Mizon Trouble Clinic All In One Snail Repair Cream Review

WHAT IS IT: Mizon Trouble Clinic All In One Snail Repair Cream

THE PRODUCT(S):

Mizon Trouble Clinic All In One Snail Repair Cream: Mucin, known for snail slime, has outstanding skin recovery effect. This ingredient restores skin swiftly and delivers various active ingredients deep in skin to reinforce skin’s own re-productivity. Containing E.G.F, which is a cell component which decreases starting from age 25, and this proceeds skin aging.

Snail repair eye cream containing E.G.F helps eye skin maintain elastic and bright. Niacinamide contained in Snail Repair Eye Cream is an announced factor for whitening, controls melanin produce around eye skin to make your skin bright and shiny. Tight Texture Increases Absorption and filtered snail slime’s own texture contained in eye cream. You can spread gently on skin and feel moisturized for longer. It helps to increase absorption not to leave sticky feeling.

This original snail mucus takes care of your all kind of skin problems in all-in-one skin care system on your first skin care step. It repairs tired and aging skin to be rejuvenating and it also the first protector of your naked skin.

Practically scent-free to my old but trusty nose, although I am starting to feel that snail mucin cream doesn't seem to be working on my acne and blemish scars anymore. If not, it just gives my skin bad side reaction from using them.

VERDICT: First of all, I cannot seem to "detect" any sort of scent to this product. Although on a side note, I do have to agree that if there's some sort of scent attached to any snail mucin cream, it would have been a turn-off to use in the first place. And on the other hand, if artificial scent(s) are used, it would have been kinda fake since we all know garden snails don't really smell like flowers in the first place.

To be honest, I never had any problems with acnes, pimples and the likes during my school years. It's as if my skin was invincible. It was only after I've had enough with the schooling system in Singapore and the fact that school teachers in my school just don't know their subjects when they taught. Anyways, after I left school and started a life of work that acnes and pimples started to really catch up with me. And currently, I'm having acne and pimple issues on a really regular basis. Almost to the point of frustration with my skin on a daily basis.

Despite the product being all slime-y (ish) since it's supposed to be snail mucin, it didn't feel yucky yet. As soon as I apply the product to my skin, it gets absorbed almost instantly with only a few gentle rubs and pats. And although the product is actually white with a thick consistency, I am happy and glad that it didn't leave a white residue nor a whitish layer on my skin after application at all. And the best part? I would probably have used it as a facial moisturizer if the product comes in a name-less or un-informative container/sample sachet as it feels almost similar to facial moisturizers. You know, the ease of absorption, feels lightweight, blah blah.

As I'm not someone who tend to smear products on a huge amount, so I tend to use products like these sparingly as I've already mentioned previously. Snail Mucin cream either doesn't work on my skin or it just gives me a bad reaction from using it. Sad to say, I managed to use this sample sachet for close to 3 weeks on a really sparingly basis and still no good news. Let's just say, I have to admit the fact that I have a special skin condition that doesn't react to any type of snail mucin cream products efficiently and well-enough at all. In fact, my skin felt better albeit the acne, pimple and blemish scars just looked pretty much the same before I use this product.

VERDICT: ✓

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Venus Beauty mailed out this sample including other beauty product samples to me during my birthday month last year. But I have a feeling that their physical stores should have sample sachets for the products they carry. And as usual, just because this product doesn't work for me doesn't mean it won't work for you.

Each and everyone's skin conditions, problems and woes may look/seem similar but could totally be different from one another. So, I would urge you to ask for a sample sachet to try out and judge/gauge for yourself. Let's just say, my skin doesn't have any type of reaction from any snail mucin cream anymore.

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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Mizon Body Shaping Program Active Slim Body Cool Wash Review

WHAT IS IT: Mizon Body Shaping Program Active Slim Body Cool Wash

THE PRODUCT(S):

Mizon Body Shaping Program Active Slim Body Cool Wash: Menthol decreases body temperature during shower, and cooling texture disassembles lipid. Rich bubbles absorb tiny dead skin cells fast while the rich moisture tightens the skin. Protects skin from the harmful effects of the environment.

Initially, I thought there were little exfoliating beads in it. Which meant I cannot use my shower fluff (Yeah, I call mine "fluff" cos it sounds more "nobel" for my poor over-abused shower puff). Turns out, I can still use my "fluff", the suds were actually generous when used alongside with my "fluff", and the scent was actually not that light as I thought, a perfect wake-me-up and it really is cooling on the skin.

VERDICT: First of all, let's take a look.. or rather let's talk about the scent. Despite trying to sniff at it with my usual vigorous gungho attitude, I found that the scent was a little faint. Not too strong, as too overpowering scents of menthol and/or mint could actually put off people from using it. Strong menthol/mint scent can actually be a little too intense on the nose for some of us, although on a personal level, I like my menthol and mint scent a little on the strong side. Because to me, it's like a wake-me-up scent in the morning when my mind refused to co-operate with my already awake body. Like my personal wacky quote, "The body is willing, the mind cannot be bothered."

As I personally adore exploring new shower gels, especially the ones that contains menthol or mint. We all know that menthol/mint scent typically tend to get a little "strong", which actually is a perfect shower gel to wake up your mind in the morning. Despite the scent being "strong" like I said, I find that it doesn't keep lingering on and making you feel nauseous at all. As soon as the shower gel gets lathered up and turned into sud(s) completely, the scent actually went down a notch. It sort of teases your nose once-in-a-while, while at the same time, you will definitely find yourself perking up and being a little more alert.

What I like is that, it actually gives this very intense but comfortable cooling and tingling sensation while I lather up the shower gel. And I have to admit, it's been quite a hassle lately, trying to find that perfect shower gel that actually promises, not only on the packaging, but also when used. So, imagine my surprise when this little unassuming tube of shower gel promised to decrease body temperature and literally does that in the shower. Which I luckily found out when using this for the first time on a hot and sunny afternoon. The heat was just too much for me to bear, but this shower gel did the "body cooling" trick for me, instead of having to wander around aimlessly under the ceiling fan.

And to reiterate this little fact about the skin on our body, the skin around our neck area tend to be thinner than the rest of the body, hence, you will feel that cooling and tingling sensation right on the neck area first. And that is exactly the spot where the much needed cooling feeling I wanted took place. My body temperature instantly decreases just like that, as compared to how it usually take longer by just standing in front of an electric fan or the air-conditioner, for instance.

And I feel that this is particular a good and useful body wash if you've had a tiring day and the last thing you want to do is climb into bed as soon as you reached home. But yet you couldn't, because you are hot, sweaty and smelly. However, if you don't mind not washing your hair for an extra day, just use this shower gel and you will step out of the bathroom feeling all fresh, clean and cooling and can climb into bed immediately and at the same time, managed to snooze comfortably for the entire night. This beats better than switching on the air-conditioner and it ends up getting too cold for comfort.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: I wish I need not step out of the bathroom ever, after using this body wash. I love the intense and cooling sensation. A lot.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: I got to redeemed this retail-sized bottle last November (2012). Let's just say it was a nerve-wrecking moment as the staffs at Venus Beauty AMK were a little too blur. Detailed explaining didn't seem to work on them, and it was only until I got home and feedback to Venus Beauty FB page that I knew my method was right. Anyways, the redemption period for this shower gel is over. But do not worry, as Venus Beauty is always constantly rewarding their fans almost on a monthly basis.

Go over to Venus Beauty Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/venusbeauty.sg, Like their page as a fan in order to be notified and updated of upcoming contests, giveaways and promotions. Don't miss it as they've recently had a random draw for a certain amount of lucky fans to receive their free retail-sized tube of Jimmy'z Skin Care Oil-Control Cleansing Foam. I was one of the lucky few, so I can assure you that Venus Beauty is not a hoax :)

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 contests that I've sourced out for you to join. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Samples Received/Redeemed: 04 Feb - 08 Feb 2013

Well, as usual, I almost didn't have anything to show and tell for today. But luckily, I remembered to "hound" Heinz Singapore offline to collect my ketchup. Firstly, I was a little "blind" and never saw the redemption details on the confirmation letter. And Heinz Singapore wasn't making it easy, as I need 2 redemption emails and only received one. They dilly dally and took a good 3 to 4 days to send redemption email #2.

I mean, whoever is responsible for the ketchup redemption can check and see their redemption list or something, right? So, even if I managed to "cheat" another redemption email, I still can only redeem my 8 bottles of Heinz ketchup that I won fair and square. And I thought I would email them on the day I received redemption email #2, which is on Thursday and arranged to collect my ketchup the next coming Monday. Which nobody replied to the email.

I tried sending back a PM and in reply got a brusque "Hi, we have made an important announcement regarding prize collection. You can collect your prizes before or on 8th February. Please inform the agency about the day and time you are going to collect your prizes. Thanks." Apparently, it seems like it will hurt them a little to just simply include in the PM that redemption details are on the redemption email itself..

Anyway, I managed to find my way to the address which is just behind Bugis Junction. At least I promised I would be there by 12 noon in the event I cannot find the place and the person who let me redeemed my prize didn't ask something that sounds like "But you said you are coming at 12 noon". Yep, that was what I encountered when I previously redeemed my Palmer's lipbalm from a Christmas Facebook contest. But I have to admit, the answer picked to win the Heinzology #23's answer was a tad... lame.

And yes, I won the Heinzology #10 and Heinzology #17. This brings it to a good 8 bottles that I can save money on :)

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Heinzology contest is over. However, be a fan of Heinz Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/iloveheinz to be updated and notified of latest and up-coming contests, promotions and giveaways.

So, it was actually a lazy afternoon and out of the blue, Venus Beauty had a new status update asking fans to name 1 Venus Beauty branch that they know of. I swear I was already fast enough and thought that I was at least the first 3 commentors. Turns out, there were more hardcore people trolling their wall for any signs of freebies and I was luckily within the first 11 to comment, with a full Venus Beauty branch address, mind you. And no doubt, a particular person copy + paste which led to a few more answers similar to my own.

Honestly, a friendly advice from me. Less of the copy + paste and trying to imitate me, more of your own originality. Don't hate me just because I tend to write long-winded, is precise and detailed, hate yourself cos you cannot be bothered to try :)

Anyway, I am a little sure the delivery for our sunblock was delayed, due to 2 random commentors within the first 11 to actually went poof after commenting. And honestly, I never understand people who joined Facebook contests, especially the ones that ask for answers in the comment boxes. If there's no deadline or any sort stated, it is definitely best to keep track of it at least once or twice a day. But no, 2 of them decided to let the whole world hunt them down on Venus Beauty facebook as they need our mailing address before they can mail out our prizes.

My advice? If you cannot be bothered to keep track of a page after joining contests, maybe you shouldn't be joining them at all. I personally don't think it's nice to have 9 other people's prizes being held up, due to 2 person not being bothered to check for results. I understand if you personally think and felt you won't have any luck at contests, but still, if you join, do at least have the decency and common sense not to hold up other people or winners because of your "bo chup-ness"..

After screwing off the lid, there's actually another foil layer to prevent bacteria and germs from "creeping" in. Yay!

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Contest was over. However, be a fan of Venus Beauty Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/venusbeauty.sg in order to be notified and updated on free retail-size giveaways, impromptu contests and so on :)

Was feeling a little confused when I recevied this package, since there doesn't seem to have any indication where it could came from.

Well, opened it up and realized these were the free Red Packets I requested from UOB Singapore's Facebook page. These are actually car decals, too bad I don't have a car to slap them on. On the other hand, if I were to casually remarked that I want a car, someone's bound to reply with "What for! You got your left kah and your right kah!". Thank you Brian Richmond for the "kah" a.k.a car joke inspiration :P

Actually, each person is entitled to redeem once, which makes it 2 red packets and 1 car decal each. Didn't realize my brother requested his too lol Here's the front of it.

And here's the back of the Red Packet.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: None. The redemption is over. Instead of X amount of period, it's actually limited to the first few hundred or thousand, I kinda forgot the amount. But it's "While Stocks Lasts!"

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 contests that I've sourced out for you to join. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Mizon Trouble Clinic Acence Blemish Control Soothing Gel Cream Review

WHAT IS IT: Mizon Trouble Clinic Acence Blemish Control Soothing Gel Cream

THE PRODUCT(S):

Mizon Trouble Clinic Acence Blemish Control Soothing Gel Cream: Supplies troubled skin with abundant moisture which contains patented acne treatment ingredients, which balances skin oil and moisture and prevents skin from becoming sensitive and dry. It absorbs easily without stickiness.

Cleanliness is the first step for preventing troubles. ACNATURAL FORMULA includes unique patent ingredients which is very effective for trouble relief and prevents troubles and protects skin from becoming sensitive by irritation. It forms a skin-protecting film that prevents more skin troubles.

This product is a cloudy color with the consistency of gel that is almost watery/runny, but yet easy to apply without spills nor fuss. Can't really put a finger to exactly what type of scent it reminds me of, but I am definitely detecting a scent no doubt.

VERDICT: So, after a somewhat thorough/detailed check on Google for an English version of this product, I managed to find out that this Soothing Gel Cream contains active ingredients that includes Hyaluronic Acid, Lemon Extract and Raspberry Extract among others (List of detailed active ingredients), so I was actually anticipating a somewhat close to sweet scent. Despite there being some sort of scent to this product, I just cannot exactly pinpoint what type of scent it is. But, knowing that the scent isn't overpowering or make you nauseous is actually a good thing. Even if products that are meant for acne and blemish are scented/perfumed, it shouldn't be too heavy to the point it puts you off into even trying it. So, the scent for this product is just right.

For the product itself, the color is actually cloudy/milky and the consistency of this soothing gel cream is more gel-based than cream-based. And we all know that gel-based cream are actually much better, in terms of applying it on our pesky acne spots. Creams seemed too rich for a pimple that is close to the point of ripening or has already ripened, and extra care must be taken from that particular stage onward to ensure that the has-been acne won't get too serious to the point of scarring.

Personally, I like that when I applied this Soothing Gel Cream on my blemish scars and post-acne spot, it actually leaves a cooling sensation that helps soothe the pain from acne. Because it is gel-based, I find that it is easy to apply onto my acne and blemish spots without spills nor fuss encountered. And it doesn't make my pores feel anymore clogged too. And hours after application, my face doesn't feel sticky nor look oily at all, which I am glad for.

As this product has Ivy Extract that reduces swelling caused by acne, I find that it actually does what the ingredient promised. Just 1 day after using this, my post-acne actually look less red than before and the swelling looks slightly more subsided than before. And with Lemon Extract, I positively sure that my blemish scars looks a little more fainter than before. No doubt, with extended use, this product can definitely help reduce my blemish scars and at the same time, help soothe my red angry looking acne spots, even though it's stated specifically that it's for "Blemish Control".

And luckily, despite transferring the product from sachet to reusable container, I am happy to announce that the color didn't change nor did the consistency and texture of this product suffered at all, as compared to the previous Mizon Acence Blemish Spot Solution Serum, which practically made me feel a little hesitant about trying this Soothing Gel Cream. And I dare say it is working slightly better than the TBS Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion.

VERDICT: ✓✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Surprisingly, this is one of the few Korean products that seems to work for me.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: If you or your friends were tagged, shared or invited to like Venus Beauty's Facebook page around early August, you would have already got to redeemed this sample from them.

However, it's still not too late to be a fan of Venus Beauty Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/venusbeauty.sg to be notified of current and upcoming promotions that are exclusive to Venus Beauty fans. Really dedicated service from the personnel in-charge of their Facebook page too!!

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 contests that I've sourced out for you to join. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Mizon Trouble Clinic Acence Blemish Spot Solution Serum Review

WHAT IS IT: Mizon Trouble Clinic Acence Blemish Spot Solution Serum

THE PRODUCT(S):

Mizon Trouble Clinic Acence Blemish Spot Solution Serum: Serum to prevent rashes applied directly to the area of ​​inflammation. Thanks to the unique patented ingredients and your own formula (Acnatural Formula) serum Mizon Acence Blemish spot solution serum with constant use interrupts during chronic inflammation and helps get rid of acne.

Whey has the function of sebum control, enabling production to normalize skin zhira. Post application instantly soothes irritated skin, bringing relief. Blocks the inflammatory process caused by bacteria, greatly reduces the redness, swelling, and the appearance of inflammatory elements.

I didn't detect any type of scent from this product. When I transferred this product to a reusable pot, the solution was clear, however, less than a few days later, the color went from transparent/clear to cloudy. Not exactly sure if this is supposed to happen.

VERDICT: This product doesn't seem to have any type of scent or fragrance at all, unlike the other Mizon products I have been reviewing lately. And this could be a good thing as acne is actually troublesome and scented/perfumed products meant for acne woes might aggravate the acne problem we already have on our skin. Maybe the manufacturers in charge of this product actually thought of this issue and thus ensure that this product isn't scented nor perfumed in any way. Although I am sure that the ingredients that went into this product should at least give it some sort of related scent.

The product itself when transferred from sample sachet to reusable container turns out clear with a consistency that is close to runny. However, a few days later, the product went from transparent to a light milky color. And get this, I didn't purposely did anything to make it go from transparent to milky. Nope, it was all the product on it's own which I never did any type of weird experiments nor intervention. And on top of that, the product went from somewhat runny/watery to suddenly coagulated as well. And I didn't even get to finish the entire sample sachet at all.

Despite that weird scenario, I like the fact that this product when applied on my acne spots didn't try to aggravate my acne at all. However, as this product is meant mostly for blemish spot clearing, I took care to ensure that my old acne and blemish scars are taken care of with this product. Luckily, it didn't give me more acne when used but yet, it didn't made my acne and blemish scars fade at all. Thinking that just from one day of usage won't let me see any different, I dutifully applied it for another 2 more days before the product went from transparent to milky.

Maybe this is yet another product that can only guarantee results when used long-term, although I am just simply glad that it didn't make my pores feel clogged nor give me more acne-related problems when using it. Although it is definitely a little creepy to see this product's color and consistency changed in less than half a week's time. Or it could be because it was exposed to the surrounnding and weather air on and off which resulted in that change. And I have to be honest that this is really the first time a acne/blemish related product had such a change in color and consistency.

And after the 4th day of using, this product just practically looks dried up in my reusable pot up to the point I am feeling a little freaked out in using something which it's color and consistency has suddenly changed drastically with no apparent reason. I really dread to know what will happen if I bought the actual retail size version if I didn't get this sample to try out. The entire big bottle turning cloudy and looking like dried up glue, ack!

VERDICT: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: This product doesn't make my pores feel clogged, but the weird change in it makes me spooked.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: If you or your friends were tagged, shared or invited to like Venus Beauty's Facebook page around early August, you would have already got to redeemed this sample from them.

However, it's still not too late to be a fan of Venus Beauty Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/venusbeauty.sg to be notified of current and upcoming promotions that are exclusive to Venus Beauty fans. Really dedicated service from the personnel in-charge of their Facebook page too!!

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 contests that I've sourced out for you to join. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Mizon Hydra-Full Solution Watermax Aqua Gel Cream Review

WHAT IS IT: Mizon Hydra-Full Solution Watermax Aqua Gel Cream

THE PRODUCT(S):

Mizon Hydra-Full Solution Watermax Aqua Gel Cream: Differentiated in combination of water which is the most important process of making moisturizing cream. Provides outstanding moisturizing and relieving effect combining alaska glacial water, deep sea water, hita heaven water, and birch sap all together.

Gel-type light texture with refreshing feeling delivers cooling effect as soon as it touches skin. Controlling unbalanced skin temperature seen if the balance is broken. Rich moisturizing cream with oil included, can cause trouble for oily and complexity skin type. Watermax aqua gel cream absorbed quickly and does not burden much on skin to fully fill with moisture. Rough and sensitive vegetable active ingredients relieve skin and prevent various external skin protection

This is a very light coral-blue/emerald gel that can be used in place of your regular facial moisturizer. It's smooth and gentle, and glides easily onto my skin. And I like the fact that as soon as this product touches my skin, there's a cooling sensation that follows, despite knowing that I never left this sample in the fridge prior to using it.

VERDICT: First of all, the scent actually reminds me of the Biotherm Aquasource 24h Deep Hydration Replenishing Gel. If you had empty out the contents of this Mizon Hydra-Full Solution Watermax Aqua Gel Cream into a re-usable pot/container and give it to me without telling me exactly what it is, I could have been mistaken to the point I might not have a clue. Which makes me wonder if the similarity on the scent was intentional or just plain coincidence?

This gel cream is actually a light coral-blue/emerald color and the consistency is almost close to watery/runny, which makes it really ideal for someone who has oily or combination skin types. It's smooth, gentle, easily spread and absorbed into the skin without much hassle. I'm sure by now, we all should be aware that no matter how dry or oily our skin is, we still need to moisturize it no matter what. Moisturizing dry skin ensures the skin won't crack, while moisturizing oily skin ensures that our skin won't produce excess sebum to compensate for lack of moisture.

I like the little fact that after application, my skin doesn't feel sticky at all when compared to other gel-based facial moisturizers. It glides on so smoothly and easily and because it is gel-based, the absorption is actually pretty fast, as far as I can tell. It feels like my skin is being quenched right from the surface, right from the first time I applied it on. It's almost like the gel cream practically melts into my skin upon the very first contact, it feels almost magical.

However, here's the bad part of it. Despite being a gel-based moisturizer, I felt that this product is a little too rich for my skintype. Hours after applying this, my face felt and looked oily, although it isn't that bad when I looked into the mirror. And on the plus side, I didn't see any acne showing up without warning which I gladfully can thank my lucky stars for that. Other moisturizers with the same consistency and promises tend to leave my face feeling and looking oily with an extra sheen to it.

And I thought gel-based creams such as this should be literally lightweight in terms of absorption, which ultimately prevents excess sebum and oil shine. This product is probably much more suitable for someone with dry to normal skin type, which I thought is a shame since I love the scent, texture and consistency of this gel cream. I wonder if there will be improved versions that actually suit oily facial skin types like me in the near future, as this is definitely one product I will be looking forward to purchase, if not my face doesn't look over-glossy with sebum.

VERDICT: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: Better suited for dry to normal skin types than for oily or combination skin types.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: If you or your friends were tagged, shared or invited to like Venus Beauty's Facebook page around early August, you would have already got to redeemed this sample from them.

However, it's still not too late to be a fan of Venus Beauty Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/venusbeauty.sg to be notified of current and upcoming promotions that are exclusive to Venus Beauty fans. Really dedicated service from the personnel in-charge of their Facebook page too!!

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 contests that I've sourced out for you to join. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Mizon Multi Function Formula All in One Snail Healing Cream Review

WHAT IS IT: Mizon Multi Function Formula All in One Snail Healing Cream

THE PRODUCT(S):

Mizon Multi Function Formula All in One Snail Healing Cream: 92% of snail extracts repairs fine scars from skin troubles and wrinkles. Various plant extracts help skin to keep healthy by rich moisturizing, nourishing, and protecting skin. Regenerate your skin, the same way snails regenerate their own shell.

Highly recommended for acne scars, sensitive and tired skin due to environmental factors, skin pores losing elasticity, uneven dark skin tone, irritated skin from shaving or skin clinic procedures and increasing fine wrinkles from losing moisture and elasticity.

This product is actually a white gel-based moisturizer that actually absorbs rather quick into the skin.

VERDICT: Well, as the title has mentioned, this is a Snail Healing Cream, hence I can understand how some of us may think that it is going to be a smelly product. Heck, anything that has "Snail" and "Cream" in one sentence are probably going to smell bad. I don't blame you as I have this misconception as well. And I unfortunately had the bad experience of a nasty school-mate (same school, different class but same level) who kept trying to smash a poor random snail into my face during our Saturday ECA session, which also unfortunately was the "Gardening Club". That poor traumatized snail smelled strongly of earth and grass back then, and poor traumatized me thought anything and everything snail-related smelled that way too.

Anyways, I personally was a little hesitant as well since it involves a little something from snails. And at the same time, snail cream are suddenly the rage all over the world, with practically almost everyone claiming that it works really well. What I can assure is that this product doesn't have any snail scent to it. In fact, it's almost a scent-free / perfume-free moisturizer no matter how hard or how many times I've been trying to sniff out a scent from it. And at the same time, I'm also glad Venus Beauty were giving these samples away in August as we can actually have a small sachet to try out, without having to feel gross about buying a big pot of snail cream and worrying that it might smell bad, just for the sole reason of acne.

It's a white color gel-based moisturizer. Despite looking all white and creamy, it is definitely more towards gel-based which also makes it easier to apply and absorbed into our skin. Heavy facial creams are mostly suitable for users who have very dry skin to normal skin as it's more beneficial for their skin absorption, elasticity, moisture level and whatnot. But still, gel-based moisturizers are definitely easy on the skin, whether the time needed to apply or how long it takes to get absorbed.

What I personally like about this Mizon Multi Function Formula All in One Snail Healing Cream is that it doesn't leave a sticky feeling or residue on my face. Remember the previous sample review I did on the Mizon Skin Recovery Night Repair Seruming Ampoule? I can probably thank my lucky stars that this is the next Mizon sample I was reviewing as the Night Repair Seruming Ampoule gave me a brand new pimple on my chin. And what better time to put a "snail cream" to the test when acne and blemish scars are involved?

I like the fact that this product actually lessen the redness of the pimple I unfortunately got. I'm sure we all know how red, angry, painful and irritated acne spots gets after the pus are accidentally or intentionally squeezed out. So, it actually does help to lessen the redness, the size of the pimple. Almost reducing it to the size of a pin with dedicated nightly use. Unfortunately, I felt that this snail cream did only just that. Despite close to a week after my angry pimple has surfaced and subsided, there's still a less angry looking red dot left on my chin area. And my old acne and blemish scars pretty much look the same despite dutifully aplying on a nightly basis.

I am guessing that this is one of those products that you have to use long-term in order to see the benefits it promised and guarantees, instead of seeing results in just under 1 week's usage. Although the good thing about this product is that my face didn't look greasy nor oily hours after application, and neither did I wake up from a night's sleep to a very oily looking face too. This can be used without toner on it's own, as I've found out after a few night's of cheating by not using a facial toner.

VERDICT: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: It's rather hard to really be able to judge/gauge it's effectiveness with almost 1 week's worth of usage.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: If you or your friends were tagged, shared or invited to like Venus Beauty's Facebook page around early August, you would have already got to redeemed this sample from them.

However, it's still not too late to be a fan of Venus Beauty Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/venusbeauty.sg to be notified of current and upcoming promotions that are exclusive to Venus Beauty fans. Really dedicated service from the personnel in-charge of their Facebook page too!!

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 contests that I've sourced out for you to join. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Mizon Skin Recovery Night Repair Seruming Ampoule Review

WHAT IS IT: Mizon Skin Recovery Night Repair Seruming Ampoule

THE PRODUCT(S):

Mizon Skin Recovery Night Repair Seruming Ampoule: Anti-Aging cosmetic with Lathyrus japonicas wild extract. Patented Natto gum helps intensive anti-aging to regenerate skin. Rosemary leaf, aloe vera and lavender flower extract to reinforce skin protection film. Lecithin raises regenerating ability from wrinkles, stress, and harmful environments to make your skin tone vivid. It is a night exclusive regenerating ampoule which retrieves original skin status.

Peptide, which is good for skin elasticity, and antioxidants, Vitamin E, to help your skin elastic, young, and vivid. Cornus, and birch sap improve moisturizing ability and elasticity of skin. You do not even need a moisturizer and regeneration mask. KFDA notified ingredients, adenosine and Niacinamide, included. Cares fine wrinkles to prevent and delay early aging. Gives smooth skin texture. Impedes melanin synthesis for intensive whitening care. Makes your skin bright and clear to retrieve vividness of your complexion.

This product is a very light yellowish in color, with the consistency towards watery/runny that is consistent with gel-based ampoule. The scent is really light, kinda hard to pinpoint exactly what it smells like.

VERDICT: Firstly, the scent is actually really faint, almost to the point of being a scent-free or perfume-free skin ampoule. Despite the ingredient list listing rosemary leaf, aloe vera and lavender flower extract, I definitely did not detect any type of scent that reflects the 3 ingredients that I have stated out. So, for those of us who might have sensitive skin that cannot tolerate scented or perfumed skincare products, this could actually be a blessing indeed. Scent-free or perfume-free is technically good, no matter how you look at it.

For example, lavender can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Other essential oils can cause irritation, rashes, blotches or itchy skin. Stronger essential oils which may be problematic for some sensitive skin types include peppermint, menthol, and eucalyptus and tea tree oil. Hydrosols, which are less concentrated than full strength essential oils, may be more suitable for sensitive skin. These include rose hydrosol and lavender hydrosol. While these products still contain a “natural” fragrance, they may be gentler on the skin.

As for the color of this ampoule, it is actually a very very light yellowish. It's like one moment, you see a faint yellowish color and the next, it suddenly looks clear. Not exactly sure if this ampoule is supposed to be colorless or not. The consistency despite the light yellowish tint that looks close to being a facial oil, is actually slightly runny/watery, almost comparable to being gel-based. And we all know that no matter what type of skin type we have, we can all agree on the little fact that gel-based skin moisturizers are practically much easily absorbed into our skin, whether applied day or night.

As my own skin type is more towards the oily version, I personally find that it is easily spreadable on my skin without having my pores feel clogged. It is also smooth and glides easily without any fuss nor spills, which is a good thing too. And what's more, I like that this ampoule is absorbed easily into my skin, without the regular/usual sticky feeling I encountered too. As this ampoule is geared more towards anti-aging prevention, the best time to actually apply it will be in the evening/night time.

Besides the anti-aging function, this product is also good for skin renewal and whitening. Which both I did not saw, felt nor encounter despite dutifully using it for a couple of nights already. I woke up in the morning as usual, and my skin didn't look any whiter, especially on my blemish scars which pretty much looks the same before I applied this. As for skin renewal, I can't really give this a thumbs-up.

Prior to using this, the area around my chin (which is prone to acne flares) was actually acne-free and looking pretty decent. Towards the 2nd night of using this, I noticed a brand new pimple surfacing it's red angry self which actually hurts to the point where I had to grab an ice-cube and pressed it onto the acne spot just to relieve the redness and pain I was experiencing. If skin renewal is the equivalent of getting a new pimple, then I am so totally out of here..

VERDICT: ✓

WHAT I THINK: Skin renewal is not the equivalent of getting a pimple to sprout before I see my skin looking better than before.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: If you or your friends were tagged, shared or invited to like Venus Beauty's Facebook page around early August, you would have already got to redeemed this sample from them.

However, it's still not too late to be a fan of Venus Beauty Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/venusbeauty.sg to be notified of current and upcoming promotions that are exclusive to Venus Beauty fans. Really dedicated service from the personnel in-charge of their Facebook page too!!

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 contests that I've sourced out for you to join. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Mizon Skin Turnaround Pore Refine Silky Essence Review

WHAT IS IT: Mizon Skin Turnaround Pore Refine Silky Essence

THE PRODUCT(S):

Mizon Skin Turnaround Pore Refine Silky Essence: Secret Velvet Treatment Mysterious silky essence accomplishing smooth skin which looks just like natural with pore management and sebum control effect. Green tea, corni, and lotus extract which intensively controls pores will prevent the pores from widening because of sebum secretion.

It's actually gel-based, and is white in color. And it has a pleasant scent to it too. This is to be used as a facial essence, similar to a facial moisturizer. To be applied on after using your regular facial toner. It can be used as a primer before make-up to ensure a smooth texture which makes applying make-up much easier.

VERDICT: First of all, the scent!! This actually has a pleasant scent to it, considering that it has green tea, corni and lotus extract. So, I was definitely gunning on this product to smell at least close to heavenly no matter what. And at the same time, it is close to a gel-based facial moisturizer/pre make-up primer. And hence, it is rather nice to apply on my skin as it is so smooth and literally silky to the skin. It gets absorbed into my skin rather fast, as compared to similar brand products that has the word or phrase "silky" and "essence".

As this was given generously to interested fans of Venus Beauty on their Facebook page around the start of August when Venus Beauty's presence on Facebook was just starting to get a foothold. And this sample was one of those facial product samples Venus Beauty wants their fans to grab hold of before stocks ran out. And thereafter, almost all Venus Beauty fans are constantly rewarded with goodies and freebies at least once or twice a month up till now. We all have to wait for the current V-Promotion to end before we get to know what's going to come up next.

This sample is actually enough for close to 1 week's usage, provided if you apply a really thin layer on your face. Whether you have dry, sensitive, oily or combination skin, it doesn't matter. Although it's best to apply skin moisturizer/serum, it doesn't mean you have to scoop out a huge amount. Just a little can go a long way, especially when samples are concerned. So, I managed to use this for close to a week already and here's what I think.

Like I had previously mentioned, it's actually smooth and silky when this essence comes into contact with your skin, and personally for me, it actually gets absorbed rather fast and easy. Despite the essence looking all white and cream-based, it's definitely more towards gel-based judging from how it gets absorbed into my skin without much difficulty. However, as I applied this on after my evening shower, so I had the good luck to wait and see what are the after-effects from using this. And it is giving me mixed expectations.

Just less than a few hours after applying this, my face feels rather "heavy". And a quick swipe of my face with my (clean) fingers proved that sebum flow was close to heavy. It's actually been a while since I saw a layer of sebum on my fingers, so naturally, I decided to take a peek at the mirror. But then, here's where the weird thing happens. Despite seeing so much sebum on my fingers, my face doesn't look very oily nor greasy at all. Weird huh?

We all know that if a quick swipe on our face with our fingers, or even using a piece of facial oil blotters will transfer facial sebum from our face to whatever we use. And naturally, we would more or less guessed how much facial sebum our facial pores will have secrete by looking at our fingers or oil blotters without even looking at the mirror. But still, I was glad I took a peek at the mirror and instantly amused at what I saw. Excess sebum on my fingers, but non-oily/greasy face.

I thought it could have been weather related (Remember, Singapore is a hot and humid country, whether it's day or night), so I continued using this for another few more nights. But from the second night onward, the facial sebum seems a little more controlled. No excessive facial sebum detected, felt nor seen when I did my nightly "finger-swipe-on-my-face" activity. Which made me wonder if it was actually my skin trying to adjust to this product, hence the excessive sebum I got on the first use.

And as this product promises to "intensively controls pores, and will prevent pores from widening because of sebum secretion". The pores on my face looks pretty much the same, it didn't look minimized at any point if this product's main aim is to somehow minimized our pores. And for the pores on my nose, it does look controlled though. Prior to using this, I can see visible globs of sebum on my nose at night. But after using this, the pores on my nose doesn't feel tightened nor minimized. Yet, the sebum flow from the pores of my nose are visibly reduced.

If only everyone had at least 2 sample sachets instead of one, it may help us to decide if this product is one that should be considered and bought or just plain ignored due to the way it works.

VERDICT: ✓✓

WHAT I THINK: This product may had been a little rich for my skin, considering that the 1st time I used it, I had excess sebum flow. Which ultimately gets controlled, this is a rather "confusing" product through and through.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: If you or your friends were tagged, shared or invited to like Venus Beauty's Facebook page around early August, you would have already got to redeemed this sample from them.

However, it's still not too late to be a fan of Venus Beauty Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/venusbeauty.sg to be notified of current and upcoming promotions that are exclusive to Venus Beauty fans. Really dedicated service from the personnel in-charge of their Facebook page too!!

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 contests that I've sourced out for you to join. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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Samples Received/Redeemed: 26 Nov - 30 Nov 2012

And now, it's time for another episode of Samples Received & Redeemed. I am really glad to say this has been a almost rewarding week, in terms of samples redemption. 5 items, which meant a total of i item received per day for the entire week. Could have had a 6th item, but then, can't blame staffs who misunderstood instructions -_-

With the exception of the Venus Beauty one in which I was a little too excited. Should have asked and clarified before going down to AMK so soon, but still, I am definitely glad that the issue has been resolved and fans of Venus Beauty should not have any problems redeeming their goodies from Monday onwards ;) As apparently, the staffs at Venus Beauty AMK misunderstood instructions and I was correct. But not before hogging a little attention from some random dude who probably thought I was having a cat-fight with the outlet staffs instead. (Yeah, if you're the dude in a dark green T-shirt inside AMK's Venus Beauty outlet at around 10:50am, I'm talking about you. Sorry to disappoint, but there's no fighting that you probably was expecting to watch and gossip about.)

Basically, there's nowhere on Venus Beauty wall post that states that customers with the NOPS Silky Repair Hair Shampoo bottle is eligible to redeem only 1 item. Technically, the wall post stated that if you haven't finished using the shampoo, you can flash (and then keep) the bottle and pay S$9.90 to buy a NOPS Pink Clay Brightening Mask. But if you surrender your empty shampoo bottle (in which you cannot keep it), you can get a Mizon Active Slim Body Cool Wash for free.

This simply meant that our shampoo bottle works both ways, no matter how you look at it. Only to have the outlet staffs insist that if I flashed the shampoo bottle, they have to take the bottle back. So correct me if I am wrong, if I am a male flasher who runs around flashing women, do my victims keep something from me, the flasher, as a "souvenir"? I don't think so, and this shows that the outlet staffs are definitely ignorant of the word "flash". What's worst is that, despite trying to explain to them what "flash" meant ("Flash" meant I show you the bottle and I will still want it back cos it's un-finished), they insist that flashing the bottle meant they take the bottle back. And throughout all these, none of the 2 staffs that attended to me and gave me a warped version and re-interpretation of the word "flash" bothered to actually try and call their main office and re-confirmed or checked with the relevant office staff. (I've worked in F&B and regular retail positions, so I know if there's any discrepancies or that certain instructions are vague, the first thing I should do is to call and hunt down a relevant person who is more clear on the instructions. Not insist my own interpretation is correct..)

I knew I was right that I can get 2 items, 1 free and the other which I pay S$9.90 for, so as soon as I reached home, the first thing I did was to go to Venus Beauty's facebook page and clarified with them. Asked the same questions twice and both times, I was still proven correct by whoever is manning the page, it was the staff's mistake all along. It was rather disappointing that I came home with 1 item, instead of 2. So, I was asking if there's any way I can get a redemption letter of some sort to get the NOPS Pink Clay Brightening Mask at S$9.90. Even if they are selling it cheap, they are still earning our money after all. Turns out, previous redemptions that includes redeeming with redemption letters were frowned upon due to "saving the environment" outcry. I say it's because some fans don't have a printer at all.

Understandable if you are a teenger, but definitely not understandable if you are already a working adult who actually have a pc or laptop to log onto Venus Beauty's Facebook page and yet do not have a decent printer to print out a redemption letter. What I don't understand is that, a redemption letter is a redemption letter. There's no need to buy a fancy S$5000+ printer with all the awesome stuffs in it when you could have bought one that probably cost less than S$200 that lets you decently print. Said people with no printers at home and yet have "state-of-the-art" laptops are probably the ones who have no qualms about logging into Facebook in the middle of work, which meant they could have simply go for lunch the earliest in order to come back to their workplace the first/earliest/quickest, and secretly but quickly print the redemption letter out. (Next time if Venus Beauty said they cannot issue redemption letters, you know you can safely blame it on the folks who insist they do not have a printer at home.)

Enough of my yakking now, here's a look at the goodies I've got in the past week.

Well, unmarked envelope from Rachel K Cosmetics. If you are a regular sample redeemer, you should probably be aware of the apps used by Hada Labo and Rachel K, including some other companies. They use the same type of app. This means that if you have previously redeemed a sample from them, the app will inform you that:

Oops, you have redeemed this sample before. You can share and invite your friends to redeem one too!

But if there's something new to be redeemed, that message will not show. Instead, what you see are the necessary empty boxes for you to fill out your name, mailing address, email address, etc to redeem a sample.

I still remember the last sample I redeemed from Rachel K was the Collagen + Lotus Stem Cell Hydrogel Mask. So, as soon as I realized I can fill up my information again, it just simply meant that there's a new sample up for grabs. It's called Swiss Apple Stem Cell Technology, which is actually a Day Cream.

Excitedly, I quickly began spamming everyone I know who is interested in getting one. But I doubt anyone believed because I didn't state exactly what type of sample ^^; (I know, it's my fault this time, too excited and forgot to indicate the name of the sample). But as soon as I received this in my mail, I quickly snapped a photo, uploaded and shared to my Facebook account and my Facebook page in order to get everyone to redeem their sample fast fast!

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Go over to Rachel K Cosmetics Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Rachelkcosmetics, Like their page. Next, click on Free Sample!, fill in your details and wait for the sample to be delivered to your house/mailbox.

Envelope stated that it's from Invida Group and I really had no idea what it was. Until I started gently pressing the envelope and realized there's something soft yet squishy in there. I took a wild guess and hope it's from Papulex and well, I was correct lol

It was also another one of those "I-was-playing-games-on-Facebook" day when I saw this on the right side, where all the Facebook advertisements are shown. Needless to say, I clicked on it and realized it's free sample(s). And hurriedly spam everyone to get theirs too!!

Samples consist of:

• Papulex Moussant Soap free cleansing gel x 2 (5ml each)
• Papulex Oil-free Cream [For acne prone skin] x 2 (5ml each)
• A booklet explaining acne cause, how to treat acne

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: First of all, go over to Papulex Asia Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PapulexAsia, Like their page. Next, click on Papulex Free Sample and fill in a short question, which is relatively easy. The answers to the question are: Nicotinamide, EU-Patented ABA and Zinc PCA.

Once you have checked the answer boxes and fill in your details, just sit back and wait for the samples to show up in your mailbox.

So, I suddenly received an envelope from Venus Beauty near the end of the week. I was rather surprised and thought, "Oh noes! Did I do something wrong??" But I am insistent I did not! I didn't "tackle" them unless they have free things to give away xD

The back of the envelope said "SURPRISE! =)" and I thought, must be some wonderful B-Day present. I hope I am right ^^

I opened up the small blue envelope with loads of Korean text imprinted with the word Mizon and these are the goodies I got:

• Returning Starfish Cream x 1
• Trouble Clinic All In One Snail Repair Cream x 1
• Multi Function Formula Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule x 1
• Original Skin Energy Placenta 45 x 1
• Original Skin Energy Peptide 500 x 1

All I can say is, I wub wub wub you Venus Beauty!!

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: For starters, I did not redeem this anywhere on Venus Beauty Facebook page. However, I recommend you to Like their page to be informed to giveaways, samples, freebie redemption that are constantly brought forth to reward their fans. I'm definitely guessing this sample pack is a B-day present somehow xD

So, finally Lab Series mail arrived. This was a rather impromptu sample request that Lab Series posted on their wall. I know I spammed everyone and updated on my Facebook page as soon as I am aware of it. But if you happened not to know it, then I'm sorry to inform you that this particular sample giveaway is over for a month or 2 already.

And this is why you must be a fan of my Facebook page, so you can be updated as soon as new sample redemptions are up ^^
So, the samples in these impromptu sampling exercise are:

• Daily Renewing Cleanser x 2 (5ml each)
• Skin Recharging Water Lotion x 2 (7ml each)

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Be a fan of Lab Series Singapore Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LabSeriesSingapore in order to be informed of free samples, impromptu sampling exercise.

Sampling exercise for this sample is over, however, if you are a fan of my Facebook page, you should be informed of it as soon as I post it up :)

So, Venus Beauty updated the latest V-Promotion on Thursday. And excited old me decided to go the very next day on Friday, without first checking to ensure that their outlet staffs are fully aware of the redemption mechanics. So, I've only got a Body Wash to show and tell *cries nonetheless* But anyway, save the box as soon as you redeemed this Body Wash, who knows we might need to return it in order to exchange for another goodie from them :D

Mizon Active Slim Body Cool Wash x 1 (200ml). I forgot to include a photo of the cap off, but I assure you that it's foil-sealed to ensure nothing leaks out while you are on your way home after redemption or going on with more sample redemption or even window-shopping. Just remember not to throw the box yet.

WHERE TO REDEEM SAMPLE: Remember the very first freebie Venus Beauty let us redeem with a redemption letter? It's a bottle of NOPS Silky Repair Hair Shampoo. Whether you have finished it or not, Venus Beauty has come up with their latest V-Promotion involving that bottle. You can either flash your un-used/un-finished/un-touched shampoo and pay S$9.90 to purchase a NOPS Pink Clay Brightening Mask. If you have already finished the shampoo, you can surrender the empty bottle back to Venus Beauty and get the Mizon Active Slim Body Cool Wash for free.

But what if you want both? Easy!

Transfer your remaining/untouched NOPS Silky Repair Hair Shampoo into another re-usable shampoo bottle. If you had to buy one, get it from Daiso instead. For S$2.00, you can choose 250ml, 400ml, 1000ml, whichever your needs or preference, but I generally recommend 400ml as it's the standard amount for hair shampoo.

As soon as you reached the AMK outlet, flash them the bottle first to buy the NOPS Pink Clay Brightening Mask at S$9.90, but DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT let the staffs take the bottle away from you. Flashing the bottle meant they only see it, not take it from you. Once you are done paying for your S$9.90 Pink Clay mask, then you surrender (a.k.a give back) the empty shampoo bottle to redeem your free Mizon Active Slim Body Cool Wash. I've already confirmed with Venus Beauty that all their fans are eligible to get both items with just 1 empty shampoo bottle.

If for whatever reason the staffs suddenly forgot how the redemption is supposed to work and insist that by flashing your shampoo bottle at them meant they take it back, keep the bottle immediately and insist that they call their office to clarify as this issue is already resolved via Facebook and that you as a fan and customer is eligible to enjoy 2 promotions for 1 shampoo bottle. (Trust me, I know how bad you feel like tearing your hair out already.)

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 contests that I've sourced out for you to join. It will definitely save you the trouble of having to hunt them down :)

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