The Minimalism Project: 2018 Edition

The first time Dad increased my pocket money, 7-year old me went straight to the bookshop and spent it all on star-shaped stickers to give to Dad because... I really didn't need them? Lol. What even. Anyway, ever since then, I have just been spending money away. It was a way of relieving stress for me (Think: Retail BS therapy.) but then, I was spending on things which, again, I didn't need. Also, I'm a massive hoarder because 'just in case'. So, for the year 2018, I'm going to really make an attempt to cut out the frivolities in my life. It's a little ambitious for me to go on a year of no shopping. Hence, I'll be embarking on two little 'projects' here on my blog.

Beauty products make a large part of the furniture in my room, so naturally there's The Minimalism Project I: Beauty Expenses which will be a complete record of my sins. It's going to be a single entry which I'll keep updating whenever I buy a beauty product, whether it's a replacement or a new fixture.

And because I have bought way too many clothes to just throw them away and be Marie Kondo, The Minimalism Project II: Something 'New' Every Week will feature a piece of clothing which I have been saving for that (elusive) one special day. ( ಠ◡ಠ )

Wish me luck! x

Keeping it clear with Naruko Tea Tree Shine Control & Blemish Clear Mask

Reddit loves Naruko and hence, I love Naruko. Lol. No, I actually tested several products before pledging my undying love for said brand (Again. Used to really love it and then, I got distracted.). One of which is the Tea Tree Shine Control & Blemish Clear Mask. This mask contains activated carbon to help control sebum production, maintains oil-water balance in skin and prevents acne. I was initially apprehensive about it because it contains fragrance and I try to avoid it as much as possible. But there were just too many Asian Beauty Redditors raving about this and so, I got a box. And then, another box. Then, 2 more boxes... *grins*

I put this on right after cleansing my face. Sometimes, I add a little Face Renewal Miracle Essence just because some people feel that your skin absorbs better when it's a little damp. The fit is almost right for my face, though a wee bit short on the nose flap. And then, I Netflix (STRANGER THINGS IS SO GOOD. HOMAIGAWD. Steve Harrington ♥.). Instructions say to keep it on for 5 to 10 minutes but being a rebel, I leave it on until it starts to feel dry.

When I take the mask off, my skin looks super fair and clear. Redness from blemishes, on my more sensitive inner cheeks and at the sides of my nose is reduced. And it stays that way. You know how some masks only have an instant effect, like for-the-moment kind of thing. Well, this, this goes beyond that. I feel like it's a treatment, rather than a quick perk-me-up. Will definitely keep repurchasing this! ♥

Exfoliating with IDS Facial Scrub

There was quite a lot of hype around IDS (Innovative Dermatological Solutions) a while back so I got curious and decided to try the facial scrub, which is very well-received online. But it seems like the brand underwent a revamp and what I have above is the old version. I'm not sure if it's just packaging but here's a review anyways.

I got the IDS Facial Scrub last August and I have been using it on and off ever since. It is still SGD62 for a 50ml tube, which is pretty pricey but you just need a pinch of it. After showering, I apply this to my face in gentle, circular motions. The beads are very fine and it heats up a little as you scrub. My skin is left feeling very smooth and soft once I wash it off... But this is also the case with other scrubs. I didn't notice any visible changes in my complexion.

I won't be repurchasing this because there are more pocket-friendly alternatives that give me the same effect but this is still a brand that I would continue to explore (Like the Lyco-White! So tempting but so expensive too. :\).