Clinique Free Gift

Cetaphil Baby Range

Made in Germany 🇩🇪

I have heard of this brand when my stepmother used to have skin problems and the doctor suggested to use this face wash. It has no fragrance and very suitable for troubled skin conditions.

A couple of years ago I saw the introduction of the baby range. I have bought the baby lotion but it was too watery so I ended up not really using it.

Recently my second baby have very dry skin on the scalp with some scab flakes. I suspected because of the baby shampoo that I’m currently use so I decided to change over to a new one. Since I have some trial size Cetaphil baby I decided to use it. It actually improved after the first wash and three days later the dry skin and scab on he scalp is almost completely gone.

It could be a coincidence or it actually works but if I have this problem again I will definitely use this brand.

Missha: Time Revolution Night Repair Borabit Ampoule

Made in Korea 🇰🇷

Over 12 years ago I have encountered the brand Missha, it was also my first step into a bit of skincare. At that time I only know about cleanser, toner and lotion. By now the Korean have introduced oil cleanser, foam cleanser, toner, essence, ampoule, serum, lotion, eye cream, moisturiser cream, sunscreen/sleep mask into their skincare routine. That’s 10 steps in comparison to 3 basic one. I am not sure if it’s just for marketing or it actually works.

Missha used to be an affordable brand for students, I am not sure when it has becoming more expensive. All the lines I used to see selling has been discontinued and replaced by new lines.

This is my first ampoule, it is to be used between the essence and serum, to boost the absorption of targeted treatment (as I know of).

This ampoule is thicker than the Korean essence but similar to the brand L’Occitane essence. It is lighter than some serums. It is easy to absorb on the skin when applied. I do like using it although I’m quite skeptical about its effectiveness.

When you look around the ingredients, there seems to be millions of things in there. Will it do the work? Who knows? But it’s the reason for its price 😁

I have read a lot of positive feedback on this product and it is a nice ampoule to add on but I can’t guarantee the end results.

Product Description

This night-time ampoule contains a rich cocktail of fermented products (4 types of Ferment Lactobacillus Complex containing Purple Energy Lactobacillus Ferment Ingredients), notably Bifida Ferment Lysate, which is a fermented yeast that helps reduce signs of aging and improve skin’s elasticity. While repairing skin damage, this ampoule also helps to hydrate and brighten to create a more even skin tone. Gentle enough even for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Highly concentrated essential ampoule to help make sleek and firm skin with translucent tone and healthiness by improving skin condition.

• Wrinkle Reparing & Whitening Cosmetic
• Skin Safety Test Completed
• Clinical Test Completed
• Skin Damage, Elasticity, Tone Improvement
• Against Animal Testing

Ingredients

Water, bifida ferment lysate, glycereth-26, sorbus commixta extract, juniperus chinensis xylem extract, bis-peg-18 methyl ether diemthyl silane, butylene glycol, glycerin, niacinamide, leuconostoc ferment filtrate, betaine, grifola frondosa (maitake) ophioglossum vulgatum extract, ferment filtrate, lactobacillus/rice ferment filtrate, portulaca oleracea extract, sodium hyaluronate, chomomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, hydrolyzed rice extract, sea water, carthamus tinctorius (safflower) oleosomes, hydrolyzed extensin, adenosine, daucus carota staiva (carrot) root extract, vaccinium angustifolium (blueberry) fruit extract, beta vulgaris (beet) root extract, aronia arbutifolia extract, brassica oleracea capitata (cabbage) leaf extract, echium plantagineum seed oil, ascorbyl tetrisopalmitate lactobacillus ferment, lactococcus ferment lysate, manilkara multinervis leaf extract, theobroma cacao (cocoa) seed extract, cassia alata leaf extract, laminaria digitata extract, saacharomyces ferment filtrate, lactobacillus/soybean ferment extract, saccharomyces/viscum album (mistletoe) ferment extract, yeast ferment extract, pogostemon cablin oil, pseudoalteromonas ferment extract, cardiospermum halicacabum flower/leaf/vine extract, helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil unsaponifiables alpha-glucan oligosaccharide, limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil, hydrolyzed wheat protein, beta-sitosterol, panthenol, hydrolyzed soy protein, ubiquinone, macadamia ternifolia seed oil, retinol, cucumsis melo (melon) fruit extract, biotin, brassica campestris (rapeseed) sterol, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, amaranthus caudatus seed extract, tripeptide-10 citrulline, acetyl hexapeptide-8, copper tripeptide-1, tripeptide-1, acacia arabica stem bark extract, cholesterol, glyceryl linolenate, glyceryl linolenate, glyceryl linoleate, glyceryl arachidonate, cylcopentasiloxane, ethyl hexanediol, diemthicone, peg-11 methyl ether dimethicone, peg-40 hydrogenated castor oil, ppg-26-buteth-26, poylsorbate 20, carbomer, glyceryl carpylate, triethanolamine, dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer, octyldodecanol, xanthan gum, dipropylene glycol, cyclomethicone, hydrogenated lecithin, disodium edtam dextrin, laurly methacrylate/glycol dimethacrylate crosspolymer, glyceryl polyacrylate, dimethiconol, propylene glycol, ceteth-24, choleth-24, hydroxypropyltrimonium maltodextrin crosspolymer, cetyl phosphate, caprylic/carpic triglyceride lecithin, peg-5 rapeseed sterol, bht, ceteth-3, ceteth-5, silica, tocopheryl acetate, phenoxyethanol.

Tonymoly: Pureness 100 Masks

Made in Korea 🇰🇷

These sheet masks come in variety of:

• Hyaluronic acid: hydrating
• Shea butter: moisturing
• Pearl: brightening
• Collagen: elasticity
• Placenta: strengthen skin barrier
• Caviar: nutrition
• Red ginseng: shine
• Propolis: skin soothing
• Snail: skin damage care
• Green tea: skin soothing

I have only try the placenta mask sheet. The texture of the mask is different from the other masks I have used. It looks like a cellulose gauze sheet but very soft on the skin. More likely breathable. The sheet itself is moist with essence and once applied it has a very cool feeling which lasts for a very long time. I would suggest using them on hot summer days.

It is hard to assess the usefulness of this mask, that is strengthening the skin barrier because you can’t see the results straight away. One can only have hope and faith that it will do the job. Otherwise enjoy some relaxing time.

Ariul: 7 Days Mask

Made in Korea 🇰🇷

Recently the sheet masks have become a hype and even features on the morning shows and television interviews. This is also a big wave for the Asians when the actress Fan Bing Bing revealed she used it at least once a day.

For me I can only only afford to use it once in a while whenever I have a chance because of my two young boys.

Every masks have wonderful descriptions about its benefits but it’s hard to see the effectiveness straight away.

These range of masks from Ariul come in set of 7. I have only tried the bamboo water mask and so far I do like it. More or so as an indulgence for relaxation.

The mask fits perfectly onto the face. It has a nice light fragrance. The sheet itself is soft and smooth on your face. It’s very hydrating, with cooling effects from the beginning when you put it on until you take it off.

I wouldn’t mind using it again.

Product Description

Green tea: Full of antioxidants like green tea extract with natural caffeine and vitamins, skin is balanced and gently exfoliated with a mattifying effect for a smoother, even complexion. The cellulose material of the mask retains moisture so your mask won’t dry out. It also conforms and adheres to skin for optimal absorption of the serum.

Avocado: Nourishing avocado extract is filled with vitamins and antioxidants to not only contribute to building healthy skin but to also maintain healthy skin. The cellulose material of the mask retains moisture so your mask won’t dry out. It also conforms and adheres to skin for optimal absorption of the serum. Ideal for lackluster and/or sensitive skin.

Bamboo water: Moisturizing bamboo water, full of amino acids and minerals, hydrates skin while defending against the signs of aging. The cellulose material of the mask retains moisture so your mask won’t dry out. It also conforms and adheres to skin for optimal absorption of the serum. Formulated without mineral oil, artificial coloring or additives.

Lemon: Rejuvenating lemon in this sheet mask helps brighten dull skin, scars and dark spots while improving oiliness for an overall smoother, more radiant complexion. The cellulose material of the mask retains moisture so your mask won’t dry out. It also conforms and adheres to skin for optimal absorption of the serum.

Pomegranate: Vitamin and antioxidant-rich pomegranate serum helps to firm and improve overall radiance for healthier, glowing skin. The cellulose material of the mask retains moisture so your mask won’t dry out. It also conforms and adheres to skin for optimal absorption of the serum. Formulated without mineral oil, artificial coloring or additives.

Aloe: To help reduce redness and smooth out tired skin, soothing aloe calms and revives skin that is visibly overworked from environmental stressors or lack of sleep. The cellulose material of the mask retains moisture so your mask won’t dry out. It also conforms and adheres to skin for optimal absorption of the serum.

Tea tree: to combat acne and blemishes, tea tree oil extract gently soothes irritated skin without causing dryness, peeling or redness, resulting in a clearer, calmer complexion. The cellulose material of the mask retains moisture so your mask won’t dry out. It also conforms and adheres to skin for optimal absorption of the serum.

Living Nature: Sample Set

Made in New Zealand 🇳🇿

Set includes:

• Revitalising cleanser
• Extra hydrating toning gel
• Nourishing day cream

I have been quite impressed with natural skincare from New Zealand. Most of their products that I have tried or used, I really like it. However I was quite disappointed with these products.

The cleanser is very creamy just like other cream cleanser so there is no wow factor to comment on. It’s ok to use, no negative thoughts.

The toning gel is thick like a moisturiser, it’s nowhere near a toner or essence or a serum, not even a gel. It should be used as a cream.

My most disappointment is in the day cream. It is quite thick to put on your face, so it took very long time to massage it out evenly. But the worst came when I put the BB cream over. With my other moisturisers, there are no problems but with this, once I applied the BB cream, it started to peel off clumps like you are peeling off dead skin cells when exfoliating.

To be honest, I won’t be buying these products. I appreciate for the samples but it does not suit my skin.

L’Occitane: Pivoine Subline Perfecting Mist

Made in France 🇫🇷

I have heard a lot about face mists and it’s a must have in your handbag especially during summer.

This is my first face mist. I love the soft peony fragrance. The mist itself is very refreshing. I often use this as a substitute for make-up fix as I used to buy another brand and I I sprayed it on after putting on my make-up, my face was having white blotches and the make-up was ruined, I have to go and washed my face 😔. This mist works perfectly fine.

However, as I read the description of the product, this mist does not reduced pores or make the skin radiant. It only works as refreshing your skin and does not affect your make-up if you want to freshen up your face during the day.

Product Description

Captured in an ultra-fine, delicately scented beauty mist, peony extract reveals instant beauty-enhancing effect. Immediately, skin is refreshed, appearance of pores look reduced, skin seems refined. Skin is beautified. Immediate visible results on pores and skin refining. Radiant skin tone and make up fix. 8-hour hydration

Swissa: The Secret of the Himalayan Forever Young Moisturizing Creme

Made in the USA 🇺🇸

Just by reading the name I am already intrigued, it sounds so mystical. I really like the bottle, it is like a bauble, you open by twisting the middle.

The cream is softly fragrance with citrus scent. The cream is silky soft and feels very refreshing when applied to the face.

I bought this one about 10 years ago and I am not sure if it is still available.

It is a beautiful cream to use.

Product Description

This rich Moisturizing Cream contains Tibetan Goji Berry and Himalayan Apricot Oil which help to restore the skin’s natural moisture levels, leaving it soft, smooth and re-hydrated, giving the skin a more radiant and youthful glow.

Ingredients

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Hypnea Musciformis Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Sargassum Filipendula Extract, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Hyaluronic Acid, Silk Amino Acids, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Echinacea Angustifolia Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Goji Berry Extract, Gellidiela Acerosa Extract, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium PCA, Allantoin, Panthenol, Glycereth 26, C 12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth 20, Carbomer, Urea, Trehalose, Polyquaternium-51, Sodium Hyaluronate, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Tetrasodium EDTA, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance

Antipodes: Joyous Protein-Rich Night Replenish Serum

Made in New Zealand 🇳🇿

This is my second serum product from Antipodes. I have encountered with the Worship serum earlier but this serum is totally different.

It is an oil-based serum but absorbs very well and does not leave you with the oily feel. I don’t use this serum often but when I use it, I use it with the derma roller and followed by another water-based serum such as the Sukin one. I found them work together very well and leaves my skin feeling smooth and non oily.

Product Description

A silky night serum that helps rescue dry, damaged skin. Himalayan goji berry boasts up to 19 amino acids to help optimise your skin’s appearance. Red raspberry seed oil blends with New Zealand blackcurrant, a rich source of essential fats like gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). South Pacific hibiscus flower freshens your complexion, while berry fragrance imparts pure joy.

Ingredients

Ribes nigrum (blackcurrant fruit oil), lycium barbarum (goji fruit extract), rubus idaeus (raspberry seed oil), hibiscus sabdarifa (hibiscus flower), gandoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom), fragrances of berries, d-limonene, geraniol, linalool, citronella

ELEMENTS OF BEAUTY: Goji berry, Wild blackcurrant, Hibiscus flower. PURE PLANT FRAGRANCE: Wild blackcurrant.

L’Oréal: Pure Clay Masks & Sugar Scrubs

Made in Germany 🇩🇪

When the pure clay masks from L’Oréal just came out, there were only 3 types: charcoal, eucalyptus and red algae. Lately they added the yuzu lemon and marine algae.

• Charcoal (mask) – detoxifies & brightens
• Eucalyptus (purity mask) – purifies, mattifies
• Red algae (glow mask) – brightens, exfoliates
• Yuzu lemon (brightening mask) – illuminates & evens skin tone
• Marine algae (anti-blemish mask) – clears blackheads & tightens pores

I have only tried the original 3 types but because I am a sucker for the collection so I bought the whole lot.

Recently I saw the introduction of the sugar scrub, so once again I bought the whole collection of three different types.

• Glow scrub – brightens, boosts radiance
• Nourishing scrub – softens, soothes dryness
• Purifying scrub – purifies, clears blackheads

With the three clay masks I have used, I prefer the eucalyptus over the other two. It is quite refreshing. The only setback I found with the masks is they are tedious to wash off compare to mud masks.

As I have confessed before I am obsessed with face masks although I can’t prove the benefits of them. However it is a nice indulgence 😁.

I can’t comment on the sugar scrubs because I haven’t try it. I have only heard about it recently and I know that the Korean skincare regime has a whole lot of different sugar scrubs on the market.