Etude House Color Lips-Fit PK003 & BE101

Aren't Sulli and Krystal great endorsement models? They stop you in your tracks and pull you in effortlessly...

Name: Etude House 에뛰드하우스 Color Lips-Fit 컬러 립스핏
Price: ₩ 9,000 for 10 g
Made in: Korea

Scents seem to be a big part of the Etude experience and this is where I will start off this review. Color Lips-Fit gives out the exact same scent as a Justea White Grape Green Tea drink (any white grape drink for those who don't have access to Justea). Even thinking about it is enough to tempt me into getting a can. You and I both know what I am buying when I pop over to the convenience store in a little while!

PK003 Fantasy Fit Pink 판타지 핏 핑크 is a pinkish imperial red.

BE101 See-Thru Fit Beige 시스루 핏 베이지 is muted pumpkin.

The colour payoff is remarkable! One swipe and you could tame the most pigmented of lips. Now, if only the colour range is more wearable, we would have a winner on our hands. The colours available are a bit too out there for my skintone although I could probably make OR201 work (that is a story for another day).

They dry completely matte – the finish that you would expect from a matte topcoat or a matte polish - thanks to the addition of Silicone Oil and Silky Powder in the formulation. I know it is completely bizarre to compare a lip tint to a nail polish but that is the first thought that came to me when I observed my reflection in the mirror.

PK003 - BE101

These tints can withstand some light snacking and a drink or two but not a full meal. They come off in patches which is not the most attractive look so do be sure to top up with a fresh layer.

An overview of all eight shades:

(Source: Promotional images are from etude.co.kr/)

Disclosure: Pink Bird samples.

Etude House Moistfull Super Collagen First Trial Kit

For the first time, Etude House captured my heart with their skincare remedies. And at only ₩ 2,000 a pop on etudehouse.com, you have nothing to lose if you decide to give it a look!

(Source: etude.co.kr/)

Name: Etude House 에뛰드하우스 Moistfull Super Collagen First Trial Kit 수분가득 슈퍼 콜라겐 3종키트
Price: ₩ 2,000
Made in: Korea

This trial kit is packed with three products: Moistfull Super Collagen Ampoule Essence 수분가득 슈퍼 콜라겐 앰플 에센스 (25 ml), Moistfull Super Collagen Cream 수분가득 슈퍼 콜라겐 크림 (10 ml) and Moistfull Super Collagen CC Cream 수분가득 슈퍼 콜라겐 CC크림 SPF33 PA++ (5 g) in the shade N02 Light Beige 라이트베이지.

Moistfull Super Collagen Ampoule Essence drenches my skin in moisture and softens like a dream (might even challenge a baby while I am at it!). The plumeria scent (prevalent across the range) is the strongest in this product.

Moistfull Super Collagen Cream is a luscious moisturiser that sinks into the skin in a jiffy. The balmier texture (the slightest bit) gives it an edge over Collagen Moistfull Cream reviewed last year for it feels more nourishing (doubly so).

Moistfull Super Collagen CC Cream breaks away from the pack for it is not a capsule CC cream. It imparts a sheer to medium coverage and N02 comes in a neutral beige shade that is much too pink for me. Someone with my undertone will (probably) suit W13 more.

They were all fabulous but my favourite product out of the trio has got to be the Ampoule Essence. I am utterly smitten by it and shall stock up on this precious liquid soonish.

The full ingredient list:

Disclosure: Pink Bird sample.

Johnson's Baby Milk + Rice

Leading baby care brand Johnson's® Baby recently unveiled the Milk and Rice range. Enriched with unique ingredients such as Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Bioactive Milk Protein, Vitamins E, C and B5 and minerals like Magnesium, Zinc and Copper, all these new products provide intensive nourishment to the skin and protect skin cells from oxidation and damage.

Clinical tests have shown a 140% improvement in skin moisture levels after application with results lasting up to 24 hours. Johnson's® Baby Milk and Rice collection is made up of the classic Bath (RM 7.20 for 200 ml), Lotion (RM 5.90 for 100 ml) and Powder (RM 3.50 for 100 g) at prices that are too good to resist.

I love bath and body products and Johnson's® Baby Milk and Rice Bath is every bit as comforting as you would imagine it to be. It lathers up nicely and cleanses thoroughly without stripping the skin of moisture. It would have been perfect if it were free from sulphates.

Johnson's® Baby Milk and Rice Lotion does exactly what it is supposed to do, which is to moisturise skin. It is a thick, white lotion that sinks in quickly leaving the most subtle scent. It is just what I needed to pamper my skin after a day toiling in this awful weather.

For babies, Johnson's® Baby Milk and Rice Powder prevents, treats, and relieves diaper rash. What about us adults? MUA members offered a wealth of information regarding this subject. Proposals from setting makeup, providing extra aid to deodorants, replacing dry shampoos and cutting down on foot odour have been tossed around and they are proven to work. The possibilities are endless!

Big love and kisses to you, Johnson's® Baby. Milk and Rice is a range to be proud of. For more information, visit Johnson's® Baby's Facebook page: facebook.com/iLoveJohnsonsbaby.com.

Disclosure: Press samples.

Oxy Oil Control Mattifying Gel

One use was enough for me to proclaim Oil Control Mattifying Gel the stuff legends are made of but once I got some of my senses drummed back, I decided that I would assess it for a week (at the very least) before I coax you guys into running to the nearest pharmacy or major supermarket outlet.

Name: Oxy Oil Control Mattifying Gel
Price: RM 16.90 for 30 g
Made in: China

Oil Control Mattifying Gel is formulated with Triple Oil Control System (Activated Zinc, Avocado Extract and Evermat) to mattify the complexion and minimise the appearance of pores. Additionally, it has Natural Menthol Extract to cool and Nano Glacier Water to deliver all day long hydration.

The gel (very aptly named) forms a silky smooth, and more importantly, matte barrier upon application. It forestalls sebum from forming for an extra 2 hours – a feat considering the appalling state of my T-zone by the third hour when it is left alone - which means that oil production only began breaking through at the fifth hour mark.

As luck would have it, 3 hours later (the eight hour) the amount of shine on my T-zone remains the same. My naked eye could not detect additional secretion nor was an oil blotter required during my week long trial run. That said, it does not render oil blotters obsolete for they, along with a reapplication are on the cards when I am pulling all-nighters.

According to the blurb, it can be used on its own, under makeup or for touch ups. To date, I have only smoothed it on after moisturiser and this approach has served me well. As usual, mileage varies so feel free to experiment to determine the way that suits you best.

Nevertheless, it is without faults. I do not possess an adjective to describe the scent for it is one step away from being foul. Mercifully it dissipates after a few (long) seconds. This smell is something that I have to endure for an impeccable appearance.

3 weeks down the road and my initial opinion still stands. I LOVE it. And if you have an oily T-zone, you would not want to be without this magical tube either.

The full ingredient list for Oil Control Mattifying Gel:
Water, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer/C12-14 Pareth-12, Alcohol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Silica/Dimethicone, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Myristyl Myristate, Carbomer, Water/Sorbitol/Algae Extract, Arginine, Xanthan Gum, Water/Lens Esculenta (Lentil) Fruit Extract, Methylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Menthol, Fragrance, Lecithin/Alcohol/Water, Butylene Glycol/Enantia Chlorantha Bark Extract/Oleanolic Acid, Butyl Avocadate, Zinc PCA.

Disclosure: Press sample.

Skin Aqua UV Silky Smooth Mist SPF50+ PA+++

Lotion sunscreens, be on the lookout because the spray type is hot on your heels! The recent years have seen their popularity escalating in Japan where brands are launching their versions left, right and center.

I have here a review of UV Silky Smooth Mist, one of the more well-liked options amongst Japanese consumers, as observed from its high 4.6 ★ @cosme rating.

Name: Skin Aqua スキンアクア UV Silky Smooth Mist さらさらUVシャワー SPF50+ PA+++
Price: RM 39.90 for 50 g
Made in: Japan

Skin Aqua UV Silky Smooth Mist is formulated with hydrating ingredients (Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Collagen and Arginine) and Silky Powder technology that boasts of a sweat control feature to keep skin fresh and smooth.

This hard worker can be used on the face, body, hair and scalp. Essentially every single inch that needs protection against the sun. As with any waterproof sunscreens worth their salt, it easily washes off with regular facial cleansers, shower gels, shampoos etc.

This sunscreen dispenses a cloud of fine mist. I am not able to tell that I have the product on, which is a testament of the lightness and absorbability of the formula. It is such a breeze joy to apply since it forms a veil without needing help from me to pat it in.

Much as I find it handy, this spray canister possesses major disadvantages. There is a likelihood that I might accidentally miss a spot (it is impossible to see where I have applied) or I may not spray on enough because I do not know the amount needed for adequate protection.

One other drawback would be its scent. It doled out more alcohol (or a component with a similar scent because this sunscreen is free from alcohol) than sunscreen during its maiden spritz. This odour tapers off after subsequent usages (or perhaps my nose is already impervious to it?) so there is hope for it yet.

My conclusion now that I have gotten the pros and cons out of the way? I would most definitely recommend that you get your hands on Skin Aqua UV Silky Smooth Mist at Watson's stores nationwide. Buy it, even if it is just for the portability aspect. We all could do with a little more shield to counter the midday sun.

And yes, I will stress that my judgment is not at all skewed even when faced with the fact that I hoard sunscreens like a dragon does with gold. Haha. Do you have a preference between lotion and spray sunscreens?

Warnings

For external use only. Avoid inhaling the mist. Avoid spraying into eyes. If accidentally sprayed into eyes rinse thoroughly with water to remove. Do not use on damaged or broken skin. Stop use and ask a doctor if irritation occurs. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help immediately. Do not stay too long in the sun even while using a sunscreen product.

Caution

Flammable. Contents under pressure. Do not use near fire, heat or while smoking. Do not puncture or incinerate. Store at temperature below 120℉ (48℃). Use only as directed. Intentional misuse by deliberately concentrating and inhaling the contents can be harmful or fatal.

The full ingredient list for UV Silky Smooth Mist SPF50+ PA+++:
Petroleum Distillates, Water, Isononyl Isononanoate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Triethylhexyl Trimellitate, Acrylates Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Dimethicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Polysilicone-15, Cyclopentasiloxane, Pentylene Glycol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Arginine, Titanium Dioxide, Hydrated Silica, Aluminium Hydroxide, Hydrogen Dimethicone.

Disclosure: Press sample.

Skin79 Complete CC Cream Correct SPF30 PA++

There are new Skin79 CC creams doing the rounds, and I needed in on the action given that I was a fan of their BB creams, in particular Diamond Prestige BB Cream.

Name: Skin79 스킨79 Complete CC Cream Correct 컴플리트 CC크림 코렉트 SPF30 PA++
Price: RM 99.90 for 35 ml
Made in: Korea

Equipped with Eco-Hub (Rosemary Leaf Water, Chamomile Flower Water, Horse Chestnut Extract) and Amino Soothing Complexes (Glutamine, Leucine, Serine) alongside a blend of nutritious ingredients (Hydrolyzed Collagen, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ceramide 3), this CC cream promises to moisturise, strengthen the skin's defenses and enhance the complexion with micro-pigment capsules that transform to match your skintone.

Complete CC Cream Correct offers the benefits of skincare and the perfecting properties of makeup in a creamy, easy to spread formula. Despite providing minimal coverage, it manages to minimise redness, ease sallowness and unify skintone. You can go over problem areas and layer as needed with a concealer.

The formula bounces off light to give cheekbones a healthy glow. As flattering as it may be, you might want to follow up with a light dusting of powder to extend its longevity because a few hours down the road, all that shine will inevitably turn into grease. If you have dry skin, feel free to ignore this little piece of advice.

Weird reflection on your right. Fear not, my face has not wrinkled beyond repair yet!

I have used a brush and a sponge to apply this CC cream but I prefer using my dainty little digits. It is less time consuming even though I have to worry about streaks and such due to sloppy blending. Haha!

Without - With

The only drawback with this CC cream is the shade. While it works for me (as long as I am liberal with a corrector powder afterwards because of my strong yellow undertone), anyone with a deeper skintone may have issues with it. There is always its sister to turn to because unlike Correct, Control does not impart coverage, which automatically widens its reach.

If you need something uncomplicated to use on a daily basis or on lazy weekends, this could be it. To buy, visit skin79.com.my.

The full ingredient list for Complete CC Cream Correct SPF30 PA++:
Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Phenyl Trimethicone, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Zinc Oxide (CI 77947), Cyclohexasiloxane, Glycerin, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Niacinamide, Methylpropanediol, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Sodium Chloride, Cyclomethicone, Beeswax, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Centella Asiatica Extract, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Viscum Album (Mistletoe) Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Viola Tricolor Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Water, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Water, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Water, Moringa Pterygosperma Seed Extract, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract, Plantago Ovata Seed Extract, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Extract, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Sorbitan Isostearate, Tribehenin, Pentylene Glycol, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Dimethiconol, Dimethicone, Polyester-1, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polydecene, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Beta-Sitosterol, Ceramide 3, Steareth-4, Adenosine, Cholesterol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Phytosphingosine, Squalane, Cholesteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Palmeth-2 Phosphate, Glutamine, Leucine, Serine, Proline, Alcohol Denat., Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance (Parfum), Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Mica (CI 77019), Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77499).

(Source: Promotional images are from skin79mall.com/)

Disclosure: Press sample.

February 2014 Modbox

There are no guarantees for beauty subscription services. You may treasure the items you receive one month, abhor them the next, and fall right back in love the following month. This will never happen with Modbox because you get to select your own samples across 3 categories.

The blogger kit featured in this entry is a little different from the normal box because it contains a good number of samples that are up for selection. It came in a little over a week ago, so that calls for short reviews:

Shaire London Hair Perfume Dry Shampoo (full-size) eliminates greasy scalp and funky odour in a single spritz. It sends forth a cooling gust, which is a welcome bonus but the icing on the cake is the absence of a white cast. It is nothing like other dry shampoos, which is a fact that we brunettes are thankful for.

Popularised by Asian brands, peeling gels have made a foothold in the exfoliating world and in Rescare Aqua Peeling Face's (full-size) case, comes in a unique foam form. Washing off the eraser-like shavings created by a gentle massaging action is a surefire way to reveal smoother and brighter skin.

Miacare Acne Patch for Day (3 patches) shows up like a beacon so it is not advisable for you to step out of the comfort of your home with it stuck on your face. Worse still, it does not combat pus filled pimples... nasties are left there slowly sucking away my vitality (I am joking but you get the gist!).

Natural herbapeutic extracts (Eucalyptus, Clove, Fennel, Anise, Salvia, Catechu, Commiphora, Cinnamon, Myrrhis, Chamomila, Ratanhia, Mint, Glycyrrhiza, Sage) Xylitol and Cyclodextrin Complex encompassed in Dentiste' Plus White Nighttime Toothpaste (20 g) and Dentiste' Oral Rinse (50 ml) are clinically proven to decrease bad morning breath in 93% users after the very first night.

They take the necessary preventive measures against gum disease to ensure good oral hygiene and to keep breath fresh and clean. Everybody can use them and that includes pregnant women and people suffering from respiratory problems.

I was skeptical when I read their claims 'instant, long-lasting fresh breath' and 'banish bad morning breath and keep gums healthy' but boy, was I proven wrong. The toothpaste does not feel as minty as my regular one plus it leaves a strange aftertaste so the mouthwash is definitely a livesaver.

Combined, they make a formidable team! I never thought that I would get this excited over dental care products.

If you want to buy your own Modbox, they are RM 9 each excluding shipping. Get it before the samples run out!

Disclosure: Press sample.

Olay AquAction Long Lasting Hydration Gel

Skin can be likened to a leaky bucket – it is constantly losing moisture to its surroundings; in fact, without doing much at all, we can lose about 2 glasses of water a day by breathing and evaporation from our skin. Olay scientists have discovered a second key cause of moisture loss - skin fatigue. Skin fatigue leads to many unwanted changes in one's skin, including a loss of skin's ability to hold onto moisture.

Armed with these insights, the new Olay AquAction boutique addresses both causes of moisture loss with the breakthrough new HydraLock technology powered by two ingredients: WSK and Niacinamide.

Cause	Power Ingredient
Skin is like a leaky bucket	WSK - an extract from the White Jelly Leaf, is renowned throughout ancient Chinese history for its beauty-enhancing properties - has been discovered to outperform Hyaluronic Acid, the current gold standard in hydration care.
Skin fatigue	Niacinamide helps address skin fatigue caused by inadequate dietary systems and everyday stressors. It gives skin the energy to renew itself, bringing it back to more youthful levels, which in turn enables skin to hold onto its own moisture more effectively.

Now that I have gotten the blurb out of the way, let us see how the star product, Long Lasting Hydration Gel, performs.

Name: Olay AquAction Long Lasting Hydration Gel
Price: RM 59.90 for 50 g
UrCosme rating: 5.0 ★
Made in: China

Long Lasting Hydration Gel is a lovely product. I have been smoothing it on for a few weeks now and it has not resulted in untoward reactions.

It has a clear, gel like consistency that disappears without a trace into the skin. It serves to encourage me to use more than usual - a good thing it comes in a 50 g jar - and you will most probably see it in an empties post on my Instagram account soonish.

It gives off clean and tranquil vibes (if that makes sense) because of the smell (or the lack of it) and the colour.

I have also been utilising it over makeup to ease dryness as taught by 牛爾老師 on the Taiwanese programme, 女人我最大. Makeup adheres better, skin looks more luminous plus dabbing it on will not mess carefully applied makeup.

Long Lasting Hydration Gel will definitely fulfill the requirements of younger skins in need of a good daily basic while being mindful of budgets - it is simply impossible to go wrong with a product that provides hydration.

The full ingredient list for Long Lasting Hydration Gel:
Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dimethicone, Betaine, Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, Panthenol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Dimethiconol, DMDM Hydantoin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Allantoin, Fragrance, Disodium EDTA, Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf/Stem Extract, Menthyl Lactate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, CI 74160, Agarum Cribosum Extract, Copper Gluconate, Ethylparaben, CI 74160.

Disclosure: Press sample.