Saturday, August 16, 2014

If you've been following this blog, you'd know by now that I have some sort of addiction to skin care products, particularly from known Korean brands.

As for facial cleansers, I know I've tried Missha; I've tried Skin79; I've tried Etude House; I know I've tried quite a lot already and I do have mixed emotions about trying them all. Some were great; they were extremely effective and great to use! While others, are not so great - some performed even worse than expected.

Anyway, today's review would be about a cleanser, once again from Korean brand - Etude House.


It's called the Etude House Happy Essential Foam Cleanser. Would it really make us happy - as the name suggests? Let's see.

Apparently, there are 5 variants of the Etude House Happy Essential Foam:

Yellow: Vitamin C - Turn into bright skin!
Pink: Collagen - Turn into elastic skin!
Blue: Hyaluronic - Turn into Moistfull Skin!
Light Grey: White Clay - Bye Oily Day, Hello Smooth Skin!
Dark Grey: Witch Hazel - Turn into Clean, Smooth Skin!

As you could see, I got the pink one, which is Collagen. It promises to improve the elasticity and firmness of the skin.

Take a look at the photo below to know what it does/promises:

Yep, Etude House prints English on its products


Manufacturing date embedded at the top of the tube
Packaging

Obviously, packaging is your typical facial cleansing tube - except for the extra cute graphics - that makes me wanna smile every time I see it. I have no problems with it, and it seals well, too.

Formulation 

One thing that really makes it different from all the other cleansers that I've tried is its texture. Its texture is not runny. Extracting some product from the tube takes some time, too, but it lathers really well on the skin.

It also has a subtle powdery scent to it, which I happen to love. The scent goes away after you lather it on your palms.


Effectiveness

Although the packaging states that the formulation contains 40% of moisturizers, the foam, every time I use it, leaves my facial skin dry. I also suspect that it has caused the appearance of red spots on my skin. They almost look like pimples, but they are not. Just red spots that are annoying to look at. Maybe, it's just a reaction to the cleanser.

Honestly, I'm not really sure if this particular cleanser delivered its promises. There appears to be no improvements on my face. No improvement on elasticity, and no improvement on firmness. I don't feel that tightening effect though, so maybe it's a good thing.

Maybe, just maybe, this is NOT the right cleanser for me.

Rating:

Packaging - 5.00 out of 5.00
Formulation - 4.50 out of 5.00
Effectiveness - 2.00 out of 5.00

Overall Rating: 3.83 out of 5.00

Pros:

  • Smells great 
  • Cleanses impurities well
  • A little product goes a long way
  • No tightening effect
  • Didn't cause any breakouts
  • Lathers really well
  • Very easy to use

Cons:

  • Dries skin
  • May have caused appearance of tiny red spots
  • No visible improvements on skin 
Repurchase?

For this particular variant? No. 

I might want to try Hyaluronic, though.

The Etude House Happy Essential Foam Cleansers retails at Php 248.00 at Etude House stores. 

What do you think?

Don't be shy! Just let me know by typing your comments below!

Love lots,


Newbee


[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product at her own expense. Please note that the reviews are not by any chance made by an expert on makeup and skincare; these reviews are all based on the author’s limited knowledge, thoughts, and opinions. 
If you have beauty products that you’d like me to review, let me know!  

Need advertising space? This blog is also open for advertising. Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com

Review: Etude House Happy Essential Foam Collagen

Saturday, August 2, 2014

July 2014 is finally over!

I'm glad to inform you, my dear readers, that it's about time for another BDJ Box unboxing! 

I know it should have been done earlier, but the July box just came in late. In fact, it was shipped just last July 30. However, all the BDJ bellas subscribed to the July 2014 BDJ Box were informed that the box would come in a little late than usual. Thank you BDJ Team for the advance notice. 

The long wait is finally over! The box that was delivered to our home just this afternoon turned out to be the BDJ Box I've been waiting for! 

Bigger BDJ Box?! 

 Look! It's bigger (and heavier!) than the other BDJ Boxes I've had since January 2014. But does BIGGER (and HEAVIER) mean BETTER? Let's see.

The box looked a little worn out. I'm guessing it's because of the weight of the things inside it.

When I peeked inside, things were a little topsy turvy than usual. Well, the box was bigger, and there was more space for the items inside to move around. And, I rummaged the box for a while, before finally taking a photo.


July 2014's theme is Pure and Simple. I love the sound of that. Let's take a look at the items one by one. I've sorted these according to my favorites:

Keratin Complex Travel Valet Care Kit (89ml) 
This shampoo and conditioner duo from Keratin Complex was developed to provide a gentle cleansing that will not diminish the precious nutrients of healthy hair. This sodium chloride free formula is recommended for dry, chemically over processed or damaged hair.  
I was happy to see something that I could use for sure. I have damaged hair, and I'm running out of shampoo and conditioner. Good thing both the shampoo and conditioner from BDJ come from a brand that I haven't heard of. I'm pretty excited on using this. I hope these two could significantly improve the condition of my hair.

The duo, according to the curator card, retails for Php 495.00.

Nivea Pure Effect Exfoliating Wipes (20 wipes) 
Your handy cleansing and exfoliating facial wipes you can take anywhere!
A few months back, I used to hoard Celeteque facial wipes, but I eventually gave up because they eat up most of my budget. I like wipes such as these, because I could skip on the facial wash in the evening (when I really need to), especially when  my eyes are really tired from doing all the computer work for at least 8 hours.

Celeteque's wipes were rather pricey - Php 160 for 20 wipes. Nivea's cheaper at Php 139 for 20 wipes, and it promises to exfoliate the skin, too. I really have high hopes for this one.

Vitress Hair Repair Cuticle Coat (30ml)
Bring back your hair's natural shine and have healthy, satin-smooth hair everyday
Vitress Heat Protect Cuticle Coat (30ml)
Protect your hair from damages and wear all the styles you want.
Both Vitress products bring back memories. When I was still in college, I used to use Vitress to improve the appearance and texture of my hair. However, I eventually broke away from that habit, because my last few years in college took up most of my time and my budget.

Vitress has been a tried and tested product of mine, and I'm really glad I have two of them in my BDJ Box. Each 30ml bottle retails for Php 75.00.

Nivea Anti-Perspirant Invisible Spray for Black and White (30ml)
Say no to cloth stains and stay protected from sweat and body odor. 
While I'm almost 100% sure that I won't be happy receiving an anti-perspirant from a subscription box, I admit I'm quite satisfied that I did for today's BDJ Box. After all, it's Nivea, a brand that I've used in the past and wouldn't mind using again.

This anti-perspirant, on the other hand, is a first for me. I have high expectations for this one as well. Although it might sound crazy, I'm glad that BDJ Box sent a sample size of this anti-perspirant and not a full-sized one. I'm not really sure how this would work for me, but I'll definitely give this a try.

Full-sized product at 150ml retails at Php 184. A 30ml product must be around Php 37.00.

Hygienix Hand Gel (100ml) 
Fight germs while keeping your hand s nourished and refreshed wherever you go.
Hygienix Hand Spray (55ml)
Keep your hands soft, smooth, and moisturized on the go!
Both Hygienix Products are not new to me, but I don't mind using them over and over again. It's pretty sweet of BDJ to include these. I guess I have something else to use aside from my Bath and Body Works Pocket Sanitizers.

The Hygienix Hand Gel (100 ml) retails for Php 45.00, while the Hygienix Hand Spray (55ml) is at Php 40.00.

Enchanted Eyeshadow Palette 6g
This long-wear eye shadow palette contains 3 shades that allow you to add depth and drama to your eyes. Swipe on the lightest shade as an overall color while using the medium shade to contour, then use the darkest shade to line your eyes. 
I'm not so fond of applying eye shadows, but I think this one's worth keeping, cause I might need it soon. I heard that this isn't the first time that BDJ sent out Enchanted Eyeshadow Palettes to BDJ Bellas, but I bet that was before I started subscribing. 

I know I might sound funny, but aren't smokey eyes too sophisticated for a 'Pure and Simple' themed box? Or is it just me? 

The Enchanted Eyeshadow Palette, by the way, retails at Php 199.00 each. 

Nivea In Shower Skin Conditioner (10ml) 
Replenish your skin moisture without that hot sticky feeling. 
This product got me thinking. Is this a lotion? If it is, then is there a lotion that must be rinsed off during shower? Or is this a skin conditioner? Or a body wash?

Is it just me, or the label is just so confusing??

Anyway, I'm also glad I got one sachet, but it would have been better if there were 10, so that I could judge  if it could really deliver its promises.

100ml retails at Php 109, so the sachet could have been a little more than Php 10 each.

Celeteque Back Acne Spray (50ml)
 Formulated with salicylic acid, which exfoliates the skin and works to reduce blemishes and acne. It also contains gluconolactone, which gently removes the build-up of dead skin cells, helping to prevent future breakouts. Spray after bathing and make sure to let it dry completely. 
To be frank, this product is something that I don't need. I don't have problems with Back Acne or anything of the like, so I gave it away. My sisters and my parents are still arguing to whom this will go to. They have lots of trouble with back acne.

The Celeteque Back Acne Spray in 50ml retails at Php 320.00.

Pink Sugar Fine Fragrance Mist in Bloom (250ml
 Fall in love at first spritz with Pink Sugar's 12 various scents, grouped into their Fruity, Naughty, Dreamy and Happy Collections. You're sure to find one that will suite your every mood and emotion. Use it throughout the day as a refreshing way to feel and smell great! 
This is the first time for me to receive a fragrance mist from BDJ. However, when I sprayed it on my hands, I started sneezing. My nose began to react to the scent.

So, it goes without saying that the Pink Sugar Fragrance Mist will have to go somebody else. My mom happily accepted it; surprisingly, she even said that it's a really good fragrance and she's going to use it alternately with Victoria's Secret.

The Pink Sugar Fragrance Mist costs around Php 299 for scents under the Fruity Collection, and Php 249 each for scents under the Happy, Dreamy and Naughty Collection.

Envie Aestheticare and Medispa Voucher 
This came in last, just because, I can't use it.

Anyway, the last few photos are from the July 2014 BDJ curator card that came in with the box.




The total cost of the items in this box is almost Php 1700, which is almost thrice the subscription fee of Php 580. In terms of quantity, this is still great! 

I'm happy that I got this box, though, I must admit I've seen better from BDJ. Keep it up, BDJ! :) I'm a happy Bella. :) 

Anyway, what do you think?

Interested in BDJ Box?

Click on the links below to know more about BDJBox!

BDJBox Facebook

BDJ Box Subscription

Better hurry, because the boxes are selling like hotcakes!


Love,


Newbee


 [DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product at her own expense. Please note that the reviews are not by any chance made by an expert on makeup and skincare; these reviews are all based on the author’s limited knowledge, thoughts, and opinions. 
If you have beauty products that you’d like me to review, let me know! 

Do you have any business inquiries? Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com














Unboxing Post: BDJ Box July 2014 - Pure and Simple

Thursday, July 31, 2014

According to numerous sources, pleasant scents and fragrances could effectively reduce stress and provide quite a number of benefits for one's well-being. 

I, for one, believe in the benefits of aromatherapy. This new-found love led me to an obsession with aromas, fragrances and scents. I have tried varieties of colognes, perfumes, lotions, oil-fragrances, reed diffusers, and even scented candles. Yes, the list goes on and on and on, but I don't mind. It's like happiness in a little bottle. 

This love, though, started somewhere, and for all I know, the product that I'll be reviewing today is one of the few that influenced me to love fragrances in various forms. This is not a new scent; this was released by Bath and Body Works sometime in 2012, but I'll review it anyway. 

Everyone, meet the Bath and Body Works Signature Collection Pink Chiffon Body Lotion 8 fl oz/ 236 ml:


Product name: Bath and Body Works Signature Collection Pink Chiffon Body Lotion
Size:  8.00 fl oz or 236ml
Got it as a GIFT from a dear friend
Once a day, preferably before going to sleep
Used by blogger for: 3 months
Price: USD 11.00

Product Description:

Our exclusive Signature Body Lotion formula, fortified with powerful ingredients like super conditioning Shea Butter, fast absorbing Jojoba Oil and protective Vitamin E, hydrates skin with moisture that lasts all day. Our non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and completely to leave skin feeling incredibly soft, smooth and nourished, making it the perfect daily moisturizer.

Smooth over body to moisturize and lightly fragrance skin with our exclusive Pink Chiffon, an ultra-feminine blend of sparkling red pear, vanilla orchid and whipped chiffon musk inspired by the effortless grace and beauty of a master ballerina. 



My Experience / Impressions:

When it was given to me, I wasn't really excited on slathering it on my skin. I mean, I don't really like lotions, especially those that don't have SPF. This, unfortunately, doesn't have SPF. 

Also, my first sniff was not so memorable then. I initially thought that it's a scent that I won't like. So, I kept this on my shelf for a while, which is obviously a mistake because I ended up liking it  loving it.

I've been using this on my hands before going to sleep. 

Read on if you'd like to know more.

Packaging

BBW's packaging is really attractive. Well, as for this, you could probably see that it the container alone looks irresistible. It's made of plastic - but it's not the kind that would feel cheap on your hands. Plus, the cap seals really well.

None of the BBW lotions came with a box, or a complete plastic wrap, in case you're expecting such. Sometimes, the caps would only be sealed by some sort of adhesive, similar to a scotch tape. Sometimes, only the topmost portion of the bottle would be covered by a shrink wrap.

One concern though, I couldn't see signs of the manufacturing date or even the expiry date. As for the batch code, I suspect that it's the code right at the bottom of the container, but I might be wrong.

I don't think the cap will give you any problems. It seals properly and the opening is just perfect. 
Formulation

Fragrance

Like I mentioned earlier, I didn't like the scent at first. It smelt overpowering and it was overly floral. However, it became clear to me eventually that it was a mistake to judge a scent from smelling it right from its container. It should be allowed to come in contact with skin, and let its fragrance diffuse before making any judgments.

According to the official Bath and Body Works Website, the Pink Chiffon Body Lotion has the following fragrance notes:

* Top Notes: Sparkling Pear, Peach Nectar, Wild Berries
*Mid Notes: Tiare Flower, Jasmine Petals, Waterlily, Sheer Apple Blossom
*Dry Notes: Coconut Milk, Vanilla Orchid, Creamy Sandalwood, Chiffon Musk

To be honest, I really don't know how some of the notes actually smell, and for one, I recognize some scents on the list, but I couldn't tell for sure if I could smell them on the lotion. I guess, I could only smell some hints of pears and berries, and the rest is a combination of a lot of other notes.

I could also detect some sillage on it, but it's not too overpowering, in my opinion. It's a bit pleasant, actually.

It's definitely an ultra-feminine/floral scent, which could remind you of a young ballerina. I guess, the description really comes close to how I imagine the scent would be. I love the scent because it's not overpowering, and it's really close to a HAPPY scent, which indeed, made my bad days better.

Lotion

Aside from the scent, I don't find anything special about it. It is indeed non-greasy and moisturizes a bit, but it's still the typical lotion - I find it uncomfortable to use during daytime, and it's too warm to use in a humid country such as ours. One thing I appreciate also, is the fact that it doesn't leave a white cast on your skin, like most lotions do.

I opt to use it as a hand cream every night though. I love smelling it on my hands during evenings.

Rating:

Packaging - 4.50 out of 5.00
Scent - 4.00 out of 5.00 (including longevity and sillage)
Formulation - 4.00 out of 5.00 (as a lotion)
Cost Effectiveness - 3.50 out of 5.00

Average Rating: 4.00 out of 5.00

Pros:
  • Very fragrant
  • Moisturizes
  • Non-greasy
  • Easily absorbed by the skin
  • No white cast on skin


Cons:
  • Scent doesn't last too long
  • Warm on the skin
I love this lotion because of its scent. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves floral fragrances. 

So sorry for the lengthy post. I hope you now have an idea what the Pink Chiffon could do for you. 

Till the next post!

Love lots, 


Newbee

[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product at her own expense. Please note that the reviews are not by any chance made by an expert on makeup and skincare; these reviews are all based on the author’s limited knowledge, thoughts, and opinions. 
If you have beauty products that you’d like me to review, let me know!  
Need advertising space? This blog is also open for advertising. Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com




Review: Bath and Body Works Signature Collection Pink Chiffon Body Lotion 8 fl oz/ 236 ml

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

A lot of girls, like me (and probably, you), are in a hunt for the perfect whitehead and blackhead remover. 

If you're extra conscious about whiteheads and blackheads on your face, you might need a good peel off mask to take away those pesky flaws.

Speaking of peel-off masks, the iWhite Korea Nose Pack Whiteheads and Blackheads Remover looks promising. Let’s see how well it fared in my standards. 


Product name: iWhite Korea Nose Pack Whiteheads and Blackheads Remover 
Size: 1.76 oz or 150g
Bought from: Watsons
Frequency of use: Once a week
Used by blogger for: 4 weeks
Price: Php 189.00

It is a solution that is effective in removing whiteheads and blackheads, eliminates deep-seated dirt and other impurities. It minimizes the pores and excess oil on the nose.

·         Directions for Use: Wash face with iwhite Facial Wash. Apply ample amount of iWhite Nose Pack on the nose and spread the solution evenly. Wait for 15 minutes or until it dries and peel off from the base of the nose upward. For best results, use 2-4 times a week.



Made in Korea by Re-Bom Cosmetics Co., Ltd. 



My Experience/ Impressions

Packaging

The iWhite Korea Nose Pack Whiteheads and Blackheads Remover's packaging is typical - it's in a handy tube, which proves to be very efficient to use. It's hygienic, too.

It doesn't come with a box though, not even with a plastic covering, but I haven't had any problems with it, whatsoever. Plus, the basic information you need to know - like expiry date, batch code, and manufacturing date, are all printed on the tube.

Most of all, the descriptions, list of ingredients, and directions are all in English. It's nothing special but it works great for me. Packaging is simply perfect.



Formulation

Do you remember how Elmer's glue looks like? How it smells like?

If you do, then it would be easy for me to describe this blackheads and whiteheads remover to you.

Honestly, I suspect that this could have been the improvised version of the Elmer's glue - especially made to, you know, remove the impurities on your nose. Just kidding. 

Kidding aside, the consistency and the scent of the product is very close to the glue. It's sticky and it somehow solidifies a few seconds after it comes in contact with air.

If you'd apply it on your nose, you would notice that it would fill in the gaps and pores on your skin. Leave it on for a few minutes, and enjoy peeling it off thereafter. It should help clear the impurities on your nose.

A little product goes a long way

BUT!

I have been trying this product for over a month now, and one thing I've noticed, is that whenever I try this on my nose, nothing really significant happens to my skin.

True, it improves my skin a little bit - making it look cleaner and more supple, but the effects are only temporary. Also, I was disappointed when I couldn't find whiteheads and/or blackheads sticking out on the peeled mask. Meaning, it failed to remove my impurities - not even the ones that stuck out of my skin.

BUT!

This doesn't mean it wouldn't work differently on you. Just give it a try if you're interested.

RATING 

Packaging - 5.00 out of 5.00
Formulation - 3.50 out of 5.00
Cost Efficiency - 3.00 out of 5.00

Average Rating: 3.83 out of 5.00 

Pros: 

  • Simple, handy and hygienic packaging
  • Information are printed in English
  • Manufactured date, expiry date and batch code printed on tube
  • Very easy to use
  • Enhances condition of the skin temporarily
Cons: 
  • Failed to remove whiteheads and blackheads
Since this product may not be for me, I don't think I'll repurchase this. I enjoyed the experience anyway. Who would have thought peeling would be THIS fun?

That's all for today!

Thanks for visiting my blog.

Love,


Newbee



[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product at her own expense. Please note that the reviews are not by any chance made by an expert on makeup and skincare; these reviews are all based on the author’s limited knowledge, thoughts, and opinions. 
If you have beauty products that you’d like me to review, let me know!  
Need advertising space? This blog is also open for advertising. Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com





Review: iWhite Korea Nose Pack Whiteheads and Blackheads Remover 1.76oz (50g)

Thursday, July 10, 2014

I can't live without wax. 

There, I said it. Sadly, I'm not one of those lucky few who are free from unwanted hair. 

While there are so many products out there that could remove hair, I still prefer waxing. Waxing can be so painful, but a few tries and you'll definitely get the hang of it. Plus, it effectively removes hair that it takes about 2-4 weeks for hair regrowth. If you're lucky, too, your hair may not grow back again, which happened to my sister's legs after the first few tries of waxing. 

Would you even believe it that I even wax my brows so that they would stay in tiptop shape? 

In other words, wax is very important to me, and when I found out I ran out of my favorite waxing product last week, I panicked. I can't possibly have my favorite wax, especially when I have to try and purchase it online. I have to wait at least 3 days to obtain it, and I can't wait for even a day! 

I gave up and decided to stick to my other option. I headed to the nearest mall, and looked for an alternative. Browsing through the shelves, I realized that there were so many waxing options available, including Epilin, a hot kind of wax, which I happened to love when I was in my college days. But, I ended up my relationship with Epilin sooner than expected - because I almost burnt my skin with it when I tried waxing. Since then, I shied away from hot waxes. 

After careful thought and consideration, I ended up with Nanny Rose's Queen Bee Sticks and Pulls Honey Wax All Natural Hair Remover in 50g. Curiosity got the best of me. I mean, its packaging says that it can work both as a hot and cold wax. Plus, it was on sale; I saved only about 10 pesos though, but I badly needed my wax! 

Sorry for the random ramblings up to this point. I felt like talking, anyway. Ladies, without further ado, meet the Nanny Rose's Queen Bee Sticks and Pulls Honey Wax: 



The 50g kit contains: 1) 50g of natural honey wax; 2) 2 pcs of thin wooden applicators; 3) reusable, washable, cloth pulls.

According to the packaging: 

Nanny Rose's honey wax will spruce you up in the sweetest way possible. This sticky pot is a combination of locally produced honey, sugar and calamansi juice. It contains no harsh chemicals and ingredients that can cause allergies that is why it can be used on sensitive skin and delicate areas. Making use of ingredients that are closest to nature, you can be sure that every jar of Nanny Rose's honey wax is made with love. Now made even better and closer to nature by using unrefined and unbleached honey sugar. 

With Nanny Rose's honey wax, hair s removed down to the roots, leaving your skin smooth, and hairless for 3 to 4 weeks. Your kit can last up to 2 years if properly kept. Seal the cap after every use. This kind of wax may be used as is. But for best results, it is highly recommended to use it warm.

It's a recipe. Not a formulation.  


This particular wax can be used either as a cold wax or hot wax, and I'm pretty glad that they provided specific instructions on how to use it properly:

How to use:
  1. Simply remove cap and heat the jar of wax in a microwave oven (in medium heat) for 10-15 seconds, just enough to soften the mixture. Stir the mixture and let it rest until its temperature is cool enough to apply on skin. (HOT WAX)
  2. Prep your skin by washing the area with soap and water to remove unwanted residue. Dash a little powder on the area to be waxed to keep it dry. 
  3. Using the wooden applicator, apply a thin layer of the wax in the direction of hair growth. In the same direction, place the strip of cloth on top and even out air bubbles. 
  4. Swiftly pull the end of the cloth towards the opposite direction - against hair growth. Repeat as needed. 
  5. Reddening of the skin after waxing is normal. Wax residue on skin can easily be removed with a damp cloth. Allow pores to close by letting skin rest for at least 30 minutes before completely washing the waxed area.
A SWEET REMINDER: Do not use on broken and irritated skin. 


MY EXPERIENCE/ IMPRESSIONS

In case you're not aware, hot waxes are often difficult to apply. You will have to determine when is the best time to put it on your skin. Put it too soon, and you might scald your skin; put it a little later, and you might end up reheating the whole thing because the wax temperature may not be enough to hold the hairs. 

My Epilin days made me shy away from Hot Wax, which is why I decided not to use the Nanny Rose wax as hot wax. This review will only focus on the Nanny Rose's capability as cold wax, and nothing more. 

Packaging

One of the reasons why I bought this was the packaging; hey, it stood out from the rest of the waxes out there! I knew I had to give it a try. 

As you could see on the photos, the plain box was cleverly and creatively given an identity with a simple piece of paper. It's simple, and yet, very irresistible. At first glance, I really thought that this product could have been an import, probably from the US, but boy, I was wrong, or I might be wrong. This is locally made! Plus points for that! 

Also, it comes with a microwaveable tub. Pretty useful for those who are thinking of using it as hot wax. Did I mention that it has a printed manufacturing date and batch code on it? 

Obviously, the packaging is perfect for me. No doubt about that. 


Formulation (Oops! I meant RECIPE!) 

To be honest, I've had a hard time opening the tub. The wax almost solidified on the lid! Well, I let it pass since my favorite wax just happens to have that kind of problem as well. Maybe, it's the norm among cold waxes. 

Here's a tip: store the wax properly or you'll end up with a lopsided product that would surely take all of your strength before you manage to use it! The first time I used this, I almost had no strength left to continue my waxing routine, but I managed anyway.

Anyway, by the time you open the lid (congratulations on doing so), you'll be greeted with a heavenly scent of honey and sugar. Delicious and sweet! 

Sadly, the sweet scent is the only good part in this review. The rest is somewhat hellish. 

Who would have thought that the wax would be as hard as stone?! 

Crazy as it sounds, I spent a lot of time scraping through the hard-as-stone wax. The thin wooden applicator is simply a failure! Both wooden applicators broke after a couple of tries, and the cloth just does nothing. The wax would hardly adhere to it! 

I tried using my canvass type strips and they seem to work even better. Once the wax adheres to the skin, pull it out using the strips, and it would appear that every hair is pulled out. Nice try. BUT!!! I have to do a lot of work to be able to cover a tiny patch of my skin - tinier than what my favorite cold wax could do. 

This HG contender on waxing is just a disappointment. Plus, its formulation makes waxing even more painful. Duh?! It solidifies and when you pull it out, it hurts like hell! My favorite wax doesn't do that kind of thing. In fact, the pain is hardly there. 

Cost to Benefit

Sorry, but I have nothing good to say about the Nanny Rose's Recipe (formulation). Nice try, but too bad. I guess what I spent is not worth it. Even if it was a measly Php 80.00 for a 50g product, I still find it a waste as a Cold Wax. 

Rating
  • Packaging - 5.00 out of 5.00 
  • Formulation - 1.00 out of 5.00
  • Cost to Benefit - 2.00 out of 5.00 
Average Product Rating: 2.67 out of 5.00

Pros: 
  • Lovely scent
  • Pretty packaging
  • Works as a wax
Cons:
  • Very difficult to use
  • Both the applicators and cloth strips are useless
  • Very painful to use
  • Extremely sticky 
  • Solidifies easily
  • Hard to scrape
  • Could only wax a tiny portion 
Repurchase?

Obviously, I won't. This is just too much for me to try again. 

Sorry if I couldn't judge this product as an Hot Wax. However, I'm certain that the makers behind the Nanny Rose Wax should have never labelled this as COLD WAX. It doesn't work well, and I guess it's a failure. 

Let me know what you think on this!

Till the next review!

Love lots,


NEWBEE



[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product at her own expense. Please note that the reviews are not by any chance made by an expert on makeup and skincare; these reviews are all based on the author’s limited knowledge, thoughts, and opinions. 
If you have beauty products that you’d like me to review, let me know!  
Need advertising space? This blog is also open for advertising. Please send me a message to:newbeeworld31@gmail.com


Review: Nanny Rose's Queen Bee Sticks and Pulls Honey Wax All Natural Hair Remover 50g (as COLD WAX)

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Hi all!

Here’s another review. This time, it will be about the:

Missha All Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel SPF30 PA++ in 50ml Tube


The Missha All-Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel in SPF30 PA++ offers extra sun protection to suit even people with sensitive skin. It contains patent ingredients from seven kinds of oriental tea extract.


In addition, the Missha All-Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel promises to lock in moisture to the skin so as to keep it moisturized without the shine and the stickiness. This gel can be applied to the face and other parts of the body. 



MY EXPERIENCE/IMPRESSIONS

Packaging

Nothing out of the ordinary when it comes to the packaging, but I like it. It’s cute, presentable, and pretty handy, too. It originally came in with a matching box, but sad to say, I lost it.


Everything would have been perfect – if Missha added some English descriptions on the tube. Sadly, I couldn’t find any. Also, if you’re looking for the expiry date, you wouldn’t find it on the tube as well. Instead, you’ll find both the batch code and manufacturing date embedded at the topmost part of the tube. Not bad.



Although it looks pretty standard, there’s one thing that really stands out; notice that the opening of the tube is somewhat pointed, similar to that of a pen. Probably, the manufacturers designed this from keeping us users from using too much product. I like it because it does its job well, and it prevents extra lotion from coagulating at the opening of the tube.  Also, it seals well. All in all, great job, Missha!

Formulation

It’s not clear gel, like how I expected it would be, but rather, its composition is similar to that of a lotion. It is white and all, but it is not runny. I was relieved when I found out that it’s not sticky, too, as it doesn’t take much to blend well on the skin.

Its scent is somewhat powdery, but very subtle. I’m guessing that you won’t notice the scent when you apply it on your skin. Since the scent is too subtle, it doesn’t linger for too long, but the moisturizing effect stays on for hours! Got to love that! 





Cost Efficiency

Missha is a rather expensive cosmetic brand for us Filipinos. This sun gel, for instance, costs around 13 USD, which converts to around Php 560.00. It’s expensive, but if you’re really up for a sun gel that is non-sticky, non-greasy, and light on the skin, this could be the product you’re looking for. Of course, this comes with a price.

RATING:

·         Packaging – 4.5 (absence of English translations)
·         Formulation – 5
·         Cost Efficiency – 4.5
Average Rating: 4.70 out of 5.00

Pros:
  • ·         Well formulated
  • ·         Moisturizes
  • ·         Protects
  • ·         Non-sticky and non-greasy
  • ·         Easy to use and very handy
  • ·         Light on the skin

Cons:

  • ·         Too pricey for daily use
  • ·         No English translations printed on the tube
  • ·         The manufacturing date is difficult to make out of (not really clear)


Repurchase?

Maybe not. I think it's good, but it's missing the 'wow' factor that would make me want to buy another one. 

What do you think of this post? Don't be shy! Post your comments below!

Love,


Newbee



[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product at her own expense. Please note that the reviews are not by any chance made by an expert on makeup and skincare; these reviews are all based on the author’s limited knowledge, thoughts, and opinions. 
If you have beauty products that you’d like me to review, let me know!  
Need advertising space? This blog is also open for advertising. Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com

Review: Missha All Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel SPF30 PA++