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

Human Heart Nature Natural Shampoo with CREAM Foam® Review - Strengthening and Moisturizing variants

As you may have known recently that I got my self some aloe products for various needs. One of them is hair fall. I'm having falling hair issues ever since I got my hair permed and colored. The need to control falling hair is important. My hair is literally every where!

I've tried different commercial shampoos and conditioners. I even alternately wash my hair in a week, use non-static combs and brushes, or no combing and brushing at all... but my hair is still falling.

I've been using Human Heart Nature products for quite some time now. I've tried their body soaps, facial washes and toners, and even had my family use them, too. But I've never tried their shampoos because I'm not a fan of shampoos that don't give you enough bubble and lather, hehehe. Well, that said, I'm not a fan of non-sulfate, organic shampoos - yes, the ones that are chemically-produced and destroy the Earth. Yes, I'm guilty of that. DX

However, I convinced my self to use one from Human Heart Nature because of my pesky falling hair. DX I first used Human Heart Nature Natural Shampoo with CREAMFoam®  - Strengthening in Soothing Aloe.

Human Heart Nature Natural Shampoo with CREAMFoam®  - Strengthening in Soothing Aloe

The scent reminded me of my Lola. She used to rub aloe vera on her hair when we still had pots of aloe vera in our mini garden. It's not overpowering. It gives off a faint aloe vera smell when you lather up. It is barely recognizable after you have toweled dry your hair.

Human Heart Nature Natural Shampoo with CREAMFoam® - Strengthening in Soothing Aloe in a nutshell

What I like:

• It makes your hair clean, despite it's organic that you might think it cannot get the sweat and grime off your scalp. 
• It did not give me any dandruff, either. 
• It dramatically lessened my hair fall. I could literally just count strands of hair on the floor when sweeping. I could sweep a bunch of fur balls as compared before. XD

What I don't like:

• It make makes my hair dull, stiff, hard (? LOL). It's quite hard to run my fingers through it. Using a comb would be challenging, a brush would do well. 

Will I repurchase?

No. Too bad that the cons outweighs the cons on this one (though, quantitatively, it does not). I just cannot reconcile the fact that it makes my hair stiff that I had to use a conditioner so that my hair could be soft (a commercial, chemically-produced conditioner, that is). I still managed to finish one, 250 ml bottle (because it's sayang XD). Just had to use conditioner to rub down the issues.

So because of that, after a month of still consoling my self on using organic shampoo, I bought another one from Human Heart Nature. This time it's the Human Heart Nature Natural Shampoo with CREAMFoam® - Moisturizing in Lush Vanilla.

Human Heart Nature Natural Shampoo with CREAMFoam® - Moisturizing in Lush Vanilla

I read the reviews and the ingredients of this one, just like the Strengthening one, again and again from the Human Heart Nature site for the nth time because I'm skeptical and I do not want to be disappointed again. I found out that the Moisturizing one contains Aloe barbadensis, which is the scientific name for aloe vera. So I was hoping that it could also lessen my hair fall. That actually pushed my doubts aside and bought one.

Human Heart Nature Natural Shampoo with CREAMFoam® - Moisturizing in Lush Vanilla in a nutshell

What I like:

• It also dramatically lessens my hair fall.
• It makes my hair soft, even without the need of a conditioner, as opposed to the strengthening one.

What I am neutral about:

• It gives off a sweet vanilla scent, like candy, that diminishes in an hour or two - depending on the ratio of water that you diluted the shampoo with. I hope the scent stays longer. I'm a fan!

What I don't like:

• My hair is still frizzy even if it's moisturizing. I can't totally blame the shampoo on that since my hair is color-treated and has undergone perming.

Will I repurchase?

I probably will! :D


Human Heart Nature Strengthening and Moisturizing Shampoos Overall:

I have to accept the fact that they are organic, sulfate-free and will not lather to my expectations, as that of the chemically-produced shampoos. The trick to this is to dilute the shampoo with water and make it bubble and foamy. This will also avoid having dandruff issues.

The CREAMFoam® technology on the other hand, softens and brings back lackluster, limp and dry hair. Though they still have mixed reviews, I believe it's just a matter of truly finding the right one that suits your hair and scalp chemistry. The positive raves on these shampoos, actually outweigh the negatives. And mind you, they even have a shampoo and conditioner duo for salon-treated hair. I just might give them a try.

Human Heart Nature Strengthening and Moisturizing shampoos really do work, though the results vary from every person. Just don't fret, they already have a lot of options to choose from.  Visit Human Heart Nature for more information!

Have you tried Human Heart Nature shampoos? Which one do you like? Please do share! (#^o^#)

Quest for cravings [Satisfied!]: Hansel Premium Matcha Green Tea

Ever since I tasted and sniffed green tea, it has been one of my quests whenever I got some cravings. From tea, milk tea, chocolates, lotions, green tea is must-have for that seasonal wants.

And to my delight, someone shared this,

Hansel Premium Matcha Green Tea
Photo taken from Hansel Premium Official Facebook page.

Their Cheese Sandwich never disappoints so I believe this one, too! I don't know if it's only available for a limited time because it's a limited edition flavor. XD It is currently available in the following stores:

• All outlets of Rustan's and Shopwise
• Landmark Trinoma and Makati 
• Most of Puregold and Robinson's outlets

[U P D A T E 101216]

A day after posting my discovery, my quest began on locating Hansel Premium Matcha Green Tea cracker sandwich.  I went to the nearest grocery, hoping that they have it. Too bad, it wasn't there. Good thing, when I went to the nearest Puregold, I found one!

I bought one just to try to taste. XD

Upon opening, you can smell the brewed aroma of Matcha green tea. You don't even have to take a bite and know that it's all Matcha.

I can sniff this all day long.~~~

For guys who are used to the sweet and savory fillings of the regular and premium cracker sandwiches of Hansel, you may get a little bit of getting used to with the earthy taste of Matcha green tea. It's not sweet, it doesn't taste like leaves (for guys who usually think that Matcha green tea gives off a taste like grass). Think of drinking a warm cup of Matcha green tea latte with less of the milk and more of the tea.

Still can't imagine the taste? Hurry to the nearest grocery near you and try this one out! :D

Are you a green tea lover too?

Visit Hansel Premium Official Facebook page for more information.




Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. I'm just so happy to find this. :D

Aloe Vera: A Multi-product with Multiple Benefits!

I just realized that I am quite a fan of multi-products or products that contains ingredients that have multiple benefits. Am I just repeating myself? XD Well, to name a few, we have sunflower oil, argan oil, olive oil, and aloe vera.

I remember when I was younger, the women in my family put aloe vera on their hair. I also remember that my Omma bought some aloe vera juice to prevent asthma attacks for my brother and to boost the immune system. I don't really like it because it was slimy and just yucky altogether.

Aloe Vera is quite the rave recently because of its numerous benefits. It's not only for the hair but also for the skin! Here are some of the benefits:

• Prevents Signs Of Aging
• Moisturizes Skin
• Reduces Acne And Helps Lighten Blemishes
• Helps With Sunburns And Reduces Tan
• Heals External Wounds And Insect Bites
• Reduces Stretch Marks
• Promotes Hair Growth
• Reduces Dandruff
• Maintains pH Balance Of The Scalp
• Conditions Hair

Recently, I have (or need to have) products that has aloe vera as the major component. My legs dried out as the Sahara maybe because of the abnormal sleeping time and diet DX.  So, I need to moisturize it really big time without having to suffer with oily-ness or with the sticky, muggy feel. I also got a shampoo fortified with aloe vera to prevent too much hair fall. And I got a moisturizer for my face! Hopefully, I can share my findings on some, or not on all, of them. XD

(L-R) Human Heart Nature Natural Shampoo with CreamFoam, Strengthening for brittle, falling hair in smoothing aloe; The Face Shop Jeju Aloe 99% Fresh Soothing Gel; Glysomed Body Lotion with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E.
Images taken from Google Images.

How about you? Do you use products that contains ingredients that have multiple benefits? Please do share. :3


source: http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-benefits-of-aloe-vera-for-skin-hair-and-health/

Facial Moisturizers Are For Oily-Skin Girls, Too!

If you have oily skin, you may think that wearing moisturizers would be such a hassle. You may think that your skin may be more oily; you can't wear moisturizers under your makeup because it may just slide; the feeling will be muggy, especially during hot and humid days. In the Philippines, there more hot and humid days rather than cool days. And there are more enough reasons for girls with oily skin NOT to wear moisturizers.

Well, I thought so too.

Until recently, I stumbled on articles and even blogs that even if you have oily skin, you should wear moisturizers. As early as 20 years old, the proteins that keep our skin elastic, supple and moisturized may lose gradually. Diet, hormones, season and weather changes may be the contributing factors. So looking for the right moisturizer for your skin type is a must to keep our skin healthy.

Moisturizers are not only for the ones that have dry skin.  I found that there are also that are formulated for oily skin girls.  Gel or water-based one work well for oily skin girls and on those hot, humid days!

Here are some moisturizers fit for oily skin.
Images taken from Google

If you read my previous blog, I tried one with a cream-type moisturizer. It has spf and quite light for a cream-type. It can work with oily skin but with caution. If you put too much, it may cause your skin to be more oily. Maybe, if your skin is on the dry to combination side or not too oily like me, it may just work for you!

As for me, I really haven't found my Holy Grail moisturizer, yet. I'm still on the verge for looking for one and I'm not giving up! :D

How about you, do you use moisturizers? What's your HG? :3

Belo Intensive Whitening Face and Neck cream Review

Sometimes, when you just want something for everyday that moisturizes and protects you from the sun, putting on BB or CC creams can be a hassle. Especially, when you're just running on simple errands or if you just want to dry your clothes under the sun, you don't need to glam it up, right? Not unless... XD

Because of that particular reason, I bought to try Belo Intensive Whitening Face and Neck cream.

Belo Intensive Whitening Face and Neck cream with Spf 30

This product says that it's for intensive whitening, made with Kojic Acid and Tranexamic Acid.  Hand in hand, they inhibit the production of melanin that makes your skin whiter [info from packaging].  This also makes stubborn dark spots lighter.  Well, I do have pimple marks and some scars that I want to lighten. So that's an added plus for me.

Belo Intensive Whitening Face and Neck cream with Spf 30, made more effective with Kojic and Tranexamic acid.

One of the sides says about the features of the product, Kojic and Tranexamic acid .  Written also are directions on how to apply for best results.

The other side has the ingredients, how much it is, and its manufacturer.  Proudly made by Pinoy! 

The expiration is indicated at the back.

Out of the box, you get a 50 gram tub.

When you open it, there's a provided spatula. You don't have to dip your fingers in it. :D

I've used this sporadically during the summer, when I didn't use a CC cream when going out.  But I haven't worn it before under  the CC cream, since I felt that the CC cream is already moisturizing my face without the added sebum.

The texture looks quite creamy but it's actually light can be absorbed by the skin immediately. The thing is if you have oily skin like me, it might feel sticky if you put more than enough.

Recently, I've tried wearing it under The Face Shop Photo Blur BB Cream.  This BB cream doesn't really have moisturizing properties and given with the cool, rainy season, my oily skin tends to be drier (hence, more oil production and another post :D)

The Belo Intensive Whitening Face and Neck cream works fine under the BB cream. It's moisturizing enough and creates a fine base for the BB cream. The BB cream glides nicely on the skin. Though, because of my oily skin, I have to be careful. If I put too much, it would cause my face to oil so much. Ironically, though it is cool in the office, my face gets dry. The sides of my nose gets flaky a bit. So I'm wondering if I am not using enough or this product is just not that hydrating. Again, the thing is, if I use too much, I would be a frying pan once I go out from the office. It would feel muggy! Also, I haven't used this under the CC cream last summer, because it was sooo humid. #Oilyskingirlproblems DX

Belo Intensive Whitening Face and Neck cream in a nutshell

What I like:

• Has spf 30
• Light and can be absorbed by the skin immediately.
• A little goes a really, really long way.

What I don't like:

• If you have oily skin and put on too much, it can feel a little bit sticky, especially on hot, humid days.

Will I repurchase?

Maybe. I'm torn with the fact that it has spf (pro) and the muggy feel (con).  But let's see how this product goes for me.  I've got no adverse reaction from using the cream, such as getting more zits or rashes. Nothing happened like that to me. So, let's see. :D

How about you, have you tried the Belo Intensive Whitening Face and Neck cream?  Please do share your thoughts about it.

Know more about Belo Intensive Whitening on their Facebook page.