Look Nook Hook

My Lifestyle & Beauty Playground

Posts Tagged ‘skincare

Review – Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

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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.

Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

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! :P

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.

Written by looknookhook

March 6, 2013 at 9:07 pm

Review – Amethystory Mineral Yogurt Mask

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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 :D

amethystory mineral yogurt mask

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.

amethystory mineral yogurt mask

amethystory mineral yogurt mask

amethystory mineral yogurt mask

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! :D

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

Written by looknookhook

March 3, 2013 at 12:33 pm

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

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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 :)

Biore Skin Caring Cleansers

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

Biore Skin Caring Cleanser Series

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

What's so special about Biore's Skin Caring Cleansers?

What's so special about Biore's Skin Caring Cleansers?

And…what are the expected results?

results after using Biore Skin Caring Cleanser Series

results after using Biore Skin Caring Cleanser Series

results after using Biore Skin Caring Cleanser Series

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

Biore Facial Form Extra Moist & Scrub
(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 Extra Moist

All lathered up - Biore Facial Foam Scrub
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+++

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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.

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

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

Mentholatum Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk

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.

Mentholatum Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk

Mentholatum Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk

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.

Mentholatum Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk

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

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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

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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.

Written by looknookhook

November 4, 2012 at 10:10 pm

Review – VMV Hypoallergenics Hydra Balance Smart Cleansing Scrub

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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

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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.

Written by looknookhook

October 21, 2012 at 6:40 pm

VMV Hypoallergenics “Skinvades” Singapore

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Friends and readers with sensitive skin – fret no more, for VMV is here.

So what is VMV? Or rather who are they? Same questions went through my mind too, trust me. However, it is no longer a secret. :)  The cosmeceutical brand with the world’s ONLY validated hypoallergenic rating system is finally here in Singapore.

Prepare to be “skinfatuated” with VMV Hypoallergenics as the international sensitive skin expert opens its first store at Ion Orchard (#B3-48)! Proven to be safe and effective for sensitive skin with its unique validated hypoallergenic rating system, the brand is a ‘must-have’ amongst Hollywood celebrities such as Jennifer Garner and Selma Blair. 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!

To mark the launch of the brand in Singapore, VMV Hypoallergenics launched a special-edition Singapore-exclusive starter kit, the ‘Safe Skin Haven Set‘, which contains everything needed from head to “glow”! Available at $50, the set is replete with some of the brand’s most popular products, from gentle basics and terrific treatments and vital sun protection. Great for travel or a thoughtful idea for a gift!

The set includes trabel-friendly sizes of:

Re-Everything Face-Hand-Body Lotion
Puts age in a cage by dealing with all signs of aging!

Moisture Rich Creammmy Cleansing Milk
A facial wash that is extra gentle and rich, hydrating and soothing for dry skin.

Creammmy Rich Intensive Moisture Milk
Soothing, intensely hydrating and utterly “skindulgent” moisturizer for extra dry skin.

SuperSkin 1 Primer Toner
Firming, brightening, gently exfoliating mandolin acid and monolaurin daily toner for dry skin

Id Sweat Acne and Overall Anti-Bacterial Monolaurin Gel
Effectively tackling all kinds of blemishes, this powerhouse treatment gel is mattifying, anti-acne and anti-sweat.

Armada Sport 70
This award-winning sunblock provides full-spectrum protection against outdoor conditions. Ultra lightweight and very water resistant.

If you’re constantly plagued by problems caused by your sensitive skin conditions, you’d be happy to know that VMV Hypoallergenics products are:
- 100% free of all types of fragrances
-100% Paraben-free
- 100% Preservative-free
-100% Pthalete-free

Do visit the VMV Hypoallergenics website to find out more about the brand, its history and its wide range of products.

I was extremely lucky to be given the opportunity to test out a couple of their products! I’m really excited to share in-depth reviews of my favorite products in subsequent posts, real soon! Do keep a lookout :) In the meantime, do drop by their store at B3-48 if you are at Ion Orchard.

Written by looknookhook

October 21, 2012 at 1:20 pm

Review – Hada Labo: New Nano technology for deeper hydration

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Sponsored Review

One Drop Locks up an Ocean – that seems to be Hada Labo‘s key selling message. Inspired by traditional Japanese beauty wisdom, Hada Labo adopts a “No More No Less” philosophy in the formulation of its products. You will also find that additives such as colorants, fragrances and mineral oils are not present in their products. They claim to to retain only beneficial, essential ingredients that ensure maximum effectiveness.

If there was just one thing you should take away from this post, it should be all about the new Nano technology that’s been integrated into their formula. The new Nano Super Hyaluronic Acid in Hada Labo boosts its hydration power, and now enables full and thorough hydration. The new Nano hyaluronic acid molecule is 1/20 the size of the normal hyaluronic acid molecule – which enables penetration to areas deep within the skin. The other 2 hyaluronic acids, ‘Normal’ and ‘Super’ hydrate skin that’s closer to the surface. So essentially, the 3 types of hyaluronic acids put together apparently gives you complete hydration – from the skin’s surface to deep within.

Today, i’ll be reviewing the Hada Labo SHA Hydrating Lotion, followed by the SHA Moisturizing Eye Cream – both contain the new Nano Formula mentioned above.

First off, let me tell you that these babies fly off the shelves at an alarming rate of 1 bottle every 2 seconds in Japan. It was also a 2011 winner of the Singapore Women’s Weekly ‘Best Beauty Buys’ award. I don’t know – what do you think? Over-sensationalised much? Let’s find out first what this product is supposed to do.

It’s formula claims to be able to provide lasting hydration and nourishes the skin for smooth, radiant and crystal-clear skin. It supposedly creates a moisture-locking shield to help preserve skin’s optimal moisture balance.

My thoughts:

In terms of packaging, i think it would be much better if the bottle was fitted with a nozzle. That would help control the amount of product dispensed. Though i usually like pump dispensers, i think a nozzle in this instance would work better so you can control the amount of product to dispense – very little product is needed for your face and neck and a little can really go a long way. This 170ml bottle will last you a long time, trust me.

It’s texture is (as expected) lightweight and runny, it’s also easy to spread over your face and neck. You should gently pat it in till it is well absorbed. Before i tried this out, i was using the SKII Facial Treatment Essence. I know these 2 products are fundamentally different, but what i wanted to say was that the transition took a bit of getting used to. You will find that this hydrating lotion is kinda sticky, which i don’t quite like. The FTE feels just like toner and it doesn’t leave any sticky sensation. This might take some getting used to. I’ve also tried the Freshel hydrating lotion, and it is also sticky. So Hada Labo is not alone where stickiness is concerned. Perhaps the product is just meant to be like that due to its hydrating properties? However, there are no absorption problems despite it being a little sticky. Right after application, i can feel my skin is smooth and hydrated.

You can use this product in the morning and at night, but I prefer using this as part of night-time skincare routine. I have oily combination skin, so i like to keep my skin as ‘matte’ as possible so my make-up stays fresh all day. Before i go to bed, i usually use a toner to remove any leftover makeup or impurities, followed by the Hada Labo hydrating lotion. If i feel i need some extra ‘care’, i will pat on some serum (e.g. Estee’s ANR) and lastly finish off with a night cream to seal in all that goodness.

When i wake up in the morning, my skin still feels smooth and hydrated, even radiant to a certain extent. As to whether it will give me crystal-clear skin, i think that it is only fair that the verdict will have to come after some long-term usage. I believe this product retails for S$22.90 and is available at Watsons.

Now, let’s move on to the Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Eye Cream.

In addition to the concoction of the 3 types of Hyaluronic acids, this eye cream also contains Actiflow – an ingredient which increases blood circulation, lightens dark circles and puffiness, and Jojoba Oil – which helps smoothen fine lines and aging skin around the eye area.

Apparently, similar to the hydrating lotion it is also PH balanced with no animal derivatives, fragrances, mineral oils, alcohol or colorants. This makes it gentle enough the most sensitive of skins.

The recommended usage is twice daily, after application of the hydrating lotion. Dispense a small amount and use your ring fingers to dab it gently under and around the eye area. Hada Labo claims regular usage of this product will bring you improved skin texture, and reduced wrinkles and puffiness around the eyes.

My thoughts:

I like the pump dispenser, which eliminates contamination of any sort. It works well too, so easy to control the amount of product dispensed so there’s no wastage. It is a white, lightweight cream, and you will find that upon application it is almost water-like. It’s so easy to spread and dab into the skin. It absorbs quickly into the under eye area too, without any greasy residue.

Upon application, i can see that the area around my eyes is hydrated and plump. This is especially important before i start applying my make-up. I have several fine lines under my eyes, so i need to ensure the area is well hydrated so my base and foundation doesn’t start settling into the lines and cake up. I’ve also discovered something else, by chance. Sometimes, at the end of the day when my under eye area looks dull and some of the makeup has settled into the fine lines, what i can do is take a tissue and gently dab off any makeup on the under eye area. I then apply a little of this eye cream and pat it in well, and use my powder foundation to touch up. It works wonders (for me anyway), i look awake and my make up looks fresh. It’s very handy that way so i keep it in my makeup pouch for touch ups.

In terms of hydration, i think it works well. It also helps to reduce puffiness around the eyes. It’s a great eye product – if you DON’T have a problem with lines/wrinkles. Perhaps it is more suited for younger skin. If like me, you have a problem with lines around the eyes, this calls for a heavy-duty eye cream that is more rich – to combat those darn lines. Because of its lightweight texture, i still think its great for day use; i would reserve a richer product for night-time use. This product retails for S$21.90, and is available at Watsons.

If you would like to sample their products, simply like Hada Labo’s Facebook page to register your interest.

Thank you for reading :) I hope the reviews were useful to you!

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

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