Review: Korean Beauty Products

Short review on some of the new Korean beauty products that I've tried!
Mostly ordered from Althea when I was their beta tester.

Laneige's Multiberry Yoghurt Pack - 80 ml, and I got it for $25.20

The yoghurt pack promises to hydrate, promote collagen synthesis, and exfoliate skin.
It contains multiberry extracts for an antioxidant effect too.

I was soooo mindblown because it really smells like a tub of berry yoghurt.

The texture too! Felt like I was smoothing real yoghurt on my face. Not that I've tried la, hahaha.

No wonder the instructions said "Do not eat"

Spread a thin layer on after washing your face and using toner. Avoid the eye area!

I do have to say that the first 30 seconds it feels kinda uncomfortable, like I have something realllly sticky slathered on..

Gets better after awhile, you can sorta feel it melting into your skin. 

Wash off with warm water after 5 to 10 minutes and you're done!

My skin feels really fresh and there's really a slight bounce which lasts throughout the night.

Laneige recommends to use the Multiberry Yoghurt Pack twice a week.

However, due to the creamy texture, it might be overkill for those with oily skin.

Once a week or every two weeks might be better.

Holika Holika Pig-Nose Clear Black Head 3 Step Kit - $1.80 when I got it.

No idea why is it called pig nose seriously. It is usually termed strawberry nose leh..

Anyway, got this because I was curious about how it's different from the usual pore packs.

I have tiny blackheads on the sides of my nose - not very obvious but they're stubborn.

 

All of the information printed on the back is in Korean, so here are the usage details.

Step 1 is supposed to open up your pores for easier exfoliation.

Step 2 is the actual pore pack. Super sticky!

Step 3 acts like a pore minimizer, for after you've ripped removed the pore pack.

Both Step 1 and 2 nose masks were like sheet masks, while Step 3 was like a gel mask.

I can't say this product was helpful to me, because I didn't see much removed dirt on the pore pack.

My stubborn blackheads were still stubborn too, despite the claims of Step 1 to help in opening pores.

It did work for some beauty bloggers, so maybe it's just not the right pig.. I mean, pack for me.

Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Foam - got it at $8.10

Now this is the right one for me.

I ever went for a complimentary facial treatment once; 

and the consultant told me that I had slightly dried out skin and might want to think about changing my cleanser.

Recognized that as a sales pitch so I told her I'll think about it.

Like nooo I'm not spending any money, this is supposed to be free LOLOL.

Okay so previously, I was just using my sisters' Avene Cleanance Gel Cleanser - for oily skin and acne.

Afterall, my skin type was combi and I was prone to breakouts on the forehead, nose and chin so I thought it was okay.

Then I read some reviews about this cleansing foam and I thought why not,

since Innisfree's Green Tea series is really popular and has different products catering to each skin type.

For those who're wondering, its a smooth cream type cleanser, and it doesn't actually 'foam up'.

I loveeeee the light and fresh green tea scent too!

Like woahhh I can feel the difference in a week.

Because my skin actually became less oily at the forehead areas, and I had lesser breakouts.

Might be a sign that puberty is really over and i'm not that young anymore LOLOL,

but seriously since then I haven't had gigantic pimples on my nose anymore.

Only once a month (ahem) do I get one enormous hormonal pimple either on forehead or chin.

I now have 3 bottles stocked up in my storeroom hahahah.

Skin Food Wash Off Masks - $8 each 

I got the Rice Mask and Black Sugar Mask.

Pearlyn got me to buy this for her when I went Korea, so I decided to try it for myself!

 

The Rice Mask moisturizes and brightens your skin tone, while the Black Sugar exfoliates and nourishes.

With regards to usage, both are very different!

For the Rice Mask, you should use it after cleansing and drying your face.

Avoiding the eye and mouth area, massage gently for 10 to 15 min before washing off.

I know righttttt, so jialat need to rub for 10 mins..

The grains of the mask is quite fine, and it really smells of rice water. 

For the Black Sugar Mask, also use it after cleansing, but! you can mix the mask with water or toner to reduce skin irritation.

Avoiding the eye and mouth area, massage gently and leave it for 10-15 min before washing off.

The grains are coarser and gives you more of the scrub feel than the Rice Mask.

There's this slight warmth, which is normal and supposedly opens your pores to allow better absorption of nutrients.

Quite shiok la massage with facial scrub once in awhile.

I love the Black Sugar one more than the Rice, well, because I can leave it on LOLOL.

Last but not least, Skin Food Fresh Apple Mild Pore Peeling Gel - $11

Yes I'm quite a fan of deep cleansing I know :x

The gel smells great, with a tangy and slightly sweet green apple scent that I love. 

Ahem, abit like DKNY Be Delicious, the only perfume I heheh. (walao perfume also smell like food)

It has a brief fine, sandy texture when rubbed into skin, which assists in exfoliation.

You should expect it to melt into your skin, producing the white clumps of dead skin and dirt we love to see get washed away.

I actually have mixed feelings about this.

You know how super liberated it feels like, when there are lots of white clumps produced?

The more clumps there are, the happier, cause you're removing it (even though the amount scares you LOL)

The first time I used the gel, I was so happy because my T-zone and chin had so many clumps. Like yay I'm cleaning my pores successfully!

What's more impressive is that my cheeks almost had nothing on them,

which led me to believe that the gel really works at targeting dirt, and it's not just friction causing the clumps to form.

Sorry la, science student, what do you expect?

However, for the subsequent times I used it, there were NO clumps at all. 

Like wut I'm not that clean leh, cause I can still see some stubborn blackheads present hahah.

Maybe it's cause I also changed my cleanser?

But oh well. :x

Omg I still have a two more Laneige items to share, and one of my current favourite brands for sheet masks too. 

Sounds like I keep buying leh wut.

Review: Althea - For Korean beauty products addicts!

Not a sponsored post - I'm not being paid to advertise for Althea or their referral program, but just honestly sharing a site that I've come to love.
So please don't income tax me LOLOL.

I was approached by Althea last Sept 2015 to be a beta tester for their launch in Singapore :D

Why so excited?

Because Althea is all about bringing you your favourite Korean beauty products,
at prices cheaper or even equivalent to Korea's retail price!

No need to dedicate luggage space for those heavy beauty products liao!
Which means I can buy more clothes #unstoppable :B

Imagine Laneige's Water Sleeping Mask for SGD$27 only?

Give you all a sneak peek at their bestseller prices.

They have periodic markdowns on popular products, occasional freebies you can just cart out with purchases,
and best of all, the 1+1 daebak deals.

No kidding, I've bought the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask at 2 for SGD$31! Like wut 賺到.

Oh yes, and brand day discounts - 30% discount on all products under the specific brand.
There's been Tony Moly, Holika Holika, Missha, etc.
I'm waiting eagerly for Innisfree's turn :D

As a very smart marketing technique, they love to share the deals on social media more than their email subscriptions.
So do make sure you're following their Facebook and Instagram accounts for faster updates.

Other than the products itself, I love the ultra gorgeous boxes they are sent in!

This is the standard pink box..
If you know me, that's not what I'm excited about.

Lined with even more pink paper on the inside. HAHAH.

Okay tadaaa. The special edition boxes are the highlight!

This was for Christmas, damn chio la the wine red. and all the sides had winter scenes.
There was a forest green box too, but siao la cannot buy so many beauty products leh.
I only have one face, and I'm actually quite lazy when it comes to skincare.

CNY special edition box! I didn't know about this design if not I confirm order one. T.T

Wait I'm starting to sound like I'm buying for the box and not the products LOL.

#suckerforpackaging

Okay la some products are not available on their website, like my current love - Innisfree Sheet Masks.
So I just got my bff to stock them for me on her recent trip to Korea, hiak hiak.
The Hyaluronic Acid one was so popular, it was sold out in many of the stores she went to,
and when she finally found it, she cleared the entire 30 pcs off the shelves LOLOL.

Xiexie #buddingyeast! :D

IF YOU HAVE BEEN TEMPTED TO CHECK OUT ALTHEA.

Good news, because you're now reading the main intention behind my post. *evil cackle*

All new customers will receive $10 credits for their use!

And that's not all.. because if you sign up via my referral address here, and use my code 'JTJASLYNN' at checkout,
you get another $5 off your first order!

Of course, I also get $5 credits to use during my next order, so it's a win-win :D

Shall review some of the items I've gotten to try next time

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: My Beauty Diary Black Obsidian Moisturizing Black Mask

I believe My Beauty Diary 我的美麗日記 series of face masks needs no fancy introduction!

My Beauty Diary is a leading Taiwanese skincare brand, founded in 2004.

It is popular in Singapore, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

They have recently launched a new line of masks - the Black Mask range.
So what's new about the masks, other than packaging ?

The mask sheet itself has been pumped up with Cosphingo™, 
a specially patented and unique ingredient which has super moisturizing properties.
High quality cotton fibers from Japan are used to weave the masks, ensuring smooth comfort.

One of the reasons why their masks are so popular is the fit of the masks.
Not only does it contours the face, it extends to your neck area too!
We often neglect that, and it usually leads to fine lines.

Yay for a face + neck mask, makes our money worthwhile :D

Formula-wise, the mask range features the 3D Hyaluronic acid and Yeast Compound.

3D Hyaluronic acid is a deeply hydrating ingredient,
and its unique structure also forms a protective film over the skin, to allow moisture retention.

Yeast compound aids in tightening and regulation of  skin tone.
It also acts to soothe fatigue skin, giving it a glowing and velvety smooth complexion.

There are three types available of masks, meant for hydration, brightening, or firming.

I received the Black Obsidian Moisturizing Black Mask to try!
It is suitable for normal skin types, and functions to deeply hydrate skin.

To achieve deep hydration, what does it entail?
The mask must aim to be nourishing, hydrating, moisturizing and illuminating.

The ingredients in the Black Obsidian Mask work together to achieve those four targets.

French Black Obsidian - a type of healing stone - is rich in trace elements and minerals,
and boosts skin's protection and hydrating power.
Laminaria digitata - brown algae - and sugar maple combine to deliver intense hydration, even to the deep layers.
Other hydro-packed ingredients include bladder wrack seaweed, aloe vera, and hydrolyzed jojoba,
as well as calendula, licorice, and ruscus aculeatus extracts to soothe dry and irritated skin.

What's best about the formula, is that it does not contain any harmful paraben preservatives, alcohol, mineral oil, pigments and fluorescent agents.
This makes it suitable for all skin types, even those with sensitive skin. (Y)

Eh okay let's get to the actual product review!

The Black Masks series retails at $16.50 for a pack of 5, and is available at Guardian, Sasa and Watsons.
You can purchase the masks online from Nature's Mart too; delivery is free for orders above $50.

Mine was kindly sent by Sample Store for my honest opinions.

Before putting on the mask, I made sure to cleanse my face first !
Nyehyackkk, recent pimples on my forehead and nose.

Upon opening the packet, I first noticed the smell of the contents.

It's a pleasant scent, a mix of diluted rose and soap.
Yeah, I'm quite sensitive to strong smells, so this is a plus point for sure.

I was quite wowed by the softness of the mask too !
No kidding, it's so soft, I was worried about accidentally tearing it.
You know the super soft cotton material that Uniqlo loves to seduce buyers with?
The kind you touch and immediately feel like buying cause it's sooo comfy.
Exactly that.

And it really does fit snugly to your skin.
Eh but slightly too tight, cause my face feels like it's wearing skinny jeans.

HAHAHAH I took a selfie to show le boyfriend.
I look (and feel) like a bank robber LOLOL.

GIMME YOUR MONEY.

I'm typing out my post as I'm masking, and seriously, so far I'm impressed.

I actually forgot to pop the box into the fridge beforehand (which I usually do for my masks),
so I had no choice but to apply the mask at room temperature.
However, I can still feel a cooling sensation on my skin, as if it is really drinking in the formula.

Of course, the science student in me also says that the feeling is probably attributed to the moisture evaporating off.. #scienceFTW.

After 20 minutes, here's my liberated face.
It's obviously brighter than the robber picture. LOL.

#nofilter #BanishThemPimples.

Okay la serious.

After I peeled off the mask, my skin felt slightly sticky, but that feeling went away after awhile.
There was no residual tight feeling on my face too.

I'll recommend this as a once a fortnight mask, for combination skin like mine. (:

Harness the power of social media (and mystical black for fair and radiant skin)! #adslogan :B

Redeem a free single pc sample of the Black Obsidian Moisturizing Black Mask, worth $3.95 !

Like the My Beauty Diary Sg Facebook Page, and click on the 'More' tab.
Select 'Black Mask Group Redemption' to join the group deal.

This is limited to the first 1,000 entries, so faster go join!

Review: Palmer's Skin Therapy Oil for Face

It's been quite some time since my last review for Sample Store!

I'm very sure everyone has heard of Palmer's, especially their Cocoa Butter Formula range, as one of the popular brands for moisturisers.

Founded in America more than 170 years ago, Palmer’s is one of the world’s leading names in skincare. They hold a strong commitment in creating affordable, good quality products which works, and can be found in more than 80 countries worldwide

Their #1 formula, Cocoa Butter Formula, is one of Palmer’s key offering in its wide range of skincare. Today, Palmer’s is still growing to provide a product for every
skincare need : hand and body care, facial care, stretch mark care, hair care, body care and personal care.

Using nature’s richest, most luxurious ingredients, Palmer’s key ingredients include Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Morever, Palmer’s is against animal testing, and all of the products are cruelty free. Majority of Palmer’s products are free of parabens, phthalates and sulphates.

I swear by their lip balm to protect my lips from cracking during dry/cold weather overseas.
Bought the Dark Chocolate and Mint flavoured one during my recent trip to HK, damn cheap only, and smells good. *nom noms.*
Other than lip balms and butters, I've read good reviews for their hand creams, stretch mark creams and scar care products as well.

This time, I'm introducing their Skin Therapy Oil for Face.

Their TVC!

It is a multi-purpose, skin perfecting dry oil for face & neck, and aims to achieve the following:

- Reduces lines & wrinkles
- Lightens dark spots
- Moisturizes dry, ageing skin
- Brightens & evens skin tone

Palmer's Skin Therapy Oil is a combination of Pure Cocoa Butter, Sesame Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil, Rosehip Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Camelina Oil and Argan Oil.
That's 9 types of oils, blended together with Vitamin A, Vitamin C and their exclusive Cetesomate E Complex,
to confer anti-ageing benefits on your skin!

That being said, Palmer's recommends this serum for women aged 35 and above,
and those who are concerned about fine lines, dark spots, and ageing skin.

Now, the idea of applying oil on your face might sound slightly scary.
Afterall, I'm sure most of us are already used to gel based products, myself included.

It's worth a try though.

I tested the consistency of the oil before applying it to my face.
The oil comes with a dropper, so bonus points for non-messy dispensing!

I placed only a drop on the back of my hand, then rubbed it in to absorb.
There's a nice light rosehip smell, kinda like super diluted rose syrup.

It doesn't feel as oily as I thought it would be, but it definitely left a visible oily sheen.
That was gone in about 5 minutes - longer than my usual gel moisturiser.

Hokay on my face!
I decided I only needed 2 drops for the entire face; lesser on the T-zone because I have combination skin.

Before :
I dont have skin ageing problems like fine lines, dark spots and wrinkles,
but I do have an uneven skin tone.

After:
Hmm face looks shiny initially, but it doesnt feel very oily after 3 minutes.
I left it on for another 10 minutes, still slightly oily.
Took my skin 20 minutes to feel completely dry.

Conclusion? I dont think this is suitable for my face. :x

On the contrary, it absorbed better on my neck.
No oily feeling after 2 minutes!

Before

After

I let my mum try the oil too, to see how it works on their recommended target group.

She approves, hahahah.
According to her feedback, the oil was absorbed into her skin rather quickly, around 3 minutes.
Initially there was a tight feeling, but that went away after 1 minute, after she spread it more evenly on her face.

She felt that her dark spots had not lightened significantly,
but the fine lines seems less pronounced, and she had a brighter skin tone.

Interested to buy Palmer's Skin Therapy Oil , for either yourself or your loved ones?

It's available at Watson's - both online and in physical stores - at $29.90 for a 30 ml bottle.
(Wah I didn't know Watson's had an online store LOL)

And take part in their lucky draw as well!
Simply post a selfie of you and your bottle of Palmer's Skin Therapy Oil on Instagram,
with the hashtags:  #Palmers #PalmersSg #PalmersSTOFace

Stand to win the Grand Prize of $150 cash + $80 Palmer's hamper,
and consolation prize of $100 cash + $80 Palmer's hamper!

Contest runs from now to 25th April, so send in your entries ASAP. Good luck!
*Winners will be announced on 30th April 2015.

Want to try before you buy?
Hehehe you still have time to redeem a free sample from Sample Store here!

Review: BLACK PAINT - Easy Four Step Pore Care

Quite excited over BLACK PAINT Pore Care Pack!

Just a little background on BLACK PAINT.

BLACK PAINT is a organic skincare brand, established in Kyoto, Japan. 

They celebrate their 15th anniversary this year, and are also the proud winners of the Grand Gold Medal of Monde Selection Awards for 6 consecutive years.

BLACK PAINT's founder is researcher Miyuki Maeda.

For Maeda, it all started as a challenge to find a cure for daughter's rare kidney disease.

In the course of her research, 

she realized the importance of bacteria naturally present in our body, known generally as flora.

Flora in the gut and on the skin can function as a line of defence and protection.

For example, Staphylococcus epidermis keeps the skin hydrated and maintains pH balance.

Based on her discoveries, instead of using synthetics like anti-bacterial agents for sterilization,

Maeda focused on nourishing the flora to enable natural healing and protection.

To mimic the nutrients produced by the flora, 

BLACK PAINT uses only natural, organic ingredients in their products:

They boast a blend of more than 100 types of plant oils and 50 types of essential oils.

Woah, that's a lot. :o

In order to combat troubled skin, BLACK PAINT believes that it should start from the pores.

Pores clogged by excessive sebum, dirt and make-up can lead to various skin problems.

Skin which is not nourished is also unable to renew efficiently as well.

Their 4 step approach is: Unclog, Hydrate, Nourish and Protect.

Step 1 - Unclogging pores

For starters, BLACK PAINT soap containing high-grade Kishu Binchotan Charcoal is used.

The slightly alkaline based soap restores pH balance, and nourishes skin.

Charcoal is well known to be a good absorber of impurities.

Organic and natural oils protects the skin and minimize irritation.

To use the soap, immerse it into warm water, approximately 40 degrees Celsius.

I used the bowl provided.

Once the soap is in a paste like texture, it is ready to be applied to dry skin.
Warning, this step is a little messy!
Don't use water which is too warm.

Apply the soap directly from the bar, using all melted surfaces if possible.

It can even be applied over make-up to remove it.. Like seriously? :o

Massage the soap into skin for approximately 1 minute.

The soap adheres itself to the clogs, and the massaging motion aids in the extraction.
There is a slight floral fragrance, not too overpowering.

Rinse soap off gently with warm water.
Due to the runny texture, some of the soap got into my eyes while washing
It stung more than the usual soap I use, so be careful !

Leave the soap bar to dry naturally on a soap dish. 

Remember to keep it away from direct sunlight!

The Black Konjac Sponge helps to further exfoliate.

It contains Kishu Binchotan Charcoal as well.

The sponge removes partially exposed blackheads which were not removed by the soap 

Excess keratin is also removed to enable translucence, and also allows better penetration of lotion.

Soak the sponge completely in warm water, for 3 to 5 minutes, until totally soft.

Squeeze the excess water from the sponge by compressing it. Do not twist the sponge!

Massage face with sponge using a gentle circular motion, outwards.

Leave the sponge to dry naturally.

Step 2 - Hydration

Best Water Toner to the rescue !

With 30 types of natural minerals, it nourishes skin, restores and maintains hydration balance.
No alcohol is contained in this toner.

To use, you may apply 3 -5 pumps directly to skin, and pat for better absorption.
Another method would be to apply it onto facial paper and apply it as a mask on cheeks and forehead.

This is (trying to be) glam..

When in actual fact I'm like omg dont fall. LOL.

I prefer the pat on method, to ensure even application on my face.
There is no tight feeling after the toner dries.

Step 3 - Nourishment

Oil Water Rose Lotion is our product of the moment.
This is an emulsion lotion - made up of 2 layers : oil and water.

The top layer contains Damask Rose oil, Argan oil, Olive oil and another 8 types of plant oils.
It combats the visible effects of aging, like fine lines and pigmentation.

The bottom layer contains Damask Rose water, which soothes skin.
It contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Damask Rose also provides a soothing aromatherapeutic effect.
Honestly it smells like Bandung. hahaha !
Fragrance is not too heavy.

Before use, shake the bottle until the lotion changes into white!
Apply 3 - 5 pumps of lotion directly to skin.

Step 4 - Protection

Water Cream Moisturizer is used.

The water-based moisturizer contains Moroccan Argan oil, which improves skin metabolism.
It is also to promote moisture retention, and protects against environmental pollutants such as dust.
Lavender oil is added for its calming effect, both on the skin and for aromatherapy.

For this product, the lavender scent is very overpowering. :x

Apply a pearl sized amount onto face, gently spreading it on the skin.
Its good that they provided a spatula for clean scooping. ;p

The cream should transform into water droplets upon application.
But unfortunately, all it did for me was leave a waxy feeling.
The waxy feeling lasted for 5 minutes, and my skin felt smooth to the touch after that.
Still, it was uncomfortable, so I'm probably going to skip the cream next time.
I have normal skin, so by experience I recommend the cream only for people with dry skin.

Can you see the waxy area?

Only one puny droplet of water. :x

If you wish to apply make-up, do so after your face is dry.

Before and after!

Don't think there is much visible difference, 

but in terms of feel, there was a good hydrating effect, despite the waxy feeling from the cream.

TAADAAA.
Four step pore care complete!
I wouldn't say its an easy four step pore care, hahahah.
To stick to this routine everyday for 28 days will be a challenge, but I will try!
Share with you guys the final result then. (:

My favourite item was the Oil-Water Rose Lotion.
I liked the scent, and the hydrating feeling it gave me.

Interested in trying out BLACK PAINT?

BLACK PAINT Easy Four Step Pore Care is available at the following places:

Takashimaya Basement Level 1
West Gate Isetan Basement Level 2
BLACK PAINT online website