AmethyStory Mineral Aqua Gel Review

WHAT IS IT: AmethyStory Mineral Aqua Gel

THE PRODUCT(S):

AmethyStory Mineral Aqua Gel: No colouring, no fragrance, this gentle formula is specially blended with Amethyst, Hyaluronic Acid & Bio Energy Fluid to help enhance the removal of dead, dry & rough skin & promote skin rejuvenation. After removing the dead skin layers that form a barrier, your skin would be in a optimal condition to absorb skincare nutrients!

Instant results after use: skin feels fairer, more hydrated, and clearer. Make up can glide on easier & more lasting with a natural look. Use the Amethystory Mineral Aqua Gel for a more natural way to improve your complexion

Smells pretty decent and doesn't feel sticky upon application at all.

And it works so well, kinda half tempted to use it on a daily basis although it's a little difficult to wash off after usage. Haha xD

VERDICT: First to start off things, this Mineral Aqua Gel from AmethyStory has no significant scent, just that it reminds me of clean and fresh, that's all. I personally don't think I am a stickler for scented facial products unless it's Green Tea, Tea Tree and the likes. Anything else would just be a tad awkward unless the scent is literally to-die-for. I still remember previously when I review the Natural Aqua Gel Cure and I personally still think in terms of after-usage, Natural Aqua Gel Cure seems slightly better although price-wise, AmethyStory would be cheaper.

AmethyStory Mineral Aqua Gel is actually milky-white in color and the product has a gel-like consistency to boot. So, I won't be surprised if you got the sample version and found out that it starts to harden a little if you forgot to use it for a week or 2 after transferring it from the sample sachet to a reusable container/pot. Mine's starting to feel like hair gel somewhat, and I don't really want to know how much more it can harden if I leave it any longer.

Despite the misforgivings about the condition of this product, I found that this product also work well. And since I haven't been properly exfoliating my skin for close to a month previously, I was kinda happy that I managed to get off so much dead skin cells immediately upon using this for the first time. This gel-like product starts to slowly "melt" into liquid form as I massaged it around my face and soon enough, white and wet flakes started showing up as a testament to my laziness in facial exfoliation LOL

But when it's time to wash off the after-math of the product and the white wet flakes off my face, I seemed to have encountered a slight problem. It took a few washes before I can totally wash off everything on my face. Seems like those wet flakes refused to budge and get off my skin upon initial face washing, and subsequent washing doesn't seem to totally help. I ended up having to grab a tissue to swipe off the leftover flakes off my face. Sometime an exfoliator shouldn't do upon after usage, don't you think so?

In terms of usage, this product doesn't seem to fare so well although the price is definitely cheaper than the Natural Aqua Gel Cure though.

VERDICT: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: First time I ever felt that washing my face seems like a chore ^^;

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: AmethyStory on Facebook is no longer giving this sample away. I would actually recommend asking among your friends who else has a sample that they can give you to try though. Let's just say, it's a chore to re-wash your face repeatedly :/

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 :)

Read More

Samples Received/Redeemed: 19 Nov - 24 Nov 2012

So, another week of samples received and redeemed, freebies won and gift voucher spent. Another sad week to say the least, since I have only 3 goodies to show here. But at the end, it's better than having nothing to show huh? Without further ado, here's the freebies/goodies for the past week.

Despite many people joining this Welcome Giveaway lucky draw organised by Erabelle Singapore, I'm just glad my name was one of the chosen for a Erabelle Long-Lasting Brown Pencil.

Arrived at Vivo City rather early, so I did my usual "I-wander-around-like-a-lost-soul" thing. Lurked near Erabelle, only to see 4-6 people crowding around a table having a discussion. Thinking that they may be having a meeting, I proceed to wander around some more, finally had it and approached the Information Desk and inquire about Erabelle's opening hours. Turns out, there were staffs actually manning the front counter inside Erabelle lol

The lady who served me was very matronly and friendly at the same time, and kudos to their uniform too as it's actually a kimono. Pretty! Initially I wanted the black one, but after she tested out the colors on my hand, I realized black was too dark while gray seemed even darker. The staff agreed too, so I settled for brown instead. And this brown pencil costs S$34.24 in retail prize (o_O) Just glad I got it for free instead of having to buy one.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: If you are on my friend list, you would have had the app spammed by me on your wall. But nonetheless, I think I might have posted it on my Facebook page as well. And for those of you beautiful ladies (and men who joined to get one for your wife, girlfriend or female siblings), you might want to check your email inbox and see if you are one of the lucky 100 who won too.

In my previous Samples Received/Redeemed post, I've stated that I got a S$5 Watsons voucher, courtesy of a survey prize awarded by Pfizer Singapore. Knowing that I was going to Vivo City to redeem my Erabelle Brow Pencil, I figured I could stake out the Watsons there as I am pretty sure they should stock My Scheming masks. Glad I brought the voucher along to offset my mask by S$5.

Although kinda sucky that Pfizer Singapore took so long to mail my voucher out, or I could have bought my mask at an even cheaper prize. But still, better than no voucher, I reckon.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Go over to http://smusg.asia.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3JBlvVs79N86H9X, and fill in a survey. It takes around 5 minutes, I took just slightly longer since there are questions asked about some YouTube video ads. And I don't think the free voucher will be forever, so hurry!!

Previously, I joined the "Make A Gingerbread Man" app by The Body Shop and I didn't realized that they would send another email to me informing me that the surprise gift voucher would be ready for collection. And stupidly, I thought the first email was meant for redemption. And hence, made my way down to the Ion Orchard outlet to redeem it.

The staffs are rather ignorant and haughty actually. Their outlet entrance was wide opened and seeing that there wasn't any shutter pulled half way down nor was there any sort of barricade at the entrance, I presumed their outlet was opened and went in to redeem my surprise gift voucher.

The staff nearest to the entrance told me that their outlet opens at 10:30am. And seeing that my time was already 10:35am, I asked them if they said they opened at 10:30am cos it's already 10:35. They stopped whatever they were doing and all of them looked at me like I was some sort of freak show. Obviously, they are ignorant of their own company rules and policy.

In which I duly made a feedback on The Body Shop Facebook page. It wouldn't hurt nor kill them to just kindly inform me that they do not have the vouchers ready for collection yet or even anything. So unhelpful, despite me writing so many reviews on how good their products are. I think ungrateful is a better description..

And I finally got them to allow me to redeem my gift card at Bukit Panjang Plaza instead as the staffs at the BPJ outlet are much more friendlier and down-to-earth. As usual, my favorite store manager there was a little blur lol Until her staff (a sweet Indian girl) remembered and asked if I was the one who feedback about the Ion Orchard outlet. So, I just told them what happened exactly, as you all had read about in the previous paragrpah.

And the store manager and the sweet Indian girl's response? The same as me, appalled! Store manager said that the Ion Orchard outlet staffs should stopped or dropped whatever they were doing and attend to the customer, in which case, me. While the sweet Indian girl actually asked me to retort back to the Ion Orchard outlet staffs exactly what time is their clock?

Glad to know there are friendly, sweet and understanding TBS staffs who actually feel and sympathized for their customers. Can't say the same for the Ion Orchard outlet one. If you don't believe I have friendly relationship with the BPJ outlet staffs, go to the nearest or favorite outlet of your choice and ask your preferred staff if they had to do a Gangnam Style dance at the end of their Dinner and Dance ;-)

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Go over to The Body Shop Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TheBodyShopSingapore/app_278317458951524, and Like their page in order to access the app. Next, register your particulars and once done, you may proceed to decorate your own Gingerbread Man.

Whether you did a good or bad job at it, you will still be eligible to receive/redeem a Surprise Gift Card. I would suggest avoiding redeeming from the Ion Orchard outlet since their staffs aren't that friendly and seemed rather ignorant about their own company rules, policy and the time their outlet is supposed to open.

TIP: People tend to cheat at all the apps that TBS came up with. As with the previous Tea Tree Power app, I think 3rd place winner cheated cos he/she went from 90+ votes to 1600 votes in under 24 hours. Either they have really dedicated friends who want them to win so badly or as we all know it, kept making extra accounts to vote for themselves. Whereas bloggers like Charlotte from MFP didn't even get to one of the top 3 spots at all, despite her review being one of the best ones out there. No doubt those with 400+ votes and more probably cheated as well, I'm just saying. So, my advice is not to focus on trying to win. Too much anguish. Just do the app and get your free Surprise Gift Card.

This is from Montagne Jeunesse.

As mentioned in another one of my previous Samples Received/Redeemed post, I've posted up the sample redemption link for the Montagne Jeunesse sample redemption. Since I wasn't sure if the redemption is still available, I got a friend to redeem it and he filled in my mailing address instead. This time round, I got the Deep Sea Mud Pac mask instead. And luckily, I think they didn't saved our email address. So, he got another one for himself, but with his mother's name lol

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Go over to Montagne Jeunesse Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MJSingapore, Like their page. Next, click on the Free Sample link and follow the prompts. After that, sit back and wait for the sample to be mailed to you.

I'm rather tempted to try a 2nd round and see if they mailed me a green one instead xD

Why not like my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PuNiaosProductReviews to be informed of latest samples I found, which is duly updated? It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt down samples :)

Read More

Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo [Organix] Review

WHAT IS IT: Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo [Organix]

THE PRODUCT(S):

Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo [Organix]: It’s the perfect blend of cherry blossom extracts and ginseng root to rejuvenate the scalp and hair follicle to add volume at the root while replenishing your hair with nourishing rice milk and bamboo extract for hydration and shine.

Tried a smidgen to review. But since I only have a sample satchet, it's an example of too little shampoo and too much water. It actually does produce soap suds rather well and washes off easily too.

THE VERDICT: First of all we need to focus on the 1st important thing. The scent, what else?? This Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo smells heavenly, so much so I almost couldn't bear to use it at all. According to the packaging on this Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo, it has the perfect blend of cherry blossom extracts (that's where the wonderful heavenly scent came from) and ginseng root to rejuvenate our scalp and hair follicle to add volume at the roots. And at the same time, it replenishes our hair with a nourishing rice milk and bamboo extract for hydration and shine.

It does sound promising, after my not so happy encounter with their Tea Tree Mint shampoo. But somehow, this product actually promises, where Tea Tree Mint shampoo failed. Astonishing, we may all wonder? Since both shampoos are from Organix respectively, and yet 1 worked while the other failed to deliver. How? I'm also curious, but here's my own verdict on the how that promises.

I purposely decided not to properly comb my hair (only finger-combed) for a good 2 days prior to using this. And each time, I always kept my hair up in a bun. That is definitely guaranteed to leave tangles in your long hair, I assure you without hesitation. And after using and washing off this Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo, my hair actually instantly felt smoother, softer and all the supposedly tangled parts of my hair actually went kaput. And I didn't use any hair conditioner in the shower nor use my newly trusted BFF Moroccan Argan Oil as well. It was only the shampoo, nothing else!

The shampoo actually looks a little pale yellowish and has a semi-transparent/slightly opaque look to it, but still, the smell is just oh-so-divinely-heavenly. It foams and suds rather well with no extra effort and it washes off your hair easily too, without making your scalp feel as if there's leftover shampoo residue that escaped the shower session.

As we all are well aware of the fact that we shouldn't attempt to comb our hair in the shower and immediately after showering when our hair is still wet, as it will damage our hair and also at the same time yank out healthy hair due to the wet combing part. So, I dutifully waited until my hair was almost at least a good 70% - 80% dry before attempting to finger-comb. And guess what? Not much hairfall was visible, it did smooth out my hair. Now, that is 1 hair/shampoo miracle I could possibly not figure out on my own. Hmm..

PRODUCT RATING: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Felt a hair miracle, wished it last longer, but it's a sample satchet, meh..

WHERE TO REDEEM A SAMPLE: If you think you would like to give the Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo (and Moroccan Argan Oil) a try, go over to Organix Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/organixsingapore, Like their page.

Next, click on the link under Like and Message button that says "FREE SAMPLES"

Read More

L'Oreal White Perfect Laser: Anti-Spot Brightening Essence Review

WHAT IS IT: L'Oreal White Perfect Laser

THE PRODUCT(S):

L'Oreal White Perfect Laser: For the first time, L’Oreal Paris pits the White Perfect LaserTM range against the pinnacle of whitening technology, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment.”

A clinical trial conducted in L’Oréal Laboratories show that 8 weeks of daily application of both White Perfect Laser™ Essence and Day Cream SPF19/PA+++ delivered comparable results to those obtained from one IPL session on six key dimensions.

Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/lorealparissingapore/app_321174177960580

VERDICT: First of all, I've tried sniffing this L'Oreal White Perfect Laser. Although I did managed to detect a little scent, but it isn't so strong enough to discern exactly what. But I am glad to say the scent doesn't turn you off into applying onto your skin/face.

Initially, I thought this L'Oreal White Perfect Laser: Anti-Spot Brightening Essence would be more of a watery, serum-like consistency. However, it's actually a whitish essence with the consistency of facial lotion. Not the thick and creamy variety that may seemed too rich to be absorbed into our skin fast or efficiently enough. Even though the product stated that it is to be applied/used before the usual moisturizing, I purposely skipped the moisturizing part in order to guage if the product will end up making my face look more oily.

The absorption rate on my skin is rather fast and despite hours after using this, my face didn't look over-oily at all and there is non-existence sticky feeling as well. Despite using this for a few days already, I don't really see the random dark spots on my face becoming lighter at all. Maybe this is another one of those products where you really need to use it on a long-term basis (6 weeks to 3 months long) before any effect is noticeable.

Despite the product promising results in 8 weeks, I'm positively sure most of us would have prefer to see visible results in as fast as 4 to 6 weeks. I will still continue using this until my sample tube runs out and update this blog post for further results, although I'm confident that the sample I have won't last 8 weeks that long ^^; And I am keeping my fingers crossed that my dark spots will be lightened, if not, this will again be another one of those products that promises but never quite deliver.

PRODUCT RATING: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Dark spots no more, but sample too little wor!

WHERE TO REDEEM A SAMPLE: Go over to L'Oreal Paris Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/lorealparissingapore, Like their page. Next, look for a link that says White Perfect Laser. Click on it and once the page has finished loading, click on White Perfect Laser Sampling, fill in your details and wait for the sample to arrive in your mailbox.

However, I must warn you that L'Oreal Paris Singapore takes their own sweet time in mailing out samples. Mine took more than a month before it finally arrived, and their latest sample for the Lucent Magique BB Cream hasn't yet arrived in my mailbox despite requesting for it as soon as they released it.

Good luck, I'd say, if you are game enough to wait for your sample of L'Oreal White Perfect Laser: Anti-Spot Brightening Essence ^^

Read More

Moroccan Argan Oil Penetrating Oil [ Organix ] Review

WHAT IS IT: Moroccan Argan Oil [ Organix ]

THE PRODUCT(S):
Moroccan Argan Oil [ Organix ]: This rare, ultra light weight formula is nature’s secret to silky perfection! Derived from the southwest region of Morocco, argan oil instantly penetrates the hair shaft to seal in shine and protect from styling heat and UV damage. Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Penetrating Oil fights frizz, strengthens and moisturizes dry, brittle hair to give you smooth sexy tresses.

Using a few drops, and you can see that it looks pretty clear.

VERDICT: First of all, let us start off with the usual #1 activity when reviewing beauty products. We sniff and fall in love! -sniffs- Well, this Moroccan Argan Oil Penetrating Oil actually has a sweet non-cloying and pleasant scent, despite being a hair oil, it doesn't literally reek of the smell of oil that makes you feel nauseous. The color of this Moroccan Argan Oil Penetrating Oil is actually a pale transparent yellowish color, close to the color of chrysanthemum tea, I would say.

As you can see in the 2nd photo above, even though it is a small sample satchet, this is really good to use for a total of at least 1 week or slightly more, depending on how long your hair is. I transferred mine to a re-usable plastic pot for further usage throughout the week. You do not need to use too much even if you have long hair. Application/Usage is also straightforward as well, just rub it in between your palms to "spread" it out, then run your 'oil-spread' fingers through your hair to coat evenly and get rid of tangled ends while nourishing split ends at the same time.

This Moroccan Argan Oil Penetrating Oil absorbs rather quickly into my hair and despite hours after using this, my hair doesn't feel nor look oily/greasy and yet at the same time, left this wonderful scent in my hair. You may think that 'Moroccan' and 'Argan Oil' may sound like an oily combination that is going to smell bad, but guess what, you will fall in love with this scent. It's just simply divine!

Even from the first time I appplied this Moroccan Argan Oil Penetrating Oil on my hair, it already made my hair feel so baby smooth. And I just cannot resist finding an excuse just so I can run my fingers through my smooth hair again and again. And after applying on your hair, the leftover residue on your hands are easily washed off with soap + water as well. Unlike some similar products that may require you to use more soap than usual.

PRODUCT RATING: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Simply divine! Even better than that sinful chocolate cake.

WHERE TO REDEEM A SAMPLE: So far, you can only redeem samples for:

• Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo x 1
• Morocco Argan Oil x 1

If you think you would like to give the Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo and Moroccan Argan Oil a try, you can request for samples via Organix Singapore's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/organixsingapore.

Click on the link under Like and Message button that says "FREE SAMPLES"

Read More

SilkPro Treatment Conditioner Review

WHAT IS IT: SilkPro Treatment Conditioner


THE PRODUCT(S):

SilkPro Treatment Conditioner: Silkpro Treatment Conditioner is specially enriched with natural active ingredients to care for and protect hair texture from turning dull and dry as well as to maintain hair colour.

The intensive conditioner helps hair lock in moisture to give you stronger, shinier, and healthier-looking hair, while maintaining good scalp condition..


Tested a dollop for review.

VERDICT: First of all, the scent of this SilkPro Treatment Conditioner is rather pleasant. I'm guessing it's probably because of the shampoo range series, if not, your hair will smell weird with different scents from different hair products (the shampoo and conditioner, namely) clashing together. Not every scent complements each other ^^

It spreads easily, as you can see in the 3rd image above. However, this is also where my peeve about this product starts. For a start, conditioner(s) of any types or brands should make your hair feel smoother and much more manageable prior to using. And yet at the same time, able to be rinsed off completely and cleanly without leftover residue. A sample satchet is actually enough for 2 days usage as I don't need the entire satchet for my head, just mainly for the tangled, frizzy and split ends.

Again, I musy once more stress that the only product that touches your scalp at any time would be your shampoo as you need to wash it off in the end after deeply cleansing and massaging your scalp to promote blood circulation, blah blah blah. Conditioners, especially, must never ever touch your scalp, even if it's in the shower. It's not meant for scalp use, it's for hair use. Remember this!

True that this SilkPro Treatment Conditioner did make my hair feel much more smoother and manageable, almost as good as the Dove one I used years before. However, it sort of leaves a filmy and greasy feeling on my back, since my hair is long and touches my back easily especially when wet in the shower. The first day, I didn't realize it until I was done with my shower and was about to dry myself.

With that in mind, I paid a little more attention to my back as well for signs of greasiness and feelings of oiliness after using the SilkPro Treatment Conditioner. And there is the feeling of greasiness again! And it was really hard to wash off the feeling of greasiness/oiliness off my back after rinsing my hair clean of conditioner. Did I mentioned that I had to rinse my hair longer than before?

This SilkPro Treatment Conditioner although manages to leave my hair feeling smooth, soft and manageable, but it does take a little longer to rinse off, despite using only a small dollop for my hair. Mind you, I didn't use 5-6 teaspoon-ful of hair conditioner. Just a dollop is enough to cover from the back of your head to the ends of your hair. And I basically felt I was re-washing my hair all over again, but without the shampoo. And once the rinsing was done, my back was getting the conditioner treatment that was unnecessarily.

I ended up having to re-shower my back again to get rid of the greasy/oily feeling left by the conditioner. Thinking that it may be me and not this product, I tried using it on the back of my hand, as you can see in the last image above. The result? It's definitely SilkPro Treatment Conditioner, not me.

And at the end, I had more hairfall than before, despite using SilkPro Treatment Conditioner together with SilkPro Hair Fall Control Shampoo

PRODUCT RATING(S): ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Having to re-do everything in the shower? Not cool..

WHERE TO REDEEM A SAMPLE: I got my samples from SilkPro Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SilkProSG while they were still having a Facebook sample giveaway. However, the samples were redeemed too fast. So, I'd recommend being a fan of their page by Liking their page in order to be informed of their hair care kit giveaways at selected locations.

Generally, I'd suggest getting this hair care kit and saving the shampoo samples for at least a good 2 days use as you don't need much shampoo on your head. And you can gauge/judge for yourself if it is really effective for you. I know it doesn't for me, so I won't bother to buy this product ever.

Read More

SilkPro Hair Fall Control Shampoo Review

[ My humble apologies for not uploading a blog post yesterday. I spent an hour on PhotoBucket trying to upload these batch of photos, but apparently, PhotoBucket decided to take a day off without prior notice, so I was forced to join PhotoBucket on their day off too. ]

WHAT IS IT: SilkPro Hair Fall Control Shampoo


THE PRODUCT(S):

SilkPro Hair Fall Control Shampoo: Get early treatment for hair loss and greying hair. 11 Eastern and Western herbs are specially extracted and combined with Amla Extract to refresh and effectively cleanse your hair without drying.


This produces soap suds easily when mixed with water.

Source: http://www.silkpro.com.sg/index_01.html#/products

VERDICT: First of all, the scent of this SilkPro Hair Fall Control Shampoo have a rather sweet and strong scent to it. However, this strong smell actually makes you hair smell nice after just 1 wash. And as claimed by SilkPro, "in just one wash, you can truly feel the difference", I personally beg to differ entirely.

I tried it the first time after getting the sample from SilkPro's Facebook page, this SilkPro Hair Fall Control Shampoo actually leaves a tingling and cooling sensation around my neck area where the shampoo dripped instead of feeling it on my scalp. (Just like the Head & Shoulders Menthol shampoo.) However, I don't see any improvement despite saving that 1 sample satchet for 2 days use. As SilkPro claimed that consumer(s) can see the difference in 1 wash, I found that I lost more hair after 1 wash instead. How's that for that quote "in just one wash, you can truly feel the difference"? I did feel the difference, but not as promised.

Granted that this shampoo didn't do much harm to my hair except to give me more hair fall instead of "controlling it", the scent actually is a perk me up after showering. However, I cannot deny the fact that this shampoo also cleanse well, lathers easily and also washed off easily too. 2 days after using that 1 sample satchet, I felt itchiness on my scalp, on top of the more-than-usual hair loss that was supposed to be controlled and felt in 1 wash.

Despite the shampoo touting to be a Hair Fall Control shampoo, it doesn't deliver at all. I'm pretty sure there are other shampoos out in the market that actually does the job as promised. Even when SilkPro has managed to get a few popular celebrities to endorse this product, I really and truly wonder if the endorsers actually did tried the shampoo for a duration of at least 1 week to a month, or were they really just paid to claimed that it works despite never using this before.

PRODUCT RATING: ✓

WHAT I THINK: I feel like those bald little birdies always seen trying to peck for food at local hawker centres -_-

WHERE TO REDEEM A SAMPLE: I got my samples from SilkPro Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SilkProSG while they were still having a Facebook sample giveaway. However, the samples were redeemed too fast. So, I'd recommend being a fan of their page by Liking their page in order to be informed of their hair care kit giveaways at selected locations.

Generally, I'd suggest getting this hair care kit and saving the shampoo samples for at least a good 2 days use as you don't need much shampoo on your head. And you can gauge/judge for yourself if it is really effective for you. I know it doesn't for me, so I won't bother to buy this product ever.

Read More

Cetaphil® Oily Skin Cleanser Review

WHAT IS IT: Cetaphil® Oily Skin Cleanser


THE PRODUCT(S):

Cetaphil® Oily Skin Cleanser: Provides effective cleansing for oily, combination or blemished skin. Its gentle foaming action removes oil, dirt, skin debris and makeup without leaving your skin dry and, importantly, without the tightness that results from soap-based cleansers. That’s because it is formulated to remove oil without affecting the skin barrier.

Skin acts as a barrier, keeping moisture in so it is important that a cleanser works without compromising the skin barrier. Cetaphil® Oily Skin Cleanser does not clog pores and can be used in conjunction with acne medication. Used twice daily for two weeks on people with moderately oily skin, Cetaphil® Oily Skin Cleanser reduced sebum levels by up to 60% without over drying the skin.2


Poured out a close-to-generous amount on the back of my hand for reviewing. Although it's only a sample, but it is still a product, must use sparingly!

VERDICT: When I first heard of Cetaphil®, I was a little hesitant. Partly because my knowledge on beauty jargons aren't so great then, and the word 'non-comedogenic' quite frankly scared me off a little. Nowadays, it isn't unusual to find beauty products, whether they are facial lotions, facial cleansers and the like with medical terms that some or even most of us are unaware of until recently.

But I'm definitely glad to know some of their meanings and 'non-comedogenic' actually means.

Non-comedogenic: Not likely to block pores in most people

All in all, whether we have normal, oily, sensitive or combination skin types, it is always important to choose facial cleansing products that doesn't clog pores. This doesn't just apply to only oilies (another term for folks like us with oily skin), but to every other skin types as well.

But back to the topic at hand before I get carried away!

Personally, I've tried all types of facial cleansers (and products) meant for oily skin throughout my growing years from the time I left school until now. What initially works for me ended up being useful after a few years time and it became a massive facial cleansing hunt for another one that works almost just as well. (This time round, it's not me, it's the cleanser..)

I've previously tried the BHAs and the AHAs type of facial cleanser, although it looked as if it works for my skin, but the effects are only less than 2 weeks. The acne on my chin will start to settle down like dormant volcanoes, but once the magic is over, those pesky little chin devils of mine will start flaring up, getting red and angry to the point where it cannot decide whether it should just fade away to nothing or just go ripe till pimple pus formed. And it's already been 2-3 months since those chin devils of mine has made my chin their permanent home.

Benzoyl peroxide a.k.a Oxy 5 seemed to work somehow, but effect isn't lasting, it just slightly calm down my acne while Oxy 10 works miraculously well, but ended up making my face looked so red that I've had friends and colleagues asked if I had been binge-drinking <.<

So far, I've been using this Cetaphil® Oily Skin Cleanser sample for a couple of days now, and each time after usage, my skin doesn't feel as if I have left-over residue on my face that I forgot to clean off. And it doesn't even over-dry my skin nor does my skin feel tight and taught, It just simply and effectively clear off enough facial sebum so my face looks matte without over-glossing too much.

Source: http://www.cetaphil.com.au/Products/OilySkinCleanser.aspx

This product doesn't lather nor foam like soap, just simple and effective facial cleansing. Due to the fact what I have with me now is a sample version only, but I would defintiely buy a retail size version (500ml) once I'm done using my other facial cleansers that I have over-stocked.

PRODUCT RATING: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Patience, persistence and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success

WHERE TO REDEEM A SAMPLE: If you would like to feel non-clogged pores, go over to Cetaphil® Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/CetaphilSG

Click on the link under Like and Message that says "Free Cetaphil Samples" for a 29ml sample

Read More

Organix Hydrating Tea Tree Mint Shampoo Review

WHAT IS IT: Organix Hydrating Tea Tree Mint Shampoo


THE PRODUCT(S):

Squeezed out a decent dollop, looks opaque-green and the scent of peppermint is really strong.


Organix Hydrating Tea Tree Mint Shampoo: An ultra hydrating blend of Australian tea tree oils to add moisture and strength, while nourishing your hair with replenishing moisturizing milk proteins and micro-infused peppermint oils for hydration and balance. Re-energize your hair with this unique blend of active ingredients, creating a three-in-one decadent treat. All you need for moist, smooth and seductive hair in one irresistible formula.

VERDICT: First of all, I have to admit, I was intrigued enough to buy a retail size version because of the scent. Besides, you do not need to pay money just to sniff it, so I just opened up the cap at Watsons, took a long sniff. And I quite liked it, fresh, minty, that wonderful scent of Tea Tree and not forgetting Peppermint.

But when it's time to use it, I was a little disappointed. Despite having peppermint oil in it, it wasn't really literally peppermint. If you're unsure what I meant by that, here's an example. Head & Shoulders previously had a shampoo that has Menthol in it, and when using, it instantly gives your scalp a soothing chill. And that chill stays on your scalp until your hair drys.

And that is the kind of "peppermint" feeling I was hoping to have when using Organix Hydrating Tea Tree Mint Shampoo, but didn't get it. As what the packaging has mentioned and what I've noticed, it lathers rather well. Especially when using products that has Tea Tree Oil, it should give your skin a tingling and chilling sensation. But not Organix Hydrating Tea Tree Mint Shampoo, in fact, there isn't any sensation, it's almost like using my regular anti-dandruff shampoo, except for the strong scent of peppermint that tells me it isn't.

Also, I don't really feel that my hair is hydrated after usage, in fact, my hair tends to get even more drier, especially the last 15cm of my hair. Sure, my hair feels soft, looks shiny and glossy, but it only lasts a short while before the dryness in my hair kicks in. It promises, but just didn't exactly deliver what it should.

PRODUCT RATING: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: This peppermint infusion only increases the flow of frustration.

WHERE TO REDEEM A SAMPLE: So far, you can only redeem samples for samples of Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo x 1 and Morocco Argan Oil x 1 only. Hydrating Tea Tree Mint shampoo is not availble for sample redemption. If you think you would like to give the Cherry Blossom Ginseng Shampoo and Moroccan Argan Oil a try, you can request for samples via Organix Singapore's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/organixsingapore

Click on the link under Like and Message button that says "FREE SAMPLES"

Read More

Redeemed: Samples in the Past Week

So, for the entire last week of July AND first week of August, I've been on a sample/freebie redemption spree and here are the goodies I got from self-collection, in my mailbox and the places/URLs you all can get it from. There's quite a big haul in this post, so be prepared to be surprised~


Biore Singapore


20ml Biore Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover

WHERE TO REDEEM: Go to this website at http://www.ksgpromo.com/machform/embed.php?id=8
, fill up the form + questionnaire and just sit back and wait while it takes around 3-4 weeks for processing and delivery of the sample.

❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦


Cetaphil Singapore


29ml Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser

WHERE TO REDEEM: Go to Cetaphil's Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/CetaphilSG, click on the Free Cetaphil Samples link and follow the instructions and just wait for it to be delivered to your mailbox.

❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦


L'Oréal Paris White Perfect Laser


5ml L'Oréal Paris White Perfect Laser (For 5ml, it sure take uber long for the mail to reach me lol)

WHERE TO REDEEM: Go to L'Oréal Paris Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/lorealparissingapore, click on the White Perfect Laser link. Once the page loads, click on the White Perfect Laser Sampling link and follow the instructions and just wait for it to be delivered to your mailbox. (For L'Oréal Paris White Perfect Laser, they really took their own sweet time to mail it to me, so be prepared to wait a little longer as compared to other samples)

❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦


I almost died from happiness when all 3 of these came in the mailbox *o*


Ripple Mate Tea (2.5g) & Colostrum Milk Powder (25g) o.O (cow's milk wor...)

WHERE TO REDEEM: Go to Ripple Singapore's website at http://www.ripple.com.sg/en/ent/index.php, sign up as a Ripple Club Member and you can redeemed samples from the URL I've stated above.

WHERE TO REDEEM: If you want to give Ripple's Goat Milk a try, go to Ripple Singapore's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ripple.com.sg, click on the Free Sample link. Scroll down and fill in your details and Ripple Singapore will mail a free sample satchet of Goat's Milk to you.


Venus Beauty Facebook Giveaway Samples, lasted for a really short while though =(

• Trouble Clinic Acence Blemish Control Soothing Gel Cream x 1
  
• Trouble Clinic Acence Blemish Spot Solution Serum x 1
  
• Hydra-Full Solution Watermax Aqua Gel Cream x 1
  
• Multi Function All In One Snail Healing Cream x 1
  
• Skin Turnaround Pore Refine Silky Essence x 1
  
• Skin Recovery Night Repair Seruming Ampoule x 1
  

WHERE TO REDEEM: So far, it's a rather fast rdemption time-frame as I found out about it a few days before the giveaway ends, so too short a time to be able to post the details up here. However, go to Venus Beauty's Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/venusbeauty.sg, Like their page to be informed of future samples giveaways. (If you are still curious about the Facebook post that was giving away these Venus Beauty samples, you can read about it over at http://tinyurl.com/d8l5q62)


Avalon Japanese Fish Collagen: Lemon Flavor x 1, Blueberry Flavor x 1, Mango Flavor x 1

WHERE TO REDEEM: Redemption through Avalon Singapore's Facebook page was over, however, I was lucky enough to see an advertisement in Today newspaper where I just need to send in a SMS to redeem samples. If you are still curious to try your luck via the SMS sample request, here's what you need to do:

However, you may go to Avalon Singapore's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AvalonCollagen, Like their page to stay updated of future sample giveaways.

❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦


Somang's Camellia Hair Shampoo x 1 & Camellia's Hair Treatment x 1

I lucked out with this one actually. As I mentioned in one of my previous post, Monday = Samples in my Mailbox, I received the email on Monday morning and decided to head down to Causeway Point (Woodlands) Somang's counter to redeem my Eco Clinic Organic Hair Treatment Oil and the sweet ladies (they had China-accent when they spoke) at the Somang's counter told me the samples hadn't arrived yet. Instead, they gave me 2 samples satchets of their Camellia's Hair Series (Shampoo & Hair Treatment) to try out so I won't feel like I made a wasted trip to their outlet. Such sweet polite ladies!

❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦


The Sample Store Singapore


The Sample Store Singapore


NuTeen Acne Away Gel x 1, Herb Essence x 1, Dermalogica Clean Start Hit The Spot x 1


Premium Secret: Snail Vital Mucin Cream x 3 (Don't ask why, I received 3 satchet samples although I was just expecting 1. Lucked out again, I guess~)

WHERE TO REDEEM: Just go to The Sample Store Singapore website at The Sample Store Singapore, make an account using my referral link. You need to top up either S$10.00, S$30.00 or S$50.00 to your account and once the transferred amount has been verified, it will automatically showed up under Account Credits when you logged back in again.

(TIP: Send an email to payment@thesamplestore.sg informing them of your fund transfer and the Reference Number of the transfer, if applicable, as TSS apparently missed your account transfer notification.) Then read the quoted images below on how to redeem samples you want~

Source: http://thesamplestore.sg/blog/?page_id=3096

❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦

01 August 2012 Redemption & Mail


Some samples collection needed to be printed out via email and brought along for redemption *o*


As you have noticed on the right column under Vote for me ♥, I have taken part in TBS's Tea Tree Power Review Contest and all participants who submitted a review is eligible to collect 1 week supply of their Tea Tree Tester Kit comprising of:

• Tea Tree Facial Wash x 6 satchets (5ml each)
  
• Tea Tree Pore Minimiser x 2 satchets (1.5ml each)
  
• Tea Tree Oil x 1 vial (1ml)
  

TBS Redemption Voucher: Redeemed

Oh, don't forget to vote for me at https://apps.facebook.com/teatreepower/gallery.php. Contet ends on 17 August 2012 and each person can vote up to 5 times (using the smiley faces) each day.

It's literally been a b*tch trying to get my so-called FB friends to vote for me, been spamming, asking and begging on a daily basis and only 2 offered to vote for me everyday. The rest, have to be spoon fed -.-" I mean, come on, they need help in their game app request, I helped without being biased nor asked question or even retort about how I help need and no one cared. But when I need help, nobody bothered...


Neck & Decollete Collagen Mask x 1 & Gold Collagen Eye Pad x 1

WHERE TO REDEEM: Go to Academie of Aesthetics & Wellness Singapore' Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AcademieAesthetics, scroll down until you see a posting that dates 23 July. (or click this link instead: http://tinyurl.com/c2c2xc9)

TIP: If you choose to go down to their Paya Lebar office to self-collect, take the MRT and alight at MacPherson MRT Station as that is the nearest MRT station that is within walking distance. If you alight at Paya Lebar MRT Station by mistake, it's a short distance bus ride and all buses with double digits can reach this place.


Vaseline Perfect 10 (25ml)

Lucked out with this one too. Initial samples were fully redeemed, but I refused to give up and kept trying the site everyday. And finally, I got it!!

WHERE TO REDEEM: Go to Vaseline Perfect 10 website at http://www.perfect10skin.com.sg/, click on the link that says Get Your FREE Vaseline Perfect 10 25ml sample here!. When the next page loads, fill in your details and wait for an email that tells you to print the email for redemption & to redeem your sample at CozyCot's retail outlet at: 181 Orchard Road #02-24/25 Orchard Central


RoC Enydrial Lipbalm x 1 tube (4.8g)

WHERE TO REDEEM: Go to RoC Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/RocSingapore, click on RoC Shopping Bag.

For first time users, once the page has loaded (and you have Liked their page), click on the button that says Discover Today! (not the 'Discover' button that is beside 'My Shopping Bag' button!) and once the page has loaded. It should direct you to My Shopping Bag where you need to choose S$120 worth of RoC items into your RoC Shopping Bag.

Once done, just follow the remaining instructions and you should receive an email asking you to go down to Watson's @ Takashimaya Shopping Centre to receive it from the RoC Beauty Advisor by showing your Identity Card. (The Watson's outlet at Takashimaya S.C. is rather large and the RoC shelve/counter is actually near the cashier counters, just beside the La Roche Posay shelves)

❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦ ❦

02 August 2012 Redemption & Mail


Another 3 more big bulky envelopes on 02 August ♥ ♥ ♥


So... finally Japalang decided to send me my requested samples after I frantically hunt down my CozyCot samples for a review. And ironically, I received the Japalang ones on the same afternoon I did a review for Natural Aqua Gel Cure. And I requested for the Japalang ones earlier until I heard no breath nor whisper before I went to get the CozyCot ones..

WHERE TO REDEEM: Go to Japalang's website at http://www.japalang.sg/cure/Free_Cure_Samples.html, fill in the form and wait more than 2-3 weeks for it to arrive... Good luck to whoever's trying to redeem it. But I can just simply tell you ladies (and gentlemen) that it's better to just go out and buy a retail version size bottle instead cos it's so effective. No need to get samples for it!


LAC zhi® + Free VIP Membership giveaway. Haven't received my VIP membership card in the mail yet since I only went to redeem this on 01 August

WHERE TO REDEEM: Go to GNC Singapore's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/GNCsingapore/app_212829342081120, click on the link that says GNC Fan Giveaway!. Fill in the form to register and check your email for the redemption email, print and bring it down to any GNC outlets in Singapore to redeem.

(The staff who attended to me at the Bukit Panjang outlet is very efficient, polite, knowledgeable and may I say, convincing when I asked her about one of their placenta products, although I'm personally still not convinced in eating anyone or any animal's placenta at all..)


Brand's Innershine Prune Essence x 1 (42ml) + Free Pen (It's black ink, I tried)

WHERE TO REDEEM: If you have an account, go to The Sample Store Singapore at http://www.thesamplestore.sg/product/details/2627/0/name-brands-innershine-prune-plus-essence#top and grab a sample.


Nip + Fab Bust Fix x 1 (Retail Size @ 100ml)

WHERE TO REDEEM: I won this via Nip + Fab Singapore's Facebook giveaway contest and I didn't even know I won until I received a mail package from them. If you want to join in the giveaway, go to Nip + Fab's Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NipandFabSG and join in their various giveaway contest. Just follow the instructions given and good luck!

• Nip + Fab Bust Fix x 1
  Nip + Fab No Needle Serum Sample Satchet x 1
  

Got an additional Nip + Fab No Needle Serum Sample Satchet inside the box of Nip + Fab Bust Fix. So nice!

That's this week's sample haul and keep a lookout for tomorrow's Beauty Topic of the month. There will be a 3 days no-post period in order for readers to enjoy the post I've uploaded. Have fun and see you all again on 09 August, Singapore's National Day!!

Read More