Sunscreen guide for use

  Bonjour Shopcoholics!

With the scorching heat this summer, please don't ever forget to wear your sunscreen. I cannot stress this enough! 

Persistent sun exposure without using sunscreen can cause premature aging, wrinkles, sun spots, and skin discoloration. 

Here's just a quick guide on how to use sunscreens.

Sharing my favorite sunscreen and BB cream with high SPF  in no particular order: 

Basic Skincare Routine

 

Till next time,

Dewha Baby Glow bundle review (Serum and Mask)

Hello Shopcoholics!

 It’s been a long time since I reviewed a skincare product. I am very picky when it comes to applying stuff on my face, but one thing is for sure… I am usually hiyang with Korean skincare products. Excited to share with you my experience with this magical duo.

 

 Dewha Baby Glow Bundle with free organizer (Php 2,099)

1 pc. Gold Intense serum 50 ml

1 box Intense Hydrating Essence mask (5 pcs)

Innisfree Green tea and Volcanic Skincare line review

Hello Shopcoholics! If you followed me on Instagram, you'll know that I love Innisfree's Green Tea skin care line. I had it in my cart for a few months but I was hesitant to buy the full sized bottles at first because I am not sure if it will work for me.

 I saw a trial kit available at Shopee for less than 300 pesos and decided to give it a try. In fairness, the mini sizes lasted for more than a month, and I am surprised with the results. After trying it out, I was confident to buy the full sized ones and I am very glad that the green tea line works for me. 

Innisfree New Packaging 2020 vs old packaging (Pic below)

Althea Korea's 2nd birthday + contests + haul

Hello Shopcoholics! Sorry for being MIA for a few months. 

If you follow me on instagram, I posted about Althea's birthday month this July. 

Happy 2nd birthday to Althea Korea! Cheers to another fruitful year  

 Thank you for giving us the cheapest prices on our favorite k-beauty products!

 As you all know, Althea is my favorite K-beauty shop. Aside from the very affordable prices compared to malls, they also offer free shipping for orders php 999 and above. Aside from that, you are sure that you are getting 101% authentic Korean products because it is shipped fresh from Korea and will be delivered to your doorstep within 7-14 days.

 

 Here's my beauty and skincare haul. So happy that I have finally bought the rest of Innisfree's Green tea skincare line. I have tried the green tea facial foam, skin balancing toner and lotion and I really love the results. 

Will post my updated skincare routine next time.

Here's what I got:

Innisfree green tea seed serum (80 ml) Php 820

Innisfree green tea fresh essence (80 ml) Php 618

Innisfree green tea sleeping pack (80 ml) Php 590

BareBlanc Pink Tender cream (freebie)

The Saem White tea healing garden cleansing water (300 ml) Php 270

Missha Undereye brightener (Light Beige) Php 150

Missha The Style 4D mascara Php 170

Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream #21 Php 560

More freebies!!! Yipee!!

Hurry, you too can get your own Cake box when you shop on Althea this July! Please visit www.althea.kr to check out their :

Amazing Althea Birthday Sale

Birthday Giveaway (Free Beauty Products for shoppers to add into cart everyday)

Althea Birthday Goodies (Limited Edition Box + DIY Bday Kit + Sample Pack)

FLY ME TO KOREA for TWO contest

Contests to win prizes (please also check their Instagram page)

Terms & conditions apply, for more info please check their site www.althea.kr

Till next time, 

November 2015 Favorites (Skincare)

Hello Ladies!

It's been a while since I have posted a review of the skincare products that I am currently using and loving. That's why I've decided to do a round-up for you guys on my favorite products dedicated to skincare.

 Bifesta Cleansing Express Eye Makeup Remover - Php 300 (145 ml) at Watsons

The oil and water formula mixes together to quickly remove waterproof eye makeup without stinging the eyes. 

Sunkiller Perfect Water Essence Spf 50 - Php 499 (50 ml) at Watsons

It is non-sticky, lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin due to its unique watery gel texture. I love the cooling effect it gives, plus this product doesn't have the typical chemical scent compared to other sunscreens.

Mary Kay Skinvigorate Cleansing Brush - Php 2,190 via Mary Kay Beauty Consultants

I've been curious about cleansing brushes like Clarisonic, but I cannot justify the hefty price tag. Imagine paying Php 5-8k for a product that you are not even sure if it works for you right?! I'm glad I've found a cheaper alternative and at the same time works for me! I only use this once a week (nighttime) together with the Mary Kay Foaming Cleanser with MELA-CP (Php 785 for 100 ml). I immediately noticed that my skin looks radiant and glowing whenever I use this.

 BN Extreme Whitening Face and Body Soap - Php 180 (220 g) at BN Whitening Shop

This soap contains glutathione, rose hip, kojic acid and arbutin to exfoliate and lighten the skintone. This is my 3rd bar already and I am quite satisfied with the results. I only use it on my body because i find it a bit drying when used on the face.

BN Whitening Scar Cream - Php 168 (10g); Php 294 (20g); Php 525 (40g)

Hormonal imbalance and stress causes breakouts especially on the chin area. I use this cream to lighten and dry up my pimples, and usually would notice results 3-5 days after application.

Olay Natural White Hydrating Glow Toner - Php 299 (150 ml) at Watsons

I think my skin got immune already to the old toner I am using. My fashion blogger friend Sweet recommended it to me when I asked her what skincare products she's using. I did her makeup during their Giordano Bank on Basics shoot and I can't help but notice how glowing her skin looks. This toner is alcohol-free which I love and doesn't cause breakouts.

Physiogel AI Lotion- Php 560 (100 ml) at Watsons

This moisturising lotion is heaven sent for super sensitive skin like mine. Hypoallergenic, contains no colorants, perfume and preservatives. I only use this on my face 2x a week during nighttime to moisturise and hydrate my skin.

 

 Purederm Makeup Remover Wipes (Argan oil and Collagen variants) - Php 80 each at Watsons

These inexpensive makeup wipes removes my face makeup (BB Cream and powder) gently and effectively without drying my skin. Does not remove waterproof eye makeup.

The Argan oil variant restores hydration and softness, while the Collagen one is anti-aging. I have tried Nivea's makeup wipes, the Hydrating and Exfoliating ones but I like Purederm better coz it doesn't irritate my skin.

 Hope you enjoyed reading my skincare favorites. 
 

Till next time, 

 

Review: MAC Mineralize Charged Water Moisture Gel

Product Info from MAC website:

An ultra-light, gel-like cream that absorbs instantly to give the skin intense hydration. Infused with our exclusive Super-Charged Water technology, this formula leaves skin softer, more luminous. Use day or night.

CLAIMS:

* skin appears smoother and more luminous over time.

* absorbs into skin and providing immediate (68%) and long term hydration (25%) and helps skin's radiance immediately (32%) and over time (24%).
* provides 77 bio-available minerals to help nourish the skin.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS:

* Aloe leaf extract

* Gemstones (Rhodochrosite and Diamond powder)

* Potassium, Magnesium, Sodium and Zinc for skin nutrition

RETAIL PRICE: Php 2,100 (about $50)

WEIGHT: 50 ml

PROS:
* non-greasy and fast absorbing

* instantly my skin feels moisturised without the greasy after feel

* makes a nice base under makeup

* unscented

* my skin felt hydrated the whole day 

* no breakouts
* the tub contains a lot of product. I think this will last me a year even with daily use.

CONS:
* no spf if you use this during daytime

* tub packaging is not hygenic

* some may find the price expensive

TIPS: 

* to avoid contaminating the product, use a spatula or a cotton bud to transfer a small amount of moisturiser into a small container. Bought mine at Watsons for less than Php 50 with a spatula. 

I RECOMMEND THIS TO:

Those who are looking for a non-greasy and oil-free moisturiser. For all skintypes.

OVERALL:

I've been using this for more than a month already and I love it! I use this during daytime after toning my face with NU Skin's Napca Moisture mist and before applying my Dr. Jart Silver Label Spf 35++ BB cream. My skin now is sensitive and so far I didn't experience breaking out with it. I'm also using the Mineralized Charge Water Eye cream and will share my thoughts about it soon.

More pics (click to enlarge) 

Till next time,

 

Skincare products I'm loving...

You may click the photos to read the product description.

St. Ives Daily Microdermabrasion Scrub
Php 200+ at Watsons.

I use this once a week. The beads are smaller compared to the Apricot scrub.
My friend Raine also loves this! *Ehem* Hollie, you should give this a try!

Check out Raine's review HERE.

St. Ives Apricot Scrub
Php 239.75 at Watsons.

Been using this product for more than 5 years already. I use this on my face, elbows and feet!
This product effectively removes whiteheads on the sides of my nose.

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque
Php 350 at Healthy Options.

After reading BabyjapRN and Raine's review I immediately purchased one and I'm glad I did! My face immediately felt firmer after using it and I can really feel the mask absorbing the impurities on my face. The following day I've also noticed that my face is less oily especially my T-zone.

Muji Cleansing Oil (Sensitive Skin)
HK$ 120 for 400 ml

I asked my brother in law to buy this for me since we don't have a Muji Store here in Cebu.
I only need 2-3 pumps for my whole face to remove stubborn makeup (BB cream, foundation etc). I use a separate eye makeup remover to remove waterproof mascara and eyeliner. Been using this for almost 2 weeks and so far I can say I'm hiyang with it.


Have you tried any of these products?
What's your favorite mask/scrub?

Till next time,

Review : Burt's Bees Res-q Ointment

PRODUCT INFO FROM BURT'S BEES:

This all-natural, invigorating balm blends menthol, eucalyptus, corn mint and clove oils to revive muscles after a day of strenuous work or play. This penetrating blend of essential oils relaxes your mind and body and prepares them for another day of adventure in the great outdoors.Comfrey contains allantoin, a cell proliferant, which stimulates new cell growth and increases cell production to support more rapid healing. Comfrey aids in soothing inflammation, burns, wounds, swelling and bites. 95.7% Natural

RETAIL PRICE: Will check. Available at Beauty Bar.

WEIGHT: 17 grams

PROS:
* made of natural ingredients
* can be used on both kids and adults
* has a relaxing smell
* tin can is convenient to carry
* multi-purpose product
* balm like texture, you only need a small amount.
* greenish color but goes clear when applied

CONS:
* packaging is not hygenic


USES:
* I've noticed dry patches & slight swelling on my upper lip the following day after eating a spicy pancit canton... maybe I'm allergic to spicy foods?! So I applied this ointment on my lips for almost a week and I noticed the swelling lessened and my lip condition got better.
* my 2-year old daughter is super sensitive to mosquito bites. Everytime she's bitten, it swells up and I'm guessing it must be very itchy because my daughter scratches it until it bleeds. I applied this ointment right after she was bitten and I noticed she wasn't scratching it anymore and the swelling minimized after 2 days.
* I tried applying this on my cystic pimples and I was amazed coz my pimples dried up after 4-5 days and it didn't darken unlike other pimple treatments I've tried.
* My friend who recommended this product told me this can also be used on the undereye area. I tried it and it feels so relaxing, but I'm sticking to my Celeteque Advanced Anti-wrinkle moisturiser as my eye cream hehe =)
* You can also use this product on minor cuts, bumps, scrapes, burns, and diaper rash.

ADDICTION FACTOR:

Will definitely repurchase! Thanks Raine for recommending this miracle product!

RATING : 4/5

More pics (click to enlarge)

Swatch

Till next time,

Review: Dickinsons Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner

Product Info from Dickinsons:

Since 1866, our original formula is still the only gentle, non-irritating, oil-controlling skincare product made with 100% Natural Witch Hazel. Our natural facial toners and facial cleansers gently removes excess oil and impurities without overdrying, leaving your skin soft, smooth and naturally balanced.

BENEFITS:
* refines pores
* removes & controls oil
* soothes irritation
* locks in moisture

RETAIL PRICE: Php 200+ at Healthy Options.

WEIGHT: 473 ml / 16 fl. oz

PROS:
* no stinging sensation
* feels refreshing
* non-drying ; good for all skintypes.
* my face feels firmer after every use
* its been 3 weeks since I started using this product and I've noticed that my pores became smaller and I'm having less breakouts.

CONS:

* it took me days before getting used to the herbal scent.

TIPS:
* Remove makeup using makeup remover/cleanser.
* Wash face with your favorite facial wash.
* Moisten a cotton pad with toner and gently apply on your face to remove facial wash & makeup residue. Using a toner also preps your skin for moisturiser.
* Follow with moisturiser and eye cream.


ADDICTION FACTOR:
Will finish the bottle first and lets see if there are any major improvements. I used Celeteque Alcohol-free toner before but I decided to switch brands coz I think I'm already immune with it.

RATING : 4/5

Ingredients List
(click to enlarge)

Are toners part of your skincare regimen?
If so, what toner are you using?

Till next time,

Review : L'oreal White Perfect Fairness Control Day Cream

PRODUCT INFO from L'oreal:

Double action:
1. Helps neutralize the program of melanin production at source*.
- It helps neutralize the enzyme that contributes to the melanin program.
2. Helps unload existing melanin in skin layers*
- It works to help remove the cells loaded with melanin to brighten up skin complexion.

Benefits:
1. More Transparent skin
2. More Healthy glow
3. Protection against UV induced skin darkening.

RETAIL PRICE: Php 595.00

WEIGHT: 50 ml


PROS:
* has spf 17

* smells nice, no weird sunblock scent
* easy to spread
* consistency is thick but cream is easily absorbed.
* non-sticky
* my face looks glowing when I use this! Swear!
* no whitish cast (when applied sparingly)

CONS:

* glass jar is kinda heavy to tote around
* I wish it came with a pump.
* After using it for a few days I got tiny bumbs on my forehead =(

TIPS:
After washing your face, apply a thin layer of L'oreal Day cream. Let it absorb for a few minutes before applying primer and/or foundation.

ADDICTION FACTOR:

I really love the glowing effect it gives me, but too bad I'm allergic =.(

RATING : 2.5/5

More pics / Swatches

(click photos to enlarge)

Slightly blended.

Till next time,

Disclaimer: Product was sent for review purposes.
This is not a paid review and is solely based on my honest opinions.