The "Go To" Sunscreen for your Face!

Clarins Sunscreen Multi-Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 40

(with Plant Extracts)

This is a face sunscreen and according to the Clarins, it is 100% mineral. It has Titanium Dioxide about 8.1% and Cantaloupe Melon extract for the antioxidant. I don't know how many percent they put in it but IT IS listed on the ingredients. Here's a background of the benefits of Cantaloupe Melon:

Cantaloupe melon was first presented as a gourmet delicacy in the 15th century. A treasure from the region of Provence in France, the cantaloupe melon extract chosen by Clarins Research is obtained from organic farming and contains an exceptional concentration of superoxide dismutase, an enzyme with antioxidant benefits that neutralizes the harmful effects of free radicals on skin.

My Opinion:

The title "broad spectrum" kind of caught my attention, because I want to ensure that all the sunscreens that I'm using protect my skin against both UVA and UVB. Although the title doesn't specifically state UVA and UVB protection, but I did a little research on the Skincancer.org.



http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/uva-and-uvb/understanding-uva-and-uvb

So, "Broad-Spectrum" also mean that it is UVA and UVB protected. I think it is very important to look for these words when you are shopping for a good sunscreen.

Anyways, I like this sunscreen more than the Shiseido sunsreen SPF 50 that I used to have, because the texture is very silky and sheer. It is also super light weight and doesn't even feel like I'm wearing sunscreen. As far as the fragrance, it doesn't mention that it's fragrance free but I don't really notice the fragrance that it has either. So it must have very little or no fragrance at all! The price is pretty fair as well, $40USD. I think this is a good sunscreen!

Rating 5/5

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored/advertised post!

The "best" Body Suncreen that You Need!

Clinique broad spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen with SolarSmart (UVA/UVB Protection)

The title immediately caught my attention as I was browsing through my local Sephora store for a good sunscreen, since it gets crazily hot here in Arizona. Some information that you might need to know when shopping for a good sunscreen.

SPF is generally a measure of protection against UVB rays, which is a primary cause of burning. However, UVB is only a small percentage of the spectrum. The more prevalent rays - UVA - are the aging rays that penetrate deeper into skin causing DNA damage.

As soon as I saw the title of this sunscreen, straight to the point "UVA and UVB protection,".... Great! I'm getting it! Another factor that you may want to pay attention to also, is whether a sunscreen is moisturizing enough for your skin. This sunscreen clearly stated "body cream" and it is super light on my skin, as the same time providing that moisture that I need along with the protection. The price is pretty reasonable, at $23USD - not bad, for a good 5 oz. sunscreen like this!

Another "plus" point that I like about this sunscreen is, it is 100% fragrance free (unlike the ones at Walgreens... urgh, yuck!)

What makes Clinique Sunscreen different than others?

• Oil-free
• PABA-free
• Non-acnegenic
• Appropriate for sensitive skins
• 100% fragrance free
• Both UVA and UVB Protection
• Also a Body Cream

Note that this is only for the BODY! I'd highly recommending this product.

Rating: 5/5


Disclaimer: This is not an advertised post!

Deep Clean Your Face with Facial Clay Mask!

It is so important to exfoliate your face once or twice a week. But exfoliating only clean the surface of the skin, making it appear to be smooth. Clay or Mud, on the other hand has the power to draw out any impurities off your skin, such as dirt, black heads, and pores that got trapped from beneath the surface of the skin. Wearing a clay or mud mask at least once a week or once every other week is just as important and crucial to your skin care regimen. It not only helps to clean your skin but also to prevent appearance of fine lines and wrinkles! Wow...

Here I'm wearing a Giotto Clay Facial Mask that has Olive in it, that's why it has a green color. I also have a Strawberry one that I am so eager to try on. I usually store all of my masks in a small refrigerator, so when I apply it can be nice and cool. Once when the mask is applied, I usually leave it on for about 20-30 minutes and then wash it off with warm water. Clay comes off easier if you wash it with warm water versus cold water. To feel a tighten effect, I would do a splash of cold water in the end, when all of the clay was already washed off.

*the after picture was not photoshopped*

What is Cold Cream & the Magic in Cleansing Face!

Have any of you heard of the term "cold cream" lately? It's been mentioned quite often around the media that it is one of the "old tricks" for beautiful skin. I did a bit of research and here is what I have found.

Jar of the cold cream from the first half of the 20th century

Cold cream has been around for about 100 years, started in 1857 to be exact. It was used as a cosmetic preparation used for cleansing and softening the skin at the same time. It is actually an emulsion made up of a mixture of water and certain fats, usually including beeswax. The purpose is to remove makeup, smooth and soften the skin ALL AT THE SAME TIME. The term "cold cream" is derived from the cooling sensation that it delivers and leaves on the skin.

While celebrities such as Kylie Minogue admitted that she had botox herself, but ever since then she swore that all she uses to keep the youthful looking and beautiful skin is the Pond's Cold Cream. She said that she has religiously using it everyday and that is all she does to take care of her skin. It is such an old classic that was introduced to her by her mother. Ever since she made this announcement, the company Unilever, the umbrella company of Pond's started seeing drastic change in their sales. Sales has increased by 120% and that stock has also gone up.

So...... I've gone to the drugstore and got one myself to test it out. Here is what I got:

Pond's Cold Cream Cleanser

The Pond's Cold Cream Cleanser is actually a moisturizing deep cleanser and makeup remover at the same time. Unlike any other cleansers, half of it comprises of moisturizer, which is 50%. It has Mineral Oil to remove makeup, dirt and even stubborn waterproof mascaras. It also has Beeswax to lock in moisturizer and preventing it from leaving the skin. It is suitable for sensitive skin and won't clog pores.

Ingredients:
Mineral oil, water/agua, ceresin, beeswax, triethanolamine, behenic acid, fragrance/fragancia, ceteth-20, cetyl alcohol, carbomer, dmdm hydantoin, idodopropynyl butylcarbamate, methylparaben.


Tina's Personal Experience:
I've been using this cold cream once a day, primarily at night for removing makeup and cleaning my face, for about 2 weeks now. I've had positive experience with it so far. There has been no irritation or rash occurred. I did see that my skin got brighter and definitely softer after washing my face with this product and on the following morning waking up.

This is how much I normally use every time washing my face at night to remove makeup. 

I don't use a cloth to wipe it like the instruction said. Instead I use it like it is a cleanser, gently rubbing it onto my face in circular motion and then wash it off with warm water. Your skin will actually feel like it is moisturized, that same feeling when you try washing off Vaseline.

Close-up of BEFORE pictures

and I had some eye makeup with waterproof mascara on, too.

                                Close-up of AFTER pictures

So what do you think?

I honestly think that this cold cream cleanser does a great job in removing all of my makeup, including the waterproof mascara that would normally requires me to use a separate eye makeup remover. You can see that it completely softens my skin after washing my face with it. I love it!

The only thing that worries me is the "methylparaben" listed on the ingredients list. Methylparaben is one of the parabens and is a preservative chemical formular. It is often found in several fruits, such as blueberries. There has a been a controversy between the use of methylparaben or propylparabens are harmful chemical used in cosmetics and body care. However, both of them are listed under Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for food and antibacterial preservation.  What freaks me out is that studies indicate that methylparaben when applied to skin may react to UVB and UVB is what leading to skin aging and DNA damage.

Rating: 4/5

Will you consider buying it again?   No. Because of the "methylparaben" listing in the ingredient. But if you really wanna try, you can get it at any drugstores for around $7 to $9 or buy on Amazon for little cheaper.


Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methylparaben

Laneige Water Sleeping Pack_EX - the best overnight mask!

The Laneige Water Sleeping Pack_EX is the new and improved version of the sleeping pack, which allows moisturization and brightening. This mask is said to be applied right before you go to sleep to maximize the efficiency of overnight water supply. The functions of skin is remarkably declined during night time, therefore skin can feel dry. This water sleeping mask deeply hydrates and penetrates the skin. It helps to keep skin clear and vitalized.

• It particularly has Hunza Apricot Extracts, which helps with skin brightening and purifying the skin.
• It also has Recoverine that is from chestnuts, which helps to promotes the turnover of dead cells for water supply and sleek skin texture.
• Essential oils: Orange flower, rose, sandalwood, ylang ylang.

It has a light gel texture that is non-sticky.
Use this once to twice a week and apply more than recommended, also works well with neck area.

Tina's Personal Experience:
I use this product maybe once a week or once every 2 weeks because I've gotten so many other masks to substitute for.  I store all my masks, including this one in a small refrigerator so when I do use it, it delivers such a cooling sensation. Especially with the abundant water base in this mask, I could feel it instantly tightened my skin. It is definitely light gel textured and very spreadable. You can either use more than you normally would or just enough. The result in the morning would still be the same. I wake up seeing my skin definitely looks clearer, lighter and looks like I've had plenty of sleep. It does literally make you look like you've just slept a good 8-hour sleep. I love the scent of it and actually take their advice into practice. As you open the cap, inhale the scent from the jar for about 2-3 seconds. It is so relaxing because of the ylang ylang. Love it! Now, after you spread it evenly all over your face, do tap it so that the mask has a better chance absorbing into your skin. You do not have to wash your face after putting this mask on, it meant to stay on your face overnight. :)

Rating: 5/5

 

Purederm Collagen Eye Zone Mask

These eye masks are said to be enriched with Collagen, Vitamin E, Green Tea extracts and Tropical Fruits. They provide extensive hydration, help restore moisture, and elasticity, which diminishes signs of aging. They also help to reduce eye puffiness and dark circles. Suitable for all types of skin.

 It is made in Korea from Adwin Korea Corp. and here's the website in both English and Korean: www.purederm.com

Below is a list of the ingredients. If you're an ingredients junkie, it might be helpful to do research about. One thing that I would warn you right now is that, although the website talks a lot about natural and healthy life, but some of the ingredients might not be. For example, PEG 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil that they have in this product. Too much of it might cause skin irritation and skin burn, but then it is a very common ingredient as an emulsifier in most facial cleansers, soaps, lotions, shampoos, etc.

 

Ingredients:
- Water (Aqua)
- Glycerin
- PEG/PPG-18/4 Copolumer
- Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
- Phyto Collagen
- Erythritol
- Xanthan Gum
- Hamamellis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract
- Tocopheryl Acetate
- Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract
- PEG 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
- PEG 60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
- Allantoin
- Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
-  PEG-14M
- Disodium EDTA
- Methlparaben
- Phenoxyethanol
- Fragrance (Parfum)

Tina's Verdict and Personal Experience:

I love these eye pads because they're so hydrating. I've already gone through my second pack and there has been no irritation or reactions to my skin. I usually store the whole pack in the refrigerator, so that the pads give off that cooling sensation when I put them on. Also, by doing this, you can keep them fresh and longer when you can't use them all up in just 2 weeks after the package is opened. These pads especially come in handy when you want to de-puff your eyes in the morning or just simply want a quick-fix solution. However, I didn't really see any results in reducing my under-eye fine lines or dark circles, but I'm gonna show you a super cool trick in using these eye pads!

Ever have super dry, cracked or chapped lips?? My advice is to use this on your lips the night before or for 15 - 20 minutes if you want to your lips to be smooth again. All you need in each use is just 1 pad. You'll see INSTANT dramatic result after using these and I swear by it because I have personally experienced it so many times. It must be the collagen in it to produces the plumped effect on your lips. I have never used or heard of lips masks, but these now have become mine. Absolutely love it!

And this is me... Happy eye masking... This is how I wear them on my lips :-)

I personally got it on Ebay for a pretty cheap price, around $4 - $5 for a pack of 30 sheets. Amazon also have them, but feel free to compare the prices. I've posted the link to Amazon as well here!

Rating: 3/5

L'Occitane Immortelle Divine Cream

The famous Divine cream is ranked #1 anti-aging cream in the 2011 Beauty Bible and Guerlain anti-aging cream is ranked #2. Compared to the Guerlain which is like $365, the Divine is at a more modest price of $98. This cream will fight any signs of aging, enhance radiance and skin tone, and provide supreme nourishment and immediate comfort to the skin. It also contour your face by lifting and redefining it. If there are any wrinkles, it will smooth out for visibly firmer, brighter and younger-looking.

Its main ingredients are the Immortelle and Myrtle essential oils are 100% organic. It also contains other plant oils, omega 3 and 6-fatty acids.

• The Immortelle essential oils are there to stimulate the production of collagen 6 times and improve skin micro-circulation by 2 times.
• The Myrtle essential oils helps stimulate the longevity protein and increase cellular vitality.

Shiseido Brightening Eye Treatment

This eye cream targets specifically dark circles, discoloration around the eye areas and poor micro-circulation. It contains Multi-Luminizing Powder with light diffusing properties to instantly bring luminosity to eye areas.

 **Ranked in my "Top 10 Best Eye Creams" list**

 

 Tina's Verdict & Personal Experience:

 I've used up the whole bottle before, while I was pregnant and that my dark circles and puffiness were really really bad. Early this year, I was given another sample tube of the Shiseido brightening eye treatment while picking up some other Shiseido products. And remembering how great the experience that I had with this eye-cream was during my pregnancy, I felt like it deserves a fair review.

Lancome Eau Fraiche Douceur

Lancome Eau Fraiche Douceur

Micellar Cleansing Water, Face, Eyes, Lips

Claims to have gentle Micellar Technology cleansing agents (which I have no idea what this is...) and soothing Rose de France. It lifts, removes makeup and impurities including waterproof mascara. Skin is toned, purified, cleaned, and soft after used. There's no need to rinse after use. It is dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. It is non-comedogenic and is suitable for sensitive skin.

Tina's Verdict & Personal Experience:

As you can see in the picture, it's more than half empty so I think I've used it long enough to give an honest review on this product.  Honestly, I'd always have to wash my face again with another cleanser after using this. It just doesn't seem to be as effective in cleaning/wiping away my makeup as it has advertised.

My Beauty Diary Masks

My Beauty Diary masks were among the first lines of masks that I've used in my early days. These come in different types and I have not yet tried all of them, but I've tried 3 different ones so far - the black pearl, red wine, and pearl powder, and I really like them. Below is description of each and my review:

  Black Pearl masks

It has natural active ingredients of black pearl, limes, pineapples, and cucumbers. The black pearl helps to soften and whiten skin, while limes, pineapples and cucumber will speed up metabolism of stratum comeum and remove dead cells on the epidermis layer. It is recommended for people who are lack of radiance and skin elasticity.

Tina's Verdict:

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

I've gotten the 2.5 oz (75 ml) which is the smallest size of the Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer and been using it for approximately 1 and a half month now. It is a day-time moisturizer and the great thing about this product is that it also comes with or without an SPF 15.

It is really for all skin types and also for people who want to restore moisture to their skin or need superb moisturization. It also helps to soften and condition without leaving residue of oiliness on skin. This product uses Squalane-based, which is a restorative botanical oil that helps keep the skin healthy, extra soft and supple.

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

The eye area is especially prone to wrinkling because the skin is thinnest there, causing it to be the first location on the face to show visible signs of fatigue or aging. Taking the right steps can help to slow or reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and that means consistent use of sunscreen and eye-cream. The Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado is one of the the Kiehl's classic antioxidant eye-area preparations.

Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Cleansing Foam W (Ingredients)

Shiseido 

White Lucent Brightening Cleansing Foam W

(Mousse Nettoyante Eclaircissante W)

The ultimate brightening soluton for even-tomed skin with perfect radiance.

A gentle purifying foam that effectively lifts away impurities while protecting skin's vital moisture. Refines skin texture to uncover beautiful clarity.

• Recommended for all skin types
• Formulated with Micro White Powder
• Dermatologist-Tested

Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Protective Emulsion (Ingredients)

Shiseido

White Lucent Brightening Protective Emulsion W  SPF 15 PA ++

(Lotion Equilibrante Eclaircissante Enrichie W)

The ultimate brightening solution for even-toned skin with perfect radiance.

A rich brightening daytime moisturizer developed with a focus on environmental stressors such as UV rays, air pollution and dryness to provide comprehensive protection. Formulated with Multi-Target Vitamin C, a brightening ingredient with anti-oxidant benefits to help protect skin from oxidative damage caused by pollution and UV rays.

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate
1.0 fl oz - 30 ml

- Fragrance Free
- For all Skin types

A concentrated, 100% natural blend of nourishing ingredients including Squalane, night blooming Evening Primrose and eight essential oils which work with skin's natural nocturnal activity to reestablish a fresher, more toned, and more radiant appearance by morning.

Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Balancing Softener Enriched W (Ingredients)

Shiseido

White Lucent Brightening Balancing Softener Enriched W

(Lotion Equilibrante Eclaircissante Enrichie W)

The ultimate brightening solution for even-toned skin with perfect radiance.

A rich brightening lotion that softens and immediately hydrates skin for an optimally refined, luminous complexion. Enhances the benefits of following skincare.

Shiseido Benefiance Concentrated Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream (review, product description & ingredients)

Shiseido Benefiance

Concentrated Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream

(Crème Concentrée Anti-Rides Yeux)

15 ml - .51 oz

Targeting the causes of skin dehydration and signs of fatigue, this comprehensive collection works in synergy with the skin's own natural rhythms to help defend against signs of premature aging and provide unprecedented skincare benefits. Skin is awakened to its fullest potential and infused with a surge of new beauty.

Shiseido Bio-Performance Advanced Super Revitalizing Cream (review, product descriptions & ingredients)

Shiseido Bio-Performance 

Advanced Super Revitalizing Cream

Retexturizing / Moisturizing

(Crème Super Revitalisante Absolue)

(Lissante / Hydratante)

50 ml - 1.7 oz.

The Ultimate Strategy Against Premature Aging
The latest discovery by Shiseido scientists brings a new time-fighting solution forward, and with it, a new approach to giving age-resistance skin at the micro-level. The technology targets the tiny triangular facets that connect to form skin's surface texture. Just as the facets of a beautifully cut diamond determine its brilliance, the facets of the skin determine its texture and youthful vividness. When each triangular facet is plumped and resilient, skin appears more vibrant and signs of premature aging are less noticeable. Skin with well-articulated facets is smoother, more supple, and more forgiving of fine lines and wrinkles. Advanced Super Revilizing Cream increases the quality of skin's facets, optimizes skin's texture, and creates the foundation for a more youthful appearance.

C&F Collagen mask Review

C&F Intensive Mask Sheet Pack

Collagen is a natural protein called fibrous protein found in animals and connective tissues of mammals. Collagen and its structure all serve the same purpose - to help skin tissues withstand stretching. Though as interesting as it sounds, I'm not going to go into details about all the particles and chemistry that make up collagen. Instead, in this post I'd like to introduce you to this wonderful mask, the Collagen mask from the C&F Cosmetic company.