Review: Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Protective Emulsion W SPF15

Product information (www.shiseido.com):
A brightening daytime moisturizer developed with a focus on environmental stressors such as UV rays, air pollution and dryness to provide comprehensive protection.
•Recommended for normal to oily skin.


Review:
I can't say I like this Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Protective Emulsion W SPF15, unfortunately. Water is the first ingredient and alcohol is the second. So the moment I applied this to my skin, it smelled strongly of alcohol. The tingly effect of alcohol (and alcohol itself) irritates my skin and makes my skin feel very uncomfortable. The moment I felt this, I layered on Avene's Skin Recovery Cream. 


Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Protective Emulsion W SPF15 has SPF 15 but definitely not enough sunblock protection. It is a must to apply another layer of sunscreen over the emulsion if you are going outdoors. Honestly, I think if you are getting the moisturiser from the Shiseido White Lucent series, buy the one without SPF so you can use it both day and night. There is no need to buy separate day and night creams.


The texture is runny and can spread easily. The emulsion absorbs reasonably well (mostly due to alcohol, which helps with absorption). So this is suitable for normal to oily skin. Those with dry skin or sensitive skin should definitely avoid this emulsion as the alcohol will end up further drying up your skin.


In terms of brightening ability, this emulsion alone cannot do much. For brightening effects, it is best to buy the Shiseido White Lucent Intensive Spot Targeting Serum instead (word of caution, this serum reeks of alcohol too).


I wouldn't recommend purchasing this product. Alcohol content is too high. Brightening effects are limited.


Have you tried this product? Share your thoughts =)

Review: Therapeutic Dermatologic Formula Age Defense System PA+++ UVA/UVB SPF50+ Sunscreen

credit: ocean health sg website

Product Information (from Ocean Health sg website):

TDF Age Defense System PA+++ UVA/UVB SPF50+ Sunscreen

A high performance sunscreen that blocks out the maximum amount of harmful UVA and UVB rays to protect the skin from sunburns and skin-darkening. The PA+++ rating means it is clinically proven to protect against age-inducing UVA rays and photo-damage. Ultra microfine zinc oxide provides the high SPF protection. Enriched with a powerful antioxidant, CoQ10,  this silky and lightweight cream protects the skin from within and improves the overall skin texture for a natural-looking and radiant complexion. Suitable for all skin types

Review:

I really like this sunscreen. I used up one tube and bought another 2 more as there as a 20% discount at the pharmacy. This Therapeutic Dermatologic Formula Age Defense System PA+++ UVA/UVB SPF50+ Sunscreen has high UVA and UVB protection, which is good and is also good to use after chemical peel as it does not irritate the skin, and it did not cause any irritation or sensitivity when I used this when I had patches of eczema on my face. 

A lot of sunscreens tend to leave a white cast, an oily sheen or make my face oil up after a few hours. I find that I have to powder my face to keep it oil-free. But I don't have any problems with TDF Age Defense System PA+++ UVA/UVB SPF50+ Sunscreen. It has a creamy texture and easy to blend into my skin. There is no white cast and no oily sheen. It also does not dry out my skin. I am sensitive to avobenzones/Parsol, so it is good that the TDF sunscreen does not contain this ingredient. 

Another good thing is that it absorbs really quick. I spread it out evenly and after a minute or so, the sunscreen is absorbed. Because I use the required 1ml on my face, fast absorption is important as I don't like the feeling of a sunscreen sitting on top of my skin and waiting before I can powder my face to reduce the oily sheen. With Therapeutic Dermatologic Formula Age Defense System PA+++ UVA/UVB SPF50+ Sunscreen, I don't have to wait long for it to absorb and I usually don't powder anymore. 

A down side is, the sunscreen rubs off into white rubbings (like eraser dust). Especially after half a day and I swipe my face or rub my eye I find white rubbings on my face so I have to clean it off and I think I am also removing my sun protection. I think this is due to the silicone, but I may be wrong. 

As a comparison, La Roche Posay Uvidea XL SPF50 sunscreens provide good protection but leave an oily sheen on my skin. L'oreal UV Perfect SPF 50, which I was using previously left a bit of white cast and some oiliness. Both takes a while for it to settle into my skin/absorb properly. 

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: 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.

Skincare-holic's Skincare Tip #8: My Skincare Routine-Day

Recently I made a lot of changes to my skincare routine. I started incorporating Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and retinoids as they are clinically proven to improve skin conditions like acne and wrinkles, resulting in clearer skin. I simplified my skincare routine as a result.

Day:
Cleanser: Avene Deep Pore Foaming Cleanser/ Vichy Essentielles Foaming Facial Cleanser/ La Mer The Cleansing Lotion
Toner: Clinique Clarifying Moisture Lotion 2/ La Mer The Tonic
Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Uvidea XL SPF50 PA+++ Tinted Cream

Comments: My day routine is much simpler now than before. I stopped using a moisturiser before my sunscreen as the LRP Uvidea Cream is moisturising enough and adding a moisturiser would make my skin oily. I also read some articles saying that sunscreen should be applied to bare skin to allow the chemical sunscreen to react with the skin in order for it to work well. Also, sunscreen - when tested in the lab - is used on bare skin, so to get maximum protection, sunscreen should be the first thing applied. (I got this information from dermtv.com, there are many useful videos there).

At times, especially when I have any pimple scars, I will use a whitening serum with Vit C before my sunscreen. Now, this is another source of debate. Some people say that antioxidants and whitening products should only be used at night as whitening ingredients make the skin more sensitive to the sun and might make the skin darker. Some also advocate that antioxidants be used at night as the sun deactivates the antioxidants.

Then there are those (for example Skinceuticals), who manufacture serums like Skinceuticals C E Ferulic, which consists of antioxidants like Vit C, E and Ferulic to enhance sunscreen protection.

In my opinion, as long as adequate sunscreen is applied, I think it is okay to use whitening products like Vit C. By adequate, I mean 1.25ml on the face alone. I often feel that when I try to apply this amount, the LRP Uvidea XL SPF50 PA+++ Tinted Cream becomes shiny and makes my skin look oily. So I am again on a lookout for a better sunscreen product.

I will follow with my Night routine in a separate post.

What is your day skincare routine like? =)

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: 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: Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense SPF50+/UVA 28

Product Information:

Specifically formulated as a facial moisturizer, Cetaphil^® UVA/UVB Defense SPF 50 provides broad spectrum UV protection with an optimum blend of five filters. The moisturizing formula hydrates the skin for 8 hours and absorbs quickly. Micronized Titanium Dioxide leaves no filmy white residue. Non-greasy, lightweight, fragrance-free, non-irritating, and non-comedogenic, this moisturizing product is ideal for daily facial use (source: cetaphil.com).

I have been seeing this sunscreen around at watsons and pharmacies and have been wanting to try it as the UV protection seemed quite high at SPF50+/UVA 28. I am assuming this UVA 28 is equivalent to PPD 28 as the Cetaphil brand is under Galderma Laboratories, which is a swiss pharmaceutical company. To read more about PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening and how it compares to the PA+++ Japanese ratings that we are used to, this is a good website) According to that website, a PA+++ rating translates to a PPD rating of 8+. Cetaphil is recommended by some dermatologists and seemed like a reliable brand so I got myself a tube.


Besides the high UV protection, the Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense has no white cast and is easily spreadable across my face. But it is really greasy, despite what the product info says. The sunscreen just sits on top of my skin and does not seem to absorb. It feels as though there is an oily film of sunscreen on my skin. I really didn't like it. I applied it in the morning and by afternoon I really wanted to wash it off. I was glad I was home if not I would have looked like an oil field. I tried it a few more times and it was still as bad. I decided not to use this Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense anymore and chucked it away. Perhaps I will use it on my body instead.

I looked at the Cetaphil.com website and it said this sunscreen contained oxybenzone, an ingredient I don't like in my sunscreen as it makes my skin burn and turn red and irritated. So this is even more reason to not stick with this sunscreen. At makeupalley.com, the reviews were just as bad and it is rated 2.7 out of 5.

This sunscreen is not that cheap. Price: $36.90  for 50ml. I will not purchase this again.

Interesting Reads: About High SPF Sunscreens and Under-application of Sunscreen

This website is really informative! It gives you all you need to know about sunscreens.

Below is an excerpt about the under-application of sunscreen:

http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/full-report/high-spf-and-other-misleading-claims/

SPF factors are based on two-to-five times more sunscreen than people actually use

In the real world, people get far less protection than the bottle advertises.

Sunscreen makers establish a product’s SPF by testing their products on volunteers. The testers coat the volunteers’ backs with 2 milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin (mg/cm2), the amount stipulated in FDA’s draft sunscreen regulations (FDA 2007), and then expose them to sunlight-simulating UV radiation until a burn appears. The time needed to burn, divided by the time it takes to burn the volunteers’ unprotected skin, is the SPF.

In real life, people apply one-half to one-fifth the amount of sunscreen used in the laboratory SPF tests (Autier 2003, Azurdia 2001, Reich 2009). Because of the physics of sunlight, that cuts the protection factor not by a factor of just 2 to 5, but by between the square root and the fifth root of the SPF. That’s a much steeper “exponential” cut in protection (Faurschou 2007, Schalka 2009, Kim 2010, Playtex 2007). For example, this means that someone who applies one-fourth as much sunscreen as in the SPF test gets just SPF 2.3 protection from an SPF 30 product. SPF 100 becomes just SPF 3.2.

How under-application of sunscreen cuts effective SPF
(based on applying one-fourth the recommended amounts)

SPF on label	Average SPF of users at (0.5 mg/cm2)	% UV transmission (amount reaching skin)
15	2	50%
30	2.3	43%
50	2.6	38%
100	3.2	31%

Source: EWG analysis of sunscreen efficacy based on a typical sunscreen application rate of one-fourth of 2 milligrams per square centimeter of skin (the SPF testing application amount).

A number of studies have confirmed people’s tendency to apply less sunscreen than is used in SPF testing. One study of 124 students found that the average application rate was one-fifth (0.39 mg/cm2) the testing amount (Autier 2003). Another study found that ten female volunteers applied a median thickness of sunscreen that was one-fourth (0.5 mg/cm2) the amount used in testing (Azurdia 2001). Even when researchers instructed volunteers on the proper amount to use, they applied too little: A study of 52 subjects found that uninstructed volunteers applied 34 percent of the recommended thickness, and even those who were instructed on how much to apply used only 43 percent of the recommended amount (Reich 2009).

The fact that people use less sunscreen than recommended is not an argument for using even higher SPF products to compensate. Higher SPF products produce small increases in real-world SPF. But even this small change allows sunbathers to stay in the sun longer – and absorb more overall radiation – before a sunburn sends them indoors. In the process, the substantially greater amounts of sunscreen chemicals in higher SPF products can penetrate the skin and lead to much higher internal exposures to potentially hazardous compounds. The user is left with a burn and a significantly higher “body burden” of sunscreen chemicals.

Review: La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Fluide Extreme SPF50+

La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Fluide Extreme SPF50+ is the latest sunscreen I have been trying out after using Kose Sekkisei Sun Protection SPF50 (which I really liked). This La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL is highly raved online due to the Mexoryl SX+XL which provides long lasting wide spectrum protection against both UVB and UVA rays. It also has a PPD rating of 38, which is very high. To read more about PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening and how it compares to the PA+++ Japanese ratings that we are used to, this is a good website) According to that website, a PA+++ rating translates to a PPD rating of 8+. This means the La Roche-Posay's Anthelios Xl PPD is considered very high and it is even recommended for people with sun allergy!

The La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Fluide Extreme SPF50+  has a milky and light tecture. It is very watery and spreads easily on my skin. I don't think that it absorbes fast despite the alcohol content which usually is there to speed up absorption. I think that the alcohol is very drying on my skin and if I use this sunblock near my eye area, I get biting sensations the whole day. This is a very clear indicator that its is too drying for my skin. I think that if I repurchase I should get the cream version instead. The Fluide Extreme is stated to be suitable for people with sensitive skin and is suitable for those with normal to combination skin. My advice would be to avoid the eye area and use a separate sunblock for the eye area.

The Fluide Extreme leaves a white cast on my skin after applying it and after letting it settle in, the whiteness is reduced but still very visible. I usually use foundation after it to reduce the whiteness and the shine. I noticed that although it is drying, it also makes my skin greasy. I wonder if because it makes my skin dry and causes my face to produce oil or is it the product formulation. I have to use powder and I also have an oily feeling throughout the day.

I think that this sunscreen is not my HG as many others have claimed. I really like the high PPD rating as it would help prevent wrinkles and pigmentation but I don't like the alcohol and the greasy after feel. At price $41.90, it is considered slightly expensive for a drugstore brand, but it is good to purchase this when they are having promotion.

** Update 5/3/2011: I used the tinted version and got a skin reaction. The Anthelios XL Tinted fluid SPF50+ made my skin flushed with a burning warm feel. I had red skin the whole day. It was worse nearer the eye area. Tinted version is definitely too dark for NC20 skin colour. It will suit tanned skin tone better.

Review: Kose Sekkisei Sun Protector SPF50 PA+++

Product Information (source: kose website):

Protect skin with sun-shielding and whitening effect. A whitening sunscreen lotion with oriental mineral veil that gently envelopes the skin and protects skin from harmful UV rays.

Completely blocks UV-A that degrades skin's resilience and UV-B that causes sunburn. Maintains skin’s health with supple moisture, translucency and fairness with SPF50+/PA+++.

Oriental herb extract moisturises and conditions skin, thus prevents skin unevenness caused by dryness of skin inflicted by UV damage.

For everyday use; gentle on skin and blends quickly enabling your skin to feel comfortable and smooth.

Long wearing and resistant to perspiration and water. Lasting sunscreen effect and can be used as makeup base effect that enable foundation to last.

For face/body (Special cleansing unnecessary)

Review: 

Upon application, the Kose Sekkisei Sun Protector made my skin look really oily. It takes a while before the Sunscreen settles into my skin but the shine still remains on my skin. So I usually use a light two-way foundation cake with this.

I did not experience any white cast on my face when I use this sunblock, which is a good thing. I am also able to add more layers of Kose Sekkisei Sun Protector without looking like a ghost.


I wonder why in the product description on the Kose website it states no special cleansing necessary. I still use oil cleanser to cleanse my face regardless of what the website states.


The Kose Sekkisei Sun Protector is similar to Kose Sekkisei Lotion in two ways. Both have the signature Sekkisei Lotion scent that I like. Unfortunately, both also contain alcohol. While I am okay with alcohol in my toner/lotion, I don't like it when my sunscreen contains alcohol as I usually apply sunscreen at my undereye area as well, which tends to feel dry whenever I use sunscreens with alcohol. My undereye area is quite sensitive to alcohol and I won't recommend anyone with sensitive skin to use this product, or at least try it out before purchasing.

There is no significant whitening  effects from sunscreen per se. But I believe that sunblock is the best form of prevention for your skin as it helps prevent formation of pigmentation, loss of collagen and ageing, wrinkled skin. Although most articles say that SPF 30 is sufficient, I always purchase SPF50 just to feel more protected.

Price wise, it is comparable to most counter brands at around $46 for 50ml. I think I might purchase this again but I will be trying La Roche Posay sunscreen next, so I will be comparing the two for sure!

Review: Avene Very High Protection Emulsion SPF50+

This was my favourite sunblock before I bought my Fancl Sunguard 30. The reason why I started using Avene was because I bought the Neutrogena Dry Touch SPF50 Sunblock and it burnt my skin. When applied on, my skin started turning red and felt like I was getting a sunburn. The same happened with Lancester whitening sunblock and Olay Total Effects SPF15. So I thought that maybe I have some sensitivity to an ingredient in those sunblocks and so I bought the Avene as it is meant for sensitive skin. As I have combination skin, the lady recommended the Emulsion to me as it is lighter in texture.

The sunblock is slightly runny lotion consistency and is able to spread easily. Some people claim that it is matte when applied, for me there is always a shine. It leaves a white cast but only slightly.

It was my favourite sunblock and I bought many tubes of this especially when it came in a promo pack with the Avene Thermal Spring Water Spray in small size.  The reason why I wanted to change sunblock was because I noticed a bit of flaking (white rubbings similar to eraser rubbings) when I apply my sunblock after my skincare routine. This happens especially when I have more skincare products. This also happens if I happen to be a bit ambitious to get more sunblock on my skin for better protection, it will start to rub off in white bits. This doesn't happen with Fancl, which is why I have been repurchasing Fancl all these while.

So what I tend to do is simplify my skincare routine when I use the Avene Very High Protection Emulsion. And I usually try to use a lesser amount and try to spread it out as fast as I can. I don't know if they changed the formulation or it was my skincare products as this never happened until after many tubes and I started to have problems with flaking.

I still am using Avene along with Fancl Sunguard 30. I use Avene more for my arms and neck while I use Fancl for my face.

Review: Fancl Sunguard Crystal Pearl SPF30 PA+++ (Limited Edition)

 

The Fancl Sunguard Crystal Pearl SPF30 PA+++ (Limited Edition) was part of the Perfect Whitening Kit, which Fancl sells once/twice a year. I like the Fancl Sunguard 30 (blue bottle), the original version that is usually sold in shops as it is rather light and non-sticky and non-greasy. I tend to not like my sunblocks in cream formulations as I think it is too thick for our humid weather. So I have a tendency to buy Japanese brand sunblocks as they are usually more watery.

This Crystal Pearl edition of the Sunguard has shimmer in it. This is supposed to help make your skin glow, however I find that the shimmers are visible if someone stands close to me so I find that I must follow up with some foundation. The shimmers make my face look oily if I do not follow with foundation.

On top of that, the sunblock leaves a whitish cast, so I usually become one shade fairer (or rather whiter), so I have to put on foundation so that I would not have a whitish face.

The texture of the Crystal Pearl Edition in seems thicker than the original Sunguard and a bit harder to spread across my face. I also find that putting on make up afterwards is also not as 'smooth' and harder to blend.

All in all, I prefer the original Fancl Sunguard 30 compared to the Crystal Pearl. The Perfect Whitening Kit is worth the price if you want to try the White Essence and White Clear Mask or even the Sunguard as it is cheaper compared to buying them separately.

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
• Fancl White Clear Mask
  

Skincare-holic's 2009 Favourites List

2009 is coming to an end and I thought it would be good to round up the year with my all-time favourites list. I love trying out new skincare products so unless I particularly love the product, I will not purchase it again. So the products in this list are products that I have purchased twice or more, I think work nicely for my skin, and is worth it's price

1. Fancl Washing Powder

This washing powder creates dense foam that effectively cleanses my skin without stripping it of its moisture. I do not experience any tight feeling after cleansing with the Fancl Washing Powder. When use with the Facial Washing Puff, my skin is left clean with lesser blaskheads. No other cleanser can achieve these results for my skin.

2. Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil

Double cleansing is an important component of my skincare regime. I have used countless bottles of Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil as it removes all of my makeup thoroughly and effortlessly, even my waterproof mascara. It emulsifies easily and does not leave any oily residue behind. Although I am currently using Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil, the Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil is still my preferred choice.

3. Fancl Sunguard 30

The Fancl Sunguard has SPF30 PA+++ so it blocks out both UVA and UVB rays sufficiently. I like its light texture and how it is easily blended into my skin.

4. Clinique Moisture Surge Extra Extended Thirst Relief

I always buy the Clinique Moisture Surge Extra Extended Thirst Relief whenever I have the opportunity to travel. I buy it at the Changi Airport DFS because it comes in the set above which includes the Moisture Surge Eye Gel and I find that it is quite a good deal. The Clinique Moisture Surge Extra is what I always use whenever my skin feels dry and what I always bring along onto the plane where the air is very dry. It combats change in humidity and any weather changes effectively. It always keeps my skin moisturised for a long period of time. I use this in thick layers without any fear of milia seeds and I use this around my eye area as well.

5. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion

I like this moisturiser as it is a basic moisturiser that serves the purpose of keeping my skin moisturised. It does not leave any sticky feeling and absorbs readily. I use this whenever I am suffering from any breakouts as I feel this does not further aggravate my skin condition and does its job of moisturising well.

6. Kose Sekkisei Lotion

I have used 3 bottles of Kose Sekkisei Lotion. I like it as a lotion mask and how moisturising it is for my skin. Although the whitening benefits of the Lotion are not that obvious, the Sekkisei Herbal Esthetic Mask makes up for it. These two Sekkisei products are good but the rest of the Sekkisei line are disappointing.


7. Trilogy Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil has wonderful anti-oxidants and skin regenerative properties. I turn to Trilogy's Rosehip Oil for additional moisture boost when my skin feels dry. Trilogy Rose Hip Oil absorbs easily without clogging my pores and does not leave any oily residue on my skin. I am including this because I was quite crazy over Rosehip Oil products at the beginning of 2009, but the Trilogy range of products (cleansers, toner, moisturisers, masks) disappointed me so I might try other products after this.



To end off my post, below are products I will always avoid.

- Biobeauty Advanced Hydrating Eye Freshening Gel HA玻尿酸清新眼凝露
This caused my eye area a severe allergic reaction which made my skin red, inflamed, swollen and hurt as though I got burnt.

- Henry Tianus.
I bought this after reading raves on Cozycot and because it was a natural product. But the Overnight Skin Perfector caused me acne problems that I have not experienced in years.

Review: Biore UV Bright Face Milk

Superior lightweight UV block for face, Radiant Effect. Provides SPF50+/ PA+++ UV protection. It has an ultra light and non-sticky texture. Also an ideal makeup base, it contains ultra fine light correction powder to cover pores, correct skin dullness and brighten skin tone to give you that radiant look!

 The Biore UV Bright Face Milk is true to its description on the Kao website. It is really light and non-sticky. The Biore UV Bright Face Milk comes out as a pink liquid, so it evens out my skin tone nicely and really does give a radiant look with a pinkish tinge on the skin. It is not overly pinkish so it is natural, which I think is good. I usually follow this with a foundation but I prefer the Shu Uemura UV Under Base Fluid SPF20/PA++ as a proper make up base (also pink in colour). The high SPF is another bonus for me!

Because there is a need to shake the bottle before use, these kinds of sunblocks are usually oil on water suspensions, so the Biore UV Bright Face Milk is a little oily and shiny on my face, but after a few minutes while the sunblock settles onto my skin, it becomes matte, and it stays matte even after a few hours, so quite good oil control.

The Biore UV Bright Face Milk contains alcohol, so those who are aversive towards alcohol in their skincare might want to take note. For me, I think that it is the alcohol that helps the Biore UV Bright Face Milk settle into my skin as it evaporates to turn from oily to matte. And in general I am okay with products with alcohol, so this doesn't bother me much.

Another thing I like is that the light texture of the Biore UV Bright Face Milk is even lighter than the Fancl Sunguard 30 and also much cheaper at about $11.20, and it can be cheaper depending on whether there is a discount at Watsons.

Some people have complained of this sunblock being drying. I don't use this sunblock on a daily basis, I use this when I go out for a short while and will not be wearing any make up. So I don't have much comments on it being drying. However, I do find that wearing this sunblock for too many hours (without makeup on top) will make my face feel uncomfortable, and will make me feel like wanting to wash my face quickly.


Overall, I like this sunblock for it's light liquid texture, and being able to add some radiance to my skin when I do not intend to wear make up. It is also cheap and affordable for those who put on layers of sunblock for maximum protection and assurance

Rate: 4/5

Review: Niu Er Beauty DIY Job's Tear & Licorice Maximum UV Liquid

 BeautyDIY Job's Tear & Licorice Maximum UV Liquid SPF50/PA+++

Review: The harmful effects of the sun are numerous and instead of trying to reverse the effects of the sun when the harm is done, the best thing we can do is engage in preventive measures. Sunblock is a good investment as part of any good skincare regime.

Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Octyl Methocinnamate - This sunblock has both physical and chemical sunblocks components which is a good thing. Other beneficial ingredients include Vitamin C derivatives for whitening, Job's Tear and Licorice Extracts to soothe skin and even out skintone, Cucumber Extract for soothing skin and Vitamin E for extra anti-oxidant protection

Texture: Although it's called UV Liquid, the Job's Tear sunblock is more like a cream-liquid consistency, I would say more towards a cream. Comparing this to Avene Very High Protection Emulsion, it is almost the same consistency. It is definitely thicker than most Japanese sunblocks, like Fancl, Shiseido Anessa and even Biore.

Effects: This Job's Tear sunblock is not easy to spread evenly across the face and looks uneven. It takes a long time to blend and it sometimes 'balls' up after interacting with other skincare products so it is advisable to use lesser skincare steps when using this product. However, being someone who enjoys my skincare steps, I would prefer suncreens that can work without these balling up effects. It makes my face look like it is shedding skin.


One good thing is that it does not make my face feel heavy and sticky, which sometimes occurs with cream sunblocks.

That said, I will not repurchase this sunblock as it does not perform well against other more liquid suncreens like my Fancl Sunguard SPF30/PA+++. However, it now makes a good arm sunblock for me whenever I go out into the sun, and as a stay-at-home sunblock, where no one else can see the unevenness of the application.

Price: $18.90, spree price. I think the Biore UV Bright Face Milk SPF50+/PA+++ (pink bottle) is better and cheaper. Blends better and no balling, but contains alcohol.

Rate: 2.5/5   There are other better sunblocks out there.