Samples Received/Redeemed: 22 July - 26 July 2013

I thought this week would see me going out on a weekday (a.k.a off day on a weekday) to collect my remaining July samples. But then, fate has other plans in store for me. In other words, my off day is on a Sunday, and Sunday is the day where throngs of humans come out of their house to the very places I want to collect my samples from. Unless I show up just as the malls are opening, if not, I might have to give it a skip. But then, I am not someone who wants to skip samples. On the contrary, since it's free, might as well go get them xD

For this past week's samples, there's only 1 with a little showcase on cheap cosmetics as well. Oh well, I'm a cheapskate sometimes LOL

Personally, when it comes to buying stuffs, I have a simple motto. Buy it because you have to, not because you want to or you feel like it. If you buy things because you have to, there's a reason you must or have to use it all the time. But if you buy things that you want to or because you feel like it, chances are that you probably use it only once in a while, slowly being forgotten. And by the time you remember it's existence, it's probably too old, damaged, or expired to the point where it cannot be used anymore.

I've been eyeing this Long Barrette from Daiso for a while now, but I kinda need a valid reason to justify this purchase. And since my workplace felt that using a regular rubber/hair band to tie up one's hair is almost the equivalent of being too casual, buy this I must xD It didn't help that I need a long one, instead of a short one, as my hair despite looking so little, is actually thick. Small ones will only snap in half, making me waste my precious S$2 on it, so I might as well wait until Daiso have the longer one instead.

This is actually a Eyebrow Powder I got from Daiso for S$2 as well, but since it looks more like eyeshadow, I used it as a eyeshadow palette instead. Even the description at the back stated and explained in broken English on how this eyebrow powder can help well-defined, natural-looking eyebrows. Let's just say I really did use it as eyeshadow, and it stayed pretty well without any smudging at all :D

I used the darker color near my eyelids, while the lighter color goes on the lid around the eye socket area.

This is apparently a "Seductive Cheek & Hi-light" powder, which I bought from Daiso for S$2 as well. The darker shade that is pink is meant to be used as a blusher, while the white/beige-ish color is to be applied on the T-zone and under-eye area. Let's just say it does it's work pretty decently, and the only re-application I need to do throughout the day is actually to powder my slightly oily-looking nose xD

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: No sample redemption for Daiso. But then, their stuffs are sold at S$2 a piece, so it's pretty cheap to buy and try. If it doesn't work for you, you can still pass it to the next person. Provided you use your own blush brush and eyeshadow/eyebrow applicator instead of the one found in the product itself.

I got to know about this sampling activity on Facebook, and as usual, got everyone I know to go grab it while stocks are still available. It's kinda crappy that they have to fold the pamphlet in half cos it doesn't fit into the envelope nicely :( The sample I received is the Bio-Essence Face Lifting Cream Royal Jelly + ATP and it's worth 4g. Should last at least up to a week, if I am not wrong :D

The pamphlet actually informs you what their products does for your skin, the benefit it gives when you use it and the differences you can see and experience before and after using it.

And over here, you can see that the order their products should be used in, so as to achieve the perfect result it promises.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Go over to Bio-essence Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bioessence.sg, Like their page as a fan first in order to access their app(s). Next, look for the link that says Free Sample, click on it and follow the prompts and fill in your details. You will receive your sample in the mail :D

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Brand's Innershine Ruby Collagen Essence Review

WHAT IS IT: Brand's Innershine Ruby Collagen Essence

THE PRODUCT(S):

Brand's Innershine Ruby Collagen Essence: BRAND’S® InnerShine® RubyCollagen Essence is a range of premium oral beauty supplements that supply skin with RubySignature™, a proprietary formula comprised of a precious blend of micro-collagen and Astaxanthin. RubySignature™ guards against collagen loss while supporting microcirculation, enhancing the effective delivery of collagen and other essential nutrients to skin cells for healthy and younger-looking skin.

The collagen essence itself looks reddish-orange with this ruby-like intensity, but the taste is actually sweet. And for those of us who wants to consume collagen-related products but is afraid it will taste weird, rest assured that this Brand's Innershine Ruby Collagen Essence will suit your picky tastebud.

VERDICT: Granted that I am not new to consuming or applying collagen products, since there's already so much out in the market already. But what capture my attention to this Brand's Innershine Ruby Collagen Essence are simply the words "ruby" and the commercial that goes with it. It just seems to give me a bigger sense of hope in terms of my skin condition. And lately, my skin has been alternating between ghostly pale to slightly human (a.k.a alive) looking skintone. And there I was thinking, it rather suits the sombre mood for this new Hong Kong horror flick, Tales From The Dark Part 1.

Anyways, sometimes collagen products work for me and sometimes, it doesn't. So, it's literally an adventure to find something that works on a long-term and permanent basis for my skin. And some time in April this year (2013), I joined the Brand's trial activity and has pleased to be one of the lucky ones who get to try this before it gets released nationwide for sale. And to be honest, I was already expecting the product itself to have this brownish-looking color to it, since most of Brand's consumable products tend to come in really dark or brownish color tones. Although honestly, I wasn't expecting something that look so bright and intense, in terms of color.

I like that this Brand's Innershine Ruby Collagen Essence isn't overly sweet at all, so folks who do not like sweet stuffs can actually dilute the sweetness a little with ice cubes and/or ice water before consuming. But luckily for me, I have a sweet tooth although I try to tone down the sweet stuffs I consume since too much sugar isn't good for the body in the end. What I love is that, despite hours after consuming, it leaves a pleasant after-sweetness taste in your mouth that doesn't make you want to feel nauseous at all. And it is really difficult to find products that doesn't travel upstream when you suddenly burp without warning. This Brand's Innershine Ruby Collagen Essence actually taste a little like pomegranate, with a little sour alongside with the sweet tartness it has. And because it is rather thick, some of you might want to dilute it a little with water, which I think it perfectly fine. Just don't over-dilute it xD

Although I can assure you that nobody can achieve perfect looking skin with just 10 bottles of collagen drinks in the first place. You need to take stuffs like this on a long-term and permanent basis to not just only see the effects, but also to maintain the overall effect that it has already achieved on your skin too. As I personally have oily and combination skin (oily T-zone but dry cheeks), I found that after 5 bottles, I can already start to see the little subtle differences. Less breakouts than usual, and on top of that, my skin doesn't look like too corpse-like a.k.a pale and ghostly. There is slightly more color to my face, as compared to how I usually look. And I am definitely planning on getting this on a regular basis to maintain my skin complexion, tone and color :D

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Less breakout, healthier and livelier looking skin that doesn't make me look like an extra spooky character in horror films, I am already feeling thankful!!

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Sampling activity is over. But do check out Brand's InnerShine Singapore Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/BrandsInnerShineSG, Like their page as a fan to be updated and notified of any upcoming contests, giveaways, promotions and trials.

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Essential Purely Smooth Conditioner Review

WHAT IS IT: Essential Purely Smooth Conditioner

THE PRODUCT(S):

Essential Purely Smooth Conditioner: Gives damaged and rough hair a light and smooth 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!

This conditioner spreads evenly without clumping up and it really leaves my hair soft and silky smooth. And what's more, the scent is just as heavenly as the shampoo version.

VERDICT: The scent is just as heavenly and wonderful as the shampoo as well, almost with this wonderful natural scent of honey. The conditioner itself is white and creamy, and yet it spreads evenly and easily without any fuss at all. I especially love how it spreads well all over my hair evenly and still, it didn't leave any conditioner clumps still. And when it's time to wash it off, I found that I don't need to over-rinse for the conditioner to be washed off thoroughly. It's just so easy-peasy to use and wash off.

And immediately after washing off the conditioner, I found my hair feeling soft, smooth and manageable as well. And in fact, I was already starting to dread unwanted tangled up hair, which fortunately didn't surface. And hours after my hair has dried, I find that my hair is still smooth, silky and soft and much more manageable to boot too. Unlike the Sunsilk one that I've tried and tested, which only maintains the smoothness before my hair is all dried. This Essential one is much more better as my hair really stays soft and smooth when wet and when dry too.

And the good thing is that, the scent isn't overpowering at all, as I occasionally caught a whiff of the scent and it is a really wonderful scent. It doesn't made my any nauseous at all, and I personally have pet peeves about hair products that smells wonderful in the beginning, only to have the scent goes from wonderful to downright obnoxious as it is too heavy. But not with this one though, the scent is light and when your mind is starting to feel clouded, just a whiff of the shampoo/conditioner scent is enough to make me want to push on.

And that is what a shampoo and/or conditioner should do right it has been used, letting you catch a whiff of the scent without making you feel like you need to run to the nearest restroom to hurl up your lunch or dinner. And sadly, there are lots of shampoos and conditioners out in the market that either does that, or doesn't even have any sort of scent after it has been washed off thoroughly. So I am really happy that Essential does that, but on a gentler note. And on a final note, my hair and scalp doesn't feel as if there's leftover residue from the shampoo and conditioner after usage at all!!

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: If only I was born with such natural smooth, silky and manageable hair, whether I color it or not.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: I previously redeemed this at http://www.ksgpromo.com/es/samples/, but unfortunately, redemption is over :(

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Essential Purely Smooth Shampoo Review

WHAT IS IT: Essential Purely Smooth Shampoo

THE PRODUCT(S):

Essential Purely Smooth Shampoo: Gives damaged and rough hair a light and smooth 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 with Inner Repair Essence that penetrates damaged, hollow hair core and High Purity Honey and Shea Butter, hair is repaired and moisturized, regaining softness.

Ths scent is wonderful, suds decently and yet easy to wash off and best of all, my hair feels smooth and silky without making me feel as if my scalp is still dirty :D

VERDICT: I love the scent of this shampoo, it's almost heavenly before, during and after usage. The scent doesn't make me nauseous despite repeated sniffing at it, and I believe this is an important factor that nobody mentions when using shampoo. I mean, would you want to use a shampoo that makes you go "Urgh!" whenever you catch a whiff of it off your hair? No, right? Me too! I love shampoo that specially doesn't seem to over-promise but at the same time, does a magnificent job of what it is supposed to do.

I like how the shampoo suds up so easily and it was a wonderful shampoo session on my hair, almost to the point of feeling like those ladies doing hair commercial. But I'll just skip the semi-naked or naked part here then LOL Anyways, I love how after I am done cleansing my hair, the shampoo washes off easily and without any fuss at all. I do not need to rinse my hair a dozen times just to ensure the shampoo is totally off and out of my hair and scalp. Just between 1 - 3 rinses, depending on how long or short your hair is, and that is more than enough.

And since I've previously tried and tested another brand of shampoo really recently, so I am a little hesitant on whether it can deliver as it promised. And I am glad and happy that it did. My hair felt smooth already just from washing the shampoo off, and when it was partially dry, it still felt smooth to the touch (without the combing part involved yet). And when it was totally dry, I can actually and easily comb through my hair without encountering lots of hairfall, just a few strands that's all. And on top of that, no tangles when combing through my hair.

And not forgetting the scalp part! Despite the shampoo being used primarily to keep hair smooth, soft, silky and manageable, I personally find that my scalp doesn't feel as if there's leftover product or residue of any sort on it at all. It's as if it actually cleanses while maintaining the smoothness, softness and silkiness of my hair. As I have dandruff issue on an on/off moment, I am glad this shampoo didn't aggravate my dandruff problem at all. In fact, I think I can probably interchange this shampoo with my regular dandruff-based shampoo on a once-every-two-day regime instead.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Quotes Zohan: "Smooth and silky~"

SAMPLE REDEMPTION: I previously redeemed this at http://www.ksgpromo.com/es/samples/, but unfortunately, redemption is over :(

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Samples Received/Redeemed: 15 July - 19 July 2013

Finally, samples to be literally redeemed and collected after so long~ And for a moment, I thought it's going to be a "dry spell" when it comes to over-the-counter samples. Phew~ I think I am going to start going emo if there's no over-the-counter samples to be redeemed since I recalled redeeming loads of them during last year's Christmas and this year's Lunar New Year timeframe.

And talking about samples, I would like to state that personally from me, it doesn't matter if it's just a sample sachet only. As long as the staff handing me the sample is polite and informative on the usage instructions, I am already convinced it's a good brand. As detailed explanation is the equivalent of showing that you care about your customers wants and needs with regards to their skin woes. If you are just going to shove the samples into my hands without so much as a simple generic explanation on how I am supposed to go about using it, it's almost as good as telling me "Our products are so bad there's no point in explaining to you how on earth you are supposed to use it".

But then, enough talk from me and let's head on to the samples I've received and redeemed for the past week :D

I got to know about this sample via the Sponsored Ad section on Facebook. Initially, Biotherm was having a sampling activity on one of it's Aquasource products. Until one fine day, I realized it's actually for the Aquasource Deep Serum sample. Obviously, they were launching 2 sampling activities at once.

Each person is entitled to a 3 day trial kit of Biotherm's latest Aquasource Deep Serum sample. Each sample sachet is 1ml worth, and in short, it's a booster to use on your skin before your usual facial moisturizer and/or serum.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Go over to http://www.biothermsg.com/sampledeepserum/ and fill in your details. Next, you will receive a SMS on your phone. All you need to do is to show the SMS at any Biotherm outlet in Singapore to redeem your complimentary 3-day sample :D

belief previously had another sampling activity, but then, I realized too late that the last day of collection was end of June. So, I had to be content with receiving this latest samples from them instead. I redeemed:

• First Aid Deep pore Care Mask x 1 @ 5g
• Problem Solution Green Essence x 1 @ 3ml

And as usual, the belief staffs I've encountered are always sweet and friendly, even when I showed up to redeem their samples instead of buying them. belief is definitely that one store I would want to purchase from on a long-term basis :D

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Go over to http://on.fb.me/15UkkUw and flash this photo either on your iPhone/Android Phone/Smart Phone or bring a print-out to any belief outlet in Singapore to redeem your samples :D

I got to know about this sample via my friends on Facebook, but remembering my last encounter with the rude Counter Manager at their Tangs Orchard outlet, I was really hesistant about this sample. Until I realized Sulwhasoo had another counter over at Tangs Vivo instead. So, I decided to try my luck at Tangs Vivo and the staff there was actually polite and informative on how to use their sample. The sample I redeemed is a Renodigm EX Dual Care Cream worth probably 1ml.

Let's just say the staffs at Tangs Orchard should take a pointer from their colleagues at Tangs Vivo. People want your samples because they have never tried your products before. And the best way to make a casual sample collector into a diehard fan is to be nice, informative and provide a listening ear to your consumers. Not stuff the sample into your customer's hands and walk back to whatever they were doing in the first place. If I ever want to buy Sulwahsoo products, I know I am getting them from the Tangs Vivo outlet instead of the Tangs Orchard outlet :)

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Go over to Sulwhasoo Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Sulwhasoo.sg, Like their page as a fan first. Next, look for an app called Skin Goddess and click on it. Next, take part in the quiz by clicking on Get Started Now!

Just follow the prompts after clicking on the Get Started Now! link. As long as you are the first 2000, you will receive a confirmation email in which you need to print out and bring along to redeem your sample.

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Tsaio Acne Cleansing Foam Review

WHAT IS IT: Tsaio Acne Cleansing Foam

THE PRODUCT(S):

Tsaio Acne Cleansing Foam: Tsaio Acne Cleansing Foam contains Aloe Extract that helps induce a healthy glow inside out. Blended with Peppermint Oil and Triclosan, it helps soothe and reduce the appearance of blemish, leaving skin feeling refreshed.

The cleansing foam smells like soap, however, a little is enough to sud up so much that it is more than enough to clean the face :D

VERDICT: Ironically, this cleansing foam smells very much like soap, and yet, it doesn't feel as if you are using body soap literally to wash your face. Most facial cleansers always tend to typically smell heavenly to the point that it can mislead you into thinking that it can do a great job. But you will only know whether it is good enough as it looks to be after you have tried it for a week straight. And I've personally tried cleansing foams that seems to do the trick but only to end up not working anymore. So, I am glad that this cleansing foam doesn't seem to "pretend" to be what it isn't at all.

I personally like how a little, roughly 0.5cm in length when squeezed out of the tube, is more than enough to cleanse the face. Most facial cleansers I've tried tend to promise that a little goes a long way, but I ended up having to use even more just to be able to cleanse my face thoroughly without feeling as if I am just using a soapy and watery solution for facial cleansing. But for this cleansing foam, it's literally as I've said. Just a small amount squeezed out is really more than enough to cleanse. And this means that despite being a thin and slim tube of cleansing foam, it can actually last longer than it looks.

The cleansing foam when it has sud up, is really creamy to use on the skin. And I am glad and happy that my skin doesn't feel overly tight or taut after washing the foam off my face. And hours after usage, I do not see my face looking shiny due to excess sebum flow. And at the same time, I do not feel nor see any bad or after-effects from using this cleansing foam either. Personally, I've been using this cleansing foam on a on and off period, but right after a pimple or acne woe episode, I found that this helps the pimple goes away pretty decently without looking like the pimple itself looking lost on my face.

Although I've heard of the brand Tsaio years ago, but I've only recently tried this brand recently and I can safely say that this is a brand I've fallen in love with, little by little. And what's more, this cleansing foam actually contains Aloe Extract, Peppermint Oil and Triclosan. In short, it soothes (Aloe Extract) and cleanses (Peppermint Oil) at the same time, instead of having to soothe and cleanse separately. Let's face it, we all have our lazy days every once-in-a-while and facial cleansers such as this can actually shorten our cleansing regime time without sacrificing the steps at all.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Oh Tsaio, how I love thee~

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: So far, there's no redemption for Tsaio products online or at places that sells Tsaio products. But then, if there are on discount, I would actually recommend getting items you want to try out. At least if it doesn't work, you can still console yourself that it's bought on a discounted price than paying for the full price :D

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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[Venus Beauty] Returning Starfish Cream Review

WHAT IS IT: Returning Starfish Cream

THE PRODUCT(S):

Returning Starfish Cream: 70% of starfish extract which has a superior regeneration ability is highly concentrated in the cream formula to reinforce skin elasticity and moisturize skin effectively. It cares for all complicated skin problems. It reinforces skin regeneration while giving rich moisture and protecting skin from outside harmful factors. Hyaluronic acid and allantoin ingredient give rich moisturize to skin and form a moisture-retaining film on skin while elm root skin extract and peptide, patented for skin elasticity, firm skin. Organic argan oil and camellia oil form a moisture-retaining form to keep skin smooth and healthy.

The scent is actually pleasant and upon application, I can immediately see how moisturized my skin looks. Doesn't leave any greasy nor oily feeling and sensation hours after application :D

VERDICT: First of all, the scent of this Returning Starfish Cream from Mizon has a "sweet" scent to it, but it's more like cosmetic sweet than seafood sweet, I guess. The scent doesn't put you off and I personally love it when products smell so nice, it actually makes you want to keep using it at any opportunity. Which in turn meant that you are taking the trouble to take care of your skin on a regular basis. The texture and consistency is actually creamy without feeling heavy nor oily at all. It literally spreads decently and right immediately upon application, you can instantly see that your skin looks much more hydrated and moisturized.

Initially, I was a little wary and hesitant about this Returning Starfish Cream as I've encountered creams and gels that seems so wonderful and good to use at first glance. But only to disappoint after application, in other words, it looks heavy but feels lightweight only to end up making my face looked like I hadn't washed it for a week. But surprisingly with this cream, my skin doesn't looked oily nor greasy at all hours after application. And I had to say, this cream is really a unexpected and worthy find, which somehow makes it even more precious as it is a sample sachet only.

And also mentioned similarly in other posts previously, there tend to be products that seem to work in the beginning only to end up not giving any results after a few months of usage. With that in mind, I used this once every 2 nights on a regular basis for as long as the sample sachet allows me to. And I actually came close to using this almost on a 2 week basis and I am proud and happy to say that my skin didn't any bad side-effects from using this cream at all.

Instead, I found my skin looking and feeling slightly better than before. Sure, it's not that those fancy commercials when I claimed my skin felt bouncy and stuffs like that, but I am glad to say my skin just don't look so "thirsty" as compared to at least half a year ago. It definitely felt so much more better than I expected it to be. And I am seriously glad and happy that something so unassuming can do so much wonders for me.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: I didn't give much thought to this product at first, but after using this, I am definitely impressed with what it did for my skin :D

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Papulex Oil Free Cream Review

WHAT IS IT: Papulex Oil Free Cream

THE PRODUCT(S):

Papulex Oil Free Cream: Papulex Oil Free Cream helps reduce skin blemishes and control oil. Contains moisturisers to hydrate and protect the skin plus special mattifying agents to help skin stay shine-free. Apply to affected areas after cleansing morning and night.

The oil free cream surprisingly smells nothing like the cleansing gel, and it is definitely true to what it claimed, that it is oil free.

VERDICT: The scent of this oil free cream is surprisingly nothing like it's counterpart, the cleansing gel. It actually smells pretty normal, like what regular facial cream is supposed to. In short, it is nothing surprising and yet it neither borders on nauseousness too. In fact, if you were to present me the oil free cream without letting me know what brand it is, I'd probably thought it's a regular facial cream.

The texture and consistency of the cream is actually slightly creamy without feeling and looking heavy, unlike what I've expected. I find that it spreads on my skin pretty decently, without too much fuss and it gets absorbed into my skin rather well too. I've tried other supposedly "oil free" cream and most times, it looks and feels light but ended up not being exactly "oil-free" as it claimed to be. For example, my skin looking so oily and shiny, which made me wonder how exactly "oil-free" does it claimed to be.

And despite hours after application of this "oil-free" cream, I am glad to say that my skin doesn't look oily nor shiny due to excess sebum. Which I personally find rather surprising, as most oil-free cream only ended up making my skin looked like I've taken a dip in a pool of sebum. Yep, that is exactly how I felt when I encountered facial cream that promises but never quite delivers.

And as mentioned in the previous cleansing gel review, this oil-free cream didn't exactly help to clear off old and new blemish. In fact, I still see my blemish scars as visibly as though I only got the blemish hours ago. And in short, I think this brand is probably using photoshop of some sort, since most of their testimonial photos tend to look slightly hazy and blurry while the claims are reputedly "I am blemish free thanks to Papulex".

VERDICT: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Slightly hazy and blurry testimonial photos that claims a product works isn't really going to convince me it's a good product. Consumers aren't stupid to believe something without trying something out. This is definitely not a product that helps clear off blemishes, as far as my skin can attest to. In short, I have more doubts regarding this product than ever after seeing their "testimonial photos".

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Papulex Moussant Soap Free Cleansing Gel Review

WHAT IS IT: Papulex Moussant Soap Free Cleansing Gel

THE PRODUCT(S):

Papulex Moussant Soap Free Cleansing Gel: Papulex Moussant Soap Free Cleansing Gel is a soap free cleansing gel that helps reduce skin blemishes while gently cleansing and moisturising the skin. Recommended to be used morning and night to help clear blemishes and help prevent future breakouts. The Papulex® Moussant cleansing gel contains moisturising agents to hydrate and soothe leaving skin smooth and refreshed.

The color of the cleansing gel is a clear bluish color, but the scent reminds me of floor cleaning detergent. And, my acne scars and blemishes are still on my face. Not blemish-free as their Facebook page "fans" claimed :(

VERDICT: The scent of this cleansing gel actually reminds me of floor cleaning detergent or more accurately, the type of hand washing gel that you can find in public toilets and the similar type of toilet cleaning smell in public toilets too. So basically, this cleansing gel doesn't smell like anything similar to facial cleansing gels at all. Which I personally find a huge turnoff in terms of using it.

Also, it claimed to be a "soap-free" cleansing gel, therefore, it's expected not to sud up so much when using it. And yet, I experienced this mild tugging and pulling sensation as I was using this to wash my face. Mind you, I've used other similar "soap-free" facial cleansing gel and soap, and most of them doesn't even have this pull-and-tug sensation that I've experienced with this Papulex Moussant Soap Free Cleansing Gel cleansing gel.

And for most of us living in the S.E.Asia region, Papulex Asia Facebook constantly have users who commented and testified that they are blemish-free from using their products. Initially, I only requested 1 sample kit/duo from Papulex. But upon reading their so-called "blemish-free reviews" , I decided to use a second FB account to get another one more sample kit/duo. This would have meant that I have more to try and test out. And ironically, my face looks pretty much the same, acne scars and blemishes are still very visible on my skin, with no signs of fading.

I personally think what's even worse is that, all the "testimonial photos" are all slightly hazy and blurry. And I don't mean just a small percentage, it's like, almost every "testimonial photos" that claimed to be "blemish-free" after using Papulex products are all slightly hazy and blurry. It's almost as if some sort of Photoshop was done on the photos before it got turned slightly hazy and blurry so sharp eyes can't tell the difference nor be able to see any sort of "photoshop" work done to the photos in question.

VERDICT: ✓

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Sampling activity is over. This is by far the most misleading product I've used. I've heard of using Photoshop to enhance one's photos (like XiaXue does), but this is the first time I am suspecting a company of using Photoshop to try and mislead their users into thinking their product(s) work. In short, I have more doubts regarding this product than ever after seeing their "testimonial photos".

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Samples Received/Redeemed: 08 July - 12 July 2013

For the past 1 - 2 weeks, PhotoBucket hasn't been kind to me at all. I've been using their service for around 10 years or so and recently, they've been giving me that dreaded "You've exceeded your bandwidth limit" message whenever I logged into my PhotoBucket account. You can see the proof of this when you see that "Looks who's Popular" message within the broken PhotoBucket image links on my blog. Which in turn made my blog looks like it's been abandoned for a few centuries instead.

Luckily, Yolanda from I Review U Read managed to inform me that PhotoBucket has been giving me this crap issue just when I thought I've had it settled. And honestly, I really refused to pay them any money in the first place since they decided to punk me with that "Bandwidth Limit" issue. Honestly, this isn't the right way to get your existing free user to pay you money for better service. In fact, by "punking" my blog like that, I am even more determined not to give them a single cent which in turn meant that I will turn to other image uploading websites that do not charge a single cent for every user(s) whether they are anonymous or not.

Anyway, less grief from me and here's a look at what I've bagged and (unfortunately) bought for the past week or so. First time I felt as if I am going to have a mini heart attack from seeing my bill when paying for my cosmetics at Sephora..

So, I got to know about this by chance from ilovepeppersung. But as usual, I urged everyone I know to quickly go get it as it's limited to the first 1000 request only.

This is the from the Liese Daily Enhance Styling Series, it's called Frizz-Free Styling Milk and this sample sachet unfortunately didn't state anyway how much the sample weighs. So, I am guessing it's a 10ml to 15ml sample instead as one doesn't need too much to style their hair.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Unfortunately, all samples has been fully redeemed since they are only limiting to 1000 redemptions and we all know there's more than 1000 interested females in Singapore who wants to try the latest samples of new products before buying. Hmm..

I recently visited Sephora to check out and buy some cosmetics and when it's time to pay the bill, I got a shock. 3 small items that came up to S$109. Wow, cosmetics in Singapore are definitely getting more expensive and it's not like it's branded or whatsoever. Although I have to admit that these 3 items recommended to me by the helpful staff at Sephora Vivo City are really good to use, even for a makeup noob like me LOL

The 3 items I bought from Sephora are:

• bareMinerals Ready SPF 15 Touch Up Veil @ 10g for S$42.00
• bareMInerals SPF 20 Correcting Concealer @ 2g for S$39.00
• bliss fabulips foaming lip cleanser @ 7ml for S$28.00

Let's talk about the bareMInerals SPF 20 Correcting Concealer, it's a cream-based concealer and I have to say it does a really good job in hiding my existing and old blemish and acne scars and spots. It looks almost as if I don't have any blemish nor acne issues at all. And as for the bareMinerals Ready SPF 15 Touch Up Veil, it really help keeps my face looking matte the entire day, and I only found myself applying an extra thin layer of powder on my face during my break time to cover up the somewhat slightly shining nose of mine (Oh, my oily nose..)

And as for the bliss fabulips foaming lip cleanser, I almost bought the other bliss trial kit that costs S$70 which consists of a lip scrub, this foaming lip cleanser I've mentioned and another 2 more items that I can't remember. But since I've never tried this brand before, I just simply stick with the foaming lip cleanser instead. Rest assured I will put up a review after trying it. But meanwhile, I'm just probably short of a matte-ish lipstick as I am not a fond user of lipstick, especially the glossy type. I'm too much of a matte lover through and through although I do wish for bigger eyes lol

And yes, the bliss fabulips foaming lip cleanser really foams on the lips. I've tried it once just to see if it will really foam up and it did :D

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: No samples for redemption for now. But I can assure you that the staff at Sephora Vivo City knows their cosmetics, so I highly recommend the Sephora outlet at Vivo City instead :D

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Garnier Pure Active Fruit Energy Daily Energising Gel Scrub Review

WHAT IS IT: Garnier Pure Active Fruit Energy Daily Energising Gel Scrub

THE PRODUCT(S):

Garnier Pure Active Fruit Energy Daily Energising Gel Scrub: Garnier Pure Active Fruit Energy Scrub helps to target imperfections and leaves skin looking radiant. The scrub formula, with salicylic acid and exfoliating particles, deeply cleanse impurities, tighten pores and help protect against the appearance of imperfections.

Enriched with extracts of grapefruit, pomegranate and a derivative of vitamin C, the invigorating fresh fragrance washes over your face with a fruity burst. It effectively cleanses whilst giving skin a boosting radiance. Intensely purified & exfoliated, your skin looks revitalised, more beautiful and your complexion radiant.

It comes in a gel-based facial scrub with little exfoliating beads, gentle enough to use on a daily basis.

Suds easy, and yet the suds doesn't make my skin dry out as I expected it to. Instead, the citrus scent acts as a perk-me-up in the morning when I'm still half dead to the world.

VERDICT: I love how the citrus scent explodes your smell and senses as soon as you squeezed out a decent amount to cleanse your face. I am generally a sucker for fruit scented facial products as I love how these fruit scent wake up my senses in the morning. And let's face it, it's either take a cold shower or use a fruit-based facial cleanser to do the waking up part, and I am definitely not the self-torture-by-cold-shower type of person. Hence, out with that cold shower and in with the this citrus scented facial cleanser instead.

And I particularly love the fact that despite it having micro exfoliating beads in it, it is actually gentle enough to use on a daily basis. I'm sure most of us are aware that over-exfoliating our skin doesn't help it, instead it might make our already thin and fragile skin look worse. But not with this Garnier Pure Active Fruit Energy Daily Energising Gel Scrub. I've been using it for a week or so, and so far, my new pimples are generally more well-behaved already and there are definitely signs of the pimple taking it's natural course of action.

And along the way, I also noticed my skin color looks slightly much more better than before. Previously, I used to have this unsightly yellowish tint to my skintone, almost as if I am ill or sick. But now, I love the fact that the yellowish-sallow looking skintone is gone, instead replaced by my skin's natural fiarness. And to top it off, there's a natural blush on my cheeks too. This ultimately means less powder blush to be applied on my skin, as compared to my previous skintone, where I have to slap on a decent layer of BB Cream, followed by more blush color so as not to spook any innocent humans at night.

My only grouse is that, it takes quite an effort to wash off the facial cleanser after I am done with the "oohing" and "aahing" at the scent and the exfoliating beads that exfoliates my skin gently. Let's just say, I can safely ignore this setback since this cleanser contains anti-inflammatory agents that helpfully reduce skin irritation and at the same time contains Salicylic Acid which my skin is urgently in need of to show newer skin underneath xD

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Fresh citrus fruity scent is a godsend on mornings when I am still a sleepwalking zombie.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: None at the moment :(

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? Also includes updates to health, beauty & lifestyle tips at least once a day. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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