Monday, April 30, 2018

Sephora Beauty Pass Exclusive Sale (May 3-6, 2018)


Did you hear about the latest secret Sephora Philippines private sale exclusive for gorgeous white, black and gold members? I guess, it wasn't a secret between us anymore! :P Save your favorites on your wish list now and get to receive 20% (black and gold) and 15% off (white) your makeup purchases this coming May 03-06, 2018! Guess it's time to stock up!

💕💕💕

Keep updated by following me on my social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theskincarefreak/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannapoleng/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannapoleng
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJZrWvwomBCAgC-JKhNe5A
Bloglovin: https://www.bloglovin.com/@hannapoleng
Fashiolista: http://www.fashiolista.com/#!/profile/hannapoleng/items

NBI Clearance Quick Online Renewal Option With Door-To-Door Delivery

Disclaimer: This is updated as of November 22, 2022. I am not in any way affiliated with NBI. Everything written here are solely based on my own experience.

NBI Clearance is considered as one of the valid certificates we could use here in the Philippines. It's one of the few valid I.D.s that are usually being asked when we do transactions, application for primary identification cards or even for verification purposes.

A lot of people are requesting for this on a daily basis for initial application and renewal, however, gone are the days when we have to fall in long queues just to have our documents printed. Fortunately, NBI launched a website that we can utilize to register an account with them with all our valid information. This is mainly to avoid the time-consuming filling out of personal information on the actual site. And imagine, with the use of just your laptop/smartphones and a stable connection, you can now register your information online hassle-free.

While there are a lot of step-by-step guides about NBI Clearance Application, I couldn't find any discussion or blogs about the convenience of renewing NBI Clearance online. I can tell because I had troubles figuring out if the NBI Clearance Online Renewal option (found on the upper righthand corner of the NBI website) is actually working or not. While I could patiently wait in long queues, it could save a great amount of time if I could renew my clearance without me having to repeat the steps all over again.


If you are someone who's about to have your first time getting an NBI Clearance, basically, you have to register online, follow normal sign up option, enter your information when prompted and select apply for clearance. You won't have any troubles as the website's interface is user-friendly.

Once you click the 'Ápply For Clearance' button, you'll be prompted as to which valid I.D. you will be presented to validate your information, schedule an appointment to an actual site and pay for the service fee (they offer different modes of payment). On the day of your scheduled appointment, you can only imagine how long the queue is and the dilemma won't end there. You will also have to take a photo, work on biometrics, sign up necessary documents and it will definitely cost you hours. It might even take longer if you don't register online.

In this blog though, we'll focus on NBI Clearance Online Renewal. Good news, all you need is your laptop and a stable internet connection. Ready your e-wallets or mobile banking apps if you want to do everything online.


How To Renew NBI Clearance The Easiest Way?

1. Go to NBI MAIN SITE. Look for NBI Clearance Online Renewal (on the upper righthand corner of the page). Note: There's no need to log in because you won't be able to see this option anymore. Please be advised too that this will only work for certificates issued October 16, 2016 and onwards.


2. A pop up box will appear after you clicked on it. It will prompt you to type in your NBI I.D. No. found in your old clearance. Yes, that's the long alpha-numeric characters. It's also case sensitive. Supply all other needed details such as your phone number, name and birthday. Click VERIFY.


3. You will have to choose an option to verify that this is truly your account. On the drop down button, you'll see 3 options. Choose whichever you want. In my case, I chose MOTHER'S INFORMATION. Supply the correct answer and hit VERIFY.



4. You will see the PAYMENT OPTION page with the price of the clearance and different modes of payment available. Please note that you will have to add an extra fee to use the e-payment service. You have the liberty to choose which payment method works best for you, you just have to click on it to get the reference number together with the additional steps.

In my case, I chose GCash. You will also get an SMS notification from NBI with the reference code. Paying through GCash app is also a breeze if this isn't your first time paying a biller on the app. Just make sure you typed in the correct reference number as failure to do so may cause delays or forfeiture of payment.




5. On the REFERENCE NUMBER page, there's two options on how you could get the clearance. You can come pick it up at the main office (no additional payment) or take advantage of their door-to-door delivery (be ready to pay the shipping fee). Click PROCEED.

DISCLAIMER NOTICE pop-up box will appear to which you'll just need to press AGREE.



6. You will be routed to their partner courier page which is dgi.deliverybox.ph so don't panic. Just click PROCEED after reading and then fill out your shipping details. For a more seamless and accurate delivery, you may even pin your preferred location.

Again, you'll just need to click PROCEED on the bottom part of the page and it will give you further instruction on the payment process. Please take note that you'll have to pay the clearance and shipping fee separately. Expect an e-mail from NBI too after successful payment and once your document has been processed and is ready for shipping. Just make sure to keep an eye on it.



That's basically everything! So easy to have your NBI Clearance renewed without you having to step outside your home. :D  Although you have to understand that it may take a while to be delivered. It took me less than a week to get my document though. If you are in a rush, this isn't the best option for you. 



Note: The NBI Clearance will only show all the information you entered when you initially created your account years back. The same information will display on your new clearance unless updated. If there's an information you would like to change, you will need to log in first and update your account. Although, I noticed that changing major information like address, must be done onsite.

That's pretty much everything you need to know! I never thought this was made possible. If you don't opt for the delivery and much preferred walking in (and saving for the additional fee on shipping), that's perfectly fine too. The process won't take as much time as during your initial application. Just go to the nearest NBI site and they would be willing to assist.

Facebook  Instagram  Twitter  Tumblr  Bloglovin  Fashiolista  Wattpad  Pinterest

Saturday, April 28, 2018

NYX Philippines Makeup Haul April 2018 (What You Probably Missed!)


Last April 25, 2018, we were overwhelmed by Lazada’s birthday blowout when millions of items were sold at bargain prices. Official brands were also participating on the event and I couldn’t just fathom how I managed to spend a few hundreds over makeups when I do not even need them badly. However, the inner makeup junkie in me just couldn't hold back! Here are the items I got from NYX at 40% off each plus a P500 voucher for every P2000 worth of items. You should expect to see these on my upcoming review blogs!

Package 1

Nyx Professional Makeup Gel Eyeliner and Smudger in Black (P276)
Nyx Professional Makeup Ombre Blush in Sweet Spring (P390)
Nyx Professional Makeup Gotcha Covered Concealer in Natural (P234)
Nyx Professional Makeup Stay Matte But Not Flat Foundation in Nude (384)
Nyx Professional Makeup Ombre Blush in Insta Flame (P390)
Nyx Professional Makeup No Filter Finishing Powder (P450)

Total = P2124 - P500 = P1624

Package 2

Nyx Professional Makeup Blotting Powder in Medium Dark (P390)
Nyx Professional Makeup High Definition Foundation in Sand Beige (P702)
Nyx Professional Makeup Eyebrow Cake Powder in Brunette (P234)
Nyx Professional Makeup Mineral Stick Foundation (P390)
Nyx Professional Makeup Total Control Drop Foundation in Vanilla (P450)

Total = P2166 - P500 = P1666

Overall, the transaction was super quick and I got all the items in a flash. What I don't like is the fact that I was given old stocks from 2015-2016! I am still waiting for my Maybelline and Loreal haul  though and I'm so excited! I thought I officially placed myself on a shopping ban but flashing red sales aren't something I would dare to miss. At least not now. What about you? Have you joined Lazada's Birthday Sale? What are the items included on your haul? Happy blogging!

💕💕💕

Facebook  Instagram  Twitter  Tumblr  Bloglovin  Fashiolista  Wattpad  Pinterest

Thursday, April 26, 2018

MAC #196 Synthetic Slanted Flat Top Foundation Brush Review: Is It Worth It?


MAC 196 Synthetic Slanted Flat Top Foundation Brush
Bought from an online shop
SRP: $35 (Around P1,800)

Claims
Achieve a naturally flawless finish by using the 196 Slanted Flat Top Foundation Brush. This ultra-smooth, round brush features short bristles and a flat slanted top that reaches each and every contour of the face. The brush is made of soft, synthetic fibres giving it a luxurious, silky yet supple feel. Its shortened, dense bristles allow for the highly controlled, quick and even application of a range of formulas including liquid, cream, gel and powder. The result is a smooth, buffed-out finish.
Being so obsessed with makeup brushes nowadays, I'm up for trying anything from any brands. What would make you not fall head over heels with them when they do have such sleek and sturdy handles and ferrules and the bristles are soft as baby's bum. And because almost half in my makeup stash are foundations, I decided to buy MAC 196 Synthetic Slanted Flat Top Foundation Brush. To be honest, I find it funny that I got my very first ever product from MAC, (okay, no judgement, I'm always broke af!) and it wasn't even a makeup but a brush! Still, I have been using this for a month now, alternating it with some of my buffer brushes every now and then and here's what I thought.


When I got this, I received the product as is, sealed in a plastic and the moment I held it, I know there was a reason why it's priced a bit expensively. It is sized smaller than my brushes from Sigma but the it makes it easier to work with. The size of the bristles aren't flimsy and huge to give me a hard time reaching every corner of my face nor too small to take me forever to blend. It has a weight to it and the matte handle with pecks of tiny shimmers look and feel very sturdy. It didn't have that sleek and posh kinda look Zoeva and Sigma has but it still look as high quality on its own. It also has that MAC 196 label imprinted on the handle--it's shiny and doesn't rub off even after several washes. There's a teeny bit word that says CHINA at the back of the handle which I don't know whether it's something to be amused or scared of. Nonetheless, I'll be focusing on what matters.

I would like to emphasize that the bristles of this brush are super soft and dense like crazy, I can barely compare it with anything else I have tried. I have always had this never-ending love for buffing brushes and though I love my buffer from Zoeva, I find my experience with Mac's a totally different thing. Sure, they are both soft and dense but I guess the way the latter was designed to be slanted makes a huge difference too. Also, it has shorter bristles so you have more control over it. The elevated part makes it easy for me to apply foundation even on the smallest contours of my face. I love that it is dense enough to pack foundation on my skin streak-fee which usually only a few sponges can do. 


Now, here are the things I find off-putting about it. First off, this foundation brush absorbs too much makeup. It could be because it has a lot more bristles that it soaks up more foundations too. That being said, the brush takes too much time and effort before it gets cleaned up because the makeup gets stuck in between bristles. Also, with regular use and washes, this brush barely retain its shape anymore. You really have to manually maneuver the bristles in one direction so it stays put.

I have tried this brush with both cream and liquid foundations and I must say that it pretty gets the job done quickly. However, I have read somewhere that some people rant how this foundation brush tends to be selective in terms of foundation's consistency. I think this brush is better for thicker formulations though. Nonetheless, it blends foundations like a dream.


Even with too many pros and cons, I still think that MAC #196 Synthetic Slanted Flat Top Foundation Brush is a good product without having to think of its price tag. However, there are still other buffer brushes out there, quality is almost at par or better, also get the job done but are priced more reasonably. I don't say don't buy it because you might miss the luxurious feel of the bristles on the skin. However, if you are low in budget but still would like to own quality foundation brushes, I'm pretty sure you can find something in the drugstore.

Have you tried MAC #196 Synthetic Slanted Flat Top Foundation Brush? Do you think it's worth it? Do share your comments down below! Happy blogging!

💕💕💕

Keep updated by following me on my social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theskincarefreak/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannapoleng/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannapoleng
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJZrWvwomBCAgC-JKhNe5A
Bloglovin: https://www.bloglovin.com/@hannapoleng
Fashiolista: http://www.fashiolista.com/#!/profile/hannapoleng/items

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

Pretty Secret Facial Powder Paper: Controls Shine + Instant Retouch


Pretty Secret Facial Powder Paper
Bought for:  P49 (60 sheets)
Bought from: Watsons

Last year, I reviewed about Pretty Secret Bamboo Charcoal, Tea Tree and Cool Mint Oil Blotting Papers and raved how these are such great products made of quality sheets that effectively remove oils without the pricey tags. Now, I've recently discovered another variant from the same brand, their Facial Powder Paper that claims to perform dual action (controls shine + instant retouch). It's basically a normal blotting sheet that is face powder-infused so when you dab it on your face, you take away and absorb the oils and the powder cling to your skin for a quick retouch. That's pretty smart. I have tried one of these before and it's pretty much the same with the one from Silk Secrets but a little bit cheaper...and perhaps better.


Packaging

As you can tell, it comes in typical cardboard packaging but I love how Pretty Secret made the design attractive and chic. It has complete labeling and information about the product including benefits, use, ingredients, date of expiration and manufacturing.


Overall Performance

The sheets aren't thin enough to easily tear when it absorbed too much oils. It smells like typical talc pressed powder which isn't bothersome for me at all. When you smoothe your fingers on the sheet, you get an orange-y powder which kinda turns me off. It's not as if as it imparts or add a strong color on your makeup but I would prefer if its transparent at least. Though the powder is orange-y, it does not contribute any coverage. However, it tends to worsen the look of the base by making it appear cakey and too flat. While I don't really buy that talcum powders are unsafe, I find it quite alarming that it has talc on it and Kaolin (a kind of clay which I find too mattifying) too. If you are not a fan, you wouldn't like it.


Everything's based on my personal preference, I guess. I don't prefer blotting sheets like these anymore. However, on days that I am makeup-free, I like using it because it blots away excess oil and prevent shine, making my skin look more decent. I just don't prefer it on top of makeup, that's it. For the price of P49, this is a convenient product to own especially if you are always on the rush. You can also spot this in almost all Watson stores nationwide.

Have you tried Pretty Secret Facial Powder Paper? Any thoughts?

💕💕💕

Keep updated by following me on my social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theskincarefreak/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannapoleng/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannapoleng
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJZrWvwomBCAgC-JKhNe5A
Bloglovin: https://www.bloglovin.com/@hannapoleng
Fashiolista: http://www.fashiolista.com/#!/profile/hannapoleng/items

Laneige Special Care Water Sleeping Mask Review (Delights, Pop! Holiday Edition)


Laneige Special Care Water Sleeping Mask, 70ml
Bought for: P900 | Original Price: P1000 and above
Bought from: a Korean shop

I have been having a hard time dealing with breakouts and blemishes (from previous chicken pox infection), and using countless products that seem to not work great together took its toll on me. I had a major tweak in my skincare routine just the start of April 2018 wherein my once multiple skincare steps dropped to at least four--cleanse, tone, moisturize and spot treat scarring with the famous Sebo De Macho. What has been a useless tub of humectant suddenly became a holy grail for me. Yep, I am talking about Laneige Special Care Water Sleeping Mask.

I have been using this for a good couple of months now and during the first month, it seemed to be just not working. I have heard good stuff about this and though I didn't expect it to work like magic, I had huge hopes for this. I speculated it was because it didn't suit the other products I was using and now, I guess I was right. I had to stop using it for less than two weeks (end of May-April) when I had the infection and mainly because I needed something soothing other than my Aloe Vera Soothing Gel from Serafica, I decided to give this a second shot. I guess it was the perfect time to assert whether it's working or not without the use of anything else other than a trusted cleanser from Cetaphil. Turns out, it works!


Claims (as per Laneige)
1. Skin purifying effect: SLEEP-TOX™ technology purifies skin during sleep, keeping it in optimum condition. SLEEP-TOX™ technology’s purifying effects help to rejuvenate and normalize skin that is often fatigued and sensitized by stress during the day. This helps the skin to achieve a well-rested appearance the next morning.
2. Skin moisturizing: MOISTURE WRAP™ helps skin retain moisture throughout the night. The dense beta-glucan moisturizing shield (network) consists of active agents such as Hydro Ion Mineral Water, evening primrose root extract, Hunza apricot extracts, and more so that skin fully absorbs the goodness during 8 hours of sleep.
3. Skin soothing: contains skin-soothing agents that are gentle on sleeping skin, helping it recover overnight. Ultra-mild, safe formula that can be worn overnight / Non-comedogenic, sensitivity tested.
4. Aromatic SLEEPSCENT™ helps you relax during sleep. SLEEPSCENT™ specially developed for Laneige Water Sleeping Mask is an AMOREPACIFIC original, allowing skin to relax and rest and boosting its ability to regenerate.

How To Use

Step 1. After washing the face at night, apply toner and emulsion right before going to bed; Step 2. Dispense an appropriate amount (2.5cm in diameter) and apply on the tip of the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin in dots; breathe in the scent for 3 seconds; Step 3. Spread gently along the texture of your face using outward strokes; Step 4. After the product is absorbed into skin, leave it on overnight without washing the face. (Wash the face the next morning.)

Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Root Extract, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Fruit Extract, Beta-Glucan, Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Chloride, Potassium Alginate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Polysorbate 20, Dimethicone, Dimethiconol, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Propanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Stearyl Behenate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, HYDROXYPROPYL BISPALMITAMIDE MEA, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Alcohol, 1, 2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance, CI 42090




Packaging

Housed in a durable, chic-looking jar, it's but a bit bulky considering that it has only 70ml of products inside. The whole exterior is made up of high quality plastic and the cap was sort of frosted. If you are bringing it to getaways, you might want to store in a cushion-y pouch or handle it with extra care as it's also prone to cracks and dents. Mine's in a limited edition packaging so it has some party popper designs but naturally, the product just come in a simple blue jar.

It also has an accompanying spatula that makes it hygienic to use as you don't have to dip your fingers inside--who knows what and how much bacteria you're mixing on! What isn't so nice about it is that it lacks informational facts on the tub itself though that's where the box came so useful. Good thing, it displays the expiration date on the bottom.


Texture, Scent and Ease of Application

The product is aqua blue in color and has a gel-type formulation that glides easily on the skin. It claims to be a sleeping mask so the texture is way too different from your usual face mask. First, it's not oily nor sticky and gets drank by the skin without any uncomfortable residue. It does not transfer on any fabric so you can really sleep on it all night. It isn't too light either to pass up as a daily moisturizer. That makes it suitable for every skin type, I guess. It's like a typical moisturizer that does something more. It replenishes moisture, makes skin look healthy and gives a brightening effect as you sleep. Smells just subtle, fresh and soothing, you can can catch a whiff of the aroma to also get a good night's sleep.


Overall Performance

I've talked about Laneige Special Care Water Sleeping Mask in my Instagram post where I told everyone that I use it after I got my chickenpox to hasten the healing process. I am using this product nonstop every night since then and I really see a huge improvement on overall texture of my skin. My scars seemed to lighten and became a lot less red. I know chicken pox scar appearance heal overtime but it's barely a month! My brother who had the infection prior to me, still have dark reddish brown scars but mine's look more healed. The scars still are noticeable and pinkish but I don't think people would look at them in dismay since I now have healthier-looking skin. My overall complexion looks better now  and I even got a compliment from a friend who said "Kumikinis na ulit muka mo ahhh!" (which of course, not in an exaggerated way because they are still way too obvious). It's just that I wasn't the only one who's noticing how effective this product is in giving that glow we need.

Do take note that I have super oily skin and moisturizing products tend to trigger sebum production. I'm glad to inform you, guys, that this product didn't do anything like that nor clog the pores. I recently had my period and although zits do still pop like crazy, they are fewer and smaller now. It does not claim to do that but since it's a significant effect, I thought it's worth mentioning. All the active ingredients really do a great job in smoothening the skin!


Overall Thoughts

If you have dry and sensitive skin, this is great to moisturize your skin and prevent any flakiness. If you have oily skin, don't worry because it's gel-based so it's oil-free and lightweight. This product is worthy of being recommended whatever skin type you have as it's gentle and non-stinging. It's a great night moisturizer to soothe and heal dull and tired-looking skin so you wake up as if you had a complete 8-hours of sleep! There's a reason why it's a holy grail for me and I'll surely repurchase!

💕💕💕

Keep updated by following me on my social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theskincarefreak/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannapoleng/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannapoleng
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJZrWvwomBCAgC-JKhNe5A
Bloglovin: https://www.bloglovin.com/@hannapoleng
Fashiolista: http://www.fashiolista.com/#!/profile/hannapoleng/items

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Sale Alert: Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipsticks Are On BOGO!


I rarely stop by Anastasia Beverly Hills' website and see sales like what they have right now. I just told everyone I'm currently at a no-buy stage but what ABH has made me contemplate whether or not I splurge for their cult-favorite Liquid lipsticks. With 46 shades to choose from, it's impossible you don't find something suitable for whatever purpose the lipsticks are intended for. I'm pretty sure whether it's for daily, night time or even momentous use, you can definitely grab a stick or two to match your outfit. No excuses!

Imagine, getting two liquid lipsticks for the price of one, you surely wouldn't get a deal like this from anywhere else. Now, should we go take advantage of it? Just like most good things, this sale won't last!

💕💕💕

Keep updated by following me on my social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theskincarefreak/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannapoleng/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannapoleng
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJZrWvwomBCAgC-JKhNe5A
Bloglovin: https://www.bloglovin.com/@hannapoleng
Fashiolista: http://www.fashiolista.com/#!/profile/hannapoleng/items

Lazada Turning 6: Birthday Sale Starts at April 25!


Being a huge e-commerce site with probably hundreds of partner official stores, Lazada boasts of overwhelming sales of up to 90% this coming April 25-27, 2018 in celebration of their 6th birthday! I can't wait because I love shopping beauty essentials from my favorite local and international brands and I just heard they will have deals of up to 50% off. To make everything extra special, Lazada offers numerous deals in the form of sale and voucher codes (you can find it anywhere on Google or all over the website) that you have to watch out for for maximum savings!

To summarize, you have to watch out particularly for:
  • Deals and sales of up to 90% off
  • Sale items from every category you can think of whether its for fashion, beauty, home and lifestyle, electronics, fashion and many more
  • Cashbacks (check Lazada daily promotions)
  • Vouchers and coupon codes
  • Participating official stores
  • Flash Sales
  • and probably a lot more surprises that awaits!

To give you a heads up, fellow beauty junkies, watch out for these official stores:
  • Maybelline, Loreal, The SM Store, Nivea, Vaseline, Ever Bilena, Watsons, Celeteque, NYX, Pink Sugar, Belo, Garnier, Happy Skin, Olay, Ponds and a lot more!

Who's excited to do a haul? Me! Let me know if you are participating! Happy blogging!


💕💕💕

Keep updated by following me on my social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theskincarefreak/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannapoleng/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannapoleng
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJZrWvwomBCAgC-JKhNe5A
Bloglovin: https://www.bloglovin.com/@hannapoleng
Fashiolista: http://www.fashiolista.com/#!/profile/hannapoleng/items

Tuesday, April 17, 2018

Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner Review


Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Bought for: Sale at P500/150ml
Bought from: an online shop

I'm pretty sure I need not to have an extravagant opening lines to introduce the Korean brand, COSRX. Most, if not all, beauty enthusiasts rave about how efficient their products are with the use of minimal but of course, clinically-tested ingredients that caters everyone's need for good skin care. And mostly because of curiosity, I had to use them myself to gauge whether they are really worth the hype or not. I have already reviewed three Cosrx products by this time (Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser, Mela 14 White Ampule and One Step Original Clear Pads) but have tried a lot--overall, I do think they are just average products with only a few standouts.

Today, I'll be talking a few things about Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner which is something that never left my vanity. It took me a while to get ready and say something sensible about it just because I couldn't believe I'd like it after being disappointed with the aforementioned products. It does not do much, to be honest, but no matter how I think about what made me like it so much, it just leads me to the fact that everything about it is simple yet it works behind the scenes. Does it makes sense? Well, it probably should as you read on!



Claims (as per Beautymnl)
A gently clarifying and exfoliating toner for a healthy complexion. Natural AHA and BHA content clears away dead skin cells; mineral water boosts skin health; allantoin hydrates skin and keeps it moist and smooth; helps prevents whiteheads and blackheads caused by lack of moisture and slow cell turnover. Perfect for coarse, flaky skin.
Ingredients
Mineral Water, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Lactate, Glycolic Acid, Water, Betaine Salicylate, Allantoin, Panthenol, Ethyl Hexanediol


Packaging

Comes in a simple spray type bottle, this product displays minimal information on the bottle as minimal as its ingredient list. Good thing, it came in a box that you can read beforehand to gain more information about the product. Check the bottom of the bottle and you will see that it has a long shelf life. The packaging diffuses the product easily on the skin especially if you use it as a mist.

How I Use It

I mostly dispenses the product on a cotton pad and then apply gently on the skin in an upward motion. This 'double cleanse' the skin and removes any residue of dirt and oil. I can also spray it directly on my face a few inches away and use an instant refresher for a hydrated and balanced complexion. Since I am using an acid product, I make sure to slather a generous amount of sunscreen to prevent any adverse reaction.

Texture, Scent and Ease of Application

Water-y and clear in texture, this product smells barely anything too. I thought it would reek of something strong but thinking about how it was made of only a few ingredients now, I think silly of myself. It's quick-drying and is lightweight on the skin with a hydrating feeling.


Overall Performance

In a nutshell, this product does what it was labeled for. This is the very first product I have tried from Cosrx and it's just among the few I picked to remain. I have been using this toner longer than a month and the longer I use it, the more I appreciate how effective of a skincare product it is. I'm sure I've mentioned that this product gets  absorb by the skin pretty easily making it suitable for us with oily skin. It doesn't leave any sticky residue, however, there's the good feeling that it's there giving your skin a hydrated layer.

I had a chickenpox infection a few weeks ago and this was the only product I use to moisturize my skin when I was on my 'healing' stage. Since the bumps are quite sensitive, I only have to spray it on my face and voila, I'm instantly hydrated. It doesn't sting as well even I had chicken pox on and this just proved how mild this toner is. I thought that being an exfoliant with AHA and BHA acids on, it will tend to create some tingling effects but guess what, I was mistaken.

With its low pH formula, this toner balances the skin and prep it for the next skin care step. I noticed how my skin gradually felt so smooth and soft and free from any flakiness and roughness and all the moisturizers I put on seem to get absorbed even better even makeup. It helps reduce the cakiness of any foundation which is a big deal. With religious use, I also noticed a big difference in my overall complexion. After my chickenpox infection, my skin is now clearer-looking and my complexion seem to improve a lot. The AHA and BHA exfoliants in it really work hard.

BHA a.k.a Salicylic Acid (acne-fighting products mostly has it!) is usually friendly on my skin so I trust most of the products that is infused with this acid. The best part is that I get less and less breakouts and clogged pores with continuous use. I still get them once in a while but they were tiny and that is mainly because I have lousy eating and sleeping habits.


Overall Thoughts

This product is gentle enough that it's probably suitable for any skin type whether you have dry, sensitive or combination skin. If you have super dry skin though, it's hydrating properties wouldn't be enough. It does not change your skin a great deal as well for it certainly does not contain a strong concentrated formula of both AHA and BHA. However, it's best to use for mild exfoliation and preparation before putting on your beloved treatments.

This has become a holy grail product for me and I would surely repurchase. I think patience and religious use are needed to make this product work best. If you expect an overnight miracle, this isn't for you.

Have you tried Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner? How do you find it?

💕💕💕

Keep updated by following me on my social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theskincarefreak/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannapoleng/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannapoleng
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJZrWvwomBCAgC-JKhNe5A
Bloglovin: https://www.bloglovin.com/@hannapoleng
Fashiolista: http://www.fashiolista.com/#!/profile/hannapoleng/items

Thursday, April 12, 2018

Isah's Christening At DADS World Buffet


Last April 08, 2018, I was invited to Adrian's cousin's Christening at Santo Domingo Church and the reception was at DADS World Buffet. We were already there before 11:00 AM so we waited until they allow us on by 11:00 AM. The buffet would last until 2:30 PM. We were too hungry but I still had enough time taking photos of most of the cuisines that intrigued me lol.


Me together with Adrian's relatives


To be honest, buffets aren't my thing because I'm such a slow eater and my tummy can't take too much food. But then who am I to complain right? I mean after choosing over hundreds of popular cuisines from all over the world. Whether you are craving for Asian, Mediterranean, or American food, they got it all for you! (Odiba, lakas maka-SM!). They have carving station, seafood grill, all around the world cuisines, Kamayan and Saisaki Buffets, and loads of drinks! I can't even tell which my favorites are because I got a lot!


Supplies of calories, say you? Haha! Their bagoong and green mangoes are so satisfying!



For vegetarians and simply veggie-lovers!



If you love watching Korean dramas, time to snack on some of your Oppa's favorites!


My personal choice are, of course, Italian cuisines. They also have other Italian cusines in bite-size! So cute!









They have huge selections of pastries and desserts! I haven't gotten to the dessert part because after finishing two rounds, I gave up! An also, I needed to go home and get some sleep 'cause I was too tired and sleepy. :'(



And of course, the meals my tummy endured with a few bites from Adri's choices. Haha! These are huge servings, mind you! I liked the smoked salmon and I'm craving for it right now!

Have you been here at DADS World Buffet? You can visit them at SM Megamall, Glorietta 3, Edsa Manila and West Avenue (which we have been) if you haven't. What are your favorites?

💕💕💕

Keep updated by following me on my social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theskincarefreak/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannapoleng/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannapoleng
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJZrWvwomBCAgC-JKhNe5A
Bloglovin: https://www.bloglovin.com/@hannapoleng
Fashiolista: http://www.fashiolista.com/#!/profile/hannapoleng/items