Achievement Unlocked: Beren and Luthien

I finally have J.R.R. Tolkien's Beren and Luthien! T^T

I have eyed this earlier this year and have shied away upon seeing the hefty price. I was ready to scout again online for this book but someone got me this one. T^T My heart fluttered and crashed with happiness when I opened this Chritmas present from someone. This someone has never failed in helping me with my mundane wish list T^T. I'm still silently crying tears of joy. T^T

Actually, I don't even want to open it.... T^T

This is not yet opened. I don't want to, as of writing. XD

I can crash this, however, from my list of 2018 Mundane Wish List.

I should have done something like this in my previous posts,
screen capping my want-justification,
as the page is updated every now and then.
Don't you think so?

I will read definitely read this, don't worry. It's just that... it's so priceless that I can't even open it, even I am so excited to read it. T^T

It's still a few days before the year ends. There will still be more time to get the rest, or some of my 2018 Mundane Wishlist.

Three Questions I Ask Myself Before Buying

I always see sale advertisements right now whenever I open my Instagram account or just check on some tutorial videos on Youtube. I sometimes can't help but go with the craze. Especially right now that there's Christmas bonuses, 13th month pay, and so on. You just can't help it but consider buying everything on SALE, online or in-store!

Self-control is really up for a challenge,especially for this season. So, here are three questions I ask myself before buying anything, whether if it's Christmas season or not.

1.  I always ask my self, do I really need it right now?
This question comes up when I see trinkets, fashion earrings, including shoes and lip products. There are always follow-up questions with this one, such as: Do I really need a new pair? Is my current pair already deteriorating? Or, have you used up even one of your lip tints? XD

2.  Have I already read or watched any reviews of it?
I stop and ask myself this question before I take the product to the counter, especially if I have the capacity to buy at the moment. This usually comes up especially when one of my skin care products is running out or if I just want to try because I saw it someone's social media account. This question is also helpful when buying gadgets or makeup. Before trying anything else, I want to read a lot of reviews or test the product if it's available in the nearest mall. Sometimes, you just want to try every product that you see in social media.  

3. Do you have any budget for that?
I guess this question is an understatement (question) for the two questions above. XD Because if I really need it or if I have read so many reviews about a product that I want to buy, this question pops out magically. Sometimes, if I'm really 100% sure to buy, I don't have the money. Follow up questions come to mind, such as: Will your savings account be compromised if you buy now? If you really need that, can you pay on time if you buy online? Do you have the patience right now or are you available anytime of the week to wait for Mr. Courier? I have to take them into consideration because sometimes a product that you see is just a want, not a need. :)

If the answer to all questions mentioned above is "No", I don't buy but I will try next time if I have done my conditions. XD

How about you, what questions do you ask yourself before buying anything?

Skin Genie Anti Eyeging Review

There's quite of a hype about this eye care product in beautymnl.com and I got really intrigued. Good thing that they were in Trendsetter's Bazaar last February and I got this for a buy 1-take-1 deal. It comes in a 10 ml roller bottle, like the ones used for oil perfume or cologne. I think this type of packaging is nice because it helps massage the under eye.

Skin Genie Anti Eyeging
I bought this from Skin Genie during the Trendsetter Bazaar last February.
They now have a new packaging when I checked beautymnl.com.

What I like:

• What's amazing is that this really soothes your eyes. If you have puffy, tired eyes, it will help your eyes calmed and moisturized. I now understand the hype.
• It's cool when applied. If you put this in the refrigerator, it will be more soothing. 
• In fairness, the product does not spill from the roller bottle. Of course, when you roll under your eyes, it dispenses quite more than enough.
• It's kind of watery but not oily. It's quite sticky like a serum or essence.

What I do not like:

This is not good under makeup, especially if you have rolled a lot. It is best only to apply during bed time or if you do not have any plans on going out of your house.


Will I repurchase?

Maybe. I'm still open on having an all in one product that moisturizes, soothes and can be used under makeup.

I don't want to say that I like this better than the Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream because I use them respectively on respective routines. I use Mizon for day time and Skin Genie for night time or when I am just at home. They do both work and I get no milia from using them.

Have you tried Skin Genie Anti Eyeging? How do you feel about it? Please share your thoughts!m(__)m

Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream Review

I've never used any eye creams or eye care products when I was younger. I really had an oily face before, so I don't use any moisturizer or any eye creams. I think I oiled too much to make my eye area quite moisturized. Well, I am not that young anymore and the grease production on my face has already calmed down. I need something to moisturize, calm and soothe my eye area, without getting unwanted side effects, like milia. I stare a lot at the computer for long hours almost every day and it tires my eyes badly. I can see some fine lines already. I'm also wearing contact lenses and it really tires my eye muscles after wearing them for more than 8 hours. I used aloe gel before but I feel that it's not that adequate for my eye issues. I think as you age, you may need a little bit of a help. So, it is already high time for me to get eye creams.

I got to know about Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream when I searched online for affordable eye creams. Mizon is often listed within the top 10 of many lists and there are a lot of reviews about it. Some like it, some don't. I also read Fiddy Snail's review and listened to Gothamista's vlog about it and that helped me decide buying this one.

I got Mizon during a free shipping sale from beautymnl in November last year. There are two variants for this eye cream: a tub and a tube. I got the tube one because it's hygienic, even though it's only 15 ml. I haven't finished it yet since I only put this usually at daytime, seldom at night. Though, I think I should use this up already. It has been a year already. (#^O^#)

Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream 15ml
As of writing, it is still sold the same price as the time I bought it last year. :O
Photo from beautymnl. 

What I like:

• It contains 80% snail mucin. I'm quite a fan of snail mucin recently.
• It has no smell. 
• It is not greasy. It is very, very light and a little goes a long way. 
• It sinks in very quickly, so it is nice to put under makeup.
• It's good as a daytime eye cream. It's moisturizing enough to help you apply concealer smoothly.

What I don't like:

Nothing I can think of really. (#^O^#)


Will I repurchase?

I think, I would. I'm still open to other eye creams but this can be a repurchase without a doubt!

Have you tried Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream? How do you feel about it? Please share your thoughts!m(__)m

Quest for Cravings: Hansel Premium #ANewWorldOfWonders Japanese Creations

Two years ago, I posted about satisfying my green tea cravings with Hansel Premium Matcha Green Tea. Luckily, a few days ago, I saw a post from Hansel Premium bringing back their Matcha Green Tea crackers together with two other variants, White Cheese and Black Sesame.

Hansel Premium #ANewWorldOfWonders
Photo taken from Hansel Premium Official Facebook page.

Apparently, the Hansel Premium Matcha Green Tea is reintroduced as part of their new Japanese Creations series. We are to expect a wondrous taste of modern and old combined flavors. These three would be luscious, mouth-watering, and definitely heaven in each bite. Truly #ANewWorldOfWonders!

I checked Hansel Premium's Facebook page and I didn't see where it is available. I may have missed it though. So, I assume that it will be available in the same stores as where Hansel Premium sold their Cheese and Matcha Green Tea.

I'm very excited to try the Matcha Green Tea again and very curious how the White Cheese and Black Sesame would taste.

Are you exited too? XD

Visit Hansel Premium Official Facebook page for more information.

Zenutrients Tea Tree Oil Review

 I bought Zenutrients Tea Tree Blemish Oil about a year ago, when I ran out of the trustee ZenZest Tea Tree oil and there was no stock of it at that time.  So, I guess, it's more than enough time to share to you how great of a product this is, right?

Zenutrients Tea Tree Oil

Zenutrients Tea Tree oil in a 30ml bottle with a gold cap dropper. It straightforwardly claims to treat acne blemishes daily, as stated in front of the bottle. It has a minty scent instead of a strong tea tree smell upon opening. 30 ml seems a lot and you don't need really need so much if you're just going to spot treat.

Zenutrients Tea Tree Blemish Oil is not a bottle of tea tree oil per se but a mixture of different essential oils. It has sunflower oil, shea butter, virgin coconut oil, tea tree essential oil, green tea extract, peppermint essential oi, jojoba oil, and vitamin oil. If you spot-treat zits, you are pretty rest assured that it will not darken as it heals because of the essentials oils that come with it. And if you notice in its ingredients list, it doesn't have alcohol. It may take time to be absorbed and allot extra minutes for wait time if you want to use it under makeup. People sensitive to alcohol will love this.

Zenutrients Tea Tree Oil
Sadly, the ingredients list are undecipherable.
I had to squint my eyes just to read the ingredients.

I use this for healing acne and I usually put this at every night for the duration of the pimple life span. Given that I'll apply the Tea Tree Oil when it hasn't full blown, it will take 3-4 days for the zits to calm and flatten on my skin. Sometimes, if I've just let the pimple grow without medication, it may take up to seven (7) days before it will be really flat. It's nice that the zits don't darken as they heal. However, as soon as the zits calmed and flatten, I switch to tamanu oil for the blemish to completely lighten.

I also use Zenutrients Tea Tree Blemish Oil to spot treat insect bites. It immediately diminishes itches right away. I've read some sources that you can mix tea tree oil for other uses. I haven't really tried that yet. I believe using this, with its mixture of other essential oils, you'll get superior results with whatever you're concocting.

What I like:

• Helps calm down zits. It takes for 3-4 days for it to calm down on me. #YMMV
• Heals zits without them becoming dark as it heals.
• Smells nice - minty with a hint of tea tree.
• Can be used on insect bites.
• Very affordable.  Php 260 per 30ml.

What I don't like:

• Label on the bottle is undecipherable. I'm a fan of reading labels and ingredients. If you're also one, you may need a magnifying glass.
• Has grains because of the coco component. It's not abrasive but you may not like it if you have sensitive skin. It is recommended to just tap tap tap the oil until it is fully absorbed. 

Will I repurchase?

I think, I will!  This baby lasted me for a year, talk about a great deal. XD I only spot treat pimples and insect bites, so it lasted me a very long time.  Your mileage may still vary on how fast it may heal your zits, insect bites or other skin concerns.

Have you tried Zenutrients Tea Tree Oil yet?  How was your experience about it? Please do share. m(___)m

My Skin Care Journal as of September 2018

I have been writing a beauty or a skin care journal which I started last year. I just use a note / journaling app in my phone and write about what I recently purchased, what I think works, and my current skin condition.

Here are the things I learned and realized about writing a beauty or skin care journal:

• I realized I am very lazy to follow a complicated routine. A short, simple skin care routine works for me very well. This is how my current routine looks like with the products I use.

Day Time

Night Time

1.       Water cleanse or cleanse with a low-pH facial wash = Human Heart Nature Nourishing Facial Wash 2.       Toner = Human Heart Nature Nourishing Facial Toner 3.       Moisturizer = COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream 4.       Eye cream =  Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream 5.       Sunscreen = Bioré UV Bright Face Milk SPF50+ PA++++ - If just stay at home, water cleanse is just enough for me and fast on skin care.

1.       Double-cleanse = Biore Cleansing Oil + Human Heart Nature Nourishing Facial Wash 2.       Toner = Human Heart Nature Nourishing Facial Toner 3.       Moisturizer = Cosrx Ultimate Moisturizing Honey Overnight Mask or  The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil non-humid days or exfoliation days. 4.       Eye cream = Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream (skipped when using The Ordinary Rose Hip Seed Oil as moisturizer). 5.  Spot treatment for pimples =  Zenutrients TeaTree Blemish Oil 6. Spot treatment for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) = Skin Genie Heal All Tamanu Oil Exfoliation: - When I feel bumps on my face, I use COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid after double-cleansing and with a 20-minute wait time. Usually after 2-3 days after COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid. - On a weekend or a night before the workday, I use the Fiddy Snails method with COSRX BHA > The Beauty Bakery Charcoal & Clay Scrub Mask > Biore Cleansing Oil.

• I learned that over time, my skin has shifted from very oily to oily but dehydrated type. The dehydration mode depends on the time of the month, the season or the environment. For example, if it’s Summer or if it’s humid, I cannot stand having something very occlusive in my routine. I may need more moisture in a dry and cold environment, like being in the office.
• I like skin care products that are multi-purpose. I dab the The Ordinary Rose Hip Seed Oil as a lip balm/cream at night. Sometimes, if I exfoliate with COSRX BHA, I moisturize with the The Ordinary Rose Hip Seed Oil and that’s it. 
• It helped me pinpoint on what’s wrong or what’s going on with my skin and what I feel about the products that I’m using.
• It helped me in my skin care purchase decisions. So, it has made me into a very careful buyer. 
• Writing this skin care journal is a keeper! 

Do you have a beauty / skin care journal as well? Please share it! \(^o^)/

My Skin Care Journey So Far

So, I posted a picture few weeks ago in my Instagram (IG) Stories because I can’t help but be amazed on how my skin has become. It has never been that clear and in very good condition in many years!

Originally, my skin was very oily and has experienced a lot of acne. I had a very basic skin (s)care routine before. I just cleanse with a very alkaline facial wash and tone with an alcohol-y astringent. I was also very scared of moisturizers and of the thought of using oil on my oily skin. Sun screen application only happens during Summer or on a beach trip.

Fast-forward today, I learned that the basic of all skin care routine steps are always: cleanse, tone, moisturize. I also learned that there are different types of moisturizers that even oily skin peeps can enjoy. Oil for oily skin does not equate to a frying pan. Applying sun screen is anti-aging. I also learned that listening and empathizing to what your skin really needs is more important than having 10 or 20 skin care steps. “Take a step back and press reset”, just like what Liah Yoo said.

Here is the picture that I posted in my IG stories. 

I just slathered on sun screen,
concealed healing acne spots and set it all with powder.
Of course, kilay is life!

Hopefully next time, I can share my bare face with a better texture. *Crossing fingers* I have skin aging concerns aside from getting post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from hormonal acne. I may need to incorporate another product for that or tweak something in my life. LOL

How about you, how’s your skin care journey? Please share all about it! \(^o^)/

Liese Blaune Creamy Foam Color in Brown Review

My good friend @paofection raved using Liese Blaune Creamy Foam Color in Brown. Seeing the result on her hair, I just can't help but to follow suit!

I have been dyeing my hair now for more than three years and this is the first time for me to dye with Liese Hair Dye. I have used Palty hair foam dyes but I have to say that dyeing with Liese is a very enjoyable experience. I particularly chose Liese Blaune Creamy Foam Color because this type is great for gray hair coverage as it claims. I also got the brown shade and I really love it!

BEFORE DYEING.
See the grey hair peeking through, making my hair so uneven.
This is the result after four (4) months of not dyeing.

AFTER DYEING.
Liese Blaune Creamy Foam Color in Brown completely covered my grey hair.
It also covered the old hair color, making it even-toned. 

What I like:

• Application is very easy and very enjoyable! It's just like shampooing your hair.
• It totally covered my gray hair.
• It has no ammonia smell.
• My hair was very soft after dyeing.
• The included treatment can be used until two applications if you have short hair.

What I don't like:

• It has a tendency to wash out if you frequently shampoo your hair. Better to use a shampoo with no sulfates!

Will I repurchase?

Definitely! I think I might also try the non-blaune counter part even if it's not really recommended for gray hair. I read that it also provides good coverage. So let's see how it works on my gray hair next time.

Have you tried Liese Blaune Creamy Foam Color, too?

The Face Shop White Jewel Peeling Review

I was using a popular apricot facial scrub for many years and, although, it gives a very clean feel, my face would become dry and become more oily. I just made the break just recently because I couldn't find any alternative exfoliants. Or I wasn't that open to other exfoliants. I'm scared that it would make my face sensitive or it would aggravate my acne or develop unwanted hyper-pigmentation.

I've tried those exfoliating astringents before and it's not really recommended to use them for a long time because they peel off your skin in generous amounts. Over time, your skin can become really sensitive and develop hyper-pigmentation, especially if exposed under the sun.

What I need is just a gentle physical exfoliant to slough off my dead skin cells and have that clean, clear glowing skin.That popular apricot facial scrub has become too harsh and abrasive and it doesn't really help if you have live, protruding acne. My skin would also feel tight and dry after usage and would instigate dry, patchy skin.

Thank God, I came across this detailed review about peeling gels and exfoliants from Lab Muffin. I had few fears and misconceptions about peelings gels, such as it peels off your skin and makes it more sensitive. But I was wrong, thanks to that review.

Like in the review, I got to try Tony Moly Floria Brightening Peeling Gel but I didn't really quite like it. Yes, it is really has more water content and you may dispense quite a lot of product for it to clump on your skin.

I enjoyed the The Face Shop White Jewel Peeling better. I don't have to dispense a lot for the gommage-cleaning-action to happen.

So let tell you about The Face Shop White Jewel Peeling Gel.

This is an affordable gommage-type of exfoliant. It cost around Php 300-400 for 150 ml. It lasted around eight (8) months on me.

The Face Shop White Jewel Peeling Gel 

It doesn't have a box. It is just wrapped with clear plastic. You can read right through the ingredients list. On first time use, you need to unscrew the cap to peel of the protective sticker of the product. You're rest assured that the peeling gel you're going to buy is unused.

Seal under the cap guarantees you for a fresh product!

The peeling gel looks like a translucent glue. Yes, it has a gel texture and it pills when you rub on dry skin. It is recommended to use this after you wash your face and make sure that your face is dry. Otherwise, the gommage action will not work.

Those little filaments can pill more as you scrub!

What I like:

• It is affordable.
• It doesn't sting on me.
• It relieves my skin of those dry patches and doesn't aggravate dryness.

What I don't like:

• Nothing really! It does smell alcohol-y but it's tolerable. Do not expect that it totally can get rid of your whiteheads and blackhead. This will help lessen them in the process and help your skin shed off those dead skin gently.

Will I repurchase?
I'm open to other peeling gels from other brands. I wouldn't mind going back to this because it is affordable and it gets the job done.

Consider The Face Shop White Jewel Peeling, or peeling gels for that matter, as a physical exfoliant rather than using those abrasive facial scrubs. You just need to slough off those dead, excess skin cells and not rub your skin dry, right?

Have you tried peeling gels? From what brand do you like?

Achievement Unlocked: Rob and Mara Brogues

It's funny to note that I almost forgot that I have a pair of brogues! I was browsing my mundane wishlist and I definitely listed for a pair of brogues.

I got my pair of brogues from Rob and Mara last April. I got to know about them from a post in Instagram (IG). They also have a Facebook page wherein they post their available and new styles, size charts, and reviews. They don't only sell brogues, but also slip on sandals, mules, and boots. The definite selling point for me are that the shoes are locally made and very affordable! I only got mine for Php 1,495. The shipping fee, of course depends on your area, but still this is a great steal compared to getting one from known brands.

This IG post got me interested!
Photo screen capped from Rob and Mara.

Rob & Mara offers high quality genuine leather footwear for every woman's lifestyle. Plus, we assure you great customer service. - About Rob and Mara in their Facebook page.

I originally wanted to have this.
Unfortunately, it wasn't available at that time.
The customer service agent happily suggested for an alternative.Photo screen capped from Rob and Mara.

It was also no hassle ordering from them. If your selected style is not available, they'll immediately inform you and offer you an alternative. If you pay immediately, they ship it the next day and your shoes can get to you within two days!  Their customer service personnel will also notify you if your order has been shipped already. Great customer service indeed.

My pair arrived in a box with a Rob and Mara eco bag.  The smell of genuine leather is evident once you open the box. You are guaranteed of the claimed quality and workmanship of your shoes.

So happy to get an eco bag!
Rob and Mara are partners with American Eagle, Mercino, and Eaglery.
See Rob and Mara for more info.

I can definitely crash this out from my list now. I'm a happy customer and I think I might order again from them. A pair of boots maybe? Let's see. XD

Rob and Mara has sizes for big-feet-people like me. :3

Have you tried Rob and Mara shoes yet? Visit Rob and Mara in their Facebook or Instagram page.

Just Browsing: Blogging vs. Instagram

Recently, many use Instagram (IG) as a platform to post and review products. It's straightforward, concise, and the photos are carefully thought of. It's also pretty convenient because it's right there in the palm of your hands! You don't need to power ON your computer and post your review. You just need a smartphone and the Instagram app. I can't help but think of wanting to jump in the bandwagon. 

I ask myself, "Should I just abandon my blog and move to Instagram if I want to review the products that I've tried?".

There's already  a lot of comparisons made between blogging vs. Instagram if you search the Internet. I found this table from an article that gave out the strengths and weaknesses of blogging and Instagram.

Source: Blog or Instagram? By: Josiah Go
http://business.inquirer.net/237283/blog-or-instagram

Nathalia of The Key Item also listed some blogging pros that IG cannot really suffice:

• Content that lingers
• Costs more
• Easy Access
• Share direct link on multiple platforms
• More extensive and explanatory  

Source: https://www.thekeyitem.com/en/2016/09/blogging-vs-instagram-more-value/

Kyle Chayka of the nymag.com pointed out IG strengths, which I basically agree.

...The app’s simplicity and ease of use makes it perfect for people who are looking to communicate with little friction with a small, direct audience. Best of all, Instagram still feels “private,” even when it’s not: It’s rare to encounter strangers or trolls; old classmates and distant relatives are unlikely to follow you and even less likely to leave comments. 

Source: http://nymag.com/selectall/2015/11/why-instagram-captions-are-the-new-blogging.html

I love writing. In fact, my job is a technical writer. I like to share my thoughts in words. I like the exuded freedom of creativity conveyed in words. I like how words can be manipulated to use in different platforms, whether it's for marketing, news, business or for knowledge management. I think that's why I like to blog from time to time. I enjoy writing about the other side of me, who likes makeup and skin care.

I like IG compared to Facebook (FB). Like what I quoted, you get a sense of privacy in a very public realm. You post pictures and share only to your followers or publicly if you choose. It's also a nice app to post what you specifically like and get comments only for the the photo concerned. It's also a convenient tool to see products with straightforward reviews, ofcourse if searched with specified keywords or hashtags.

I guess answered my question back there. XD 

I will continue to blog, though I don't write post regularly. I don't really blog for profit, which I don't really mind. It's a break for me from tech writing and somewhat a good practice of my job. I get to use the blog to know more about SEO. XD I use IG to somehow help promote my blog and I agree that it is a good marketing tool.

If you have been visiting my blog, you'll see a list of my favorite bloggers I've been following on the side. Let me list some of my favorite IG reviewers here:

• @porepatrol

• @milkyunigirl 

• @paofection - This is my friend from work.

So, which do you prefer, blogging or Instagram?

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence with BB Review

Many bloggers/vloggers rave about the Bioré Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50 PA++++. So I can't help but also join the bandwagon and absolutely love it! So I got to try that but when I ran out of it, I wasn't able to find stocks of it.

Conveniently, I was able to read and know more about of other Bioré sunscreen variants. Particularly, of the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence with BB, as it works well with oily skin. So I decided to get this variant as a replacement. Thank God, there were also an abundance of it when it was time to buy.

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence with BB is a straightforward product, no fuss. It does not come in a box, just a pull-out packaging. Once opened, it doesn't have a protective film that you sometimes see in other tube products. However, you are rest assured that what you get is an unopened tube.

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence with BB
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to take a picture of it when I bought it!
Or I lost the picture.</3 

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence with BB
High SPF yet surprisingly light with 3D brightening effect!
There's pretty much a  combination of chemical and physical filters if you're particular with that.
For those who are wary, alcohol is also way up. Make sure to moisturize well.
Good thing, I was able to keep the packaging for some reference. :3 

It only comes in one shade and has a creamy consistency. Be careful of dispensing the product, since you may think it's quite thick, because of the "BB" in the label. It is very easy to spread and blend. I think that is the "watery" feature of the sunscreen and the silicones in it. So, a little goes a long, long way.

This much can already cover my face and my neck. :D

The Biore UV texts are now almost not visible.
I started using that around July of last year and it's on the brink of getting used up now.
A tube has 33 grams and sells around Php 450.
So, think about how "sulit" it is. 

For me, Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence with BB is more of a tinted sunscreen rather than a BB cream. I can still my pores and cannot cover dark acne marks. But I like how it tones out the redness on the sides of my nose and the unevenness of my skin.

True to its claim, Biore UV Aqua Rich Waterty Essence with BB is a very nice for oily skin. I don't get oily at all and it really keeps me fresh looking. This is also because of its alcohol content. However, my face really gets dehydrated in an air conditioned room. So, while wearing this tinted sunscreen, it accentuates dry patches that I have. I really need to have a very good moisturizer underneath this. Sometimes, I spritz on some facial mist or toner to keep my face hydrated.


What I like:

• It really finishes matte! This is really good for people with oily skin. 
• It tones my face that I do not have to wear a separate BB cream. I just have to top it off with a translucent powder to make it last longer. 
• This can be a great base for BB cream and foundation.

What I don't like:

• It accentuates some dry areas of my face. Moisture is key when using this sunscreen. 
• A separate concealer is needed if you have some dark spots or acne marks.

Will I repurchase?
Most probably will! Having this tinted sunscreen already saves me time because I can skip putting on BB cream.

Have you tried Bioré Aqua Rich Watery BB as well? Please share your thoughts about it. ^o^

Know more about other Bioré sunscreens and their other products on their Instagram and Facebook page.

Silicone-free Shampoos: Pure Beauty Moisture Repair Treatment Shampoo and Arome by Watsons Aqua Moist Moisture and Shine Shampoo Reviews

My recent trip to Watson was spent looking for these shampoos:

• Pure Beauty Moisture Repair Treatment Shampoo
• Arome by Watsons Aqua Moist Moisture and Shine Shampoo

Unfortunately, I couldn't find them. I was relatively happy with these shampoos because my hair felt soft, frizz free, and my scalp did not itch. Too bad, I just couldn't find them, now.

Looking for these:
Pure Beauty Moisture Repair Treatment Shampoo
Arome by Watsons Aqua Moist Moisture and Shine Shampoo

My primary concern was having frizzy hair due to coloring and the after effects of having it chemically and digitally permed. Although that it has been more than three years since I had my hair permed, I still and also suffer from hair fall. I also considered using shampoos from Human Heart Nature, though they're not yet my holy grail ones.

When I found these shampoos on separate occasions, I was skeptical because I'm worried that even though they're silicone and sulfate free, I may still end up having dry and frizzy hair or have exacerbated hair fall. Or, either way, vice versa. You know, your mileage may vary (YMMV). Well, I jumped on the gun just relying on their individual claims and their value for money.

Pure Beauty Moisture and Repair Treatment Shampoo

I bought this after some thought after mixed feelings on using Human Heart Nature shampoos. My hair became and soft and the hair fall lessened with Human Heart Nature. However, it still was frizzy unless you comb or brush it well and leave a hair serum it. I can't do that every day, especially if I am in a hurry.

Like I said, I was skeptical buying this one. I remembered, though, that using silicone-free shampoos have benefits.

Pure Beauty Moisture and Repair Treatment Shampoo claims:

Pure Beauty Treatment Shampoo is enriched with Camellia Seed Oil from Japan to help nourish and moisturize dry and damaged hair. The frequent use of shampoo gently cleanses and strengthens each strands of hair, leaving your hair smoother and more manageable with an exceptional shine. *See source.  

I found out that it also does not have strong sulfates, which is a plus but it may disappoint foam-loving people. Sulfates strip away hair moisture. If you have color-treated hair, you easily lose its luster. This shampoo also has pomegranate extract. Although it has ingredients from Japan, it is made in Korea.

Pure Beauty Treatment Haircare
Silicone-free hair care products with Repair Complex for lustrous and healthy hair
√ Plant-derived Red Repair Complex
√ Pomegranate Extract
√ Camellia Japonica Seed Oil
√ Free of 6 harmful substances

Ingredients:
Aqua, Disodium Laureth Sulfoccinate, Polyquatermum 67, Sodiul Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids, Cocamide MEA, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cecoate, Rehmannia Glutanosa Root Extract, Cocamide Methly MEA Citirc Acid, Menthol, Phenoxyethanol, Paernia Albullera Root Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Parfum, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Benzyl Salicylate, Citronellol, d-Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool

When I bought it from Watsons here, it was priced Php 289 for 500 ml. Not bad for a big bottle.

What I like:

• It left my hair smooth and less frizzy.
• It cleaned my oily scalp very well.
• My hair color stayed and faded decently.
• It is affordable. A bottle can last up to four months. :D

What I don't like:

• Stocks are limited. DX

Will I repurchase?
Yes! If there are more stocks. DX


Arome by Watsons Aqua Moist Moisture and Shine Shampoo

I was searching for something similar when I wasn't able to find Pure Beauty Moisture and Repair Treatment Shampoo. Just to my disappointment. Good thing, I found this on sale. From being priced around Php 350, I just paid Php 104? It was a big deal!

Though it was on a huge sale, I was still skeptical. But having read that it is from Japan, so why not. (such biases XD)

Arome by Watsons Aqua Moist Moisture and Shine Shampoo claims....

Made with premium natural oil helps to repair damaged hair and offers smooth and rejuvenated finishing. Contains 4 types of premium oils and 8 types of natural plant extracts for added moisture and softness and enhance its beauty. *See source.

Arome by Watsons Aqua Moist Oil Shampoo
Non-Silicone  Salon Quality Premium Oil Hair Care
√ Made with premium natural oil moisturises your hair, provides you lustrous hair with a smooth and shiny finishing
√ Contains 4 types of premium oils and 8 types of natural plant extracts for added moisture and softness to repair hair and enhance its beauty
√ Salon Quality
√ Additives Free
√ Relaxing rose fragrance to keep your hair fresh and scented all day long

I tried listing all the ingredients but unfortunately, I wasn't able to successfully peel off the price tag because it wouldn't budge. I tried looking for any ingredients list only. Unfortunately, as well, I couldn't find any. DX But here's the list that I was able to jot down. Seems that these chemicals are alternatives to the usual silicones we find in softening shampoos.

Ingredients:
Water, Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocanidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Cocamide DEA, Sodium Lauroly Methylaminopropionate, Cocamide Methyl MEA, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride, Fragrance, Sodium Sulate, Pilysaternium-10, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Methylisothiazolinone, Butylene Glycol, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Sodium Citrate, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Fruit Extract...Hydrolzed Rice Quaternium-18,  Quaternium-33, ...

It smelled like synthetic roses that kind of makes me queasy but it fades away when shampooing. The smell kind of lasts long on hair. This does not have sulfates also but it still lathers well.

What I like:

• The smell kinda lasts long on the hair.
• My hair is left smooth and shiny with less hair fall.
• I did not experience any dandruff build-up. It lathers well and easy to wash off.

What I don't like:

• Stocks are also limited. DX
• The supposedly rosey smell make me a little queasy but it fades away as you go on shampooing. 

Will I repurchase?
Yes! If there are more stocks. DX

Come to think of it, I should've hoarded more on either of them. I could really feel and enjoy each of their benefits. Plus, I am confident I could enjoy more of my hair color when using each of these shampoos. And to reiterate, they are bangs for buck. I just wish that Watsons will restock them more and soon!

Such guns to be pulled.

Have you tried any of these shampoos? Please share your thoughts on them. ^o^


* It seems that the source links don't work anymore, though it worked before.

Suesh Concealer and Corrector Review

I went to Suesh SM Megamall branch and bought some of their Concealer and Corrector pots. Suesh Concealer and Corrector pots are very affordable and have 15 shades to choose from. You can  mix and blend two (2) shades depending on your skin tone and pigmentation. You can actually create your own concealer and corrector palette with it!

Photo taken from Suesh's Facebook page.

Each pot only costs Php 120. So, I bought two (2) shades, one in C204 and C206. I didn't buy one of their magnetic cases. I thought of using an old powder foundation case and it worked! The only thing I lack now is a concealer brush, which I'm thinking of buying (for quite a long time now also LOL!).

I've read from reviews that Suesh Concealer and Corrector have high coverage and long lasting. True enough, they do! The green one blends into your skin and covers red pigments very well. It may cake if you have dry areas of your skin. If you have experienced caking, just apply your trusted moisturizer and pat to blend. :D

What I like:

• It's affordable for Php 120 per pot.
• There are so many shades to choose from.  
• A little goes a very long way for personal use!

What I don't like:

• It can be unhygienic if you do not transfer it to a case. You may also accidentally smudge it if you just use the cover it came with (like what happened to mine).
• It may cake on dry areas of the face. Moisturize well!

Will I repurchase?
Maybe. The price and quality is hard to beat, though I'm open for other options.

Suesh Concealer and Corrector pots are a very good deal for  makeup beginners and professionals. You can create your own palette to suit your needs or for your makeup sideline. They also have high coverage and are long lasting. Did I say, affordable? XD

Check out Suesh's website, Instagram or Facebook page to know more of their products and latest promos.

Achievement Unlocked for 2017 Mundane Wishlist

I've hit quite a lot of my mundane wishlist in 2017, even those which are a challenge to find. I'm hopeful that for 2018. I will hit more. :D

For 2017, I was able to hit four wishes! I got 50% of the Earthsea series and The Silmarillon!

Earthsea series
From L-R:  Book 4: Tehanu, Book 3: The Farthest Shore, Book 2: The Tombs f=of Atuan. 

The Silmarillon and Shannara series Book 1: The Sword of Shannara.
In the middle is a shawl from an officemate. <3

I got to know about the Earthsea series from the Tales of Earthsea animated film by Studio Ghibli.  From the animated film, I got very much intrigued and researched about it. It's like a whole new world comparable to Middle Earth, Narnia, Dune and the world of Ice and Fire. From my understanding, the Earthsea Cycle came as trilogy but it is now continued with two other books and one that comprises a collection of short stories that happened in the Earthsea archipelago. So I have three more to find for this series.

I first got the third book of the series, The Farthest Shore. I got from an Ahjussi selling books in a weekend bazaar. On a separate occasion, and still from the same Ahjussi and bazaar, I found book two - Tombs of Atuan and book four - Tehanu. (As of writing, I remember, I think I also found book five - The Other Wind and the short story collection - Tales from Earthsea. I'd better check Aahjussi's stocks again! XD). Honestly, I haven't opened them yet. I don't want to start reading them yet, especially I don't have book one.

I got The Silmarillon from our exchange gifts at work. I listed it in the wishlist, semi-hoping that I would get that. I even listed book one of the Earthsea series. I know they are hard-to-find books but I listed them anyway. I got lucky that the one who got my name is a bookworm! He was able to find The Silmarillon and incorrectly got me book one of the Shannara series - to my utter enjoyment. Now, I'm thinking that if I start reading the book of the Shannara series, I might read the rest of it. Good luck to me! XD

I'm happy to have them crashed off my wishlist. I'm looking forward to get all or most of my wishlist this 2018!

How about you? Have you ticked off some things off your wishlist? If not, there's another year to get them. Gambatte! ^o^