Book Haul!

Before July ends, I want to post something different!
Well, I received my book vouchers of RM 250 before my holiday started. 

At that time, I was contemplating whether to use it to buy medical books a.k.a my textbooks, or just spend them on some good books that I've been dying to read. 

Whenever I pass by Popular bookstore in Sunway Carnival Mall, I will get tempted again and again to buy their books. Because, they keep having this RM 8 promotion. It's like each book cost RM 8 or above. The most expensive I think will only be RM 20. 
At first there were a bunch of thriller and mystery novels on the shelf, but when I finally decided to buy some books there, those books just went "poof!". They were replaced by romance novels *which most of the books look kinda slutty* Goddamit, I should've bought them earlier! I was always hesitating to buy non-academic books because I'm worried that they will just sit at my home and collect dust. I super regretted that I hesitated for so long. Nevertheless, I still went on a book haul with my book vouchers! 

At first I went to The Roof at First Avenue for some event, together with my parents. We were bored during the event, so my mum and I left The Roof for a while and went to get some fresh air in 1 Utama. We planned to do some window shopping, but our shoes wouldn't let us. I was wearing a pair of new flats, which was "eating up" my legs and I was beginning to get boils around my ankles. My mum, on the other hand, was wearing a pair of heels. 

After 30 seconds of entering 1 Utama, we decided to just find a place to eat some snacks and rest (most importantly, to SIT. Haha.) We first saw Pizza Milano, which is an Italian pasta restaurant. I was not in the mood for any pizza, of course, so did my mum. Well, anyway we just sat there and ordered DESSERT. LOL. While my mum was having fun with her Ipad, I finished up the dessert and went to Popular Bookstore, which was just right opposite Pizza Milano. All the books I bought was mostly related with music. I know it will take me a million years to just learn a song, still I splurged RM150 onto 4 books. Two on piano, one on guitar, and one crosswords book. 

Ultimate Piano by Nick Freeth and 

Play The Piano Made Easy by Alan Brown and Jake Jackson

The Complete Guitar Course by Tom Fleming

Crossword by Parragon

Something to improve my vocabulary :P 

or a "copy answer book"

After a few weeks, I went to Sunway Pyramid with my secondary school buddies, and from Popular Bookstore again, I bought an ENCYCLOPEDIA!! It's about animals. AGAIN, of course, the encyclopedia took me 30 minutes to decide on it. Until one of my friend *who was waiting for me* ended up sitting on the floor at the magazine section to update herself about celebrity gossip news. Haha. My other friend was also hesitating with me, just that her "target" was comic books and others. She's a all-time major hardcore anime fan. Hehe.

I'm really glad I bought this Animal Encyclopedia! I kept pondering on which encyclopedia to buy, as under the Highlights section there were 2 encyclopedia on display. One was about animals, and the other one was about science discoveries. The books were sealed and I didn't know that I can actually go to the counter to rip them off, so I kept hesitating. In the end I chose the animal one, because after studying the "science discoveries" book COVER carefully, I found out that I already knew some of the stuff included in that encyclopedia (I mean, I already studied science for so years, those were the people who invented some stuff, bla bla, microscope, etc)

Animal - The Definitive Visual Guide To The World's Wildlife by DK

The book cover is SOOO COOOL! Absolutely diggin the cover, you know why? It looked like a zebra with an INTENSE stare *or maybe a sleepy stare* and I thought that was it. 

But it wasn't. 

When I touched it, I was like "Whoa! Hold your horses zebras!!" The black stripes of the zebra felt like popped up fabric on the cover. Haha I wasn't expecting that so it came to me as a surprise! 

At the end of the day, I'm really happy that I bought these books instead of medical books. I guess I need to have a life outside textbooks, after all. :D

Review - Nivea Sparkling White Pore Minimizing Oil Control Foam

Today I'm going to review about a cleanser I've just started using recently. I've had this cleanser since forever, I wondered why I haven't been using it? Also, my skin started peeling/flaking off again since the weather is getting super hot nowadays. So I stopped using my Melaleuca cleanser which is too drying for me. It was already running out, anyway. Hehe.

While going for a vacation a couple of weeks ago, I brought it with me since it's of a smaller size and is travel convenient. I'm glad I started using this because it's definitely one of the best cleansers I've used!

Product Description :

NIVEA Sparkling White Pore Minimizing Whitening Oil Control Foam (50 g)

Skin looks its best when it's flawless even without makeup and with less visible pores.
New NIVEA Sparkling White Pore Minimizing Oil Control Foam with innovative White Acne Prevention Technology and toner ingredient that is 2x smaller molecule does not whiten but also deeply cleanse to purify 5 impurities for that perfectly refined & fairer skin from all angles. 

DOES NOT CLOG PORES.
Skin compatibility dermatologically approved.
Free of colorants.

Usage Direction :
Apply gently to wet face, neck and decollete by massaging in small upward circles, avoiding the eye area. Rinse off with lukewarm water.

Ingredients
Aqua, Potassium Myristate, Propylene Glycol, Potassium Palmitate, Potassium Stearate, Glycerin, Potassium Laurate, PEG-150, PEG-8, Glyceryl Stearate, Carnitine, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Lactate, Aluminium Chlorohydrate, Cera Alba, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Potassium Arachidate, BHT, Trisodium EDTA, Potassium Oleate, Alcohol Denat., Polysorbate 20, Parfum

Packaging :
The scent reminded me of the fragrance that always emanates out of the Lovely Lace shop. It also sorta smelled like baby powder. A calming scent, I would say. :D But those who find Lovely Lace's fragrance annoying may think that the aroma is a little bit overwhelming. For me, it's still acceptable :) It has a soothing effect on my mind, just like aromatherapy.

Review :
It forms a rich foam lather that's rather thicker and creamier than the usual foam cleansers.
After rinsing off, my face feels squeaky clean and all the oils on my face are washed off completely. I really like the feeling of having an extremely clean face, but I heard that it's not good if a face wash leaves your face squeaky clean as it removes all the oils on your face, including the natural oils that prevents skin from drying out. Even so, my face did not become overly drying nor skin flaking off. So, I guess this product is less drying than my previous Melaleuca cleanser. 

My pores, especially those on my nose, definitely became less visible and my blackheads were reduced. One thing I realize after using this cleanser was that my nose became shiny! Haha. Is it weird? It's not shiny because of oily, but it's because my nose is just so clean after rinsing and drying my face! 

Well, I didn't really notice any whitening changes, they may be masked by the effects of my whitening skincare routine! :D Anyway, I myself really like this cleanser! I should have started using this a long time ago, since it also has acne prevention technology. For now, I seldom have acne except for the time of the month, so I can't really comment about the acne prevention effects. But I can say that my acne definitely pop out less often after using this product! I absolutely love this cleanser, especially the scent!

My Verdict :

Pros :

• Leaves skin squeaky clean and oil-free
• Pores visibly reduced

Cons :

• None

What do you think about this product? I'd love to know! :D


**This is not a sponsored review. All opinions are honest and the product(s) are bought with my own money.

Review - L'oreal Series Expert Absolut Repair Shampoo

Time for another hair product! I've finished up the Schwarzkopf Bonacure Oil Miracle Shampoo (read my review here) and it was awesome! But I will need to finish up all my "pending" shampoos before buying a new one. 

Today's product is from the famous brand L'Oreal! I've never tried any L'Oreal hair products before. I'm very glad that I got one of their hair products from The Lilac Box 7! From the box, I received a repairing masque from the same line as well. But that will be in another review! Shampoo review for today!

Product Description :
(from their website)

L'oreal Series Expert Absolut Repair cellular Shampoo 100ml

• Repairing shampoo for very damaged hair
• Nourishes the fiber and repairs very damaged hair

Série Expert, a complete haircare system with exclusive home care regimens and in-salon treatments, features innovative molecular precision technology. The advanced technology behind this range allows formulas to target specific parts of hair to help deliver long-lasting results. With a range for every hair type, Série Expert provides the nourishing protection needed to achieve beautiful, healthy looking hair.

Healthy hair is hair where the cell structures and ionic bonds are intact and strong. In sensitized and damaged hair, cortex cells are disconnected, weakening the internal structure and leaving the hair dry, rough and dull.

Very dry, damaged hair needs intense repair from the inside out. And for solution comes your Date: with the new Lactic Acid Technology has the power to reach to the heart of the hair fiber to repair broken bonds while simultaneously working at the surface of the hair to smooth the cuticle for a shiny, glossy finish.

Just in 10 days of daily using of Absolut Repair Cellular Shampoo and Masque, your hair becomes 74% stronger and 83% softer and more conditioned.

Hair type : 
For very dry, damaged hair

Benefit : 
Damaged hair adores this fabulous shampoo. Enriched with Lactic Acid technology, the formula gently eliminates residue while protecting the hair fiber for regained strength and shine.

Application : 
Distribute evenly through wet hair and lather. Rinse thoroughly. Repeat process if necessary.

Ingredients :
Aqua/water, sodium laureth sulfate, coco0betaine, glycol distearate, sodium chloride, amodimethicone, disodium cocoamphiodiacetate, polyquaternium-6, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, sodium benzoate, salicylic acid, carboner, sodium glycolate, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, trideceth-6, lactic acid, linalool, hexyl cinnamal, cetrimonium chloride, limonene, 2-oleamido-1,3-octadecanediol, Cl 19140/yellow 5, Cl 15985/yellow 6, sodium hydroxide, citric acid, parfum/fragrance C45171/1
Made in Spain

Packaging :

I got a smaller sized bottle of 100ml. It's quite solid upon holding it, but you still can squeeze out the product. It might get harder to squeeze as the shampoo becomes lesser, but I absolutely love the packaging of this shampoo, especially it's golden hue with a beige undertone. Maybe it's just me, but the golden color made it looked classy. :P

This product smells amazing! Its scent resembled a mix of lemon and aloe vera. At first "sniff" it smelled just like Nature Republic Aloe Vera Gel, but slowly a lemon scent radiates out of the bottle. It just smells so good! :D

It works into a rich lather without effort! It felt refreshing with it's lemony scent. 

My hair is dry and pretty much damaged by the sun instead of hair dyes. I never dyed my hair in my whole life, but I ended up having brown-colored hair .. The only explanation is sunlight! (or some genetic change zomg!). According to The Lilac Box, this shampoo rebuilds the ionic junctions which ensure cohesion within the fibre. Means, it is able to make your hair stronger and reduce split ends, since it enhances cohesion within hair fibres. It is also able to form saline bonds between keratin chains exposed in the cortex of damaged hair.

After using it, my hair did became softer and easier to manage. It didn't leave a super wonderful magical shiny finish, still my hair ends looked much better and healthier! It's appears as if I never had dry/damaged hair. Split ends was also gone too! (Suddenly my hair looks so good) However, it doesn't solve my dandruff problem as I still can see some "snowflakes" on my scalp. My dandruffs are "permanent residents" of my scalp, so I wouldn't blame this product for not doing anything in getting rid of my dandruffs.

One major thing I realize from using this product was that my hair becomes stiff and sticky after one day. It was fine on the day I washed it, but the day after felt like hell. It gave me the feeling of "I didn't wash my hair" and was hard to manage. But the odd thing was, it only occurs around my "frontal hairzone" - around my loooooong fringe. I did not have sticky hair at my hair ends. Weird. Maybe it's the lactic acid technology or whats not.

My verdict :

Pros :

• Lathers up easily
• Nice scent
• Makes hair softer, manageable right after wash
• Scalp less oilier, healthy hair ends

Cons :

• Doesn't leave a shiny finish
• Doesn't work on dandruffs
• Hair becomes sticky after 1 day

Have you ever tried this product? Does it work in repairing your hair? Let me know! :D

**This is not a sponsored review. All opinions are honest and the product(s) are bought with my own money.

Review - Oriks Gemstone Nano Platinum Aqua Watery Cream

Time for another review! Today's product is gonna be Oriks Gemstone Nano Platinum Aqua Watery Cream!

I got this from the Vanity Trove months ago (read the post here) but haven't used it as it was tucked away in my beauty stash. Now that the weather is all HOT HOT HOT and my face is playing tricks on me again. My T-zone gets oily fast, and my U-zone dries up even faster, it's time for some hydration stuff!

Product Description :

Oriks Gemstone Nano Platinum Aqua Watery Cream (1g x 3ea)

Our NP Gemstone Soothing Cream protects and repairs your skin. The fresh texture and the aquatic scent and the formula provide vitality, freshness and hydration that lasts all day long.

It contains Recoverine which are Patent Nano Platinum particles surrounded by Ginsenocide.

Made in Korea

Suitable for all skin types and makeup use.

How to use : 
Apply evenly on face after using toner and serum/essence.

Ingredients :
Aqua, Cyclomethicone, Dimethicone, PEG-32, Glycerin, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, PEG-10 Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Sodium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Colloidal Platinum, Fragrance, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, imperata Cylindrica Root Extract, PEG-8, Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, Propylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Potassium Sorbate, Diamond powder, Nephrite Powder, Pearl Powder, Amethyst Powder, Amber Powder, Tourmaline, Coral Powder, Ruby Powder

Packaging :
The box contained 3 capsules of cream in cute pink packaging. The box itself is so shiny and deflecting that even I myself had a hard time shooting it. Haha. At first I thought I will need to cut the opening of the capsule, but turns out it was conveniently designed for opening in the packaging itself. I just pressed down the top part of the capsule and "pop!", a small opening comes out! Cute, right? The flatter side of the capsule can be teared off, just like how you would open a new contact lens container. It reveals the cream which is a translucent gel-like cream. 

Review :
I was surprised by the amount of minerals contained in this product! It contains seven minerals in total that boasts different functions :

Nephrite : Improve on blood circulation
Coral : Hydrating
Pearl : Anti-Ageing
Amethyst : Exfoliating
Diamond : Skin Renewal
Amber : Soothing
Ruby : Calming

As you can see, that's a lot of functions in one product!  It's is in gel-like form, but upon application, it becomes watery and melts away easily. However, after application, my face looks shiny/oily. It was somewhat sticky, and still remain so after having it overnight. To be honest, the stickiness was a little bit annoying. Even so, my skin felt smooth and appeared matte after washing it off the next day. It didn't cause any breakouts throughout all three times of using it. I didn't feel any calming effect though, maybe because I kept getting bothered with the stickiness. Since I've only used it several times, I can't really comment about the other effects like anti-ageing, skin renewal, blood circulation improvement etc.

My Verdict :

Pros :

• Leaves face moisturized and smooth
• Face becomes matte after washing off

Cons :

• Sticky after application
• Skin looks super shiny/oily
• Contain lots of paraben

Have you tried this product before?

**This is not a sponsored review. All opinions are honest and the product(s) are bought with my own money.

Review - Unico Mask of Love

It's time for a facial mask review! I received a facial mask from Bag Of Love March/April Edition. It's a co-creation between Bag Of Love and Unico, and it's called Mask of Love! Since it's specially made by Bag Of Love, it's only sold here. 

Product Description :

Soothing & Hydrating Bio-Cellulose Mask
with Phyto H.A + Cactus + Honey

Mask of Love is a Soothing and Hydrating Bio-Cellulose Mask, Bio-cellulose masks are made of fermented plant fibers which closely adheres to the face and has superior ability to penetrate ingredients into the skin. It is also widely used in medical bandage owing to its cool down effect and excellent function on dressing change to wound.

Then it has the key ingredients of Phyto H.A (a plant derived alternative to Hyaluronic Acid which has excellent moisturizing property), Cactus (a powerful antioxidant), Honey (antibacterial and soothing) and Lavender (calming).

Usage Directions :
1. Cleanse and dry face thoroughly.
2. Remove white plastic foil, apply mask onto face and adjust to closely fit, remove the blue attachment.
3. Leave on for 15-25 minutes. Remove the mask when nutrients are fully absorbed.
4. Tap your face completely for final absorption into your skin.

Ingredients :

Packaging :
The mask is in a plastic foil pack and is folded nicely with a sheet of plastic closely attached to it (for maintaining the moisture in the mask I think). The opening for the eyes are obviously smaller than the usual facial masks in the market. It's made of bio cellulose, which is better than the normal cotton masks that we buy.
I personally think that it is better this way, since it will cover up most of my eye area (but I'm still able to see, because my eyes are THAT small. Haha). Also, the mask is BLUE in color! This is the first time I've seen a mask that's blue in color.

Review :
As mentioned in the description, it really did a good job in hydrating my face. In the morning, my face is not oily at all. While having the mask on, it's just so relaxing. Maybe it's because of the lavender scent? I love to indulge myself in pampering sessions like this occasionally.  

It's quite costly for a mask (RM19 each), maybe I will buy it after saving up some money ;)

Have you tried this mask? Let me know what you think about it!


**This is not a sponsored review. All opinions are honest and the product(s) are bought with my own money.

Review - Melaleuca Zap-It! Facial Wash

Today's review is about a cleanser that I've been using since FOREVER. Now I'm wondering why I didn't begin my blog with a review about my long-time cleanser? I guess I was too carried away by my sudden skincare and makeup obsession that I forgot to post about the cleanser I used the longest. 

I've used this for almost 3 years now, and it's considered an "uncommon" brand(?). It's neither drugstore nor high ended, but it's from the company Melaleuca. Yes, my family was involved into this direct selling company few years ago and have been using their products ever since. However, we didn't replace all of our household products with Melaleuca products. We only used some of them such as facial products, dishwashing liquid, sanitiser and so on. Haha that sounded like everything. 

Enough rambling, lets get started with the review already!

Product Description :

MELALEUCA Zap-It! Facial Wash 177ml / 6 fl.oz

• Effective yet gentle cleanser
• Removes oil to help prevent breakouts

Uses :
For blemishes

Usage Directions :

• Cleanse skin twice a day
• Wet face
• Apply to hands, add water, and work into a lather
• Massage face gently, rinse thoroughly
• Because excessive drying of the skin may occur, start with one application daily, then gradually increase to two or three times daily if needed or as directed by a doctor.
• If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every other day.

Active ingredient :
Salicylic acid

Inactive ingredients :
Butylene glycol, disodium cocamphodiacetate, fragrance, T36-C5 Melaleuca Oil, phosphoric acid, sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate, sodium chloride, water 

Product of USA

Packaging :
It comes in a tube that looks just like a usual facial cleanser, what's different is that it's transparent. Apparently, it is the first step in the zap-it! routine. I forgot what products are included in the following steps, but I've been only using this product for years now. It is a slightly yellowish translucent liquid, and lathers up pretty well.

Review :
It has a slight tea tree scent, since it contained T36-C5 Melaleuca Oil, which is similar to tea tree essence. Those who find the smell of tea tree annoying might don't like this product, but for me it's still within acceptable range. I personally find the smell of tea tree essence a little bit too compelling, but this cleanser is okay. It also contained salicylic acid to control acne breakouts. I've often have breakouts on my oily T-zone when I was in my secondary school. I have long fringe at first so that my forehead will be kept clean, but one day I went and cut bangs, and BANG! All my pimples started popping out. Ever since I had bangs, I became unconfident with my forehead because there were pumps and redness all the time. After using this cleanser, my acne has slowly decreased and now, my forehead is clean and clear! I'm glad I used this product.

The cleanser forms a bubbly lather and only a little amount is needed. Using too much may lead to excessive drying. 

Of course, the downfall of this product was that it was drying out my skin. As mentioned in the description, excessive drying or peeling may occur. I've experienced it multiple times while using this product, it comes and goes, like "episodes" of dryness. It normally occurs with peeling of the skin around my nose, cheeks and lip corners (U-zone). It's super irritating whenever I see my skin peeling, it just so unpleasant to look at! It's like I lived in a dessert. But maybe that's how it's preventing acne, by removing oils from my face. I guess it's a good thing(?)

My Verdict :

Pros :

• Very effective in treating my acne problems
• Has a mild tea tree scent

Cons :

• Too drying, not suitable for dry skin
• Bothersome peeling may occur

Do you use this cleanser as well? Let me know if you do! (Not many people do, though :P)


**This is not a sponsored review. All opinions are honest and the product(s) are bought with my own money.

Review - Schwarzkopf BC Bonacure Oil Formula Shampoo

Today's review is about something miraculous that calmed down my African Lion hair! It's the Schwarzkopf Oil Formula Shampoo I received from The Lilac Box 7!

Some background info about my hair :
- I have extremely thick, frizzy hair and I don't cut them often, so they just piled up on my head like a bush/lion's mane.
- My hair color is brown for no apparent reason, maybe just damaged by the sun unknowingly.
- My hair is very dry, occasionally there are split ends, and I have oily scalp, often with dandruff problems.

Product Description :

Schwarzkopf Professional BC Bonacure Oil Miracle 30ml

Defy Gravity and Shine On

BC Oil Miracle Shampoo with Micro Emulsion Oil Technology, ensures that just the right amount of nourishing oil remains at the porous spots of the hair surface whilst smoothening it at the same time - resulting in fascinating suppleness and opulent shine.

A non-overburdening shampoo for tangible smoothness

LIVE THE EXPERIENCE

• Gently cleanses all hair types
• Lightweight formula
• Non-overburdening
• Adds shine

Usage Direction :
Work into wet hair and rinse out.

Ingredients :
Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Dicaprylyl Ether, Sodium Chloride, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Polyquaternium-10, Panthenol, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Cocamide MEA, Citric Acid, Parfum, Glyceryl Oleate, Sodium Benzoate, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Benzophenone-4, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Benzoic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Linalool, Limonene, Cl 15985

Made in Germany

Packaging :

I received a sample sized product so it's just a normal tube in which you squeeze out the shampoo. The full-sized product looks like a larger version of the sample, so I guess maybe it's made of the same material?

Texture : 

This shampoo has a gel-like consistency unlike other shampoo. Reminded me of melted orange jelly. It is light orange in color, with a slight baby powder-like scent. I personally really liked the scent of this product, I have never smelled any shampoo like this. It don't have the typical overwhelming shampoo smell but it is pleasant smell in its own way.

Review :
While using, it lathers up very quickly, but there's still a little bit of dandruff left after washing.
Even so, I was incredibly amazed by this product. My hair became remarkably softer and silky smooth after wash! It felt like I used hair conditioner even when I didn't! There was still some frizzes that weren't calmed down, but I loved the soft feeling of my hair. I may be over the board by saying this, but it gave me the feeling of I did rebonding again. Each time after rebonding, my hair feels smooth and I can comb it effortlessly only using my fingers. BC Oil Miracle Shampoo definitely reminded me of that feeling. :D

This product is definitely on my wish list already! I'm so gonna buy a full sized product of this after finishing up all my current shampoos haha.

My Verdict :

Pros :
1. Hair becomes soft and healthy looking
2. Easy to comb after use, tamed my frizzy hair
3. Pleasant smell

Cons :
None that I can think of!


What are your thoughts about this product? Let me know in the comments below!


**This is not a sponsored review. All opinions are honest and the product(s) are bought with my own money.

Review - Laneige Fresh Brightening Cleansing Oil

Next one coming up! A review about a cleansing oil that I'm currently using, the Laneige Fresh Brightening Cleansing Oil!

I got this from my Qoo10 Shopping for Laneige Samples 1 month ago, since my Elianto Reveal Cleansing Oil was running out (check out that review here) and I was eager to try more Laneige products! 

I bought the three New Cleansing Trial Kit in total, in which each of the Trial Kit included the Fresh Brightening Cleansing Oil, Multi Cleanser and Lip & Eye Remover Waterproof. 

But today's review is gonna be about the cleansing oil only :)

Product Description :

Laneige Fresh Brightening Cleansing Oil 25ml

Light cleansing oil containing apricot seed oil that takes care of dead skin cells, creating a brightening effect without heavy feeling.

Product Benefits :

• Light cleansing oil containing apricot seed oil that takes care of dead skin cells, creating a brightening effect.
• Grapefruit and apricot seed are oils full of vitamin C and natural salicylic acid, which remove dead skin cells, restoring your original, pure skin while alleviating skin reddening.
• Wash-off elements that are water-friendlier ensure quick, light wash.
• Gypsophila paniculata root extract, a natural cleanser, mildly yet thoroughly washes off even the heaviest makeup.
• FREE of mineral oil that blocks your pores - a non-stimulating cleansing experience.

Packaging :

The Fresh Brightening Cleansing Oil sample comes in a clear orange plastic bottle with a screw cap. It's quite sturdy for a plastic bottle and can withstand some hammering on the table (I hammered it on the table few times because it was so solid I thought it was made of glass. Haha) 25ml makes it a small bottle convenient to carry around while traveling.

It has a fruity citrus smell that resembles grapefruit. You know, when you smell it, it feels like there's a whole bunch of vitamin C sitting inside the bottle, waiting for you to rub them onto your face. The oil itself is a clear liquid similar to water. On your hands, it still feels oily (of course, it's a cleansing oil after all!)

Review :

Since the one I bought was sample sized, it comes as 25 ml instead of a whopping 250ml. The full sized product was quite expensive too so I wanted to try it out and see whether if it's worth it. Until today, I still kinda freak out with the thought of using oils on my face as I worry there will be breakouts and such. 

I've experienced different results from different usage methods. At first, I followed the usage directions but something weird happened to my face. I poured some onto my palm and massaged it onto my face slowly for 30 seconds. It gradually becomes harder to massage my face within the 30 seconds. It was like the oil is concentrating itself on my face, or it is slowly drying out while rubbing. Then, I added some water and continued massaged for another 30 seconds. After adding water, it turned into a milky emulsion. It definitely became easier for me to massage my face after adding water, and I felt some particles rolling on my skin(?) which I don't what is it.. dead skin?

After completing my cleansing routine with cleanser, I found out my skin became more dried out than usual. My skin was obviously cracking and flaking off especially at the areas around my U-zone. I wonder whether if I'm the only one experiencing this? It was very unpleasant. With a dried skin, it became harder for me to put on makeup of course. 

Good news is that, after using Laneige White Plus Renew Skin Refiner, my skin became normal for a while and stop flaking off. I needed to use extra cream/moisturizer to prevent my skin start flaking. 

Now, for the bad news. After half day with my makeup on, my skin started flaking off (again!) around my lip corners and cheeks. Putting on additional BB creams onto it or trying to rub it off just made it worse. I can't stand looking my skin flaking off, so I just removed everything around my cheeks and lip corners with a makeup remover and redo my makeup again with the Laneige BB Cushion. That's something I personally experienced. 

I found out that if I just used the cleansing oil with water from the beginning, then my skin wouldn't flake off and I can skip all these problems ahead. Still, it left a much drier feeling compared to the Elianto Reveal Cleansing Oil. Weirdly, it leaves a shinier finish compared to the Reveal Cleansing Oil. Conflicting enough? Haha.

After using it, it does clean up my makeup pretty well, at least better than the Elianto one. It was able to remove most of my face makeup, except that there's still some residue left from my lipstick and waterproof eyeliner. It is easy to wash off with water and didn't leave an oily residue on my face. 

However, as I mentioned from my different experiences from different usage methods, it does not leave a soft finish like the Elianto Reveal Cleansing Oil. It is definitely much more drying and excessive rubbing will prove to make the flaking skin even worse. I think that this cleansing oil might not be suitable for those with extremely dry skin, since there's no problem (flaking off) on my T-zone.

Also, I can't really comment about the whitening effects since I was using other whitening skincare products as well. 

After using this product, I think it's not the one for me. I would need to find another cleansing oil soon. I'm glad that I bought samples first instead of the big bottle because it will be a big waste. 

My Verdict : 

Pros :

1. Removes my makeup pretty well

2. Pleasant citrus smell

3. Easy to wash off

Cons :

1. Dries up my face (if I doesn't rub it with water from the beginning)

2. Doesn't leave a soft feeling afterwards

3. Does not completely remove waterproof makeup

Did you experience the same thing while using this product or if it's just me? Let me know in the comments below!

Review - Laneige Multiberry Yogurt Repair Pack

I got a Laneige Multiberry Yogurt Repair Pack sample in my first splurge on Laneige skincare products, but I've only started using it recently because I was so busy and forgetful to do masks before my year break started.

Let's get it started already!

Product Description :

(Taken from Laneige website)

Laneige Multiberry Yogurt Repair Pack 20ml

Crystal clear & hydrated skin with Water Science

Repair pack that nourishes skin from deep inside and leaves skin supple

Product Benefits :

High concentration multiberry extract yogurt pack that nourishes skin from deep inside

Hydrates, nourishes and regenerates skin for supple and firming skin. - Sogurty™, a specialized fermented yogurt, promotes collagen synthesis, and enhances defense ability of skin from harmful external causes to leave skin healthier and firmer. It's anti-inflammatory effects also soothes skin from skin troubles.

Multi berry complex (various berry extracts from raspberries, blueberries, wolfberries, cranberries, and strawberries) delivers abundant nutrition and antioxidants to eliminate harmful free radicals.

* Exfoliation for smoother skin texture

- NAG (N-acetyl-D-Glucosamine), one of the NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor), and Niacinamide (a component of Vitamin B3) softens and clears micro size dead skin cells left after exfoliating for even denser and smoother skin texture.

* Richer plain yogurt texture

- Fresh creamy texture of yogurt nourishes skin with soft touch.

For all skin types

Usage Directions :

1. Use after washing the face and using the skin refiner.

2. Take an appropriate amount (2.5cm in diameter is recommended), and evenly spread on the face avoiding the eye area.

3. Thoroughly with lukewarm water about 5-10 minutes later.

* Use 1-2 times a week

* For best results, use Laneige Multiberry Yogurt Peeling Gel in advance.

* Caution : Do not eat. *I laughed when I saw this on their website*

Made in Korea

Packaging :

Since I got a sample sized product, it comes in a mini pastel pink tub that contains cream inside. Upon opening the tub, the first thing that came into my mind was the overwhelming smell of yoghurt making its way out. It smelled like real mixed berry yoghurt! (even made me hesitated whether if putting it on my face will be safe, maybe ants will come and eat me??) The fruity smell made me wanna eat the cream up myself. Haha. I was trying to withstand the urge of testing the cream .. with my taste buds. 

The cream is a pretty thick white cream on its own and sits in the tub. It's not watery and not gel-like at all. Application is easy as I normally just slather it up onto my face. I'm a messy person after all. Right after application, it's kinda sticky but you don't really have to worry about it since it only needs 5 to 10 minutes before washing it off. I normally just dream around or arrange my messy table while waiting for 10 minutes to pass, or just update my blog, in this case, it's this post! Haha!

My face became amazingly soft and moisturized after rinsing it off! It took some time since I used normal tap water to wash it off .. I'm lazy to prepare lukewarm water for the sake of rinsing it off. Anyway, my skin felt like baby skin .. I can't stop touching it! Ahhh so so smooth and velvety ..

It contains Sogurty™, which is a specialized fermented yogurt that boasts various functions like promoting collagen synthesis, and enhances the skin's defense resulting in a healthier and firmer skin. Laneige is always coming up with all these names - MelaCrusher™, Sogurty™, etc .. I bet they have a really good research team over there! (and a creative name maker, maybe o.o)

You know what, I love to pamper myself occasionally with masks (I know I'm already super pampered by my family) but masks are "high risk items that will make me sleep". 

I have a huge problem in which if I start lying on the bed, I will fall asleep within minutes (or even seconds!!). I don't know what my wonky-ponky stuff my hormones is doing in my head, or I'm just simply a pig. However, this "ability" has always been making myself to study while sitting up instead of lying down. I have to resist the temptation of lying on my soft bed and hugging my Chicky (I have a huge chicken stuffed toy) while reading my notes. Definitely fall asleep .. within seconds. That's why if I were to do any masks that requires more than 30 minutes, I will fall asleep! If it's a sheet mask I'm using, it will be like sucking up moisture and everything from my face before the sun rises and dries up my skin even more. Ugh.

Luckily I have this repair pack now, it only takes 5 to 10 minutes and you can wash it off! I'm sure I can keep my butt on the chair for 10 minutes .. (at most maybe nyahaha)

My Verdict :

Pros

1. Leaves skin smooth and silky soft

2. Short time required

3. Nice mixed berry yogurt smell

4. Easy application

Cons

1. Sticky after application

Have you ever tried this product? Let me know what you think about it! :D

Review - Sephora Smart Liner

New review coming up today!

So, I bought the Sephora Smart Liner during my last Sephora haul, and now I'm ready for the review!

Product Description:
(taken from www.sephora.com)

SEPHORA Smart Liner 0.4 ml / 0.014 fl.oz.

What it is:
A 24-hour wear eyeliner with innovative packaging that enables super-easy application and a mistake-proof, high-precision line. 

What it does:
Right- or left-handed, beginner or expert, this eyeliner’s ergonomic and innovative design makes perfection effortless and flawless. Apply your desired look in one slick motion and flaunt a bold, intense look with up to 24 hours of silky, smudge-proof wear. 

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates 
- Phthalates 

What else you need to know:
This product has been dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested. 

Research results:
According to a test on 33 volunteers after 14 days of use, 100% of the women agreed that Smart Liner was easy to remove.

Suggested Usage:

• Lift up your chin and look in the mirror below your face. Lower your eyelids so you can apply your makeup effortlessly. 
• For a doe-eyed look, press lightly on the tip to widen the line then apply over the base of the upper eyelashes allowing the line to go over the base of the eyelashes by 0.2 inch. 
• Hold the Smart Liner with the index finger hugging the upper curve of the utensil. The tip of the thumb should be close to that of the index finger. The other three fingers are folded in a hold over the Smart Liner. 
• Once you have a firm hold on the Smart Liner, draw a line from the inner corner of the upper eyelid towards the outer corner

Made in Germany

Packaging : The design of this product definitely worth mentioning! It is shaped differently from the normal eyeliners. The handle has a special curve which makes it easier for your fingers to hold the eyeliner. It surely offers a better and much more controlled grip, I can easily achieve a high precision line effortlessly with this liner.

Review

I used liquid eyeliner by Maybelline before (not sure of the name, it was a long time ago) and also used gel eyeliner before. But this, this was definitely easier to apply and I successfully created the perfect cat eye! Not too long not too short either. Totally satisfied with this eyeliner. But I will need more practice to have the perfect winged eye at every single use. :P

It doesn't state whether if it's waterproof or smudgeproof. When its on my hand, I tried smudging it and it did not smear at all. However, when I applied it onto my eye and after a few hours, my friends told me my eyeliner is smudging. It made me looked like a total panda (or someone who had been crying with her eyeliner on). It's not waterproof at all either, as I after one swipe of water, it just came off immediately. So non-waterproof = confirmed.

It is also very easy to remove. FOR REAL. I used a tissue and wiped it a few times and IT'S ALMOST GONE. I think this also explains why it smudges so badly onto my lower lids and undereyes. It just enhanced my dark circles. That's one thing I dislike the most..

Since it's not waterproof, I just used a Q-tip with a little bit of makeup remover on it and wiped my under eyes (I drew the eyeliner too much on my under eye line) and I was really pleasant with the results! I got the perfect cat eye! Finally!

Another thing that I found out is that while I was doing my cat eye, I took quite some time to draw the line in a perfect way. But the product became a little bit drier and harder to work with if I were to draw my eyeliner slowly. I guess I will have to speed up while using this eyeliner.

Another drawback of this product is that it is tested on animals. I only knew that after buying it. I will need to be more careful in buying makeup next time and keep an eye for those which are tested on animals. No doubt that their product quality is good, but I can't really accept the fact that it was created from the suffering of another life. From today onwards, I have to be super cautious of what is sold in the stores and only buy them after I do my "research"! 

I really want to give a HUGE TWO THUMBS UP to Sephora for such an innovative design! If only the felt tip does not dries up that quickly, I would be really satisfied with the product itself. It is dark enough, easy to apply and easy to maneuver around your eye corners for the perfect flick.This product is amazing! I managed to create the perfect cat eye! After using it, I 100% agree that this is the ultimate foolproof liner.


My Verdict :

Pros :

• Easy to maneuver around the eye, really easy to create the perfect winged cat eye
• Super intense dark black color line 
• Long lasting on the eyelids
• Free from harmful products like paraben, phthalates and sulfates
• Doesn't irritate my eyes

Cons :

• Not waterproof and smudgeproof
• Cap needs to be oriented correctly to make sure that the liner does not dries out. The cap is not 360 degrees "compatible" with the liner, you need to rotate and orient it in the right direction in order to make sure it really seals the product completely. If you're slightly careless, it might get dried out. Worse case, it might stain your cosmetic bag and have a total art show inside your bag while you chatting off with your friends.
• Tip dries quickly
• Tested on animals