Posts Tagged ‘skincare’
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 – 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.
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.
A visit to GLOMAX Aesthetics – The Face Artistry
Sponsored Review
Last month, i was kindly invited to a facial treatment session at GLOMAX Aesthetics. I used to go for facials regularly, but due to lack of time and the location, i haven’t been very diligent in going at all. This session reminded me why i should continue going for facials, once a month.
I believe most of you do take the time and effort to care for your skin at home, with mask sheets, clay masques, facial scrubs – all in a bid to keep your skin duly hydrated and to clear away the grime and dirt that’s accumulated in your pores. I don’t suffer from an acne problem, so this basic maintenance has been doing doing the trick.
However, if your schedule and wallet allows, i think it best to still drop in for a facial every now and then with the experts, wherever it may be. They do a better job, with their specialized products, equipment and skills. Frankly speaking, i feel that facial treatments, in most places anyhow, are pretty much similar. It is the EXPERIENCE that counts. You should feel relaxed, comfortable in that environment, and have a certain trust in your beauty therapist to know what she is doing to your skin. Communication is extremely important in a customer and therapist relationship.
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to GLOMAX Aesthetics. The place may be small, but it was peaceful and tranquil, where i was able to relax and unwind. What made me feel comfortable with the therapist, was that she took the time and effort to let me know exactly what she was doing. She also provided information on the current state of my skin, and what sort of products i should be using. The extraction part of every facial is of course the most uncomfortable for me, but she was very gentle with me. I stuck it out, tears and all (my threshold for pain is very low!) but i was very pleased with how clean my skin was. She also did a microdermabrasion treatment for me to remove all the dead skin, and this encourages skin renewal. The facial ended with a most relaxing mask, where of course i fell asleep
For the next 10 days, my face was in great condition. And it didn’t flare up in anger even after the facial. A little redness from the extraction was inevitable, but it was gone the next morning. My skin was looking less dull, and my complexion was somewhat brighter if i may say so myself
Here’s more information about GLOMAX Aesthetics:
Nestled six floors above the heart of Singapore’s famous riverside Clarke Quay, GLOMAX Aesthetics – The Face Artistry is everything a minimalist soho salon stands for: expertise, customization, modernity and cosiness. The commitment to your skin deserves only the best preventive and corrective treatments here for a radiant, flawless skin.
At GLOMAX Aesthetics – The Face Artistry, expect a superlative collection of ultimate face and body treatments boosted with award-winning aesthetics machines and celebrity skincare products. Our treatments are artfully crafted for instantaneous results and meticulously executed by a team of highly-trained beauty masters.
s each skin has its own individual character and deserves to be treated with personalized attention, we customize every visit to meet your specific needs, be it preventive – or – corrective treatments and skin care. This allows us to bring out your skin’s individual beauty and that coveted healthy glow. Each time you visit GLOMAX Aesthetics – The Face Artistry, our beauty master will perform an in-depth consultation to determine the best regimen for your skin. Be ready to step out in confidence with clearer complexion and be enlightened of your skin health.
With the constant stream of new technologies and skin care, Evon Low, Director and Founder of GLOMAX Aesthetics – The Face Artistry is well known for bringing in award-winning, non-invasive machines, and more of a legend among her clients for giving them quality and results, in the shortest amount of time.
“We want clients to look renewed and radiant every time they visit us. It’s really possible to have healthier complexion each time and keep looking better without overspending.” That’s right. With 19 years of experience, Evon believes “you need to know the ideal pairing of treatment concoction to skin, what to touch, and apply the right pressure. It’s a test of a therapist’s skills.” Get prepared to have your every dollar and time well spent with a hallmark of satellite of treatments encompassed to leave you glowing sooner than you think.
They are having a special promotion now specially for my readers!
Quote “Blogger Joy” to enjoy a Sonic Cleansing Energie Care Facial 80mins at $54 (UP$108)
From delicate to problem skins, a sonic cleansing that gently lifts dirt and impurities off the surface of skin. Skin is refreshed with a cocktail* of vitamins. *Depending on different skin type, ‘Energie Care’’s cocktail of vitamins.
Haul – Shiseido Warehouse Sale
This happened some weeks back, but i like to document and share my recent purchases with like-minded readers
It’s a pretty modest haul, when i compare the size of my bag with some others. It was really packed, and i literally had to squeeze through to get to what i wanted. Plus, it was a Friday night and the last day of the sale so you can imagine the chaos.
I haven’t started using or opened any of the items yet. I will take my time to go through them and share reviews of my favorites in due time
I picked up eyeshadows, lip colors and nail polish from the Maquillage range, Cle de peau eyeshadows, and a travel-sized kit from the Shiseido White Lucent range.
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 – VMV Hypoallergenics Hydra Balance Smart Cleansing Scrub
Sponsored Review
VMV Hypoallergenics is a brand i discovered recently, and they cater specifically for people who have sensitive skin. If you’d like a quick introduction to this brand that just launched in Singapore back in September, read this. Skin safety for VMV Hypoallergenics – isn’t just a nice perk, it’s a complete lifestyle.
I mentioned in my previous post that VMV Hypoallergenics is the world’s ONLY brand that uses a validated hypoallergenic rating system. So how does a VH-rating system work? And what does that mean to you and me?
The higher the number, the more allergens are ABSENT from a product and the better the chances that you won’t develop a rash or other skin problems. The slash followed by a number shows the current maximum number of known allergens. The current highest VH-Rating is -76/76 (contains 0 of all 76 known allergens). If a product contains one allergen, its VH-Rating would change to VH -75/76* (contains one allergen out of 76). The asterisk is repeated on the product’s ingredient list so you can quickly identify which is the included allergen (it’s underline, too, so you can’t miss it).
Almost all VMV products are ranked VH -76/76. While lower VH ratings can work for many people, you can choose products with higher VH numbers if you have a history of allergies or hypersensitivity. This is the beauty of the VH-Rating System: you are empowered with a clear skindication of what allergens are included/excluded so you can more wisely choose what you can use.
So without further ado, let me introduce to you one of my favourite products from VMV – the Hydra Balance Smart Cleansing Scrub.
Pdt Information:
This moisture-balanced, deep cleansing, pore-clearing facial slougher gets combination skin really, yet safely, clean. It softens + hydrates even as monolaurin deals with acne + controls shine where needed.
Ingredients:
Aqua/Water/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Paraffin, Glycerin, Glyceryl Laurate, Butylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Pumice, Glyceryl Stearate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Triethanolamine, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Carbomer, Citric Acid, Sodium Phytate.
To Use:
2x-a-day, massage a small amount onto damp skin. Rinse well with water. Do not apply pressure or rub vigorously–a gentle massage is all you need. Do not scrub any one area for longer than 1 to 2 seconds at a time.
Here are some pictures of the product for you
My thoughts:
It’s pretty much been a challenge to find a facial scrub product that my skin doesn’t react to. Most scrub products tend to be overly abrasive and leaves my skin dry with that squeaky clean feeling. Even before VMV walked into my life, i’ve been using a soapless facial cleanser to avoid upsetting my skin for the longest time. Though at the back of mind, i’ve always wondered if my skin is clean enough?
The texture of this product is very creamy and the natural pumice is quite fine. You only need a small amount for your whole face. I’m glad to share that so far my skin is pleased and it hasn’t caused any irritation. My skin feels really silky smooth after the use of this product. Just try a little on the back of your hand if you do go down to the store, you’ll know what i mean.
They say you can use it twice a day, but i usually stick to twice a week, just to give my skin some deep cleansing action and to clear the pores of grime and dirt. I love how clean my skin feels without that overly-dry squeaky clean feeling. It gives me that added assurance that i’m doing my due dilligence in keeping my skin clean, without using harsh products that might irritate my skin.
If you suffer from sensitive skin, i’d highly recommend this product. I’m loving it so far.
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 – SexyLook Rejuvenating Duo Lifting Mask
Sponsored Review
Today i’d like to introduce a mask sheet product from SexyLook. This is another product that Secretive.sg kindly sent to me for review. Read my previous review on the LoveMore Loofah & Aloe Vera Hydrating Mask.
I was truly intrigued to know that this product contains bird’s nest and caviar, it sounds like a really indulgent and rich mask treatment.
Pdt Information
Enriched with collagen, it gives the skin double moisture to keep it supple, elastic and hydrated. This 3D Lifting Mask with ear hooks fight against gravity and lifts the skin at your neck, mouth, cheek and eye areas. Containing a high concentration of caviar extract, it is also rich in nutrition and helps to delay aging, giving skin a younger and firmer appearance.
Here’s what the packaging looks like.
How to use:
1. Fit the mask onto your face
2. Hook the mask onto your ears on both sides
3. Pull the hook at your chin up to your ears
4. Massage your face while your skin absorbs the essence, this helps to maximize absorption of the essence.
My thoughts:
I’m not really a fan of these 3D lifting masks. You’re supposed to stretch it pretty tight across your face, and hook it onto your ears so there’s a lifting effect. To me – it was just plain uncomfortable. If you’ve tried one of these or other similar products, you’ll know what i mean.
Also, this mask was not as thin as the Lovemore one i tried recently. I’m partial to thin masks that are comfortable, i can’t help it – it’s supposed to be a relaxing and comfortable experience.
Having said that, this product left my skin feeling pretty hydrated. My skin felt smooth and supple after removing it. Again, to avoid reverse osmosis take it off after 15 minutes for maximum effectiveness.
Most of us leave our mask sheets in the fridge right? I did that too, and usually upon putting it on, it feels really cool and refreshing. However, after 2 mins or so with this particular product, my face felt kinda warm. Not sure if it was my skin reacting to the essence. Maybe it’s too rich for my skin?
Overall, i prefer the Lovemore mask compared to this, and it fits much better too. If you’d like to give this product a go, you can check it on the secretive.sg website. It is $7.90 for a box, which contains 5 mask sheets.
Disclaimer: Products featured were provided for review. Review is my complete and honest opinion. I am not affiliated with or compensated by the company.










































