Crème Simon – French Heritage Skincare

Meet my new skincare routine.

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Earlier in May, we collaborated with Crème Simon to host a lunch event at Absinthe. After only reading about the brand since it was introduced in Singapore, I finally got to try it for myself.

I think I may have found my Holy Grail.

I have been using the entire range (almost) religiously, day and night, for two weeks and I must say I am beginning to see a difference. My skin feels healthier, softer, younger, and calmer. What a treat for my 30 year-old self! (I just turned 30 last Thursday) I hope I can pass off as a 20 something year old for many many more years to come! :P

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In the morning, after washing I use the Dermo-Hydrating Toner Mist, followed by the Dermo-Activ Floral Serum, Oxygenating Light Day Moisturiser and lastly, the Daily Defense UV Protector SPF 50. The Oxygenating Moisturiser leaves your skin with a cool, bubbling feeling!

Come night time, I use the Dermo-Hydrating Toner Mist, followed by the Dermo-Activ Floral Serum and end with the Restorative Light Night Moisturiser. I’m currently using the sample size tube of the night moisturiser, but I’ll definitely need to get my hands on the full sized one at some point! And perhaps the Oxygenating Foaming Cleanser, eye roller and make up remover while I’m at it.

Exfoliating is a twice weekly affair for me, and on exfoliating days I use a mix of the Gentle Double Exfoliation Scrub and the Lymphatic Contouring and Lifting Gel.

These were on display at the event. So vintage, so quirky!

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The girls fell in love with my handmade Camelias that I showed them during their site visit, and they ended up ordering Camelia brooches to give out during the media launch of the first permanent counter at Raffles City!

Congrats to the Crème Simon Singapore team!

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 Thank you for being an absolute joy to work with!

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Looking forward very much to seeing this girls again sometime soon!

Use the code “AWARD15” to enjoy 15% off your purchase of the Toner Mist, Night Moisturiser and Crème Universelle today!

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xx

Sponsored Review : Switch To The New Essential

The first time I tried and reviewed Essential’s hair products was 4 years ago in October. Back then the orange range was named “Rich Premier”, and the pink range was named “Nuance Airy”. Ring a bell? You can read that review >> here.

5. New Essential Variant Introduction

What if I told you that Essential has come up with a solution for those of you who have “combination hair”? If you actually understand what I mean by combination hair, you should be rejoicing right about…NOW. If you don’t and have no idea if you do in fact have combination hair, well, just like how some of us have combination skin (which is extremely common), the same goes for hair, in this case you would have an oily scalp and roots, coupled with dry ends. Using products for oily hair to keep that oily scalp under control would dry your ends even more; whereas using products for dry hair to care for dry ends would do your oily scalp no good whatsoever.

So how exactly have you been washing your hair? Alternating between two different products? Or accepting your fate and living with either an oily scalp or dry ends?

I don’t know about you, but for me the priority has been keeping oil levels under control. I absolutely cannot stand that icky feeling halfway through the day when my hair starts to look and feel greasy, dry shampoos have helped but used long term, those really manage to rack up quite a bill. But what else could I do? There was nothing in the market that was made for combination hair, until now.

This October, Essential relaunched it’s hair products with brand new packaging, improved formulas and a new variant for those with combination hair.

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I received the above products best suited for my hair’s needs after answering two simple questions as seen in the table below.

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If you would like to use a more extensive range of hair care, this would be a guide based on the same two questions.

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With 4 different variants catering to varying hair needs, you can be sure that there is something for your hair type.

  1. Nourishing Breakage Defense (orange) – For weak & damaged hair
  2. Moisturizing Frizz-Free (pink) – For dull & rough hair
  3. Light Finish Volumizing (yellow) – For flat and limp hair
  4. Deep Cleansing Care (blue) – For oily scalp & dry ends

New Essential has Microfine All Smooth Essence which delivers nutrients to repair damaged hair surface from root to tip, whereas conventional technology concentrates mainly at the roots only.

The Light Finish Volumizing (yellow) and Deep Cleansing Care (blue) variants have the optimum combination of Smart Cuticle Care & Sebum Cleansing Technology to target both problems of roots and hair ends. As a result, you will experience the best of both worlds with one product – airy light roots and moisturized ends.

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After using the products for about two weeks, I have noticed that my scalp doesn’t get oily as quickly, which means I can get away with not washing my hair in the morning if I did the night before. My hair is significantly more manageable with no tangles and less frizzy ends after using the hair mask, my only grouse is the 10 minute waiting time to enjoy the full benefits of the product which would last up to 7 days. On days I feel my hair could use a little more love than just shampoo, I use the conditioner or treatment that doesn’t require a wait time of 3-10 minutes. In fact, the treatment works in a matter of 30 seconds!

My hair also dries relatively quicker, this allows me to hit the sack as soon as possible after a late night since I am not a fan of blow drying my hair. I must say I particularly love the fragrance of the Light Finish Volumnizing shampoo, it would be great if the whole range smells the same!

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“Like” Essential on Facebook and redeem your FREE SAMPLE!
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You can also follow @essentialsingapore on Instagram

 The range is affordably priced at $4.50 for a 200ml bottle of shampoo or conditioner and $11.50 for a 750ml bottle of shampoo or conditioner. Hair masks are priced at $9.90 a tub. This price is the same for all variants and is available at leading supermarkets, hypermarkets, western pharmacies and personal care stores like Watson’s and Guardian Pharmacy.

Sponsored Review : Bioré Micellar Cleansing Water

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Is it possible for one product to remove make up, soothe, brighten, soften and disinfect your skin while minimising pores all at once? Sounds impossible right? But that is exactly what Bioré’s New Micellar Cleansing Water claims to do.

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The Watery Micellar Technology effectively dissolves and lifts of all makeup including mascara and eyeliner and Natural Mineral Water from the Northern Japanese Alps provide for a gentle and soothing formula. The cleanser is enriched with Collagen and White Tea Extract to give you brighter, softer and suppler skin while the anti-bacterial formula helps prevent pimples and breakouts, and minimises pores for a clearer and more refined complexion.

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But does it really do what it claims to?

I have sensitive skin and after using this for over a week, I have had no problems with the cleanser, even without rinsing off since this is a no-rinse cleanser. The only challenge is getting all the mascara fibres out. It takes way over 5 seconds of holding the cotton pad over my eyes to remove my mascara but that is pretty much the only tiny draw back. I would choose this over my current facial wipes because this does not sting if I happen to get it in my eyes and when I remove my mascara with the pre-soaked facial wipes, it stings every single time!

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So how well does it remove a pile of make up?

I piled on BB cream, eye shadow, blusher, the works.. To use,

• Pump an appropriate amount onto cotton pad
• Use soaked cotton pad to gently wipe off makeup
• For eye makeup, place soaked cotton pad onto closed eyes and hold for 5 seconds before gently wiping it off
• Repeat until all makeup is removed, and cotton pad is clean

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And this is the difference after a couple of wipes. To totally remove all make up, you’d need about 4-5 cotton pads depending on how much make up you use.

It leaves no oily or sticky feeling at all, but it does leave skin feeling clean, refreshed and hydrated. As I mentioned, rinsing is not required so this is a perfect product for those of you who get lazy with removing make up after a long night out. I personally prefer to wash with my foaming cleanser afterwards for a more thorough clean and to make sure I have nothing “foreign” left on my face. Just make sure you follow through with toner and moisturiser to avoid drying out your skin!

Would I buy this? Definitely yes.20141009_121108

Bioré Micellar Cleansing Water retails at $18.90 and is available in all pharmacies, hypermarkets and supermarkets, and major departmental stores.

#ONLINESHOPPINGHACKS – iPrice

Online shopping has become increasingly popular over the years, but while it does offer the convenience of shopping from the comforts of home, there are some things that can be extremely frustrating; and I do mean EXTREMELY FRUSTRATING. One of the woes of online shopping? The coupons.

Scenario 1. You have added a whole list of items to your wish list and you are ready to check out once you receive the next coupon code but somehow you’re just not getting one no matter how often you check your email. You realise some of the items you want are quickly dwindling in stock but you could really use a discount. Like, NOW.

Scenario 2. You finally managed to check out your order with that 20% off discount code. The next day you see something else from the same online store that you missed seeing before, or it is a new addition. You have already utilised your coupon and it is not valid for a second use, but you really need (by need I mean want) that dress!

Sounds familiar?

Fortunately, I have found the one and probably only #onlineshoppinghack you will ever need.

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Introducing iPrice, Asia’s best source for discount, coupon and voucher codes. At iPrice, you will find the best online shopping deals and discount coupons from various online stores ranging from clothes to groceries to flights, in one place! Think big names like Zalora, Zuji, Qoo10, Red Mart, Luxola and many more!

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You don’t need to be subscribed to a particular store’s mailing list to get the coupons, iPrice tracks down the latest deals for you so you never miss a good sale again! Make use of discount codes or enjoy special weekly deals.

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You can also search for the best deals on a particular product you already have your eyes on when you shop by brand on iPrice. iPrice takes you to the online store offering the product that you want.

Get Melissa shoes for less!

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Here’s an extra #onlineshoppinghack! River Island may have closed it’s retail stores in Singapore, but you can still get your River Island fix on Zalora! Make sure you make use of your iPrice coupons to get the best deal!

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Start collecting your free coupons here: http://iprice.sg/coupons

Got nothing particular in mind but itching for some retail therapy? Check out iPrice’s roundup of the best products around! http://iprice.sg/shop

You are most welcome. :)

Sponsored Review : Neutrogena Deep Clean Foaming Wash

When I was invited to review two of Neutrogena’s new Deep Clean Foaming Washes, I had to think twice. I have been avoiding new facial products lately after months of facial skin dryness, redness, itching and outbreaks, but I decided to read up on Neutrogena’s brand history before I completely struck it off.

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Neutrogena is the #1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand, and offers some of the world’s most loved beauty and skin care lines with products being marketed in over 70 countries world wide. With over 60 years of experience in skin care, it is no wonder that Neutrogena is a much trusted brand. With much faith that Neutrogena’s products are safe for my sensitive skin, I decided to give it a go!

This week, Neutrogena introduced two new additions to it’s “Deep Clean” range of products.

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The Deep Clean Hydrating Foaming Cleanser and Deep Clean Brightening Foaming Cleanser.

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The Hydrating Foaming Cleanser provides effective cleaning (99% impurity removal) and hydration that leaves the face looking clean and supple.  This happens because of use of special water mineral complex. Water mineral complex consists of the combination of Copper Gluconate; Magnesium Aspartate; Zinc Gluconate and Water all of which are known to improve skin hydration.

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The Brightening Foaming Cleanser provides effective cleaning (99% impurity removal) that leaves the face looking clean and bright. This happens because of the use of mulberry extract and a whitening vitamin complex. Whitening complex in this context consists of AA2G (Ascorbyl Glucoside) & Mulberry Extract – Ascorbyl Glucoside that helps inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, responsible for melanin production. Mulberries are known to contain Ascorbic Acid and Niacin. Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) is a tyrosinase inhibitor that is known to brighten skin. Niacin (Vitamin B) is known to inhibit melansome transfer and also brighten skin.

I’ve been using the cleansers for a couple of days, alternating between the Brightening and Hydrating Cleansers morning and night.  My skin usually reacts adversely to whitening or brightening products in general, but not with this. So far there has been no sign of redness, irritation or dryness whatsoever.

(Yipppeeeeee!)

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Now don’t be mistaken by the term “foaming cleanser”. It’s not the light fluffy marshmallow-like foam you would get from a pump bottle, but rather a rich, thick and creamy lather that feels absolutely luxurious! After washing off the cleanser, my face feels squeaky clean but not in the least uncomfortable, tight or dry. A little goes a long way with this cleanser, all you need is a small pea-sized dollop and you’ll get a good amount of foam, it’s almost like having a cream mask on!

So which cleanser do I like more?

I don’t think I’ve used them both long enough to make a favourable decision, they both have their benefits which is why I have been alternating them. In the morning, the hydrating cleanser gives my skin a moisture boost, a very welcome start especially if you spend all night in an air-conditioned room. The fresh scent also somewhat awakens your senses! Another thing that makes this great as a morning cleanser is it’s oil-controlling properties. Who wouldn’t want to have clean, fresh skin all day? Your makeup will stay put for longer too.

The brightening cleanser makes a good night cleanser as it removes all the dirt, excess oil and skin dulling residue from makeup, sun block and BB cream, leaving your skin fair and radiant. Compared to the hydrating cleanser, this one has a more fruity, sweet scent. The scents of both can be a little overpowering if you’re not a fan of scented cleansers, but it’s pretty okay once you get used to it. I’ll definitely continue using them to see if I can notice an obvious difference.

I’m happy to have found a sensitive skin friendly brand!

The cleansers retail at $11.50 and are available at Guardian, Watsons, NTUC, leading pharmacies and supermarkets.

Click here and “LIKE” Neutrogena on Facebook for future updates and product information:10411407_761651840546124_639984482901218893_n

Sponsored Review : Hada Labo 3-in-1 Arbutin Whitening Perfect Gel Moisturiser

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Hada Labo launches the NEW 3-in-1 Arbutin Whitening Perfect Gel for fair, bright and bouncy skin! Fast absorbing and non-oily in texture, this whitening gel boosts 3-in-1 skincare product benefits of Essence + Moisturiser + Paper Mask!

If you want to get the most out of your skin care and save time while you’re at it, Hada Labo’s new 3-in-1 Whitening Perfect Gel Moisturiser will do just that!

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Remember my review on Hada Labo’s Whitening Arbutin Lotion? Just like the lotion, the gel also contains 3 key ingredients.

Natural Arbutin contains a high concentration levels at 3% of Japanese pharmaceutical-level Arbutin to offer effective whitening results. This enhances skin fairness and targets dark spots.

Vitamin C is a proven anti-oxidant that enhances collagen production, inhibits the appearance of dark spots and reawakens the appearance of dull skin.

Hyaluronic acid is a natural component found on skin. The duo of Hyaluronic acid and nano hyaluronic acid molecules instantly hydrate and lock-in moisture, keeping skin soft, smooth & bouncy.

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(Spatula is not included)

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I have been using Hada Labo lotions daily (currently Hada Labo’s ES Lotion for Sensitive Skin) in my skincare regime followed by my own cream moisturisers, so I was really excited when this product was launched. As its name suggests, the Perfect Gel is what it is, a gel. Unlike cream moisturisers, this being in gel form is more readily absorbed into the skin and of a much lighter texture as well. This saves time since you don’t need to wait long for your moisturiser to be fully absorbed before you can apply make up to avoid that cakey effect.

Upon application, the gel becomes more fluid.

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It creates a cool and refreshing feeling on the skin, you can see and feel the instant hydration. It absorbs very quickly and leaves no oily film on your skin.

It is recommended that you apply the gel after applying lotion, but I sometimes skip the lotion and apply this after my SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. On days when I feel like my skin could use that bit more hydrating, I apply a little more of the gel at night before bed and use it as a sleeping mask for dehydrated skin. This is a great gel to use under make up. Some moisturisers don’t allow make up to sit well on the skin, resulting in your make up caking or just sliding off, but with this gel, I get perfectly hydrated skin that’s ready for foundation or BB creams.

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Hada Labo 3-in-1 Whitening Perfect Gel retails at $38.90 for an 80g jar and is available at Watsons, Guardian, Robinsons, BHG, NTUC, OG, Sasa and Unity.

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Want to win a jar of this Perfect Gel for yourself?

Like Hada Labo Singapore on Facebook and look out for the “Hada Labo 3-in-1 Arbutin Whitening Perfect Gel Snow Princess game” which could win you a jar of this Perfect Gel. Meanwhile, The Sample Store is conducting an Instagram contest!
Simply redeem a sample of Hada Labo’s Arbutin Whitening Lotion from The Sample Store and post a photo of yourself with the sample on Instagram with a short review and include the following @ and # tags :

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Good luck! :)

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And…. Since each Sample Store checkout allows you to redeem a total of 4 samples, I’ve included links to 3 other Hada Labo products you can try! :)
 Hada Labo SHA Hydrating Wash
 Hada Labo SHA Hydrating Milk
 Hada Labo Cleansing Oil

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Don’t have a Sample Store account yet? Just click on this link to sign up and you’ll be all set to start sampling!
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Sponsored Review : Goodskin Labs Firm-365 Serum

With just months to go before I inevitably turn 29, I’m beginning to take anti-ageing skincare a little more seriously. I was half excited half skeptical (and afraid to be honest) to try GoodSkin Labs’ New FIRM-365 Facial Firming Serum with V-Technology, simply because the last time I reviewed a lifting product that claimed to produce  “V-face” results, my skin was completely wrecked. It left me with patchy, red and scaly skin, which ultimately led to my skin being ultra sensitive for weeks after! I swore to stay away from products that were too “potent”, or any other product that promised drastic results; I knew my skin just wouldn’t be able to handle it.

After doing some “homework” and reading up on GoodSkin Labs and with the assurance that their products are fragrance-free, I decided to go for it and crossed my fingers that I would finally find something my skin would thank me for!

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As our skin ages, it loses elasticity and firmness causing facial features to sag and lose definition. FIRM-365 tackles these signs of aging and delivers instant and long-term results that you can see and feel. The heavyweight product helps promote skin’s natural elastin and collagen production to visibly repair skin’s appearance for firmer, more sculpted and radiant-looking skin over time.

When I received GoodSkin Labs’ FIRM-365 Serum from The Sample Store, the first thing I did was to apply a small amount of it on the back of my hand and left it for a few hours to see if I had an adverse reaction to it, I did the same the next day. After that I felt more confident and applied to my neck and lower jaw area and followed with my moisturiser and went to bed. I woke up happy to see my neck showed no signs of irritation whatsoever and I knew I was ready to apply it to my entire face!

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Unlike most serums that are typically liquids that come in glass dropper bottles, this one has a cream/gel like consistency that makes application a breeze, it doesn’t “sting” your skin like some serums do, especially if they contain Vitamin C. The serum has a natural, somewhat herbal scent and the when I dispensed it, I was intrigued by the tiny gold specks in it! It looks quite similar to a face primer but with tons more benefits! I love how it comes in a convenient pump tube, not only is it less messy, it also keeps the product free from contamination. I must say the packaging really appeals to me, GoodSkin Labs‘ products have always caught my eye, I just never got down to trying them but I am so glad I finally did. It’s like finding a new BFF!

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The serum is very easily absorbed into the skin, and leaves no sticky or greasy feeling whatsoever. The blend of pearls leaves skin instantly radiant, like a primer would. The glucosamine gently sloughs away dead skin cells to reveal smoother skin and I find this has helped significantly with some dry areas.

 Instant radiance? Check! √

Apart from a radiance cocktail blend of pearls, the serum also contains CME, which is a Vitamin C & E complex that helps support skin’s natural collagen production to help visibly lift and firm skin. Photo activated enzymes help support collagen and elastin so skin appears firmer and more youthful while Argirelin supports natural collagen production to help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and firm the look of skin. Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin and Trehalose work together to help skin absorb water and  retain moisture, instantly hydrating skin for a plumped look and hydration you can feel!

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I’ve only used the serum for about a week, so I can’t really vouch for the firming and lifting effects just yet, but I have a very good feeling about this one, it’s definitely working on my skin already! I hope that it will help improve my post acne marks as well.

Thank you GoodSkin Labs for a product that works even on sensitive skin. Turning 29 seems a little bit less daunting knowing it’s not a dead end for my skin!

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GoodSkin Labs FIRM-365 Facial Firming Serum (50ml) is available for $68 exclusively at all SaSa stores!

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EXCLUSIVE PROMOTION!

Get GoodSkin Lab’s Eyliplex-2 at $49 instead of $68 when you purchase the FIRM-365 Serum! Tempting indeed, I do struggle with panda eyes…

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Think you can strike a good “V” pose?

5 very lucky girls will win a $200 hamper filled with awesome products from GoodSkin Labs and $200 worth of SaSa gift certificates!
I want to win too! (Who wouldn’t?)

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Here’s how! :

  1. Like SaSa SG on Facebook.
  2. Strike a “V” pose like the model below and take a photo.
  3. Post on SaSa SG’s Facebook page and hope you win!

Contest ends 9th of February 2014 so get your “V”s on!

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PS: No worries if you don’t win this time around, you will be entitled to a FREE sample redemption at any SaSa outlet just for taking part! :)
You can also redeem a free sample tube of the FIRM-365 Serum from The Sample Store, but make sure you have a Sample Store account first!

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Sponsored Review : Mygenlife Bustful Nectar

With the New Year just a day away, most of us are probably scrambling to pen those new year’s resolutions and goals. If your goals include detoxing, slimming down, achieving better skin or keeping your bust perky, Mygenlife might just be what you need! Thanks to Mygenlife’s team of professors and dermatologists, medical-grade products are now available on pharmacy shelves!

There are 5 different “Nectars” in Mygenlife’s range of drinks and I was sent the “Bustful Nectar” for review!

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Before I get into the review of the Bustful Nectar, here’s a quick look at the other four nectars! I’d personally love to try them, with the exception of the slimming one of course, don’t think I have any extra weight I need to lose. I’ll definitely be checking out reviews of the other nectars by fellow Sample Store bloggers!

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We all know by now how important Collagen is in keeping us looking and feeling youthful, but if we could get our much needed daily dose of Collagen and keep our reproductive system healthy at the same time, why not?

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The Bustful Nectar contains 4 main ingredients:

Collagen Peptide renders elasticity to the breasts, nourishes the ligaments to boost the bust line.
Pueraria Mirifica, also known as กวาวเครือ Kwao Krua is a great source of classical phytoestrogens that supports development of your bust.
Green Papaya Juice has a rare enzyme that supports and simulates breast glands which is beneficial to your bust line.
Wild Yam contains phytonutrients that supports the stimulation of breast growth. In addition, it is beneficial to women’s reproductive health.

Combined with other ingredients like Blueberry juice, Black Jujube juice, and other root extracts, this is one bottle of natural goodness to boot! So what exactly does a “concoction” of Kwao Krua, Green Papaya, Wild Yam, Blueberries and Black Jujube taste like? Like a fruit juice of course! It actually taste quite similar to prune juice with a slightly bitter aftertaste, it didn’t bother me very much though!

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With all that goodness packed into one tiny bottle, it is convenient to pop one into your bag each morning to take to work. The dark colored glass bottles keep out UV light and protect the integrity of its contents. Being a DIY junkie, I’ll definitely be keeping these glass bottles around for other uses instead of throwing them out!

Priced at slightly over $8 per bottle, the price is definitely a consideration point and results are said to show within 4 weeks with the other nectars so it’s really hard to say after a week whether it worked or not. For $200 a month, if something safe and natural that works from the inside out can produce visible results, I think it is worth a shot. After all, it sure beats spending thousands on invasive aesthetic treatments later on that are only address the surface problem. Like I always say, prevention is better than cure so take care of your skin and body while you’re young!

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Each box of Mygenlife’s Nectars contain 6 (50ml) bottles and retails at $49.90, available at Guardian Pharmacies and online from Hannah Holdings.

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This range of products are also available to sample from The Sample Store! Don’t have an account yet?

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Sponsored Review : Itoh Collagen Powder

Collagen is all the rage these days and comes in various different forms to suit each individual’s preferences and needs. Sourced from pig’s skin, fish scales, oils, and placenta just to name a few, if you are looking to start supplementing with collagen, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

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Endorsed by Kevin, Taiwan’s beauty guru of Lady First, Itoh Collagen Powder is a colorless, tasteless, fat and sugar-free low molecular collagen powder that dissolves easily in liquids. The low molecular collagen molecules ensures easier and more rapid absorption of collagen into the skin.

Why is Collagen so crucial for our skin?

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From the age of 25, our collagen levels begin to decrease rapidly. If our skin does not get the necessary amount of collagen it needs, our skin starts to show signs of ageing; think sagging skin and wrinkles, all the things that make you go “eewwww”. As they say, prevention is better than cure, so it’s best to start giving your skin what it needs now rather than investing in anti-ageing creams when it’s too late. After all, beauty and youth are best maintained from the inside out.

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Itoh Collagen Powder is extracted from healthy pigskin and cartilage and is tested by Japan SPF standards. Fat and gelatin are removed through high purification technology, leaving the powder safe and tasteless. Each sachet contains 3000mg of Collagen, satisfying your daily collagen intake requirement.20131227_155048

The handy sachets are small and convenient to carry around in a purse if you choose to have your collagen on the go!

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Is Itoh Collagen Powder really tasteless?

The fact that it is extracted from pig’s skin may have some of you questioning if this might smell “porky”, but it does not. I personally prefer dissolving a sachet either in my tea or in a bowl of soup. If you do drink this with tea, it will make your tea turn murky like a milk tea. If that bothers you (consciously knowing something else is in your tea) then I would suggest adding it to a cream soup or juice and you won’t even remember adding something to it.

Results are said to show in 1-2 weeks, depending on the individual. I guess I’ll need to continue with these to see results since I have only consumed a couple of sachets so far. If you are looking for a collagen supplement that is tasteless and easy to consume, this is definitely worth a try! Please note that this product is not suitable for vegetarians and Muslims.

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Priced at $49.90 for a box of 14 sachets, Itoh Collagen Powder is available at Guardian Pharmacies in Singapore or online from Hannah Holdings.

You can sample this product before you decide to buy,

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Sponsored Review : NIVEA’s New In-Shower Skin Conditioner

Love moisturised skin but can’t commit to your moisturiser? You’ll love NIVEA’S New In-Shower Skin Conditioner! It’s the first ever rinse off body lotion that lets you moisturise in the shower, and is available in two variants for normal and dry skin.

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When I was invited to review NIVEA’s New In-Shower Skin Conditioner, I was reminded of my love-hate relationship with moisturisers in general. So, before I start raving about this new product from NIVEA, here’s some history…….

It’s a vicious cycle, really. When I find that my skin is getting too dry and it’s either flaking or causing me to itch at night, I feel the sudden and urgent need to moisturise. So I either go rummaging for something I already have or I use it as an excuse to get that new moisturiser I saw in store that smelt like heaven. I try to moisturise diligently for a week and when I feel that my skin isn’t dry anymore, I get lazy and it gets chucked aside. The next time I feel the need to moisturise, I would have forgotten about the stuff I already have or, by that time my excuse to go buy a new moisturiser would be that the previous one has been kept for too long or I didn’t like it. (I mean come on, when there’s something new we always find reasons to try it even though we don’t really NEED it, right?)

REPEAT THE CYCLE.

This is what you’ll end up with if you have the same problem as I do.

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(Trust me, there’s more where these came from.)

But really, I have a bad habit of buying moisturisers just because they smell absolutely awesome.  I know how important it is to moisturise all the time, and not just when my skin shows me it’s dehydrated but I just can’t seem to commit to moisturisers! :(

WHY?

To be honest I’d put it down to the lazy bones. Slapping on moisturiser after a shower just seems to be too much of an extra thing to do and having to apply moisturiser and let it dry before getting dressed just doesn’t seem very appealing especially if you are in a hurry to leave the house. Most moisturisers take a bit of time to be fully absorbed, and some just feel greasy or leave a layer on your skin giving you that waxy feeling that just doesn’t go away.

Back to why I’m completely sold on NIVEA’s new “Skin Conditioners”…. I am more than happy to say that my skin has never felt this soft in a long time, and I’ve never been so eager to use a body lotion, mainly because it is so much more convenient compared to conventional moisturisers, and it smells good too!

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There are many incentives as to why I love this soooo much! Here’s my quick list.

  1. Full body moisturisation. Something I wouldn’t do with a normal moisturiser cause really, would you bother to put lotion on your entire body (back, shoulders, bum) if your knees were the only obvious parts that needed moisturising? Unlikely.
  2. Gives me more reason to use a hair conditioner! You know how instructions always tell you to apply to hair and leave on for 3-5 minutes for best results? You find yourself standing awkwardly in the shower, tapping your toes waiting for the time to pass, but hey! Now I can moisturise my entire body while my hair conditioner is working its magic and step out of the shower feeling amazing. WIN-WIN!
  3. Convenient and effective. Not only does it smell GREAT, it also leaves my skin feeling oh so soft and smooth, and I don’t have to wait for it to dry before getting dressed. No sticky feeling after too!

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Apply to freshly cleansed skin.

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The water activated formula practically “melts” into your skin!

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Rinse, and towel dry. No signs of greasiness whatsoever but skin is thoroughly moisturised!

Technically, it doesn’t exactly cut out the moisturising step, but somehow makes moisturising something I want to do more so than something I need to do, and motivation is always a good thing!

The NIVEA In-Shower Skin Conditioner range comprises NIVEA In-Shower Skin Conditioner, formulated for normal skin and NIVEA In-Shower Skin Conditioner (Intensive) for dry skin, 250ml each and retails for S$7.90 at all Watsons, Guardian pharmacies, NTUC Fairprice, Cold Storage and GIANT outlets.

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