Natural Pacific Fresh Herb Origin Serum Review (In Old Packaging)

Natural Pacific Fresh Herb Serum

Bought for: P550/50 ml

Bought from: an online shop

***Okay, I did not know this has been drafted last year (can you tell with the old packaging?) but never had the chance to publish it until today because I have like almost a hundred unpublished and disregarded posts. Almost 10% are done already, and about 30% are still ongoing. If only I'm more inspired to write, I could've posted an additional 20 entries to date. Still, life is life. I'd been facing constant challenges the last few months and I'm pretty sure I shared bits of them in some of my previous post. Anyhow, I know this is a product that has been making rounds long before I know of it but I still would want to give my honest thoughts and share the experience I had with this product.

CLAIMS

Make vitamin C your skin's new best friend with the Fresh Herb Origin Serum! This best selling concentrate is packed with vitamins and antioxidants that work to diminish wrinkles, minimize pores, brighten dullness and treat troubles. Made with a bi-phase oil-essence formula, this product tingles ever-so-slightly on the skin, but this lessens as your skin's condition improves. Best of all, it's made without synthetic preservatives so it won't irritate the skin.

HOW TO USE

After cleansing and toning the skin, shake to mix before dispensing a couple of drops onto your hand. Apply evenly onto the skin and gently pat in for better absorption.

INGREDIENTS

PACKAGING

I would just like to give you a heads-up that there was a major change with both the packaging and the name of the brand. Natural Pacific is now known as Nacific and we all probably had the same assumption as to how they came up with the name. I appreciate them re-branding because well, obviously the latter is easier to pronounce and is simpler. Also, the overall packaging has changed to a transparent cylinder bottle but still with a hygienic dropper. Despite the major revamp on the packaging, I still think that the older bottle looks much more appealing. Nevertheless, the ingredients used are still almost the same.

Almost because they added a few more ingredients like added Aloe Vera leaves (1.5 times more), Pore Complex 3 to help soothe skin and tighten pores and Sepicalmtm which is an anti-oxidation patented ingredient that helps fight aging.

I have nothing against the packaging except for the rubber part that attracts dirt and dust very easily. This is like a very minor issue though. It's made of thick frosted glass but still not very suitable for travelling. The dropper makes application very sanitized as well.

SCENT, TEXTURE AND EASE OF APPLICATION

It has something like an acidic, nutty herbal scent which is okay for me, nothing pleasant but not intolerably awful either. I think others may find this off-putting especially those who have very sensitive noses. Texture-wise, it's very unique as it's a bi-phase serum that has both moisture and vegetable oil layer. Please be advised that you should shake the bottle well prior to use to combine the layers together.

The product feels very light and it doesn't warm up the skin but I'm kind of annoyed with the oily-greasy texture it gives. I don't mind having oily-looking skin during night time but definitely unforgivable during the morning. It's especially not suitable for the weather we have in the Philippines unless you have the drier skin type. Please know that not everyone is particular with this and additionally, not all oily products meant harm. Blame it on my personal preference--I just don't like oily skincare for not much reason. Well, I think there's a reason and that's because I have super oily skin that's becoming even more severe when I put on oil-based products. I also think this product is not very ideal to be applied under makeup as it makes them cake and move around.

OVERALL PERFORMANCE

This product boasts of Vitamin C and A LOT of extracts and oils which is kind of overwhelming. Some of the key ingredients present are Pasqueflower Extract (helps soothe irritations and purify the skin), Fruit-based Acid (made with a combination of grape, orange, lemon, apple and lime extracts to gently but effectively rid the skin of dead skin cells) and Korean Pepper Extract (rich in  Vitamin C and Tocopherol for protection and antioxidant properties). It's also loaded with Aloe Vera that helps soothe the skin. This is probably why it feels soothing despite the slight stingy effect as it heals the damages on the skin. It's true that this product stings but it goes away after few more uses.

Using it overtime, I did not see much difference at all. I notice that my skin is having clogged pores and this usually happen when I use oil-based products. Also, my skin did not stop breaking out during the entire trial period despite the minimal usage (1-2 drops every night). I guess my skin did not like the oil and extract mixture and it's too much for me to take in.

With that saying, I don't think I'll ever repurchase this product. If you have a more normal skin type, you can probably give this a try especially our skin reacts differently on a certain product. I have problematic skin so I need to be extra careful with what products I choose to incorporate in my skincare. I'm just sad that it did not meet my expectations. Others are raving about this product and I'm happy that it works for them. I'm still looking for my own and new holy grail and I will share what's it going to be soon!

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Ongoing April-May Sale

It's been a while since I last wrote about sale events that I'm planning to participate into but here I am contemplating whether or not I should cave in with these deals that are so hard to miss. Will you help me make up my mind, please?

SHOPEE 5.5 SALE

Catch your favorite items for up to 95% off! 100% coins cashback vouchers will be given and an extra discount code with minimum spend. Plus, you can enjoy free shipping on qualified purchases. For extra discounts, don't forget to join their scheduled games, shopee shakes and flash deals!

FOREVER 21: BRAND OF THE WEEK

Yes, forever 21 will be available in Lazada starting today. You can score a full outfit for 50% off and this offer is only limited and is exclusive only on Lazada. Clock's ticking!

H&M 50% OFF SALE

H&M is one of my favorite go-to brand when it comes to casual outfits. I like the quality of their clothes and the comfort they provide plus they fit everyone else's lifestyle and budget! What are you waiting for? Run into the nearest H&M store now!

SPECTRUM BIRTHDAY SALE

My indecisiveness is kicking in with this deal. Spectrum rarely hosts offers like this but their brushes aren't so cheap that it would fit my budget. Still, I wanted their marbleous brush set so bad! I've been waiting for it to be on sale for so long. So what do you think? Save or splurge?

Sorry to be bias but these are the only sale events that catches my attention. I'm not aware of everything so please hit me up if you'd like to recommend anything. Thank you!

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Cathy Doll White Milk Shine Peeling Body Scrub Review

Cathy Doll White Milk Shine Peeling Body Scrub

Bought for: P249/320ml

Bought from: SM Store

I've only tried a few products from Cathy Doll and there face powders are something that I liked. Just after that, I found out that they also have skincare line which I decided to explore so I got myself this particular scrub to begin with. I'm familiar with peeling gels for the face but I guess it would be the first time I ever heard a peeling gel for the body. Sounds interesting right?  I love effective body scrubs because they really smoothen and deep cleanse the skin and body scrubs in any form will always be something I'm excited to try. So, I guess the question is, did Cathy Doll White Milk Shine Peeling Body Scrub work?

CLAIMS

The milky body scrub gel is rich in Milk Protein and contains White Strawberry. The gel texture is full with moisture that helps to remove inactive skin cells and stimulate the skin cell renewal at the same time while reducing wrinkles and dullness after application. It is rich in milk protein that smoothens the skin. It also helps remove inactive skin cells and stimulates the skin renewal at the same time while reducing dullness.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Gently massage on dry skin until dead skin cells are peeled off. Then rinse off with clean water. Use this twice a week.

INGREDIENTS

Aqua; Glycerin; Silica; Carbomer; Milk Protein; PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil; Diazolidinyl; Urea; fragrance; Cetrimonium; Chloride; Glutathione; Arbutin; Hyaluronic Acid; Ubiquinone; Niacin; Fragaria Chiloensis Fruit Juice

PACKAGING

I think that the overall packaging is very hygienic. When I bought it, it's still wrapped in an outer plastic. It also has an inner protection seal so the product won't just leak or drip. The container is huge enough to carry 320ml of product so I think decanting to small containers will be very useful when you are someone who travels a lot. The overall packaging is very cute and appealing and that's something you can always expect with Cathy Doll. It has all necessary information like claims, directions, ingredient lists, as well as manufacturing and expiry dates.

SCENT, TEXTURE AND CONSISTENCY

The peeling body scrub smells chemicals which is fine as I'm not really picky with scents. It has a gel texture that kind of turns liquidy when gets in touched with the skin. It does not sting the skin so  I believe even those who have sensitive skin may still opt to using this. It also rinses well without leaving any sticky, slimy residue.

OVERALL PERFORMANCE

This product is packed with Milk Proteins and White Strawberry that is supposed to renew and moisturize the skin. I did not see such significant effect though because I stopped using after the second applicator. Why? I think it's just a waste of time if your main concern is to scrub away dead skin cells. This product just turns liquid when applied and you have to massage your skin hard and several times to create just few and tiny 'scrubs'. It's tiring and at the same time, doesn't feel like it's thoroughly cleaning/exfoliating the skin. I know other peeling gels that peels away dead skin cells in just seconds.

So no, I'm not gonna settle on this one. My skin felt sore from all the rubbing. I regret spending P249 for this and would not really recommend for people who are looking for effective peeling gels. For me, it does not do its job properly and you better save your P249 for something like what, St. Ives, I guess?

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Althea Korea Flawless Creamy Concealers Swatches and Review

Althea Korea Flawless Creamy Concealers

Bought for: Free | SRP: P200/6g

From: Althea Korea

If you're able to read the makeup tutorial I did with all of Althea Korea's Color Makeups, you'll notice that I included this creamy concealer as part of my base makeup. I am not someone who religiously incorporate concealers in my makeup routine for some reason but I was tasked to do a one-brand tutorial so I had to. I'm so happy I did because I think I finally found an affordable holy grail concealer that I'd reach out for ever time I needed some concealing and highlighting. Hands down to these babies for their quality and price!

CLAIMS

Spots, panda eyes and other blemishes raining on your parade? Smooth over and cover them up with Althea's Flawless Creamy Concealer, a pigmented, blendable concealer that'll whisk them all away! This buildable formula is made with Aquaxyl to moisturize and improve the overall health of the skin, while its long-wearing properties ensure it stays on your face all day. You'll be looking and feeling great in no time!

PACKAGING

Product comes in a slim, transparent plastic container with a matte black handle and a doe foot applicator. I like that it's transparent so you get to see how the product and shade look from the outside. This minimize mistakes in choosing the right concealer shade. The product is also sealed with a sticker which is a pain to remove as it leaves sticky papers which attracts dust and dirt very easily. That's pretty much a minor issue but I can't help being concerned.

SHADE SELECTION

Vanilla - pink beige #21

Ginger -  warm ivory #21

Honey - warm peach #23-#25

Mocha - deeper yellow #30

As of the moment, Althea Korea Flawless Creamy Concealers comes in four (4) shades namely Vanilla, Ginger, Honey and Mocha--arranged from the lightest to the darkest shade. You can tell that the shade selection is pretty limited and I'm hoping they could add more so as to cater those that does not have their exact match. On the other hand, this is already quite a feat considering most Korean base makeups only comes in two shades. If your skin is lighter than most, you can even use the lightest shade as a highlighter and the darkest one as a contour.

SCENT, TEXTURE AND EASE OF APPLICATION

These concealers have very pleasing scent though if you don't prefer scented makeups, you might find it off-putting. All shades have same consistency--creamy and soft. It definitely lives up to its name. I like how blending is such an ease whether using a finger, brush or sponge. It dries semi-matte so you will have enough time to blend it to areas you're putting it on with absolute zero hassle.

COVERAGE

I would say these concealers give light to medium coverage. Full coverage is very hard to achieve unless you pack several layers on which no beauty blogger would ever recommend. Doing so will lead to patchy, cakey makeup. I'd say 2-3 layers would be fine if you really have dark under eyes or scars to cover. Swatch provided down below is just one layer as I prefer spots and blemishes still peeking through rather than sporting a completely flawless skin. If you are after the latter, go for an extra layer.

LONGEVITY

Althea Korea Flawless Creamy Concealers blend seamlessly on the skin without too much of moving around. Take it from someone who's got large pores and oily skin problems! It definitely sets naturally as if you have nothing on and they will last a good 6-8 hours with minimal oxidation. Again, my skin is acidic and oily at the same time so if you're skin's more normal, it might even last longer.

OVERALL PERFORMANCE

I'm really happy to know that these concealers are makeup and skincare in one. It's packed with Aquaxyl to keep the skin smooth and moisturized, perfect for the under eyes as a first step to avoid wrinkles and fine lines! I cannot believe that a piece is only P200 (less than $4) and despite lacking a bit in coverage, I'd still go for it because it's oily skin-friendly and I can do multiple things with it. I'm lucky I have my shade (Ginger) and that's what I use to highlight my skin. See photo below. I could still use Vanilla but since my skin is warmer, I think Ginger will be the better option. Mocha isn't just too dark to contour my chubby cheeks which is why I'm begging for more shade options.

Overall, these concealers are great value for money. If Althea will come up with more shades, I'm sure to repurchase. I also highly recommend this product to beginners because...well, it's just so affordable and easy to use!

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Althea Korea Spotlight Eye Glitter Review

Althea Korea Spotlight Eye Glitter

Bought for: Free | SRP: P300/4.5ml

From: Althea Korea

Last February, I did a makeup tutorial with Althea Korea's Color Makeups and these spotlight eye glitter were included on the products that I used. It's also one of my favorites from the collection. It's an eye makeup that transforms a simple eye shadow to an outstanding one quickly. As of the moment, it comes only in two (2) shades which is gold and pink light but I hope they'll expand with more sparkly colors.

CLAIMS

A sparkling eye glitter product that's easily blendable to use as eyeshadow, comes with a precise brush for eyeliner . It dries down to a long wearing finish. It's also suitable for all skin types.

PACKAGING

Product comes in a slim cardboard box that has limited information about the product or what I think so because I don't really read and understand Korean language. I'm still thankful that shades and expiry dates are printed in clear and crisp fonts.

The eye glitters comes in a transparent plastic packaging with a slim applicator that makes application so convenient. I like that it's transparent so I get to see how the product looks from the outside. Overall packaging is effective because not only it's lightweight and travel-friendly, it's also easy to store.

TEXTURE AND EASE OF APPLICATION

This is a liquid gel eye shadow that has Squalene (that conditions and improves suppleness of the skin) and finely milled shimmer pigments (for a reflective glow). The product feels a little tacky at first but sets to a dry texture after a few seconds. It's okay for me because it feels like the liquid formula glues the shimmer to the skin so it would wear long even on oily lids. Despite the long-wearing property, it's very easy to remove with almost any type of makeup remover so tugging will be minimized.

PERFORMANCE

I like that the shimmer is very gentle on the skin and does not irritate the eyes. It's very safe and easy to use and even for a beginner like me, I find it one of the makeup products to use wherein you won't go wrong whether you put a little or too much. You can also use it on its own or as a last touch to enhance your eye makeup and make it more inviting. Check out the look that I created with this down below! See how vivid the sparkles are with only a dab of the product! It last me the whole day with minimal fading.

These eye glitters aren't basic makeups that you have to own especially if you are just beginning to learn with makeup. However, having even just a tube will be very useful especially when you are transforming from a day to night makeup. It will also save your eye look especially if you are still struggling with your blending skills (like me!). See  how I managed to make my eye makeup look more presentable. :D

Given the fact that a little goes a long way, P300 per eye glitter is not bad at all. But if you prefer mixing and matching shades, I'd suggest you go for pans and sets because they are more economical to use.

Do let me know what you think of the eye makeup I created! Let's start a convo! :)

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Grand Launch: Althea Korea's Fresh New A-Bloom Collection

Did you hear about the newest product range that's launching in Althea Korea? Well, here's a great news--they're now out! You can finally start shopping for deals and freebies when you visit ALL Althea Korea's websites from where you are! I know they make it big because it's the brand's newest range that, by far, includes four (4) mask sheets variants (Nourishing Avocado, Brightening Lemon Lime, Anti-Blemish Peach Mask, and Moisturizing Watermelon), a Giant and Baby Meringue Puffs and a BHA Blackhead Blaster. I'm hoping they'll add more in this collection though.

What's even better is that they're not just funky and adorable, they are very budget-friendly too! Can you believe that a piece of the mask sheet only retails for P20 ($0.20) and a set of 10 masks for only P180 ($3.50)? The giant and the baby meringue puffs, which are both latex-free, are being sold for only P100 ($2) and P140 ($3) consecutively. The one I'm most excited about is the blackhead buster which is only P200 ($4)! Can't wait to clear all these pesky black spots in my nose!

Because it's their launch, Althea Korea has offered sweet deals for everyone. How about 10+10 mask sheets for only P180? That's 20 pieces for only P180! Just don't forget to apply the code ABMASKS upon checkout. Also, buy the puffs or blackhead buster and get a free limited edition mobile phone grip! You can also try one mask sheet variant for free just by adding it to your cart. Discount will apply automatically. You can also get a chance to get a limited A-Bloom box!

So what are you waiting for? Go visit ph.althea.kr to get an A-Bloom product of your choice!

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Honest To Goodness Review: Dove Ultimate Repair Dark Marks Corrector Deodorant

Dove Ultimate Repair Dark Marks Corrector Deodorant

Bought for: Sale at P199 (BOGO)

Bought from: Dove Official Store

A lot of beauty bloggers/vloggers are talking about this newest variant of Dove deodorant so who am I to turn a blind eye? I remember one of the vloggers I follow claimed that this product did lighten her underarms in just a week! A WEEK! That does sounds too good to be true but since I am me–who'd rather believe than doubt, I eventually bought myself a couple when it was on a BOGO deal last February. I already consumed both containers and so here's my thoughts whether or not it's worth purchasing.

CLAIMS

Get more out of your whitening deo with Dove Ultimate Repair. With 1/4 moisurizing cream and Vitamin B3, it not only corrects dark marks, but also repairs underarm skin damage to visibly restore smooth, even-toned underarms.

PACKAGING

Dove Ultimate Repair Dark Marks Corrector Deodorant comes in three types of containers: roll-on, antiperspirant stick and aerosol spray. I prefer the aerosol type because it's more convenient to use as you just have to spray and the product will dry within seconds. No stickiness, no uncomfortable feeling. I appreciate that it has all necessary information including claims, directions, caution, ingredients and expiry date. The combination of pink and white shades looks great too.

What I like about it is that the product itself smells so nice. It has floral notes and it makes me stay fresh all day. It's not one of those commercial deodorants that turns foul at the end of the day or right after you sweat. Perspiration is something that's hard to combat when you are living in a country with extreme heat and humidity so I don't really expect it would keep my pits wetness-free all day. At least, it's able to keep perspiration at bay.

I also like that it feels moisturizing, thanks to the notable 1/4 moisturizing cream so your skin won't flake. I would suggest you be careful with how much you spray on because it has the tendency to stain shirts.

My skin feels softer and smoother after using Dove Ultimate Repair Dark Marks Corrector Deodorant for more than two months. My skin reacts well with Vitamin B3 or Niacinamide so I think that's why. Chicken skins are still significant but thanks to this, they seemed blurred out a bit. Skin's texture has improved but I don't think this product is able make it lighter than usual. I may have to use it for a longer period to see much difference and I think I will. Yes, I'm planning to repurchase.

Our skin reacts differently to products so I don't think vloggers who swear by this are fraud. I'm happy it works faster to them than it did to mine but given the fact that it's able to improve the skin's overall texture, that's enough reason for me to repurchase. I've never trusted any other commercial deodorants anyway other than Dove.

Let me know what your thoughts are and if you have anything to say or recommend! I'd love to hear something from you! Enjoy the holidays!

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