May 2013 ~ Pu Niao's<br> Beauty Junkie Reviews

The real reason you can't lose weight
Product Reviews versus Sponsored Reviews
Benefits of Face Steaming
Guest Blogging Guidelines
Innisfree Bija Anti-Trouble Spot Essence R Review

Friday, May 31, 2013

Rachel K Youth Spell Day Cream Review

By Unknown Friday, May 31, 2013 // 2 comments

WHAT IS IT: Rachel K Youth Spell Day Cream

THE PRODUCT(S):

Rachel K Youth Spell Day Cream: This balancing day cream is radically different from other skin care product as it is non-comedogenic, and balances the secretion of sebum in both dry and oily skin, ensuring that your pores never get clogged. Formulated with Matrixyl™ 3000 to prevent wrinkles and a unique mixture of Bamboo-silk and Rice-silk which work together to mattify skin by absorbing sebum, you’re left with instantly quenched, soft, elastic and gorgeously hydrated silky-smooth skin.

VERDICT: This day cream has a very light floral scent, which luckily doesn't border on nauseousness at all. And once applied onto the skin, I found that the scent of the day cream doesn't linger on at all. This might be important to some of us who might not either like scented facial products or is very allergic to facial products having a certain scent to it, whether it's artificial or natural. And so far for me, I like that this day cream seemed to give me a slight "perk-me-up" moment when I catch the scent.

The consistency is definitely of that of a cream, it's really creamy although it seemed to feel like I am trying to apply pre-chilled butter or cream cheese onto my skin. Yes, it's that slightly hard to the fingers and skin when you tried to apply it. And I am guessing it might probably be because of the fact that it's in a sample sachet form, hence it seemed to dry out pretty fast. I'm positively sure that the actual retail size version shouldn't face this issue at all.

And despite this day cream being on the rich and creamy side, I found that it doesn't feel oily nor greasy upon and after application. Just a small dot is enough to moisturize the skin on your face, and at the same time, the pores on my skin doesn't feel like it's clogged from application at all. And I can instantly see my skin looking a little more hydrated and moisturized upon application. Although a few hours later, my skin seemed to take on a sebum-y glow, making my skin look just a little oily in the mirror. And the affected parts are around my nose area only. Phew~

In short, the dry areas on my skin really benefitted from this day cream while at the same time, some oily parts of my skin didn't really seem to have any sort of difference or miracle observed at all despite the product claiming that it's suitable on both dry and oily skin. As for the wrinkle prevention part, I'm just glad I don't see any signs of wrinkles of any sort on my face at all. But in the end, I don't really see at least a good 95% of the benefit this day cream is supposed to do for my skin.

And mind you, I purposely redeemed an extra day cream sample sachet so I can use it for more than 2 weeks during day time, and needless to say, the effects and promises are just rather half half to me. Not too much of a big difference and yet it doesn't aggravate any existing skin condition of mine as well.

VERDICT: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Works well on the dry areas of skin on my face, but didn't really help much on the oily parts at all :/

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: I redeemed this Rachel K Youth Spell Day Cream sample last November 2012 from Rachel K Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Rachelkcosmetics. Unfortunately, sample redemption for this is over for now. But, I do have to warn you ladies (and guys) that most times, Rachel K doesn't advertise their sampling activity. If there's free samples to be grabbed, you have to constantly check back a.k.a stalk their Facebook page on a regular basis.

TBS Yuzu & Rice Body Milk Review

By Unknown Thursday, May 30, 2013 // No comments

WHAT IS IT: The Body Shop Yuzu Rice Body Milk

THE PRODUCT(S):

The Body Shop Yuzu & Rice Body Milk: This lightweight spray-on body moisturiser is inspired by Japanese bathing rituals. It has a fresh citrus scent. Light and easily absorbed and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth with a subtle citrus scent.

It's milky white with a watery consistency, which meant this body milk absorbs pretty fast into the skin after gentle massaging. Doesn't leave any oily nor sticky feeling and sensation immediately and hours after application.

VERDICT: The scent isn't as subtle as promised on the packaging, but the citrus scent isn't overpowering either. In short, the scent itself stays on until after a few hours later, and it actually gives me a "perk-me-up" moment whenever I catch the scent drifting towards my nose. The citrus scent is actually really sweet and nice, since I personally have tried yuzu before as a food/fruit item, and it was really too sour for my liking. Hence, I was a little surprised of the sweet citrus scent, instead of a sour-ish citrus scent. In short, it feels like the spa has brought itself into your home.

The consistency of the body milk is actually watery, hence it absorbs rather well and fast into the skin after gentle massaging. You don't need to literally rub it into the skin, just gentle massaging will do the trick here. And because it is a body milk, I was initially afraid it might leave this sticky feeling on my skin and hands. However, my fears were laid to rest as there wasn't any sticky nor annoying sensation at all, after immediately and hours after application onto my dry legs. And my skin actually looks instantly hydrated and moisturized as well.

My only grouse is that, because it is a body milk, this product that comes in a spray nozzle actually spills just a little wee bit. But that can be overlooked as this is the type of moisturizer that you can use if you are in a hurry and you don't really like body cream or body butter which tend to leave your hands feeling slightly greasy and a little sticky. Especially if you have showered and change into a fresh set of clothes immediately, you need not have to worry about staining your clothes because this body milk absorbs really fast upon contact with your skin.

And overall, I feel like I've gone a little further into this wonderful country called Japan, due to the wonderful scent it comes with. It's so traditional with the yuzu and rice milk elements, or rather ingredients in it, and this almost make you feel like you are a maiko (or geisha) in old Gion or Kyoto. The lushness and splendidness just cannot be compared with any other body milk I've tried.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Despite a little spill due to the fact that it's a body milk with a spray nozzle, I find that it absorbs really fast into the skin due to it's watery consistency. And the yuzu citrus scent evokes days of old to me.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: So far, I've never encountered a sample sachet or sample bottle for this Yuzu & Rice Body Milk in The Body Shop before. However, you can try asking the friendly staffs. If not, they should have a sample bottle opened up for testing on the spot :)

Pureté Duo Care Eye & Lip Cream Review

By Unknown Wednesday, May 29, 2013 // No comments

WHAT IS IT: Pureté Duo Care Eye & Lip Cream

THE PRODUCT(S):

Pureté Duo Care Eye & Lip Cream: Increases blood circulation and reduces puffiness, under-eye shadows and fine eye-area and lip lines effectively. Sorbitol and Grape Seed Oil help to make the fragile eye-area skin stronger and better protected. Precious Frankincense and Tocopheryl Acetate soothe and comfort the eye area by protecting skin against environmental damage.

I love how this product comes in a pump nozzle so the content of the bottle doesn't come into contact with the humid environment of Singapore, which means a product free from dust and so on.

It although looks cream-based, but is actually light and non-greasy and doesn't leave a greasy film or layer hours after application.

VERDICT: For the scent of this product, I dare say it's close to non-existent at all. And I didn't detect any scent of any type/sort prior and after application. And despite being a duo lip and eye cream, it doesn't remind me of scented lip balms at all. And I personally felt this is an important issue that must be taken into consideration, as sometimes, we apply lip balms and/or lip cream and more than often, we tend to forget that there's a layer of something on our lips especially. And without intending or meaning to, we just happily lick our lips due to thirst or just plain forgetfulness, only to be reminded that there is a layer of balm or cream when we taste something familiar.

And while at this issue, I love how this duo care cream despite being a cream-based product doesn't feel oily nor greasy at all. It gets absorbed especially quick on my lips and I personally tend to apply lip balms before bed, as I felt I tend to do less lip-licking activity while dead asleep on my bed (^_^) and partly because I felt that night time is a much better timing to apply lip products. As opposed to during day time, when we constantly use our mouth and lips for various activities, such as talking, drinking, sipping, for example. And more or less, that lip-licking activity comes into play along the way too.

The cream itself doesn't feel heavy nor greasy and oily at all, even hours after application. To compare with other lip balms I've used at night before bedtime, regular lip balms used tend to leave a layer of white stuff around my lips hours after application. But not for this Pureté Duo Care Eye & Lip Cream which I have dutifully been using for a few weeks already. I wake up in the morning, and still don't see a thin layer of whitish stuff on my lips at all.

And because it absorbs into the skin really well, I also do not feel as if I have a layer of something on my lips too. It just goes right into the skin of my lips as soon as I applied it on. And mind you, I only use it on my lips and none of my eyelids at all, as I tend to suffer from dry and cracked lips very easily, despite chugging water every now and then. And I did notice less drying and cracking, and also definitely less peeling on my lips too. This is definitely a product I would consider buying on a long-term and permanent basis.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Less peeling, which I am absolutely loving. As I tend to have a bad habit of peeling the flaking layers on my lips. So, I am definitely glad and happy I have no more bloody, torn, cracked and painful lips anymore :D

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: I got this sample tube in my August 2012 edition of GlamaBox. And as I am typically picky about products that goes onto my skin, I find that this product is actually a gem waiting to be discovered. And GlamaBox introduced it to their subscribers. If not, clueless me wouldn't even have known this product and brand exist at all.

Japanese Cherry Blossom Eau De Toilette: New Winner

By Unknown Monday, May 27, 2013 // No comments

The previous winner, Janice Lee did not respond back to me on Sunday before midnight, therefore a new winner for my Japanese Cherry Blossom Eau De Toilette blog contest/giveaway has been chosen instead.

Note that participants who joined the contest/giveaway, but never Like my facebook page will have their entries disqualified. But then, I'm just going to skip the participation list instead and go straight to the lucky winner instead :)

Dear Eleen Cheong, do kindly PM me your mailing address by Tuesday before midnight so I can arrange to mail out your prize :)

Samples Received/Redeemed: 20 May - 24 May 2013

By Unknown Saturday, May 25, 2013 // No comments

So yeah, another week with quite a decent amount of freebies and goodies in my mailbox. I almost forgotten all about today's post, since I was scrambling to get home a.s.a.p on a weekened early evening. But then, luckily I managed to board a somewhat empty looking bus, secure a seat and snooze all the way home :D

Bio-Essence Celebrity's Choice InchLoss Body Cream

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Last I heard from Umy (I think ^^; ), it was really powerful immediately upon usage. But anyway, go over to Bio-essence Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bioessence.sg, look for a tab called Free Sample. Click on it, follow the prompts and you'll receive it in your mailbox :D

Nivea Visage Pure Effect 3-in-1 Daily Deep Cleansing Exfoliating Wipes

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: For this one, it's a little tricky somehow. Nivea previously posted a status update on their page, looking for fans who wants to try some of their products. Naturally, I shared the link on my page as well. The catch is that, they are choosing who gets the item and what item exactly, in other words, you get what they mail you. Anyway, I got this Nivea Visage Pure Effect 3-in-1 Daily Deep Cleansing Exfoliating Wipes. Redemption for this trial is over :(

LoveMore Rhodiola Antioxidant and Brightening Mask Sheet

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Previously, LoveMore was having a giveaway promotion on their Facebook page where fans have to send them a PM or email to request for a free mask. Anyway, it's limited stocks. So, if you are late, that means no more. And the thing is, people love free facial masks, so it's quite nerve-wrecking to see a status update from them asking if anyone wants the mask and most of us mailed in, wondering if we still stand a chance or not LOL

I'll just presume this promotion is over as they took quite a while to mail it out. But you can still go over to LoveMore 爱恋膜法 Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LoveMore.sg, Like as a fan to be notified and updated of future promotions, contests and giveaways.

So, I got to hear about Reveur giving away trial packs to lucky fans who PM their details (I hope I got this part right) and I was one of the lucky ones who got picked to win their trial packs.

I received a Reveur Rich & Repair Shampoo (10ml @ 1 sachet) and a Reveur Rich & Repair Treatment (10ml @ 1 sachet). There's 3 key essences from the ocean and 14 kinds of ingredients in Reveur's hair products :O

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Despite the winners have been picked to receive a trial pack, you can still go over to Reveur Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ReveurSingapore, and Like their page as a fan to be notified of future and upcoming giveaways, contests and such :)

Kinohimitsu J'pan Body Slen Tea Blossom Drink Review

By Unknown Friday, May 24, 2013 // No comments

WHAT IS IT: Kinohimitsu Jpan Body Slen Tea Blossom Drink

THE PRODUCT(S):

Kinohimitsu J'pan Body Slen Tea Blossom Drink: Kinohimitsu J’pan BodySlen is a delicious BLOCK & BURN drink that satisfies picky taste buds while filling your thirst and hunger in one go. One bottle a day keeps you slender always! It effectively curbs appetite, reduces calorie intake, blocks fat storage, burns stored fats and increases your body’s metabolic rate.

The taste is a little close to flower tea, if it made any sense as it didn't turn you off from consuming it after trying your first bottle. And it doesn't leave a bad after-taste hours, hours after administration via orally. And my weight did went down a little after trying this for a week :D

VERDICT: First of all, the taste is a little close to sweetened concentrated flower tea and the good thing is that, it doesn't leave any weird after-taste despite hours after drinking it. Technically, I didn't burp up this blossom drink at all, therefore, I can safely say this is something you can look forward to trying if you are looking for slim drinks, but fear the taste might be a little too weird for you. The smell of it is almost non-existent, the only clue lies in the taste after consumption. So in other words, no weird and funky smell to put you off from the very first bottle!

As for the part that mentions about curbing appetite, well, I suppose it works differently for everyone. But ever since I started drinking this, I did managed to find myself eating on less junk food. Previously, it's like "heck-care-just-eat" attitude, but after trying this blossom drink, it's more like "I-only-eat-when-it's-really-meal-time". In short, I don't find myself snacking so often now, and this can help a little when it comes to body weight. As for calorie intake, I don't really see nor feel much of a difference though, unless I've been drinking this for years and can show some result(s) for it.

As for blocking fat storage and increasing my body's metabolic rate, similar to what I've mentioned above, I also don't really see nor felt any difference at all. And once again, it's probably possible to see some form of results if I were to continue drinking this on a long-term basis. So, it's definitely impossible to see nor felt any sort of noticeable difference one week into trying this for the first time. Although I can tell you is that, my weight definitely dropped by at least 1kg after consuming this straight for a full week. And to me, 1kg is definitely better than nothing. As it proves this product does work, but only if I continue taking it on a long-term basis.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: I am definitely surprised to see a small difference in my weight for once, so I am a believer for now.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: I got this after my letter was featured in Guardian's Feeling magazine in the October issue. So far, I've not seen anywhere to redeem a few tablets to try, but it actually does work for me though. So, I would gladly recommend this if you are trying to look for something to help slim down a little, although do note that effects and results vary on different individuals.

Japanese Cherry Blossom Eau De Toilette Winner

By Unknown Thursday, May 23, 2013 // No comments

Hello and welcome to the Winner list for my Japanese Cherry Blossom Eau De Toilette ( (50ml/1.69 US Fl Oz.)) Contest/Giveaway, which was previously held from 09 May to 22 May. For this, I won't be listing out the participants since it's going to take up too much trouble. Instead, I'll just post up the lucky winner who get to walk away with a retail-sized bottle. And once again, winner is to get back to me with their mailing address before the end of this week so I can facilitate the mailing process. If by Sunday at 23:59 and I do not hear from the winner, I'll choose another winner again.

Skin & Lab Dr. Vita Clinic K Plus Red-X Review

By Unknown Tuesday, May 21, 2013 // No comments

WHAT IS IT: Skin & Lab Dr. Vita Clinic K Plus Red-X

THE PRODUCT(S):

Skin & Lab Dr. Vita Clinic K Plus Red-X: The ingredient of Vitamin K removes redness by binding the capillaries and veins in the skin tissue. In addition, it delivers nutrients directly to the under eyes and make them radiant and bright, alleviating appearance of dark circles.

I use this under my eye where dark shadow, instead of eye bags shows up. And I have to say, whether it's used alone or mixed in with C+ Brightening, the effects are really visible after a night's sleep.

VERDICT: Well, the scent is actually a light citrusy scent, although the ingredient list boasts of vegetables such as broccoli for example. But anyway, it's not really those weirdly scented-ish products, so I'm personally not averse to using it at all. As for the product itself, it actually looks milky-white and creamy, and yet it doesn't feel heavy at all like typical cream-based skin products. And hence, my skin doesn't feel heavy nor clogged after application at all. In fact, it is so uber light it actually gets absorbed into my skin pretty fast and decently too without too much fuss nor hassle.

For me on a personal note, I tend to use skin products at night just before bed. As I tend to sweat a little during daytime, I don't want to sweat out this product out of my pores, which I feel will in turn negate the effects of this product. And since I apply it under my eye, I tend to spread it out a little so it goes towards my cheek and still, no heavy nor clogged sensation on my skin at all. And I tried using this product on it's own first, before combining it with the other C+ Brightening one.

And despite using K+ Red-X on it's own initially, I am glad to say that my dark circles doesn't look so dark in the morning. And this is just from the very first use/try, and I am definitely impressed without doubt. But when combined together with C+ Brightening, I find that it works even better. To the point where my eye area actually look pretty well-adjusted, like I've never ever spent a night awake late into the night. Of course, I know I kept late nights on a regular basis, so it's definite that dark circles will show. But from just one use, no visible dark circles at all.

And after using for 1 week, I am also impressed that there's no adverse reaction of any type on my skin, especially surrounding the eye area. And because it is very light, almost like an emulsion of sorts, I typically tend to use this first before applying my usual facial moisturizer. And still, it doesn't clash with the other skin products I am using simultaneously and neither did it give any bad skin reaction too. This is definitely one product I am planning on buying on a long-term basis.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Bye Bye, dark circles~ *waves enthusiastically*

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: I previously redeemed a set of Skin & Lab samples from Skin & Lab Singapore Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/SkinnlSGab last October 2012. I'm not sure if there's anymore left, however, the sample app is still around. So you might want to head over and fill out the sample request form and hopefully, you might be lucky :)

Head over to Skin & Lab Singapore Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/SkinnlSGab, Like their page as a fan. Next, look for an app that says FANS ONLY Promotion and click on it. Once the page loads, fill in your details and wait for it to arrive in your mailbox.

New Posting Schedule

By Unknown Monday, May 20, 2013 // No comments

My humble apologies for slacking off recently. I recently had a new job and was waiting to see how my work schedule would be like, so as to be able to better plan out my blogging schedule. And for now, this is as follows:

If I'm working AM Shift, my blog post would be up at night after I come back from work

If I'm working MID shift, my blog post would be up sometime in the morning before I go off to work

If I am working the MIDNIGHT shift, my blog post would be up either in the morning or just before I go off to work

Saturdays Samples Received/Redeemed post on Saturday still goes on, but depending on my work schedule

No posts on Sundays cos I do need to recharge to be able to bring better posts to my readers a.k.a You

So technically, blog posting schedule doesn't sound like it has changed much, with the exception of no more posts on Sundays at all. Only visible difference is that, depending on my work schedule a.k.a the shifts I get, therefore blog posts will either be in the morning before I go off to work or at night after I knocked off from work.

Samples Received/Redeemed: 13 May - 17 May 2013

By Unknown Saturday, May 18, 2013 // No comments

Actually, this has been a lucky week for me. Samples and freebies keep popping up in my mailbox and hence, I had to split them up for 2 weeks instead. And also partly because I am starting work on Monday, I'm afraid I might be too tired to run around Orchard to collect samples. So, I feel it's a good idea to pace out the samples I received in my mailbox instead.

And I think I am looking at irregular blog posts here too, since the shifts are split into 3. Namely:

Morning - Evening
Afternoon - Midnight
Night - Morning

So, this definitely is going to look like irregular timing for blog posts for sure. But I will still try to maintain a blog post once a day, but if I went kaput for a day, I'm probably too tired from work and trying to rest a little. So, no fears on that part. And before I go on and on, here's a look at the samples I've received in my mailbox for this week :D

I previously linked an OMY survey on my Facebook page and also participated in it. Can't remember what it asked exactly, but I am definitely glad to be picked to received a S$5 CapitaVoucher. I think this is basically the first time I received a voucher from OMY for completing their surveys, despite doing it for a few times already.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Survey is over. But if you have a membership with OMY.sg, you should receive their survey in your email once in a while. Whether you get to win the voucher or not, kinda depends on them. Since I recalled doing so many and only receiving the voucher once from them.

Anyway, I forgot what rank I was in, on What's in the Bag. But yeah, I still qualify for some noms though. Lucky~

As usual, the packaging was thorough and well-thought of to prevented the post office from manhandling the contents. And I'm collecting and saving up the blue-lid box my nom came in LOL I think it's chocolate flavor for this dark brown one though, cos I am kinda saving it till Monday morning as a quick breakfast snack :(

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: None. But as long as you are a fan of What's in the Bag? Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Whatisinmybag and is a frequent user, such as commenting, liking and sharing. And in return, you might stand a chance at being in the Top 10 spots for a chance to receive something wonderful in return for your hard work in the community :)

Previously, Dove Facebook page updated a new post on how to receive a Dove Hair Care gift pack (worth S$20.60) via an app on their page. Naturally, the image that accompanied the post looks really promising and without a doubt, I quickly shared it on my page to get people I know to quickly submit their own hair tips for a chance to receive their own Dove Hair Care gift pack.

Let's just say, I uploaded a photo of a Miley Cyrus hairstyle while she was still "transitioning" from Hannah Montanna to post-Hannah Montana days, essentially before she chopped off her long hair and looked all punk and pixie. Sucks that I have natural straight hair that looks too flat and limp on a regular basis LOL Yeah, those long wavy hair of hers actually looks pretty and girly at the same time, but yet it doesn't look too overly girly too. In short, you can be tough as nails and still rock that hairstyle. And anyway, I was a little surprised that I got to receive my own Dove Hair Care gift pack since it's not exactly a hair tutorial I submitted.

The Dove Hair Care gift pack I received are:

Dove Hair Therapy Intense Repair Shampoo
Dove Intense Repair Daily Treatment Conditioner with Micro Moisture Serum and Fiber Activities
Dove Hairbursh

Dang, I just simply love and adore hairbrush such as this. It's much more gentler on my poor angsty scalp, and hairbrush like this actually smooths out tangled hair without giving me further hair loss in return LOL

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Meh, redemption is already over and they are in the process of mailing out the gift pack as much as they possibly can. So, it's actually safe to presume that as long as you submitted something, you should be eligible to receive yours in the mailbox too. But for those who missed out, I still recommend being a fan of my facebook page to receive news and updates on latest samples and freebies and how and where you can get them.

So for this, I got to know about this and no doubt quickly shared the link to make sure everyone I know get their hands on their favorite sample to redeem too. Essentially, they have 4 different types of samples and you can choose which one you want. I chose the Body Intensive Moisture Serum SPF 25 PA+++ (30ml) cos I've already had the opportunity to receive the guys version of the Volcanic Mud Foam 2 to 3 times already :/

And I am not a big fan of roll-on deodorants as I find them mostly ineffective no matter how much I roll. Whereas spray version seems to work much more better. So yeah, body serum it is xD

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Go over to Nivea Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NIVEA.sg, Like their page as a fan. Next, look for an app called You're Gifted and follow the instructions and prompts to redeem your favorite Nivea samples, fill in your details and they'll mail it to your mailbox :D

Dove Lathering Oil Makeup Remover Review

By Unknown Friday, May 17, 2013 // No comments

WHAT IS IT: Dove Lathering Oil Makeup Remover

THE PRODUCT(S):

Dove Lathering Oil Makeup Remover: Lathering Oil Cleansing, where oil cleansing transforms into a fine lather and removes make-up with the same efficiency of an oil-based make-up remover.

The scent is a cross between oily and soapy, but it doesn't feel oily at all, despite being an oil-based make-up remover.

It's actually gentle on the skin, however, I need to use it twice to totally and thoroughly remove all traces of light make-up.

VERDICT: First of all, the scent is actually a cross between oily and soapy. Don't get me wrong, there's actually a hint of oil, but thankfully it's light. So, I personally don't find myself feeling nauseous after a goof thorough sniffing to be able to differentiate the scent. And yet at the same time, there's also a hint of something soapy in it. Which I guess is needed, because without the "soapy" part in it, it's going to practically make my skin feel oily despite being thoroughly cleansed of all traces of make-up.

What I love about this Dove Lathering Oil Makeup Remover is that, despite it claiming to be a oil make-up remover, it is not oily at all. In fact, there's no mention of oil in it's ingredient list anywhere. It's just pretty much the color looking like oil, hence we tend to think and feel that there's oil of some sort involved. And I tried pouring out a little onto my hands instead of pumping it through the nozzle and surprise, it feels more soapy than oily. Almost similar to a regular facial foam cleanser, essentially thick foamy suds.

This make-up remover actually spreads pretty decently after dispensing, and because the foam is pretty thick and generous, it makes spreading around the face easy too. I just find that it takes at least 2 washes to thoroughly removed thick or heavy make-up though, especially mascara on the lashes. So, it was basically gentle rubbing around my eye area for a good 1 minute or so before all traces of mascara went away without fuss.

And after washing this off my skin, I don't see nor feel my skin looking or even feeling oily at all. And it doesn't irritate my current skin condition, much less leaving a filmy invisible substance on my skin too. And sometimes, I get a little lazy and just dry use, and I found out that it works on dry and wet skin just as well too, without any discomfort on my skin, such as pulling and tugging at all. So technically, this is good for removing basic and/or light make-up. But if you someone who likes to go heavy on eye make-up, you might find yourself having to use this twice in a row to successfully remove all traces of make-up on your skin though.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Luckily, I'm not that into thick or heavy make-up, especially on the eye area. So, I find this easy and good enough to use just once.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Despite an existence of a Dove Facebook page for the market, there's no sampling activity going on for this Dove Lathering Oil Makeup Remover :(

Avalon Organics Scalp Normalizing Tea Tree Mint Therapy Shampoo Review

By Unknown Wednesday, May 15, 2013 // No comments

WHAT IT IT: Avalon Organics Scalp Normalizing Tea Tree Mint Therapy Shampoo

Avalon Organics Scalp Normalizing Shampoo

THE PRODUCT(S):

Avalon Organics Scalp Normalizing Tea Tree Mint Therapy Shampoo: Fortified with Invigorating Tea Tree, Mint, Eucalyptus and Chamomile for a Comfortably Balanced Scalp and Soft Hair. Helps relieve itch and flakiness from dry scalp and helps to clean and balances scalp and hair. Energizes for healthy circulation and restored comfort and maximizes softness, shine and manageability.

The Tea Tree Mint scent is strong and gives the feeling of revitalization, although I didn't feel any tingling nor cooling sensation on my scalp during and after use.

However, the shampoo suds pretty decently and is easy to wash off after shampoo too, so it's virtually hassle and fuss-free in terms of washing.

VERDICT: First of all, the scent. It's actually a mixture of tea tree, mint, eucalyptus and chamomile, so the resulting scent is actually heavy towards the mint and eucalyptus side with a hint of tea tree and chamomile. The shampoo itself is a clear gel-like texture and consistency is really smooth to apply. I first came across this shampoo at Watsons during the period when my scalp seems a little more angsty than usual, what with the amount of scalp flakiness all of a sudden. And I've more or less saw this brand at Watsons for a while, but never did considered long enough to buy it as there wasn't a smaller or travels-sized bottle for sale. The standard retail sized is actually a whopping 414ml, so if I were to use this at least 2-3 times a week, I can probably use this for close to 6 months.

But as far as the scent goes, the scent is only that alone. Upon using it for the first time, I noticed that there wasn't any tingling nor cooling sensation on my scalp during shampooing and after washing off the shampoo suds. I even took the opportunity to shampoo my hair first and leave the shampoo and suds sitting on my hair while I proceeded to cleanse and exfoliate my face first. And yes, after washing off the shampoo and suds, there still wasn't any tingling nor cooling sensation felt still.

However, it wasn't that bad either. As the shampoo itself suds pretty decently with a splash of water and despite no forementioned tingling or cooling sensation, the scent more than make up for it while I was happily massaging my scalp while working the shampoo into more suds than usual. The scent actually lets you relax both from the scalp to the mind, due to the calming scent itself. And it washes off decently as well too, no endless mumbling and moaning under the showerhead at all.

And after using it for the very first time, I felt my scalp feeling cleaner than most times and I am loving it. It doesn't irritate nor worsen my scalp current condition and I didn't even scratch at my scalp either when I was waiting for my hair to dry, or even after my hair is dry. Mind you, it's not the usual squeaky clean where my hair feels dry. It really cleanses my scalp without compromising the condition of my hair at all. There were definitely less itchiness and flakiness and my hair doesn't feel tangled too much despite not using any conditioner or treatment too.

And I dare say, after a few months of using this, the itchiness level and flakiness level of my scalp has improved for the better. And since I use my conditioner and treatment on a once-a-week basis, it doesn't effect the conditions and benefits of the shampoo itself too. Sometimes, when I use different shampoos and conditioner/treatment, I do noticed that I have to literally use a conditioner with the shampoo I am using at the moment, or it might end up leaving my hair a little too dry for my liking. But not this Avalon Organics Scalp Normalizing Tea Tree Mint Therapy Shampoo, it just simply did what it was supposed to, without having me to use a conditioner or treatment immediately with it.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Despite no tingling nor cooling sensation on my scalp, I find that it does cleanse my scalp perfectly.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Unable to redeem for now, and there's no Singapore-based Facebook page to redeem samples either.

Essential Nuance Airy Conditioner Review

By Unknown Tuesday, May 14, 2013 // No comments

WHAT IS IT: Essential Nuance Airy Conditioner

THE PRODUCT(S):

Essential Nuance Airy Conditioner: Gives damaged and limp hair an airy soft and bouncy finish.

New formula with Cuticle Care Technology! 4 times more Cuticle Protection for smoother, tangle-free hair to the last 15cm of your hair. Also contains Cuticle Smoothing Essence, High Purity Honey and Shea Butter to repair, moisturize and for lasting shine!

The scent is nice, conditioner is easy to rinse off without too much fuss and hassle. But I find that the treatment version is much better than this conditioner.

VERDICT: What I personally like best is the scent of this conditioner. Like most typical conditioners, they all seemed to smell pretty much the same even if you had to use different conditioners to find one that actually smoothes your hair without making it feel greasy and heavy. But for this, it has this wonderful fruity and floral scent to it. So, if you are like me and like sniffing your products each time before using it, go right ahead. It's not a crime to do so, if the scent is really appealing to you and makes you want to keep using (and sniffing) repeatedly.

Honestly, after trying different hair conditioners and hair treatments, I personally really prefer the treatment versions as I only need to use it at least once or twice a week and each use can last for a few days. Even if I need to wash my hair everyday to keep it clean from grime, sebum, oil and sweat, the effects of treatments doesn't go away that fast. But for this conditioner which can be used on a daily basis, I found that I literally had to really use it daily to ensure my hair is smooth and tangle-free.

And even if I used the treatment version at least twice a week, I somehow find that if I use it alongside with this conditioner, it seems to nullify the effects from the treatment. I'm not sure if it's just me, but seriously, having to use copious amount of conditioner on your hair for daily washing can really end up making my hair feels too light to the point where it feels limp and heavy. With long hair, it just simply goes from supposedly airy and bouncy to somewhat weighty.

I tend to use conditioner mostly towards the last 15cm to 20cm of my hair, since that part of my hair doesn't come into direct contact from my scalp which sebum and sweat collected, it can literally make combing/brushing out my hair a chore to do daily. And so far, I noticed that it's only the last 10cm or so of my hair that gets tangled up, despite using this conditioner on a daily basis. And yet I don't have this problem at all when I am using the treatment version. Funny and weird how treatment and conditioner seems to work differently on my hair, depending on how much or how often I have to use them.

And granted, no sight of airy and bouncy hair yet. But then, Singapore is a hot and humid country, so it's rather hard to expect that when we are sweating buckets from our scalp. Yes, our scalp sweats more easily than the rest of our body. I've just been out in the sun this early afternoon, and while I didn't sweat that much. I found my hair getting soaked with sweat already. So, there goes the airy and bouncy feeling I am supposed to feel in and on my hair.

VERDICT: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: I'm definitely sticking back to the treatment version as I don't need to use it daily, but the effects last longer than the conditioner.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: As this product has been "revamped" for a while now, I believe, so I doubt you can get to sample it at departmental stores. However, the plus point is that, you can open the cap and take a whiff out of the scent and decide. Sometimes, certain hair treatment/conditioner looks good to use, but the scent is either awful or just somewhat pleasant. This, I fell in love with it due to the scent and the fact that it isn't making my back nor hair feel greasy/oily after use.