Review: Avene Instant Smoothing Moisture Mask

Product information (source: avene.co.uk): Specific care for dehydrated and weakened sensitive skin which has become reactive (redness, tightness and stinging) due to various aggressions. The Soothing Moisture Mask is a genuine pampering care for your skin: Very rich in Avène Thermal Spring Water, this mask intensely releases all of the water’s soothing and anti-irritating properties. Its nourishing and moisturising elements restore the skin's barrier and thus increase skin hydration. This original formula has been designed for maximum skin absorption: fully replenished, the skin looks healthy and is once again soft, supple, and radiant

Review:
I bought this mask when my eczema was at its worst. Full red, slightly swollen, itching and stinging, dry patches all around my cheeks, forehead, jaw area and near my chin area. Basically everywhere except my nose and central chin area, i suspect because the t-zone is slightly oilier so it acted as a barrier against my eczema.

I was using Avene Skin Balancing Cream but I felt it was not rich enough and my skin was still very very dry. I read the instructions of the Avene Instant Soothing Moisture Mask and it said that if skin is highly irritated, the mask can be used as a daily treatment for a week before reducing usage to once a week. So what I did was a used a thick layer of Avene Instant Smoothing Moisture Mask, didn't wipe any of it off after 10-15 minutes and layered the Avene Skin Balancing Cream on top (yes, that was how dry and irritated my skin was). After doing that for a few days and applying topical medication, my eczema improved.

Thereafter, with less severe eczema or any sign of skin redness. I noticed this mask did help to calm my skin down. And it did help alleviate skin dryness, which is a good thing as my skin gets really dry when it is sensitive/irritated.

When my skin is at a normal condition, I noticed that not much effects is observed. So I would only use this mask when I have eczema/sensitivity/irritation/dryness. If your skin is normal or combination with no sensitivity. I think you would not notice much effects with this mask. But if you have any of the above mentioned skin signs, then this mask is helpful.

One word of caution, this mask does contain potential pore clogging ingredients, like mineral oil and other really rich and emollient ingredients. So I would use it with caution if you have oily skin or are prone to clogged pores. I have read that some people wash off the mask completely with water to prevent getting clogged pores. I don't do this and only dab any excess off with tissue if it feels oily as I need the oiliness to combat my dry skin.

All in all, great mask to have on hand for any emergencies, to calm skin sensitivities, dryness and eczema.

My Experience: Dry Skin, Use Sleeping Mask as a Serum

My skin type is normally combination, slightly oily at the t-zone and dehydrated at the cheeks.

Recently, my skin has been very dry and even flaky at the nose area. So I have been trying all means and ways to rehydrate my skin. Dry skin is a pain as it hurts at times when using certain skin products and causes my skin to be more sensitive than usual and my eczema sometimes flares up as well.

The routine I have been sticking with has been working well:

Cleansing: Shu Uemura cleansing oil. Avene gel cleanser
Toner: Clinique Clarifying Moisture Lotion 2
Serum: Laneige Water Sleeping Pack
Moisturiser: La Mer Creme de La Mer

Yes, I have been using Laneige Water Sleeping Pack as a serum, before moisturiser every night and I find it works nicely as a hydrating serum and a wonderful water boost for my skin. It takes a while to absorb and sink in, but it's like I am using a hydrating mask and then using the Creme de la Mer to seal the moisture in. I find that this works better than the other way round: Creme de la Mer then Laneige Water Sleeping Pack. I can't explain why but the effect is just different. In the mornings, I wake up with everything absorbed. My skin is not oily in the mornings but nicely moisturised. Unfortunately, by mid day my skin gets dry again (might be the office air con).

I would only recommend this routine if your skin is really dry or dehydrated like mine as it is this routine is not only rich in moisture but also in oil content. Dry skin means lacking in both oil and moisture, dehydrated skin lacks moisture but not oil. The Creme is really rich in the sense that it is very emollient and acts as a good barrier to prevent moisture loss. This is why I always have a tub of creme de la mer with me cos its the best to use in such skin changes and emergency situations like sensitive reactions.

So, if you have dry skin, you can try using your sleeping mask as a serum before an emollient (rich, oily) moisturiser. It might work better than using it as the last step.

Review: Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

Product Information (credit: queenhelene.com):

Mint Julep Masque is the original natural home treatment to help dry up pimples, rinse away blackheads and shrink enlarged pores. Simply apply Mint Julep Masque to your clean face and neck. As it firms and hardens within minutes, it draws out impurities from your pores. After the masque is removed, your skin will feel clean, refreshed and smooth. Even for individuals who are fortunate to be free of skin problems, Mint Julep Masque is a refreshing facial treatment that helps relax tired muscles and ease tension lines on the face and neck.

This is a popular Holy Grail deep cleansing mask for many, scoring high points on makeupalley. I bought this at one of the shops at People's Park Complex, I think. I am not very familiar with the chinatown area. But I think this is available online as well. The price was around $13+, but I remember I bought it at a discount so it was around $11.

I think this is quite value for money, with 226g. The tube I purchased had a bonus of 33% more mask. So it makes it a cheap and good deep cleansing mask. The mask is light green in colour, paste-like in texture. It can be difficult to spread the first one or two times you use it but the trick is to apply a thin layer by spreading the mask out evenly over a wide area. I don't think there is a need to apply a thick layer as it just takes longer to dry up, dehydrating the skin even more. It dries up quite quickly.

This reminds me of the Niu Er BeautyDIY Dead Sea Mud Mask, they function in the same way. Both dry up and suck the oil out of my pores. When the mask is dry, you can actually see the oil spots that were secreted from the pores. I prefer this Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque as it is less harsh on the skin and my skin does not feel overly dry after washing it off. My skin feels very clean after masking. I will still follow up with a hydrating mask.

The mask contains sulphur, which is good for drying up pimples. I sometimes use this Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque to spot treat my pimples. I apply directly on the pimple then leave it on overnight. The pimple doesn't disappear overnight, but it helps it become less inflamed.

But because Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque contains sulphur, I smell the sulphur more than the mint. I read reviews saying it smells of mint but to me, the sulphur smell is more significant and I sometimes can still smell it the next day, even after washing the mask off the night before. I don't really like this smell but it does remind me of some pimple cream I used when I was much younger.

All in all, great mask for the price. It does help dry up pimples, draw out impurities and make your skin feel very clean, but there was no difference in my blackheads and pores, contrary to the product description.

Review: Fancl Moist & Vital Mask (Limited Edition)

credit: fancl.com.sg

This is a limited edition mask from Fancl, but I think it is still available in stores, so go out to grab it if you want to try it out.

Fancl Moist & Vital Mask is a facial mask with a cream-type essence. Indeed, when I removed the mask from the packaging the first time, I thought: what a strange mask material. It felt plasticky but adhered nicely to the skin. There is a lot of excess essence when I removed the mask from the packaging and when I squeezed the mask material after using the mask for 15 mins, more essence was squeezed out, so the mask is nicely saturated with essence and because of the texture of the essence, there is no issue of dripping essence. It's the first time I am using a cream-type essence mask. The "cream" is more like an emulsion than a cream. It is very rich and would suit dry skin the best. I thought it was too rich for my combination skin and I only used this once a month. Although the mask is rich, it didn't cause any break outs or clogged pores.

After using the mask, my skin was very moisturised. It took more massaging than other masks for the essence to be absorbed. But then again, my face was still oily with the cream essence after massaging. After half an hour, I blotted the remaining oil with a tissue paper. I couldn't bring myself to follow the mask with a moisturiser, so I patted on some Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturising Lotion.

This Fancl Moist & Vital Mask contains HTC Collagen and Hydroxyproline , which enhances collagen production. And Hyaluronic Acids for long-lasting, intensive hydration.

This is a wonderful mask but too rich for my skin - very hydrating but too oily. It would be great for dry skin or if you're in a dry climate.

Skincare-holic's 2010 Favourites List

2010 is coming to an end and I thought I'd do up a Favourites List like the one I did for 2009! I looked through the reviews I did in 2010 and rounded up the few I really liked.


Best 2010 Cleanser: Hada Labo AHA/BHA Tamagohada Exfoliating Face Wash Foam

This Hada Labo cleanser doesn't exfoliate well but it cleanses well enough. I like that it is self-foaming and convenient to use. It removes dirt and oil without making my skin feel dry or tight. I used to like Fancl Washing Powder a lot and this cleanser is a good competitor as it doesn't require a foaming ball nor do I have to worry about expiry dates.




Best 2010 Lotion: Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion

This lotion helped improve my skin texture. I could see that my dehydrated skin was more plumped up. It comes in a big bottle and each usage only requires a small amount, so it lasts a long time. 



Best 2010 Moisturizer: La Mer Creme de La Mer

This was the only cream I could use when I had patches of dermatitis on my face. It may be rich but if you control the amount you use it will not clog pores (I first press the creme into my cheek area before using the remaining on the t-zone). I like that it is quite soothing, even when my skin was sensitive and would react to most other products. I felt my skin become smoother with usage.


Best 2010 Hydrating Mask: Laneige Water Sleeping Pack

I used to like Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Relief but Clinique did not work well when my skin was very dehydrated and sensitive. It caused redness and stinging. Laneige, however, worked really well and helped restore my skin to normal. I don't experience any clogged pores even when I apply a thick layer. I wake up the next day with hydrated skin.

Best 2010 Clay Mask: BeautyDIY Dead Sea Mud Mask

I think this dead sea mud mask is cheap yet good. Its main purpose is to suck out dirt and excess oil from the pores so I don't need an expensive mask with wonderful ingredients and this mask does just that. As the mask dries, I can see spots of oil where pimple or blackheads are at, which shows it really works. It contains tea tree oil, which helps dry out and heal pimples. It is good to follow up with a hydrating mask to replenish moisture. 

Best 2010 Eye Mask: The Face Shop Raspberry Slim & Lift Collagen Eye Patch

I almost forgot that I really liked this eye mask until I looked through my 2010 reviews again. It is a bit pricey but it works nicely to hydrate and plump up my under eye area. After using this mask, the jelly-like mask becomes thinner, which shows the essence has been absorbed by the skin. I think I will be purchasing some more soon. 

Best 2010 Face Spray/Sensitive Skin Product: Avene Thermal Spring Water

I have been using this for a few years now and I always re-stock whenever there is the 2 for S$29.90 promotion. The Avene Thermal Spring Water soothes my sensitive skin really well and I even use it as an eye mask at times - by saturating a cotton pad with the spring water then tearing it into half and using it as a normal eye mask. It is cooling on the skin and reduces my redness effectively. It also helps when skincare products are too thick/sticky, I spray this over my face and try to massage the products in again. 

**This is all for my favourites list this year. It is too bad I didn't find a favourite sunscreen. I have been looking but haven't found one that I like yet. 

Do comment with recommendations of skincare products you like and find works well! I would like to try more skincare in 2011 =)

Review: The Face Shop Salon Effect Pearl Collagen Mask Powder

I bought The Face Shop Salon Effect Pearl Collagen Mask Powder thinking how nice it would be to have a salon style mask that I can use at home. I was hoping that it would give me the same experience as I usually have at facial salons. I was disappointed

This mask is difficult to use. I didn't use a bowl to mix my mask in as I didn't want to sacrifice yet another bowl for my facial products. This was a bad decision. I tried mixing the mask and water on my palm and it seemed like I was kneading dough. By the time I could properly spread the mask over my face, it was partially dried on my palm. I made a mental note to use a bowl the next time and it was as difficult to mix as before.

The biggest rant is not on how hard it is to mix the mask powder with water, but the fact the moment I spread the mask onto my skin, I felt immediate stinging sensation. The mask dried very fast so I peeled it off and the stinging was gone. But I could feel the stinging sensation the whole time it was on my skin.

I would not recommend this mask for anyone with sensitive skin. Firstly, due to the stinging as I mentioned above and secondly, because of a very strong perfume smell. Perfume usually causes irritation for those with sensitive skin and I think it is not worth trying this mask if you have sensitive skin.

Effects wise, when I removed the mask, my skin felt slightly smoother. And it was also red, not because it gave me radiance but redness due to the stinging.

I don't think I will purchase this again. It is not as cheap as masks that give me better results. The Face Shop Raspberry Slim & Lift Collagen Eye Patch is a much better buy than this Salon Effect Pearl Collagen Mask Powder.

Review: Niu Er BeautyDIY Dead Sea Mud Mask

I like to do a deep cleansing mask once a week. And a clay mask is my mask of choice as it is able to suck oil and dirt from my skin to prevent clogged pores and lift up impurities from my skin. The BeautyDIY Dead Sea Mud Mask is one of the best selling masks from the BeautyDIY line of products.

I like the BeautyDIY Dead Sea Mud Mask as it contains tea tree oil, which is beneficial for acne prone skin as it is a good anti-bacterial agent and kills the bacteria which causes pimples/acne. The BeautyDIY Dead Sea Mud Mask does not dry out my skin when I wash it off. There is no tight or stinging feel when it is dried or after washing so I find that it is not overly harsh for my skin.

How to use: I apply a thin layer of the BeautyDIY Dead Sea Mud Mask and allow it to dry before washing it off. It usually takes 10-15 minutes for it to dry. The colour of the mud turns from dark green to light green and you can see oil spots which are oil secreted from your pores. It is most visible around the nose. It shows that the product is really sucking up excess oil from my skin.

I usually follow with a hydrating mask to replenish moisture. When your skin loses oil, it becomes drier and when your skin is dry, it sends a signal out to produce more oil, so it is good if you follow with a hydrating mask to moisturise your skin.

I find that clay masks all serve the same function, which is to suck up excess oil accumulated in your pores, so I don't really buy expensive clay masks since they all serve the same basic function. The BeautyDIY Dead Sea Mud Mask is quite cheap (I bought it for around S$13-14) and the tub lasts me for quite a long time. I am currently using my second tub and I have not found a better replacement yet.

My Experience: La Mer Creme De La Mer as Treatment Face Mask

I dropped by the La Mer counter to replenish my La Mer Creme De La Mer or The Moisturising Gel Cream. I didn't know which to get as I like both. The Moisturising Gel Cream suits my skin type (dehydrated combination) better but the Creme De La Mer suits all skin type and when I use Creme De La Mer I use it around my eyes as well. 

I asked the SA for advice and she gave me two reasons to choose the creme. It seems she prefers it more. 

1. The creme is slightly more economical because one tends to use more of the Gel each time as it is less oily. This is really true! I realised very early on that I tend to use more Gel than Creme as I tend to be more careful not to scoop too much Creme cos of the risk of it being too rich for my skin. When I use the Gel it seems habitual to scoop more so that my skin is more than adequately hydrated and smooth. 

2. The SA taught me a new way to use the Creme - as a treatment face mask. I also spread it over my eye area as an eye mask. 

First spread a thicker than usual layer of the Creme onto your skin (without rubbing).

Leave it on for 5 minutes and then rub your hands together to warm them and press the Creme into your skin. The Creme will melt and then massage the Creme into your skin in upwards motion. This helps in lifting and firming. 

Then dab off the excess Creme with a tissue if you find that it is too oily. But I usually massage it in as much as I can, then I warm my palms and press them onto my face.

It is recommended that you use this about once every three weeks as a treatment face mask. It is very rich so it is not recommended to use it too often.

Price: $240 for 30ml

Review: Kose Seikisho Mask White

Product Information:

• Peel-off black whitening pack eliminates causes of dull complexion to maintain pure white clarity.
• Continually delivers active ingredients deep into keratin layer, while simultaneously removing keratotic plugs (comedos), melanin and old keratin that contribute to dark pores.
• Formulated with black nano-powder that readily disperses on skin, adhering tightly as if bonding with the skin, thanks to excellent film-forming power. Fast-drying too.
• Enriched with five Japanese and Chinese herbal extracts, including wormwood extract and goldthread extract - the first Seikisho product to incorporate these wholesome natural ingredients.
• Soothing floral fragrance enhances therapeutic effect. (source: kose website)

I find that this mask is not very effective in removing blackheads (comedones) for me. If I am lucky I see a few being pulled out, but it is usually not more than 5. What I usually see after pulling this mask off it some whitish stuff, which are dead skin flakes, which will also be removed by other scrubs. I also see fine facial hair pulled off, but I do wonder if it is a good thing or not. Do be careful not to apply the mask near your eyes of lips area as the pulling action will induce fine lines/ wrinkles!

I sometimes find it messy to deal with the blackish mask especially if it drips but it is not a big matter. If you are getting this mask to try removing blackheads, I think it does not work well enough. The whitening effects of this mask is minimal and if any, I would attribute it to the exfoliating effect of the mask after it pulls off your surface dead skin. You will get the same results using a normal scrub. You can experiment by using a scrub only on one hand and you will find it fairer than the other. The whitening/brightening effect is minimal and a whitening mask can do a better job.

I very much prefer Kose Sekisho Exfoliating Massage Gel than this Mask White. I like that the Exfoliating Massage Gel has a warming property that would not only open up the pores to aid exfoliation of dirt and sebum, it the heat also promotes blood circulation for a radiant complexion. The gel turns from black to gray to indicate enough scrubbing and this prevents excessive scrubbing of the skin. The gel acts like a cushion so the exfoliating beads does not feel harsh to the skin. There is also no waiting time involved, unlike Mask White where I have to wait at least 15 mins for the mask to dry. 

I would purchase Kose Exfoliating Massage Gel instead of Mask White, but there are many people out there who love the latter. I suggest trying out the two products at the counter and seeing which you prefer.

Read other Kose Sekkisei product reviews:

• Review: Kose Sekkisei Lotion
• Review: Kose Sekkisei White Powder Wash
• Review: Kose Sekkisei Emulsion
• Review: Kose Sekkisei Herbal Esthetic Whitening Mask

Review: Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

Product Information:

Light, comfortable cream/gel plumps skin with hydration for a full 24 hours. Fine lines, flakiness and tightness are washed away. In their place—a sense of supple, firm, vibrant well-being, even through shifts in humidity. One ‘drink’ and skin looks and feels happier, healthier. (from Clinique website)

 I used to love this product. I would bring this along with me onto the any flight when I travel and where the air humidity is very dry. It provides immediate hydration and leaves my skin hydrated for the entire flight with no feeling of tightness. It delivers everything the product description stated.

But, recently whenever I apply this product onto my skin, it stings and makes my skin red. I have no idea why this is happening. And it is disappointing as well as this product is one that I always stock up as it is my quick fix to dry skin.

I think I should ask a Clinique consultant about this change in skin reaction to the product. When I get my answer, I will post it here.

Review: BeautyEasy Lavender Detox-White Hydra C Mask

Product Information:

New clarifying treatment mask gives your face immediate visible results. It contains lavender essential oil to detoxify impurities, promote micro-circulation. With Vitamin C derivative, brightening botanical complex and bearberry leaf can even out patchy skin tone. Hyaluronic acid is a highly hydrating agent. Makes your skin bright, clear, luminous and well hydrated.

 This mask sheet adheres well and the material is comparable to Neutrogena Deep Hydrating Mask.  The mask essence is slightly thick and sticky when the essence starts to dry up after massaging the essence into my skin. The mask cut allows it to fit my face nicely.

The effects are quite good. My skin was effectively brightened and skin tone evened out. It didn't whiten much but it did what the description said it would - make my skin bright, clear and luminous. My pimple scar did not lighten but I think this mask is more for brightening up dull complexion than for whitening marks so I think that the effects are quite obvious for my skin. My skin felt quite well hydrated after using the mask as well.

One down side is there was a bit of stinging what I first put on the mask. It lasted for less that 5minutes. The good thing is it did not cause my face to turn red like some whitening masks would.

I also like that there are a lot of natural ingredients in the mask essence - Aloe, cucumber, bearberry, mulberry root and grape, among others. Ingredients like cucumber and aloe soothe the skin, which probably why my skin did not turn red.

All in all, I like this mask and it is affordable as well. Although not readily available in Singapore, you can purchase this through payeasy sprees over the internet. It has good brightening effects, good if you have dull skin. It worked well to brighten my eye area as well.

Review: Watsons Chamomile Face Mask

I used to be a big mask fanatic. I loved all masks and would mask every other day, sometimes everyday. But I have since cut down on my mask usage - firstly because it took too much of my time; secondly it made my skin dryer. So I had to constantly mask so that my skin would be moisturised. I read somewhere that if you mask too often, the skin would get the message that there is no need to produce that much natural skin oil (sebum) to lubricate the skin and hence resulting in dryer skin.

Before I cut down on my mask usage, I stocked up on the Watsons Chamomile Facial Mask when they had the $1 sale. As I masked so frequently, I thought it was a cheap and good mask to stock up on.

The mask sheet adheres well enough for the price. It does not adhere as well as the Neutrogena Deep Hydrating Mask, nor is it as moisturise as well but it does offer some brightening effects. My skin tone seems to even out after usage of the mask. That's why I stocked up on this flavour and not the others.

The mask essence is a bit on the sticky side, which is what I dislike about this mask. I like my mask essence to be watery and easily absorbed. I find it difficult to put on my moisturiser after using this mask unless I wash off the remaining mask essence after I am done massaging it into my skin.

As I mentioned before in my earlier entry, mask essences should not be thick and sticky because it contains ingredients to 'thicken' up the essence, very similar to using corn starch to thicken up sauces while cooking. Although watery is my preferred choice, there is also a caution that too much water with little good ingredients is also not good. So it is very important to read the label for the ingredient list every time you buy a product.

I hope you found the review and tips useful. The Watsons Chamomile Mask might not be the best mask around but in terms of affordability, it is good value for money.

Rate: 3/5

Review: Skinfood Kiwi Yogurt Mask Wash Off

I bought this Skinfood Kiwi Yogurt Mask while on holiday in Malaysia as I heard that it is cheaper to buy Skinfood products there compared to Singapore. Indeed, it was cheaper and so I bought this mask to try out.

Product Information

Exfoliating yogurt wash off facial pack with kiwi extract. Rich with vitamin and moisture controls oiliness and tightens pores.

I have finally finished using this Skinfood Kiwi Yogurt Mask after a while and thought I'd do a short review here. The reason why I am only doing a short review is because there really isn't much to say about this mask as there are no effects at all even if I use it or not.

The mask texture is creamy and yogurt like with green beads that disintegrate when massaged into the skin. I am not sure whether the green beads actually contain beneficial ingredients or are just coloured beads that make the mask look more 'kiwi-like'. I would have preferred a longer description of what the product is so I can be more sure.

As with my other wash off masks, I use this while in the bath for convenience sake as it would be easier to wash off. However, there are no effects on my skin. The mask does not moisturise my skin nor does it help control oiliness. There is also no effects on my pores.

I have been using this mask so as not to waste money since I have already purchased it. I think that this is a mask that can be skipped as there are better masks out there and not worth the price. Perhaps the only good thing is that it did not cause me any breakouts.

Price: S$18.50

Rate: 1/5   No effects. Save your money and buy something else.

Review: Kose Sekkisei Herbal Esthetic Whitening Mask

Product Information:

A unique massage cream mask that leaves skin feeling silky smooth and hydrated. Dramatically increases skin’s translucency, while minimizing the appearance of dark spots in just two minutes.

Suppresses melanin production to prevent sunspots.

Apply a quarter size amount to each, the chin, cheeks and forehead, using the enclosed spatula. Spread gently over face using a massaging motion for one minute. Leave on for one minute. Then remove mask with spatula. Tissue or rinse off remaining product.

Herbal Extracts: Citrus Junos Extract, Calamus Root Extract, Mallow Extract, Nettle Leaf Extract, Poria Extract, Coix Seed Extract, Angelica Extract,Melothria Extract, Moutan Bark Extract

The Kose Sekkisei Herbal Esthetic Whitening Mask is for intensive whitening care, smoothes the skin to keep it lively and radiant, helps fade the appearance of dark spots to leave skin brighter and even-toned.

I love this mask! It gives my skin immediate effects that I absolutely did not expect for a mask that is left on my face for only one minute.

This mask lives up to what it claims. My skin was instantly brightened and fairer, with a glow on my face. On top of that, it left my cheeks rosy pink. All of that is just 1-2 minutes.

This mask is perfect for a quick fix before any occasion, and even better for regular whitening maintenance. I always have a whitening product in my skincare regime, be it whitening serum, mask or moisturiser. The Herbal Esthetic Mask is one of my favourite whitening products that produce results fast.

I like that Kose included a spatula together with the mask as it is more hygienic since the mask comes in a tub form. The instructions included also state that the spatula can be used to remove the mask but I prefer to slowly massage away the cream mask which helps with blood circulation for radiant rosy skin.

The Herbal Esthetic Mask has a rich texture that is thick and ideal for massaging. As with the rest of the Sekkisei line, it has a whole lot of herbal extracts which help whiten skin and improve the health of our skin. The mask has a light herbal smell to it. Although rich, it does not leave my skin oily, but I have to say that the whitening effects surpass that of any moisturising effects.

A drawback is that it contains alcohol as the first few ingredients, but this does not disturb me as the mask is only left on my skin for 1-2 minutes and I believe it helps preserve all the herbal ingredients in the mask.

The Sekkisei Herbal Esthetic Mask is really convenient to use. I use it while bathing so washing it off is not a problem for me. I have heard of people complaining that it is difficult to wash the mask off but I massage it while rinsing it away so this is not a problem for me.

The mask come is a tub of 150ml, and although I remember it being a bit expensive, I find that it is well worth the price I paid for it (I cannot remember the exact price).

All in all, I really like this mask for the effects it produces, which is the most important factor in any skincare product. It leaves my skin fairer and radiant. 

Rate: 5/5

Read other Kose Sekkisei product reviews:

• Review: Kose Sekkisei Lotion
• Review: Kose Sekkisei White Powder Wash
• Review: Kose Sekkisei Emulsion 
• Review: Kose Seikisho Mask White

Review: Fancl White Clear Mask

Product Information:

WHITE CLEAR MASK is a preservative-free whitening treatment mask which cares for UV-damaged skin, controls melanin production, prevents freckles and spots.

Ideal for after sun exposure, it has Licorice Derivative to help soothe inflammation and calm the redness of UV-damaged skin.

Made of 100% natural cotton, the mask contains 16ml of rich beauty essence which penetrates deeply into skin to restore moisture and radiance. It is specially designed for Asian faces with whole face coverage including eye lids, for relieving dullness around eye area.

The Fancl White Clear Mask is quite pricey at $61.50 for 6 pieces but it works and I think it is worth the price tag.

The mask essence is absorbed nicely into skin after taking mask off, the essence is not overly thick as well. As I usually use this at night, I find that I wake up to a much brighter and fairer looking skin! My pimple scars fade considerably with the help of this mask.

I also find my skin moisturised and supple after massaging the essence into my skin. It feels as though there is no need for any additional moisturisers but it is important to put on skincare as per normal to seal in the essence and effects of the mask.

True to the product description, the mask sheet is able to fit snugly onto my face, so every part of my face is covered nicely. I like the eye flaps as well, so my eyes can get masked without the need for additional eye masks.

Rate: 4/5

Read other Fancl related posts:

• Review: DHC mild soap vs Fancl washing powder
  
• Fancl Skin Counselling Review
• Fancl Hyaluronic Premium Review
• Fancl Pore Essence Review
• Fancl Sebum Care Pack Review
• Fancl Facial services Review

Review: Neutrogena Deep Hydrating Mask

Product Information:

It is an intensive facial treatment mask that replenishes and restores moisture for deeply hydrated and bouncy skin. Shaped to fit the face, each mask instantly boosts skin’s moisture level 12 times with a penetrating Vitamin C formula, leaving skin soft and dewy with a healthy glow.
-Provides instant and long-lasting moisturization
-Deeply hydrates skin cells to leave skin bouncy
-Improves skin texture to leave it soft and smooth with a healthy glow

 My review:

I really like the Neutrogena Deep Hydrating Mask. It is non-sticky and the mask essence is of a watery consistency, unlike most masks that have more sticky and thick essence. This mask is my all-time favourite mask and the mask that I will always reach out for whenever I need some extra moisture.

Niu Er once said on the Nu Ren Wo Zui Da show that masks with thick essences usually have lesser good ingredients which are beneficial for the skin as they contains thickening agents that make the essence more sticky. Some people like these thick essences but in fact, it is the same as using corn starch to thicken the sauce when you are cooking. So, I always prefer masks that are more watery or cream based (like La Mer).

So the Neutrogena Deep Hydrating Mask is one good example of a mask that does not have thick and sticky essence and it really does its job well. I have tried many kinds of masks, including My Beauty Diary and Watsons brand masks but the Neutrogena Deep Hydrating Mask still trumps all of them in terms of hydration (I will not compare this with La Mer as it is in a totally different price league).

After 15mins and massaging in the remaining essence into my skin, my skin is plump with moisture and does not feel like there is a film over my skin (this happens with masks with thick essences). It is easily absorbed and massaged in, and my skin does not feel heavy even if I follow up with my usual skincare routine. I always travel with a few pieces of the Neutrogena Deep Hydrating Mask as it provides the moisture my skin needs in dry cold countries or in the airplane or air-conditioned hotels that 'suck' moisture out of my skin.

Maybe one little bad thing is that this mask does not have eye flaps. i know some people prefer eye flaps but I am okay with not having them as I usually do stuff while masking

I think this mask is affordable at the offer price of S$1.95. I bought 100 pieces during the last offer (*No joke!!). The price seems to have risen to S$2.95 when I last visited Watsons, so I'm really glad I stocked up.

Rate: 4.75/5

Review: Fancl Skin Renewal Pack

SKIN RENEWAL PACK is a rinse-off gel mask that removes dead skin cells and accelerates cell regeneration.
Fresh Royal Jelly Essence supplies Vitamins and Minerals and Amino Acid to soften skin for a more youthful-looking,
luminous complexion.

Regular usage promotes optimum absorption of skincare and helps makeup last longer.

 My Review:

I really like Fancl's philosophy of preservative-free products and I drink Tense-up EX on a regular basis. I also adore the mild cleansing oil and washing powder and have been using these two products for the past two years. I have tried Fancl's basic skincare line but have not been impressed. During the skin counselling session that I went for earlier, the BA recommended this Skin Renewal Pack to improve skin dullness and to replace my scrub as she said that scrubs with beads are not good for our skin texture, among the tips she taught me on how to improve skin texture was for me to use Skin Renewal Pack on alternate days to replace scrubbing. She also demonstrated how after using the Skin Renewal Pack on the face for a few minutes, our skincare products would be absorbed better and faster. She put Skin Renewal Pack on one hand then pur products on both hands for me to compare. And surprisingly, there was better absorption!

I purchased a tube and started using it, however I find that after using the Skin Renewal Pack my skin did not have any dramatic difference. It merely felt like I put a gel on my face then rinsed it off. I read some people saying that their skin became very supple, but the Skin Renewal Pack is a product to remove dead skin cells in a very gentle manner, so I didnt see how their skin could see results so quickly. So I continued using this Skin Renewal Pack but sadly, for me it didnt give me much results. Especially since I enjoy my toner, lotion, serums, moisturiser and night sleeping mask routine, aster so many products, there is a limit to the amount of 'quickness' the product got absorbed. I wanted a mask with quick results. This is more of a slow accumulative product where there will be some gradual results with long term use. I kind of still prefer using a normal scrub as I got a clean feeling instead of just gel.

But one good thing I like is the ingredient, royal jelly. All products with good and beneficial ingredients catch my eye and it is a good touch to add royal jelly for softening skin and with some anti-aging benefits as well.

The price is $29.50 for 25g and it gets used up quite fast as I was recommended to use it every alternate day. So it is a bit on the expensive side for a small tube that won't last very long.

Rate: 3/5

Read other Fancl related posts:

• Review: DHC mild soap vs Fancl washing powder
  
• Fancl Skin Counselling Review
• Fancl Hyaluronic Premium Review
• Fancl Pore Essence Review
• Fancl Sebum Care Pack Review
• Fancl Facial services Review

New Product! : La Mer - The Hydrating Facial Mask

As mentioned in my earlier post, La Mer, Takashimaya held an event to promote their new Hydrating Facial Mask. I attended the one-to-one session which allowed me to try (and successfully tempting me to purchase) the Hydrating Facial mask.

The essence is somewhat thick, and white in colour, almost like a gel-cream texture. The mask is a two-zoned masks so that it can fit perfectly on your face. The mask only needs to be left on for 8 minutes, however there is still lots of essence left, so you can use this on your neck or elsewhere. This is an intensive treatment mask and only needs to be used once a week.

Mask Benefits:

A sumptuous spa-like facial that brings skincare to a new level of luxury. The Hydrating Facial saturates the skin with signature Hydrating Ferments to reawaken the appearance of youth.

A cascade of moisture comforts and quenches the skin on contact, encouraging it to feel hydrated, nourished and conditioned as never before. Dryness and dehydration become a concern of the past as skin is enveloped in the healing energies of the sea.

Potent marine extracts help diminish the visible signs of aging.  Dark spots and discoloration begin to fade from view, revealing a clearer, more even complexion.

Ultra soft to the touch, this spun-lace cotton mask is embedded with tourmaline to quickly and generously hydrate the skin. As the spa journey is completed, a youthful tone, resilience, and vitality begin to emerge. Skin looks smoother, feels soft and supple to the touch.

Even dry complexions are renewed as skin is visibly transformed.

The effects are very obvious! There is very good hydrating properties and I could see my skin's fine lines disappeared. There was also very obvious brightening up of my dull skin tone. My skin soaked up all the moisture it could from the mask. Really lovely!

The down side would be the hefty price tag of the La Mer brand.

Price: S$460 for a box of 6 masks

Rate: 4.5/5   Excellent mask with an equally expensive price.

Review: Niu Er's BeautyEasy Rose Flower Facial Night Jelly EX

My Review:The BeautyEasy Rose Flower Facial Night Jelly Ex is one of Niu Er's best selling product from the BeautyEasy range of products, as can be seen from the picture. So I obviously had to try this product when browsing for items to try during a spree. I will review and compare the Rose Night Jelly with other similar products below.

I had expected the night jelly to be similar to Clinique's Moisture Surge or Laneige Water Sleeping Pack EX, or even Niu Er's Biobeauty Deep Sea Collagen gel, all of which function as a sleeping mask, for additional moisture. Usually when using the above three products, I will wake up with skin that is soft and hydrated, without any oily feeling.

However, with the Rose flower night jelly, when I use it as the last step of my skincare regime, I usually wake up with an oily T-zone. This makes me feel that the product might not be adding enough moisture to my skin. Another way of putting this would be that this product provides moisture by using emollients that are oil-based, rather than water based. I see an obvious oily shine on my face after using the rose night jelly. But this oily feeling does not happen with Clinique or Laneige or Biobeauty products mentioned above.

This Rose Night jelly has a light fragrance that is not overpowering. This is something that I like. The gel-like texture is thicker/more viscous that Clinique and Laneige. But similar to BioBeauty's deep sea collagen gel.

I do feel some moisturising effects immediately after I use it as face is more oily. It contains beneficial ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, which is a very good moisturising agent as it is able to hold a lot of moisture, and others such as rose extract and aloe vera extract, all of which provide moisture for the skin.Unlike the Lavender Detox-White Facial Night Jelly from the same BeautyEasy range of products, the rose night jelly does not provide brightening effects. (I will not do a separate review for the Lavender Night Jelly as it is essentially the same as the Rose Night Jelly, except that it contains brightening/whitening ingredients, however I do not think that it delivers brightening benefits and does not give as good a result as the Deep Sea Collagen Gel with Ascorbyl Glucoside.)

Overall, both the Rose Night Jelly and the Lavender Night Jelly are similar products. With the same oily residue that they both leave on my face, same texture and same effects. That said, they are a cheap alternative to Clinique's Moisture Surge extended thirst relief and Laneige Water Sleeping Pack EX. If you have to choose between BeautyEasy's Night jelly with those of BioBeauty, I would say choose the Biobeauty Deep Sea Collagen Gel.

I will not purchase the rose night jelly again, but I have already purchased a second tub of Biobeauty's Deep Sea Collagen Gel with Ascorbyl Glucoside, waiting to be used after I finish this product!=)

Rate: 3/5 It provides moisture but leaves my skin oily. I say choose Biobeauty instead.

Read other related posts on Night masks:

• Laneige Water Sleeping Pack EX
• Niu Er's Biobeauty Deep Sea Collagen gel

Read other Niu Er BioBeauty Reviews here:

• BioBeauty CoQ10 Golden Rejuvenating Pearl serum  
• BioBeauty Ellagic Acid Whitening Essence 
• BioBeauty Daily Pore Refining Microfoliant
• BioBeauty Advanced Hydrating Eye Freshening Gel HA 

Review: Laneige Water Sleeping Pack EX

This is the new Laneige Water Sleeping Pack. It was launched this week in Singapore and now available at all Laneige counters. I was fortunate to receive samples for this sleeping pack before the launch and I have tried the product.

Product Benefits:
Night time skin transmission (permeability) shows higher rate than the one in the day time.
Applying it right before sleep time, the best state for the skin transmission according to the skin circadian rhythm, maximizes the efficiency of overnight water supply.
The function of skin remarkably declines in the night time. Enriched with Beta-glucan, Water Sleeping Pack_EX deeply hydrates fatigue and dry skin while Ceramide SLN formula strengthens the skin barrier.
With containing the Snow Water, it helps to keep your skin look more crystal clear and vitalized.

- Antioxidant effect of Hunza Apricot Extracts helps brighten skin tone evenly by removing harmful oxygen and purifying skin.

- Recoverine from Chestnuts promotes turnovers of horny layers to remove dead cells away for vigorous water supply and sleek skin texture.
- An aromatic essence compound exclusively developed by AMOREPACIFIC, Sleepscent™(Patent application No. 10-2009-0043726), helps to relax your mind and body and derive for a good sleep. A good sleep effect allowing sufficient relaxation eventually reinforces skin restoration for healthier skin condition. Essential oils from Orange Flower, Rose, Ylang Ylang, Sandal Wood etc. are contained in the Sleepscent™.

- Light gel-type texture without stickiness but moisture leaves you a comfortable sleep.

My Review: What I love about this new sleeping pack is it is now alcohol-free, and can be used at the eye area. Fine lines around the eyes are the result of dehydration and if I apply more eye cream, there is a possibility of developing milia seeds, so this product is an excellent hydrating dream to end off my nightly skincare regime.

It is also formulated with a new sleepscent, which supposedly improves the quality of sleep and relaxes the mind. I have no comments regarding this as I usually have late nights.

I find that there is no sticky feeling after the cream is absorbed into my skin and my skin feels more hydrated, supple and smooth in the morning. However, I find its effects similar to Clinique's moisture surge extended thirst relief. But an advantage over Clinique is even if I apply a thick layer, there is no sticky feelimg, and Clinique is fragrance-free so a nice relaxing scent adds a bonus to the product

The price of the Laneige water sleeping pack is S$45 for 80ml and in Korea is about 25,000 won.

Rate:4/5. Good source of additional moisture.

Read other related posts on Night masks:

• Niu Er's BeautyEasy Rose Flower Facial Night Jelly EX
  
• Niu Er's Biobeauty Deep Sea Collagen gel