EMPTIES: Of all sorts for 2014

I'm pretty sure I did a product empties post before, but I can't seem to find the label. Mmhmm. Should probably do this more often, but it's so much trouble trying to keep the empty bottles when you're trying to keep your room 'tidy'. Lol. But anyway, here are some of the products that I have used up this year. Just some of them. Heh.

Nivea's Extra Whitening Cell Repair and Protect Body Milk
What it is: This milk contains concentrated Camu Camu and Acerola Cherry with 50x higher Vitamin C, which translates to 50x whitening power, and helps to repair the 10 signs of dull and damaged skin; dark spots, rough, itchy, flaky, cracked, tight, dry, dull, uneven, accumulated dull and sun-damaged skin. It also has UVA and UVB filters to prevent skin from re-darkening and has Hydra IQ which provides non-stop 24h+ moisture and reveals smoother skin within 14 days of regular use.

What I think: OMG, I had this for the longest time. It just refused to be used up. Lol. I bought this mainly to use it at night, after finishing my Nivea Body UV Whitening Serum SPF25 PA++. I like that it is lightweight and absorbs into the skin easily. But the whitening properties are not quite evident. It's probably because I'm rather fair already (Or so I have been told. But I don't think I am...), but anyway, I didn't get any darker when I was using this. So it's good for maintenance purposes for me, I suppose! I won't repurchase this again though, just because I have so many other lotions and this didn't really stand out.

Lush's Roots Hair Treatment
What it is: Infused with fresh mint and peppermint and spearmint oils, this hair and scalp treatment revitalizes the scalp, so that healthy hair starts at the roots. Extra virgin oil and honey soften and condition hair to make it shine without weighing it down. It gives dull, fine and thin hair volume and shine.

What I think: I use this so irregularly that I can't really comment on the shine. And I don't have fine and thin hair... So I shouldn't have bought this. LOL. I believe I told the SA that I wanted something to combat loss of hair (Stressful period, aye.). Hahaha. But anything that has peppermint needs to be in my toilet. Anyway, it does really make my scalp feel really good and 'awake' after each use. I really love the scent of it and how the ingredients are mostly natural. I might just repurchase this when I have extra moolah!

Fresh's Sugar Face Polish
What it is: This nourishing exfoliant is made with pure brown sugar and strawberry seeds. It refines and hydrates for a more radiant complexion.

What I think: I first came across this facial scrub in Catherine Walsh's Into the Gloss interview. I just love how Catherine looks; that silver pixie crop and matte red lipstick... That's what I'm having when I'm older. Anyway, this scrub is so good for my parched cheeks. I haven't got poreless skin like Catherine's BUT my skin just feels so healthy, soft and plump with moisture after using it. I usually leave it on for like half an hour or more. Haha. It's quite pricey so I usually stock up during Sephora's member sales. (:

Decléor's Aroma Confort Moisturizing Milk
What it is: Suitable for all skin types, this moisturizer envelops the skin in a comforting and protective layer of moisture. It re-hydrates the skin, improves skin's elasticity and firmness, enhancing the overall appearance of the skin and giving it a velvety smoothness.

What I think: This was an okay moisturizer. It did make my skin soft and smooth, but so do other moisturizers. I like how light it felt though.

Lancôme's Miracle Eau de Parfum
What I think: This is actually my scent when I was in upper secondary school and JC. And I used to 'bathe' in it; I sprayed on so much that my friends could locate where I was just by sniffing. Haha. A friend mentioned that I smelled like sunshine. Haha. I just like it because it was feminine but it wasn't overwhelming. And I like that I smelled like sunshine. :D

DKNY's Be Delicious Eau de Parfum
What I think: Mum got me this for Christmas and then, got me another bottle when she was at the airport and then, I got myself one at a sale. Lol. I love how refreshing and fruity this smells, but I wish it was a little stronger and lasted a little longer.

Weleda's Indulgent Body Lotion Kit
What it is: This starter kit is a convenient way to sample each body lotion and is perfect for travelling. Each formulation is distinguished by its holistic approach to stimulating and inspiring the body, mind and soul to achieve inner balance and boost one's own natural beauty. For a quick reference, (from left to right) Wild Rose Pampering Body Lotion - normal to dry skin, Pomegranate Regeneration Body Lotion - maturing skin, Citrus Hydrating Body Lotion - normal skin and Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion - dry skin.

What I think: I came across this brand on Vivawoman and many Into the Gloss interviews, and so decided to get this kit on iHerb when it was available (It's perpetually OOS.). The body lotions make simple, fuss-free moisturizers and their scents are sooo good, calming and relaxing that I go to bed with the happiest thoughts.

Caudalíe's Beauty Elixir
What it is: Inspired by Queen Isabelle of Hungary’s elixir of youth, this powerful plant based anti-dull complexion treatment smooths away fine lines, tightens pores and gives the complexion an instant boost of radiance.

What I think: Haha. I really just bought this for fun, during one of Sephora's member sales. It was refreshing and minty, yes. But after going through 2 small bottles of it, I still didn't see any visible effects? Haha. I'm so hopeless with facial sprays anyway.

VMV Hypoallergenics's Id Monolaurin Gel
What it is: This gel is packed with a unique, skin-safe, coconut-derived antibacterial called monolaurin. It can be used as a treatment for sweat acne on the face, chest, back, arms, posterior, thighs etc., disinfects skin. and works as a mattifier to control shine and keep skin feeling cool and fresh.

What I think: Do you see those 2 bottles?!? Haha. I LOVE THIS GEL TO BITS. It really helps with back acne and works great as a deodorant, without drying out the skin too drastically. Some nights, I apply this on my face but the alcohol does bother me a little. But yes, I love this and have a backup bottle in my stash!

SPOTTED: You're Invited to SK-II Festive Party!

This is for the SK-II fans!

From 19th to 21st Dec, spend $500 on SK-II products in a single receipt at SK-II TANGS Orchard or TANGS Vivo to join in the SK-II Festive Party on 21st December at TANGS SEVIIN.

You will get to enjoy food, drinks and even a free makeover at the party from 2pm to 6pm! :D

Merry SK-II Christmas, in advance!

HAUL: The Final iHerb Haul 2014

Since discovering iHerb early last year, it has been my to-go place for most things. It's where I get my supplements, my ingredients for DIY beauty stuff, my 'healthy' makeup etc. This year's final haul isn't as extensive as last year's, but it's my biggest iHerb one so far (Hauling a lot less now, because I'm in the midst of discovering K-beauty.).

Here's what I got:

• LavAzza's Caffè Espresso: I love coffee as a face and body scrub. It leaves behind the smoothest and healthiest-feeling skin! Be extra gentle when you're using on the face though as the grinds can be pretty coarse! The sister had been providing me with coffee grinds until she decided to make Dublin her home for a year. I tried commercial body scrubs but somehow, they just aren't good enough for me. Haha. This is a new brand that I'm trying out!
• Now Foods' Aloe Vera Gels: I have been taking them every morning for the past year. When I first took them, I felt less lethargic. It's probably psychological but there's no harm in adding them to my diet. Heh.
• Arrowhead Mills' Organic Oat Flour: When I had my rash, I made little oat packs with this. After showering, I soaked a pack in water and basically just rubbed it over the affected areas. It really helped calm the rash. I also used a pack for my face and it was moisturizing, so I'm going to continue with it. I do this after my toner and serum, before my moisturizer.
• Nature Gate's Shine Enhancing Henna Shampoo and Conditioner: I started trying out hair care products from iHerb. Am currently using Avalon Organics, which isn't too bad but I wanted to try other popular brands.
• E.L.F. Cosmetics' Eyeshadow Palettes: Dude, US$15 each.

FRAGRANCE: BOSS MA VIE Pour Femme

BOSS MA VIE Pour Femme is the latest fragrance to join the BOSS Parfums family. It completes the trio, which includes BOSS NUIT Pour Femme and BOSS JOUR Pour Femme, and reveals a new dimension to the BOSS woman. The fragrance draws inspiration from the serenity that the BOSS woman feels when she steps out of her daily routine, stop and smell the flowers. It's the moment when she loosens up, enjoy some quiet me-time and savour life - her life.

Top Notes: Modernity - Cactus Blossom
Light scents that are detected immediately upon application. Forms your first impression.
Top notes of cactus blossom accord capture the invigorating green freshness of the uncompromising desert plant, providing a unique and modern element to the fragrance. Known to demonstrate unconditional love of life in any condition, the essence evokes a lively and uplifting brightness, igniting the BOSS woman to fully live her life and take pleasure in the moment.

Middle Notes: Femininity - Pink Floral Bouquet with Rose Bud
Scents that emerge just before the top notes departs. Masks initial unpleasant impression of base notes, which improves with time.
A blooming bouquet at the heart of BOSS MA VIE Pour Femme unifies the key florals of BOSS NUIT Pour Femme and BOSS JOUR Pour Femme, with a tender and soft pink feminine twist. Suave pink freesia and jasmine petals were blended with delicate rose bud, creating a natural floralcy. Often perceived as tender and delicate, rose buds carry the concentrated strengths of the densely layered, pure core of an immaculate rose, providing an elegant sensation of softness with strong femininity.

Base Notes: Confidence - Cedarwood
Rich and deep scents that emerge before the middle notes departs. Brings depth and solidity to the fragrance.
The intense warmth of sheer woods and cedarwood forms the base of the fragrance. Known to encourage an attitude of confidence and ease, it inspires the BOSS woman to take a moment to herself, grounding her with a heightened awareness of her feelings and surroundings.

-

BOSS MA VIE Pour Femme is a scent that I have been reaching out for every day. It's light and feminine, but not overwhelmingly floral... Perfect for the girl who's in-between (You know, neither too girly nor too boyish.) and as a daily scent. The bottle's simple and minimalistic. Wrapped in a classic ballet pink, it will adorn any vanity table elegantly.

BOSS MA VIE Pour Femme Eau de Parfum is available in 30ml, 50ml and 75ml. The shower gel and body lotion will be at $50 (200ml) each.

WWW: Christmas loving for Every Friend

And we are just 3 weeks away from my favourite holiday of the year. It isn't just 25th that I'm looking forward to; I also enjoy the entire build-up to this holiday. The intricate Christmas decorations that adorn the malls, the fairy lights that dress the trees, the joyful songs that fill the air… And not forgetting, the thought and care that go into preparing gifts for our loved ones.

But the weather has been erratic, there are crowds to beat, there's year-end closing to deal with and some of us just really don't want to leave the comfort of our homes. Thankfully we have the internet and hence, online shopping (#bestthingtobeinventedever).

Here are some Christmas gift ideas for 5 friends which you probably have:

1. For the beauty guru:

   Smashbox Click You're It Holiday Eye Palette, $26.00

   Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System, $35.90

   There's no such thing as 'too much makeup'. For the friend who loves dolling up, a new eyeshadow palette is always welcomed, especially one from Smashbox. The Smashbox Click You're It Holiday Eye Palette, $26.00 includes 15 buttery soft and fine-textured eyeshadows and 5 creamy eyeliners. Novice makeup artists will definitely appreciate the accompanying 3 tutorial cards that teach you how to create 6 different and easy looks.

   With all the coming late-night partying and alcohol, it will be wise to start caring for the skin a little more now. The Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System, $35.90 combines exfoliating crystals and microvibrations to give you firmer, younger-looking and more refined skin, just like a newborn baby's!

2. For the book lover:

   Moby Dick (5x7") Journal, $35.90

   OOP Library Card Denim Tote, $39.90

   For the friend who loves books more than anything else, it will be perfect to get her a journal for her to pen down all her favourite phrases and sentences. The Moby Dick (5x7") Journal, $35.90 is book-cloth wrapped and has 300 'micro-text' lined pages for all her scribbling and doodlings. Pair it with the fitting OOP Library Card Denim Tote, $39.90 so that she can easily carry her books wherever she goes.

3. For the Instagrammer:

   Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Black, $79.80

   Gold Instax Mini Album for Instax Mini Films, $7.50

   You can always find a friend who Instagram-s everything. She takes several shots to get the perfect one and then, spends the next couple of minutes finding the perfect filter. But some memories are meant to be tangible and to come with all their beautiful flaws. The Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Black, $79.80 allows you to capture memories in pocket-sized cards which you can scribble on, create a photo collage on your bedroom wall or house in the pretty Gold Instax Mini Album for Instax Mini Films, $7.50. Flip through it when you're 60 and have a good laugh at all the silly but memorable moments.

4. For the fashionista:

   Double Straps Plain Playsuit in Black, $31.90

   YSL Wristlet – Pink, $12.90

   Then there's the friend who is always well-dressed for every event and ahead of fashion trends. Well, this Christmas, get her the Double Straps Plain Playsuit in Black, $31.90 to replace her favourite LBD. It’s a little playful, very classy and affirms her fashionista status. The YSL Wristlet – Pink, $12.90 will make sure that she further stands out from the crowd.

5. For the Gordon Ramsey wannabe:

   Morries 3-in-1 Breakfast Maker MS-301SBM, $49.90

   Stylux Salad Maker, Food Processor LH-FP157, $47.90

   Finally, we have the friend who watches Masterchef 24/7 and wants to marry Gordon Ramsey. The Morries 3-in-1 Breakfast Maker MS-301SBM, $49.90 allows her to start the day with a hearty, Ramsey-approved breakfast. It comes with a 5L electronic over toaster (For crisp slices of bread.), a coffee maker (Arabica beans only please.) and a Teflon coated frying plate (Bacon is compulsory.).

   For lunch and dinner, she will find the Stylux Salad Maker, Food Processor LH-FP157, $47.90 very handy. It's a multi-purpose chopper with 5 stainless steel blades that can easily grates, shreds and slices just about anything; fruits, vegetables, cheeses, chocolates, nuts etc. Most importantly, it is easy to clean.

-
Now, for the fun part (After all, giving is better than receiving! :D)! Online shopping websites are a dime a dozen. What makes one stand out is the variety of items and the customer service. So here's introducing Lazada. Lazada is Southeast Asia's biggest online shopping mall, with operations in Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam and very recently, our sunny little Singapore!

Purchasing from Lazada is as easy as ABC! Let me take you through the process as I order a watch for the brother:

• Step 1: After registering an account, browse through Lazada for the perfect gifts. Lazada is stocked with an unimaginable variety of items; from beauty to gadgets to home décor, you name it, they have it!

  

• Step 2: Once you have decided on your item, click on 'Buy Now'. This puts your item in your shopping cart!

  

• Step 3: When you are done shopping (Probably took a while, didn't it? Heh.), click on 'Proceed to Checkout' and start filling in your details.

  

• Step 4: Select your payment method and click on 'Place Your Order'!

  

And you are done! :DDD The delivery can take between 2-4 business days for local sellers or 5-14 business days for overseas sellers. While waiting, you can check the status of your order here!

Alrighty, I hope this post has been helpful for you. Before I end, here's a little Christmas something from me to you! Happy shopping! :D

LOOKBOOK: Blushing Florals

Everlane tee, Missypixie Betina Floral Trumpet Skirt
-

This week was mostly spent recovering from Bangkok. Too much excitement left both my nose and throat a little sore. Still, I can't wait to go back there. Just last night, I was seated beside 2 strangers who were talking about my favourite country in the world (Besides Singapore, of course.) and it was really tempting to just join in the conversation. But I managed to maintain, thankfully (There are only so many embarrassing episodes that one can have at 25.).

The above photos were taken a while back, when my hair was still straight and pretty (It's back to being grass-like now. I'm really reluctant to straighten it again, so I got it thinned and layered. And now, I have no idea how to style it.). I decided to go both casual and dressy, just because the skirt was a pretty number and I was too lazy to go full-on dressy. Does the outfit look a little mismatched to you? :\

Anyway, the sister discovered Everlane tees a while back. They are 100% cotton, lightweight and slouchy, which makes them perfect companions for lounging around. Except that they are rather expensive. Definitely a want, and not a need.

FRAGRANCE: This Christmas with P&G Prestige Fragrances‏

I love fragrances. I have been wearing them since I was 14, stealing a couple of spritz every morning from Dad's little shelf (Yes, I prefer the musky ones.). They provide little outlets of expression; whether it's the sassiness you're feeling in the morning, or the seriousness of the day's events... I really think that everyone should own one. Or two. Or a whole (small) chest of them, like me. Heh.

Anyway, Christmas is fast approaching and if you're scratching your head over the perfect gift for the fair maidens in your life, why not get them fragrances? Perhaps, ones that smell like their personalities? :D

Here are 3 P&G Prestige Fragrances‏ you might want to check out:

• ESCADA Joyful for the positive ones
  Joy is a state of mind, where everything seems possible and nothing is too daunting. This feeling is perfectly captured in the new fragrance from ESCADA - ESCADA Joyful. The luminous scent embodies happiness in a bottle, making it the perfect gift for the woman who approaches life with positivity, spontaneity and confidence. Captivated by the beauty around her, she sees the positive in all that she does, helping her to experience joyful moments and good fortune in return.
  ESCADA Joyful EDP comes in 30ml ($87), 50ml ($122) and 75ml ($158).

• GUCCI Premiere EDT for the bold ones
  For the woman who possesses limitless strength and is happy in her own skin, the latest fragrance from GUCCI - GUCCI Premiere EDT is the best way to celebrate her. Combining presence and sensual femininity, this scent rewards those champagne moments of everyday achievement and makes them resonate and last, making it the ideal gift for the woman who is the epitome of confidence and empowerment.
  GUCCI Premiere EDT comes in 30ml ($106), 50ml ($129) and 75ml ($181).

• GUCCI Guilty Studs Limited Edition for the glamourous ones
  The GUCCI Guilty sensual heroine is an audacious, rebellious thrill-seeker, a trailblazer who indulges in passion and dangerous seduction. This scent now further expresses their defiant attitude with a new and striking guise with the GUCCI Guilty Studs Limited Edition. Adorned with more than 400 studs per bottle, this limited edition fragrance is just right for the woman who is gutsy yet glamourous, with an attitude that both provokes and seduces.
  GUCCI Guilty Studs Limited Edition comes in 50ml ($122).

RAMBLINGS: Hello world-after-the-Land-of-Smiles.

Last week, I made my very first trip to Bangkok with Yinghua and ohmigosh, I friggin' love that city. Even more than Taipei. I can understand how Chua can go there every year and why, for Yinghua, this was her 4th trip to Bangkok. This year. Lol, it's a tad extreme but I may be guilty of it soon. Hehhh.

Most of the people whom we met were very friendly, things were incredibly cheap (Even restaurant food. Divide everything by 25!), the KFC Popcorn Chicken actually had meat and was doused in some kind of spice powder (SO YUMMY PLEASE.), Thai milk tea was like 20 baht, body massages were sooo good and very much needed by my perpetually tensed body (Zen Tara Massage & Spa, guys!), I basically bought clothes for the next 3 months, Tuk Tuk ride was so fun, I found my Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Bourbon (They stop restocking it in SG. I don't know why, it's the perfect brown.), FOOD WAS SO GOOD, TOO GOOD... I really can go on forever. To think that I actually asked Benji if Bangkok had anything for me and had initially prepared a tiny cabin luggage (B told me to go Sentosa with it instead.).

Anyway, I just wanted to drop a note to say that I haven't abandoned this little virtual hideout of mine, as well as Instagram and Twitter. Mmhmm, somehow I'm not THAT into the whole social media business anymore but they are really great places to store memories. So keep a lookout as I recollect my Bangkok food adventure starting tomorrow on Instagram (@charlenejudith.)! :D

Last but not least, much love to Yinghua for bringing me around and tolerating my nonsense, whining (Ahem. I'm over it now. Maybe. I'll let you know tomorrow. HAHA.), OCD-ness, meekness, bluntness... Haiyah, all my flaws! MUACKZ. #favteacherforever (Woman, do you even read my blog?!?)

LOOKBOOK: LOWRYS FARM x ZARA

Lowrys Farm striped top, Zara jeans
-

So many thoughts running through my head now that I can't decide what I want to talk about. The irrational bliss that I'm feeling from watching Korean dramas, my confusion over something rather minor and how I have been thinking about it so much lately (Yes, a sign that the hols are almost here. SO CLOSE. TOO CLOSE.), the fact that I'm always in-between things and am now trying to find permanence in my temporariness, the decision to embrace my very Chinese face and to make it even more Chinese with makeup, the eagerness to welcome the hols but also, the fearfulness of having absolutely nothing to do and wasting my time on earth away...

SO. I'm going to leave you with a song that I have been listening to. It doesn't exactly convey my mood right now but it lifts me up a little each time I listen to it. No matter how low I'm feeling.

-

Oceans apart and it's heavy on my heart
Roll and row but my rolling game too slow
I'm happy you know

I'm spending my time watching the ship and the globe
Why beauty's in the simple things
Your sweetness and your elegance
I'm happy you know

Paa pa pa paa pa pa paa papa pa paa paa

Oceans apart and I'm sailing on my dreams
Roll and row but my rolling game too wild
I'm lost in your smile

I'm spending my time watching the ship and the globe
Why beauty's in the simple things
Your sweetness and your elegance
I'm happy you know

Paa pa pa paa pa pa paa papa pa paa paa

Paa papa paa pa pa paap paa paaa

SPOTTED: This Christmas, I wish upon a star.

And... We are just 13 days away from one of my 2 favourite months of the year (The other being August, bien sûr!). I don't know about you, but I feel like time slips past us faster as we grow older. I distinctly remember sitting on the classroom floor in primary school, looking at the date on the chalkboard and slowly counting down to the year end. It took for-ever and it felt so painful. But now, it's like I'm trying to hold on to every single minute that I have. I want to fill my time with things that I have always wanted to do but didn't, because, well, life and procrastination. Heh. Oh yeah. And money too. It's sooooo good to have an income!

Next year, I really want to take up makeup courses and one school that I have been looking at is Make Up For Ever Academy. I very nearly joined one last year, but the schedule wasn't too good for me. Also, it's really expensive. So while I save up for the course(s), let me take a look at things that are cheaper, i.e. Make Up For Ever products. HAHA. What? I need to get acquainted with my future school!

One product that I really want to own is the Rouge Artist Lip Palette. I know palettes can get really messy, especially in Singapore's infamously hot and humid weather (It has been raining a lot though. I hate being wet but the cool air... AHHH!), but they just make so much sense. It's so difficult to just buy ONE lipstick at like, $30?!? And I can't just use one shade until the entire lipstick is gone (Who finishes a lipstick?!?). Okay, I can but I don't want to because lip colours are a form of self-expression, ha (The justifications that a beauty junkie can come up with...). Palettes are compact, they are convenient and they give you choices... At like what, half the price? *beams*

Anyway, here are my top 4 picks from Make Up For Ever that I would like to try this year:

ATM: Dealing with rash

I spent the most of last week holed up in my home because rash decided to visit me where it was most visible. While anti-histamine and oral steroids are the way to go (Also, not scratching lest you get scars.), there are some products out there that can help make our lives less itchy and miserable. Most of us have our go-to products but for those who don't or are looking for alternatives, here's mine: DermaVeen (Sounding so much like a commercial. Heh.).

DermaVeen contains colloidal oatmeal, which is basically oat that has been ground into extremely fine powder. I came to know about this brand from one of the comments on Instagram a couple of years back. Since then, I always have a bottle with me. But I didn't actually realize just how potent it was against itch until last week. I practically drowned my entire face and neck in a thick layer of this pure (pause) white (pause) goodness. It doesn't absorb instantly so it leaves white streaks, especially when you apply too much. But eventually, it sinks in and gives a matte finish. Which is perfect for the face! *victory sign*

My rash is no longer angry and red, and even the usual redness in my face has vanished. Magic? I think so. Haha. Nah, it's just the awesomeness of DermaVeen *nods seriously*. I will definitely be stocking this now and forever, until the day my body turns to dust.

Before I end this post, here are some of my tips when you're dealing with a pesky rash:

1. For a fast relief, visit a doctor to get anti-histamine.
   Rash usually goes away by itself, but the situation exacerbates when we scratch it. For those of us who are dead to the world when our heads hit the pillow and lose control of all limbs... Well, it's better to get anti-histamine to stop the itch pronto.

2. Be a human water barrel.
   If you look closely at your rash, the skin is usually dry and rough. So hydrate yourself as much as possible. Water also helps to flush out whatever toxins you have lurking in your body. Actually, you should already be drinking 8 glasses of water everyday (Mothers are always right.).

3. Spam the godsend-super-lotion DermaVeen.
   As explained above. *curtsies*

4. Fill your head and hands with things.
   While you slowly wait out the rash, do things to occupy your head so that you will stop thinking about/staring at your rash. While there are cases where mental powers made miracles, most of us are, unfortunately, not supernatural beings so... Busying yourself is a way to kill time very quickly.

5. When the rash leaves do-not-forget-me brown patches, spam Sweet Almond Oil.
   I have been experimenting with oils for a long time now, and my absolute favourite is Sweet Almond Oil. It got rid of my eczema marks faster than any other clinically proven creams ever have. I. Swear. By. It.

REVIEW: Ettusias' BB Mineral Cream and BB Mineral Powder

One blog that I have been following since my university days is Sophia's. She gives incredibly detailed and honest reviews. Ettusais is a brand that she has consistently raved about and after reading every single entry twice, I decided to jump on the bandwagon. I got myself the BB Mineral Cream and the BB Mineral Powder from the Bugis outlet (Splendid service, btw!).

BB Mineral Cream | 40g for $38.00
Made of 79% skincare ingredients, Ettusais's first lightweight BB cream spreads easily to hide pores, even out skin tone and control oil. Ingredients include Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin and AC-Control Oil, which helps to prevent acne. It also contains SPF 30 PA ++.

BB Mineral Powder | 10g for $38.00
Made of 100% ultra-fine mineral powder, it provides coverage without thick application. It absorbs and removes excess sebum and creates a soft focus effect for baby-like skin. Ingredients include the award-winning Skin Roughness Preventing Powder, that, well, prevents skin roughness from occurring.

I have been using this duo for more than 2 months, and I love it so much that I have been dragging friends to Ettusais counters and getting them to do some serious swatching. Heh. Just like what Ettusais says, this duo is so lightweight that it feels like I have got nothing on, yet my redness, uneven skin tone, yucky pores and even yuckier small blemishes are all cancelled out. Unfortunately, the large ones need a wee bit more help from the concealer (As seen above!), but I don't usually bother (Also seen above. Haha.). I have this on from 6am till about 6pm and of course, some of it is has worn off, especially the T-zone area. But overall, my complexion still looks pretty flawless!

I don't think I'll be straying from this duo anytime soon and definitely will be repurchasing. Thank you Ettusais for the wonderful inventions and of course, Sophia for bringing them to my attention! :D I really recommend them to everyone. And if you find the BB Mineral Cream too heavy for your oily skin or if you want something that can help lighten your skin tone, fret not because they have other variations as well. There's a little chart by the counter to help you make your decisions and I believe the Ettusais girls will be more than happy to answer your queries. :D

LOOKBOOK: All wrapped up in a garden of fields.

Topshop tank top, Love, Bonito midi skirt
-

I have been literally wearing this Topshop tank top to death on the weekends. The cotton isn't paper thin and it goes well with just about everything, like this very pretty and cheery skirt by everyone's favourite Love, Bonito. It was one of those 'OMG, I MUST HAVE IT NOW.' item, and I would have got the shorter version, in green, if it weren't so short. Anyway, when I wear this, I feel like I'm in a cocoon of fresh grass, pretty blooms and sunshine. *blissful face*

I have been looking at a bunch of clothes lately, as I play 'Friends' in the background. Heh. Too many pretties, too many sales. And things get even sweeter when there are sales, on top of sales. Like these awesome ASOS and Zalora coupons which you can find at CupoNation. 2014 is coming to an end after all. We have worked hard, Christmas is just 2-months round the corner (And we know how fast time flies.)... Isn't it time to give ourselves a treat?

Or treats? :D

FRAGRANCE: LACOSTE L!VE

In September, Lacoste launched LACOSTE L!VE for our leading men. Energy and creativity are bottled in this fragrance as notes of lime and green leaves. It attracts the creative spirits, inspiring them in every aspect of their lives.

The flacon also tells the Lacoste story, that is edgy, strong and playful.

• Edgy: This clean and minimalist cube offers a smart and edgy container for the dynamic fragrance within. Its contemporary primary colours provide a base for creative minds to build upon as they visualize all possibilities.
• Strong: The bold design, with a subtle play of materials, draws a unique and instantly recognizable envelope for this fragrance.
• Playful: The six sides of the cube give the opportunity to see things differently depending on the perspective. It pushes people to go and see beyond the obvious, to be surprised and energized. Just like the fragrance.

The dynamic of LACOSTE L!VE comes in 40ml ($70) and 100ml ($117). It also comes in deodorant stick ($37) and deodorant aero ($37).

P.S.: Leaving you with the very creative TVC for LACOSTE L!VE. :D

REVIEW: Aesop's Oil Free Facial Hydrating Serum and Fabulous Face Oil

Aesop has been in Singapore for the longest time... I think it first opened in Ngee Ann City? I remember looking at the apothecary-like store from the outside and wanting just about everything. Solely because of the packaging. But I never stepped into their store until last December (Too many brands to discover, and only one face. *exasperated look*). And after about an hour, came out all happy and poor with 2 pretty bottles. I got the Aesop Oil Free Facial Hydrating Serum and the Aesop Fabulous Face Oil. These 2 make up my morning routine for most part of this year.

Aesop Oil Free Hydrating Serum is a lightweight serum for combination, oily or troubled skin. It is a bottle of Vitamins B and C, botanical extracts and antioxidant-rich ingredients, steeped in an Aloe Vera base. An alternative to cream-based moisturizers, it helps to soften our skin, leaving it smooth with a matte finish.

Aesop Fabulous Face Oil contains 9 carefully selected botanical extracts that hydrates and balances our skin. It detoxifies patchy skin, imparting a smooth and matte finish.

Each morning, I mix 5 drops of the Oil Free Hydrating Serum with 1-3 drops of the Fabulous Face Oil. I apply it to my face in circular motions and wait for it to sink into my skin completely before applying my makeup (I take this time to blow dry my hair. :D). Upon application, it feels a little sticky because of the Aloe Vera base. But it sinks into the skin pretty quickly, leaving a smooth, comfortable and rather matte complexion. Foundation goes on seamlessly.

I have combination skin and I find that these 2 work great for my oily areas. My T-zone begins the day matte and at the end of the day, it's just a tad oily. However, my inner cheeks tend to dry out towards the day and there will be a little bit of flaking. :\ Where zits are concerned, I don't see any difference; I still break out (I'm treating this as a sign of youth. *two thumbs up*).

One thing that I really like is that the Oil Free Hydrating Serum has Aloe Vera as its base and yet it doesn't leave any sticky residue. Some nights, I like to slather Jorubi's Aloe Vera Gel all over my face but it gets incredibly sticky and uncomfortable, and it gets all over my pillow. So this makes a great substitute, albeit an expensive one. :\

I have been playing around with other oils, so it's very unlikely that I'll repurchase these 2. Maybe the serum, but definitely not the oil because it was pretty normal for me. :\ I think they will be more beneficial for those with oily and troubled skin. But that's not to say that I'll stop exploring Aesop. I really want to try the Purifying Facial Exfoliant Paste because apparently, it leaves your skin soft as a baby's bottom. Mmhmm.

LOOKBOOK: Checkered Casual

Topshop checkered shirt and tank top, Espirit shorts
-

Since transiting into work full-time, weekends have become my lazy days. Well, not previously because I was trying to squeeze in so many activities like more work, ballet (which I quit and I really miss. ): ) and piano. I felt like I needed to grab every free time that I had to do something that I always wanted to do. Otherwise, I would just degenerate. But then, I realized that that left me with no rest. And weekends, which are meant for recharging oneself, became more draining than the weekdays because I was running all over the East and Central. Everything carried forward and I felt more haggard than someone who just started work should. Also, I had no time for friends (I'm SO SORRY.).

Now that I have freed up some commitments and I'm just left with one more big assignment, I think I have become a complete sloth (It has only been 3 days, really. But it feels like forever.); watching 'Friends' all day, flopping about like a dead fish on the brother's bed, drinking tons of water to offset the guilt from not exercising (Even though, I finished a bag and a half of chips while drinking water. But I did hit the gym last Thursday though!), surfing aimlessly and buying the most unnecessary things ever (like Rodin Oil. Gawd. It'd better be gold. *cries*)... It's like I can only swing between the extremes. I never rest in-between. Help. Moderation is the key to all things.

Anyway, I apologize. I digressed. So much. As I was saying, weekends have become the days when I dress seriously down. I'm usually in shorts and my swallows tee. But I've some dates to come and I thought I pull out some casual dressy wear. Whatever that means. Haha. (You can totally tell that my brain has shut down. At 12.43 pm. It has only been half a day. *buries head*) This checkered Topshop top was bought when my age still had a '1' in front of it (Sure miss those days when responsibilities were bite-sized.). I really love checkered tops but it's pretty difficult to find one that has the right colours. Some are too red, some are too blue... But this! Even though it isn't cheery, it has the 'farm' feel to it. Haha. I haven't found a nicer looking checkered top so I'm never throwing this out.

I think I just wasted 2 minutes of your life with this? Haha. But thank you, if you are reading this. (: Have a Magnificent Monday (while I go pull myself out of this rut.)!

REVIEW: SK-II's Stempower Eye Cream

Ageing is becoming very real to me as I passed the 25-year old mark. My once-greasy cheeks are now drying up faster than you can say 'desert'. When I smile, my skin literally crinkles. Needless to say, deeper lines are forming around my eyes because here, the skin is at its thinnest. Also, with all the work and daily happenings, I average about 5 hours of sleep everyday. Eeps! :\ And that is why I was so thankful when Rachel from Devries sent over SK-II's Stempower Eye Cream.

The 3 critical points around the eye where ageing rears its wrinkly head are the eyelid, the under-eye area and the outer eye corner. SK-II's Stempower Eye Cream contains the following ingredients to reveal eyes that look more youthful:

• Stempower Trio Active: A coocktail of concentrated Pitera, Stem Acanax and Artichoke Extract to improve skin's plumpness and boost radical firmness and inner resilience.
• PAL-VB Complex: Specially formulated ingredient promotes production of skin's structural protein that is important for its elasticity and wrinkle resilience.
• Lupine-Alfalfa Extract: Aids in preventing the sagging of eye bags.

To apply, I dip my ring finger lightly into the jar and pat the cream under and above my eyes. Since it is a cream, its consistency is pretty thick. But with the appropriate amount (You really just need a teeny weeny bit!), it sinks into the skin quite quickly. For the past 2 months, I have been waking up to well-hydrated skin around my eyes and my triple eyelids appear all the time (Usually, the ones on my right disappear when I'm tired and the skin around my eyes get dry.). I haven't experienced any irritations or new milia seeds. (:

SK-II's Stempower Eye Cream (15g) is available at all SK-II counters at $144.

P.S.: Psst! Now that you know a little more about how ageing affects our eye areas, SK-II invites you to participate in a short interactive online poll here! This poll will bust some myths on ageing and unveil the exciting discovery behind SK-II's journey in fixing the signs of ageing. :D

REVIEW: Olay's Total Effects 7-in-one Pore Minimizing CC Cream

This July, Olay launched its first C.C. cream in Singapore. Combining 7 benefits in one, the Total Effects Pore Minimizing CC Cream is a multi-tasker that gives us a seemingly airbrushed complexion. Our skin becomes smoother, tone made even and pores appear smaller... All in one simple step!

Here are 4 facts that you should know about Olay's Total Effects Pore Minimizing CC Cream:

1. The Science - Instant results with the Smart Color + 3D Pore Coverage technology: Reduces glare and diffuses light, reflecting off the skin to immediately minimize the appearance of pores and reveal skin's natural luminosity and radiance. Niacinamide firms and exfoliate the skin around pores, reducing their appearance and smoothing skin's texture at the same time.
2. The Formula: Lightweight and oil-free, it won't clog pores or magnify the appearance of pores and uneven texture, giving an airbrushed finish.
3. Usage Direction: Used alone or as a primer, apply liberally and blend evenly across skin for natural and even coverage.
4. Results: Proven to instantly reduce the look of pores and uneven pigmentation, and improve skin radiance.

Though the drop of Olay's Total Effects Pore Minimizing CC Cream looks quite thick in the earlier photo, it actually spreads out into a thin and watery layer. Thus, coverage is pretty light but it does a great job in concealing redness and uneven skin tone. However, blemishes and dark circles will need some help from the concealer (In the above photos, I used Estée Lauder's Brush-On Glow B.B Highlighter.). I won't say that the finish is airbrushed, but my complexion looks clear, radiant and smooth.

As the C.C. cream is lightweight and oil-free, it sits very comfortably on the skin. It starts wearing out mid-day and my T-zone gets oily, BUT the formula is quite hydrating; my usually parched cheeks feel less thirsty. :D This would be ideal for ladies who are looking for something simple and hydrating that they can use everyday.

The Olay Total Effects Pore Minimizing CC Cream (50g) is available in 2 shades, (1) Light and (2) Medium, and can be found in most leading department stores and pharmacies where Olay products are sold at $32.50.

REVIEW: Bioré's Micellar Cleansing Water

This June, Bioré introduced the Micellar Cleansing Water. It is a lightweight makeup remover that cleans off more makeup in one gentle swipe. With fewer wipes and less tugging, we exert less stress and damage on our skin. And so, reduce the chances of developing premature fine lines and wrinkles.

This makeup remover is formulated with the Watery Micellar Technology. Micellar Water consists of tiny micellar particles that are able to draw out all makeup, sebum and impurities from our skin. It deep cleanses, removes all makeup and no double cleansing is needed. Our skin is left feeling comfortably clean and refreshingly cool, without any of the sticky, oily after-feeling.

Other key ingredients include:

• Natural Mineral Water from the Northern Japanese Alps: This provides a non-comedogenic and alcohol-free base for a gentle and soothing formula that's suitable for sensitive skin.
• Anti-bacterial Formula: This helps prevent breakouts, while minimizing pores for a clearer and more refined complexion.
• Enriched with skin-loving ingredients: Enriched Collagen and White Tea Extract are also included for a brighter, softer and more supple skin.

featuring Olay's Total Effects 7-in-one CC Cream and Maybelline New York's Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner.

My daily makeup comprises of a B.B. cream, loose powder and blusher, and this remover cleans off everything. All I do is wet 3 pieces of cotton pads and just swipe them across my face. On days when I have mascara on, it takes a little while longer but it still gets the job done (Just rest the damp cotton pad on your eyelids for a while and then, swipe downwards gently!).

The effects of the anti-bacterial formula, enriched collagen and White Tea extract are a little difficult to spot because I mean, your other skin care products play a part too. But after cleansing, my skin feels soft, refreshed and isn't the least bit dry. (: Also, there wasn't any stinging experienced at my eye areas. (:

I have used several Bioré products and really, there wasn't any that I didn't like. And this is no exception. (: It is efficient and ideal for those who wear light makeup and are looking for makeup removers that are simple and fuss-free.

The Bioré Micellar Cleansing Water retails at $18.90 and can be found at all pharmacies, hypermarkets and supermarkets.