Gucci Chime For Change

Gucci Parfums is proud to announce a minimum pledge of $1 million to support Chime for Change projects through the sales of five designated iconic Gucci fragrances. With a unique donation code in each product, consumers will be able to help improve the lives of girls and women by choosing to support projects promoting Education, Health or Justice.

Each consumer has the power to change lives. For example, one voucher code can provide:
◆ 2 days of education, daily nourishment and primary healthcare for a student in Kenya
◆ tetanus vaccines for two pregnant mothers and their unborn children in Cambodia
◆ a trained paralegal to woman denied legal rights in India to complete and process critical paperwork so she can obtain the title to her family land

Through its crowdfunding partner Catapult, Chime for Change has fully funded more than 280 projects in 81 countries through 87 non-profit partners. In addition to Catapult, Chime for Change strategic partners include the Kering Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Facebook, Hearst Magazines, P&G Prestige and Twitter.

The faces of Gucci Parfums - Blake Lively, Evan Rachel Wood, James Franco and Chris Evans - join a long list of international celebrities personally supporting this project including, Madonna, Jennifer Lopez, Florence Welch and John Legend.

Blake Lively, the face of Gucci Première, says, "I am very excited that Gucci is giving back, not only through Chime for Change, but also through Gucci Première. I want to get involved in causes I believe in, and I know so many others that want to also get involved, but it's hard to know how. Often, it's through big organizations and you don't know exactly where your money is going or what effect you are having. With Chime for Change, you can really see the difference you're making."

Evan Rachel Wood, the face of Gucci Guilty, says, "I think it's great that Chime for Change and Gucci fragrances have teamed up. Obviously as a woman it's a cause that hits very close to home. Not only women should support this, but everyone. I think part of the point of the campaign is to not treat people differently because they are a man or a woman, but to treat people like they are human beings and with equality. Everyone deserves the same kind of opportunities and treatment."

The five participating Gucci fragrances:
◆ Flora by Gucci EdT RM 361 (75 ml)
Inspired by Gucci's iconic Flora pattern, created for Princess Grace of Monaco, Flora by Gucci is the scent of feminine glamour and sensual sophistication, and is rooted in an Italian olfactory world.

◆ Gucci Guilty pour Femme EdT RM 270 (50 ml) and Gucci Guilty pour Homme EdT RM 291 (90 ml)
For the young, audacious and discerning iconoclast, Gucci Guilty suits a contemporary rebel – the very scent of defiance.

◆ Gucci Première EdP RM 455 (75 ml)
Celebrating the star in every woman, Gucci Première combines strength, power and presence with sensual femininity, because every woman deserves her red carpet moment.

◆ Gucci Made to Measure EdT RM 305 (90 ml)
For a worldly, refined and astute man who appreciates the very best and whose consummate attention to detail and authority in matters of taste mark him out as a genuine, distinctive connoisseur.

To learn more about the campaign and the girls and women it reaches, visit

✤ Website: chimeforchangecode.com
✤ Facebook: Chime for Change
✤ YouTube: ChimeForChange

Disclosure: Press sample.

Yogurugen Colon D'tox

Yogurugen is a safe and natural way to help in the elimination process without the use of laxatives as it only contains Lactitol, Bifidobacteria Lactis, Inulin, Beta Carotene and Vitamin C. It comes in one flavour: orange (オレンジ).

Name: Yogurugen Colon D'tox
Price: RM 68
Contents: 30 g ×5
Made in: Japan

What does it do?
Yogurugen says that this supplement can:
◆ Detoxify
◆ Replenish intestinal friendly bacteria
◆ Assist in slimming/weight loss
◆ Strengthen immune system
◆ Improve skin
◆ Boost digestive system

How much to take?
Once a week, mix a sachet of Yogurugen with 200 ml of water below 40 ℃ and consume on an empty stomach. Follow up for the next 2 days (altogether 3 days consecutively) and once a week thereafter. Avoid solid foods at least 2 hours after drinking.

Nutritional facts?
Per serving:
◆ Energy: 113 kcal
◆ Carbohydrate: 28.2 g
◆ Protein: 0.9 g
◆ Fat: 0 g

Does it have any side effects?
I don't see why it would negatively affect anyone. The ingredients are all natural and it is even safe for children and pregnant women. Their dosages are different though, so you might want to study the instructions before starting.

What does it taste like?
This mildly sweet orange drink is surprisingly palatable! If I did not know better, I would have thought that I was sipping an extremely diluted orange concentrate.

Do the benefits meet your target? If you answered yes, you may want to pick up a box at SaSa stores nationwide.

Disclosure: Press sample.

Etude House Lock'n Summer Review: Precious Mineral Proof Any Cushion SPF50+ PA+++, Proof 10 Cushion Lock'n Liner, Lock'n Summer Cushion Blusher, Face Conditioning Fixer

What comes to mind when you think of summer? Shaping an hourglass silhouette? Battling the soaring temperatures? Makeup melting off your face in a matter of minutes? Well, Etude House is able to tick off one of your summer woes with its waterproof Lock'n Summer collection.

ღ Precious Mineral Proof Any Cushion SPF50+ PA+++

Name: Etude House 에뛰드하우스 Precious Mineral Proof Any Cushion 진주알 맑은 프루프 애니 쿠션 SPF50+ PA+++
Price: ₩ 18,000 for 15 g
Made in: Korea

Precious Mineral Proof Any Cushion has a matte formula and gives a slight cooling sensation upon application. It helps to reduce the appearance of pores and provides substantial coverage that borders on medium (even without packing it on). Having said that, it is unforgiving on dry patches and only caters to a select few because the shades run light. One has practically got to be Snow White in order to wear the lighter N02 Light Beige 라이트 베이지! W13 Natural Beige 내추럴 베이지, the darker shade, leans on the ochre side and may look dark in the pan, but it lightens tremendously once it goes on the skin.

W13 Natural Beige 내추럴 베이지

If possible, get a match at the stores. I would not recommend buying blind.

ღ Proof 10 Cushion Lock'n Liner

Name: Etude House 에뛰드하우스 Proof 10 Cushion Lock'n Liner 프루프10 쿠션 락 앤 라이너
Price: ₩ 9,500 for 2 g
Made in: Korea

If you are used to the traditional gel liners that come in pots, I am sure you can see the appeal in cushion liners, or to be more precise, Proof 10 Cushion Lock'n Liner. It dries really quickly, which can be both a blessing and a curse. Pros? It does not budge once it sets. Cons? The brush is not able to deliver product continuously, which means constant re-dipping is necessary. The compact comes packaged with its own brush, so you do not have to purchase one, but you may already own a brush that you are comfortable working with already. It is still an appreciable gesture though!

BR401 Peace Brown 피스 브라운 is the one in my possession; there are four other colours in the collection:

ღ Lock'n Summer Cushion Blusher

Name: Etude House 에뛰드하우스 Lock'n Summer Cushion Blusher 락 앤 썸머 쿠션 블러셔
Price: ₩ 9,000 for 5 g
Made in: Korea

If I was not the one whacking OR201 Let's Go! Coral 렛츠 고! 코랄 on, I would not even know it was there. It can be a good thing because it is impossible to overdo. On the other hand, since it barely leaves a hint of colour (disappears on the skin really), I wondered whether there is a point in applying it? You may have better luck with it - the apricot shade might not be tailored for my skin tone...

Only two shades are available, and I am raring to give PK001 Hey Yo! Pink 헤이 요! 핑크 a look when it comes to my shores!

ღ Face Conditioning Fixer

Name: Etude House 에뛰드하우스 Face Conditioning Fixer 페이스 컨디셔닝 픽서
Contents: 20 ml
Made in: Korea

The 20 ml bottle pictured is a miniature that is available as a gift with purchase on etudehouse.com. It shares the same formula as the Lock'n Summer Face Conditioning Fixer that retails for ₩ 10,000 (80 ml). I would have liked for it to come in an aerosol can because the current spray mechanism dispenses large, rain like droplets that is more likely to mess makeup rather than to lock it in. I have not noticed a difference in the longevity of my carefully painted face; thankfully it works well as a regular mist!

Without - With

And that ends this image heavy post! Any thoughts you would like to share regarding this collection?

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

Disclosure: Pink Bird samples.

Etude House Baby Sweet Sugar Powder SPF15 PA++

Baby Sweet Sugar Powder SPF15 PA++ is a loose powder that came in the July 2014 Pink Box. In spite of fitting the summery theme, it does not bear the Lock'n Summer stamp, so I reckoned it would be best for it to get its own post - no sharing the limelight. Haha!

Name: Etude House 에뛰드하우스 Baby Sweet Sugar Powder 베이비 스윗 슈가 파우더 SPF15 PA++
Price: ₩ 10,000 for 5 g
Made in: Korea

The silky smooth, finely milled powder holds up makeup all day long. It also blurs fine lines and pores from peeking through, leaving a smooth, matte finish. The beige tint brightens the complexion and I think it does wonders for dull, fatigued skin.

This powder can't halt sebum production but it can mattify a slick complexion. Meaning you can dust it during a touch up. I would not recommend reapplying throughout the day because the layers of powder can easily cake up. An oil absorbing sheet would be a better way to remove grease.

Unattractive oily sheen - Mattified with one sweep of this powder

Even though it varies from case to case, I usually am able to accept fragrance in cosmetics. As with most of the base makeup by Etude House, it has a peachy scent (I have seen it described as a citrus with a touch of floral), which dissipates rather quickly and does not irritate my sensitive skin.

I just can't muster the excitement needed for an otherwise fantastic product - I need my powders to do it all (code for keep shine at bay and provide a dewy finish. Contradictory? Oh yes). Nonetheless, it has many good points, the final one being the inexpensive ₩ 10,000 price tag.

The full ingredient list for Baby Sweet Sugar Powder SPF15 PA++:
Talc, Nylon-12, Ethylene/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Silica, Ethylhexylglycerin, Methicone, Glyceryl Caprylate, Mica (CI 77019), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract, Prunus Mume Fruit Extract, Water, Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Fragrance.

Disclosure: Pink Bird sample.

Oxy Oil Control Charcoal Wash

Name: Oxy Oil Control Charcoal Wash
Price: RM 13.90 for 100 g
Made in: China

I knew I was going to like Oil Control Charcoal Wash the moment I saw it. How cool is this grey foam? It even forms a luxurious light grey lather. Yes, your eyes (as well as my camera) did not deceive you, light grey and not white.

Oxy's Oil Control Charcoal Wash is formulated with
◆ Pharmaceutical grade Charcoal from Japan to effectively clean pores, absorb excess oil and purify skin
◆ Olive Oil to keep the skin's moisture level balanced

This foaming wash promises to effectively clean skin and lift impurities. I am pleased to report this offering from Oxy serves well and while it does not keep sebum at bay, it feels kind to the skin and it certainly leaves my face clean and refreshed. It has edged out Deep Cleansing Wash to be my #1 Oxy cleanser and you know only too well how much I love the latter!

It is needless to say that I will be a repeat customer for the foreseeable future. You can find Oil Control Charcoal Wash at leading pharmacies and major supermarket outlets nationwide for RM 8.50 (50 g) and RM 13.90 (100 g).

The full ingredient list for Oil Control Charcoal Wash:
Water, Glycerin, Palmitic Acid, Myristic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Lauric Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate/Water, Glycol Distearate, Stearic Acid, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Alcohol, Polyquaternium-63/Water, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Potassium Chloride, Behenyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Carbon, Fragrance, Disodium EDTA, Betaine, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate.

Disclosure: Press sample.

Dolce & Gabbana The One 2014 Edition Eau De Parfum

Dolce & Gabbana brings a breath of fresh air to The One in 2014. With its structured clean lines, this limited edition gold flacon conjures the luxurious spirit of its contents.

Name: Dolce & Gabbana The One 2014 Edition Eau de Parfum
Price: RM 287 for 50 ml
Made in: UK

ღ The Fragrance
The One feels like a gourmand because my untrained nose detects wisps of caramel during the opening stage. I know it is there even though it is not noted anywhere in the profile (as usual, my nose is able to conjure stuff from thin air). This rich Oriental Floral perfume skips over the florals in the heart, and straight away caresses with vanilla, amber and musk.

I wish the top notes lingered longer, because I would love to get a whiff of the delectable fruity notes. I guess my only moan has more to do with my skin chemistry rather than the perfume itself...

My mother really liked it when I spritzed it on her (she is openly coveting my bottle) and so do I, which makes me class The One as a perfume for all ages. You may want to keep it for casual evenings out or if you are heading to somewhere nice, seeing that it can be a little too overpowering on a day-to-day basis.

◆ Top notes: Bergamot, Mandarin, Lychee, Peach
◆ Heart notes: Madonna Lily
◆ Base notes: Vanilla, Amber, Musk

ღ The Flacon
This limited edition flacon makes me think of chunks of rectangular gold bars soldered together *sheepish smile* Is it horrible of me to find the normal packaging to be much cuter? That said, I do believe that Limited Edition is the way to go.

The reason is twofold, one: the all gold packaging is chic, and two: it is a collector's item, which means that once it is gone, it is truly gone. I may not appreciate it, however, I know of others who do, case in point, my mother. She hardly let The One out of her sight the whole time it was on loan.

ღ The Collection
Clad in platinum, The One for Men is the perfect companion to The One in gold. You can find them at major department stores and perfumeries:-
◆ The One Limited Edition EdP 50 ml RM 287
◆ The One Limited Edition EdP 75 ml RM 373
◆ The One for Men Limited Edition EdT 50 ml RM 212
◆ The One for Men Limited Edition EdT 100 ml RM 298

ღ The Composition
The full ingredient list for The One:-
Alcohol Denat., Parfum (Fragrance), Aqua (Water), Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Propylene Glycol, Methylparaben, Benzyl Salicylate, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, BHT, Geraniol, Linalool, Citronellol, Benzyl Benzoate, Hydroxycitronellal, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Benzyl Alcohol, Citral, Benzyl Cinnamate, Isoeugenol, Amyl Cinnamal, Eugenol, CI 15985 (Yellow 6), CI 60730 (Ext. Violet 2).

Disclosure: Press sample.

Alovivi Purevivi Cleansing Lotion

As far as materialism goes, July is looking to be pretty plentiful. I best get started on the mildly scented Purevivi Cleansing Lotion before my basket (of products to play with) teeters on the brink of overpopulation.

Name: Alovivi アロヴィヴィ Purevivi ピュアヴィヴィ Cleansing Lotion クレンジングローション
Price: RM 48.90 for 500 ml
@cosme rating: 4.9 ★
Release date: 2.4.2012
Made in: Japan

My mouth gaped wider with each ingredient typed out. This list belongs to a lotion and not a makeup remover. Take a look if you don't believe me! That said, it works awfully well for something that looks like water, feels like water and well... smells better than water? Haha!

It takes 30 seconds at the very least of keeping the saturated pads over the eyes in order to lift all traces of tenacious waterproof makeup. It is so gentle that I find myself with no complaints of fogginess nor stinging. That said, some might be put off by the time needed to take all the makeup off and are not willing to wait it out.

It is far more effective as a base makeup remover. No waiting time here, just swiping motions and I am done. My only gripe is the amount of cotton pads needed - at least four pieces are needed per session. With this cleansing lotion around, I finish packs of cotton pads faster than the norm.

I proceed with a cleanser afterwards even though it is said to be a no-rinse product. Yeah, I practice the double cleanse method because I am paranoid (haha!) and I have been repeatedly drilled that a thorough cleansing regimen is a must to remove every last smidgen of impurity.

Here is it pitted against Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control SPF50+ PA+++, Etude House Play 101 Pencil and Innisfree Color Glow Lipstick (from left).

Splatterings of makeup.

Saturated cotton pad slapped on top of makeup.

Voilà, free from makeup!

Alovivi's Purevivi Cleansing Lotion is sold at SaSa stores nationally.

The full ingredient list for Purevivi Cleansing Lotion:
Water, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Butylene Glycol, Glycosyl Trehalose, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Xylitol, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Lactic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Glycolate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ziziphus Jujuba Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia Juice, Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Extract, Crataegus Cuneata Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Juice, Citrus Medica Limonum Juice, Citrus Grandis Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract.

Disclosure: Press sample.