner Circle Baroque Lace Blue Dress (S$44.90)

And while shopping for my ever-growing wardrobe, I found some cool stuff that would be great as X’mas gifts for my friends.

  

(L-R) Gear4 iPhone 5 Case (S$25.00), MOR Emporium Candle White Hydrangea (S$38.00)

  

(L-R) House of Harlow Horseshoe Stack Ring (S$40.00), A’kin Pure Man Visibly Fit 24Hour Moisturizer (S$26.90)

Zalora’s got quite a huge range of items for men, women and children – ranging from clothes, shoes, bags, accessories etc. If you love online shopping like I do, I believe you will have fun here

**UPDATE**
From now till 31 Dec 2012, use code zaloraluvin to get 15% off your purchases! Happy shopping!!

Review – VMV Hypoallergenics Armada Sport 70

Today, i’d like to introduce another VMV favourite of mine; and that is the VMV Hypoallergenics Armada Sport 70 sunscreen. The Armada range is an award-winning product line that provides full-spectrum protection against both outdoor and indoor visible and infrared light.

The Sport 70 is one of their best-selling products around the world. This powerful protector is well-loved by many for its wow-inducing lightweight comfort and efficacy even in extreme outdoor conditions.

Pdt Information:
- Impressive PFAs (Protection Factor UVA) are combined with SPFs as high as 70-90 to effectively screen out UVA and UVB rays for active protection against sun-induced skin cancer, photo-aging and hyperpigmentation.
- Creates a unique “barrier-film,” an invisible virtual ”second skin,” that stays on the skin’s surface to maintain protection integrity in and out of water, and while exposed to harsh sun and heat.
- Soft, skin-coating silicones give this barrier-film an exceptionally smooth glide and keep it light, so skin stays comfortable.

Validated Hypoallergenic: VH-74/76 (sans common allergens: extended allergen series North American Contact Dermatitis Group + standard allergen series European Surveillance System of Contact Allergies)

100% All-Types-Of-Fragrance-Free
100% Dye, Phthalate + PABA-Free
Non-Comedogenic
Usage, Patch + Clinically Tested
For men, women, children 9 +
Very Water-Resistant, for All Skin Types.

My thoughts:

This product comes in the form of a tube with a screw cap, i much prefer a snap cap for convenience sake. But it’s not really a big deal. What’s really a big deal (to me anyway!) is that this is possibly the only sunscreen with SPF 70 that i’ve used before. The highest that i’ve used before this was SPF 50 i think. But it’s comforting to know that it is water resistant and that i’m well protected by UVA AND UVB rays too with the Armada Sport 70.  The texture is very light, and it spreads easily. I LOVE that it doesn’t leave a white cast at all, and there are no unpleasant smells. It is absorbed quickly into the skin as well, leaving it feeling soft and moisturized.

My go-to sunblock previously was from Avene, another brand that caters to people with sensitive skin. I’ve been using it on and off for years actually, until i started using a primer over it. When i applied the primer over the sunscreen from Avene, the 2 products would kind of separate and form white patches on my skin. I then had to spend more time trying to blend them out so that my liquid foundation can be applied smoothly. With the Armada 70, i don’t face this problem. My face primer glides on smoothly, with no issues.

The Armada Sport 70 has slowly but surely won my heart over, and it is officially my favourite sunscreen. I was using the tube from the starter kit, and have since emptied it already. Need to replenish ASAP! You may like to read my earlier review about the VMV Hydra Balance Smart Cleansing Scrub here.

Disclaimer: Products featured were provided for review. Review is my complete and honest opinion. I am not affiliated with or  compensated by the company.

Review – Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening Lotion

Sponsored Review

A while ago, i reviewed the Hada Labo SHA Hydrating Lotion with their new nano formula here. Now, they are back again with a whitening lotion with that very same nano formula to help hydrate AND whiten your skin.

If you’ve heard or seen this product in the marketplace, you would know that Hada Labo is well known for its high content of Hyaluronic Acid which gives intense moisture to the skin and locks up moisture in the skin.

So what’s new and what’s all the fuss about? This Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening range offers three times the hydration power. And the 3 main benefits of the Shirojyun Whitening are:
- Deep Moisturizing
- Intense Moisture
- Double Whitening

The triple hydration power comes from 3 main ingredients – Arbutin, Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid.

Arbutin – Natural plant extract that enhances skin fairness and fight against dark spots.
Vitamin C – Repairs dry and dull skin that has been through sun damage.
Hyaluronic Acid – Provides and retains intense moisture to the skin, keeping skin well-hydrated.

This product is free of fragrances, mineral oil, alcohol and colorant. It is also PH balanced and less likely to cause irritation to sensitive skin.

As you can see, the lotion is clear, colorless and very light in texture. About 3 drops is sufficient to cover the entire face. Gently pat it in and let it sit for a minute. One significant difference i’ve realized is that it’s much less sticky. The SHA Hydrating Lotion does leave a sticky feel after you have pat in the product into your skin, but this feels much better. My skin still feels soft and hydrated (like before), just less sticky.

The recommended usage is twice a day after cleansing. I’ve been using this for the past 2 weeks or so, but i haven’t noticed any significant whitening effects. It does however, help to maintain moisture levels in my skin. And this lately – is very important to me. After the last facial visit, I got to know from the therapist that i actually have dry skin. And because i haven’t been giving it enough moisture, it over-produces natural oils to try and curb that. So, helping to keep my moisture levels in check, has in fact reduced the shine on my face. Hopefully, with long-term usage, i will start to see the whitening effects of this product as well.

The complete Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening range includes:
- Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening Essence
- Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening Milk
- Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening Mask

Pricing ranges from SGD21.90 to SGD31.90. They are available at Watsons, Guardian, Sasa, Fairprice, Unity and other departmental stores nationwide.

FREE Redemption!

Here’s your chance to give it a try! Redeem a FREE 20ml travel size bottle of Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening Lotion at Hada Labo(sg) Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/hadalabosg).

Redemption starts from 1st November 2012.

Disclaimer: Products featured were provided for review. Review is my complete and honest opinion. I am not affiliated with or  compensated by the company.