Ginvera Nutri White Marvel Gel

I finally got to try the Ginvera Nutri White Marvel Gel. I've previously reviewed the Green Tea one, which I felt was not that impressive.

Ginvera Nutri White Marvel Gel

Available: Watsons, Guardian

Volume:

Star Properties: Just 30 gentle rubs

I will cut this short, because basically, the packaging, texture, effect etc are all the same as the Green Tea one.

The only difference is that the Nutri White does not smells unpleasant! There is just a mild, almost non-detectable fragrance. =)

Just for completeness, below are the snapshots of me using the Nutri White Marvel Gel on the lower area of my hand. Can see that there is no difference after one use, same as the Green Tea one.

Nutri White on my hand.

No difference.

I love this: 4 hearts.
I am all for enzymatic peels/exfoliators, and against scrubs. Peelers are okay, but not scrubs. However, I think the Nuteen Blackhead Away Gel is still the best. And perhaps Cure Aqua. But Cure is really expensive.

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Nature Republic Argan Nutrizer Mask

It's yet another Korean skincare shop in the malls - Nature Republic.

Nature Republic's spokesperson, and I think founder, is Korean star, Rain. And it seems to be all for using natural and skin friendly ingredients.

So far, there are only two outlets in Singapore, the first one opened at Bishan Junction 8, and the second at 313@Somerset.

I came to know about it from a magazine, wherein the Overnight Sleeping Mask was advertised. I am currently on the lookout for any sleeping mask that might offer a challenge to Laneige's Water Sleeping Pack. So when I saw Nature Republic's affordable price, I decided to check out the shop.

I did not buy the sleeping mask as it has to be used within a few months of manufacture, like many of the natural products out there. I know I can't, because I am not even close to finishing up Laneige.

However, I did pick up a couple of other things, and the Argan Nutrizer Mask was a free gift. So there will be many more reviews on items from Nature Republic. =))

I am doing this first, because the SA said it's the new packaging, with Rain's face on it. haha. The way to gals' hearts... ...

Nature Republic Argan Nutrizer Mask

Available: Nature Republic Outlets

Volume: 1 sheet of mask

Star Properties: Combining state-of-the-art technology and natural substances of the utmost quality.

Argan Nutrizer Mask Sheet, with Rain's face as the packing!

Packaging
Packaging is definitely good. But it seems that they have not gotten down to translating all the Korean yet, because there isn't English on any of the items I purchased.

I do remember that the sunscreen lotion has the ingredients list in English though. So it might be worth checking out.

PS: For those who like Rain, the paper bag used to contain my items has his face printed full size on it too!

Fragrance
There isn't much smell, which I am fine with. Just the lightest tinge of extremely mild fragrance.

Mask Sheet
Apart from Etude House O2 Mask Sheet that I previously reviewed, I think Nature Republic's is another one that suits my face really well!

Seems like the Korean brands are making better face-shaped sheets than Taiwanese brands like My Beauty Diary.

The very fitting mask sheet.

Essence
I think the essence from this is just nice. Although it is true that we get more value if there are more essence, but I personally prefer masks that give just enough. Comparatively, Etude House's O2 mask was so loaded with essence that the sheet droops off my face if I do not lie down.

For Nature Republic's I only had a single palmful of essence left to apply a single layer on my face after masking.

Results
It is good at moisturizing, brightening and softening, I feel. But not firming and smoothening.

As a rough guideline, and in terms of general comfort after masking, I do like Etude House's better than this Argan Nutrizer Mask. But since one is for softening, one is for firming, I guess I can't really compare them.

I love it: 3.7 hearts.
This did not make me go wow, like Etude House's did. Probably more worth it if you like Rain and want to collect the packet. haha.

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Sephora Nail Polish in Gothic

I have previously reviewed the Sephora Nail Polish here. And I mentioned that I got 3 of their colours because it is just too pretty. Here is the 2nd one - in Gothic.

Basically, the quality is about the same. But for this, I managed to get the bottle colour after the first coating. So I think it really depends on which colour you buy. Probably the brighter ones like the Turquoise I did previously, will appear much more translucent and require 2 coats.

In the pics, I still did 2 coating, just to get a smoother finish.

Sephora Nail Polish in Gothic. Picture taken under less exposure. Appears much blacker.

Gothic, taken under a bit more exposure. Appears greyish metallic black.

I think greyish metallic black is so pretty, and goes well with many clothe colours. Previously, my SO commented that the turquoise really didn't match a bright yellow top I was wearing.

And if I were to carry a orange brown clutch, it clashes badly too.

With Gothic, which is very much like black and white, I can pull of all the cold and/or bright colours, like baby pink, electric blue, grass green. I could even do hot pink! And yellow is not a problem.

I started hunting for this colour since I saw a stone-washed grey on Mediacorp's Artiste Zoe Tay's hands. haha. Looked really lovely.

Sephora Gothic is not as stone washed, because it is shiny rather than matte like what Zoe wore. But I still love it!

Yup, last but not least, same reminder here: prepare to wait long with nothing big to do if you paint Sephora. Should really paint a top coat after the 2nd layer has dried overnight/24hours. Sephora chips real easily.

Signing off, Jyoan. =)

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Sasa Super Dolly - Powerful Curling Mascara

Sasa Super Dolly - Powerful Curling Mascara

Sasa Super Dolly - Powerful Curling Mascara

Available: All Sasa outlets $21.90 (I bought at $16.90 with the $5 voucher given for every $30 spent.)

Volume: -

Star Properties: Excellent curling, superior volumizing, long wear and waterproof.

Instructions on how to wear the mascara, and about the special comb brush.

Ingredients and such.

Packaging
I like the flowers in pink and purple on the black tube so much. Pink and black probably the best colour combination that exists, in my opinion. Gold on white is nice too.


Tube
The tube is rather short as well. Longer than Canmake Gokubuto, but definitely one of the smaller ones compared to L'oreal and Maybelline. Like I said of Gokubuto, short tubes/wands makes it a lot easier to brush my lashes without staining my nose bridge. And gives better precise control too.

Brush
The brush is a comb brush. I personally like comb brush more than bristles, become of the natural neatness and less tendency to clump my lashes. Unless the bristles are super short and ultra fine like Gokubuto...

The comb. Notice the slightly angled end for easier application on corner lashes.

Moreover, comb brush allows much better application of mascara to the lower lashes (I learned this from a Taiwan makeup show). Simply hold the comb vertical to your eyes, and swipe a few times across the lower lashes, instead of using the comb horizontal and full length like how you do the upper ones.

**Asians are not advised to apply mascara on lower lashes though, as we tend to have scarce lashes. Applying mascara will only emphasize that we do not have enough lower lashes.

Non-Clump
This is definitely non-clump. I have never used a comb mascara that clumps anyway. hahaha. It doesn't dumps mascara on my lashes too.

Curling
SUPER GOOD! Even without prior manual curling, this mascara actually curls and holds up my lashes about 90 degrees to my eyes! None of the other mascaras I've used can do this.

That goes to say that with curling, this is simply amazing! It's so curled I can always see my own lashes nowadays.

Lengthening
Definitely there. Like described, I can see my lashes with just one application.

Volumizing
It is just wonderful how a single coating of Super Dolly can achieve the doll-eyes effect as promised, curl, lengthen, and then volumize my lashes so well, the single layer can match the effect I get from Maybelline Intense XXL double-sided + Maybelline Unstoppable, then Gokubuto!

This is a really big +++ point, because it saves me so much time. I keep wanting to finish using my Maybellines (left very very little already), but every time I am rushing for time, I just pick up the Super Dolly, and there goes! I even feel okay to skip the curling step.

It has found its way into my makeup pouch, and now on my HG list. So going to repurchase once this is gone.

The big difference, imo - longer, curled, and more volume! Equivalent to wearing my 4 coats of other mascaras.

Non-smudge
This new formula of Sasa's mascara is waterproof. Be careful to pick the new one not their older version if you intend to buy it.

I love it: 6/5 hearts.
haha, so happy with it that I feel like giving it more than full marks.

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The Ultimate Foot Saviour - Gel Insoles + Beijing Episode

Finally back to another Beijing Episode after quite a long break. Just like to share something that has been part of my daily routine since I returned from Beijing - Gel Inserts!!!

I haven't tried the Scholl full length one that is shown below. I just bought it cos there is a shoe that I just can't wear comfortably, and Scholl happened to be giving away free Canmake Nail Polish. :PPP

Scholl Party Feet Full Length Gel Inserts + Gift with Purchase, Canmake Nail Polish, and gel inserts that I bought in China (Chinese brand).

The point to take home here is that if you have any shoes that you just don't feel comfortable wearing, don't chuck them aside! Use gel inserts. They are really wonderful and saved my life in Beijing, where I need to walk long hours everyday.

China shoes are kind of weird. All of them have really hard soles. Really hard. All my peers were complaining about the China bought boots making their feet pain. I was lucky to drop by Watsons and found the cheap cheap and good Chinese brand gel inserts.

They are rubber, so can be removed and washed and inserted into every shoe every time you go out. I even insert them onto my plastic/glass slippers. Can't be seen at all since it's transparent, and I am stepping on it.

I like the way it can be washed. A lot more hygienic.

I've tried tonnes of other inserts, especially those plaster ones. They just don't work. Peel off really fast. And wear and tear down really fast too. Very expensive to insert one into every shoe and very expensive to maintain.

Next time your feet hurts, just go for gel inserts. They come in so many shapes and sizes, just like the plaster counterparts. =)

Cheers to all women, that we don't need to walk around with hurting feet ever again! (At least not so often and hurts less. haha)

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Finding a Proper Makeup Pouch

I found it really such a coincidence that I intend to blog about the same thing as Tine from Beautyholics Anonymous in her post, "Rootote Pouches – A Definite Aye!"

haha, but it didn't come earlier... ... Such a pity cos I just bought a new and proper makeup pouch from Etude House.

Blooming Basic Pouch @$15.90 by Etude House

Back of the pouch with all the lovely images.

I just love the design of this pouch, because it has all the cutesey Etude House design cosmetic bottles, mascaras, powder puff and whatnot.

In addition, there is the tissue paper slot on the front, so I can always have tissue around when I am doing my makeup. Very thoughtful of the Koreans.

The inside, with all the required slots.

I have been looking for a pouch with compartments for some time already, but it seems the trend now that all pouch come in plain cases, and cheaply.

Honestly, I do find this a bit expensive, but it's the only compartmentalized pouch I've seen so far, besides the ultra girlish design. So I just bought it. Love the pockets.

Kind of like the Rootote one featured on Beautyholics Anonymous, but with no zipper mesh pocket. Also, the Rootote pouch's outer compartment is just a pocket, while Etude House's is the tissue holder.

Blooming Basic Pouch with my stuf inside.

I like the way the compartments are made or 1 set of makeup, and 1 set only. Cos with my previous pouches, I never fail to overload them every time I buy new cosmetics. Kind of just dumping everything inside. hahaha.

With this, I am forced to bring out only 1 of each, such as 1 blush, 1 eyeshadow paletter, 1 lipstick and 1 lipbalm etc. This is good to reduce the weight of my tote, and load on my shoulders. (Can seriously get painful with a whole day of lugging around more than 4 kg.)

Both the Rootote pouches and this comes two zips, which is really useful! Cos it can be opened the way I did in the picture - half-opened, and standing, so that the contents will not fall out.

I mangaged to find enough slots to put my tiny bottle of makeup remover and highlighter/shadow too.

haha, but I like Rootote too, especially this one:

AV Pouch - Stockpile (picture courtesy of Rootote).

With this design, I think I will be thinking of food all the time! lol. But it's really sweet.

Going off for lunch. Have a good day everyone!

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Into Victoria's Secret

A week after Victoria's Secret has opened at Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore, the first in Asia, I found the time to make a special visit to it. =)

I have not been to Sentosa for about a year, and I found out along the way that many systems have changed. There are no longer entrance cards, just a receipt to Sentosa, and therefore, the monorail gantries are all wide-opened, since there are no cards to scan.

Entrance

The entire length of the shop. It's actually pretty small.

First thing on my right is the lingerie section.

The left side of the shop are some casual wear.

At the back are the lipsticks/lipglosses and body care besides.

I almost bought the lipglosses. $13. But the colour collection is quite normal.

Managed to do the swatches under their eyes. LOL. They are really open about taking pics actually. The entire Resorts World is filled with photographer for now.

The accessories display.

I intended to buy the passport holder but when I got there, it seems really normal. So I dropped it. I picked up one of the key chains, more of a wrist-let cum key chain, and a cloth bag that says "Pink Love". =)

Victoria's Secret closing.

It closes at 7pm now. So do be early if you want to have more time for photos and browsing. I had to quickly pick up those that I had in mind. I didn't get to really look at the perfumes and bath stuff.

Honestly, as reporters say in the newspapers, VS Singapore is really not worth going, at least not now. Unless you want to get instant gratification from their pink. The signature items are not there, and the shop is just too stunningly small.

Staff are not really helpful. But they are friendly, and approachable. =)

PS: I will upload some nice pics of the Resorts World and Sentosa probably in another post. =)

Update: Moi loots

Pink paper bag, pink wrapping paper for the bag, and the pink wristlet key chain!

Love Pink VS cloth bag. Very useful as it's super duper big. Bigger than my Levi's recycle bag.

Surprise pocket inside.

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LOTD - Comfortable for Lab

Had to dress as such today because I had lab session. The rule has changed such that no skirt is allowed. Covered shoes has always been a must.

Full body shot.

I wore a loose fitting top with Aladdin trousers and flats, so I can move around more easily in the lab.

Plus, Aladdin trousers are really good for pear-shaped people like me, because of the oh-so-forgiving cutting. I think it would fit even if I grew 2 sizes larger. Can wear for very long = worthwhile! haha.

My top.

I like the way it has the turquoise showing in the middle, and that round "button", cos this gives dimension to an otherwise flat black top.

Black is not my favourite colour, and I only wear it, in fact I have lots of black, only for convenience and ease of matching. So I tend to buy patterned black. I don't like plain colours too, because I feel that the money is not worth it. If I had to buy a plain plain plain polo tee or something, I would only be willing to pay $5, not the usual $10+ at pushcarts, or $30 at shopping malls. LOL. I think I can sound really stingy at times. But I believe some things are worth the price, others are not.

My flats.

I only have one ballet flats, as I am more of a heels person. I always replace it when I have to throw the old one though, cos I believe that we should all have a pair of flats for days when our feet are just too tired. Or for just plain walking and standing long hours, like today, in the lab.

Flats are really bad for walking actually. You will need some sort of soft base for better comfort.

I like the checkered design of this one, and the shiny belt top. =)

Next up, my trip to ViCtOrIa'S SeCrEt!!! Excitementz. haha.

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Palgantong Makeup Theatrical Powder - dodo Japan in Original Beige

I really don't know what to say about this loose powder (LP).

Recently, I found out that my face looks very sun-kissed and a different shade from my neck, after applying my HG Silkygirl's Shine-free LP. Does anyone knows why??? I am really at a lost, because I still have quite a lot of it left, I love it, and I don't wish to let it go to waste just like that.

My guess is that it has expired and oxidized after 1 year, cos I take forever to finish makeup due to low usage. Either this, or my efforts in sunblocking has really paid off, and I've grown whiter after a year! (Which I find hard to believe.)

But in any case, after reading an article from Viva Woman some time back, I figured that I have to change my LP no matter what, rather than walk around with different coloured face and neck.

So there it is, FINALLY down to Palgantong - the highly raved celebrity favourite loose powder, as introduced by Andy Lee here.

I was dying to use it, as I got mine off ebay at a mere $7 before it came to Sasa in Singapore. Now, I just want to throw it away. Read on to understand why I say so.

Palgantong Makeup Theatrical Powder - dodo Japan in Original Beige

Available: Sasa ~$16

Volume: 10g (comes in various sizes)

Star Properties: -

The 10g tub, opened fully to show powder, dispenser, sponge and screw cap.

Packaging
It comes in a screw cap tub, which you may find troublesome to unscrew every time you want to use it. But if you've stuffed your non-screw tub in a huge, squeezy check-in luggage, like I did to my Silkygirl, you will thank Palgantong for using better plastic and making the screw cap!

LOL. Cos my Silkygirl cover cracked when I came back from Beijing. And now, it is slightly dangerous to carry it out, cos I don't know when the cap will fall off and all the powder sprinkle over my belongings! :PPP Probably must tie it with a rubber band.

10g tub Size
It's a blessing in disguise for me that I bought the smallest size by accident. Imagine it to be as big as Silkygirl's, then what if you don't like it? Such a horrible waste.

Always get the smallest size to try if you are not sure if you are going to like the product, no matter how many good reviews you've read!

Sponge
But because of the small tub size, my sponge is ultra small too! Goodness me. So difficult to apply powder using small sponges since my face is not all that tiny. Takes forever to cover properly.

Anyway, the sponge is quite soft, and picks up LOTS of powder with just one press if you dip it directly into the powder (which I have to, cos the holes are lousy. Will elaborate later.).

This is bad. Cos it means that the sponge will dump powder onto your face at just one side, and then you have to pat it over to the other side.

By the way, MUJI's Lucent Powder has really soft sponge! It's heavenly. I did not get it, cos I don't want to use shimmer products due to alleged UV damage that it reflective particles may cause. Remember to fight photoaging. =)

Holes on Dispenser Sift
I have no idea why the powder doesn't comes out of this, because the holes don't look small. And the powders don't look big either! But trust me, no matter how hard I tap and shake this thing upside down, the powder refuses to come out. Hence I have to always remove the plastic, and dip my sponge into the tub of powder directly.

I do suspect that my tub is defective though. And I sincerely hope other people do receive a similar tub if they decide to buy Palgantong.

Powder
No good.

Palgantong has really rough particles, which does not blend no matter how I rub it out with the sponge. I rubbed till I feel that my physical sunscreen is going to fall off, and then I give up rubbing. I try to pat. But the heavy streaks are still there.

I felt like being pushed down the cliff, when my friend commented that I am beginning to put on heavier makeup these days. Fact is, I still only have a single layer of loose powder and the blush on. But the Palgantong LP is so visible cos of bad finish. =( Really sad now. This comment really sealed my decision to banish Palgantong to the 18th level of Hell.

Powder Colour
Original Beige is a rather light shade. Probably more for pink undertone individuals. But I feel that it actually suits me just fine, and makes me look fairer, which I like.

I am an NC30, who by recommendation from M.A.C sales assistant, should use NC25 which will still blend in with my neck, yet make me look a lot better. So I guess Original Beige is just that kind of shade that is pretty good for anyone less than NC30.

Powder Scent
It has a really fragrant sweet condense milk smell. Like it.

Pore-clogging
I think it does clogs my pores because I seem to get more pimples nowadays, especially if I wear it for the whole day, and for consecutive days. Be careful of this.

I guess that's all. I shall end my agony trying to review this by doing the ratings.

I love it: 0.5 heart.
I like the colour, the fragrance, the small tub size (good for carry about, can be quite hard to carry Silkygirl if my bag is small), and the screw cap.

Can't stand the huge powder, its refusal to fall through the dispenser holes, difficulty to spread, blend it, and formation of powder streaks on my face.

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L'oreal Superliner

As I've mentioned before, the L'oreal Superliner was introduced to me by a makeup artist, who said that out of so many liners she has used, she always returns to L'oreal.

So since it sounds like a really good eyeliner, I got my hands on it. I was also looking for a liquid black liner anyway because I wanted to do some of the looks that I can't achieve with the Maybelline Gel Liner.

This is the first liquid liner that I own, and wow, yes, it's as wonderful as the makeup artist described!

Loreal Superliner

Love the gold tube.

Available: L'oreal Counters at Watsons, Guardian, Sasa etc. $18.90 disc 20% of $3.75 = $15.15.

Volume: -

Star Properties: Specially made for precision lining

Tip/Thin Lines
- ultra high precision tip that draws the thinnest lines and sharpest tips. Great for winged tip. Love the way it can be blended so well onto my inner eyeline cos of the thinness (should end min. 2mm from inner < but blended naturally onto eye curve).

Brush
- brush softness in between that of MM and Elegance (from Chameleon) allows enough control of brush (slight getting used to for first-timers) yet allows flicking for winged tip.
:: MM's impossible to flick. I used draw... like trying to draw a signature.
:: Elegance was a disaster as I had no control of nail polish like soft tip. Couldn't draw straight line in one go.

Waterline-lining
- Impossible to line waterline. Only goes on dry skin. If die die want to line lower lids, I ended up drawing on the skin outside lower lashes. (So I still substitute with gel liner for lower lids. Or I just go without, and keep to light makeup.)

Liquid Coating Method
- Traditional dipping method better than MM automatic twist to discharge. As liquid coating super uniform, MM have to brush on hand to uniform it and prevent dripping, waste liquid.

L'oreal technology also means perfect amount dipped, zero drip, no need to swipe by side of tube, like nail polish.

Colour
- Colour is an intense shiny black, as compared to matte Maybelline gel liner and shimmer MM. I would see it as the everyday kind of liner, Maybelline for drama and heavy m/u, MM for party.

Price
- price wise, buy 1 Superliner can buy 2 Elegance. lol. MM is more ex.

But the 20% discount from Watsons really makes this so worthwhile!

Smudge
- strangely enough, this is like Gokubuto mascara. Somehow doesn't smudge but 100% gone with a bit of water.

It doesn't smudge on me. But not sure for oily lids. Better don't eat chili for this and tear.

I love it: 4.7 hearts.
Because I am still unsure if it will smudge on abnormal circumstances. So far so good for everyday wear though.

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Bring Along Cotton Buds

I think it's hardly news to anyone that we can dip a cotton bud into makeup (eye) makeup remover to remove any wrong drawings. But the thing about cotton buds is that they are so flimsy, slim and tiny, they are not easy to store unless in bulk (like the way we buy them in).

This poses a problem for me, when I want to carry along cotton buds for doing my makeup out of house.

It set me thinking how I can better carry along cotton buds in my makeup pouch. And when I saw this polypropylene card case, *ding*, the light bulb just switched on.

******

Below is my first card case. It's super slim, and opens horizontally.

But the irritating problem about it is that if you accidentally use too much strength, say when you are in a rush to put on makeup, all the cotton buds will srping up and out of the case when you finally get the case to open!

My first polypropylene, horizontal-side-open, ultra slim card case, to carry cotton buds.

It can only hold one layer of cotton buds, which amounts to 12 for my cotton buds, due to the ultra slim size. But because of the extra height, as can be seen, I could actually place the buds in a one-in one-out fashion, and it will hold more.
Here comes the upgrade, cos I didn't want to risk having the cotton buds all fall out of the case upon opening:

Surprise loot from MUJI - PP Card Case, Top-In Style, for Approx. 20 pieces, 150 yen w/o GST, 158 yen w GST (translated exactly from Japanese Label). SGD2.30.

It was really my first time purchasing from MUJI, though I've stepped in a couple of times before. Can't imagine how surprised I was to find this treasure in there, just when I was thinking of what to replace the horizontal-open case with.

The closer view of the top-open cover. It's opened from the back. So turn over... ...

See the indent at the top? Just place your thumb there and push the lid up. It should open as below. (At first try, I really couldn't figure out to open this, cos of the almost invisible lines of the polypropylene. No screw hinges, nothing.)

Card case opened like a crocodile mouth.

And in goes all my cotton buds.

Can hold exactly 12 cotton buds too, in a single layer.

This case is slightly thicker than the other one, so you can alternate the cotton buds to form some sort of double layer, and this will likely hold some 20 cotton buds or so.
Really good since this means I don't have to refill the case so often. But it also means slightly more space taken up in my makeup pouch.
Finally, below is the two together. =)

The two together.

Actually, I have also thought of using though mint tin boxes, there are really small ones (smaller than Eclipse) by Starbucks, and I've got Wrigley (chewing gum brand) ones from China.

But then I thought the mint boxes are kind of bulky, and I really don't need to store so many cotton buds at once. At most only need 1 or 2, since there isn't much mistakes to be made, only the eyes. Just be more careful while drawing. haha.

So how about you? Do you bring cotton buds and makeup remover out? How do you store it? Any better idea that to share with us? =)

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Etude House O2 White Mask Sheet

This is the first time I have purchased something from Etude House. And it's something that I need - the angled eyeliner brush to replace my Maybelline Gel Liner brush.

I am so not attracted to Etude House's products at all. Not a thing. Every time I go in, I just feel like there is nothing to buy, and I exit empty handed. haha. It puzzles me because Etude House is so doll-like, and I like the feeling.

Anyway, this O2 White Mask Sheet was given out free to anyone who enters the shop at Orchard MRT on that day I went. I think the Korean boss was there too, cos the elder gentleman who was distributing the masks spoke Korean. Guess he wanted to pump in more effort to bring customers into that branch.

As far as I've observed of the Orchard branch, there are countless passerbys, but really very few who enter.

******

Etude House O2 White Mask Sheet

Etude House O2 White Mask Sheet

Available: Etude House

Volume: 1 sheet

Star Properties: (Unable to read Korean)

Packaging
Very good quality plastic with a matte, nice feel.

The cut is good, and easy to tear open, unlike some plastics, and some poor cuts.

Mask Shape
I like the mask shape! This is the best fit mask that I've used so far. The size is just right for my face.

However, this means that people with larger face size probably will find it a bit small. Like my SO... ... He always comments that my face is so much smaller. But I think it shouldn't be a problem for most girls, cos I myself perceive my face as large. Wish it were smaller. LOL.

The mask shape, holes and cutting can be seen here. Observe the tiny slits at the inner corner of the eye.

Holes & Cutting
This is also the best fit and most well-positioned eyes, nose, and mouth holes that I've experienced. For many other masks, I will find that eyes and nose positioning are quite strange, and don't fit me. Either that, or the that the holes are cut too small or too big.

Sheet Quality
I like the way the sheet is slightly elastic. It is thick enough, not flimsy, and wouldn't tear easily.

Time to Dry
With the thick sheet, this mask really can hold lots of essence. It took well over the general stipulated time of 20 minutes to dry up such that I feel like taking it off. This way, I can have a short nap without worrying about fine lines too much.

Results
Highly moisturizing and highly firming! This is also the first time I feel my face so firm after masking. No other observations that should supposedly come with oxygen though. Was slightly disappointed that I didn't see brightening. LOL. But I guess, brightening takes a lot longer time to come into effect as compared to moisturizing.

Essence
A lot, a lot, a lot. haha. I should seriously go and check out the price for this. The amount of essence might be worth the price. :P

I love it: 5 hearts.
(May update rating once I've checked out the price.)

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Bio-essence Bio-Hydra Water Soluble Olive Cleansing Oil

I remember when I first saw this cleansing oil by Bio-essence, I was slightly ecstatic, as I just heard of DHC's Olive Cleansing Oil. I thought Bio-essence's would be a very good alternative to DHC, since it is cheaper, and readily available in Singapore.

However, it turns out that this cleansing oil contains mineral oil, a common skin irritant, so I got disappointed.

I still harboured hopes that this cleansing oil would be good, and I wanted to try it some time. But I definitely do not want to invest in a whole bottle of mineral oil.

Pretty glad that this month's Cleo came with the sample. =)

Bio-essence Bio-Hydra Water Soluble Olive Cleansing Oil

What in the world does it means by water soluble olive oil??? Scientifically not possible as far as my knowledge goes.

Available: Watsons, Guardian, John Little, BHG

Volume: -

Star Properties: Fine molecules disintegrate makeup for easy and thorough makeup removal. Nourishes skin while removing makeup.

Packaging
I have picked up the pump bottle before, and I think it's okay. I like the the pump.

Ingredients
It is good to avoid mineral oil as it is a common skin irritant, and known to clog pores.

I myself suddenly broke out because of it. Immediately, those little acne bumps popped up and became red while I was still massaging the oil around my face!

Mineral Oil as the first ingredient. Not worth your money.

Cleansing Power
Cleansing power is in my opinion, totally non-existent. I had to rub many times for all my mascara to go off. I also had to take a second dosage of oil to remove my mascara.

This almost can't remove the Maybelline Gel Liner at all. =((( Really kept rubbing and rubbing. Bad for eyes.

Base on this factor alone, I've already failed Bio-essence's cleansing oil.

Moisturizing
It really left my skin super smooth, and super soft! I think it must be the olive oil. I wonder if the DHC CO is also like that.

However, I am very paranoid, and was thinking, "is it the dirty oil still on my face? Or is really the good olive oil???" Thus I used my bubble makeup remover to cleanse off the oil feel, followed by my MF Cleanser to replenish the nutrients and softness.

PS: I really like the fact that MF Cleanser not only is a cleanser that leaves my skin smooth, I can feel how it nourishes my skin. My favourite gel cleanser is more cleaning with a mild approach, but not as nourishing.

I love it: 0.5 hearts.
I am giving credit for the extremely soft skin I get from using it. But as a makeup remover, forget it. lol. Doesn't cleanse, yet make me break out.

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How to Choose a Good Camera

It's festive season coming again! With less than a month to both Chinese New Year (CNY) and Valentine's day, I believe lots of people are busy spring cleaning, buying new year goodies, and gifts.

With the big discounts still on, still going, and still hot, the spending season never seems to end, does it?

Aside from discounts on clothes and food, which are CNY's staples, I am also seeing discounts on gadgets. Especially for Valentine's day, on which day, the gift may range from jewelery all the way to more sophisticated, hobby-specific items like cameras.

With the rise of the coloured ultra compact cameras, and the dip in electronic prices, the chic cams are steadily becoming one of the best more expensive gifts to choose.

And precisely because it is expensive, that one should take extra care choosing, and really squeeze every bit of value out of the dollar.

So yet again, by painful experience, I wish to share a little on how to choose a good camera.

******

The image below is from Digital Life, January 12, 2010. It shows a comparison of the latest compact cameras, and with it is the article writeup of the reporter's experience, which I did not scan, since I will not be touching on it.

If you have the budget, and are lazy to read, just got for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7 for overall best, as it is the only camera cum camcorder out of the 6.

If you are the heavy and lasy to charge user, go for Casio, which is cheap and has the super longest battery life ever.

Don't worry about overall statistics, cos all 6 shortlisted here have everything it takes. It's just the minor details that determine which is the best of the best.

Comparison of the 6 best latest compact cameras.

The best way to buy a camera that you have 99% chance of not regretting, is to test, test, and test it.

So what are the things that you should look out for? And how do you go about testing that feature?

Minimum criteria that you want to look out for:
1. 5 megapixels (nowadays, most have minimum 8MP, so not to worry)
If you are non-professional, 5 is more than enough. It will still look good if you blow up to drawing block size.

Too many people do not understand this logic, and they pay ridiculous prices for 10MP or 12MP while the optical zoom is only 3x. And advertisements too understand that the masses do not understand, so that tout the high MP camera as very good to get people to buy. Coupled with the hot fuchsia, royal blue, apple green colours, it's just sounds irresistible, and one will buy.

2. Around 8-12x optical zoom. (3x is only for show. It's no use even if tiny Singapore. Not to mention if you want to use it on your precious, precious one-time tours.) Don't get cheated no matter how cheap and slim those 3x zoom cameras are. Should be pretty easy to get in today's market compared to 2 years ago.

3. Steady shot.
To test, increase zoom to maximum. Take a picture of a text. Review the picture. You should be able to read the words, and with no blurring at all.

***A lot of camera fail this feature.

4. If you always go out at night, try to get as much flash as possible. Preferably 10m.

5. Battery.
Look for rechargeable Li-ion ones. Using AA will kill you. Too inconvenient.

This may seem insignificant, but trust me. I felt like throwing away my Sony H5 from 3 years' ago cos I can't stand it.

6. Size.
If a camera fulfills all the above, it should not be the 1cm thick kind. At least it will be 2-3cm thick.

And be careful not to buy a DSLR. If you are scared of weight and inconvenience, you will regret the bulky thing.

Be prepared to compromise on the flash and a bit on the zoom (min. 5x optical zoom) if you are not prepared for a DSLR.

Canon has better pictures when you print out. Sony has better steadyshot feature. But my friend who was a salesman, says Sony camera always spoils.

You can request the sales assistant to test print a picture for you.

PS: I saw a few ads over these 3 years that tells me many of Panasonic cameras more or less have what it takes. Worth checking not so common brand out, other than Canon.

The last thing you want to do is to die die insist on one brand. Go for the criteria first, check out everything and play around.

I hope this helps either now or in future. I am also blogging this, so I may archive my experience for my own future reference. =) Good luck on your search, if you are intending to get one this year!

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Newsreads: ST Jan 13, Jan 19

Once again, I think the following news are worth sharing with the world. =)

Hours of TV watching can shorten your life

OoPs!

The two quotes are so true, it made it to my facebook as quotes of the day! Love it so much.

This news caught my attention, because I am a big TV watcher. My whole family is.

As far back as I can remember, my TV is switched on everyday, on the dot at 7pm, because that's the time when all the drama serials start.

On cartoon days, it's on from 4 or 5pm.

And worst still, in the time when there was no 24hours TV, you can be sure my black box is on till "Mari-kita" plays at 12am. (Singapore's National Anthem, Majulah Singapura or Onward Singapore, begins with "Mari-kita rayat, Singapura, sama sama menuju, bahagia, cita cita kita yang mulia, Majula, Singapura... ...")

Gosh! I still remember the lyrics of the national anthem! I know I should. But honestly, I haven't sung it once in 4 years already. And probably still counting.

With all the attempt to lead a healthier lifestyle, I think it is good to note from time to time that simple things like standing up and walking about (which we usually forget), can make a huge difference to your life.

In fact, studies have already shown that taking 10 000 steps a day keeps your metabolism up, and thus unconsciously burn more fats, so preventing the accumulation of fats in your arteries and so on and so forth. Thereby resulting in a decreased rate of contracting diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and leading to a prolonged life.

Walking before meals is said to decrease appetite, which prevents overeating. Walking another 45 minutes after meals is also well known to increase the burning of calories.

I read Bodyblitz now and then, and he has posted very good information about the benefits of moving throughout the day, and why it works --> Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT).

I think it helps to remember the two quotes in the papers. It really makes me feel stupid to commit the acts the doctors talk about, so I will stand up and do something! LOL.

Caffeine sweets tested for use in SAF

Can't believe they do "force" soldiers to use caffeine.

Highly probable that my future son will need to eat this caffeine sweet. *worries*

To highlight, it says that:
- soldier out at field need to stay awake, and they often use caffeine in the form of coffee
- instead of drinking a cup of coffee, this sweet will be easier to take and more convenient
- the US, Canada and Australia are already using caffeine sweets, but not exported to Singapore
- the average person can stay awake for 48hours, but will lose concentration after some 30hours
- 250mg of caffeine is similar to a shot of espresso
- it take 1 hour for the full effects to kick in, and will last about 4 hours
- should this sweet be approved, it would go into the combat rations issued for outfield training
- there are concerns over side effects such as heart palpitation, nausea and headaches
- the safety limit is 600mg/day, or 8 cups of coffee
- precautions such as safe use advisories, will be printed on the packet
- soldiers will also be brief on it
- the caffeine sweet is necessary to maintain concentration and lower the risks of accidents
- soldiers should still train their alertness and stamina, and only use the sweet as a complement

For this article, my main concern is definitely the health hazards that comes with caffeine intake. It may be little and insignificant, but I think there could be repercussions, like the mentality built up that they can rely on caffeine to do things. All these are question marks...

But knowing Singapore, all we can do is sit and watch. Results will speak for itself. And I hope my concern is unduly.

******

And last, but definitely not least!

Victoria Secrest Opens Tomorrow!

Beauty Store of the Year!

Asia's first Victoria's Secret store is slated to open at Resorts World Sentosa tomorrow!

It is times like this that I feel proud of my country. It's been an awfully long way since we started. It does means something, and something done right, when you see Mango, Zara, Gap, Topshop/Topman, Forever 21, Dorothy Perkins, Ms Selfridge, Sephora, Uniqlo, and now Victoria's Secret all opening stores here. More and more. And for some, VS, it is flagship store. Sephora is also using Singapore as its Asia base.

The boutique, with a size of 2787 sq m, will be the first luxury retail store to open in the integrated resort (IR).

If you are interested in luxury shopping, do also look out for Damiani and Cavali, which are both new brands for us.

There will also be a beauty hall and Swiss watch gallery, the latter I feel is worth visiting, just to see see if you don't mind the weird stares from sales assistants. I like the way Swiss does the watch technology, and take so much pride in it.

In any case, I am also really excited about VS. I like the bags and the body care! LOL. I still don't own any of its lingerie.

Do you own any VS? How is it actually?

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