Showing posts with label brightening. Show all posts
Showing posts with label brightening. Show all posts

Sunday, June 22, 2014

It’s time for another review!

Today, we’ll be talking about… UGH… snails and snail slime in particular.

In case you haven’t heard, snail slime is a trend in the beauty industry, particularly in Japan and Korea. Search all over the internet, and sources will lead you to information about such. 

Who would have thought that snail mucus could help moisturize the skin and reduce wrinkles?

If you’re not too keen about using ‘pure’ snail mucus on your face, but you’re very much interested in improving your skin’s appearance, don’t fret. Our favorite Korean brands are in the process of improvising some of their skin care products with snail slime, one after another. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the yucky stuff – you won’t even know snail slime is there. 

Having said all that, let me introduce you to:

Nature Republic Snail Solution Mask Sheet



This is actually a sample. A few months back, I was given 10 of these for purchasing quite a number of Korean cosmetics online. I was skeptical, too, but I figured that it was worth a try. It’s from Nature Republic, after all, and so far, I've been loving products from Nature Republic. I needed facial masks, too.

I have been using these sheet masks for about 1-2 times a week in the past few months. This is my last piece, by the way. I just think that it would be a waste if I won’t be able to share this with you. 

How to use (as indicated on the packaging):

1)      After applying toner, pull out mask sheet from package and unfold
2)      Apply the mask sheet onto the face from the lower (chin) part of the mask and move upward towards the forehead
3)      Remove mask sheet after 10-15 minutes
4)      Gently pat any remaining formula into skin.

Caution: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes and mouth. Discontinue use if signs of irritation or rashes appear. Keep out of reach of children.

MY EXPERIENCE/IMPRESSIONS

Packaging

Obviously, there’s nothing special about its packaging. The sheet mask pouch is a common choice among sheet mask manufacturers, but I really appreciate that it contains text in English, too. Also, they printed the expiry date and batch code on the pouch. I have no qualms whatsoever. Despite its simplicity, the packaging has served its function well - no spills and completely airtight.



Formulation

Imagine a sticky gel. Yep, the essence is similar to that of a sticky gel, but I don’t think the appearance of the essence comes close to snail mucus. The essence looks artificial to me. Also, the scent is very pleasant and doesn't smell gross at all.

The mask is cool to the touch, and feels somewhat refreshing when applied.  If you’re in for a quick pampering, then, I think this mask is perfect for you! A word of caution, though, you might want to fall asleep when you put this on, because it is very relaxing and refreshing.


Effectiveness

For a sample, this product has done quite a lot for me. For one, it moisturized my face really, really well. Turns out that every time I use this, I get that extra smooth skin texture; your stressed skin would definitely transform. Mine did! Yours might as well. Also, the effect lasts for about two days! I often get compliments because of this!

Honestly, this mask has improved my skin a lot since I first used this; my skin has become extra smooth and firm, thanks to this baby!

Did I mention that it improves your face for the long term?

Yes! Use this once to twice a week for months, and you’ll definitely see improvements. I did, even for a measly 10 sheets of masks. I’m definitely buying more of these!

Is it really worth buying?

In my opinion, yes! I’m in love with this thing, and I don’t really mind spending my money on this. It relieves my stress, too. For around Php 100 each, it does quite a lot. It’s effective on improving the appearance and texture on my skin, and it gives me temporary relief from stress. I’ve tried a lot of masks before, and this is simply one of the best there is.

RATING:

·         Packaging 5.00 out of 5.00
·         Formulation 5.00 out of 5.00
·         Cost Efficiency 5.00 out of 5.00

Average Rating: 5.00 out of 5.00

Pros:

·         Significantly improves the texture and appearance of my facial skin
·         Scent is mild and pleasant
·         Very refreshing and relaxing when applied on the face
·         Regular use of this mask could help improve the skin for the long haul

Cons:

·         None

Repurchase?

Yes! Not so many masks out there could live up to what this mask could do, at a very affordable price.

Obviously, the Nature Republic Snail Solution Sheet Mask would go to my list of HGs as well.

Two thumbs up for Nature Republic! J

Leave a comment below and let me know what you think!

Love,

Newbee

[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) obtained the said products as free gifts for purchasing several products from one store. 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: Nature Republic Snail Solution Mask Sheet in 20g

Friday, May 30, 2014


Climate Change…

Global Warming…

Sounds trouble, right? I bet you agree with me on this one.

These phenomena could potentially bring troubles to our skin, and we need extra protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

When I turned 25 last year, I decided to add a new skin care regimen to address this threat. I wish I had done this ages ago, but I admit I was too naïve by then, despite the constant reminder from my mom to take good care of my skin as damages cannot be easily repaired. I was extremely disobedient, and now I’m trying to catch up for what I should have done years and years ago.

What is the best sunscreen/sunblock for me?

My dear readers, I have the same concern as well, which is why, I decided to use this blog as a platform for my quest for the perfect sunscreen/sunblock, and of course other beauty products that work for us.

To start with, let me introduce you to Nivea Sun Whitening Immediate Sun Protection Collagen Protect in 75ml. Pretty lengthy name, huh?

My Nivea Sun, after a month of daily use

According to its packaging, Nivea Sun Whitening Immediate Sun Protection Collagen Protect:
  • ·         Whitens (with Active Whitening Complex)
  • ·         Protects skin from the sun (SPF30)
  • ·         Is non-sticky
  • ·         Is water-resistant
  • ·         Moisturizes
  • ·         Protects the skin’s collagen

My Experience

I have been using this product for over a couple of months now, and I could say that it is indeed non-sticky and somehow moisturizing. I couldn’t attest to the whitening effect though, because ever since I’ve been using this, I couldn’t see any changes to my skin color. You see, I also have a fine line on my arms that seem emphasize the unevenness of my skin tone, from the exposed parts of my skin to the unexposed parts. And yes, it’s still there, and it’s very evident. Then, maybe, the Active Whitening Complex may not be effective at all, or may be, I have to be extra patient and apply it on a daily basis for a couple of months more to see the results.

More info at the back of the bottle...
This product claims to be a water-resistant sunscreen. However, I don’t really mind if it’s water-resistant or not, because if I were to use a sunscreen on a beach, I would certainly opt for an SPF50 or higher. SPF30 is too low, and I wouldn’t use it on beach activities or the like, hence, there’s really no need for it to be water resistant; unless, of course, if you’re sweating profusely on a daily basis in normal circumstances, but in my case, it really doesn’t matter.

Also, if you’d be using this for the first time, don’t squeeze too much. You might end up with too much product to use on your hands. Yes, the lotion is somewhat runny. I found it a bit peculiar to use at first, but I came to appreciate it somehow. Runny somewhat translates to “blends well”.

See? Runny
What I love most about this product is that it makes me feel confident that I am protected from the sun’s harmful rays. I could tell because the heat from sun doesn’t sting anymore. Whereas, when I'm not putting any sunscreen on, I could always feel the scorching heat and my skin seems to react harshly.

Did I mention it’s really affordable? I forgot the exact price, but I figured that it’s really worth it.

Rating

If it’s for daily use, I would rate this product as 4.70 out of 5.00.

Pros
  • ·         Protects with SPF30 (good for daily use)
  • ·         Non-sticky and non-greasy
  • ·         Dries quickly
  • ·         Very affordable
  • ·         Available locally (e.g. Watsons)
  • ·         Water-resistant


Cons
  • ·         It didn’t whiten my skin at all
  • ·         The lotion is somewhat runny.


According to the sticker placed right at the opening of the bottle, Nivea is the World’s no.1 Sun Care Brand. So far and as far as I’m concerned, it delivered most of its promises, but sadly, I can’t really attest if it is indeed the best there is because I only used a handful of sunblock/sunscreens just yet.

Do you think Nivea is the World’s No.1 Sun Care? Why?

Nivea, as the world's number one sun care brand? 

Also, can you recommend a good sunblock/sunscreen?

Please post 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: Nivea Sun Whitening Immediate Sun Protection Collagen Protect in 75ml

Saturday, February 8, 2014

Valentine’s Day is just around a corner; so, I assume that everyone wants to be pretty on that special day. In my case, I want to be pretty every day, which is why I try not to skip my mask routine every week. I do it 2-3 times a week, whenever I get the chance. I think of it as some sort of reward for doing all stressful things at home, at work, and even at school.

Speaking of masks, today’s review would be about another mask pack – the Baviphat Strawberry Toxifying Mask in 130g.



If you’ve been following my blog, you should know by now that I’m such a crazy fan for super cute packaging. Yes, I bought this baby mainly because it’s so darn cute. Who could resist a strawberry inspired jar? Not me. Definitely, not me.


I bought it from a small boutique in Davao City at a little more than Php 500, I guess. I’m so sorry; I could hardly remember how much it was worth four months ago.

Php 500+ for a 130g product with an insanely cute jar? I believe it’s a steal.

It's a strawberry sticking out! How cute is that? 

I should warn you though. Due to the extra packaging features, the jar is relatively heavier than most cosmetic jars in the market. The ‘strawberry’ seemed to take most of its bulk, but in my case, it’s just fine. After all, I only use this particular mask at home. I use sheet masks when I travel, so the bulky strawberry is no biggie for me at all. I hope it wouldn't bring any problems to you, too.

Packaging comes with an extra cover and a cute spoon! 
Scent

It looks like strawberry, but does it smell like strawberry?

The pink creamy substance will definitely remind you of strawberries! 
A resounding yes, it is!

I, for one, love its sweet strawberry scent. It doesn’t smell too artificial, unlike those other strawberry-inspired cosmetics I used in the past.

Definitely soft and creamy, but don't eat it! 
The scent may be overpowering when you first open the package, but don’t worry, the scent will eventually dissipate. First few applications would reveal a hint of strawberry, but soon enough, you’ll definitely forget about it. The strawberry scent only lingers for a while, and it’s not even an irritating smell, at least for my part.

Texture

It’s soft and creamy, and like most masks, it’s pretty easy to spread. However, it would start to solidify after a few minutes, so when you put this mask on, do it fast! Wait, not so fast, but relatively fast

A few seconds after application. Also shows the coverage of the 'spooned' product

It’s not a peel-off mask, but it solidifies anyway. I think it helps with tightening your pores, or something like that. Instructions indicate that you will have to put it on for 20 to 25 minutes before washing it off.


Taking it off

Most wash off packs are relatively difficult to wash off. This one, unfortunately, is not an exception at all, and if you’re clumsy enough, you might end up in a messy situation. I've been there, and it’s particularly difficult for me not to be messy whenever I use this. After all, when it comes in contact with water, it binds with the water then creates a texture similar to watery paint. 

I suggest washing it off at least two to three times, and check regularly for white residues, especially along the contours around the nose.
Solidifies a few minutes after application

Results

Good. My rating would probably fall in 4.00 out 5.00, which is not bad at all. I appreciate it because it helps my face look and feel squeaky clean and soft. To add, I think it has significantly reduced my acne and my red spots, but then again, the results are only temporary – I guess for only four hours or more? Nonetheless, it’s worth a try.

Not bad, but I think it would take more for it to fully land as an HG. It surely is nice, but I think I’ll not repurchase this for a while.

I guess that sums it all up.

Do you have any comments on this particular post? Please let me know. Feel free to post them below.

Enjoy your day everyone!


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. 




Review: Baviphat Strawberry Toxifying Mask

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

I love bath products, and I would love them even more if they’re from my favorite Korean brands. So, if you’ve been following my blog for quite some time now, you would notice that I just love Skin79! This time, I’ll review on Skin79 Special Set, which consists of Peeling Gel, Body Wash and Facial Cleanser.


I bought this particular set online at Php 860.00, which is pretty expensive for three different products in ‘mini’ 30-ml tubes. I bought it anyway, hoping to find something good for my skin. After all, it’s the only Skin79 product which has a body wash in it, and I needed a good ‘travel set’.

A body wash, a peeling gel, and a facial cleanser in one set sounds good enough.

If you’re familiar with Skin79, you will notice that it doesn’t carry brands other than makeup and facial care products. Well, this particular set is an exception. This is the only Skin79 body wash, why would I skip this opportunity?                

Let’s start with Skin79’s body wash, shall we?

Skin79 Special Set: Moisture Body Wash

Apologies if I can’t supply you with photos of this product. I already ran out of it, like ages ago.
Based on what I remember, the body wash lathers well; better than most body washes in the market, but I believe it’s not the best there is. Its texture is close to typical Korean facial cleansing foams; think of Missha and Apieu.

I also found out that it is extremely moisturizing and mild to the skin. It also gives your skin a luxurious feel to it.

Yes, the tube is tiny. As a matter of fact, I only used it for about three times. Yeah, that’s the sad part. (Explains why I don’t have an actual photo of it). So, I couldn’t say much about this stuff only that it’s moisturizing. Not much.

Skin79 Special Clear Set: Gentle Peeling Gel

The first peeling gel I’ve ever used was the Skin79 Crystal Peeling Gel, which promises to remove the impurities and dead skin cells from your face after every use. I loved it and used it weekly for a little more than a year. I think it significantly reduced my acne. I also think that it made my skin clearer and brighter.

Skin79 Crystal Peeling Gel


The Peeling Gel, which was included in the Skin79 Special Set, is very similar to the Skin79 Crystal Peeling Gel. Truth be told, I think this is the Crystal Peeling Gel in a different packaging, but unfortunately, I have nothing to compare it with. I mean, I ran out of Crystal Peeling Gel years ago. However, just like the Crystal Peeling Gel, I love it so much and it’s is so effective in improving the appearance of my face. Also, I think a little of this product could go a long way as well.

Honestly, I was very happy to have this in my ‘Travel Kit’.

Skin79 Special Clear Set: Creamy Foam Cleansing

I haven’t tried any cleansers from Skin79, because normally, they could cost twice as much as those other Korean cleansers. However, thanks to the Special Set, I was able to try one. I must say that I’m pretty impressed with this cleanser. Just like the body wash, it’s moisturizing and mild to the skin. Honestly, I feel like I’m a notch prettier whenever I use this. Most of all, I think it prevents acne as well. I’ve been using this for months now. Meaning, a 30-ml tube such as this could go a long way as well.

Way to go Skin79!

My Verdict

Overall, I think this is a good product, only that it’s a bit pricey. I think I should rate it a 4.00 out of 5.00.

I wish the ‘set’ would just come in pairs – one tube for peeling gel and one tube for cleansing foam. I’d hate to say it, but the body wash was a waste of packaging. I mean, one tube for about 3-5 uses only, then the tube goes to the trash bin. I think each tube delivers what it promises, though. Nonetheless, I hope Skin79 would release a full-sized body wash. I’ll definitely buy it!

Have you tried this particular set before, too? How was it?

Please share your experiences in the comment section.

Thank you and have a great day!


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. 

Review: Skin79 Special Clear Set (Moisture Body Wash, Creamy Foam Cleansing, and Gentle Peeling Gel)

Wednesday, December 25, 2013

I checked my cosmetics collection once again, only to find out that I’m running out of Nature Republic A-Kit Wash from the Nature Republic The Salon Body Esthe A-Fit Kit. I decided that before I use up everything, I should at least give you an idea on what it is, and how it works.

Stock Photo for Nature Republic The Salon Body Esthe A-Fit Kit

Last month, I decided to buy this kit on a whim, together with the Tonymoly Floria Pore-Tightening Cleansing Foam. I have never tried the Nature Republic brand before, and neither Tonymoly. Both purchases were a first for me and both were bought online. Unfortunately, Tonymoly was a bad purchase, as I mentioned in my blog post here.

Luckily, Nature Republic’s A-Kit performed way better than I imagined.

Read on if you’d like to know why.


Actual photos of my Nature Republic A-Fit Kit (after a month of regular use)
Close Look

The said kit contains two tubes: one is the A-Fit Wash 80ml and the other is the A-Fit Clear Cream in 50ml.



Nature Republic A-Fit Wash

According to its description, it is a mild scrub that could exfoliate the armpit; it promises to make your skin smoother and silkier. Most of all, it is said to be mineral oil-free, alcohol-free, synthetic dye-free, GMO-free and BSE-free.


The A-Fit Wash: Almost looks like facial cleanser


Nature Republic A-Fit Clear Cream

The A-Fit Clear Cream, on the other hand promises to whiten and moisturize the underarms. It also promises to minimize its pores and control odor; and just like the A-Fit wash, the cream is said to be mineral oil-free, alcohol-free, synthetic dye-free, GMO-free and BSE-free.

The A-Fit Cream

My Experience

I bought it at around 500 pesos (excluding shipping) online, and with two tubes at 50ml and 80ml, I initially thought that it was a great steal. It indeed was.

 The Wash

The Wash is like a mild facial cleanser, in terms of texture and consistency, and surprisingly, it doesn’t look like facial scrub at all. It lathers well, and a small amount of the wash should go a long way. Not much is needed, but it’s really good. I’m pretty satisfied with it.

However, I am quite suspicious with its composition. The ads tell me that it’s supposedly paraben-free etc., but not much has been said in its original packaging. Sadly, almost all of the texts written are in Korean. Please correct me if I’m wrong; I’m not a chemist or anything like that, but something tells me that the ad must be misleading us. For instance, it’s supposedly synthetic dye-free, but I could clearly see that the wash has some sort of a light green color to it. Would it be possible to achieve that kind of appearance without the use of synthetic chemicals?

If you’re sensitive enough, you might smell the light fragrance of the wash; the fragrance is somewhat close to baby powder, but it goes away as soon as you lather it with water.

The Cream

The cream looks just like your typical cream. It’s white and creamy.  Just like the wash, it smells like baby powder, too. The baby powder fragrance lingers though, because obviously, you don’t have to wash the cream right after application.


I've been using this kit for a while now, especially the wash because I decided I would not use my bath soap on my underarms anymore. Just like how I decided to stop using bath soap on my face, because cleansers are much much better to use. I figured that the skin on my armpits reacted really well to the A-kit solution. It’s somewhat embarrassing to elaborate the details here, but I could really attest that after regular use (daily, sometimes, twice a day), I realized that my armpits have:

                *lesser bumps
                *smaller pores
                *lighter complexion

As for the cream, it’s pretty good too, but I’m too lazy to put it on after washing. I sometimes use it instead of my beloved anti-perspirant, but somehow, it feels kind of wrong to do so. You guessed it right: me and my irrational senses, sometimes get in the way. After all, it wasn't marketed as an antiperspirant, so there’s no reason for me to stick to it during daytime. Also, I heard that the cream could cause some stains on your clothing, so better think twice before using it. I never had any personal experience with the cream staining my clothes, but it’s possible. In most cases, I use the cream on nighttime, when I’m about to sleep; it’s more comfortable that way.

My Verdict

I love it and it’s a 4.50 out of 5.00. I didn't give it a perfect rating because it lacked English texts, but I’ll continue using it. As a matter of fact, I already bought two kits so that I won’t have to worry running out of this thing in the near future.

So, I guess that’s all for now. I hope you learned something from this post.

Happy holidays to everyone!


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. 


Review: Nature Republic The Salon Body Esthe A-Fit Kit (A-Fit Wash and A-Fit Clear Cream)

Sunday, December 15, 2013

Stock Photo

Ever since I tried Korean products on my skin, I never looked back. Most Korean skincare and makeup products are just so effective that in the past couple of years I have successfully accumulated my own Korean cosmetic collection. I am loyal to most Skin79 products, but I also love Etude House, Missha and The Face Shop, just to name a few. Last November, I decided to give Tonymoly a try. I know the said Korean brand has been around for a while, but I had to try some other brands before finally ending up with Tonymoly. Last November, I ran out of my Skin79 foaming cleanser and I figured that I really needed a replacement right away.

While casually browsing for beauty stuff on Ebay, I stumbled upon a cheaply priced Korean cleanser – the Tonymoly Floria Pore Tightening Cleanser. It’s sold at around Php 300, so I bought it without having any second thoughts. After all, my Skin79 cleansers are all worth twice as much, or even more.

I never had any bad experiences with any Korean brands before, so this should be good too, right?

I was about to find out.

Actual photo of product

Actual product

First impressions?
After completing the checkout process, my purchased item arrived at my doorstep in a couple of days. I was pleasantly surprised to find a ‘large tube’ for something so cheap. To add, the packaging doesn’t look cheap at all. Its glossy aquamarine packaging is also something that’s just too irresistible. The actual cleansing foam’s color is almost the same with the packaging, which is actually kind of cute. The consistency seems great and the texture is all right as well. The fragrance, though, is more on the artificial side, so some people may not like it. Like most bloggers, I was kind of disappointed with its smell; I expected a more natural flowery fragrance, but I guess I must have been expecting too much from it.

How was it?

First of all, I would have to explain how to use it. It’s important that the product should be lathered on the hand first prior to applying it on your face. As the popular saying goes, a little goes a long way. In my case, I had to use lesser than the pea-sized amount.

List of ingredients



The cleanser is kind of easy to lather. A pea-sized amount should be able to give you a rich lather or so.


Sadly, this product didn’t live to what I expected.

1.       The solution stung as soon as I applied it on my skin; and it’s the worst I’ve had ever since I could remember. I thought it was kind of strange because I don’t have problematic skin. I rarely have acne and pimples, and I often thought that it’s kind of impossible for me to feel a strong stinging sensation from a mere foam cleanser, such as this product, but I felt it anyway and I hated it. The stinging sensation even lingered for a few minutes even after rinsing it with water. And please note that I just used a “smaller than the pea-sized” amount.

2.       My skin stretched out like there’s no tomorrow, so this tells me that this product is loaded with strong ingredients. I do admit that its product description included the following, but I failed to read it prior to testing the cleanser:
Take note: STRONG pore tightening effects
3.       It caused me breakouts, and a very angry zit at a bridge of my nose. As mentioned earlier, my skin stretched out like crazy, and it seems that every time I use this cleanser, the ‘extra skin’ along the areas around my eyes and nose seem to ‘convene’ right at the very spot where the zit appeared. I know it sounds funny but it really happened. The very same spot was red and unsightly for weeks.

4.       The very same ugly results even after using it a few more times. Yes, I did give this product a few more chances but it turns out that the stinging sensation, the strong tightening effects, and the breakouts seem to build up even more every time I use it. So, it’s definitely a no-no for me. And if I may add, it doesn’t ‘tighten pores’ at all. It merely stretches out your skin and then, the effect’s gone.

Sadly, I regret buying it. I know it was cheap and cute, and all, but in my case, it’s not worth it. It was a horrible experience. It’s my first time to try a Tonymoly product, and it turned out to be a disaster. I may want to try some of its products soon, but only if there’s a sale, or a set of samples.

Sorry, Tonymoly. L

So, the rating is 2.00 out of 5.00. The extra two points are for the cute packaging and the 130ml product at a very low price.

What do you think?

Have you ever used this product before? What do you think of it?

Do you think I used it incorrectly?

Please post your answers, comments, questions and recommendations below.





[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. 






Review: The Tonymoly Floria Pore-Tightening Foaming Cleanser

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Hello everyone!


Stock photo

Today, I’ll be reviewing about Skin79’s Lemon Brightening Mask in 75 ml. I decided to give this one a rating sooner than every other product I listed, because I guess this will be the first among the products in my list to run out. I think a couple of uses more, and I’m all out of a brightening mask. So, here are the snapshots on what the actual product looks like.

So, here's an up-close shot.
Sorry, a bit messy. Just used some of it earlier today. 

The box, the lid, and the jar. Forgive me for the messy photos. 


The spoon, and the yellowish substance
Notice the packaging; its design is somewhat mature and formal. The yellowish product (the mask pack) is placed inside a jar, which is made of some sort of fiber glass. The jar is kind of heavy, and I think the jar, would somehow break, if anything happens to it. It comes with a small ‘spoon’, which I think is the best beauty ‘spoon’ I’ve ever had. I think I’ll be using this ‘spoon’ frequently until it breaks. The original packaging came with a box; I still have it, but it got a few dents due to shipping and handling. Honestly, I would have preferred the product to come with a tube for easy dispensing, and for more hygienic purposes as well. On second thought, maybe the thick yellowish liquid HAS to be preserved in a fiberglass kind of jar? Maybe, just maybe. Moving on….

I’ve had this one since October 12, 2013 and I’ve been using it once, or twice a week at most. As you could see, I have a little of the product left. In my estimate, I guess a jar would be enough for a little more than 20 uses, and it depends on the frequency and the coverage. So, I think one jar could have you covered a little more than two months. I got this jar at about Php 740. That’s about Php 30 per use. Pricey, but hey! It’s still cheaper than facial sheet masks (around Php 50 each) and more definitely spa facial services (around Php 200) or more.  

First, let me tell you what facial masks are for. Facial masks are supposedly beneficial for the skin. Most facial masks I’ve seen are targeted towards specific skin issues, like acne-prone skin, dull skin, dry skin, and so on. Most people would go to a spa to pay for a good and relaxing facial. Some are trying to find some solutions to their skin troubles. I’ve tried a spa facial a lot of times before, and I personally think that spa facials are good, only that they are really pricey. For instance, the cheapest one I’ve had was worth Php 200 five years ago, and if I recalled correctly, the esthetician used a sheet mask for my face. However, not all spas resort to sheet masks, some also use mask packs. 

Mask packs, like the Skin79 Lemon Brightening Mask, can be considered great alternatives to spa facials. They can be used at the comfort of anyone’s home. There are also mask sheets available for home use; I’ve had a lot of it as well, and most of them are good. So while there are some masks that are for everyday use, there are also masks that can only be used two times per week at most. The Skin79 Lemon Brightening Mask is the latter. However, I never tried using it more than two times, and I’m not really sure what it could do for your skin if you happen to use it more than a couple of times.

As soon as I had the mask, I became so excited to try it on. So, of course, instead of trying it on right away, I had to cleanse and tone my face first, which I did. That is, to remove the impurities first so that the nutrients and other ingredients could easily penetrate the skin. So, here are closer snapshots on how the product would actually look on your skin:

Scooped some using the 'spoon'

My arm prior to application

Initial application of the product using the spoon

Showing you the coverage of the  same product I scooped earlier

First impressions? I felt rather disappointed at first. A few seconds after I spread out the thick yellowish substance on my face, my skin started to feel a stinging sensation, which is a bit annoying to me. I could only speculate that the product touched pores that were previously inhabited by acne. So, if that’s the case, I would NOT recommend this to anyone who has/had troubled skin. I could only speculate that products like this (ones with lemon mostly), could only make your skin more TROUBLESOME.

Since the description suggested putting the mask on for at least ten minutes, I complied. The mask stung for a while, and then the sensation slowly disappeared. As a matter of fact, the mask then felt like a cold gel, which is very relaxing for my part.

The Skin79 Lemon Brightening Mask is a wash-off type of mask. So after ten to fifteen minutes of putting it on, you are recommended to wash it off using lukewarm water. Honestly, I hate it when it’s about time to wash it off. I mean, the cooling and relaxing part ends here, and worst of all, the thick mask is a bit stubborn to take off. In my case, I had to wash it thoroughly, which is a rather tedious thing to do, and by the way, things could go a little messy.

Results? The hard work did pay off. After I washed it off, I felt that my skin has become smoother and silkier; my face looked brighter as well.

Will I repurchase? Maybe. As of now, I feel like I still have a lot of masks to try on; so most likely, I would end up with another one as soon as I run out of it. This product is great, but I think it’s not enough to reach Holy Grail Status.

Rating? I think it’s a 4.00 out of 5.00.

PACKAGING – Packaging is okay; it would have been great if the product came with a lighter jar. Would have been great if the jar wouldn’t break, too. However, I fell in love with the spoon.

EFFICIENCY – Initial product price is pricey and it only takes a while to consume all of it, and the results are somewhat satisfactory;

EFFECTIVENESS – It is indeed effective; the brightening mask lives up to its name;

FRAGRANCE – The fragrance is somewhat citrusy, but some other times, it reminds me of a ‘cheap’ car freshener. So, if you’re not in a healthy mood, you may not like this.

OTHERS – It stung, even for skin with very minimal acne and pimples, like mine. It’s somewhat difficult to wash off.

I guess the review ends here. If you have questions, please post them on the comment section below.

Also, please let me know if there’s a mask that you’d like to recommend.

Thanks and have a nice day ahead!

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. 



Review: Skin79 Lemon Brightening Mask