Megan Beauty Detox and Lightening Peel-Off Clay Mask Review

Megan Detox and Lightening Peel-Off Clay Mask

Bought for: P180/6 packs

Bought from: Megan Official Store

I've tried a few peel-off masks before like the ones from PILATEN, IWHITE, BEAUTYFIX and VEDETTE. I've had good experience with these ones and the question is...was it the same with Megan's? We'll know as you read further after the short break!

I'm sure you've heard of Megan before. I am just not sure if they are a local brand but their product says 'Made in P.R.C' (China). Their products are quite affordable as expected and although I didn't have high hopes, I was expecting to have at least some nice experience with the product.

CLAIMS

The claim is very short and precise which is "...to help remove impurities and lighten skin, leaving your skin looking fresh and glowing." We all know what clay masks are for--detoxifies the skin from within and also helps keep oil at bay.

PACKAGING

I am glad that aside from the bulky tubes, Megan also sells their product in sachet forms. I just think it's very convenient and very economical to use. The idea of sachets are really good for those who would like to try a product without committing to buy full-sized. And to be honest, I'm glad I didn't spend a few extra bucks for the full-size because I don't think I'll ever be needing a backup.

SCENT, TEXTURE AND CONSISTENCY

The mask has the typical clay mask shade in Black and reeks of strong scent of alcohol and some indistinguishable chemicals. I  find it so pungent and take note, I'm not even that sensitive to scents. I'm sure there is a huge amount of alcohol on it and the ingredient list is a proof. Despite the presence of alcohol, this mask takes forever to dry. The formula is so thick and creamy, it's a pain to apply and blend evenly on the skin. Usually, a peel-off masks in sachet form is enough for about two uses but this product is so hard to blend that you really have to pile it on very thick for it to finally work.

 

PERFORMANCE

So...let me tell you what happened. After about an hour, it was time to remove the mask. I started from the bottom and  the entire time I was just crying while peeling it off. It was so painful. The density of my hair on my face may be too plenty but it doesn't feel this painful whenever I use other peel-off masks. Okay, let's say it adheres to the skin very well. That leaves us to the expectation that it's effective in removing all the impurities I have in my skin, right? Guess I was wrong. All it did remove were just tiny hairs I had in my face. My skin felt so sore right after and it was so red all over.

When I tried to wash my face later that night, it burns. I wake up the next day looking like a grease ball and there were a few tiny pus-filled breakouts on my upper lip, cheeks and forehead. I usually get those reaction from trying something out that either doesn't work or does irritate my skin. Either way, the experience wasn't very nice. I don't even want to do it the second time.

I am sure you can tell I didn't like the product. Although I still have the Gold Collagen variant and I am still willing to test that one out. Hopefully, it has a different scent and I hope it's milder than this. I'll update you guys on that. Anyway, I forgot to greet you Happy Halloween! Enjoy your days off! :*

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Snoe Body Ritual Recipes 5 in 1 Scrumptious Body Tonic in Cotton Candy

I rarely review fragrances because goodness gracious, I suck at describing scents. You might think not to proceed reading but please don't hold it against me, it isn't just my thing lol! Don't dare leave me yet because it's something interesting and innovative, you wouldn't want to skip. It's a product from Snoe Beauty, which is a local brand famous for their effective hair, skin and body care products. Okay, I'm sure I'm boring you now with unnecessary words, so yeah, it's this Snoe Body Ritual Recipes 5 in 1 Scrumptious Body Tonic in Cotton Candy.

I haven't read any reviews about this product yet and it's something you don't usually see on social media advertisements and the like either. Allow me to make one. :P It would be a privilege to talk about this product so here goes nothing.

Snoe Body Ritual Recipes 5 in 1 Scrumptious Body Tonic in Cotton Candy

Bought for: P239 | SRP: P399/120ml

Bought from: Snoe Beauty

I got this on sale for 40% off during Snoe's online sale. It was one of my best buy last month. If only I knew the sale will end yesterday, I could have hoard some more. Anyway, the packaging is really cute. It's something that's very light and I like that I can bring it everywhere I go. I mean the plastic spritz bottle is very typical but Snoe doesn't disappoint with their playful designs. Cuteness overload, you say?

According to Snoe, this is basically a body tonic that does more than make you smell great. It can also moisturize your skin, work as an antioxidant and antibacterial product and is loaded with skincare ingredients like Witch Hazel, Aloe Leaf Juice, Goji Berry, Mangosteen and Black Raspberry known to target multiple skincare issues.

We all know that that does not mean we can put it to our face directly because no, I just don't think I'll ever do that. It just made me think that if ever I accidentally spritz it on anywhere in my body, it's purely safe. Other fragrances tend to dry the skin so I'm happy Snoe came up with this product that can also add moisture to the skin. To be honest, I tried spraying it on my neck and upper body and I'm surprised that the claim is true. I mean for a fragrance, would you really expect that? It's also nice to know that it has anti-bacterial properties that would be perfect for someone like me who commutes everyday.

Now, for the scent. I'm sure it reeks of sweetness, something like concentrated scent of Marsh Mallows we all love since we're kids. Just like all fragrances, the scent subsides and becomes better as time passes by especially when it got mixed with our own natural odor. It lasted me about 5 hours which is pretty much a decent staying power for something this affordable.

Overall, I honestly love this body tonic. It's the type of scent I've been looking for years but to no avail. I couldn't just splurge for expensive perfumes for myself so I'm glad Snoe made it so affordable. This is so energizing. I would definitely repurchase by the time I ran out and probably would cart some other interesting variants for comparison. So if you prefer sweet fragrances, this is something you have to consider.

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Hada Labo Perfect White Arbutin Lotion and Cleanser Starter Collection Review

Hada Labo Perfect White Arbutin Lotion and Cleanser

Bought for: P255

Bought from: an online shop

I have never tried any Japanese skincare brand much less anything from Hada Labo before. Though being the curious skincare freak as I always am, I've been hearing good stuff about the brand which is why I got these Perfect White Arbutin Lotion and Cleanser duo in travel sizes. Something's holding me back from purchasing full sizes, might have been all those items waiting to be tried in my stash lol.

One thing I honestly find interesting about the brand is that they have limited skincare line that targets different skin concern and there are few products to choose from per collection. I'm a huge sucker for anything basic and simple which is why. I hate to complicate my routine so I'm really glad I've discovered standalone products that does more than what they're supposed to.

The starter collection is housed in a box and it saddens me that I couldn't understand anything it says from the packaging. Because of the Arbutin and the 'Perfect White' as main ingredient and claim, I could only assume that this is for brightening. Other than that, I couldn't make up what's written on it so to be honest, I didn't expect much. I was just looking for something simple that I can use on a daily basis.

Good for you if you read Japanese! :)

HADA LABO PERFECT WHITE ARBUTIN CLEANSER

The product comes in a squeeze tube packaging and contains 25g of the product--a pretty much decent amount for a test run. It lasted me about 2 weeks and the effect is very memorable. The size is perfect for travelling and there were like a couple of times I bring it to work just because it's more handy than the rest of my cleansers.

When dispense, you'll get a creamy white formula with a bouncy texture. The scent's a bit funny too. I am not sure why but the scent reminds me of k-beauty products I've tried before, those which are infused with rice stuff. Nothing off-putting, goodness gracious!

The cleanser builds up to a frothy lather, not as rich as other foam cleansers though which I love for its non-drying properties. In fact, it felt so soothing and gentle and it doesn't strip off the skin's natural moisture. Just what I am looking for for a basic cleanser. It also does not sting or irritate my skin other foam cleansers usually do. After washing, my face felt so soft and bright.

HADA LABO PERFECT WHITE ARBUTIN LOTION

Hada Labo Perfect White Arbutin Lotion comes in a translucent plastic bottle with a twist cap. Just like the counterpart cleanser, it's very travel-friendly too. It's gotten about 40ml of product inside which lasted me more than 2 weeks.

This lotion does multiple jobs for me. It's my go-to cleanser, toner and lightweight moisturizer all in one. No joke. Most of the time, I prefer my skincare game to be just minimal. A cleanser and a good toner is all I need especially on days when I'm too lazy and tired to do 10-steps. This cleanser just possess a really nice hydrating power that makes my skin clearer and moisturized without the greasy feeling. It also preps my skin for the next skincare and my skin just seem to drink up whatever I put on next.

This product reminds me of DEAR KLAIRS SUPPLE PREPARATION TONER performance-wise. They are both multi-taskers though I find Hada Labo's much better. Better in a way that it sorta help with my other skincare in lightening dark spots, prevent breakouts and make them heal faster and it just help with the overall texture of my skin. Using it for more than 2 weeks, I've noticed how my skin's more brighter and softer in texture.

This purplish lotion provides extra cleansing for my skin and gives it sufficient moisture and brings out a glow that sort of lits up from within. There is no significant lightening at all but a clearer, brighter skin is still something I'll pay for.

OVERALL THOUGHTS

Now that I have tried a Japanese brand, I'm getting more excited to explore on what else Japanese skincare offers. I've been a Korean skincare junkie for a long time and trying out a couple of Hada Labo's famous products, I'd say someone's gotta level up because my heart's got a new favorite here. I'm loving both skincare game from respective origins and it just makes me look forward to trying out more.

If you are looking for functional and gentle skincare cleanser and toner/lotion, I'd say you don't want to miss these two from Hada Labo. These are perfect maintenance product as you don't have to go through the purging stage or what (at least in my case). These are suitable for any skin type in my opinion, but better do a patch test first especially if you find yourself sensitive to some ingredients listed above. If you want to get the full-size, they are ranging from P600-P1000+ online. I hope these becomes available in drugstore too!

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The Ordinary AHA + BHA Peeling Solution Review

The Ordinary AHA + BHA Peeling Solution

Bought for: P700+ | SRP: $12.30

Bought from: an online shop

I've been online shopping for skincare and makeup products the past few months and one of my guilty pleasures is this The Ordinary AHA + BHA Peeling Solution. I have been using it for months now and you know with Deciem's The Ordinary skincare line--I can only expect a lot. It took me this long because it's a type of product that I just rarely use (you can't overuse exfoliating products) so I have to make sure I've made the most out of it before posting a review.

CLAIMS

With 30% Alpha Hydroxy Acids (Glycolic/Lactic/Tartaric/Citric), 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid), Hyaluronic Acid Crosspolymer, Vitamin B5, Black Carrot and Tasmanian Pepperberry 

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) exfoliate the skin's topmost surface for a brighter and more even appearance. Beta hydroxy acids (BHA) also exfoliate the skin with an extended function to help clear pore congestion. This combined 32% AHA/BHA solution offers deeper exfoliation to help fight visible blemishes and for improved skin radiance. The formula also improves the appearance of skin texture and reduces the look of fine lines with continued use. 

This formula contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use. This derivative is of plant origin and varies in colour seasonally and this colour variation may be apparent in the formula from time to time. This formula is further supported with a crosspolymer form of hyaluronic acid for comfort, Vitamin B5 to assist healing and black carrot as an antioxidant.

PACKAGING

Product comes in a frosted glass bottle and a dropper for an applicator. Overall design is very minimal and necessary information is compressed and printed in very clear details. I love the overall clinical look of the product but I can't deny the fact that glass bottles are not very travel-friendly. I consider this as a treatment that I don't have to use frequently so I don't think I'll have to bring it to quick getaways anyway. The matte white dropper attracts dirt easily yet is functional as it dispenses a good amount of product and I think it's very hygienic to use too.

INGREDIENTS AND DIRECTIONS

SCENT, TEXTURE AND CONSISTENCY

It comes in a wine-colored solution that has a smooth texture and a runny consistency. It drips once applied on the face and it's a signal that you don't have to soak your skin in thick solution for it to work. You don't want it running down your eyes, lips and body because I can only imagine how bad it would sting. It's gotten a slightly acidic scent, a bit off-putting for those who have sensitive noses.

PERFORMANCE

The reason why I decided to buy this product is because I was looking for a product with 'rich' amount of exfoliants to target darks spots, unevenness and blemishes I have from previous breakouts and chicken pox infection. With research, I found out it would be nice to use products that have AHA and BHA to improve the overall appearance of my skin.

Looking through the claims and ingredients, it seems like this product has been thought through. It helps in exfoliation with the AHA and BHA ingredients, soothes the skin with Tasmanian Pepperberry, Aloe and crosspolymer form of Hyaluronic Acid in case you normally get irritated from acid use, hastens the healing process with Vitamin B5 and evidently so much more. I didn't have any bad experience with any of the ingredients mentioned so I know that me and this product will have this special bond.

I always use about 5-6 drops of this product on my face every use, approximately 1-2 times every week. There's a slight burn as expected and gradually loses strength as minutes pass.  My skin felt sore and dry right after rinsing so I make sure to follow up with AVENE EAU THERMAL SPRING WATER as a first aid to calm and soothe the discomfort. I have low pain tolerance but for the sake of a better skin, I'd say bring it on!

What I like about it is that the effect can be seen right away. Upon rinsing off the formula, I can already feel that my skin's texture has improved. It feels softer, smoother and absolutely looking clearer and brighter. After 4 months of use, I can definitely tell my dark spots on cheeks have lightened significantly, which means less concealer! It doubles its purpose because my chicken pox scars have lightened too.

I am really happy with this product but if you are to use it, I advise not to let it soak on your skin for more than 10 minutes. 5-8 minutes from the moment you squeeze on the first drop is enough. I noticed that prolonged use makes my skin so oily the following day (happens with too much exfoliation) and redness is most likely to occur. Secondly, use deep hydrating products afterwards to get rid of the tight feeling. Deciem also advised not to use acid-infused products 24 hours before and after usage to avoid any adverse reaction and irritation.

For a 50ml product, I think it's priced so justly. It lasts for months, it's been with me for 4 months and I barely made it half the bottle. I totally recommend this product and with further use, I am hoping to finally get rid of old scars and blemishes.

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The Most Natural-Looking Foundation I've Tried: Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free Stick Foundation

Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free Stick Foundation

Bought for: P199 | SRP: P399

Bought from: Maybelline Counter

CLAIMS

Fit Me® Shine-Free Stick Foundation face makeup. Oil-absorbing powder foundation stick delivers a natural matte finish for smooth and even-looking skin. This lightweight gel foundation has an exclusive anti-shine powder core that instantly dissolves excess oil. Pores look minimized and skin stays shine-free for ten hours. This oil-absorbing foundation stick goes on creamy and blends into a natural matte finish.

If I am to choose between skincare and makeup, I'd still find myself being more cautious with skincare because I am prone to skin problems. On days I like to just play around with makeup, I would usually opt for a natural look for my base which is why I am so happy I have tried this foundation from Maybelline, the Fit Me Shine-Free Stick Foundation. This isn't exactly new in the market and I have been using this product for months already but it so happened that I realize it's worth doing a review on.

PACKAGING

I know you'll agree when I say that the packaging is quite very compact. It comes in a retractable-type of tube that's a little stouter than bullet-type lipsticks. It displays information about the product which I fail to take a visual of because the fonts are too tiny for my phone to capture. Sorry I couldn't afford a proper camera lens as of the moment lol. I heard they are even more expensive than the body? Ouch. Anyway, bear with me for the meantime. :D

SHADE RANGE

Shade range is not so impressive. In Maybelline's website, there are 8 saturated shades being sold which, frankly-speaking, I have no idea whether it's updated or not. I am just lucky to find a perfect match for my skin tone. I got the 220 Natural Beige which has a warm undertone and matches my skin tone. It disappears onto my skin as I put it on. Normally, I'm getting 128 Warm Nude in Fit Me Matte which is but fine because the foundation oxides. Now I'm thinking of buying the 220 Natural Beige next time as well.

TEXTURE AND EASE OF APPLICATION

There are stick foundations which I find too hard but Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free Stick Foundation is really creamy and soft. It doesn't accentuate dryness or settles on fine lines too. It has this tendency to melt on the skin upon application and it's very easy to blend with about any applicator you wish to use it with. I find that it works better with a buffing brush though. I like using it with REAL TECHNIQUES EXPERT FACE BRUSH for a better and seamless finish.

The product is designed to have the anti-shine powder core that helps tame oils. And it affects the overall finish of the product. The outer core is purely foundation. It doesn't set or dry quite easy upon application so you'll get extra time to blend it out. It does not completely dry matte or shine-free but it doesn't look overly dewy at all which made me say that it'd prolly fit any skin type. It's also very lightweight and breathable so your skin won't warm up very easily.

COVERAGE AND LONGEVITY

The first time I use this, I had to apply several layers because the shade looks exactly like my skin.and it seems like I haven't applied anything at all. On the other side, I think this may be a good thing because it doesn't build up or look cakey at all. I eventually realized though that it's probably because I am not satisfied with the finish. Coverage is not very impressive so if you have a lot of blemishes like me, you'll need a good concealer to partner it with. This is like a minor complaint because I still prefer my natural skin peeking through despite the makeup.

Longevity-wise, it stays put for a good 6 hours though I have to inject touch-ups every now and then to get rid of shine. My skin is extremely oily and this foundation does not completely soak up oils. I didn't get my hopes up with the 'shine-free' claim because I know my skin pretty well.

OVERALL THOUGHTS

I honestly loved the finish of MAYBELLINE FIT ME MATTE PORELESS FOUNDATION so long as my skin is in its best state (you know, balanced and clear) and this is another Maybelline's product that works in my opinion. This product did clog my pores and it does look and feel natural on the skin so it made me thin...which else is better to use than this foundation in this kind of weather we have here in the Philippines? This product is truly promising and I couldn't wait to repurchase. It's got an awesome price tag of P399 which you can even score for half off during sale season!

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Sigma Beauty Kabuki Brush Set Review

It's been a while since I had these Sigma Beauty Kabuki Brush Set which I bought straight from Sigma website. I couldn't afford it for $90 a set so I'm glad it became discounted for only $63 for all 5 brushes. Price is already reasonable as these retails for $25 each. I am also glad I picked it up then because I don't think this set is still available at Sigma up to date. You may check other registered retailers from US and hope they accept internationally-issued cards.

MATERIALS

The brushes comes in a box with some information about the products. I wasn't able to include a photo here because I think I misplaced the box. There isn't anything special about it though--no free pouch or freebie when you buy the set. I don't mind as Sigma always has free stuff to give away, sometimes with minimum purchase.

The overall design of the brushes looks typical from afar but feels so luxe once you got a hold of every single one of them. There is evidently some weight to each brush. Compared to other makeup brush brands, Sigma brushes are usually longer, thus the extra space. These kabuki ones are smaller so they fit pouches really well. The handles are sleek and shiny and engraved on the bottom part are the names and codes which do not easily rub off. I appreciate this touch because for someone like me who is just starting with makeup, I can definitely get an idea which is which and makes sure a brush serves its purpose.

The bristles felt the same to me--very, very soft. Substandard brushes has a lot of bristles that pokes the skin and tend to open them up but I didn't experience the same thing with my Sigma Brushes, particularly these kabuki ones. It is also nice to know that it's made of synthetic, antimicrobial fibers which is good for cream or liquid makeups for performance and hygienic purposes. In my opinion, each brush has around the same density so they don't absorb too much product.

According to Sigma, the handles has 8 coats of paint and primer for lasting beauty and is also made of durable, corrosion-resistant SigmaAlloy™ ferrules and precious-metal plating for shine and strength. You can only imagine how much Science and effort each brush is made of. You know it's made of strong and durable materials as even after washing, there were no major shedding and the brushes keep its shape even after several washes. The only thing I dislike about it is the fact that the bristles stains very easily no matter how hard I clean or scrub them.

Sigma Beauty Kabuki Brush Set

Bought for: $63 (Around P3,300)

Bought from: Sigma Beauty

WHAT DOES THE SET INCLUDES?

SIGMA FLAT ANGLED KABUKI (F88) - Get an airbrushed foundation finish blending into every crevice with this soft Sigmax® fiber brush. This brush has a flat, angled head which you can use to apply and blend foundation. The surface is smaller than that of F80 so I usually prefer the latter as it gets the job done faster. I like that it's angled though because it is able to get to every nooks and crannies of my face.

SIGMA FLAT KABUKI (F80) - You’ll get high-definition skin with Sigmax® fibers that smooth on any foundation. Blend evenly using this cult-favorite award winner. Now I understand why everyone loves this F80 brush of SB. The bristles are so dense and the flat head is able to buff foundation flawlessly sans the streaks. I just wish the bristles are a teeny bit shorter so it would feel a bit stiffer but this is like a minor complaint. This product does amazingly on its own, still one of the best foundation brush I have tried, so yeah, I don't think I should've bothered saying that.

SIGMA TAPERED KABUKI (F86) - Your secret for looking rested every day; use the tapered Sigmax® fibers with liquid and cream concealers for the perfect under eye cover. The slightly tapered head is dense and soft and is about the perfect size to buff concealer on my under eyes. I sometimes use it to, contour, bake or even apply highlighter just for the purpose of trying it out. I just think I could get on with the rest of my makeup without it.

SIGMA ROUND KABUKI (F82) - Achieve your perfect, natural finish by buffing mineral powder onto your skin using circular motions with the soft, rounded Sigmax® fibers. The short, rounded head is just the perfect shape and size to blend out any forms of foundations, whether mineral or liquid, on the skin. It picks up a great amount of makeup and deposits them to the skin without overdoing it. If I want an extra coverage, this is the brush I'd opt for.

SIGMA ANGLED KABUKI (F84) - You'll create an airbrushed cream blush and bronzer application with this soft, Sigmax® fiber brush using the angle for precise placement. This brush has the largest surface among all 5 Sigma Kabuki brushes I have. It's also one of my favorite. You can make it work either with powder or cream contours and it just swiftly blends them like a dream.

Overall, I love these brushes and I know these can be very expensive but wait 'til they get on sale because it would be a huge markdown! Sometimes, you really have to invest in good quality tools because they truly deliver.

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Huge Birthday Blowout From Althea Korea

As a certified Althea Angel and because it's my birthday, the fairies of Althea Korea gifted me some shopping credits to use in their website. This is, by far, their biggest blowout to me and for that, I'm so grateful. I am not just for their generosity but because they do trust a low-key blogger like me who's very introvert and does nothing other than shopping for makeup and skincare goodies and writes honest-to-goodness reviews and musings, pretty much about everything and anything that interests me.

This is why I love Althea and why I keep coming back to them whether I have free credits to send or none at all. They do care about their people and they see potentials in everyone--a brand I hope every existing corporation could build. Their marketing and communication people are so open, engaging and approachable and they do not discriminate at all.

There's just too much to love about my Althea family. Of course, who wouldn't love to cart or wish list stuff when there's just a lot Althea can offer to K-beauty enthusiasts! You wouldn't believe that I have over 50 items in my wish list now. So here are the items I finally decided to get after days of me thinking things over. It was a hard decision but I have to be practical and only bought stuff I would really be using on a daily basis. I didn't purchase two or more of the same stuff or of the same labels and purpose because I wanted to build a skincare and makeup routine without leaving anything behind in the dark corners of my stash.

INNISFREE JEJU PORE SCRUB FOAM - P450

LANEIGE ESSENTIAL POWER SIN REFINER LIGHT - P1,100

LANEIGE WATER BANK GEL CREAM - P1,460

I have here some basic skincare products like cleanser, toner and moisturizer on days I want to keep my skincare simple and light.

LANEIGE TIME FREEZE FIRMING SLEEPING MASK - P1,330

INNISFREE SUPER VOLCANIC STICK MASK 2X - P620

HONEY AND BERRY LIP SLEEPING MASK- P118

POBLING MINI ION APPLICATOR - 880

I got myself some items that I can also incorporate in my daily routine without having something 'redundant'. I have here a sleeping mask for PM use after moisturizer, a stick mask to be used 2-3 times a week, a lip mask to treat my chapped and dry lips overnight and a tool to make sure my skincare are thoroughly sunken deep down my pores.

NATURE REPUBLIC DAILY UV PROTECTION CREAM NO SEBUM SPF35 - P490

MISSHA POREFECTION BB CREAM - P500

ALTHEA PETAL VELVET POWDER - P210

I have to consider my AM routine too. Here, I bought basic items like sunscreen, a BB cream for lightweight coverage and a powder to help me control oil at bay and top off the BB cream of course.

I couldn't be anything but happy with this haul because I am pretty sure I'll be using them all at the same time. This is me being practical despite having to spend extra money for the additional items. These yielded me a bill of P7,158. Yes, I had to add a little bit of my personal money to also get a free shipping option. Buying the Althea Petal Velvet Powder is worth it because it's almost broken even with the shipping cost. I'd rather pay extra than pay for shipping, tbh.

So...care to share your latest haul from Althea? Would love to get some recommendations on which ones to get next! I'm planning a shopping spree some time in December!

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September-October Product Empties

Here are my product empties for the entire month of September up to the first half of October. I've used up a lot and nothing can compare to the satisfaction I'm feeling right now! I had already posted reviews of some, others remain unspoken yet. One product I really love in this collection is the AQUA DREAM BODY LOTION. As you can tell, it looks so beaten up, you can hardly tell what it says, because I use it wherever and whenever deemed necessary. I bring it with me to work and I love the sweet lingering scent and the moisture it gives--a dry skin savior!

I also emptied another bottle of CLINDAMYCIN SOLUTION which is probably my best prevention solution/antibiotic for acne and pimple breakouts. I also used up my a favorite scented body sanitizer in the form of CARONIA BODY SANITIZER IN GREEN TEA. It reminds me so much of Elizabeth Arden Green Tea perfume!

Here's the NATURACTOR PRESSED POWDER in shade 441 which is a good setting powder. Instantly blurs pores and mattifies the skin and need I say one of the most affordable pressed powders out there! I also finished up my HUMAN NATURE SUNFLOWER BEAUTY OIL which is a great underarm cleanser, brightener and moisturizer! Pump a generous amount into a cotton ball and gentle scrub on your pits and there you'll see all the sweat and dirt accumulated on your skin! More of this in my upcoming review!

I'm also done scraping my HUMAN NATURE PEPPERMINT 100% NATURAL LIP BALM and POND'S FLAWLESS RADIANCE DERMA+ HYDRATING DAY GEL down to the bottom. I love them both for their moisturizing properties! And there you have the CLEAN & CLEAR ESSENTIALS FOAMING FACIAL CLEANSER that detoxifies and cleanses the skin well.

These are the items I finished in sachets. I got here the PUREDERM BOTANICAL CHOICE EXFOLIATION FOOT MASK. This is the second time I use this foot peeling mask and I just love how my smooth and soft my heels become! I also love this MEDIHEAL N.M.F AQUARING AMPOULE MASK EX which is perfect for us with oily skin--never greasy and is non-comedogenic!

I also used these ESFOLIO BANDAGE WHITENING FACIAL MASK, DOVE FRESH BLUE WIPES and MEGAN DETOX AND LIGHTENING PEEL-OFF CLAY MASK which I haven't reviewed here yet. Not very much fond of them though.

So there you have it! There's just something really satisfying with finishing products off. Now, I can't be more excited about adding more stuff to my #productempties box! What are the products you just finished beating up?

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The Newest From Althea Korea: Petal Velvet Sunaway SPF50+ and PA++++

If you are a die-hard fan of Althea Korea's Petal Velvet Powder, here's something you'll love just as much. Althea Korea has been mum about this until just recently when they informed us all that something new from their Petal Velvet line is coming out. I am so lucky to be one of those who got first dibs on and so I would just like to share the good news with you if ever you're missing out.

According to Althea Korea, the new Petal Velvet Sunaway SPF50+ and PA++++ will shield your skin from the sun's rays and give it some petal protection! Ultra lightweight, this invisible sunscreen is formulated with hyaluronic acid and Damask rose extracts, ensuring that your skin stays fresh and hydrated throughout the day without any streakiness or a white cast. It has an SPF of 50+ and PA++++, so your skin'll be kept protected all day. As part of the Petal Velvet line, it also contains micro-powder particles that give you a smooth, petal-like complexion.

There are so many things I love about Althea and one of which is producing beauty products that are cost-efficient with performances that are at par with some high-end cosmetics. With just an initial use, the product ticks off so many things in my what-a-good-sunscreen-is criteria: protection, little to no cast in photography and breathability. I am still putting the product to a test run before I finally give my  thoughts about it so watch out for that.

For the meantime, you may want to visit ALTHEA KOREA to score Petal Velvet Sunaway for 10% off or you may avail the Petal Velvet Set (Petal Velvet Sunaway + a powder of your choice) for 20% off., your choice!

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Another #TSF Highly Recommended: Luxe Organix Bentonite Clay Indian Healing Clay (Review)

Luxe Organix Bentonite Clay Indian Healing Clay

Bought for: Free with points | SRP: P379/450g

Bought from: Sample Room

I have never tried any bentonite masks before though they do not completely sound alien to me. It's merely because of the famous Indian Healing Clay from Aztec Secret that has been going the rounds in the internet months back. And yes, I haven't tried that one out yet either. I have tried other powdered clay masks before which didn't work so I guess I just did not want to shell out money for an over-five-hundred-peso product which I'm not ready to be disappointed to. Thanks to Sample Room, they made Luxe Organix Bentonite Clay Indian Healing Clay  available in their website. Now, I am so ready and excited to try out bentonite clays I would ever laid my eyes on.

CLAIMS

Achieve clearer and smoother skin with the world’s most powerful facial mask! Packed with 100% pure and premium calcium bentonite clay and other useful minerals, Luxe Organix Bentonite Clay helps detoxify and tighten the skin, clear up acne and blackheads, shrink pores, combat wrinkles, and regenerate skin tissue for that fresher, youthful glow. It can also be used for the hair to aid hair growth and can be added to the bath to absorb toxins. Safe and suitable for all skin types such as normal, oily, or acne-prone skin.

OTHER BENEFITS: Helps control the overproduction of sebum, softens the skin, exfoliates the skin, gives a definite glow to the face with continuous use, gives an even skin tone and reduces the appearance of scars.

 

PACKAGING

As you can tell, the jar is kinda bulky that is because of the amount of product inside. One tub has 450g of 100% pure and premium calcium bentonite clay. It's being sold for only P379 which is way cheaper than the Aztec Secret and the content's about the same. It's got an inner seal for protection and once torn open, you'll see that it's actually full to the brim. If you are someone who loves to travel, you might want to decant a few scoops to a clean, empty jar so it would be convenient.

SCENT, TEXTURE AND CONSISTENCY

The product's scent is hardly distinguishable, almost barely there. It has a sort of khaki color and the clay has a soft, smooth and refined texture--none of those rough and pokey substances that doesn't dissolve in liquid.

APPLICATION

Here are the materials you will (possibly) need when using bentonite clay as a facial mask. First rule, no metal spoons or bowls as it may reduce the effectiveness of the clay. I won't lie that I know the Science behind it but let's just follow and don't judge, all right? :P

So I got here purple plastic bowl, a mixing tool, and some measuring spoons. Not that purple is necessary of course (lol). I also forgot to include the facial mask here but that's something you might want to use if ever you have one. I don't encourage you to buy DIY mask materials (but if you are planning to, you may click HERE to know where I got mine). It just happened I bought one so might as well put them to good use, right? I also get myself a glass of water to try it out but to be honest, I like my mask with ACV better.

The process is very easy. Just mix equal parts of clay and liquid onto the plastic bowl and mix them together.  I use two scoops each every time. The water and clay are standalone and you don't have to mix other ingredients to maximize the effect. Doing that might dilute the effectiveness of the mask as well. As directed, there are two ingredients you can mix it with--water and/or Apple Cider Vinegar. In the photo below, I mixed it with water. They do not mix well together. The mixture looks muddy and there were thick globs of clay created. It's not the same when combined with ACV. The mixture is creamier, more uniform and blended (check the next swatch).

 

 

***mixed with ACV

PERFORMANCE

I really love this Luxe Organix Bentonite Clay Indian Healing Clay! The goodness of Bentonite Clay and ACV fused together give skin the softest texture. My skin is more balanced and less oily every time I use this mask and my pores look more refined. It gives skin a healthy, radiant glow despite the slight drying feeling. It's not something a good moisturizer can fix though.

Another thing I noticed is that it hasten the drying of pimples and eliminates bumps for a smoother and softer complexion. Definitely, no breakouts or irritation at all. It made me realize this is suitable for any skin types. The mask dries quickly too so it saves you the hassle of having to maybe fan your skin or sit in front of the air-conditioner. The mask alone is enough to cool the skin for a nice, relaxing pampering session in the comfort of your home.

The only thing that might be bothersome is the scent coming through from the mixture of ACV and Bentonite Clay. That's just so awful! It's something we just have to ignore and get used to if the product's working.

*** Luxe Organix Bentonite Clay Indian Healing Clay in action

This product is multi-tasking too. Now I know why it's been sold in huge tubs-- it can also be used for the hair to aid hair growth and can be added to the bath to absorb toxins. Now, I haven't tried either one yet but I'll make sure to update once I did! If you are looking for the best clay mask to detoxify, this is the perfect product to use! Definitely, a #TSF recommended!

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