Review: J&J Hair Identity's NATULIQUE Hair Color Service

Sample Store is back after their revamping hiatus!

I know it's kinda aunty to say, but samples are really a good way to try out stuff before committing to a purchase, 

especially if a full sized product is expensive.

Just take SKII as an example; 

although it's formulated by Asians and touted to be suitable to people from their 20s onwards,

many of my friends/colleagues all experienced breakouts after using it, and had to give it away.

Money super wasted lor :x

#turningaunty #nodenyingit

ANYWAY, 

I received an invitation to try out NATULIQUE's products at J&J Hair Identity Salon!

NATULIQUE originates from Denmark, and they're all about using certified organic ingredients in their salon products.

They pride themselves on being eco-friendly and sustainable as well - and they actually have the certification to prove it.

Their passion for health and nature also stemmed from one of the founders' personal encounter with cancer, 

so I believe that they really are sincere about using the best ingredients for their clients.

J&J Hair Identity Salon is one of the first salons in Singapore to provide NATULIQUE products.

Not only do they provide ECOCERT certified hair care, 

J&J has their TOP identity formula, which is their professional approach to every customer.

T for Textura - analysis of hair texture

O for Originality - face structure 'that the customer may originally possess'

P for Personality - personality/style 

The combination of these three points allows the stylist to create the best hairstyle for each individual :D

J&J Hair Identity Salon is located in Katong Square, which is super convenient for me whoots.

In case you're not familiar with the area, it's right next to Katong I12 and it looks like this:

Frankly I had no idea there was this place either hahahahah.

Like eh, suddenly pop-up one. 

It's kinda too far inside from the main road? :x

J&J Hair Identity is on the second level, go up the escalator and turn right!

J&J Hair Identity

88 East Coast Road 

Katong Square

#02-11

Singapore 423371

Opening hours: 

Mon - Fri : 11 am to 9 pm

Sat - Sun : 10.30 am to 8 pm

Here's a before pic of my hair (and over-long fringe wtf why does it grow so fast)

General texture of my hair. 

Other than being slightly frizzy sometimes,

I think my hair is generally quite healthy and smooth, and its just that i'm really lazy to style it.

Where got time la, sleep more important.

The salon is spacious and airy, which is really important to me! 

I don't wanna be inhaling the smell of hair chemicals all the time. 

Other than the obvious health issues, my nose itself is also very sensitive. 

Later I come out as Rudolph how.

Aiyoh the magazine rack so cute.

Can't wait to get started!

I was offered drinks and snacks in case I felt hungry (:

How they know I is glutton sia HAHAH.

The use of wood panels and greenery in the storefront, with the metal frame to give it an industrial feel..

I kind of like how the deco brings out the salon's focus on organic products.

Ahem this reminds me of my principals in retail management module hahahah. 

I had Jac Lee, Lead designer and Salon Manager, to advise me on the coloring process!

He gave me a brief introduction on the range of NATULIQUE products I would be reviewing. 

NATULIQUE products are free of Ammonia, Lauryl Sulfate, Parabens, 

and 98.02% of its ingredients are from natural sources.

While most of the colors are natural hair color shades like browns and reds (teehee), 

it would surprise you, but they actually have pastel colors like Lavender, Blueberry and Silver too!

Photo credits to Natulique

Yeah I was kinda stunned too cause you wouldn't expect organic dyes to have these colors.

Their whiteners and color developers are ammonia and parabens free too.

Is it magic.

Jac took the time to discuss with me about my hairspirations (ARIEL hahah) and limitations.

1. I've always had red tones in my hair, so I'd like to stick within that color scheme.

2. My job (actually my manager) requires me to have tame colors, so I can't go for the wild and bright shades.

3. I'd like to have babylights - thin streaks of highlights which blends and looks natural; but red, instead of blonde

4. If possible, I don't mind having wild colors but it has to be hidden in my ponytail #rebelatheart

I'm not an easy customer :x

Jac was very patient though! 

He took the time to consider and think about the best way to incorporate what I've mentioned,

instead of just brushing aside my requests like one of my ex-hairstylists, 

which is why she is an ex LOLOL

Final decision!

1. My base color would be Violet Auburn - a dark purple-red 

2. Highlights in Intense Red Dark Blonde and Intense Violet Mix.

Jac sadly informed me that I wouldn't be able to hide wild colors - which is okay by me la, it's really hard leh.

It'll be easier for me to change job HAHAHA.

He did explain that he'll be doing the highlights not from the top of my head, but lower than eye level instead.
This is so that it wouldn't bring too much attention to the brighter colors.
Wah that's another level of detail sia.

Like there are kit-kats in my hair.

You know the amazing realization I had when sitting through the first round of dyeing?

THERE WAS NO SMELL.

THERE WAS NO TINGLY SENSATION ON MY SCALP.

What sorcery is this?!!

I have highlighted, bleached, and dyed my hair for so long, 

I've always come to expect the sharp tingly feeling and the smell of ammonia.

It's usually the point of time where you'd tell yourself beauty comes with a price HAHAH.

But seriously. I didn't even realize that I was kind of dreading it till 15 minutes into the process.

And I realized that nothing happened.

Natulique is magic. 

Other than the highlights by Jac, I was attended to by Mikko, another hairstylist.

My hair actually got pretty tangled during washing, but she combed it out so carefully I didn't feel much tugging.
*waves* Thank you Mikko, for being gentle, calming and soothing during the wash and scalp massage!

Oh the scalp leave-on treatment she applied for me had a minty tingly feeling,
but it's the comfortable kind la.
I forgot the name of the treatment though :x

After 5 hours at the chair, taaa-daaaa.
Wah their ring light is super legit.

To be really honest, I couldn't see the violet tones, 

but Jac says that it's because the red appears so much brighter hence it seems darker by comparison.

He assures me that the change is definitely there.

Actually I more excited about the red HAHAH.

Here's one with natural lighting!

Okay this one probably shows slightly more purple tones than the artificial lighting. Yay!

I really love how there is a distribution of color, without being too bright on the overall.

Hopefully it's a pass for my manager bwahahah.

Let's see the colors 3 days later, under natural lighting.

I used my color protect shampoo and hair mask - as per my usual practice in the first week of getting a new dye job.

Kind of happy because.. is it me, or did the color become brighter? :D

With the extra processing due to the highlights, my hair texture is generally still as smooth as before dyeing,

but the hair ends are unfortunately feeling slightly dry.

Can't be helped - my hair hasn't been cut for quite some time liao, hahah.

Other than that, I'm mind blown as well, because the red did not bleed off much during bathtime.

My heart always aches when I see the water trickling pink down the drain, 

because it is known that red fades off with each wash.

And you know how you've to wear dark clothing for a week,
because otherwise the dye might cause staining especially when your hair is wet?

Nope. Somehow I didn't kena all those pink stains on my necklines at all.
Towel still pink la though hahaha but eh very good liao leh.

So amazed.

On the overall, J&J Hair Identity has managed to impress me with NATULIQUE's Professional organic salon hair colours,
because I never would have expected that I would be able to achieve such bright results with organic hair dye.
I would say that the best of all is the lack of strong chemical smells and tingly scalp.
Seriously, it made my sitting there so much more comfortable.

Highly recommended for those who are concerned with protecting your scalp and hair while dyeing!

If you're interested in trying out NATULIQUE's range of products,
do make an appointment with J&J Hair Identity (:

Take a look at their Facebook or Instagram for photos of other clients,
or read other blogger reviews here!

______________________________________________________________________________

Just a quick update.
Quote my name 'JASLYNN' to enjoy 20% off hair services at J&J Hair Identity.
Yay for you if you're interested to try!

Food Review: #MyMarmiteMyWay

I've decided I love it when I'm sent food items to review #happyglutton

Today it's Marmite!
An iconic item everyone knows.. Or so I thought.
Because my bf actually went "What's that?" at the sight of it. #noob

Image credits to Google

Marmite is a flavourful, savoury paste, made from yeast extract and is 100% vegetarian.
It was actually a by-product of breweries - a British company saw its nutritional potential and decided to make it palatable.
Toting it as a jar full of Vitamin Bs and Folic acid, which is beneficial for children,
its popularity spread via traditional village hall clinics in England.
And the rest, they say, is history.

What's interesting is the unique shape of the jar - it's very iconic.
I've always thought it looks like an inverted light bulb.
It is actually in a shape of a Marmite pot - a French term for a large, covered earthenware/metal pot.
These earthenware pots were also the original containers used for the spread, till the 1920s.

Considering that it is a British brand, it seems like an unconventional marketing move. Hahah.

Some people love it, some hate it - very polarising reactions.
Seriously try and Google 'Marmite Reactions'.
This Brit lets his Japanese friends try out Marmite, and some of their facial expressions are seriously classic :B

Awww cats express it best.

The most popular (and most Brit) way of eating it is on bread, but Marmite is actually very versatile!

My first memories of Marmite was since young.
Ahma often mixed a teaspoon of it into our porridge, giving it a richer flavour - similar to chicken stock.

My uncle, who studied in Melbourne, taught us to smear it over buttered toast.
Woah super addictive umami kick there!
But not too much - just a quarter teaspoon is enough.
I made the mistake of liberally slathering it on before - salty to the point of bitterness is not yummy :x

Moderation is always the key ;)

The English have got it right.. They invented it.

My sister has made Marmite Spaghetti before,
by pan-frying garlic, onions, minced chicken, and Marmite - no salt needed.
Add a cup of water, and leave it on low heat to simmer before throwing in the noodles. Taa-daa!

Ever heard of Marmite chicken? It's a popular dish in zi char places in Singapore.
Fried chicken is coated with Marmite and garnished with sesame seeds.

Image credit: Google

For my own Marmite recipe, I'm preparing this!

Pan-fried Marmite Chicken Balls with Cheese Sauce Noodles

You will need:

Minced chicken - I used 100g, which yielded around 12 balls.
Water Chestnuts
Egg
Marmite
Black Pepper
Instant Noodles

For the sauce:
Grated Parmesan Cheese - 1 bowl
Plain Flour - 1 cup
Butter - 1/4 stick
Milk or Cooking Cream - 2 bowls

1. Dice the water chestnuts and add into a bowl together with the minced chicken

2. In a separate bowl, beat eggs and add 1 tablespoon of Marmite. You may add a pinch or two of black pepper for extra kick.

3. Mix the wet ingredients together with the dry and mix thoroughly.

4. Shape the chicken balls; either with teaspoons or by hand.
    Tip: Lightly dust a plate with plain flour to prevent the balls from sticking and crumbling when you pick it up.
5. Cover with cling film and leave in fridge for 15 mins to let the chicken absorb the flavour, and also to let the shape set.

6. Use low heat to pre-heat pan.
7. Add oil, and place chicken balls into pan, turning it around every 3 mins or so till golden brown.
    Tip: I like to cover the pan - it minimizes oil splattering and helps to lock in moisture.

8. Leave on paper towels to drain excess oil.

BWAHAHA actually they look like nuggets rather than chicken balls LOLOLOL.

For Cheese sauce
1. Melt butter in a saucepan

2. Add equal parts flour into melted butter slowly; stir in small amounts to prevent over-thickening and clumps.
Cook for 1-2 min to prevent having a raw flour taste.

 

3. Pour in room temperature milk or cooking cream, and stir until roux (butter-flour) has dissolved and becomes smooth.
4. Add in grated cheese and stir until cheese melts.

Final step: Cook the instant noodles, pour the cheese sauce over and add the marmite chicken on top!

Om nom nom enjoy!

1 heaped teaspoon of Marmite is flavourful enough for the amount of meat I had, with no additional salt required.
Marmite may taste slightly smoky, so if you would like to tone it down abit, add abit of sugar.

Want to try making your own Marmite dishes?
You can get Marmite from all supermarkets in Singapore, and there are 3 sizes available:
115 g bottle retails at $3.69, 230 g bottle at $6.47, 470 g bottle at $12.33.

Even better, get your free sample of Marmite from Sample Store, from 8th August onwards.

While you're at it, join Sample Store's #MyMarmiteMyWay Review Contest !
It's easy, just share a review of your personal experience on how you enjoyed your Marmite free sample on Sample Store,
e.g. what dishes did you make?

Contest ends 30th September 2016, and winners to be announced on Sample Store's Instagram & Facebook page.
3 winners will each win 3 different sized bottles.
Have fun!

Review: Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel

Back with another Biore product to share!

This time, it's their sunblock - Biore's UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel.

Perfect timing, because my current sunblock is about to run out. :p

As with every year, the June-July sun is sweltering!

I quite heng la, this year's fasting month saved me from going out to get lunch and getting baked in the process. :B

Thankful for the fact that my working environment is sheltered and air-conditioned too.

Sometimes when I do follow my colleagues out to buy food, 

we often complain of the heat, but at the end of our lunch hour, we still have our sanctuary.

Salute the people who are working so hard under the merciless sun - namely the construction workers, and actually, taxi drivers too!

I see my dad's right arm and left, totally different color due to the window's position. ):

Must always be thankful, and count our blessings. 

Okay, so ahem, my current sunblock is also from Biore - UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence

Aiya, affordable ma, plus its a brand I'm familiar with, so no fear of pimple outbreaks.

I've been using it for the past two years, and I love it for the light, non-greasy texture.

*Previously I had tried Nivea's Facial Sunscreen, but that left a obvious white 'rim' around the edges of my face.

And my face felt slightly oily few hours after application - due to my skin type; I have combination skin.

Passed it on to my aunt - who has dry skin - and that worked for her though.

No matter what brand, it is always important to choose the right type of product for your own skin type.

For starters, Biore takes their UV protection range very seriously.

They have reformulated their products to offer SPF50+ and PA++++ sun protection rating - the highest level recognised in the industry.

How does it work? 

Sunscreen products are rated based on two rating systems, 

known as the Skin Protection Factor (SPF) and the PA rating system. 

UV Rays from the sun comprises of UVA and UVB rays, and penetrates skin at different levels.

SPF rating determines the duration of time your skin stays protected against UVB rays. 

A sunscreen with the rating of SPF50 blocks up to 98 percent of UVB rays from penetrating into skin. 

Plus, anything higher than a SPF50 rating compromises on the texture of the sunscreen, 

making it heavier and greasier when applied to skin.

PA rating is a Japanese rating system that indicates the protection you are receiving against UVA rays. 

The higher the number of pluses, the greater the protection against UVA rays. 

Currently, the highest standard of PA protection in the industry is PA++++.

So basically, Biore has managed to improve their formula to protect our skin sufficiently, and at the same time, maintain a light watery texture.

Let's put their claims to the test.

And, as a bonus, what's the difference between the UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence, and the new Watery Gel?

Here I have, my old bottle of UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence, which I bought sometime in January at HK.

This is still available, but in the new PA++++ formula.

Acts as a regular sunscreen, protects skin, and promises of a light watery texture upon application.

And the UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel.

Already with the new PA++++ formula, it boasts to also brighten skin for a glowy, dewy appearance.

It is infused with hyaluronic acid and citrus extract to keep skin hydrated and fresh.

Also promises to have a light watery texture.

I squeezed a small amount of each product on the back of my hand - tried to dispense the exact same amount as possible.

I kid you not, the watery gel started to slide off my hand almost immediately.

Comparing both product consistencies, they are not very visibly different initially,

yet as I picked up my camera I could feel the watery gel becoming more liquid than the other.

Interesting.

I rubbed the product into my skin - watery gel first, cause it was sliding off, then watery essence.

Like woah, the watery gel spread very easily, and produced lots of visible droplets. Amazing leh!

And for the same amount, you can see that the watery gel covers a lot more than the essence.

Close up !

UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel

UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence

Both products absorbed easily into the skin, within a minute. 

I would dare to say 30 secs actually, cause it's true !

There's also a cooling sensation as it dried, I likey. 

Another important point to me: There is no strong smell!
There is a light citrus fragrance for both.

With regards to the finish, my skin was feeling light, and there is totally no greasy feeling or white marks.

I wouldn't say the Watery Gel gave my skin any brightening glow more than the Watery Essence did, though.

In conclusion, I actually like the new UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel better, 

because of the moisturizing effect, and it spreads easier on my skin. (Can use a bottle for longer, LOLOL) :B

For those who are interested, 

the new Biore Aqua Rich Watery Gel retails at $18.90 for a 90ml bottle, and is available at all pharmacies, hypermarkets and supermarkets, and major departmental stores :D

Review: Biore Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover

I always get excited when there's a review request for Biore's makeup removers,

because they always exceed expectations :D

I'm a loyal fan of their Biore Cleansing Oil Cotton Sheets - super convenient and effective.
1 sheet is more than enough for me to wipe off my makeup, which consists of BB cream and eyeliner.
Simplicity is the key ; and my eyes are too small anyway. :x

Today, I'm introducing Biore's new product - Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover!

I previously did another review on Biore's Micellar Cleansing Water

What's the difference for the Aqua Jelly?

The formulation is of a smooth jelly consistency, which glides on pretty easily.

It contains 40% moisturizing essence, so you are cleansing your skin and keeping it moisturized at the same time.

How to use?

No need for facial cotton pads.

Simply pump an appropriate amount onto your hands, and spread it evenly over your face.

Just like using your regular face wash!

For the amount of makeup I use, 1 pump is sufficient.

Massage gently to dissolve the makeup.

I find that it doesn't feel sticky at all! Like a lightweight gel.

Lastly, rinse off with water and taa-daa! Done.

My skin doesn't feel tight at all.
Most importantly, my super stubborn waterproof eyeliner actually managed to get dissolved!

Quite impressed, and I may actually consider switching to this instead of the cotton sheets.
Feels like less of a waste, because I only need one pump to clear all.
Cotton sheets I can actually use just half, but my sister would kill me if I kept tearing them :x


Biore Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover retails at $24.90,
It can be found at all leading supermarkets, personal care stores, pharmacies & departmental stores.

Review: Palmer's Rapid Moisture Spray Lotion - Instant Cooling

I'm back with another Palmer's product!

Previously I had introduced their Skin Therapy Oil for Face, which now belongs to my mum.
She's using it on alternate days and says that over a period of 1 month, some of her dark spots have lightened.
She likes the texture too. :D

This time, I will be sharing about the Rapid Moisture Spray Lotion - Instant Cooling.

Watch this video for information regarding skin superfood: Cocoa Butter!

Okay la I very nice, I know some of you probably skipped the 2 minute video LOL.
I shall summarize for you lazy bums!

Cocoa butter is rich in Vitamin A, C, and E, as well as oleic acid, and minerals.
It is a natural anti-oxidant which helps to prevent signs of skin aging.
And to do their part for the Earth's environment,
Palmer's uses cocoa beans which are sustainable and ethically sourced,

So what's new with the Rapid Moisture Spray Lotion?
I have the one with Instant Cooling - which contains aloe vera, another moisturizing ingredient.

Usually, moisturizers that we use are either creams, oils, or gels.
For my skin, gels are preferred because of their fast absorption rate, compared to the other two.

Application can sometimes be messy, if we are not careful.
I can't count the number of times I happily apply liao, then I forget and go sit down on my chair. -.-
That's my common peeve about applying body moisturizers!

Aiya I very nua one. Hehehe.

Palmer's new spray type moisturizer, which promises rapid absorption - using its RapidSorb® Technology - sounds almost too good to be true.
Simply spray, rub in the non-greasy lotion and you're done in less than a minute.

Let's put it to the test!
Before

Hold can about 3 to 4 inches away from skin and spray.

Rub in the lotion; which is slightly white and visible when first sprayed on.
It was a pleasant surprise when I found out that the lotion was not as greasy as it looks.

I waited about 30 secs for the moisturizer to be fully absorbed.
There was a slight cooling sensation - credited to aloe vera as on of their ingredients.
Very shiok! Perfect for the crazy weather outside.

And the cocoa butter smell is damn irresistable!
Om nom nom chocolate.

If you want a deeper moisturising effect, rather than cooling, the spray also comes in Shea butter variant.
Their popular stretch mark lotion is also available as the spray version too!

Popular Taiwanese celeb Sonia Sui is the spokesperson for Palmer's Rapid Moisture Spray Lotion.

Where to get le awesome moisturiser?
Palmer's Rapid Moisture Spray is available at Watsons, Guardian, Fairprice, BHG, Robinsons, John Little and leading cosmetic stores, at the retail price of $17.90

Now I'm off to hunt down some edible chocolate. :D

Review: Essential - Shampoo and Conditioner

Remember Essential's Damage Care hair products?

Images from Google

I used to be an ardent fan of the Premier Rich hair mask - it worked wonders for my slightly frizzy hair!
Twice a week usage healed my hair, which I used to have to bleach or dye twice to get it red.
Then I switched to visiting Shunji Matsuo, and I didnt need such a rich hair mask anymore.

Now, Essential has come up with a new range of hair care products.
Taa-daa!

Images from Google

No worries, their popular Damage Care treatments and hair masks are still available.
What's new is the expanded variants of shampoo and conditioners for daily use!

Now, from my previous experience with the Premier Care shampoo, I found that the damage care range was really effective.
A slight bit too effective, because two weeks after using,
I felt that my scalp was more prone to oiliness before the end of the day.
Maybe because I have a low exposure to heat damage, so my hair doesn't require daily damage care?
So I only continued using the mask.

This new range aims to provide basic, daily care for your hair, and comes in four variants:
Nourishing Breakage Defense, Moisturizing Frizz Free, Light Finish Volumizing, Deep Cleansing Care

Image from Essential

Sample Store has kindly sent me both Light Finish Volumizing and Deep Cleanising Care variants to try! :D

These two variants are suitable for those who have combination hair.
Combination hair is much like combination skin - oily scalp, but dry hair ends.

Very troublesome to take care of :x

You have to ensure that excess sebum is cleared to maintain a healthy scalp,
yet with a too strong shampoo it may dry out your hair ends..

You hope to nourish your hair ends and keep it smooth, but an over-rich conditioner may irritate or lead to an oily scalp..

In short, headache.

So whoever came up with hair products for combination hair, thank you!

Essential uses Smart Cuticle Care and Sebum Cleansing Technology, to take care of your scalp, while nourishing your hair ends.
Best of all, you can mix and match between the variants for the type of treatment you need.
#PersonalizationFTW

Deep Cleansing Care is more suitable for those with an oily scalp,
and Light Finish Volumizing promises natural volume as the formula will not weigh hair down.

I challenged the products on Saturday - went cycling with my clique after work, had dinner and went to sing k.
Totally putting the scalp cleansing ability to the test!

I used this combination: Deep Cleansing Care Shampoo, and Light Finish Volumizing Conditioner.
And while shampooing, I put the shampoo brush to good use :D

Dry demo! Very easy to grip, so you wont be dropping it around in the shower.

Shampoo brushes are apparently very popular in Japan.
The brush massages the scalp as it lathers and removes dirt and sebum build-up.
It improves blood circulation too.
Hehehe plus it saves my manicures from getting chipped when I scrub.

Essential inspired #jtsmani :D

My scalp felt very refreshed after the shampoo!
It remained that way even after I woke up, till around afternoon.
I wondered if it was due to the shampoo brush, so I tried another wash, using only bare hands.
The effect lasted as well; I think my scalp is in love hahaha.

The conditioner however, didn't work any volumizing magic on my hair - but sis says my hair is already usually volumed enough, LOL.
Most importantly, the hair strands didn't feel too dry despite the deep cleansing shampoo,
so I guess the conditioner still did a good job protecting my ends!

Don't think thats what they mean by volumizing.. :D

The Deep Cleansing Care range smells lightly of lychee.. which le bf loves.
Light Finish Volumizing range smells slightly sweeter, like peaches.
Both are not overpowering, so my nose approves :D
Pok's nose approves too, cause the lychee smell lingered after my hair dried.. and he wanted to eat my hair wtf.

Want squeaky clean, soft and edible smelling hair?

Get your free samples of the Deep Cleansing Care Shampoo and Conditioner from Essential!
Visit Essential's Facebook page here to redeem.

And if you love it, you can purchase the bundle pack - Essential Shampoo (750 mL) + Conditioner (750 mL) at $19.60, from all leading supermarkets.
The shampoo brush is included inside! Comes in hot pink or mint.

For more upcoming promotions and updates, follow @EssentialSingapore on Instagram and Facebook!