Checking out Emma Watson's Favourite Lip Stain from The Body Shop

The day after Into The Gloss published Emma Watson's Beauty Routine, I found myself at The Body Shop purchasing all the colours that the Lip & Cheek Stain is available in on our shores. Thankfully there are only 2; Pink Hibiscus 001 and Dark Cherry 018. Neither of which is the one that Emma uses (Red Pomegranate!). But that's okay because it turns out that I didn't like it when I was a teen and I still don't like it as an adult. 😕 Real bummer but I will still continue my googling of celebrities' beauty routines and checking out whatever products that are affordable. Heh. (ؑ‷ᵕؑ̇‷)◞✧

The stains come in 7.2ml tiny bottles that will fit in any makeup pouch or back pockets. They have sponge applicators that are soft yet firm. I dab a little of the stain on the inner corners of my lips and then, use my finger to spread it out for a 'just bitten' look.

And as you can see from the above photo, Pink Hibiscus (Bottom one.) is very watery whereas Dark Cherry (Top one.) is a little gel-like. The former smells flowery and gives a brighter and more youthful look, while the latter has a more chemical smell to it and gives off a pure and innocent vibe. I love both colours but unfortunately, despite the difference in viscosity, both are equally drying and unforgiving on my already-parched lips.

My lips feel drier and tight almost immediately upon application. I have tried applying a lip balm on top of it but then, the colour comes off. And if I applied a lip balm underneath it, then I find that it's difficult to get the colour to stick.

I really wanted to own a little something from Emma's beauty routine (Just because.) but I'm not going to find it in these two. 😕 I'm actually going to bin these two after I publish this entry but anyway, right not, I'm using DHC Pure Colour Lip Creams and we are getting along very fine. :D

Catrice's Victorian Poetry Eyeshadow Palette in C01 NostalCHIC

Early in June, I was just chilling at a mall when I came across Catrice's Victorian Poetry collection. I actually didn't think much of the brand before this because I cannot work with the formula of the brand's nail polishes. I know they are two completely different categories but you know, it was just a bad impression. But this collection was so pretty with its frosty-ice-queen theme that I decided to swatch and developed a crush. ꈍ .̮ ꈍ

The eyeshadows are not buttery smooth like Urban Decay's (Well, this is a hell lot more affordable and a whole lot less guilt-inducing. Heh.) but they are of decent pigmentation and actually blend very well. I don't wear my eyeshadows with a primer and my eyelids can get pretty oily but this lasted okay for a dinner and an ice-cream. Some fading away, but still looking pretty fresh. :D

I will definitely by swatching a lot more when I pop by Guardian! ♡

My First Japan Beauty Haul 最初の日本で買った化粧品

(In an attempt to practise my Japanese more, I'll be translating my blog titles in Japanese. They are probably wrong so please correct me if you happen to know the language. ありがとう！＾＾)

So... This year's theme is 'minimalism' for me and I'm supposed to be on a permanent no-buying-(only-replacing) ban but it was a little challenging to leave Japan's drugstores empty-handed. I mean, have you seen those magical places??? I want to spend hours there like how Belle spends hours in the library. Heh. (I really tried to contain the shopaholic/ hoarder in me and bought only things that I know I will use frequently.)

First up, I got the famous LuLuLun Face Masks in Hokkaido-exclusive flavours, Lavender and Corn. These masks come in a pack of 7 because you're supposed to use them daily. Unfortunately, these contain fragrances so I just got a pack each to try. Since, you know, exclusive. Lol. This special duo set was found in one of the departure area's shops at the New Chitose Airport.

Next, is another pack of daily masks from Loshi Horse Oil. Japan has horse oil products everywhere and it's so difficult to pick because everything is in Japanese (And my Japanese is terrible. :\). But this specific golden one was recommended by someone on Dayre so I got it. If I remembered correctly, she said she had poreless skin the next day. Looking forward to that. :D Beside it is a red packet of Lishan Horse Oil Mask. This was a free gift because Mum bought a box of Lishan Horse Oil. *points below*

As mentioned earlier, Japan has a ton of horse oil products but the Lishan Horse Oil has some kind of an award sticker on it (Not Cosme.) so I asked Mum to get that. I think the more well-known one is the Son Bahyu Horse Oil, which I'm currently using for my lips, but you don't see that everywhere. For those who are curious, you can get the latter from Singapore's Tokyu Hands, at an inflated price. :\

The Flowfushi Mote Liner is another Dayre recommendation (The beauty community there is great!). It comes in black, black brown, brown and navy, the last of which I was really tempted but maintain, inner shopaholic monster. Maintain. I tried the liners in stores and once they dry, they really don't budge. Also, the brushes are thin and firm, which make drawing easy, especially for beginners.

Then, it's another box of masks (Haha.) but this one has a Cosme sticker on it and it took first place in 2016. I came across the Minon Amino Moist Mask on Reddit (Another super great community! In fact, the greatest on the Internet.) and it was in every single drugstore, so yep. Also, apparently, this is meant for dry and sensitive skin a.k.a me. :D

Here, I have 3 acne creams which Candice from The Makeup Box blogged about. Ever since Erycane was discontinued, I have been on the hunt for my Holy Grail zit zapper and hopefully, I find it in one of these. *fingers crossed*

The Shiseido Moilip is yet another recommendation on Dayre. Haha. And it's really, really good for dry weather. My lips were flaking pretty bad in Hokkaido and my favourite DHC lip balm wasn't working (Btw, this is dirt cheap in Japan. Like SGD5 dirt cheap. Wth, Watsons!). But just one night of this potent balm and tadahhh, relief and smoothness. ◡̈ It's a bit much for Singapore though. Not that it's uncomfortable or anything like that, but price-wise, it's a lot more than the DHC one.

Finally, it's a small kawaii bottle of Hyaluronic Acid which I got because there was the Cosme sticker (No. 1 in 2007, which is actually a very long time ago...). You can drop a little of this in shampoos, face lotions, lip balms (?) etc. to boost hydration.

And yep, that's my first Japan beauty haul! Unfortunately, I can't remember the prices but they are mostly below SGD20. I will be using them in the coming weeks so let me know if you have any questions! ◡̈

REVIEW: SK-II's Auractivator CC Cream

The SK-II Auractivator CC Cream was launched early last year and is part of the brand's plan to bestow upon us a crystal clear and radiant complexion. *bliss* This C.C. cream contains the Day Soft Aura White, which is a concoction of UME extract, Niacinamide and of course, concentrated Pitera. Together with Cellumination Aura Essence and other moisturising ingredients, this CC cream promises to moisturise, brighten, protect and conceal. Over time, it is also supposed to activate our bare skin's inner luminosity.

I have been using this on and off since the beginning of the year. The CC cream comes with a really huge pump dispenser, which makes it not very handy. But it is sturdy and I like that it's hygienic because I don't have to dip my fingers in the product. Scent-wise, it's light, floral and very soothing.

I take about 3/4 of a pump, dot my face with the cream and pat it in. It goes on really comfortable, like a second skin. Coverage is light - it conceals redness and small spots, but huge zits and dark circles will need additional help from a concealer. I really like it as an everyday tinted moisturiser, except that it really doesn't last especially in our insane weather. I don't really mind this but then, this makes it pale in comparison with other (less expensive) B.B. and C.C. creams. As a treatment, I haven't noticed anything visible yet.

I suppose this will work great as a makeup base too. People with normal skin types and who only need coverage for a short duration will enjoy this little treat.

REVIEW: Benefit's Lollibalm

I love lip and cheek stains. They are simple to use, completely natural looking and make it seem like you're flushing with radiance from within. Unfortunately, I can only use them on my cheeks because my lips are rather dry. And we all know that stains and dry lips do not make a pretty sight. So anyway, when Benefit came up with lip balm versions of their famous Cheek & Lip Stains, I just HAD to buy them. All 4 (This is said with pride and no shame at all. Haha. Heh. I don't spend as much as I used to now. So it's all good. Heh. #tryingreallyhardtobeanadult) and Lollibalm *points above* is my favourite out of the lot.

Described as a candy-orchid tinted kiss of sheer, buildable colour, this comes with mango butter and sodium hyaluronate to give you the softest and most luscious lips. Truthfully, this is a really expensive lip balm that doesn't even come with SPF. But I love the colour so much that I would buy it over and over again. *starts singing Nelly's 'Over and Over'* It brightens up my complexion even when I haven't got much makeup on, isn't the least bit sticky and just looks so, so pretty. Permanent resident in my makeup bag!

REVIEW: Clinique's Pop Lip Colour + Primer

Clinique's Pop Lip Colour + Primer is, just as its name suggests, a lipstick and primer combined into one. It is formulated with Shea and Murumuru butters to smooth and provide maximum hydration to your lips. Flexible polymers are also added to help keep the wearable colours vivid and vibrant throughout the day. There are 13 shades available in Singapore and they are neatly categorized into Nudes, Tawnies, Pinks and Violets.

Made in Belgium, the lipsticks come in simple yet classy-looking rectangular tubes. The caps are reflective so you can check on your lips any time you want discreetly. A tad heavy, but really useful and handy!

12 Fab Pop

04 Beige Pop

12 Fab Pop is a lavender pink with a demi-matte finish. When layered on, it's really pale which will look good with heavy eye makeup. But if I am just wearing very light foundation *points above*, then I prefer dabbing this on so that the natural redness of my lips peeks through, and I don't look so washed out.

04 Beige Pop is a pinkish beige and can be a good MLBB lipstick. For me, again, I think that this would look better with heavier makeup. Maybe because I'm so used to darker lip colours. Really should have gone all out with my eye shadows and liners here. Mmhmm.

But shades aside, these lipsticks are really moisturizing and they apply smoothly even when I don't have any lip balm on. They sit comfortably and the colours last for quite a while. (: Do check out the other colours like 01 Nude Pop, 06 Poppy Pop and 13 Love Pop!

Clinique's Pop Lip Colour + Primer retails for $33 and is available at all Clinique counters and on Luxola.

日本ラブ: Japanese Beauty Products

If I get obsessed with something and there's a beauty part to it, you can bet that the massive beauty junkie in me will spend hours googling it. Hence, it's completely natural that I started hauling Japanese beauty products again. Am so glad that the Great Singapore Sale is here now and has even been made available online. Away from the heat, away from the crowds... That's what I like. And also, GSS means that in the virtual world, there are these awesome coupons and deals for almost everything under the sun. Cannot. Wait. For. Pay. To. Come. In.

And... I digressed. Heh. Anyway, Japanese beauty products always pride themselves on using the very best of everything - quality, technology, knowledge etc. So I feel very safe using them. (: But of course, I still monitor my skin when I try a new product.

Here are 3 brands which I really love:

• Cezanne
  I really wish that I had discovered this brand so much earlier, when it was still available in Singapore. I have tried 2 of their powder foundations and I love them so much. They are light, sit comfortably on the skin and give you almost-flawless skin (Prominent blemishes will need some assistance from the concealer.) throughout the day. I now get my 'supply' whenever I go to Bangkok. (:

• HABA
  I tried the 3-Step Skincare System and the White Lady last year, and I really enjoyed the regimen. It was simple, fuss-free and most importantly, free from parabens, fragrances, mineral oils, artificial colourants and petrochemical surfactants. If I ever retire from being a beauty junkie, this is the regimen that's going to follow me for the rest of my life.

• Hada Labo
  This has been a great friend since 2011 and I like the Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Lotion best. It keeps my skin so well-hydrated and clear that I always keep a bottle in my bathroom. Whenever my face feels oily in the day, I splash some water, dry it and pat some of this in.

And 3 brands which I can't wait to explore:

• Albion
  This brand was raved quite a bit previously in the local beauty blogosphere, so I started googling for reviews and if you check the brand's hashtag on Instagram (HAHA. I really love my beauty products.), there are many Japanese ladies who love this as well. Especially the Skin Conditioner. I got a trial set at the Takashimaya counter last December and when there was a sale online, I ordered 3 big bottles of the Skin Conditioner. HAHA. Do I like it that much? Hmmm... It's difficult to say. It's lightweight, makes my skin soft and hydrated, but I'm still not really sure if it's worth the price. Will definitely only buy it when there's a sale.

• Shiseido
  This brand is everywhere. I love their Tsubaki hair care products (Loyal fan since JC days.) and those tiny lip balms, which I got from Taiwan, are the most adorable things ever. I don't know why I haven't tried their skin care products (Actually, I do. I have a whole drawer of untouched products! Heh.). But, soon! Haha.

• Son Bahyu
  I always see Horse Oil when there's the Japanese fair at Isetan Scotts, and I decided to pick a little tub when I saw it at Tokyu Hands. I was hoping that it would help with my eczema, but umm... It works better just as a moisturizer. Heh. Maybe this will work better in the long run? It's supposed to reduce the risk of scarring.

I really shouldn't be asking this, but are there other Japanese beauty brands that you're really into currently? :D

REVIEW: The BlackBox Exclusive Pack - Apex Beauté

This June, BlackBox teamed up with Korean brand, Apex Beauté, to bring you an exclusive pack that will take you a step closer to being K-ready. For the uninitiated, Apex Beauté is the latest K-brand to hit our shores. This beauty brand aims to bring out the elegance and beauty in every women with the best products at affordable prices.

This pack contains

• Apex Face Loose Powder (#01 Light Beige) $19.90
  This silky-smooth powder comes with a soft-focus and skin-perfecting formula that will give you clear, natural-looking skin. It has mica micro-particles that reflect light so that pores seem to disappear instantly.

• Apex Soft-Feel Eyeshadow (#02 Gold Pearl) $9.90
  This long-lasting colour eye shadow is enriched with Vitamin E and ultra-fine pearl to create a shimmery and vivid finish.

The Apex Face Loose Powder (#01 Light Beige) comes with a little puff, but I prefer using a brush. Just because it's more fun. Heh. After foundation, I sweep this all over my face and immediately, my complexion looks smoother and poreless... Almost airbrushed, but still very natural! (: I wore this out for about 5 hours or so, and came home with just a wee bit shine on my T-zone.

One tip which makeup artist Wayne Goss suggests is to apply the loose powder before your foundation. This fills in the pores and so, provides a smooth canvas for your foundation to go on. In this way, you need less foundation and it stays throughout the day!

The Apex Soft-Feel Eyeshadow (#02 Gold Pearl) is soft and pigmented. If you are having a little trouble working with this colour on your eyelids, you can always work with other parts of your face. One way is to dab a little in the centre of a pair of red lips to make your pout fuller. (:

The Apex Beauté Pack (worth $29.80) is available at $15.90 on BlackBox. (Psst! Key in BBXCJ10 for a 10% discount!)

EVENT: Watsons' Girls' Day Out

Back in March, I attended Watson's Girls' Day Out with Fel. It was the drugstore's 27th birthday and they were launching several new brands/ products and also, their very own Watsons eStore! ああ～ Shopping in the comfort of my own home is the best thing ever. No crowds, no sweltering heat, no lugging of heavy bags... Really, everything should be done online (Though convenience does spell trouble for the pockets... Ahem.). Haha.

Anyway, here are 5 brands/ products that I'm really looking forward to discover:

1. Asience
   This hair care brand has been with me since secondary school (Well, on and off. I still like Shiseido Tsubaki best.) because Mum loves it. They are revamping their formula to include a new Beauty Serum, which is a concentrated infusion of precious oils and essences. 2 ranges are available - Inner Rich for dry, frizzy and unmanageable hair and Nature Smooth for oily scalp and tangled ends.
2. Bioderma
   I have been using the Créaline H2O Micellar Solution for about 2 years now and it cleans off makeup effectively and without any irritation. Last month, they launched the Sensibio Lait Cleansing Milk which contains the Toleridine patent. It increases skin's tolerance level and reduces skin's sensitivity over time.
3. Béne Premium
   This line is created by award-wining professional hair care brand, MoltoBene. It is formulated to be enzyme-rich and free from silicones through the use of only the best natural ingredients. 2 ranges are available - Bluria to restore hair health through deep cleansing and Rougeria to rejuvenate damaged hair with intense conditioning.
4. Honeycé
   Another line under MoltoBene, this one targets both the hair and the scalp with the use of different types of honey. 2 ranges are available - Moisture Repair Series contains 8 different types of honey to care for even the most damaged hair and Juicy Spa Series which improves overall hair and scalp conditions with clay, sea salt lemon, royal jelly and honey.
5. Kustie
   Formulated in France, this brand uses a potent concoction of specially handpicked flowers, essential oils and natural nutrients for an indulgent and luxurious shower. 4 ranges are available - Rose, Chamomile, Cherry Blossom and Lavender. They are suitable for all skin types.

ATM: A Weekend Affair with Za Cosmetics x BlackBox

Just in case you have been too caught up with life, this Saturday is V-Day! I know it has been said many times that it has got too commercialized and that every day should be V-day... But I still think it's fun to do a little something special for your family, friends and of course, that special someone. *grins*

Here are 3 ideas that you and your loved ones might want to do this weekend:

1. Make your own chocolates.
   No food spells love better than chocolates. Especially when they are lovingly crafted by you and your loved ones. Recently, I have been watching tons of Ochikeron's videos and she has just the right recipe for you here.

2. Have dinner away from the city.
   Our island is getting pretty crowded and on this special day, I think some quiet would be nice. Heh. Buttercake N Cream is a little diner tucked away in a little corner of Clementi. It was where I spent my first V-day and though things didn't work out, the place remains special to me. And I hope it will be for you too. (:

3. Snuggle in bed with pjs and a romcom.
   Self-explanatory, haha! Highly recommended movies are 'Breakfast at Tiffany's', 'Roman Holiday', 'Sixteen Candles', 'Pretty in Pink', 'When Harry Met Sally', 'Sleepless in Seattle', 'While You Were Sleeping', 'You've Got Mail' and 'Kate & Leopold'. Mmhmm... Now, I feel like rewatching all of them. Haha.

And if you are thinking of getting a gift, Za Cosmetics and BlackBox have specially come together to bring you an exclusive box, A Weekend Affair, that is perfect for two. Read on to find out what's inside! :D

For Him

• ZA Men U Recharge Gel Moisturiser $12.90 for 50g
  This moisturizer transforms dull and tired-looking skin to one that's bright and healthy. It contains an oil-absorbing mud, which is rich in minerals that are essential in maintaining the moisture of the skin.
• ZA Men U Recharge Gentle Scrub $9.90 for 100g
  This mud scrub/ cleanser contains energy capsules and taurine. It revitalizes and gives skin a good deep cleanse, whilst eliminating fatigue

For Her

• ZA True White Cleansing Form $12.90 for 100g
  This brightening cleansing foam contains vitamin C granules that helps remove dead corneal cells containing melanin, revealing a brighter and clearer complexion.
• ZA True White Essence Lotion $23.50 for 150g
  This lotion is formulated with whitening ingredients, '4MSK + VitaminC (APM)', and hot spring water which contains Vitamin C essence capsules (VC-IP). The thick liquid hydrates the skin to make it translucent, reducing dark spots in 7 days with an enhanced whitening effect.
• ZA True White Day Protector $13.50 for 35g
  This daytime moisturizer protects the skin from harmful UV rays while mattifying skin and controlling sebum. The pearly brightening effect diminishes dullness and leaves your skin looking bright. It doubles up as a makeup base.
• ZA True White Exfoliating Clay $15.90 for 100g
  This clay mask transforms dull and UV damaged skin into soft and clear skin instantly.

• Za Liquid Eyeliner $19.50 for 30ml
  Smudge-proof, water-proof and resistant to water and sebum, this product adheres perfectly to the eyelids, with a beautiful, long-lasting finish.
• Za Vibrant Moist Lipstick $18.90 for 3.5g This lipstick comes with a moisture-holding formula and achieves vibrant color with its superior lip-adhesion base compound, spreading smoothly and fittingly – contouring lips beautifully without smudge.

Thanks again for staying till the end! I'll be holding a giveaway for 3 boxes of A Weekend Affair on Instagram (@charlenejudith), so do keep a lookout. :D And if you're purchasing anything from BlackBox, key in BBXCJ10 for a 10% discount. Last but not least, have a very special V-day! :DDD

REVIEW: The Rachel K Box (Light) by BlackBox

Rachel K Cosmetics was started in 2010 by Rachel K, who was crowned Miss Universe Singapore in the previous year. When I first knew the brand, I thought it was a tad gimmicky because it was marketed as 'Beauty Queen's Makeup Secrets'. But fate happened, I bought it, fell in love almost instantly and raved about it here. When the brand went for a revamp, I was swimming in a pool of other brands and got sidetracked. So I was only too eager (As usual. Haha.) to try out the new products when I received The Rachel K Box earlier this month. Heh.

This exclusive BlackBox edition houses the following:

• Rachel K's CC Renew Pressed Powder in Light (full-sized)
• Rachel K's Supreme Whitening Lotion (full-sized)
• Rachel K's Stem Cell Cleansing Gel (1.5g x 3 sachets)
• Rachel K's Youth Spell Day Cream (1.5g x 2 sachets)

Rachel K's CC Renew Pressed Powder
What it is: This CC powder contains a unique colour-correcting complex that instantly perfects skin with organic shea butter, an anti-oxidant complex and Vitamin E to keep ageing at bay. Just a few pats and it reveals a complexion that's flawless, smooth and naturally luminous. It is talc free, paraben free, non-comedogenic, dermatologically tested and comes in 3 shades; Very Light, Light and Medium.

What I think: I have this powder in Light, which blends seamlessly into my skin. It helps to conceal the redness that I usually have around my nose and on my cheeks, giving a matte and very even complexion. Small zits are carefully hidden as well, though big ones will peek through. My T-zone starts to get oily after about 4 hours, so this compact is really handy. I like that it has a small plate that separates the sponge from the powder, so that the sponge doesn't collect too much of the powder.

One thing to note though, if you are applying a thick sunblock, do make sure that the sunblock has sunk in completely before patting on the powder (I have been way too pampered with my mattifying powder that I forgot! Eeps.). Alternatively, use a sunblock with a matte finish!

Rachel K's Supreme Whitening Lotion
What it is: This lotion takes your skin from dull to brilliant with its breakthrough natural ingredients of Octadecenedioic Acid (Lightens skin tone by regulating tyrosinase within skin cells.), Delentigo (Halts the development of age spots by regulating the formation of lipofuscin and melanin.), β White (Corrects the MITF cellular pathway to decrease various types of pigmentation.) and SEPICALM VG (Decreases regular pigmentation induced by inflammatory stress, and Basal pigmentation caused by genetic ageing.). It is also enriched with aloe vera extract which helps to cleanse and refine your skin.

What I think: This is my favourite product out of the lot! The lotion is so light that it sinks into my skin almost immediately, leaving a cooling and refreshing feeling. My skin feels soft and hydrated, and is well-prepped for my moisturizer. Though I wish that it didn't have fragrance, the scent is actually quite pleasant. As for its whitening effects, I didn't think it would do much because I'm quite fair already. But a friend actually commented that I was fairer than before the other day, which made me incredibly happy! :D If I don't have any other products to try out, I will be repurchasing this!

Rachel K's Stem Cell Cleansing Gel
What it is: This cleanser is formulated with PhytoCellTec™ technology that boosts the natural performance of human skin stem cells. It prevents the loss of moisture and maintains your skin's balance naturally, bathing it in the goodness of witch hazel and aloe vera.

Rachel K's Youth Spell Day Cream
What it is: This balancing day cream regulates the secretion of sebum in both dry and oily skins, ensuring that your pores never get clogged. It is formulated with Matrixyl™ 3000 to prevent wrinkles and a unique mixture of Bamboo-silk and Rice-silk which work together to absorb sebum, leaving you with hydrated, plump and soft skin.

What I think: I only had sachets to try, so here are my first impressions. For the cleanser, it smelt a tad 'funky' but I like that it didn't leave my skin feeling tight after the wash. For the day cream, it stung upon application but it went away soon after. And though it felt heavy to touch, it was absorbed by my skin quite easily so there was no greasy after-feeling. It was actually quite comfy!

The Rachel K Box (worth $75) is available at $49.90 on BlackBox. (Psst! Key in BBXCJ10 for a 10% discount!)

REVIEW: December's BlackBox

If you haven't already seen, I became a BlackBox influencer last December. Really appreciate the opportunity, so big thank you to Melle and Zoe for roping me in! :D

Now, what exactly is BlackBox?

There are so many brands and products coming out all the time, promising to do this and that. Beauty junkies like me will want to 'catch 'em all' but we often need to purchase them in full sizes, even when we aren't certain if they would work out for us. So here, is where BlackBox comes in! BlackBox offers samples of the latest brands and products, so that we can try them out first before making commitments of any sort. It is basically the quintessential lifestyle kit for you to get a taste of everything at pocket-friendly prices; $5.90 for 4 samples or $9.90 for 9 samples, which you can pick!

Here's what I received last month:

Tahpre's Everyday Mask
What it is: This 5-in-1 treatment silk mask is 100% essence base of aronia extract essence, antioxidants, anthocyanin, Vitamin B and Vitamin C. Formulated for everyday use, it helps to moisturize, whiten, maintain your skin's elasticity and replenish nutrients.

What I think: I'm always a little wary when using new skincare products, especially when it's from brands I have never heard of. I mean, I get excited and all but you know, I have only one face which is made compulsory by biology to show it to the world. Heh. I tried googling this brand and ummm, didn't find much. But I really like is that it's free from parabens, artifical preservatives, artificial dyes, artificial perfumes and mineral oils.

Anyway, it was with a lot of caution that I placed this mask on my face and I was constantly trying to feel for any stinging because I have sensitive skin. But it was so comfy that I only remembered I had it on when my Anime finished. Haha. When I took it off, my skin was hydrated and looked brighter and clearer, with a visible reduction in redness around my nose and my cheeks. I have only used this thrice, so I can't vouch for its long-term effects. BUT it does make a pretty good everyday mask!

Klarity's Lasertox CC Miracle White Lotion
What it is: This lotion helps to restore your natural beauty with diamond powder sans stickiness and oily shine. It also contains wild rosehip extract to help prolong your skin's youthfulness. It comes with a sunscreen factor of SPF30 PA++.

What I think: This lotion is highly raved by local beauty bloggers and I was quite eager to try it. It comes out white, so it will instantly brighten any complexion when you have it on. I have pretty fair skin, so it blends right in and doesn't look too jarring. It's works great as a base; lightweight, feels like a second skin and provides a smooth canvas for foundation to go on. I'm trying to use less makeup, so I use this alone with some concealer if need be. I haven't experienced any irritations but in Singapore's weather, I still apply some mattifying powder over it.

Avalon's NaturBeauty Skin Whitening
What it is: This packet contains little sachets that help to promote skin whitening and moisturize your skin from inside out in 28 days. Clinically proven, it helps reduce 85% of melanin production, blocks 67% of UV rays and provides up to 8X more water absorption capacity.

What I think: I have a sweet tooth, so this really makes my taste buds go into a frenzy! Unlike other supplements I have tried, this can actually be eaten straight from the convenient slim sachets. However, it's a little tough spotting effects from oral supplements for me because I'm not very regular with them. Also, even though I really like the taste, I think it can be a little too sweet for everyday consumption.

Ladrome's Purifying Herbal tea with Tangerine
What I think: Being a creature of habit, I rarely stray from green tea. So this was a refreshing change. Haha. I love the tangy tangerine (HAHA.) notes because it really perks you up. Works great as a way to start or end work!

Omical's Real Organic Calcium Tablets
What it is: This organic calcium helps promote strong and healthy bones and teeth in one small tablet.

What I think: I'm lactose-intolerant, so I don't drink milk very often. I do understand the importance of calcium because I live with my Gran. So yeah, it's great that I have these tablets as an alternative source of calcium and they are really convenient, especially when work gets busy (I take a couple of supplements every morning!)

Dr+Nu:ell's BB Cream SPF30 Triple Action (not pictured)
What it is: This B.B. cream contains polyglutamic acid from Korean natto beans to moisturize skin, radish root ferment filtrate to purify skin, arbutin for whitening and adenosine for anti-wrinkle effects. It leaves your skin supple, helathy and naturally radiant.

What I think: I received this separately from the rest, hence no photo. I was really looking forward to its arrival because... B.B. creams excite me? HAHA. I mean, there's something so 'alluring' about multi-functional products, no? #crazybeautyjunkiehere Okay, anyway, this comes out as a light beige, but it does darken after a while to match my skin tone. It dries to a matte finish and sits very light and comfortably on my skin. It hides redness but spots will probably need some help from a concealer. Also, you will still need a mattifying powder in our unforgiving weather!

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And I'm finally done! I know I can get pretty long-winded. I mean, even when it comes to Math, my secondary school teacher told me I'm long-winded. Like whut, okay. Haha. Anyway, if you're going to purchase a BlackBox, key in BBXCJ10 for a 10% discount! :D Alrighty, TGIF!

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.

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:

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

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: Benefit's Chachatint and Chachabalm

When Lennard decided to make a trip back to Singapore a couple of months back, I got him to get me Benefit's latest babies from the States; Benebalm, Posiebalm, Chachabalm and Lollibalm. Yes, all 4 - something which he couldn't comprehend.

"Why do you need 4 lip balms and they are so expensive la?!?"
"Because I'm a girl?" *gives him the duh face*

Haha. Anyway, I wanted to see how orange would look on my Asian skin tone the other day so I pulled out my mini Chachatint (Bought from Singapore Best Buy World.), Chachabalm and to create an entire Benefit look, the World's Famous Neutrals kit (Bought from Daily Vanity.) as well, and proceeded to take a million and one photos (Yes, I took many product shots that day. The sun was kind and the lighting was perf.).

The Chachatint is described as a mango-tint that bathes your lips and cheeks with a beautiful tropical coral hue. And of course, the Chachabalm is the accompaniment for it, except that it's just meant for the lips. The latter is formulated with mango butter and sodium hyaluronate to give you the softest and juiciest lips.

I drew 3 tiny strokes of Chachatint on each of my cheeks and blended them in with my fingers. And because I was using a liquid foundation beneath, my cheeks did not feel dry. For my lips, I used only Chachabalm. It was rather sheer but it did lend some colour to my lips. It was definitely hydrating and I like that it was a tad glossy without being the least bit sticky.

Ending off with a peek at the eyeshadows from the World's Famous Neutrals kit. (:

REVIEW: Star Lash's Liquid Perfect Tough Eyeliner WP in Rich Black

I hardly ever stray from my favourite K-Palette and Maybelline New York liquid eyeliners because they are so black, so smudge-proof and so easy to draw with. But I finished them a while back and was looking through my beauty stash when I found Star Lash's Liquid Perfect Tough Eyeliner WP in Rich Black, which I received quite a while back (Heh.). The 0.7ml eyeliner is said to give you the 'perfect sleek liquid black to line your eyes with'. With the pointed tip, it helps you draw precise lines that are long-lasting and smudge-proof.

The brush of the Star Lash Liquid Perfect Tough Eyeliner is a little thicker than my usual aforementioned liners, but the same thin lines can still be achieved depending on how you angle it. The brush is firm and just the right amount of liquid is dispensed, making drawing very easy (Beginners, this liner is for you!). I wear this throughout the day and experience no smudging at all. Right before I shower, I clean this off with Bioré's Micellar Cleansing Water (Review coming up soon!) and everything comes right off, leaving no stain. (:

Mmhmm... New favourite eyeliner? :D