Review: Bonabella Tea Tree Purifying Mask

While I am still collecting photos and doing my due diligence for my current at-home treatments, I wanted to squeeze in this review for an item I received last week... the Bonabella Tea Tree Purifying Mask!

Sample Sachet that I received with my purchase

According to ksisters (who sent this sample along with my Bebetox purchase - which I will write a detailed review soon), this is a very popular wash off mask in Korea right now and it is also known as the "Fine Dust Removal Mask"?

Honestly, when I heard the name of the item, it seems like I've already fallen for it, at least 50% anyway. As the name suggests, one of the main ingredients in this wash off mask is Tea Tree and I've always loved tea tree! Ever since my teenage years, it's an essential oil that I turn to whenever I breakout. Tea tree is well known for its anti inflammatory, antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. The anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in relieving the discomfort of dry, itchy and irritated skin. The antiseptic properties also support its ability to combat oily skin, and even helps treat dandruff. Essentially Tea Tree helps calm redness, swelling and also inflammation, leaving you with smoother, clearer skin.

The Bonabella Tea Tree Purifying Mask also includes another 2 main ingredients, The Houttuynia cordata, more commonly known as "chameleon plant" or "heart leaf" also has antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-microbial properties. As well as Puretox. Couldn't really find much information about this but from what I can gather, Puretox helps you achieve brighter complexion.

Looks like there's "dirt" on my face. LOLS.

So all in all, the Bonabella Tea Tree Purifying Mask helps you "remove fine dust" and recover the balance of irritated skin. Recently, I had to visit a few dusty sites due to new store opening preparation in a new mall and when this sample came, I couldn't wait to try it.

After using it, I could feel that my skin is very gently cleansed. Honestly, I feel that the mask also did a very, very, very (and I cannot emphasise how 'very') gentle exfoliation because my skins feels so much softer and smoother after. At the same time, I don't know if it's just me but I do seem to feel that my complexion is indeed brighter and my face feels so soft and "boing boing" just after 1 use. The product smells very natural. There is no artificial fragrance (or at least none that I can smell). Jelly like texture that does not dry out your skin.

Comparison of Before and After. Looks brighter.

I am definitely stocking up on this! Going into my #permastash for now. And the best news yet! As ksisters is launching this item at the "Takashimaya Salebration" at B2 Takashimaya square from 10 July to 21 July, there is also a new launch exclusive discount of 20% for 4 tubs purchased! Usual retail price is approximately SGD55 per tub but with this exclusive launch discount, each tub is only priced at SGD44 (SGD11 off each tub)! You can share with your friends or family if you think 4 tubs is too much, but I really think it's worth a permanent stock up space in your #skincareshelfie.


till next time~
xoxo

A background of my skin type...

Okay. So before I begin diving into skincare and the at home treatments I am going through right now... A background about my skin type.

I used to have very oily skin and breakouts quite often as a teenager. But lately, I would say that my skin is a combination of oily and sensitive skin. Sensitive and sensitize because my skin is rather thin (you see all the veins easily), and sensitize likely due to the many products I have slathered on as a teen to curb those pesky breakouts.

So now, while my T-zones can get very oily... my nose (epecially the 2 curves right below) and my cheeks can sometimes get quite red/ flushed. And with oily skin, I am also troubled with rather large pores on my nose and yes, blackheads are always an issue.

Heads up on what's going to be covered in the near future. As promised, the "at home" treatments I'm going through right now:
• Serendi Beauty, Sparkling Pack
• Some By Mi, Green Tea Bubble Tox Cleanser
• Dr UnM, Bebetox
• Miraskin Rx Lift

I'll not only share reviews, but also where I usually get my skincare (especially if there is a good bargain)! Till next time!

Moving forward

It's been a while since I have had any ideas for the blog and I've gotten sick of ranting about work. Pretty sure the readers are too. So here's what I'm going to do.

Since skincare trends changes often, and that I am of the age where my skin is "transforming", I will be writing detailed reviews of what I am currently using and what "treatments" I do to maintain. Starting with the treatments and then what I am using (because I am currently testing new products)! I suddenly feel so excited over this. Hehs. Looking forward!!! :)

Why is sunblock important and why do you need it?

It's been 3 months since my last post. This time, I'm back to talk about something that is everywhere in our everyday lives. UV rays! They are everywhere - the sun, your phone and even your lights. Technical terms aside, know this! Your skin ages with you every single day whether you see it physically or not.

Time for a little story telling.

My mum has always been blessed with good skin. You know, those irritating few that washes their face with nothing but water and yet manages to keep it blemish/ acne/ oil free. Yeah, that’s her! In recent months, she’s noticed some dark spots around her eyes, and when she asked me, I knew her skin wasn’t magic after all.

All her life, she has never has indulged in any of the skincare products or tips that I love. At least not until recently when she realised her skin gets a bit dry in the mornings after she wakes up, and decides to throw on a sleeping pack before she sleeps each night.

So why did the magic disappear? To be honest, I think the magic did it’s best. To begin with, my mum is already in her mid 60s and for her freckles to only start acting out now, with zero maintenance, is already a miracle.

If you’ve got good skin like my mum, you might be thinking sun care doesn’t concern me. Well it does! It just doesn’t concern you now but them freckles will still come and bite you in your ass face no matter how old you are. And if you’re not as blessed with good skin, you know what you need to do. Right?

Since my mum has never really applied anything on her face before, she is very reluctant to start. But knowing now that if she doesn’t do anything, more freckles will just keep appearing. To better help her listen, I looked around and found her a light product that doesn’t require a lot of effort for starters - the Laroche Posay Athelios Sunblock Spray with Anti Gloss.

Photo taken from Laroche Posay Website

I’ve always loved the convenience of sprays as mentioned in many of my previous posts. Previously, I’ve used sprays from another L brand before, but I think I’m little sensitive to some of the ingredients cause my skin tends itch after some time. So imagine my happiness when I found a sunblock spray that is suitable for people with sensitive skin?

Now, all you have to do is to spritz on your face (not exceeding 3s in each spot) before you head out of the house. On rare days that I have make up on, I use this after my makeup has been set. I also have a bottle of this in my office pedestal for me to spray on, if I’m heading out for site visits or for an outdoor lunch. My mum also loves the fact that she doesn’t need to wash her hands, before or after the application. And I strongly recommend this for people that are starting out with suncare and hates hassle.

However, this may be a little tough to bring around when you’re traveling due to the aerosol nature. As I travel quite a lot for work, I always get stopped by the customs officer when they “scanned” something flammable. So I decided that I had to look for something that is small and easy to carry around and I came across the innisfree Sunstick when I was strolling the Shilla Duty Free shop in Changi Airport.

Photo taken from Innisfree world

Slightly wider in width, and transparent in colour

I realised, though, that the innisfree stores in Singapore no longer carry this. There’s also this other option, a tone up sunstick that is also not available in neither Innisfree Singapore nor Shilla. You can only get it from Korea, or the innisfree world website. Its as simple as it looks, for the original sunstick, just draw and colour it on your face as if you’re using a thick marker. For the tone up stick, some hand application is needed to blend it out. So clean your hands!

Photo taken from Innisfree world

Tone up stick is slightly coloured,
so you might need to blend it

My last and final recommendation is my newfound love, the IWLT (i woke up like this) sun cream that’s being distributed by ksisters in Singapore. 

Photo taken from Ksisters Website.
Sun Cream

This is the most “troublesome” product because you have to blend it out, but this is also the most amazing product because it provides an awesome coverage for your skin, auto-correcting and brightening up your face after usage. This range of products are also friendly for pregnant ladies as well as people with sensitive skin (like me). If the pregnant ladies can use it, you know how gentle this is! Using it on its own is sufficient but I realised, using it with either or its 2 buddies (BB cream or Primer) will also provide some sebum control.

Photo taken from Ksisters Website.
BB Cream

Photo taken from Ksisters Website.
Primer

p.s. I noticed that Innisfreeworld will be shutting it services by 21st June 2019.

If you're really looking for items that are not available in innisfree stores singapore, I guess you can go through airfrov for someone to get it back for you. Or, you can go through not so "official channels" like qoo10.

Which is better - Cleansing Oil or Cleansing Balm?

Is there really something better than the other? 

The order is in no way any indication of the question because I believe it's all personal preference - as long as it cleanses your skin without drying out! To be honest, I'm not a fan of cleansing water as I quite dislike the idea of dragging cotton pads across my face anymore than I need to. And not forgetting the fact that I always find that with cleansing water, it's like, you're just adding another layer of product over your skin. Something like Febreeze when you don't really wash your clothes but you spray another layer to deodorise the smell. Not too sure if it's making any sense, but I'm always a "wash-off = clean" girl, and whatever stays should be beneficial to your skin like 'sheet masks' and 'sleeping packs'.

So yeah, here's how I choose what to use - since I always have both Cleansing Oil and Cleansing Balm at home (featuring my favourite products).

NeoGen Real Cica Micellar Cleansing Oil

This is something I've discovered very recently - only late last year and it has served me well.

Photo credits: Google

I will recommend people with sensitive skin to use this as this cleanser has 'Cica' and 'Cica' is believed to be able to soothe and repair irritated skin. I usually use this when my skin is inflammed (when I battle acne on my 'magical days'), sensitive, or when I only have sunblock on.

Tip-Bit! Always remove your sunscreen with a make up remover no matter what the your sunscreen bottle says because no sunblock can be a 100% non-comedogenic. 

Banila Co "Clean it Zero"

I've written a detailed review on this a few years back and I stand by it! Till date, 'Clean it Zero' is my favourite cleansing balm. They've (not so) recently changed their packaging from a more 'sophisticated' design to a more 'clean' design - which I actually prefer.

Photo Credit: Google

I'll usually use a cleansing balm when I have eye makeup on. The reason? Personally, the cleansing balm is easier to control the 'seepage'. When I use cleansing oil on my eyes, it often seeps into my eyes no matter how tight I shut them and well, that is not healthy for anyone. When I use a cleansing balm like the 'Clean it Zero', it is easier to control, does what it should, and cleans everything out. What's best, because it is easier to control, it does not seep into my eyes and I don't open them to a milky vision.

Tip-Bit! It's always a good practice to rinse your eyes with water no matter what cleanser you are using. Rinse out your eyes so that there is nothing remaining - whether you see it or not - so that you don't get an infection. 

Anyhow. Speaking of sunblock, I will be writing something about it very soon.

Toner and my mist recipe

Talk about toner and my "mist-ing" recipe. Pun intended. I know I've promised my facial mist/ toner recipe for quite some time and it's still missing. By the end of this post, you'll know!

I love the Hada Labo Whitening Lotion as a toner. In fact, I love all the various Hada Labo lotion lines for its cheap price and its clean ingredients. It's ph balanced, free of fragrance, mineral oil, alcohol and colourant and most important of all, all ingredients are non-comedogenic! I also love myself a good mist I can use throughout the day without feeling too sticky and yet, it has to have a good balance of moisturising effect because I fly a lot for work and I got to keep my skin moisturised during flights. I've tried a lot of facial mists and nothing really stuck. So I thought to mix my 2 loves together. But as much as I love the Hada Labo Whitening Lotion, I cannot use it as a spray mist because it is too viscous. If you use it on its own in a spray bottle, it will come out as a jet and trust me, that hurts! HAHA. So I am always trying to dilute it but diluting it with water is like mehhh. So I was super happy when I came across the Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioner. It comes in a very generous 500ml bottle that only retails at approximately 11SGD. You can find it in Guardian or SASA stores in Singapore and you can snap more up during the regular Guardian's 3 for 2 sale. Super worth it!

With some DIY, I found my all-time favourite mist:
♥ Hada Labo Whitening Lotion,
♥ Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioner,
♥ Mario Badescu Rosewater Toner (optional), and,
♥ a spray bottle!

Depending on the size of your spray bottle, mix them all up with 1 part Hada Labo Whitening Lotion, 2 parts Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioner, and 1 part Mario Badescu Rosewater Toner. 

Rose water is actually optional but I add it in because my skin is quite sensitive and it tends to look a little reddish in the afternoon, so on top of the wonderful smell, I like that Rose water helps to calm it down. It's up to you if you want to add it!

In the previous post, I was talking about storing a pump bottle of toner in your bathroom so that you can lock in the most moisture in your skin. Thing is, I actually have 2 bottles of toner in my bathroom - one in a pump bottle and the other in a spray bottle.

The reason? 

Well. Koreans talk about layering your toners - the 7 skin method - the Klog talks about it as well. But depending on your skin condition, the 7 skin method may not be the most effective for you. In fact, you may not need 7 layers after all. Also in a humid country like Singapore, you're probably gonna feel very sticky very quickly if you're doing all 7 layers of toner, especially if your toner is very rich. So how do you go with layering your toner?

I keep one pump bottle of the Hada Labo Whitening Lotion in the bathroom that I use for the "Toner Dry" method (this bottle only contains the Hada Labo Whitening Lotion). Pump a few pumps onto dry cotton/ toning pads and dry your face with it. 

Then comes my 2nd spray bottle of toner that I also keep in the bathroom. I usually spritz it on before leaving the bathroom and this is technically the 2nd layer already. From the bathroom to my room, I'll usually spray on another layer when I get to my room before slathering on my moisturiser. Yes, I have another bottle of the mist in my room amongst my vanity closet too! Personally, I think 3 layers is more than enough for me. Any more and I will feel sticky and uncomfortable. So, don't just go smacking 7 layers immediately. Listen to what your skin needs and your skin will thank you for it. Hope these little tips help! Cheers.

How to make your skin retain the most moisture?

I think this is something that everyone wants to know but is not very sure if it's true or if it's just a rumor because I'm pretty sure many of you would have read somewhere before that you need to start toning and moisturising within 3 to 5 minutes of getting out of the shower and I dare say now that IT IS TRUE!

To better prove the theory and why I am actually believing in it, I got myself a moisture analyser from Qoo10 to check the percentages. You can find many similar versions of the moisture analyser online from Qoo10, Lazada and more. Anyhow, for the first experiment, I dried my face with a towel, took the first measurement, and waited 5 mins to take the second measurement without anything on my face - just my bare fare after cleansing.

Moisture loss is a whopping 13% within that 5 mins, and the oil ratio just rocketed from 18% to 30%, a crazy 12% difference. It's like with every bit of loss in moisture, your skin works harder and produces more oil and I'm honestly shocked. I knew I have a relatively oily face, but the figures are scary.

So on another day, I did the similar experiment but this time after drying my face with a towel, I slapped on toner immediately and took the first measurement. Waited 5 mins and took the second measurement and below is what I got.

Sorry the word "Moisturiser" is misleading.
I only used Toner at this point in time.

Moisture ratio reduced only 3% within that 5 mins and oil percentage was relatively well controlled. Compared with the previous experiment, are you able to see the difference of locking in the moisture within the first 3 minutes of wash? So, start slathering on your toners and moisturises immediately after your shower. I'm pretty sure you can spare that extra minute in the shower before you head on to other stuff.

Right! One more thing!
Know how I started this post saying the theory is "to start start toning and moisturising within 3 to 5 minutes of getting out of the shower"? I've most recently heard people say it's actually 3 secs after wash!!! Honestly, I think it is impossible to prove this. But, I had an idea... To dry my face using toner pad instead of a towel.

Logically, when you pat your face dry with a dry towel, that towel absorbs every bit of water from your face. So, if I were to skip it up and use a toning pad instead, I'll be wiping water off with relatively wet tissues. Would it help?

So I brought the analyser into the bathroom with me and on the top photo, I towel dried my face and the moisture reading was 51.4%. On the lower photo, I toner dried my face and moisture reading was 58.3%. To be very honest, I don't know if anything else affected these results but I do feel more "poing-poing" on my face when I try the Toner Drying method and I think my skin likes it more.

As much as possible, keep a small pump bottle of toner in your bathroom and dry your face using the "Toner Dry" method instead. All you have to do is, pump a few pumps of your toner onto some cotton/ toning pads, and wipe them across your face. 

Review: Medicube Zero Line & Blue Erasing Cream

I drafted this to complete by the end of last week but was down with the sniffles so I didn't manage to complete it. Anyhow, here I am with the review of the highly raved Medicube series. I'm only focusing on 3 products, the Zero Line Pore Pad, the Zero Line Pore Serum, and finally the Blue Erasing Cream. Basically I continued with my regular cleanser, followed with the Zero Line Pore Pad, then the Zero Line Pore Serum and then the Blue Erasing Cream.

The reason why Medicube got me interested was because of the ZERO LINE Pore series. I am always troubled with large pores on my T zone, nose and chin. And because of this, I am always skipping moisturising creams because creams are often comedogenic. So, I'm going to start the review from the moisturiser, then serum, then toner.

BLUE ERASING CREAM

I love how this cream smells and feels on the skin. It's very light. For someone like me with oily-combination skin, this is a very good moisturiser because it's very lightweight and it does make my skin feel good.

According to Medicube, this Blue Erasing Cream is made for people that:
• are looking for moisturising cream for sensitive skin that is non-sticky,
• have oily skin with little hydration.

My skin is quite 'thin' - like literally. The veins are always obvious on my cheeks but I noticed after 2 weeks, that the veins are less obvious. It's really quite a non-irritant mild daily cream. I use it day and night and because its so lightweight, I don't get all the "frying pan" glow on my face even in the afternoon. Like I mentioned earlier, most creams are comedogenic but the Medicube series claims that their entire series is non-comedogenic. This is something I wasn't very comfortable with at first because it was impossible to find the ingredients list online and I'm pretty sure the ingredients are all in korean - if they are listed on the box. But here's the thing. After I took the leap of faith to try it, I realised I did not get any breakouts and my blackheads were manageable as always. To conclude, the Blue Erasing Cream is definitely a repeat purchase item on my list!

ZERO PORE SERUM

The Pore Serum is actually very lightweight and I mainly focus using this on 3 areas at my main concern large pores area.

One pump is usually enough to cover my T zone, nose and chin area. The smell is also quite alright. Nothing too artificial and not with too much fragrance.

On my first use, there is a bit of tingling sensation on the skin. However, this sensation stopped in less than 3 days. I'm not sure if it's a good or bad thing but I somehow relate the tingling to the product trying to reduce my pores! But when the tingling ended and when my review started, I can only be disappointed.

Left taken on 23-Nov-2018; Right taken on 7-Jan-2019

Sorry for the bad photo. They are in different light, the left photo is slightly out of focus compared to the right and it's rather zoomed in as compared to the one on the right. To be honest, I cannot remember I used both the front camera of my phone or not cause the right one is so clear... Anyhow, I think the pores does look smaller in the 1.5 months I used the product but only very minutely. Repeat purchase? Maybe. 

ZERO PORE PAD

Lastly, the pore pad that EVERYONE is raving about. The amount of toner inside this tub is generous! The pads are always soaked and good to go. When I first started using this, I think my skin was not so happy with it. My nose started peeling abit and it was difficult to get usage instructions. I mean, I know all you have to do is to take out one piece, use the embossed side first to gently exfoliate your skin and follow with the smooth side to hydrate your skin. But how many times do you use this? It's nowhere found on the box or on the official medicube website. I did, however, chanced upon a reply on the message board that the zero pad is to be used day and night. Will include the screenshot and link to the message board. 

But yes, I think this is a little strong for people with sensitive skin to start using it both day and night immediately. So I'm gonna suggest that people with sensitive skin start this only in the night for a week or two... then move on to do this day and night.

I always write the date on my bottles so that I know how fast I'm using them. And the only reason this bottle lasted so long is because, I've sadly given up on it too. On its own it's just a toner with AHA & BHA that comes in a fancy packaging and novel idea but this product does not work alone. Yet together with the zero pore serum and having used it for more than 2 months, I've got to say that they both failed to live up to expectations. But sadly, no repeat purchase for this. 

So yeah... that pretty much sums up everything. Leave a comment if you want to find out more about the 3 products above. Otherwise.. Till next time!

GOODBYE 2018, HELLO 2019!

Happy 2019 to all! 

I know its already the 3rd week of 2019 but work has been a whole game of catch up ever since 2019 started. How was 2018 for you? Did you manage to acheive the goals you set out to achieve?

Personally, 2018 has been kind, blessed and nothing short of challenging.

I've travelled a little lesser than I hope for because of work,
I've felt more blessed than ever because of the lovely colleagues at work, and,
I've been stressed and challenged so much more because of work.

I'm pretty sure that by now you can tell... 2018, for me, has been mostly about work.

To be honest, I got caught in a (bad) situation where I was required to accept things as is. "Getting off work on time", "getting planned leave days" and "workout days" left me after the first half of 2017 and never came back in 2018. 

I could not clear my leave days because work beckons (tbh, even though I had plans before, I cancelled as I couldn't drop these projects because I felt responsible. Unlike *ahem*). I got sick so much even when I'm not someone that falls sick often. It sucks so bad cause usually when I do (fall sick), it's pretty hard to recover and it just takes a freaking long time. In fact, 2018 was hands-down the year with the highest medical leave record in my 6-year full time working history - a whooping 11/14 days of medical leave.

It was so tough and I got so bogged down that I sacrificed more "me" to adjust and juggle better.

The only times I get to travel, I travel for work. The good thing though, was that I got to meet more people but well, travelling for work is not all that glorious. In fact, it's mostly sad.

So starting 2019, I wanted to start it on the right foot. Getting off work (relatively) on time on the first day of work! Yet I clocked overtime till 8pm the very next day. And almost everyday the week after.

RAWR.

I NEED TO CHANGE THIS.

Here's hoping that 2019 would only get better! Gotta work harder and smarter to get more "me-time" and more "balanced" hardworking days! Will be following up with a review promised last year - medicube - by the end of this week. 

Till then~

Updated Skincare Routine *EDIT

People always say that your skin age faster when you hit 30 and it doesn't heal as fast anymore, it has lesser elasticity and you get more wrinkles. So most people start their skincare routines at 30. However, some (few) others believe that you should start to take care of your skin from 25 because "Prevention is better than cure". I am part of this few because I would think that if you start maintaining (preventing) your skin from the age of 25, you will be able to maintain good skin even after 30. Makes sense? I am a very logical person, so when I first read this random article about maintaining your skin, I was immediately convinced.

I started to fall in love with skin care few years back not just because I needed to "maintain" my skin at 25, but also because it is the easiest way to go. There is no need to wake up earlier and spend 30mins each morning to put on make up because you have great skin to flaunt. To be honest, I have very little knowledge about make up and I have yet to venture into that simply because I am very lazy and I think sleep is more important! Hahaha. For those of you that know me, you will know that I hardly put on any makeup. On rare occasions that I put on makeup, it will be SUPER DUPER SIMPLE: Foundation/ BB cream > Blush > Mascara. I think some of the make up lovers out there reading this must be rolling their eyes. But honestly, if you have great skin (besides those of you that require make up for work), would you still put on make up? It has always been a curious question of mine. 

I indulge in skincare so that I can sleep in a few more minutes in the morning. And mainly because I am pretty lazy to put on make up in the morning. I actually wrote about skincare a few years back (you can read them here), but have since changed some of the products as my skin changed and I thought to share them again here. 

*EDIT: I will be reordering them in the case of a night time routine so that it's easier to understand.

1, CLEANSE & 2, DOUBLE CLEANSE

After a long day at work, you need to shower to wash off all the dirt and you'll also need to wash your face. Never ever touch your face with dirty hands - this is how most breakouts happen. I always wash my hands with hand soap before cleaning my face. Start with a remover - not just for your make up, but also your sunscreen - and then follow up with a foam cleanser for a good double cleanse. I love the Banila Co Clean it Zero cleansing balm.

And follow up with a foam cleanser to deep cleanse your pores. I use the Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam. It is one of the deep pore cleaners that does not strip your skin. Remember to lather well before applying to your face so that there is less friction generated.

If you're just starting out your day, I suggest you start with a mild foam cleanser. I have been using Hada Labo's foam cleansers for the longest time but has recently found a new favorite, i.e., NeoGen, the Green Tea Foam Cleanser.

They actually have 4 different flavours/ scents - Green Tea, Cranberry, Blueberry and Cereal. So far, I have only tried the Green Tea and it smells wonderful. There are also real green tea leaves in the bottle as well. You know you are getting the real deal.

3, EXFOLIATE

I usually exfoliate twice a week - usually on Wednesday and Sundays. Healthy skin generally regenerate every 28 days or so depending on your age. So when you exfoliate, you are essentially trying to speed up the regeneration process by removing all the gunk and dead skin. Try not to exfoliate your skin too often as that will also be too harsh. I would say, if you have to, the maximum you can go for is to exfoliate every other day.

My personal all-time, hands down favourite is the NeoGen Wine Gauze Peeling because it not only works as a chemical and physical exfoliator, it also smells heavenly - therapeutic even. 

For those of you that are wondering what is the difference between chemical and physical exfoliators... Allow me to explain it simply: Chemical exfoliators make use of chemicals like AHA & BHA to exfoliate your skin, while physical exfoliators are generally rough or grainy in texture.

4, TONE

After washing your face, you need to ensure that your skin stays moisturized. Some of you might have read before that your skin loses moisture 3-5mins after leaving the shower. (I'm planning to share a post soon regarding moisture loss. Do keep a lookout!) So, to lock in the most moisture, always keep your toners in the bathroom. Before I use my toner, I am currently using the Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum to lock in the most moisture.

According to Innisfree, The Seed Serum actually preps your skin to hold moisture in your skin and prevents moisture loss so that your moisturizer would work its best. I will be sharing another tip to lock in moisture to your skin in the next few updates as well. Many tips coming up in the new year!

Anyway, follow up with your toner. 

You can use these on their own but I like to use a mix blend of the trio - Hada Labo Whitening Lotion, the Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioner and the Mario Badescu Rosewater Toner. I keep them in a spray bottle and spritz them on as and when I need. Again, I will share a "recipe" on how I mix these items in another update. Or else, this post will be never-ending.

So recently, I am hearing so much rave about the Medicube Zero-Pore series and I just have to give it a try as well. I'll be sharing a review on this series soon as I am still halfway through. 

5, ESSENCE/ AMPOULE

If you're able to lock in enough moisture from the start, this may sound redundant for you but it actually helps to restore moisture within the deep layers of your skin. I use the Innisfree Jeju Lava Seawater Essence both day and night because it is very lightweight. As I have oily-combination skin, I really hate to use products that make me "shine bright like a diamond". Anyway, this essence from Innisfree is not only lightweight for day and night use, it also has wrinkle free and anti-aging properties, which is very good for maintenance.

6, SHEET MASK

This is the main edit of this post - especially comparing with the one I did years ago. Previously I mentioned that you should mask at the last step, however, I realised I wasn't being clear - and possily misleading. Please note that whether masking should be the last step largely depends on what masks you are using. If you are using a sheet mask, please do it before you slather on your moisturizers. 

Why?
Essentially sheet masks are concentrated packs of essence/ ampoules that will help you penetrate deeper layers of your skin. To think of it logically, for them to penetrate layers of your skin, they are usually lightweight and fine... so, if you use a heavy cream before this, you will not be able to reap the entire benefit of your sheet mask! So, always use sheet masks before moisturizers!

7, EYE CREAM

Many of us are guilty about skipping the eyecare step because they are so small. But they are not to be ignored. One of the main reason is because, although the skin surrounding the eyes is very 'small', this skin is one of the softest skin on your face and is the first to show signs of aging. Keep it moisturised and keep it well taken care of. Most of the time I use the Innisfree Green Tea Seed Eye & Face Ball. 

But sometimes, I do follow up with Tarte Maracuja C-Brighter Treatment.

8, MOISTURISE/ SLEEPING MASK

Like my favourite cleansers, I also have morning and night moisturisers. Morning moisturisers tend to be more lightweight, while the night moisturisers are slightly creamier or heavier. In the morning, I recently discovered the La Roche Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturiser which as the name suggests, give you a matt finish. This is exceptionally important for oily-combination skin people that :shines bright like a diamond" - like me after lunch.

Anyway, in the night, I usually just go straight to sleeping masks as they are less comedogenic than most cream moisturizers. Like I mentioned earlier, I have oily-combination skin so my pores tend to clog easily and do not react well with creams. And it is always so difficult to find good gel type moisturisers! So I kind of gave up on moisturisers and went straight to the Sleeping Masks and often switch between the Innisfree Green Tea Sleeping Mask, and the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask.

If you want to know whether what you're currently using will clog your pores, Acne Mantra has an awesome online tool called Skingredients that helps you check if the ingredients are comedogenic almost instantly.

9, SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen is very important! I cannot stress how important it is - Freckles appear due to sun damage and when freckles appear, it is so difficult to get rid of them so DO NOT FORGET YOUR SUNSCREEN. Most sunscreens are comedogenic, so please make sure to cleanse your face with a make up remover. I am currently using the Innisfree Daily UV protection stick with Calamine Tone Up and sometimes, the La Roche Posay Anthelios Anti Glare UV Spray.

The Innisfree Daily UV Protection Stick with Calamine Tone up is not available in Innisfree stores in Singapore. If you want to get them, you'll need to order them from innisfreeworld directly. Or get some of your friends travelling to Korea to get it back for you. If none of your friends are travelling to Korea, try airfrov!

10, ACNECARE

I do my spot treatments for acne last mainly because I prefer using Tea Tree Essential Oil Blend than any other commercial acne care serums you may find out there. If you are using the standard over the counter acne care serums, you should apply this before your sheet mask - somewhere around step 5 or 6. But, if like me, you prefer to use essential oils, your skin will react better if you use it at the final step. A Tea Tree/ Spearmint blend can be very strong and drying for your skin when you apply it directly. You would not want it getting near your eyes as you spread out your moisturiser. So not only is it safer, it is also better to moisturize and prep you skin before you apply such drying oils.

After writing all these, I am starting to think that I am not that lazy after all. Hahaha. And, I'm starting to sound like an Innisfree/ NeoGen ambassador because I am using so many of their products. But honestly, they are really good - for the price and for the value you get. All these products are also easily available through Lazada/ Qoo10, Sephora and Innisfree!

I guess the number of products I get through on a daily basis has not decreased - compared with the post written a few years back. But with better at-home skincare tips, you don't need to spend so much money at the beautician - which we all know costs ALOT! So, this pretty much sums it all. If you have any skincare tips you would like to share, let me know! 

Just ranting

Just realised I haven't written anything since July. Here to rant a wee bit... about #comfortdelgro taxi fleet. Rather, this one taxi driver. An infuriating, frustrating and whatever you call pissed off experience!

Normally, from my home to work, I would take no more than 25mins at this time of travel. And when I say this, I actually went to check the previous trip history and none of them are more than 25mins. Yet, today's journey took almost 50mins all because the #comfortdelgro GPS from the MDT (as the driver called it) requested he bring me on a sight seeing journey around Singapore!!!

I called for a cab at approximately 0725hrs, waited around 8mins for the driver to arrive, only to have him drive past me because he followed his GPS and didn't know where I was. Called him, took a few minutes for him to properly locate me and started my journey at approximately 0735hrs today, only to have it end at 0822hrs. This is so bad because I WAS ALMOST LATE FOR WORK and the reason is no good reason at all because I catered an hour for travel.

First he took a left when he exited the carpark and went towards Boundary Road. I assumed, he was going to take the Braddell exit to CTE - saving me one ERP, but no, the GPS requested that he go straight towards Bendeemer. When I asked why he didn't take the right towards Braddell when he was at Upper Serangoon, his answer was simply, "GPS say this is the best way." Okay, so I trusted him and the #comfortdelgro GPS but the #comfortdelgro GPS actually led him past 3 ERP gantries, 10 over traffic lights, and took almost 50mins to end this trip! If this trip wasn't a flat fare, and if the ERP gates are activated, can you imagine how much I would have to pay for this ride? He didn't even tried to remember my destination because when his GPS started making weird noises at 0810hrs, he panicked! He had to restart his GPS, while asking me where I was going, and he even needed me to guide him on how to go because he is not sure with the roads. At one point, his car was swerving between lanes because he was so concentrated on keying in his ID and password to get his GPS working! This is unsafe, unprofessional and outright unbelievable!

On top of everything, I was actually checking google maps with real time traffic on the way. There were no reported accidents on CTE, everything looks blue and normal. Traffic was also smooth even on KPE/MCE. So, I really cannot understand why the #comfortdelgro GPS recommends that going through Potong Pasir, Bendeemer, Bugis, Chinatown, then Jalan Besar - leading me on a early Singapore Tour - is actually the better way to go! This is precisely the reason why Taxi Drivers always get complaints on taking the further route trying to charge passengers extra. Again, this would have happened to me if today wasn't a flat fare trip. I always cater an hour for travel in case of bad traffic but there is absolutely no bad traffic today. The only reason I was almost late to work is because of the #comfortdelgro lousy GPS directions and an inexperienced driver with almost zero knowledge on the roads in Singapore.

Here's hoping that #comfortdelgro will update and upgrade their GPS and make sure it leads the best way or it is as good as a white elephant. People usually choose cab over MRT/ Bus for a reason. For me, I usually get a cab or grab in the morning for added convenience so that I can arrive at my work place earlier without getting out of the house earlier. However, today's trip took much longer for me than when I would travel via MRT, gave me an additional heart attack because I was almost late for work, so I really question why I am paying 10times more than an MRT fare for convenience that I didn't get today.

Unplug before takeoff

"Personal headphones or earphones must be unplugged and not in use when the aircraft is taxiing, taking off and landing."

I travel often (as some may already know) on budget airlines and I always hear this on the flight announcement before take off. I bet for those of you that travel on budget airlines. You hear this alot too. Do you really follow and unplug? Or do you just ignore it until the flight attendant comes over to tap you on the shoulder (or better, misses you altogether)?

HAHA.

Here's the thing. Although I always hear it on budget airlines, like jetstar and scoot (my frequent budget go to airlines), I don't hear it when I fly full service flights like SQ or ANA. And on top of not hearing it, you get to keep their headphones or earphones connected to their in flight entertainment systems.

WHY?

I mean. I get it when they say

"Laptops may not be used and must be properly stowed when the aircraft is taking off, landing and on the ground". 

Logically, the laptop will sit on your tray table and you usually have them stowed for whatever's mentioned above. Should the take off or landing be bumpy, I would think that a laptop is a big enough device that may or may not result in some "injuries". Something simple like leaving an unfortunate bump on your forehead before your business meeting or a stamp of shame before your vacation starts that will show in every single photo you take? So yeah. I get it. No laptops.

But why no headphones or earphones?
I didn't understand the double standards (with full service flights).
So I began thinking about the differences.

Budget:

• You bring your own headphones/ earphones
• You connect to your device
• You are in your own world with zero interruptions 

Full service:

• You use their headphones/ earphones (Yes, I know you can use the connector and connect your own headphones/ earphones too)
• You connect to their in flight system
• Your movie gets interrupted every time there is an announcement.

THERE.
THE 3RD POINT.

When we're connected on our own devices, we would have zero interruptions. With loud music and maybe noise cancelling for some, we would not be able to hear any passenger announcements. When we're connected to the in-flight entertainment systems, they get to interrupt us whenever they want. Okay, to be honest. They're not so bad but it just irritates me sometimes that the multi language options takes such a long time and gave me too much of a break from my movie marathon. HAHA. Actually, I really don't know if this is the right reason. But it's something I can understand and live with. If by chance, any flight attendants are reading this, feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.

Side note. The flight crew today on Scoot TR276 were awesome and funny. "Ladies and Gentlemen, we are very very very pleased to announce at we've arrived 25mins ahead of schedule. Woohoo!"

Yes, he did that woohoo! HAHA
Ciaos~

Dear Singtel

I actually wrote this feedback to Singtel slightly more than a week back.

And according to the auto-reply I received, I was supposed to hear back from them in 3-5 working days yet no response till now. NADA! So, just sharing...

I am writing this after my "awesome" experience with your 1688 call-in.
I've tried on 3 occasions today, albeit with different numbers and they all got me on hold for more than 10mins, to which I gave up because work beckons.
At 1925, I finally got through after all that waiting to a rude operator, Bee.
(I got her service/ employee number as well and they were in the email to Singtel, but let's leave it out for this entry).

Frankly, I do think that she is just trying to do her job, following protocols, but I couldn't entirely agree. So here's the background.

Account Holder: My DadMobile Line User: My Mum (my dad has multiple lines)
1688 Caller: Me

On Friday last week (Hari Raya), my parents and I went to the nearest Singtel Exclusive Retailer to recontract both my mum's and my dad's line. Recontracted an iPhone 8plus for my dad and since my mum's phone is still working well, she had no intention to change. Yet we were told that we're no longer allowed to recontract a line without a phone and was told that, since the plan is due (24months) on 18-Jun, we should either come back again on Sunday, or to call in to 1688 to make the necessary changes. I hated calling in to 1688 because of the long waiting times, so on Sunday, I made sure to head down to the outlet again. However, after waiting for approximately 30mins or so, this other service personnel told us that we cannot downgrade the line to a SIM-only plan because the contract will only be up on 18th - which we were a day early. If we insist on doing so, we will have to pay a penalty of $40.

So, unfortunately, I was tasked by my dad to call in today - on the exact date of 18-Jun - to downgrade one of his mobile lines, used by my mum, to a SIM-only plan. As much as I hated it, I did it for my dad and Singtel Operators never fail to amaze me at how effective they are at testing my patience. When I finally got through to Bee, she mentioned that I wasn't allowed to make any changes. I explained that my dad works night shifts and that he is not with me, but I am able to provide all the necessary information. But no, she insisted that he has to be present during the call.
I'm really sorry, but which part of "he works nights" is unclear?

Then Bee explained that it's because of PDPA that she couldn't verify anything with me - even when I could provide all the information, she didn't want any.

This, I hatefully and honestly understand.

But what irritated me was that on one hand she refused confirmation due to PDPA, yet on the other, she requested for my NRIC.

As someone who is not a Singtel customer, how do I know if my information will be protected?

I refused and she insisted that if I refuse, there was nothing she could do.
Knowing that if I didn't budge, everything will be on a standstill so I gave in.
I'm truly ashamed to say that I showed some bad taste in my replies but this is really wearing on my patience. She requested and obtained my full name and NRIC, as well as my dad's number to call and verify while placing me on hold. So here's another thought...

If I bore any ill-intent, I could always provide a fake number with an accomplice to help, no?

So what is the PDPA that you actually uphold?
I do understand that she may just be following protocols. So I hope Singtel sees just how bad your protocols are.

If you have a set of rules, define them.

Educate your exclusive retailers properly so as to not waste each other's time.
My family and I took time to head down to the outlet on Sunday (again), and I specifically asked if there was going to be any issues if I was the caller.
The advise was "no problem, everything can be done over a phone call".
Yet the truth differs.

You updated your system yet it was imported with inaccurate data.
My dad's DOB became 01-Jan-1901. Seriously! Does it even make sense?!

As a consumer, I sincerely urge you to improve your customer service standards.
Porting telcos are easier by the minute and there is no reason to stay committed to Singtel. If such inconveniences and inefficiencies are not improved, there is absolutely no reason for consumers to stay loyal - aside from the contract period to avoid penalty. "Big company syndromes" don't last and without your consumers (and backing), I don't see how you're going to be able to survive the long years ahead even when you're the major market holder now.

I am so glad that I decided to switch my personal line to Starhub years ago.
They are so much more efficient! Whoohoo!

Although I couldn't care less whether Singtel replies me or not, I am still interested to know what they are going to reply. Haha. So, if I do get a reply... Will share it up too. If not, yeah well, you'll know that they're not bothered with one little customer like me...

KNO Hotel Review: Grand Swiss-Bel Hotel

Sometime in June last year, I trotted to the West Island of Indonesia, Sumatra – the city of Medan – with 2 of my friends to visit the world’s largest crater lake (Lake Toba). If you’re interested in reading up, click here. If not… About 8 months down the road, I went back to Medan again – this time for work, not leisure. The last time that I went to Medan, I didn't have time to visit the city centre. So, I was pretty excited to be back at the city centre.  However, reality failed to live up to my expectations. I’m not really sure what is the reason behind, but there seems to be a hidden slogan among the Medanese. I heard from my local colleagues, “Medanese are Loud and Proud”. Or something along these lines. And they are indeed loud. Everywhere in the city, you can hear cars honking at one another, getting irritated with one another for cutting lanes (as if that isn’t what you see in Indonesia everyday)…

I was really quite turn off by the way people handled traffic there. However, the people there were still pretty friendly. 

My main purpose there was for the preparation and the opening of Uniqlo’s first store in Medan City – the one and only at this point in time (2018). Yes, I went back twice and both times, I stayed at a nearby hotel. About a 5-10mins ride away (depending on the traffic).

Each time I checked into the hotel, there was a welcome drink. It tasted a lot like lemon grass cooked with a lot of sugar and water and steeped with ginger because the drink was rather ‘spicy’. According to the staff at the check-in counter, I was given an upgrade during my stay from February 22-23 but it didn’t really feel like an upgrade.

Besides the extra walkway space, since it was a corner room, it look similar as the images I saw online… Well, maybe for the additional sqm then.

But the second time I stayed there from March 14-16... Now this is what I call an upgrade! Hahaha.

I got upgraded to the business floor of the hotel, that comes with a bathtub! Awesome~! But the sad thing came, the bathtub was leaky. And I didn't know about it. So, after my bath, I found the flooded floor. Thankfully the bathroom door has a raised floor gap so the water doesn't flow out. Called housekeeping and they mentioned they will take a look the next morning but when I returned and bathed, it was still the same. Well, I had my bath, I felt good and I was already checking out the next day. So, frankly. I didn't bother anymore.

Random Lunch photo at the Mall

Aside from the leaky bathtub, my experience with Grand Swiss-Bel was rather decent. Then again, I’m pretty easy to satisfy I think. All I ask for is a clean bed with good pillows (preferably firm), clean towels, and a pair of indoor slippers. And if they would like to pamper me more, they can throw in a tub – which they did, albeit leaky! The only downside is that because this hotel is in the city centre, there is quite a lot of traffic even at night, and it can get a wee bit too noisy for comfort.

BKK Hotel Review: Siri Sathorn & Novotel Phloenchit

This came later than I expected. But here goes...

I don’t travel to Bangkok much for work. Early this year, I travelled twice to Bangkok for work. The first, I stayed at Siri Sathorn’s Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite from January 10-12, 2018 and the second, Novotel Bangkok Ploenchit Sukhumvit’s Superior Twin Room from February 27 - March 3.

The 1st – Siri Sathorn

This is a place that I will usually stay if my schedule is just around my office because it is only within 5mins walking distance to my office. They are literally on the same street (or “Soi” if you call streets the local Thai way). Breakfast here is rather decent, and the rooms are always huge. I think one of the reason is also because Siri Sathorn serves as an serviced apartment as well.

If I travel alone, I usually would go on a 2D1N or 3D2N work trip. Either way, I usually get back to the hotel really tired and I don’t really get to enjoy the space. For a small girl like me, tired, I just want to sleep properly. HAHA.

The 2nd - Novotel Bangkok Ploenchit Sukhumvit

This hotel is located quite near the city centre and also near to the BTS station. This makes heading out much easier – although Grab is also very convenient in Bangkok. I usually book my rooms via Agoda, so, prices may vary from time to time. 

Nonethless, I thought this hotel was value for money. It was in a good location, with clean rooms, and friendly staff. I didn't quite use the facilities though (as usual), but they do have a pool and good breakfast!

Wayyy Overdue Review - SPARKLE TEETH WHITENING KIT

The number of Ys does not do the reviews justice on just how late this is.

Remember I travelled alot in March? Well, maybe not. Cause I haven't been updating. *Guilty much* I will write and complete the hotel reviews soon. Definitely within this two months for them to be up. They have to, since this is my low period. HAHA. Or else. God knows when I can update them again.

Anyhow…At the end of my trip to Thailand in March, I had too much time to spare at the airport so I decided to just walk around and randomly stumbled upon a whitening kit in BOOTS.
Yes, I did a very brief review about another whitening kit before. If you're interested to read, click here. Although don't expect much because I really didn't like how that kit worked.

So yes. Below is the whitening kit that I randomly chanced upon at BOOTS pharmacy. It's called Sparkle Whitening Kit.

The kit comes with 5 things/ parts:

1, Whitening Gel
2, Mouth guard
3, Carry case - for the mouth guard
4, Shade chart - shade codes are printed in reverse so it reads right in a mirror
5, Instruction/ Additional information booklet - although, unless you're able to read Thai, is as good as useless

How does it work?

1, Apply the gel to the mouth guard,
2, Fit mouth guard into your mouth,
3, Bite down and hold for 20mins.

Just. This. Simple.
And! There is no hassle. No need to insert battery. No need to charge it at all since it’s a non-light whitening kit.
One of the reasons why I am tempted – Especially after being ‘burnt’ by the last LED whitening kit.

Does it do what it says?

YES! I could see my teeth whiter in just one session.

From A2/B2 to a shade of A1/B1

The photos are not very clear (Sorry!)

That said, there are always 2 sides to a coin. While it does prove effective, there are slight problems that come with it…
First, take a good look at the mouth guard.

Don't see anything wrong? What about now?

HAHAHA. VERY UNGLAM, I KNOW.

What I’m trying to say is that this mouth guard makes you bite down with your lips turned out.
Not only does it require a lot of jaw strength to keep it bitten down, you know what happens when you can’t close your mouth? YOU DROOL!
So unless you're gonna stand over your sink for the 20mins or carry a bucket for your drool, I think it might be a good idea to buy a separate mouth guard. HAHAHA.

I got mine from qoo10. It's about 5 SGD for a pair but it’s so much easier to just set the trays and go about doing whatever it is you want to. Definitely better than the original mouth guard. I can’t remember exactly how much the SPARKLE WHITENING KIT retails at boots but it is approximately 500THB.

There's this one more thing that I didn't quite like about the whitening kit. Notice how there are white spots?

It does fade off well after a few hours. So, if you're going out on a date, I wouldn't advise this treatment before. It would be better to do it the night before. HAHA. Taste of this whitening gel is just like regular toothpaste.

So overall, price, taste, effectiveness and given that it says what it does.

I would give it an awesome 4.5/ 5.

0.5 deducted for the white spots after treatment and the stupid drooling mouth guard. If any of you are interested, you can try your luck on Airfrov if there are travellers going to Thailand to purchase them for you with a small (additional) margin. Cheers!