Blackmores Natural Vitamin E Cream + Lanolin

I first tried Blackmores Natural Vitamin E Cream in April this year during a trip to Sydney. Since Blackmores is Australia’s leading natural health company, the best time to purchase it is while I’m at the originating country isn’t it! I got the vitamin E cream from the local drug store there to help my skin combat the dry climate.

Founded by visionary naturopath Maurice Blackmore in 1932, Blackmores combines traditional naturopathic expertise with scientific research to help people achieve optimal health and wellbeing. Committed to developing innovative natural health products and services of the highest quality, Blackmores reaches consumers in 17 countries. 

Also, Blackmores’ extensive range of vitamins, herbal and mineral supplements, and nutritional foods uses premium ingredients from around the world, with products made to strict Australian manufacturing standards. We all know how much pride Australians have in their local products, that’s because they know the quality and standards they are upholding.

Furthermore, respecting the innate link between healthy people and a healthy planet, Blackmores implements sustainable packaging and waste-reduction practices and supports charitable community initiatives.

Since Blackmores expanded into the skincare category, the Blackmores Natural Vitamin E Cream has been part of the Blackmores range for 40 years since it was launched in 1978. And now, there is an enhanced version which is Blackmores Natural Vitamin E Cream + Lanolin.

What’s Lanolin? Apparently it was highly popular ingredient I saw labelled on many Australian skincare products. 

Th product information provided is as follows:

With Natural lanolin derived from sheep wool

• Lanolin has similar function to our skin’s natural sebum

• It is purified secretion from sheep sebaceous glands and is found in sheep wool

• Both lanolin and sebum form a protective waterproof barrier on the skin to protect the skin and keep it from becoming dry, brittle and cracked by dehydration

• Fatty acids in lanolin give it penetrating emollient properties that reduces the evaporation of water from the deepest layers of the skin, maintaining soft and smooth skin

Other information:

• Rich and soothing moisturizing cream to protect and replenish the skin

• Contains natural Vitamin E, Avocado Oil and Apricot Kernel Oil

• Natural Vitamin E - Provides antioxidant protection to the skin’s cells from certain harmful compounds, whilst also having a skin conditioning effect

• Avocado Oil - Nourishes the skin and effectively protects it from the damage caused by dry climates

• Apricot Kernel Oil - Helps sustain and condition the skin for nourishing purposes

• The product has no artificial colours or fragrances. It is made in Australia, 100% imported

How to use it?

1. After cleansing, gently massage a small amount of cream evenly over skin

2. For best results, use twice daily

I had the problem of skin ‘rashes’ breaking out after each trip to a cold place in the recent year. This is despite the fact that I masked and applied moisturisers (even thick body lotion from the hotel for the first time it happened in China).

Even if the weather wasn’t exactly winter or that cold – i.e. Hong Kong in April or Melbourne in May – my cheeks will turn red and blotchy, and crack due to dehydration for days / weeks even after coming back to Singapore. 

This time round, I started using Blackmores Natural Vitamin E Cream as soon as I bought it in Sydney and my skin (finally) didn’t react for the entire trip. That’s how I know that this is the one product that really moisturises and replenishes dry skin!

Now, with added Lanolin, I’m pretty sure the protective barrier will work even more effectively in penetrating the deepest layers of the skin and prevents the evaporation of water. I only use the cream on alternate days (or days when I rem…) and have switched to the Lanolin version in the past week. It’s doing my skin well so far, and I’d certainly bring it along to my upcoming midnight volcano hike (zero degree celsius >.<) to share with my travel mates too! 

Blackmores Natural Vitamin E Cream + Lanolin is retailing for $19 in Singapore. 

Fortunately, now, you can get a chance to try out the product from Sample Store’s Sampling and By-Invite Sampling:

https://goo.gl/N322VW

xoxo

Bioderma Sensibo H2O review

When it comes to micellar waters, Bioderma Sensibio H2O is the ONE. The world’s first non-rinse cleansing solution using Micelle Technology, this derma-cosmetic hit was launched in 1995, and has been recommended by dermatologists, adored by makeup artists and loved by millions of people around the world since. Today, one bottle of Sensibio H2O is sold worldwide every three seconds – a fact testament to the extraordinary staying power of a cult hit that remains the cleanser of choice even as mass brands rush to jump on the bandwagon, hoping to emulate the success of the world’s first micellar water.

I used to be a faithful user of the makeup remover from a Japanese brand until I was introduced to Bioderma Sensibio H2O about 2 years back. Sensibio H2O works as efficiently as my then-favourite Jap brand makeup remover, and in addition, leaves my skin softer and more comfortable due to its unique restorative properties. It is also soap-, alcohol- and fragrance-free, plus non-rinsing, which is a great bonus for a lazy girl like me. In addition, Sensibio H2O is formulated with highly purified water – water that is completely free of impurities and irritants for pharmaceutical use. As the base ingredient, the superior grade of water used makes this cleanser ultra-gentle and a clear winner for sensitive skin.

Now, Bioderma is introducing two new additions to its Sensibio suite. 

 

The Sensibio Gel Moussant is a gentle foaming gel with lipid-restoring properties that hydrates and calms sensitive skin. I like how it feels like water on skin, see!

The packaging has a convenient pump function that can be locked so that it doesn't get messy when we bring it along while travelling or to the gym. Simply twist the cap to the right to close the pump, and twist to the left to open it.

The next addition is the Sensibio Dermatological Water: a face and body soothing spray made of highly purified water enhanced with an ideal balance of minerals that calms skin while maintaining healthy skin cells.

How it appears on skin: I like to spray a little on my arms and legs as well to cool the skin while I'm outdoors in the sun :)

All products in the Sensibio suite are available at Watsons, Guardian, Unity, Robinsons, Tan Tock

Seng Hospital and National Skin Centre. The general retail prices are as follows:

Sensibio H2O 250ml $28.90

Sensibio Gel Moussant 200ml $33.90

Sensibio Dermatological Water 125ml $5.90

You may find out more about Bioderma products at www.bioderma.sg.

***

Also, Bioderma has kindly offered a complimentary 3-day trial of the award-winning Sensibio H2O at the location of your choice! Simply click here to redeem yours today! :)

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Beauty Keeper - skincare review

Received some Beauty Keepers (pun intended) recently just in time for the lunar new year. Beauty Keeper originated from Taiwan and is a platform specially made for people to pick various highly-raved beauty brands and products all from one place.

Beauty Keeper offers premium items, but keep them at affordable pricing by getting products directly from the manufacturers.

Here are a few which I think are worth mentioning! :)

Left to right: MM/DA Jiao Pulsed Mask Foaming Face Cleanser; Aurelia Aurita Moisture JellyToner; Bravura Essence Mask

MM/DA Jiao Pulsed Mask Foaming Face Cleanser $52

I'm glad to be introduced to this acid-free and antibiotic-free skincare brand used by dermatologists for oily and sensitive skin. This cleanser serves to achieve maximum oil-water balancing during cleansing. Its exclusive formula that is filled with liposome via advanced technology absorbs oxygen and forms rich lather without any rubbing required! Meanwhile, it also delivers oxygen to our skin that way.

I applied a thin layer above my lips..

The cleanser absorbs oxygen and oxygenates the skin within a minute!

Aurelia Aurita Moisture JellyToner

Researched and produced by Evemed Medical Laboratory, the newest smart technology combines natural ingredients adding ultra-aquatic system to stimulate the skin for better absorption. The toner soothes and softens the skin, while flushing out the pores and minimizing their appearances. The Aurelia aurita collagen maintains a natural protective layer to lock in moisture, repairing dull and aging skin and regaining radiance and transparency.

Bravura Essence Mask

These masks aims to whiten and moisturize the skin - simply apply for 15 minutes to say goodbye to dark skin spots and say hello to bright and even-looking skin!

The refined wood pulp facial mask fits the face gently and almost perfectly. Infused with Arbutin and Tranexamic acid, this mask brightens the skin, promoting a porcelain skin tone.

Signing off to check out more interesting skincare on Beauty Keeper!

Beauty Base - bSoul facial & MTM back therapy

Went for bSoul facial and massage before a festive season previously and wow, the facial results turned out to be SO GOOD. If you hadn't knew about bSoul before, here is more details on one of their skincare kit.

bSoul facial is available at several salons, and I visited one at Clementi - Beauty Base. It's less than 5 mins walk from the station if you travel by mrt :)

The introduction to the products used were pretty straight-to-the-point, a manner which I’m personally fond of. No overpromises or fanciful claims that builds up your expectations only to give end results that is below mediocre, which happens at some salons. The therapist used pretty layman terms to explain the products with their usage and effects, which makes it easy for me to understand and absorb the information (especially while lying on the comfy bed and being only half awake).

My skin is pretty dehydrated these days due to the cold and dry air-conditioning in office and insufficient plain fluid consumption. Thus, the therapist recommended facial that can help to restore my skin’s moisture and pH level which in turn will brighten up my complexion. 

The range of products used for the facial.

To my amazement, there were no high-technology machines or 'fanciful' creams or serums used during the facial. It is a classic facial, without extractions, using the exact bSoul set shown above that can be purchased and used at home on our own! 

1) Thorough removal of my makeup

This took possibly thrice the amount of time I would spent removing makeup on my own. Must be really thorough :D ok, i'm 1/2 kidding.

2) Cleansing with my favourite bSoul 3 Activ scrub

Again, the therapist spent 2-3 times the effort than I usually do when I use the scrub. She reminded me that the scrub can be effective as a hydration mask too when used together with a serum. The granular beads from the scrub will break down into waxy state after few minutes of scrubbing and it will act to hydrate the skin like a mask. Hence, the 'scrub' was left on my skin while she proceeded to trim my eyebrows.

3) Mask

This was applied in conjuction with the facial massage.

Do note that the facial massage is rather heavy-handed as compared to any other facial massages i've done before. Not something that you will fall asleep with. But neither is it painful at all, hence no worries!

The massage skill of the therapist helps in getting the products absorbed more effectively into my skin as well as reduce any water retention, making my face feel lighter and refreshed, perhaps even more nimble in my expressions that evening.

Now I look forward to using my remaining bSoul scrub in a new manner at home!

There is a makeup room for girls to tidy up after a good sleep facial so that you can hang out shopping even right after a facial.

Of cos, please go and try the facial yourselves to experience the goodness of it. Would be great to pamper your skin and be ready to face the world in the upcoming (June holiday) travel season :)



(Beauty Base is 20 years old! Pretty established for a beauty salon!)

Other than bSoul facial, Beauty Base also offers MTM back therapy.

Prior to trying out MTM massage, I've already prepped myself for a painful experience as what Mia had shared. It's not meant to be the 'shiok' kind of massage, but a real, painful jabbing type. I was honestly looking forward to some beneficial jabbing to clear the knots in my shoulders, and lower back which I strained some time in Dec :(

Now, what exactly is MTM massage? This therapy is a new type of corrective massage, based on Traditional Chinese Medicinal (TCM) Philosophy and Modern Western Medical principal. This technique is aided by specialized handheld rod (read: buffalo horn), which goes beyond the conventional superficial skin and muscle levels. Check out the 'rods':



Each of our backs is like a main power switch that reflects the major organs and nerve systems of our bodies. Here's an overall view of the acupoints on our backs.

The treatment works by stimulating these meridian points in our body to work on the facial restrictions and scar tissues in the muscle. It can be performed in one session for a full body treatment, or it can be localized for specific target area such as face, and is designed to address stubborn problems such as chronic stiff shoulders or bloated face (depending on which area are you performing the treatment on).

Unfortunately, I'm soooo sensitive (read: ticklish) to any touches on my (mid) back that the massage could not be done full-out over that area. The therapist was able to carry out the acupressure treatment properly for my shoulders and neck regions though, helping with the relief of my stiff shoulders and that chronic pain. It wasn't as painful as expected - the massage on my neck, shoulder and lower back region were just that slightly uncomfortable during the session.

The massage therapist, however, warned me of subsequent aching muscles which I felt indeed the very next morning. It was far more sore than I've ever came across before, or have expected.

Thankfully, they gave me the tub of ageless herbal cream to help with the expected aches and I had it rubbed onto my shoulders immediately after I woke up. It soothed the aftermath aches considerably!

http://www.meditrina.com.sg/detail.php?ProductID=351

Overall, I find the MTM massage much more effective in curing my muscle stiffness than another other solutions I've tried so far. If you have problems which regular massages can't help, do give MTM massage a try!




BEAUTY BASE

Block 443 Clementi Avenue 3
#01-69 Singapore 120443

Operating hours:
Mon -Fri: 10.30am-8.30pm
Sat -Sun: 10.30am-6pm
P.Holiday closed.

Tel: 6872 2268
Fax: 6872 2268
E-mail: beauty.base@gmail.com

Bespoke Box Singapore - Review

It's been some time since I've gotten a beauty box. Cos I can never finish the products and samples in time before more new products come in the following month! :X They snowballed quite badly and I kinda stopped subscribing to the monthly boxes!

However, there's a monthly event which will never fail to come (and go)...and I'm sure all girls will understand. All those PMS weeks and hormonal changes that make us cranky and emotional, plus physical aches and pains to endure >.<

Now, how about a monthly kit to make this period (pun intended) more bearable? Moreover, there will be no worries about not finishing any items in the box before the next month ;) It is definitely some comfort and fun to look forward to!

I was happy to receive one from the Bespoke Box SG team in February!

What is Bespoke Box?

Bespoke Box is a premium subscription service created to help you manage the time of the month. A box of goodies will be delivered right to your doorstep a week before your period for you to enjoy. 

There are different subscription plans available – 3-months ($63), 6-months ($120), or get 15% off with a whole year plan ($228). 

There is also an one-time option ($22) to send as a gift to your friends. All prices are inclusive of free local shipping.

What’s in it?

The contents vary by month, but you may look forward to 5 items – pampering Bath and Body products, beauty products, snacks, feminine items or an art gift. All items are travel-sized or full-sized, so you can fully enjoy the products.

For the February box, we have included a Pocky snack, a Pretz snack, a specially handmade voodoo doll, a pack of Poise pantyliners, Sierra Bee’s honey lip balm and Crabtree & Evelyn hand cream. Total content worth at $37!

Check out the cute voodoo.. ;p

The crabtree & evelyn hand cream, and Sierra Bees' organic lip balm may not be that specific to our monthly woes, but hey, it's always good to treat yourself better! Furthermore, February is the month of love ♥

Snacking will never go wrong! Get your chocolate fix with the Pocky especially.

And some tea to go along?

Last but not least.. Liners to prep and keep yourself comfy :)

If you're interested already, here's a summary of how it works. 

Once payment is made, the Bespoke Box team will get in touch with you for your mailing particulars and preferred delivery date, to ensure your box reaches you before your period.

Sign up by 29th of the month to receive next month's box!

Use the discount code OYHZ20 for 20% off the 3-month, 6-month or 12-month plans. This code ends on 20 March 2016.

Hop over to Bespoke Box to view the past boxes!

I'm running a giveaway for a Bespoke Box on IG, see you there! :)

Nature’s Glory Dr. Bronner's Liquid Soap and Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Been diligently learning household chores and tips recently in hopes to maintain our new place properly in time to come! We're in midst of sourcing for ID/contractors who can understand what we want for a house, and importantly, be genuine and committed. Recommendations are welcome! :)

Was really glad to be invited to try Nature's Glory Dr Bronner's Castile Organic Liquid Soap which has 18 uses to it!

*Certified to USDA Organic Standards

(same strict standards used for Organic Foods)

1. Shave

2. Shampoo

3. Toothpaste

4. Soap Bath or Foot Bath

5. Deodorant

6. Denture Cleaner

7. Mouth Wash

8. Hands Cleanser

9. Body Massage

10. Laundry

11. Douche

12. Hot Towel Massage

13. Pets

14. Dishwashing

15. Toilet Wash

16. Fruits/Vegetables Wash

17. Pest Spray

18. No Rash Nappy Soap

For five generations, over 150 years, the Bronner family is known for their soapmaking excellence. Nothing brings the warmth and coziness of home and hearth into your shower like Dr. Bronner's range of heavenly-scented Castile Organic Liquid Soap. They are certified organic under the USDA National Organic Program, as well as certified Fair Trade. Packaged in 100% postconsumer recycled (PCR) plastic bottles, these soaps are renowned for their quality, versatility and eco-friendliness.

The purity of the source of these soaps grants each droplet its exceptional qualities. They contain a relatively large volume of therapeutic high quality grade essential oil (i.e., 20ml in 1litre) which is really value for money, as typically even a bottle of 10ml essential oil would already cost $20 to $30+. Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap is retailing at a reasonably good price of $18.90 for a 16oz. The soaps greatly enhance its penetration deep into the skin to unleash reservoirs of goodness for long-lasting care and love for our skin.

To being with, Dr Bronner’s Pure-Castile Almond Liquid Soap is unlike any other soap you have ever used. It is made of a combination of high quality, pure & organic extra virgin coconut, olive, jojoba & almond oils. 

Personally, I really love the scent of the citrus version. Can totally imagine using it for many things!

Nothing smells as fresh as the smell of organic citrus oils. The organic orange, lemon, and lime oils in Dr Bronner’s Pure-Castile Citrus Orange Liquid Soap stimulate the skin and invigorate the body, resulting in a truly refreshing shower experience. 

Since I'm on-my-way to be a "housewife", I started off with trying it as a dishwasher instead, heh heh. As stated on its website, Dr.Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soaps are valued for money – up to 4 X more concentrated than other brands of “liquid soaps”. With such a lovely scent, I would definitely repurchase this for ashing my clothing in future, or simply a relaxing foot bath next!

***

Now, while I'm on Dr Bronner's, I found out about another amazing organic product - the Fresh Pressed Virgin Coconut oil!

Dr Bronner’s Whole Kernel Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is expeller-pressed from fresh, carefully dried coconut kernels whose brown inner skins have been left on, resulting in a more aromatic, nuttier-tasting oil. Versatile and delicious, Whole Kernel Coconut Oil can be used for stir-frying, sauces, baking and body care, including hair and body moisturising, oil pulling, DIY toothpaste formulations, and more.

I have not used it as hair or body care yet because it smells TOO YUMMY, lol. Might feel weird for me to use something so delicious smelling on my skin/hair.

Was hesitating between using it on food as a try-out, or on my face as a quick moisturizing mask.

Decided to add it to my "cooking" eventually when the little sister requested for a late night noodles supper! Secretly added the coconut oil to the noodles soup and it turned out very well indeed! The noodles were more fragrant that she could detect that extra aroma in her supper even though she didn't know of the existence of Dr Bronner’s Whole Kernel Organic Virgin Coconut Oil in the house then.

Operation successful!

Dr. Bronner’s products are available at Nature’s Glory retail store or e-shop at www.natures-glory.com.

There's FREE DELIVERY for purchases S$150 & above.

Retail Store:

315 Outram Road #01-09

Tan Boon Liat Building

Singapore 169074

Tel: 6227 1318

Email: customerservice@natures-glory.com

V-Mina SG Feminine Hygiene Care - Feel the confidence!

As a lady, I know how important it is to keep our delicate regions clean and fresh, while maintaining it to be dry and healthy at an ideal pH level. It is not only for health-conscious individuals who appreciates a delicate care of their long-term well-being, it is also extremely beneficial to those who are prone to infections, and those who are have more active lifestyle, or those who need assistance to balance the state of the micro-flora level.

Here is a new brand-name that uses an advanced approach to total-balance feminine care – V-mina.

It promises to clean without irritation and improve the V-area to a healthy pH range of 3.8 to 4.2. On top on that, there is yoghurt extract to provide Lactobacilus Probiotics benefits to maintain good micro-flora balance and naturally eliminates bad micro-organisms.

There are no harsh surfactants, SLES, SLS or ALS in V-mina products. 

The benefits of V-Mina products are supported and proven by clinical tests done by independent research institution (read more about it here!)

V-Mina Cleansing Mousse

The mousse state makes the cleanser soft and gentle on the skin, while effective in maintaining the cleanliness of the V-area. As mentioned above for all V-Mina products, it improves good micro-flora balance and prevent growth of bad micro-organisms and improve the pH to an ideal range. This mousse is enriched with aloe vera that helps to soften and hydrate the V-area.

V-Mina Lightening Intimate Gel

The gel helps to improve the V-area to a fairer tone with scientifically proven natural extracts such as mulberry root, saxifrage grape and scutellaria root. And the same goes too for this, it maintains good micro-flora balance of the feminine region and prevent growth of bad micro-organisms and improve the pH to an ideal range.

V-Mina Cleansing Wipes

The feminine wipes come in convenient packs of 10s and are non-soap and non-irritant - suitable for daily usage or travels. It is also enriched with hyaluronic acid for the ‘youthfulness’ of the V-area.

V-Mina Deodorant Intimate Mist

Together with the wipes, this is bound to keep you fresh and clean even if you spend the entire day outdoor. The size of it is kept small and convenient for you to pop it into your bag for daily usage :)

V-Mina products are available on its website. 

Or, you may want to follow the facebook page for more frequent updates!