[Vanity Trove] - Floral Notes

Its the time of the month again!

Here are the wholesome goodies packed in my trove this month (May 2013)!

Bach Rescue Pastilles - Blackcurrent Flavour
Rescue Pastilles are ideal for coping with exam stress, driving tests, first day of school nerves, job interviews and high pressure environments. The original packaging comes in tightly sealed tin with an easy "press on the lid" opening and closing mechanism. In fact, this brand originated from the Bach Flower which I know are famous with stress relieving. Previously my encounter at the Animal Recover Veterinary Centre, we did use the BachFlower Pet Rescue Remedy to help improve the conditions of the sick pets. (:

Nuxe Melting Cleansing Gel
Presenting a range specialise for sensitive skin. The Nuxe Melting Cleansing Gel foams up easily and does not cause any dryness after use. As the name suggests, it melts into your skin for a deep-down clean that doesn't use the harsh qualities of soap. You only need a 10 cent coin sized amount to cleanse your entire face, which applied to moist skin in a circular motion, removes all traces of dirt and debris. It rinses completely and leaves your skin feeling very soft and hydrated.
 
Lunamer Brightener

 
Remember Astalift? Now, a new range of products under the company has been launched and it is called the Lunamer. The product targets at young career woman juggling with high-pressure job together with an active lifestyle (waves). The consistent irregular hours of sleep patterns leaves the body exhausted. As a results, our skin will be more prone to outbreaks, visible pores, tiredness and dull-looking complexion. Now the Lunamer Brightener is here to "rescue" our skin by making it

This revolutionary skin-purifying and energising beauty essence wipes away dullness-causing aged keratin and dirt, and recharges skin by delivering moisturising ingredients deep into the corneal layer. Promises clear healthy skin that readily absorbs the skincare products that follow. Contains fruit acid that softens and removes aged keratin and relieves pore blockage, while Clear Nano Vitamin E detoxifies environmental stress built up in skin. Japanese herb Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract and Crown Sugar help to purify skin, even as moisturising ingredients such as yeast extract nourishes and softens skin for better penetration of skincare products. Contains the highest concentration of star ingredient – Clear Nano Vitamin E – in the Lunamer series, which promotes blood circulation, stimulates skin cell regeneration and prevents collagen degradation. Nano Vitamin A promotes blood circulation and the regeneration of skin cells, while Curcumin activates metabolism-promoting enzymes to generate new skin cells, giving you healthy skin and a clear complexion.

You can read how each ingredient benefit you here

In case you were using it, and noticed some brown stains, it is normal. Because the are the residue of aged keratin and dirt! So be glad it appeared and it will be away from your face forever!. The end result of the product gives a refreshing feeling as well! (: 

Infinity KOSÉ Deep Protection UV 
30g S$54.00 SPF50+/PA++++ , available at all KOSÉ counters
About the Infinity line of KOSÉ, it is targeted at women especially in the mid thirties and beyond, as well as women who are noticing sagging, wrinkles and lack of firmness. Check out the full series here - KOSÉ INFINITY

This product protects the skin from UV-A and UV-B rays with the highest SPF/PA protection. It makes fine wrinkles caused by dryness less visible, and protects the skin’s firmness and elasticity. It claims to bounce back "photo-aging"  such as blemishes and fine wrinkles. It can also be used as a makeup base.

VLV: Upon application, it feels smoothes & light, it can be easily absorbed but turns a lil oily after wearing it only out in the sun for about 20 minutes or so. Because I have combination skin, I can't really use products that contains high amount of SPF. It will adversely create more pimples for me. *sad face*, so the only way I can protect myself from the harmful rays and future pigmentation is to carry my umbrella and apply at least SPF 30+++ when I step out of my house. (:




GO60 Go Hydrate! Treatment Masque
5pcs for S$60, Available at: Esplanade Exchange #B1-24
GO60 is opened by our local beauty chain - Mary Chia. Now everyone has no excuse as to that they are unable to book an appointment slot or don't have time for a full fledge facial. The convenient packaging, allows all types of customers to be able to enjoy the goodness of the product! 

Aqua Rine Peach & Rose Bath Sea Salt 
Close friends of mine would know that I am a huge fan of this Batam body scrub. Which kind of have similar purposes as the Sea Salt Bath - exfoliating dead skin cells.

Only costs less than SGD$3, I usually buy 3 bottles or more when I go there. One bottle can last me about 8 scrubs! A must buy for everyone who decides to go Batam

The thing about exfoliating your dead skin cells is so that your body would be able to look brighter and the products which you apply after the exfoliation, will be absorbed faster than usual. I do this at least once every week, and I make sure I do it, because I wouldn't want my skin to look dull. I mean, think about it, if we do facial masks everyday, and our faces looks extremely fair and bright while our skin looks dull, wouldn't that look really funny ?

Sebamed Feminine Intimate Wash
Sebamed has always been a brand that takes great care of the body's largest organ - the skin. This time round, I'm really surprised (in a good way) to see that it has extended its product line to include intimate care. Personally, I think it is extremely important to keep your V clean and away with all the nasty smell and itch and whats not. Remember, that the V area pH levels are to be kept low, on an average, it should be at the level of 3.5. Depending on your personal lifestyle, the pH level alternates and may rise sometimes, causing you to have an infection. With a wash like that, it helps to balance and keep the area cleanse!

Side Track: I have heard from a close friend of mine, that a certain product in the market that you can find easily, causes more irritation than usual for the public at large, therefore sales for that particular brand hasn't been very well. I do agree with her, as I had used that specific brand before. But luckily, I was kindly sponsored by Lactacyd, and that was when I brand-switched. 

Till the next review

xx
Andrea

[Product Review] Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening Lotion

One Drop Reveals Natural Fairness

A Combination of 3 Types of Hyaluronic Acid for 3X the Hydration Power

Why Hada Labo?
Personally, I have heard many of my friends rave about the original Hada Labo Moisturising Lotion. But I'm not really a big fan of it, I blame it on our extremely sunny weather.

The Hada Labo Skincare philosophy: "PERFECT X SIMPLE" was inspired by traditional Japanese beauty wisdom, Hada Labo adopts a "No More, No Less" philosophy in the formulation of its products. Unnecessary additives such as colourant, fragrance and mineral oil that will burden the skin are omitted. Only beneficial, essential ingredients are retained to ensure maximum effectiveness - Only the best your skin and nothing else...

Side Track: To me, it is equally important that the brand promises what it has stated to the public at large. As a marketer myself, often when I feel that a certain brand doesn't deliver, I will get really frustrated, because if you can't deliver, don't promise. Cause with promise, comes expectation. And life has taught all of us well that if expectations are not met, disappointments are not nice to have. Especially for a marketing personnel. 

What does the product do? 
Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening Range gives users the three benefits in one step! With Arbutin and Vitamin C along with Hyaluronic Acid, Hada Labo's Whitening Range allows us to gain fairer moist and brighter skin!

Fact: Do you know that products with Vitamin C helps your skin to recover faster from scarring and also, helps to brighten and lighten your face! Removing the dull complexion in your face!

Fact 2: Always wondered what Arbutin is? Arbutin is actually an extract from a natural bearberry plant that promises to enhance skin fairness and help fight dark spots! 

Check out their super informative website with full step-by-step regime! Here

The Moisturising Lotion Milk - the Moisturising Lotion & the Arbutin Whitening Lotion

What is the difference between the Hada Labo Moisturising Lotion & the Arbutin Whitening Lotion?
There is a little difference in terms of texture of the product. The Arbutin Whitening Lotion feels a lot lighter in comparison with the Moisturising Lotion. If you ask me what I like better, I would say the Arbutin Whitening Lotion. 

The Arbutin Whitening Lotion

Moisturising Lotion

Would I recommend the product? 
Well I guess this is really up to an individual choice. Personally I have been trying to stick to the Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair regime to see its true effectiveness, so I haven't really tried this product on my face yet. But, I will suggest to people who are less prone to outbreaks. Previously when I was using the moisturising lotion, I will get outbreaks rather frequent cause the moisturising level is way too high for our local weather. But I have heard from a couple of my friends who have tried it before and they do like the texture and after effects of the product. 

I WANT TO TRY!!
That's right! All consumers/readers who are interested to give the product a trial, head on down to Hada Labo Facebook Page here! Redeem your travel size gift(s) today and let me know if you like it!

Till the next review, toodles! 

xx
Andrea

[Product Review] Mentholatum Deep Moist - Natural

MENTHOLATUM DEEP MOIST 
The Ultra Hydrating lipbalm with Hyaluronic Acid
*NEW PACKAGING*

Honestly, I think it is really important to update your customers when you change your product packaging. Sometimes I do get a little bit frustrated when I am not notified or when I don't even know that the product packaging has changed, and it isn't because they stop producing the product. You'll get me as life goes.

Just last August, I had the honour to try out the Mentholatum Lip PureLip Balm Fragrance Free & Lip Gel Honey Lemon . And today, I will be introducing this highly popular lip balm that has made so much promises, it kinda gets a little difficult to believe. But fret not! I'm here to solve the doubts!

Is the brand really reliable?
Launched in 2008, Deep Moist has been making its promise to Japanese and of course everywhere, where the product is available. It has made Mentholatum Lip Balm Brand the #1 Top Selling Lip Balm brand in Japan* (2006 to 2009).

Concentrating on the purpose of the Lip balm, it  contains Premium Hydrating Ingredients. Classy yet Affordable. How to resist?

What does it contain?

1. Hyaluronic Acid, a premium ingredient that forms a smooth, moisture locking shield for softer, smoother lips. It can hold 1000X its weight in water, or 6 litres of water with just 1g.
1. Fact: You can find this product almost everywhere nowadays, especially in facial products. It didn't use to be this popular only until the whole Japan and Korean craze came along
2. Shea Butter heals the skin, and gives a soft, pleasant texture to the lip balm.
1. Fact: In all or actually, most promising handcream with moisturising effect, Shea Butter is often used!
3. Jojoba Oil gives pro-longed, whole day hydration to the lips. 
1. Fact: Did you know that Jojoba Oil can make your furry pets glowy and shiny! Gives their coat a very nice finishing!

How did you use it and how does it feel ?
Glides on really easily, just like all other brands. Moisturises and preps the lips very well for further lipstick/stain application. With more moisturised lips, it can also help to reduce the lines on our lips.

FACT: did you know that the lines on our lips are caused by dehydration..
   

BEFORE

AFTER

 After using the Mentholatum brand for a few good months, I realised that now, I prefer lip balm that does not have that menthol feeling. It feels a lot less dry (I'm very sure it is the product with all the 3 elements mentioned above that creates the smoothness on my lips!), and because I don't really have the habit to wear lip colour everyday, I will use my lip balm to create that extra boost of colour for my lips. Thus far, this product has been doing it!

Will definitely pack this along with me for my trip next!

Till the next review! ;)

xx
Andrea

[Event Review + Beauty Review ] ZA 15th Anniversary Bloggers Event

On the 6th of May, I had the honour to be invited to the ZA 15th Anniversary Bloggers Event held at Windowsill Pies

Let the images fill you with what happened!

My make up was in such a disastrous state as I was wearing my specs in the morning. Have been plagued with eye infection for the past 2 months, and the wearing of contact lenses has been less frequent unless necessary. And of course, this event, I would have to put it on, Otherwise, 怎样见人啊！

Oh Right, and I self-diyed my hair : If you follow me on Instagram @vanitylavie . Think John's gonna kill me after he sees how patchy it is after like.. maybe 5 wash since the day I dyed? It is wayyyyy brighter now. 

Tadah. Patchy & Red Hair. 2nd Day after dye (not washed). NOT DISGUSTING OK. hahaha!

 

The Funny Apple Pie - That tased AMEHHHHZING. Love how soft the crust was and the sourness and sweetness of the apples were perfect. Then again, I still love the apple pie that can be found at the bakery near my area. Its called - the Galicier Confectionary @ Serangoon. They have the best pineapple tarts also!

The Vodka Lime Pie - That's right, its Vodka Lime Pie. The only time I had vodka is with a mixer. This time round its different being in a pie. But a little too sour for me. It would definitely be a refreshing dessert if you are trying to clean your palette after a heavy lunch or dinner (:

The Hardworking team who painfully removed all the beautifully hung up pop art!

I was also given this new casing that was designed by Naho Ogawa! Check out more of her artwork here

 
The products will be exclusive at Watsons stores on the 4^th July 2013 (my birthday!) and the designer case retails at $9.90 while the foundation retails at $18.50.

Previously, I was given the shade of OC20, and I found it a little more dull than my usual foundation, so I use it for shading purposes. While this time round, I was given the OC0W which blends into my skin more perfectly! On days when I didn't feel like slapping on to much product, I pick up the product with my blusher/shading brush and brush it all over my face and this action is followed by patting excess powder on my "more required" areas to cover up the blemishes.

Check out more shades here

Pardon me, that it is dirty! But it proves I use it!!

I have to rave about this fact that the new formula of the ZA Concealer works miracles. It blends out easily and does not create crease lines. I'm already on my second tube since the first time I was introduced at the previous workshop. Loved it! 

So kudos to ZA, and I hope that the brand continues to strive to produce great products! 

And I bumped into my Secondary School Band Mate - Regina! On the way home! Miss those days ):

  

A happy, contented customer signing off

-- > Andrea
 

[Product Review] The Olay Regenerist Serum & Eyelash Duo!

Remember this?

Just a few weeks ago, I was introduced to this whole new range by Olay called the Regenerist. On top of the Micro-Sculpting Cream that was given to me, I also had the honour to try out 2 other products.

The Regenerist Revitalising Serum 
Benefits of the product:
- Renew skin’s youthful look
- Deliver deep penetrating anti-aging ingredients into skin’s epidermis layer
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with moisturisation
- Exfoliate and smooth skin

Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Eye Cream & Lash Serum Duo
Benefits of the product
• Instantly thickens the appearance of lashes
• Firmer, smoother-looking lids
• Softened appearance of lines
• Younger-looking eyes that are brighter and firmer in just one week

How to use it?  
The Regenerist Revitalising Serum should be used just like your other Serum - apply them after cleansing. Please apply all serum in an upward motion, because this tiny little massage everyday, will help your face defy gravity for that few minutes/hours/days/weeks and help slow down the signs of aging. So don't complain and start doing!

There are two ways to use this product. For the Eye cream, dab it under your eyes gently and do it with upwards motion. This will help to soften the appearance of lines and create the smooth looks of the lids.

As for the use of the lash brush, twist the wand out of the serum bottle and weep the serum onto your lashes. It instantly coats, thicken and nourish your lashes. When it dries, you can also place your favourite mascara on. But I only use it at night before I sleep. Juts in case, it causes my mascara to smudge.  

Would you recommend either? 
Because I have my own skincare routine that I try to stick close to very religiously, I try not to include other brands, just in case my face becomes overly sensitive over it. Occasionally, when I feel like doing a short massage or a leave-on-masks, I would prep my face with the Olay Regenerist Serum and massage a generous quantity into my face. After that, I leave a thick layer of the Micro-sculpting Cream on my face to allow the rest of the goodness to be absorbed. I leave it on for about 15 minutes, then I'll wash it off and apply another thin layer of the serum. The next day when I wake up, my skin feels more firm and I can see that the laugh lines that I claim to have, are not that obvious.

As for the Eye Cream and Lash Serum Duo, I would need to review this separately. For the eye cream, I very honestly, find it a tad bit too oily for me. I know that the product is able to dissolve or should I "water soluble". But despite the fact, I still find it a tad bit oily, and I dont really like the feeling after application. 

Whereas, the Lash Serum Duo is an entirely new product that I have never tried before. But sometimes, I can get lazy, and I forget all about the Lash Serum Duo. But I have to say that if you're going for the casual "bo chup" look, just slap on some Lash Serum Duo, it does create a thicker appearance of lashes! (: 
 

Once again, thank you CozyCot & Olay for sponsoring the products! Thank you readers for reading and have a great day ahead!

Woohoo

xx

Andrea