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^

Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum Review

Hi Guys! Happy Holidays!

I'm still here, just silently lurking, reading, and re-reading blogs about skin care, makeup, sales and what-nots. XD I'm also enjoying my time reading reviews and trying out the skin care products I've brought. To be honest, they've never failed me. I love all of them!

Here's one that I tried and absolutely like, the Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum. Too bad that I only got one sample from purchasing the COSRX Advanced Snail Mucin 96 Power Essence. I wish I had more 'cause I loved it the first time I tried it.

 Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum 1 ml. sample sachet. This sachet can be used for three days (if you're that stingy XD).

The Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum is a very light serum. The consistency is like water but quite tacky and sticky when contacted on skin. A little goes a very long way and you need to pat, pat, pat to absorb it completely. It does not disrupt the previous or the next layer of skin care product's effectiveness. It leaves your skin so soft, supple, moisturized and hydrated. If you're on the oily side, your face will not be a grease pan when waking up. This serum is truly an enjoyable product to add in your skin care routine.

What I like:

• It is very, very, very light like water but full of moisture!
• It makes my skin very soft, supple, moisturized, hydrated and does not make my face oily when waking up.
• A little goes a long way. I only had a sample size, about 1 ml., and it lasted me three days!

What I don't like:

• I cannot really say because I only had a sample size. However, I didn't experience any breakout or adverse reaction from using it.

Will I purchase?
I think, I want to!

I can say that the Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum is a very good product to add on to your skin care routine, even though I only had a sample size to savor its goodness. It delivers the needed moisture to keep the skin barrier well hydrated and moisturized. I'm strongly thinking abou having this one added in my skin care routine.

How about you, are you using this serum? Please share your thoughts about it. (^o^)

Miniso BlowLash EX24 Perfect Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil in Red Brown Review

I was quite on the search at Daiso sometime when I did not found any of my favorite eyebrow pencil in brown. Daiso can be tricky, so you need to be on the look out for your favorite items!

The type that I have always been using and hording!

I turned to Miniso when I couldn't find my favorite eyebrow pencil from Daiso.

As you know Miniso has this knick-knacks of home products, accessories, clothes and even beauty products. It's a perfect place to get those affordable but of quality items for any occassion and for any need. Mind you, Christmas is coming, it's also a perfect place to get giveaways. XD

I got the Miniso BlowLash EX24 Perfect Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil in Red Brown.

Miniso BlowLash EX24 Perfect Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil safely sealed. 

Just like any other eyebrow pencil, it has the lead and the spoolie. That's the full lead on the other end (left) and a spoolie on the other (right). I bought this one around June or July. I still have around 1 or 2 cms. of a stub of it. I mix it with my trusty eyebrow pencil from Daiso to create a good shade of brown. This eyebrow pencil leans more of the reddish side.

The shade is labeled on the on other end of the pencil. Other eyebrow pencils don't have shade labels. 

Swatch on hand after a couple of swipes.  Pigment is good for me but can be light if you have darker hair color.

What I like:

• Affordable at Php 99.
• It can last for more than four (4) hours on my oily face. I just make sure to top a translucent powder on top to seal it. 
• Its red-brown shades matches well with red/brown or copper hair and can be blended with another eyebrow pencil or powder.

What I don't like:

• The eyebrow pencil lead is not that wide to my liking. It's kind of a challenge to create that Korean straight brows. XD

Will I repurchase?:
Maybe, I will... if I don't find my favorite from ANY Daiso branches. XD

Have you tried this one too? Please share your thoughts about it. (^o^)

Just Browsing: Blogs that I have been following

Hi Guise!

How have you been? Apparently, I have just been browsing (as my blog suggests) as of late. I have done some findings/ reviews that I have used/using but I still need to put pictures in it. And I've realized, as my findings/reviews are still all saved in draft, they still change depending on the conditions on how well they perform on my skin. Thus, the silence of my blog. >_<

As I have been browsing and reading notable blogs, some bloggers/ vloggers monitor a product's effectiveness on them for a span of a month to six months. In that way, readers or audiences of the blog can be assured of quality blog posts. Well, products will really depend on your skin type and skin condition. As they say, hiyangan. I like that type of blogs that really explain how the product works and how it performs on their skin type.

Since I have been browsing more about skin care, there are so much skin care ingenuity compared to years ago! Skin care now goes beyond just knowing your skin type. I've learned that you may need to use products depending on your skin condition of the month or season. Your skin care products may change from time to time according to your skin care needs. I've also learned and reaffirmed myself that moisture and sunscreen are must haves for all skin types. Oily/combination skin-type girls like me have no excuse to omit that!

Here is a list of bloggers/ vloggers that I found really helpful about skin care and beauty questions.

• Liah Yoo - Liah Yoo is a blogger/vlogger based in Seoul and New York. She talks about Korean skin care mostly but also features western products. What I like about her is that, she had troubled skin before which has dramatically improved with effective skin care and patience! It's interesting that she has helped a lot of audiences with their skin troubles.

Get to know her more here:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/YellowyCream
Blog: www.liahyoo.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aboutliahyoo

• Lab Muffin - I got to know about Lab Muffin from one of the posts in Project Vanity (maybe Facebook or Instagram) and also when I was reading more about peeling gels. She is a certified chemists and talks about skin care products scientifically in a very easy way! She makes us understand that the science behind every product is useful knowledge for us to assess which products are worth buying.

Get to know her more here:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg6P323bLV4zMSWFqFhvWMg
Blog: http://www.labmuffin.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labmuffinbeautyscience/

• Project Vanity - I have been a follower of this blog since 2011, with Miss Liz Lanuzo still doing and creating the posts. Today, Project Vanity has become a team of creative beauty bloggers that cater to more beauty and skin care posts that answers just about any skin care or beauty concerns we have. What I like about this blog is that it features high-end and drugstore products and makes you confident on choosing either of them according to your preference. You don't have to be intimidated using high-end ones or feel embarrassed because you're using a drugstore one. The point is that they highlight their effectiveness and worth on every budget.

Get to know more about them here:

Blogsite: www.projectvanity.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/projectvanity/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/projectvanitycom/

So, yes, I have just been browsing and those blogs are the one I have been quite relying for products that I want to try and understand what they can really do for me and my skin type. I haven't been really productive on the updating side but I feel I am because I learn so much from those blogs.

How about you, what have you been browsing as of late? (^o^)

Long Weekend Sale April 27 - May 2, 2017

Hi guys!

This weekend is going to be one loooong weekend because of the ASEAN Summit and the Labor Day Weekend! Most people will get back to reality on the second day of May. As for people working in the BPO industry, however, it's a different kind of story. LOL

Well, to fret or not to fret, there are a lot of SALE going on this weekend! This is a great opportunity to stock on essentials or to check out bargains to flare up your summer style.

Personally, here are some that I would like to check out. :D

Manila Sundance at World Trade Center April 28 - 30, 2017
The LandMark Sale April 27 - May 2, 2017
UNIQLO 4-Day Sale April 28 - May 1, 2017

Happy Weekend!

sources:
http://www.manilashopper.com/
https://www.instagram.com/manilasundance

Cruset Hair Colour Cream in A998 Dark Blond Review

Hi guise? Can you feel the summer heat already? So hot, right?

Fortunately, it was a gloomy the other day in Davao and thought I had someone help me dye my hair. :D (Connect please XD)

As you've known, I've used Palty for my past hair dyeing. I love how it the color sticks to my hair for around four to six months before it fades away and becomes brassy. And as you know, Palty is quite on the pricey side. I used a different brand prior to this dyeing session and the color did not really last. It was inexpensive but it did not stay. For some, it worked but not for me. Too bad, I actually just dyed last month. </3 So, I looked for more affordable ones. My friend recommended Cruset Hair Colour Cream.

Cruset Hair Colour Cream with Conditioner Plus Vitamin C & Collagen

Cruset Hair Colour Cream is made from Thailand. I bought mine from Watsons for Php199. I've seen this brand in SM Beauty as well but it's not really a popular brand. It's even located on the lower part of the shelves.

The shade I chose was the A998 Dark Blond (as seen on the box). Inside the box is a 12% Developer Cream and the Hair Colour Cream, each are 60ml. It's enough for short-haired girls like me. If you have thick hair or long hair, you might want to grab two boxes. You'll also find a pair of gloves (not pictured, I already disposed it! XD)

Inside the box: The Developer Cream and Hair Colour Cream. The plastic hand gloves were not pictured. I didn't take a picture before everything. DX

The Developer Cream and Hair Colour Cream  each has their inscriptions both in English and Thai.

The Developer Cream. Ingredients and Warning notes can be read in English and in Thai. The manufacturing and expiration date can also be seen.

The Hair Colour Cream. Ingredients and Warning notes can be read in English and in Thai. The manufacturing and expiration date can also be seen.

Like the inscriptions of both products found inside the box, you'll also see ingredients and the details from where it's made at the back of the box.

At the back of the box, Cruset Hair Colour Cream with Conditioner Plus Vitamin C & Collagen. Inscriptions are both in English and in Thai.

Instructions and warning notes are written on each side of the box. One side is in English and the other, in Thai. I find it cool that the translations are pretty straightforward. It's east to understand without figuring out its meaning because of its awkward translation.

Left: English instructions and warning notes.
Right: Thai instructions and warning notes.

At the bottom, you'll also see the manufacturing and expiration dates of the Hair Colour Cream and Developer Cream respectively.

Manufacturing and expiration dates at the bottom of the box. This brand really cares for its customers!

Just as the directions say, just mix the hair colour cream and developer cream in a bowl with a brush. Of course, you need to wear dark clothing or a cape when dyeing. Also, put some plastic or newspapers on the floor to avoid staining. It's also good to have someone help you dye. :D

Voila, what do you think?

Looks good to me! It covered the grays quite well and dominated the roots.

I think I might have over dyed my hair. The instruction says to leave the dye for 20-30 minutes. I have extended 10 minutes more because I had pedicure done simultaneously with the dyeing process. The dyeing was just done at home and I have to rinse my hair on my own LOL. My hair felt quite dry, huhuhu. I used a separate conditioner to make my hair softer. The box says that it is infused with Conditioner, Vitamin C and Collagen, which are known to have restoring properties and such. Maybe, if used correctly, you'll feel those nutrients backing your hair up? XD


What I like:

• Easy to apply, though you may need extra pair of hands for hard to reach parts of your head or if you have long hair.
• Covered most, if not all, of my grays.
• It blended well with the existing color and dominated the roots very well.
• The smell is not so strong. It's like annoying strong scented shampoo that you can ignore after a couple of minutes.
• It's easy to rinse off.
• Straightforward instructions.
• Very affordable DIY dye.

What I don't like:

• My hair felt dry. </3 Maybe also because, I've extended 10 minutes more than the recommended setting time. I used a separate conditioner to make my hair soft.
• Shades are not too many and I think they are only available in Watsons and SM Beauty. (So let me know if you've seen this brand somewhere. XD)
• Does not have applicators and other inclusive stuff, such as conditioners or leave-on creams. ( I bet that compromised with the price.)

Will I repurchase?

Maybe. I'll see if the color doesn't fade fast, given using any type of shampoo, may it be for color protect or not.

Cruset Hair Colour Cream is a well-pigmented affordable hair dye. It's pretty easy to use and can cover grays. I hope, it will last long, just as my friend has recommended. If it does, I might repurchase and dye accordingly to the instructions to avoid over dyeing and reduce hair damage. XD

Have you tried Cruset Hair Colour Cream as well? Please do share what you think about it! :3

[UPDATE 6/25//2017] After 3 months, the color become very brassy. Will I repurchase? Still, a maybe. I like its coverage but I don't like how brassy it becomes after many washes. </3

The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Pore Scrub Foam Review

Hi guys! I'm sneaking up a post before everything else becomes all technically busy... again. </3

You might have read about my findings on The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Nose Strip before, right? It actually is a part of The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava line and it was the first product I've used from that line.

The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Pore Scrub Foam

I bought The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Pore Scrub Foam some time at the last quarter of 2016. I've been particulary eyeing this one because of its Jeju Volcanic properties that deep cleanses, tightens pores, and fights sebum. This pore scrub foam is quite similar to Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam. I haven't tried that but I read it has a lot of raves online. However, Innisfree is only available online and they still don't have a physical store here. :( I immediately bought The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Pore Scrub Foam when it became available at the nearest The Face Shop branch. Just in time also when I ran out of my previous cleansing foam.

Too bad, I forgot to take a picture before opening it. Rest assured, it's covered in plastic and has a seal inside the tube to prevent spillage. By the time you buy it, your 12 months of shelf life will start. :D

At the back, it has the product description, instructions, and ingredients. Instructions are in English and French, which I think very cool - to think that Korean products before do not have translations.

Instructions are available in Korean, English and French!

This dispenses a brown cream with some brown-er specs. The specs are responsible for its scrub texture. A little goes a long way for this product. Dry-skin people might not like this because it finishes squeaky clean. So, it's good to moisturize after cleansing.

Can you see the little brown specs, boxed in orange? XD They're responsible for the scrub sensation when you lather up.

What I like:

• A little goes a long way! It lather very well and covers your whole face and neck with just a pea-size amount.
• It gives a squeaky-clean effect and washes away light makeup. Waterproof makeup, of course, still needs to be cleansed away with a makeup remover.
• It did not give me any breakouts and keeps my face oil-free.
• Affordable! A 150 ml tube costs Php 395. It may last six months or more.

What I don't like:

• If I use too much, the sides of nose gets dry. I have oily-combination skin and I have a little of those dry areas, especially if I haven't exfoliated yet or it's that time of the month.

Will I repurchase?
I most probably will!

The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Pore Scrub Foam is formulated for those with oily-combination skin, hence its name, pore scrub foam. If you are on the drier side, a good moisturizer is needed to balance it. If you like a squeaky feel, this pore scrub foam is for you!

Follow The Face Shop in their Instagram or Facebook to know about their newest products and promos.

Suesh Silisponge / Silicone Sponge Review

I saw this sponge in Suesh's Instagram post and quickly got intrigued by it. After scouring the Internet, I found out that this product took up the storm some time around the last quarter of 2016. See this post from more.com to see some reviews of the silisponge / silicone sponge from mostly-viewed makeup bloggers online. I also found this post and this video from Ms. Martha of The Beauty Junkee.

The silisponge/ silicone sponge from Suesh costs only Php80. It is packaged in a small ziplock bag.

Suesh Silicone Sponge

It feels like a nipple tape hehehe. I tried it with The Face Shop Photo Blur BB Cream.

Suesh Silicone Sponge

What I like:

• It does help you save on your BB cream or liquid foundation. It does not absorb them, so you get most of your pea-size amount.
• It helps set BB cream or liquid foundation without caking, given that you only use a small amount.
• It is a breeze to clean. I think you can let your friends try this out, given that you clean it first. :D
• Affordable.

What I don't like:

• If you generally use more of your BB cream or liquid foundation, it may cake and can be quite a challenge to set.
• It doesn't seamlessly fit to the corners of your face, such as the sides of the nose and inner corners of your eyes.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

Suesh Silisponge / Silicone Sponge Overall

The one that I got from Suesh has a distinct plastic smell. Maybe because it's silicone(?) Overall, I may repurchase when its lining rips but from the looks of it, it would last a long way.

Check out Suesh's Instagram or visit their website to get a hold of their affordable Sili Sponge and other makeup tools.

Weekend (s)Trip!

Hi guise!

How's your weekend?  I spent my weekend stripping my face off with these three different pore strips. These are my to-go pore strip products, which are effective and very affordable. My favorite is The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Nose Strip, which is really good in extracting those icky blackhead and whiteheads off your nose. Hope you had a great weekend!

On my forehead: Glamworks Chin and Forehead Strips
On my nose: The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Nose Strip
On my chin: Etude House Missin U Black Charcoal Chin Pack

Blog Goals :D

Oisashiburi minna! It's been a long time, isn't it? Well, it's too late to greet you guys a Happy New Year, in Gregorian or in Lunar time. I have been "pre-occupied" by work at the end of last year and at the start of the year. You don't want to know how I am slaving right now LMAO.

There's a lot of catching up for me to do!

Looking back through my mundane wishlist, it seemed that I have only crashed out only a third of one of the items. I got the first volume of the Tiny Book Series. I think I can stop at that and if I will be blessed more, I hope I can find the other two. Seriously, I'm fine with just having one. :)

I've been controlling myself also with impulse book buying. I've cleaned the room that I'm staying in and I've found that there are still a lot of unread books. I've bought two last year. I bought Dan Brown's Angel and Demons -  a re-read and Mineko Iwasaki's memoir, Geisha, A Life - a new one. I want to read this in comparison to Arthur Golden's Memoirs of a Geisha, which have been regarded by many, including Iwasaki, as some of a faux because it's written by a man and a foreigner.

Well, I don't want to delve in deeper to that. I just want to say that I don't really have a strong book quest feel as of late. I've been quite unlucky in search of the Earthsea series. And here I am... I found one good for the quest! See my updated list. Haha.

I think I'm going to crash out another one from the list. I think I can live without it... or them. As I've mentioned, it's just a mundane list. XD

As for sharing to you my findings, I have a lot on my plate. It would be really unfair if I list what I want to write about and don't write about it, right? I'm amazed how other bloggers can keep up with their upcoming reviews. Personally, though, I'm restricted with that kind of setup. I want to share what I have really tried and used. Plus, I'm on the writing business, beating up technical jargon and deadlines. I want my findings or reviews, free flowing and natural. In short, I have a lot to write about! XD

I'm kind of getting ecstatic this year. I have to step my organization skills up a notch and keep up. <<< I guess that's my blog goal, right there!

(flex) :D

The Weeknd's Starboy Made Me Watch Victoria's Secret 2016

Aside from the long legs, slim figures and alluring lingeries, what makes me watch Victoria's Secret almost every year are the guest performers. I really enjoyed watching Nicki Minaj and Maroon 5 liven up the show on 2010. It was all so bouncy and HOT!

This year, my ongoing last-song-syndrome (LSS) with The Weeknd's Starboy made me watch Victoria's Secret 2016. In fairness, The Weeknd has a rocking voice. XD

Have you seen Victoria's Secret 2016 already? XD

Keep calm, it's only the Christmas Rush!

The Christmas rush is here and the excitement can just take you away! There are a lot sales, discounts, combo purchases and many more where ever you turn. I easily get overwhelmed by them and lead me to impulse buying.

Photo credit from Google Images.

To keep my sanity, I do the following:

• I make a list of who I'd like to give presents to.
• Once I made a list of people, I list each of the probable presents that I'd like to give each person. I list up to five (5) presents each person.
• Next, I list the probable prices of each present that I have listed for each person. 

There's already an allotted budget for the whole Christmas presents budget before I do the list. So even if I listed expensive presents, I can go back to the maximum budget, look for alternative presents and keep in mind that I should not go over the budget.  It's easier for me to save and at the same time, really think about the present that I want to give to the person. It would be a waste giving someone something that he/she cannot use and is just a product of an after thought. It's the thought that really matters after all, so at least, put some thought for it, right?

How about you, how do you handle the Christmas rush?

Blogger New UI Layout

Blogger rolled out a new UI layout. It's clean but it's kind of confusing, at least for me. I guess it will take a little kind of getting used to. Good luck!

Eden's Paradise Nude Teddy Creamy Matte Liquid Lipstick Review

I have been using organic products for my skin care and bath regimen for quite sometime now but I've never really ventured out to makeup. I tried a tinted lip balm from Human Heart Nature but I did not quite like its formulation on me.  I recently found about Eden's Paradise Nude Teddy Creamy Matte Liquid Lipstick from one of the most celebrated local bloggers and she just totally loved it. Trying out Nude Teddy Creamy Matte Liquid Lipstick from Eden's Paradise is a first!

Eden's Paradise has been gaining quite a cult rave locally. I actually came to know about them a couple of years back when one of my collage acquaintances is reselling their products.  I was skeptical before on trying out their products because I can only read reviews from the posted customers' feedback of my acquaintance's Facebook page. I was also using organic products from a different brand for a fraction of a price and availability of those are conveniently available in some supermarkets. When I scoured the Internet again about them, many have already tried and said nothing but great reviews on how effective their products.

Eden's Paradise Nude Teddy Creamy Matte Liquid Lipstick 

Upon ripping the liquid lipstick from the supposedly cling wrap, you'll find the liquid lipstick has its simple packaging. The print on the tube reminds me of Pink Sugar Tint and Kylie. The distinctive caterpillars makes it genuinely Eden's Paradise.

A small inlay is wrapped around the tube. The front says of the brand with a Kylie-esque lips.

Inside you'll find the product description, instructions on how to use and the ingredients. It is infused with organic goodness that definitely will keep your lips hydrated, even if it's matte.

At the back, you'll see some information on how to get connected with them.

Looking at the bottom, you'll see a cute sticker of its expiration date.

Its tube has some kind of a vacuum characteristic that guarantees it won't spill out. I noticed, however, it smells like old lipstick. Maybe because it's organic? 

Its doe-foot applicator makes application precise and a breeze. It's highly pigmented. It shows not really nude on me but kind of a 90's reddish brown.

It's kind of more of a reddish brown on me rather than nude. :3

Eden's Paradise Nude Teddy Creamy Matte Liquid Lipstick in a nutshell

What I Like:

• Its doe-foot applicator makes precise application. You can apply on commute, running or walking. XD
• Its color lasts for quite a while though, you may need retouch once in a while.
• Its affordability.
• It's hydrating even without the need of a lip balm. As for me, I still put on lip balm sometimes to prevent chapping because I have dry lips. For a perfect matte lips, exfoliation is needed. :D

What I don't like:

• Its smell. Maybe because it's organic or with the packaging(?) But, I did not have any adverse reaction - no itching or swelling.

Will I repurchase?

Most probably! I like to wear it on days when I feel like to have kind of a drama on my look. Its highly pigmented and affordable.

I would also like to try Eden's Paradise other products. They have so much to offer from skin care, bath essentials and to makeup products. They can definitely compete with the current market and with the current need of organic products. Their Bursting Tomato Love Gel, Tomato pore detox soap are some that I want to try.

I got Eden's Paradise Nude Teddy Creamy Matte Liquid Lipstick from one their re-sellers, who's close from where I'm currently staying. She's fast and delivers no-hassle transaction. You can also order from Eden's Paradise main Facebook page or from their website.

Have you tried Eden's Paradise Nude Teddy Creamy Matte Liquid Lipstick or their other products? Please do share about it. :D

Visit Eden's Paradise to know more about them!

Facebook: Eden's Paradise Main Branch
Instagram: Eden's Paradise Main Branch

Achievement Unlocked: The Tiny Book Volume 1

Have I told you that I got one of the The Tiny Book series?  It's part of my mundane wishlist. Well, someone got me that as a post birthday present. That someone is the same person who gave me Tuf Voyaging last year. That person is really helping me reach my mundane wishes :3

The Tiny Book Volume 1

Says some things about me. Hehehe.

My favorite part. :3

I think I can scratch the quest from my 2016 Mundane Wishlist now.... Having the first volume can suffice and the drive of my quest for this has been satiated already. But if I can still receive, somehow, in one way or another, the next two volumes, then thank you in advance! :3

Experiencing Chuao Chocolates

Our boss came to visit us a couple of weeks ago. She gave us some artisan chocolates! <3 Here's what my friend and I got.

Chuao Oh My Smores! and Spicy Maya

Oh My Smores! is crafted with joy, fluffy marshmallows and crushed honey graham crackers reunite in milk chocolate. Spicy Maya is also crafted with joy, seductive cinnamon, pasilla chile and warming cayenne bedded in dark chocolate. Don't you crave for them just by reading their descriptions?

A closer look: Chuao Oh My Smores!

A closer look: Chuao Spicy Maya

Each chocolate is inspired by an experience. You can read them at the back aside from the usual ingredients list.

The Experience:
Crushed honey graham goodness, fluffy marshmallows and creamy milk chocolate take your taste buds on a trip down memory lane with Oh My S'mores! The cracking of the campfire. The children's ooey gooey grins. The sweet smell of toasty marshmallows in the air. Just one scrumptious bite and... oh my!

The Experience:
A warm cinnamon embrace, velvety chocolate and an infusion of cayenned and pasilla chile just enough heat to melt your heart. Spicy Maya is the perfect mix of sweet and seductive.

Master chocolatier, Chef Michael Antonorsi, is behind Chuao chocolatier. He crafted chocolates after 30 years from working in the tech industry. I just found out from their site that Spicy Maya is their signature flavor. It is a modern twist on the Mayan’s ancient drinking chocolate recipe, infused with cinnamon, pasilla chile and cayenne pepper. From then on, the Spicy Maya flavor has extended across all of Chuao’s product lines.

My friend and I finished Oh My Smores! It's not that sweet. It's not also that milky, if you like more of the milk taste. Spicy Maya is not yet finished, I refused to do so LOL. It has an exquisite spicy taste that reminds me of Lindt's Chili but more of an earthy kick. I suppose the cinnamon has something to do with that and I just love cinnamon. It's my favorite spice.

What's funny is that quite halfway through eating Spicy Maya, we found out that the chocolates have inscriptions on them.

Can you read them? It's quite sexy, don't you think? XD 

Eating artisan chocolates is meant to be taken slowly and enjoyed slowly. Eating Chuao chocolates is like an intimate affair with your palate and the chocolate. It's quite a relaxing option of a desert. Ironically, we finished Oh My Smores! in a heartbeat LOL.

As they say at Chuao, if it's not a wow, it's not a CHEW-WOW!  How about you? Have you tried any of the Chuao chocolates? Check out Chuao Chocolatier for more of their alluring chocolates. :3