Review: Lancome UV Expert GN-Shield SPF 50/PA+++

The Lancome UV Expert GN-Shield SPF 50/PA+++ High Potency Active Protection sunscreen has its fair share of raves online. Some people compare it to L'oreal UV Perfect SPF50/PA+++, which isn't surprising as both are from the same parent company, L'oreal. It has quite a good rating on makeupalley so I thought it would be a good sunscreen to try.

I think Lancome UV Expert GN-Shield SPF 50/PA+++ has a lighter and more watery texture compared to L'oreal UV Perfect, which is more creamy in texture. Both have the same shiny finish, which I don't like. The Lancome UV Expert GN-Shield SPF 50/PA+++ leaves a white cast on my skin and I usually can't use the required 1.25ml because it seemed too shiny, oily and white. After I let the sunscreen settle in, the finish is slightly better.

For the price, around, S$80, I would have expected a better sunscreen. If I were to choose between Lancome UV Expert GN-Shield SPF 50/PA+++ and L'oreal UV Perfect SPF50/PA+++, I would choose L'oreal. It is much cheaper and I find it easier to layer more sunscreen on compared to Lancome.

Review: Lancome Blanc Expert Ultimate Whitening Hydrating Emulsion - Moist

Product Information (credit: lancome.com.sg):

Fill Skin With Deep Whitening Moisture Visible Transparency Perceived in Just 3 Days. This fresh, velvety and hydrating emulsion improves skin transparency and luminosity as it optimizes moisturization. Skin looks matified with a soft and smooth feeling, it recovers fairness and luminosity, leaving no unattractive shine. Brown spots appear diminished.

Review:
I got this in KL and tried it out. I have this in Moist, there is another version called Very Moist for dry skin. Moist suits all skin types. The prices in KL are about $10 cheaper than in Singapore.

In my opinion, to achieve good whitening results, you should use a good high concentration serum. And with moisturisers, one that hydrates well. So I usually don't buy skincare products in an entire range - from cleansers to serum to moisturiser and mask. I like to buy products that are specific to my concern, i.e. cleanser to clean well and not so much to clean and whiten since this just serves to increase the price.

Anyway, since it was cheaper and KL had this shopping vibe which put me in a spending mood. I like that it has a runny/watery consistency and yet moisturising enough. It doesn't absorb fast and leaves a bit of a sticky feel. It takes a while before the stickiness disappears.

I noticed brighter skin tone but in 2 weeks, no lightening of brown/dark red pimple scars. For 2 weeks of use, I definitely wasn't expecting any changes to my skin but good that my skin was brighter.

For the price, I wasn't impressed. I think it cost around S$100. I didn't like that I smelled alcohol in this. And the fact that alcohol is the third ingredient. I don't fancy having alcohol as long as it is among the first 5 ingredients in my moisturisers (and eye creams and sunscreen. Alcohol in toner is fine for me though since it is in contact with my skin for less than 5 sec), which tells me there is a lot of it and increases the chances of alcohol dehydrating my skin in the long run. For the price I am paying, I rather have better ingredients. Granted, the purpose of alcohol might be to create a more runny consistency to make an emulsion and to help the skin absorb the lotion, but I prefer not to have so much of it.

All in all, expensive moisturiser with good brightening properties. It would have been better if it didn't contain so much alcohol.

Review: L'oreal UV Perfect SPF50/PA+++

The L'oreal UV Perfect SPF50/PA+++ I am reviewing is the transparent skin (white) one. There are two other versions to even out skin tone (beige) and an anti-dullness (purple) one. I bought this as part of the l'oreal deals that heal charity deal. I think the original price is $21.90.

I heard raves of this sunscreen from a friend who only uses this sunscreen so I thought it was a good time to buy and try it out. One bottle, 30ml, lasted me about a month.

What I like about L'oreal UV Perfect SPF50/PA+++ is it contains l'oreal's patented Mexoryl™ SX + XL filters and Activa-Cell™, which are supposed to provide broad spectrum sun protection. 


There is no white cast and I am able to apply the required 1.25ml of sunscreen for proper protection - some sunscreens are too thick or oily or are too white to apply this amount. The sunscreen is in the form of a lotion-cream. Thicker than a lotion but not oily and rich like a cream. It absorbs fast and doesn't take much time applying and waiting for it to settle into the skin. I didn't experience any sensitivity with this sunscreen. 


What I don't like is L'oreal UV Perfect SPF50/PA+++ leaves an oily finish when I use the required amount. When I use lesser, I do see the dewy finish people rave about but that is just not sufficient protection. Especially since the weather is so crazily hot these days, unless I use some loose powder, I come home with a shiny face, which I dislike. 


I think L'oreal UV Perfect SPF50/PA+++ is a good sunscreen if you stay indoors most of the time and want sufficient sun protection. Since UV rays can pass through windows, it is best to slap on sunscreen even at work. I probably won't use this if I am staying outdoors as it makes me oil up. I used this on a trip to KL and didn't like the oiliness. 


All in all, average sunscreen for a cheap price especially when there is a sale. I am neutral about this product, meaning I don't mind re-purchasing if I have to other options of sunscreen to try out. But then again, the  market is full of sunscreen brands so I probably won't buy this again any time soon. Off to try Therapeutic Dermatologic Formula PA+++ UVA/UVB SPF50+ Sunscreen from their Age Defense System next, plus RoC Soleil Protexion SPF50 sunscreen in the waiting after that.

Review: Naruko Magnolia Brightening And Firming Cream

Product Information (credit naruko.us):

Product Detail:
Naruko Magnolia Brightening And Firming Cream is designed for mature skin and it is an all-round anti-aging skin cream. It helps your skin against the problem of oxidant and sallow, and you can regain the white and young skin. The formula contains a variety of hydrating ingredients, all of these provide water for skin and make your skin moisture and smooth. At the same time, it repair damaged skin, and your skin shows the feeling of smooth and supple.

Natural Ingredients:
Plantain Extract Complex, Magnolia Floral, Phytoferulin®, Hyaluronic Acid, Arbutin, etc.

Review:

I bought this after seeing Naruko Magnolia Brightening And Firming Cream on Nu Ren Wo Zui Da show. This brand from Taiwan and is the product of skincare guru Niu Er lao shi. I looked up the product and saw that it had a comprehensive list of beneficial ingredients. It seemed like an all-in-one anti-aging and moisturising cream. 

Naruko Magnolia Brightening And Firming Cream has a light cream texture. It doesn't absorb too easily and requires a bit of massaging, which I don't mind since Naruko Magnolia Brightening And Firming Cream is an anti-aging cream, it is also a good time to do some lifting facial massages. I am, however, not too fond of the smell. I know it is probably the magnolia smell but I thought it is a bit too strong. It was a bit uncomfortable to keep smelling the cream the first time but I got used to the smell after a few uses. 

After applying and massaging the Naruko Magnolia Brightening And Firming Cream in to my skin, it absorbs but still leaves my skin feeling oily. A clear sign this is too rich for my skin. I have combination skin type,  dehydrated with oily t-zone. So I concentrate on my cheek area before applying the rest to the t-zone. Even then, I still feel an oily film on my skin. Sometimes, after a few hours, before bed, I blot off the oil by pressing a piece of tissue into my skin, without rubbing any cream off. The website states that this is suitable for all skin types, but I don't think I will recommend this for oily skin types. Dry and normal skin types will suit this Naruko Magnolia Brightening And Firming Cream better. 

It is quite an expensive cream. I cannot remember the price but I think it was around $60+, definitely more expensive than the average cream from Niu Er's brands. I think it is too expensive to purchase again since it is a bit too oily for me. 

Review: Hanskin Intense Eye Cream

Product information (credit: description on product itself):

Hanskin's Intense Eye Cream contains Argireline. Phytocollagen which minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while protecting against environmental damage and eliminates superoxidein skin cell. 

Review:

I bought this from Korea, as part of a pack which consists of their best selling bb creams and another night cream. The description highlighted the ingredient Argireline, which is supposedly something like a topical botox. So I had expectations that this Hanskin Intense Eye Cream will help with my lines.

The texture is cream-like, absorbs relatively fast but feels like there is a film on my skin after that. I suspect there are silicones in this eye cream due to the texture. It is common to have silicones in anti-wrinkle products as they act as temporary fillers such that wrinkles look like they disappeared or reduced, but it is mainly just a cosmetic improvement due to the silicone filler. I cannot confirm this as I do not have the ingredients list and I cannot find it anywhere online. Another downside about not having the ingredients list is that there is no way to tell how much active ingredients are in this eye cream. So I cannot tell how much or little Argireline or phytocollagen this eye cream contains.

Needless to say, this eye cream did little for my lines. Hydration-wise, it is very average. I sometimes have to follow with another eye cream if my eye area is dryer.

All in all, Hanskin Intense Eye Cream is a below average. Good for those who needs just a basic eye cream or during the summer time. I probably would not use this Hanskin Intense Eye Cream during the winter. I will not re-purchase.

Review: La Roche-Posay Active C Eyes

Product information (credit: laroche-posay.us):

Recommended For

• Premature aging of the eye area
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Dark circles

Benefits

• Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles
• Reduces dark circles
• Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
• Silky, pleasant texture

Key Ingredients

• 5% Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) > Anti-oxidant
• Citrus amara > Minimizes dark circles
• Glycerin > Hydrating agent
• Thermal spring water > Soothing, anti-oxidant
• Canola oil > Emollient

Review:

I bought this eye cream as I wanted something with Vitamin C, which is a wonderful antioxidant and has good anti-aging properties. One thing about Vit C is that can be difficult to find a product that is stable and will not oxidise too quickly. La Roche-Posay Active C Eyes contains 5% L-ascorbic acid, which is a sufficient percentage to see results with use.

I like that this product is stable and I do not have to store it in the fridge. I have my La Roche-Posay Active C Eyes for a few months now and it is still a murky white colour when I squeeze my eye cream out for use. Sometimes, when I look into the cap, there will be some dark yellow residue of oxidised eye cream. When that happens, I will clean it with a cotton bud so as not to affect the rest of the product in the tube. The packaging is a metal tube which is great for preventing oxidation of the product and gives you control over the amount of eye cream you want to use.

When I first started using La Roche-Posay Active C Eyes, there would be a stinging sensation around my eye area and my skin would turn red. This does not last long, so I continued using. About 2 weeks later, the stinging and redness reduced in frequency and only occurred occasionally. After 4 weeks, I did not experience any more stinging or redness. I think my skin was getting used to the Vitamin C.

Effects-wise, I saw a slight improvement in my lines, but only after prolonged use. There was hardly any effect on my dark eye circles (I don't have bad dark eye circles but if I have an all-nighter, the La Roche-Posay Active C Eyes didn't help much).

I like that it absorbs really quickly and provides enough hydration for my eye area. The texture is gel-like and when applied onto the skin, turns a bit watery. So I did not experience any clogging or milia seeds with the use of La Roche-Posay Active C Eyes.

All in all, I like this eye cream mainly because of the L-ascorbic acid. I like to use products with clinically proven ingredients. I think the price is S$59.90, which is quite expensive. I would wait for a discount at Watsons/guardian or hospital pharmacies like CGH.

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: Avene Cleanance K Cream-gel

This Avene Cleanance K Cream-gel is an improved formula of the previous Cleanance K.

Product Information (credit: Eau Thermale Avene website):

Cleanance K is formulated as a daily treatment for oily skin with imperfections. Through its exfoliating, mattifying and hydrating properties, it will help eliminate pimples and blackheads.

For its 10th anniversary in 2009, with constant improvements in mind, the Cleanance K formula was optimized for even better effectiveness:

-More effective in removing imperfections and controlling oil production. Complexion becomes smoother and more even. 

-A new and innovative cream-gel texture: This light and comfortable texture offers a non shiny, non oily finish. Its lamellar structure made of liquid crystals plays a storage role for key ingredients which are released in a slow and continuous manner.

Hypoallergenic and non comedogenic.

Properties

1. Strengthened exfoliating action through the unique synergy of AHA and BHA*. The BHA concentration has been increased in this new formula in order to maximize its effectiveness. The advantage of this synergistic action is to work at several levels, resulting in a true peeling effect which unclogs pores.

2. Lasting mattifying action using mattifying powders combined with Cucurbita pepo and, in this new formula, Vitamin B6.

3. Optimal skin hydration: Botanical-based emulsifier for a slow release of Cleanance K key ingredients. Each component of the oil phase was specifically selected to bring additional hydration while guaranteeing a non oily and non shiny finish.

4. Long-lasting soothing and anti-irritating effect: Naturally active Avène Thermal Spring Water provides true soothing properties that can be felt immediately. The combination of alpha-bisabolol and zinc gluconate strengthens this anti-irritating effect and helps in long-lasting soothing.

My Review:

I used Avene Cleanance K Cream-gel as a starter to AHAs. There is a lot of information about the product on the website but they did not tell me the most important thing I want to know - the percentage of AHA/BHAs. I bought the product anyway since the sales assistant said this is gentler than Avene Diacneal, which I was hoping to use eventually, but was worried it might be too strong for my skin.

I eased slowly into this product, by which I mean once every 3 days for a week. I didn't feel much on my skin so I increased to alternate days. I stopped using the product if I felt any redness or dryness or discomfort. Only when my skin was back to normal then I continued using it. I did not experience any purging or peeling (I experienced both with Diacneal).

As mentioned, I do not like that fact that the % of AHAs and BHAs are not reported as it makes it difficult to compare across products. The reason why I say this is because I experience some stinging every time I use this Avene Cleanance K Cream-gel but I don't experience any stinging with Therapeutic Dermatologic Formula's AHA Revitalizing Gel 15, which is supposedly stronger at 15% Glycolic Acid. The sales assistant at the Avene counter was sure Cleanance K has less than 10% AHAs.

I read that there is higher Salicylic Acid (BHA) with this new formula, which is a good thing as BHAs are oil-soluble and can penetrate the pores to clean them out. I did have the old Cleanance K ingredients list to compare and indeed the Salicylic Acid was higher up on the list, but then again still no % indicated.

I feel that Avene Cleanance K Cream-gel did help with my skin. My skin was smoother but there was not that great an improvement. I think that Avene Diacneal gave me more results. So I would recommend Diacneal as a treatment if you have acne problems, and Cleanance K for milder skin imperfections like blackheads, or as a maintenance after stopping Diacneal or if Diacneal is too harsh for your skin.

I think it is also great that Avene Cleanance K Cream-gel contains some hydrating properties. The old Cleanace K formula made me oil up after a couple of hours due to dehydration of my skin. So I think the new formula is indeed an improved version.

All in all, it is a good product that gave some results but I probably would not repurchase as results were not significant. Avene Cleanance K Cream-gel does seem like it would be good for those with sensitive skin, but do ask for a sample before buying as it does sting a bit.

Ingredients of Avene Cleanance K Cream-gel (credit: Avene.co.uk):

AVENE THERMAL SPRING WATER (AVENE AQUA). GLYCOLIC ACID. CYCLOMETHICONE. WATER (AQUA). PPG-15 STEARYL ETHER. PROPYLENE GLYCOL. GLYCERIN. LACTIC ACID. POLYMETHYL METHACRYLATE. PROPYLENE GLYCOL CETETH-3 ACETATE. SODIUM HYDROXIDE. CETYL ALCOHOL ARACHIDYL ALCOHOL. POLYCRYLATE-13. GLYCERIN STEARATE. PEG-100 STEARATE. SALICYLIC ACID. ARACHIDYL GLUCOSIDE. BEHENYL ALCOHOL. BISABOLOL. CUCURBITA PEPO (PUMPKIN) SEED OIL (CUCURBITA PEPO). DIMETHICONE. DISODIUM EDTA. FRAGRANCE (PARFUM). POLYISOBUTENE. POLYSORBATE 20. PYRIDOXINE HCL. ZINC GLUCONA TE. 

Review: Vichy Essentielles Foaming Facial Cleanser

Vichy provided the Essentielles range of products for my review. I will be providing my honest opinions. 

I don't really buy counter brand cleansers as cleansers only remain on my skin for a minute or so and then gets washed off. This means any amount of whitening or antioxidant ingredients would not get absorbed into the skin. With all the dirt and oil, I don't want any ingredients going inwards, just outwards  is enough. So as long as cleansers clean well, don't leave my skin dry or tight, don't make my skin sensitive and are cost effective, they are good enough for me.

I think this Vichy Essentielles Foaming Facial cleanser met the above criteria. The cleanser foams easily and a little goes a long way. The foam is dense and fine, not big and fluffy like Fancl Washing Powder but it is good for a clean wash.

This cleanser contains Rose polyphenols. Rose is known for its soothing properties. My skin did not have any sensitive reactions to this cleanser.  I was happy to see Glycerin as the second ingredient, which explained why my skin was feeling comfortable after the wash and not tight or dry. There is also no SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) or Parabens.

All in all, this is a basic cleanser, which cleans well, does not leave skin feeling dry or tight, and did not cause any sensitivity reaction. It is affordable at $11.90 for 100ml. It is great for people looking for a basic cleanser without a heavy price tag. 

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.

Review: Dr. Ci:Labo UV & White Moisture Milk SPF 30 PA++

Product information:

UV rays promote blotches, freckles, fine wrinkles and a host of other skin troubles.  Protection Milk is a sun block that helps to both cut UV rays as well as care for damaged skin cells.  It contains the skin brightening substance alpha-arbutin (which works on the causes of blotches and freckles), as well as containing marine collagen and hyaluronan to protect and moisturize skin subjected to drying from UV rays.  It contains no perfumes, coloring, mineral oils or UV ray absorbing substances.
Protection Milk comes in two levels of protection: "SPF30 PA++" - for protecting you from the sun during your daily routine - and "SPF50 PA+++" - for people who like the outdoors but who definitely don't like getting burned.

I tried a sample of Dr. Ci:Labo UV & White Moisture Milk SPF 30 PA++ and the first time I tried it, I loved it so much I went out to get the full sized bottle from Isetan Wisma where Dr. Ci:Labo has a counter.

Why I love it so much?
I have been wanting to find a sunscreen that doesn't feel like a sunscreen on my face. I don't know if you experience this, but when i use sunblock at home, I usually can feel this layer of sunblock on my face, which I dislike. Normally, sunscreens make my skin a bit suffocated especially if I cannot set it with powder. (It's strange if I have to set my sunscreen with makeup at home, and at home days are no-makeup days to allow skin to breathe and take a break!)

So I have once thought of getting a day cream with UVA/UVB protection, but could never find any suitable ones. That is until I tried a sample of Dr. Ci:Labo UV & White Moisture Milk SPF 30 PA++. I have had this sample for a while but never got down to trying it until I was home and I used my Avene Cleanance K in the day, which is an AHA/BHA cream-gel, and I needed sun protection. I am conscious of applying sunscreen when I use AHA/BHAs and any retinoids, which explains my need for a sunscreen that is comfortable for home use.

Dr. Ci:Labo UV & White Moisture Milk SPF 30 PA++ feels like a moisturiser and in fact, when I use this Moisture Milk, I skip moisturiser. Dr. Ci:Labo UV & White Moisture Milk SPF 30 PA++ alone sufficiently moisturised my combination skin and I feel that people with normal or even slightly dryer skin can also use this sunscreen with additional moisturiser below.

The texture of this Dr. Ci:Labo UV & White Moisture Milk SPF 30 PA++ feels like a cream-gel. Quite light, spreads easily with no tugging (due to the silica) and also absorbs fast. Most importantly, no stuffy feeling or feeling that there is a layer of something on my skin that I need to wash off.

Lastly, it is also great that this UV moisture milk contains alpha arbutin, to help with whitening as well as collagen and hyaluron for moisture. All three are beneficial ingredients for the skin. It's also great that alcohol is not one of the first few ingredients like in La Roche-Posay Anthelios. So no need to worry about alcohol dehydrating my skin.

Cons:
If only this were a perfect product! But these are just slight dislikes I can overlook. The UVA protection is only PA++, which is considered insufficient for me. But since I only intend to use this at home, I am able to overlook this (Note: UVA rays can penetrate windows into homes). Another thing would be the silica content. I know of people who break out due to silica. So I am worried that this will be comedogenic in the long run. I will be monitoring.

Price of Dr. Ci:Labo UV & White Moisture Milk SPF 30 PA++ is S$51 for 30ml, which is considered quite expensive for a small sized product. The price of the SPF50 one has PA+++ (better protection) and is slightly more expensive at S$57 for 30ml. I should go back down to the counter to try out the SPF 50 one, I am hoping it is just as lovable as the SPF30. If the feeling on my skin is similar, I will definitely purchase for daily outdoor use.

(pic & product info credit: www.ci-labo.com.sg)

Review: Laneige Hydra Solution Essence

Product Benefits
A superbly hydrating essence that instantly replenishes skin's thirst for plump and moist skin.

This powerful essence also supports skin cell renewal in the night when skin cell regeneration is at its optimum, for a crystal clear complexion. 

(credit: laneige.com.sg)

I read good things about the Laneige Hydra Solution Essence, but I don't think it suits my combination skin very much. Perhaps I should have purchased the Water Bank essence instead (that one should be lighter but I'm not sure cos I haven't tried Water Bank yet).

Reason why I say it may be unsuitable for my combination skin is because after 4 hours, my skin became oily, especially around my t-zone. I use one pump each time. I passed this on to my mom instead as I was worried it might be too rich/oily and make me break out.

This Hydra Solution Essence did not activate my sensitive skin but there is a strong fragrance, which seems to be present in most Laneige products.

The texture of this essence is interesting. When you pump the Laneige Hydra Solution Essence out, it looks like it has this silicone-type of texture. Then when you spread it onto your skin, it becomes almost watery. After massaging it in, the essence turns from watery to oily. It's quite intriguing to feel these texture changes and this is what makes skincare interesting.

I suppose this Hydra Solution Essence would suit dry-normal skin types better. It made my combination skin oily but thankfully, no breakouts occurred. I thought the BA should have better advised me regarding the suitability of this product for my skin type, but it's good that my mom is able to use it.

Review: Etude House Hand Bouquet Rich Collagen Hand Mask

Okay, I totally bought this just for the fun of it, hahaha. I thought it looked interesting so I got myself a few pairs. The mask comes packed with a pair of hand masks and a pair of gloves, sealed separately. The packaging looks exactly like the one in the picture above, complete with the acu pressure massage points.

This mask contain 2% collagen and Arbutin, which helps in whitening. It also, however, contains mineral oil as one of the first few ingredients.

How to use: Wash and dry hands. Open the mask up - they are actually paper gloves soaked with mask solution, so wear them like gloves and then wear the plastic gloves that are sealed in the second packet.

The good thing about this hand mask is that they provide plastic gloves, which allowed me to continue surfing the internet. But more importantly, the plastic gloves make your hands feel warm inside, similar to a steamer inside (but not that hot, don't worry!) so this increases absorption of the mask solution, making this a more effective hand mask.

I liked that my hands felt soft and smooth even after a few hours. And surprisingly, I like this hand mask! I bought it for fun and I remember it wasn't cheap (price around S$4-5 each pair?). I might not repurchase cos it's mainly for the interesting experience but if you pass by Etude House, why not give this a try!

picture credit: gmarket

Review: Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner_EX

Product Benefits
A highly functional toner that regulates the skin's renewal rate and allows moisture and vital nutrients to penetrate deeply into the layers of the skin. Skin is clearer with a brighter and more even tone. Contains Himalayan Rhododendron, Alpine Epilobium, Himalaya Snow Water and willow bark extract to fight free radicals, sealing in moisture and gently exfoliate and soothe skin.
Formulated with Bio-Dusali™ for optimum skin renewal and hydration
(credit: Laneige.com.sg)

My review:
I like this Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner_EX as it combines both a toner (second step of Clinique three step system) and a lotion (the kind you find in Japanese skincare routines).

This Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner_EX acts as a toner because it has properties to gently exfoliate skin ( you can also enhance exfoliation by the using cotton pads) and hence regulate skin's renewal rate. According to the BA, the willow bark extract acts as a mild BHA to exfoliate the skin. I also liked that it didn't smell strongly of alcohol.

The Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner_EX also left my skin sufficiently hydrated. After using this Skin Refiner, I didn't immediately follow with a serum or moisturiser but just sat there testing whether my skin was hydrated enough not to feel tight or dry, and it didn't.

The Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner_EX has a texture of a very light serum. It is almost similar to Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturising Lotion, except that the Laneige one has a stronger fragrance.

The fragrance is the only thing I didn't like about this product. The smell is pleasant enough but I wished it wasn't that strong.

All in all, I like that this Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner_EX provides the exfoliating benefits of a toner and the hydrating effects of a lotion. It would have been better if the smell wasn't so strong.

Review: Renew Rose Hip Oil

This Renew Rose Hip Oil is 100% Certified Organic and the oil itself is orange-red in colour. Rosehip Oils contain high essential fatty acids, vitamin E and antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene. The Vitamin A also has anti-aging properties. Rosehip Oil helps heal scars, wrinkles and skin cell repair.  This review will not be a full review as I stopped using this product after a while. I now only use this on my lips and neck.

The reason why I stopped using this Renew Rose Hip Oil was because one morning I woke up with tiny bumps all over my face, which are tiny pimples with pus. My face wasn't very red but I could feel the distinctive pimples everywhere. I stopped using after that. (Saved my skin with Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque and a light moisturiser). I only use one drop of Renew Rose hip oil a night.

The feel of the oil on my skin is quite uncomfortable as it just sits in top if my skin and does not absorb well. I think this is the main reason of the clogs all over my face. The oil itself is quite thick. I find it absorbs slightly better when skin is wet, but even then my skin just felt oily the whole night.

I liked that rosehip oils are supposed to be regenerative, improve appearance of acne scars but this Renew one just didn't suit me. I used to use Trilogy and i had no problems with the Trilogy RHO. Trilogy RHO absorbs better and doesn't have that feel of oil sitting on your skin.

I now use one drop of Renew Rose Hip Oil on my lips at night to reduce lip wrinkles as my lips tend to crack and I don't particularly like to use lip balm. I also use this on my neck nightly to reduce neck wrinkles. These are the only two ways I use the Renew Rose Hip Oil to that I can use up the 25ml bottle. If you look at the picture, I have only used up to the point where the top of label is, so I have a long way to go.

I might give this Renew Rose Hip Oil a try again but for now, I will stick to a light moisturiser.

Review: Garnier Pure Active Spot-on Roll-on

I bought this Garnier Pure Active Spot-on Roll-on pimple treatment after Niu Er introduced this on the 20/12/2010 episode of Nu Ren Wo Zui Da (a Taiwanese beauty programme) and I went to Watsons to get one the next day. The selling point of this pimple roll-on gel is the 2% Salicylic Acid, which is a BHA that will help not only in drying up the pimple, but also to boost skin turnover via exfoliation so that the pimple scar fades faster. It has a high alcohol content and with the metal ball roll-on, it feels cool on touch. I think the metal ball design does not seem that hygienic but I wanted to try the 2% salicylic acid. There was a discount when I bought this so the price was $15.90.

The reason why I went out to buy this  Garnier Pure Active Spot-on Roll-on  was because I knew a pimple was coming on. I felt the sore pain on my cheek. When I bought this, my pimple had developed into an acne type pimple, the kind with pus. I have one or two of such acne during the time of the month.

I have to say, unfortunately, this  Garnier Pure Active Spot-on Roll-on  took a long time to dry out and heal my pimple. A week later, my pimple was still sitting there though healing. My other pimple creams with benzoyl peroxide definitely dries out pimples faster than this one. Usually, Proactiv Advanced Blemish Treatment takes me 2-3 days to completely dry out acne type pimples, and 1 day for smaller ones. It took more than a week with Garnier.

After the pimple dried out, I continued to roll on this pimple treatment as it is supposed to help scars fade faster. But till this day, slightly more than 2 months on, I can still clearly see the brown scar on my cheek.

This Garnier Pure Active Spot-on Roll-on was quite a disappointment for me. I bought it with high expectations as Niu Er recommended it on TV. Too bad it didn't work for me.

One thing about Garnier Pure Active Spot-on Roll-on that a lot of people are talking about is how the packaging does not seem very hygienic. As pimples are full of p-acnes bacteria, using the same metal roll-on ball on the pimples seems to introduce the bacteria into the product and contaminates the rest of the product. Unless there are sufficient anti-bacterial agents in the formulation, this seems like a possibility. I had small pimples around the areas I rolled on Garnier Pure Active Spot-on Roll-on. I did so because the box said it will clean out the pores, so I figured I'd use it where I have blackheads. Not the best idea.

All in all, I don't think I will repurchase this product. I am moving on to Avene Diacneal.

Review: Avene Gentle Purifying Scrub

I bought Avene Gentle Purifying Scrub to replace my previous scrub when it ran out. I had no particular preference at the moment and since I was at the Avene counter buying Cleanance K, I asked the SA about the Gentle Purifying scrub. She told me it is one of their best sellers (I wonder how true).

This Avene Gentle Purifying Scrub is definitely good for those with sensitive skin as it is so gentle, it didn't feel like I was exfoliating my skin. The scrub has a gel-base and small beads. The gel seems to act as a cushion to buffer the roughness of the beads so it makes it very gentle. There was no irritation or redness when I used this scrub.

I would prefer something less gentle but this is a good scrub to have if you are on AHA/BHA treatments as it is gentle enough not to irritate my skin when I use Cleanance K. Note that I usually stop applying AHA/BHA products one day before and after exfoliating with Avene Gentle Purifying Scrub.

If you are not using any chemical exfoliators (AHA/BHA), then this scrub might be a little too gentle. The tube is quite small (50ml) for the price of around S$29.90. I might not repurchase after I'm done.

Review: Avene Deep Pore Foaming Cleanser

I bought this Avene Deep Pore Foaming Cleanser when it came in a promotion pack together with the new formulation Cleanance K. I originally wanted to get the Avene foaming gel cleanser as it would suit my combination skin better but the SA assured me that this Deep Pore Foaming Cleanser would suit my skin as well. This cleanser does not suit my skin that well. It strips my skin of more moisture than a cleanser should and is more suitable for oily skin as stated on the packaging. My skin condition is now dehydrated and I can feel the tightness in my skin. I only use this cleanser at night as it would be too strong for day time use.

Despite it being too strong for my skin, I like this cleanser as it cleans well. If this is any indication of how well Avene cleansers work, it gave me the confidence to buy the Avene Moussant Soapless Foaming Gel to try out as well (a separate review later).

There is no yellowish stains on my cotton pad when I follow up with my toner, which tells me this cleanser performs well. However, my skin feels tight and dehydrated if I do not follow immediately with my skincare. And there is usually this squeaky clean feeling when I am rinsing off the foam.

This Avene Deep Pore Foaming Cleanser does not irritate my skin nor leave my skin red. I also like that there is no strong fragrance. If I am not wrong, there is no perfume added. So this is good for those who are sensitive to perfume/fragrances in skincare products.

The foam is not dense and thick like that of Fancl's Washing Powder or Hada Labo AHA/BHA Exfoliating Face Wash Foam, but is acceptable for me.

Conclusion
This Avene deep pore cleanser is suitable for oily and sensitive skin, those with combination skin like mine should choose the Avene Moussant Soapless Foaming Gel instead as it might be too drying. This cleanser has good cleansing power.

Tip: Avene products are cheaper in Malaysia compared to here in Singapore.

Review: La Roche-Posay Uvidea XL SPF50 PA+++ Tinted Cream

The Finish
The one I bought was the La Roche-Posay Uvidea XL SPF50 PA+++ Tinted Cream, there is another one that is white and untinted but I was looking for something that functions both as a sunscreen and have some properties to even out my skin tone. I didn't want to use another layer of foundation on my skin as I sometimes do not have time to wait 20 mins for the sunscreen to settle in before applying foundation. I like that the tint suits my NC20 skin and blended in really well. It does not have the foundation look but just helps make my skin look more even toned and slightly dewy/glow to the skin.

The Application
The application was a breeze. It does not feel oily like the Anthelios XL Fluide Extreme SPF50+. It has PPD 18 compared to Anthelios' PPD 38. But PPD of 18 is supposedly enough for office/indoor use, as long as you are not doing outdoor sports. The sunscreen when applied on is easy to blend into the skin and absorbs readily.

The Downside
This La Roche-Posay Uvidea XL SPF50 PA+++ Tinted Cream would be a winner if it remained the way it is when it is applied. Unfortunately, it makes my skin get oilier as the day gets by. By late afternoon, there would be a visible shine on my skin and when I try to touch up with powder, my skin would get oily again.

The ingredients
This sunscreen would be good for those with normal to dry (and sensitive) skin as it contains emollient ingredients like shea butter, which would moisturise skin. As my skin is combination-type, it might be the reason why my skin got oilier by the end of the day. I would normally skip moisturiser or apply a very light moisturiser as this is moisturising enough for my skin.

Conclusion
All in all, I would have loved this La Roche-Posay Uvidea XL SPF50 PA+++ Tinted Cream if it did not make my skin oily as application was a breeze and the finish was nice and made my skin glow. However, as it gave me a very visible shine (which makes me a little self-conscious), I probably will not re-purchase this. My mom, however, likes this as it is rich enough for her (she has dry skin type).

Review: Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2

Product Information (from clinique.com)

Step 2: Clarifying Lotion 

The difference-maker. Exfoliates to bring brighter, smoother skin to the surface. A gentle tingle tells you it's working. Apply Clarifying Lotion with a cotton ball after cleansing with Clinique Facial soap. Sweep gently over face and neck, avoiding eye area and lips. Available in five different strengths, one for every skin type

I have mentioned this Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2 quite a few times on this blog as I have been using this for the past one year. The bottle lasted me a long time, so it made the price tag quite worth while since you only need a little each time. I bought this at the duty free shop at around S$43, I'm not sure what the retail price is.

Clinique claims this to be an exfoliating lotion but I don't see which ingredient really exfoliates. But I do believe that it does clean the skin well because I always know when my cleanser underperformed when I see yellowish stains on my cotton pad after cleansing. I did, however, see salicylic acid in Lotions 3 and 4. Salicylic acid is a BHA and an effective exfoliant, but since those two are supposedly for oilier skin types, I don't think i will be trying them.

Clinique Clarifying Lotion vs Clarifying Moisture Lotion
This toner contains witch hazel, which is an astringent and some say witch hazel has anti-oxidant properties. This Clarifying Lotion also contains a high alcohol content. I find it amusing that sales assistants actually have this common excuse that the higher ups probably taught them to teach customers when they ask about the alcohol content - they claim it is medical-grade alcohol, which is okay for the skin. We all know that alcohol is drying but I bought this Clarifying Lotion instead of the Clarifying Moisture Lotion as the SAs uniformly claim it has better exfoliating properties than the Clarifying Moisture Lotion (I plan to get the Clinique Clarifying Moisture Lotion the next time I travel - it contains more natural ingredients and does not contain alcohol).

Effects
As mentioned, it cleans off any remaining dirt and oil off very well. I always know when that my skin is not clean when I see yellowish stain on the cotton pad and when I test with another new cotton pad and the Clarifying Lotion, it remains white. It works as it claims and that is a good thing, in my book.

It caused redness and stinging for the first one or two weeks but my skin was used to it after that and I didn't experience any sensitivity. It didn't dry out my skin, but I will be switching to the Clarifying Moisture Lotion next to avoid the high alcohol content as I find it a tad harsh.

This Clinique Clarifying Lotion contains menthol, which can be an irritant, but it didn't irritate my skin. I kind of liked the cooling after-feel.

When I read reviews of this toner online, I saw reviews at the two extreme ends. People either love it or hate it. I think it is a matter of choosing what suits your skin. I got samples from the counter and also asked the same questions at different counters, which is why I found their generic answer silly when we all know what alcohol does to the skin. I think the Clinique Clarifying Lotion can be a bit harsh if you have sensitive skin, try it out before buying. The SAs are generally okay with giving out samples if you say you have sensitive skin.