Showing posts with label review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label review. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Months ago, I was in dire need of a good sunblock. I figured that I needed at least an SPF30, because my job involves lots of outdoor tasks. I had a few tubes in my stash, but I admit I hated using them. It's either they're too sticky (and gross), or too smelly. There's one sunblock scent that I swear I could associate with poop! 

But despite all those complaints, I simply can't eliminate sunblock from my daily skincare routine. I have to find a good one that I could stick to. 

If you've been visiting Watson's in the past few months, you'd notice that there would be at least one salesperson who would sales talk you (in a good way, of course) into purchasing a sunblock you've never heard of. My mom bought one when she visited Watson's once; my dad got another, too; and, eventually, me, who was just casually browsing for a potential sunblock. 

Believe me, neither one of us knew that the other had the same sunblock. I must say, these salespeople are good! 

So, what did I buy? Read on...

I got the GT Carrot Lotion 4 in 1 Anti-Aging Formula SPF60 in 100ml. 


GT appears to be a new brand in the market, and it's a Filipino brand, too! So far, I've only noticed this product in Watson's shelves. I heard they are available in certain department stores as well.


Packaging

Obviously, GT utilized the tube-type packaging for this product. It's the norm among sunblocks/sunscreens, and probably the best choice to house such. So, I have no complaints on it. The expiration date is also embedded on the tube, so there are no worries over using products that are way past their expiration date.

Formulation

The lotion is somewhat runny, and it has an 'orangey' undertone to it. No worries, though, because the 'orange' tone transforms into a white cast once it blends into the skin. Hence, the so-called whitening effect comes into play. Think of it more as a concealer, and not a 'whitening and brightening' product.

However, I don't quite like the whitening effect of this lotion, because it looks too artificial for me. For one, it doesn't come close to my skin tone. Two, it looks 'cakey' once dried. Three, it leaves white residue on the skin.

Nevertheless, these 'cons' are inevitable for an SPF60 product. You see, the higher the SPF, the whiter the cast, the greasier the formulation, and the stinkier it becomes. I guess, we're about to see a good high-SPF sunblock that don't do any of those things.

Good thing, my problem with this sunblock comes only with the 'whitening' effect. I'm glad to say that it's not greasy on the skin. It doesn't even smell awful! It smells like carrots, and I for one, love carrots!

I must say that this is probably one of the best I've tried in the SPF60 range. Good job, GT!


Effectiveness

This lotion is definitely NOT a whitening product; it's just a concealer, which you know, conceals imperfections such as dark spots. I could tell, because it hasn't made any noticeable improvements on my skin from months of use.

I don't think it's designed to reduce wrinkles, too. Unless of course, you'd count sun protection as its anti-ageing property, which is by the way, what sunblocks are for. Sun exposure accelerates skin ageing; so, it's always better to use sun protection whenever possible.

Since I'm fair-skinned, I easily get sunburns, and I know a good sun protection product when I use one. And this product does an excellent job at that.


Rating:

Packaging: 5.00 out of 5.00
Formulation: 3.00 out of 5.00
Effectiveness: 4.00 out of 5.00

Overall: 4.00 out of 5.00

This cheap product sure promises a lot, but I'm glad it was able to deliver more than what I could pay for.

Pros:

  • Packaging contains information that consumers might want to look into (e.g. expiration date, ingredients, etc.)
  • Available in most stores (e.g Watsons, local department stores, drugstores)
  • Excellent sun protection
  • Conceals imperfections
  • Smells like carrots! 
  • Cheap at Php 215.00 (approximate) 
  • Non-greasy
Cons: 
  • Doesn't whiten the skin
  • Leaves a white cast on the skin
  • Flakey and cakey when dried
  • Available in only one shade 
Repurchase?

Yes, I will! 

That's all for today's review.

Do you have a favorite sunblock/sunscreen? 

Please do comment below!

Love,


Newbee Marie



[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) purchased the said product using her own money. 

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: GT Carrot Lotion 4 in 1 Anti-Aging Formula SPF60 (100ml)

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

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, June 6, 2014

Hi there!

Today, I’ll be reviewing two hair care products from one of our favorite Korean brands, Skinfood.

Everyone, meet:

Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo and Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner



 These babies were bought separately, but I decided to present the reviews in one blog post.


According to the packaging:

Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo

A shampoo that contains nourishing argan oil and silk to transform dry, damaged hair into healthy, shiny tresses.

Directions: Wet hair and scalp with lukewarm water. Lather up and massage into hair. Rinse off thoroughly.


Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner

A conditioner that contains nourishing argan oil and silk to transform dry, damaged hair into healthy, shiny tresses.

Directions: After shampooing, squeeze out excess water. Pour an ample amount into palm. Apply evenly to hair, avoiding scalp and focusing on ends. After 1-2 minutes, rinse of thoroughly with lukewarm water.  


In other words, these two products are for dry and damaged hair. Mine is dry and damaged, too. Let’s see if these two babies could keep up with their promises.

MY EXPERIENCE/IMPRESSIONS

Packaging

I have no qualms about the packaging. Both products are extremely gorgeous, and uniquely designed. Who would have thought that a shampoo (and conditioner) bottle would look like fancy syrup jars? These jars, by the way, are made of some sort of plastic. They’re cute and handy, nonetheless. Not to mention that the pumps work perfectly just fine; a couple of pumps, at most, is all you need to have your hair covered.


While 400g may sound like a lot of product, it is conveniently packed in these gorgeous containers. In addition, the batch code, manufacturing date, and expiry date were all printed on the bottle.

Although both products didn’t come in with a box, for me, it doesn’t really matter. It serves its purpose just the way it is. Both bottles contain product descriptions and directions in English, which is very, very important for us who couldn’t understand Korean. Also, the labels are waterproof and they don’t come off easily even though you leave them at the bathroom.

Formulation

The Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo is just like your typical shampoo; color is close to a shade of yellow, and it’s somewhat runny. It smells okay, because the fragrance is really subtle.

If you’re looking for a shampoo with a scent that would last for a couple of hours or more, this may not be for you. Scent is only good for half an hour, or probably less.

Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo


The Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner, just like the shampoo, is not something special.  It’s your typical creamy conditioner, and it smells just fine. Also, just like the shampoo, its fragrance doesn’t last long – half an hour, at most.

Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner
I have tried both the shampoo and conditioner for over two months now, and sadly, both didn’t live up to my expectations. In my opinion, the two products didn’t improve the appearance of my hair; it’s still frizzy, and all. Plus, I think the formulation has not prevented (or possibly, caused) itching and flaking on my scalp. I know it’s disgusting, but it’s really something to think about before buying this.

One thing I love about it though, is that didn’t dry out my hair; some shampoos do, and create a disaster on my already-ruined hair. However, I’ve seen other shampoos (and conditioners) do a better job than this. The Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo and Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner are not bad, and they’re not great either.  In other words, there’s nothing really special about them.

Cost Efficiency

I’ve been using these since April 2014 - that’s roughly around 2 months; I would say that the 400g worth of shampoo and 400g worth of conditioner could go a long way. I guess I could finish up the bottles in a month, and that’s not bad. Three months’ worth of product is just a LOT!

However, if you’d ask me, I would rather go for a cheaper alternative. Skinfood Shampoo and even Conditioner, costs quite a fortune, and I could hardly see the benefits that I want to see. Yes, it is a lot of product, it is somewhat costly and it’s not readily available here in the Philippines. I was expecting a lot more from Skinfood, but I guess that’s all there is to it. Maybe it is meant to suit Korean hair, unlike mine, which is, you know, Filipina.

RATING:

·         Packaging  - 5.00 out of 5.00
·         Formulation – 4.50 out of 5.00
·         Cost Efficiency – 3.70 out of 5.00

Average Rating: 4.40 out of 5.00

Pros:
  • ·         Excellent packaging
  • ·         Easy to lather and apply on to hair
  • ·         A little product goes a long way
  • ·         Doesn't dry out your hair

Cons:
  • ·         Didn't prevent flaking or itching/ Caused flaking and itching (to be verified)
  • ·         Expensive at around Php700 per 400g bottle (to be verified)
  • ·         No visible improvements on hair

Repurchase? I guess I’ll take a pass on this one. I've seen better alternatives.

Have you ever used this before?

Post your comments below! J

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: Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo (400g) and Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo Conditioner (400g)

Sunday, February 23, 2014

The Face Shop Arsainte Eco-Therapy Extreme Moisture Gift Set comes with a Tonic (20ml), a Serum with Essential (10ml), a Daily Moisturizer (20ml), and an Essential Cream (10ml). I got this as a freebie, which is why I have no idea how much it really costs. Sorry about that.



Let’s start with the review, shall we?

First Impressions

When I first opened the package, I actually considered throwing it away. The box looks worn out, and the contents look old, too. I don’t know about you, but when I first saw it, I had this bad feeling that the set must at least be an old stock, or worse, expired stock. I bet you can’t blame me; the box was not sealed, and contents weren’t also.

Plus, the contents look peculiar. Who would think at first look, that these solutions look normal? It’s obviously a demulsification of a liquid from oil. Normally, if you have a cosmetic, which shows some sort of demulsification after a considerable amount of time, you’d throw it away – right away.

But, the expiration date at the bottom of each container implies otherwise…

The printed expiration date led me to believe that the contents and the packaging looked old, because they are in-line with the eco-friendly campaign. However, because of its peculiar looks, I tucked it away for a couple of months and decided to try other skincare sets from Etude and Skinfood. I admit it; fancy packaging does influence my decisions on which skin care products to use. Etude’s and Skinfood’s are much fancier than the eco-friendly themes.

After I exhausted my Etude House and Skinfood Skincare Sets for about four months, I finally found myself ready for The Face Shop’s Arsainte Skincare products. Certainly, I had my doubts, but these were finally dispelled when the Internet disproved my suspicions. The demulsification and the ‘old-stock-look’ are part of the norms of the Arsainte set. Search it several times over the Internet, and you’ll definitely know what I mean.

Scent

One look and you’ll probably think of bamboo when you see the Arsainte Set. That’s what I first thought of, too. However, the scent is much closer to lemongrass; sorry, but I think it’s somewhat disgusting, because it’s overwhelming. Bamboo would have been much better. If you don’t have issues with lemongrass scents, then, it’s probably for you. The scent lingers for a while on your face though; so, think it through before finally deciding to purchase it. I hate the scent but I figured it became tolerable for me in the long run. In case you’d like to know, I have been using this set for almost a month now.

Formulation

Tonic with Essential


It’s water-like, except for the obvious traces of oil on top. When I tried applying it to my face, it was very easy to do so. Surprisingly, the ‘demulsified’ solution doesn’t create problems at all. It creates a pleasant texture on my face, making it softer and suppler. I figured that this particular tonic has some sort of cooling effects, too.

Serum with Essential
I love the container that it comes with. It’s easy to dispense, and it’s foolproof.


The serum comes in clear and watery foam. It’s easy to apply too. All you need is about a pump or two, for each facial application. I couldn’t exactly tell what it does, but it improvises the appearance of my skin.

Daily Moisturizer
It’s a white cream and the consistency is like runny lotion. It moisturizes well, too.





Essential Cream
If you have extra dry skin, this should do the trick. Its consistency is somewhat similar to a combination of a lotion and a cream. It takes a while to dry though, possibly 30 seconds or more, but it creates an extra dewy and flawless look.





Effects

I was actually surprised by how well this particular set works. It surely reminds me of the Collagen Skincare line by Etude House.

Repurchase?

Maybe. I’m sticking to Etude’s Collagen line for now, but this would be a good alternative, should I encounter problems with my all-time favorites from EH’s Collagen Skincare line. I guess Skinfood will have to be the second alternative.

Rating

4.50 out of 5.00 – Good, but not good enough to become my HG.

That's all.  I hope you'll find your HGs soon.

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: The Face Shop Arsainte Eco-Therapy Extreme Moisture Gift Set

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Everybody loves to take a bath and I’m pretty sure you do, too.

Today, I’ll be reviewing another Korean product: The Etude House Milk Talk Body Wash in Strawberry.



Basically, this particular Etude product has been in the market for quite some time now. I’m also pretty sure that I’m not the first blogger to review this particular body wash; for all I know, there are a couple or more of them who shared their experiences through the blogosphere.

Anyway, Etude released five variants of this particular body wash. Aside from Strawberry, the Etude Milk Talk Body Wash is also available in: Chocolate, Banana, Apple, and Steam Milk.

How lovely is that?

Among the five variants, I chose strawberry because I just love strawberry.

Packaging

I bought this online and based everything on what was posted by the seller; I had the vaguest idea on what the real thing would actually look like.  The words ‘strawberry’ and ‘milk’ surely pulled my strings. Not to mention that the packaging was extremely adorable.

Looking back, I imagined a full sized milk bottle with lots of body wash liquid in it. However, when it was delivered, I was really disappointed. The bottle was tiny, possibly half the size of a full-sized milk bottle. I guess I expected too much from it.


In case you’re wondering, the ‘bottle’ is made of plastic, and the labels are somewhat waterproof. The labels won’t come off easily. So, don’t worry.


It’s pretty easy to dispense, too. It’s not too special, but not complicated either.


Scent

I love strawberries because they smell great – at least the real fruits though. Whenever I buy strawberry-inspired cosmetics, I usually associate the natural strawberry fragrance to what I buy, which means that for this particular review, the scent really matters for me.

So how was the Etude House Milk Talk Body Wash’s Scent?

Disgusting.

The word may sound a little too mean, but it was the first thing that came into my mind when I first opened the packaging. Sorry, Etude. The strawberry scent was too artificial for my standards. Basically, it was not my type of scent, but it was tolerable.  

Body Wash?

I do have issues with its scent, but the liquid itself has redeeming factors that are worth looking into:

  •  I appreciate the formulation of this wash. It is somewhat creamy and has a consistent formulation. I also love how it actually looks like. It’s like an improvised version of strawberry cream;
  •  It lathers well and a little goes a long way. A bottle would possibly last you a month.
  •  It moisturizes. Yes, it really does, and it should maintain your skin’s moisture for as long as 24 hours. Mine did.
  •  The scent doesn’t last long. Try it on, and a couple of minutes after that, the scent will disappear. This is a relief, at least for me though.

Repurchase?

Maybe, but definitely not the strawberry variant anymore. I hate the scent.

I’m actually eyeing on Chocolate or Apple.

Rating

4.00 out of 5.00. Good, but not good enough to become my HG body wash.

You know of a good body wash? Please do share 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. 




Review: The Etude House Milk Talk Body Wash in Strawberry

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