Maxi-Peel Facial Wash Review

Time flies so swiftly. Checking my previous posts, I found out that the last time I posted a blog was about a week ago. Hmf. April's almost over and it seems like I'm still into procrastinating. Staying at home is becoming unbearably boring and the only thing that's keeping me sane right now are K-dramas. I even signed up for my own account in Netflix hoho. I was only sponging off on my friend's account previously LOL. Going back, today's blog will be a continuation of our Maxi-Peel review series.

CLAIMS

Maxi-Peel Facial Wash is an anti-bacterial and deep cleansing wash which contains micro beads that lifts away deep-seated dirt and excess oil. It also helps dry up and remove pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Maxi-Peel Facial Wash is vitamin enriched with Vitamins B3, B5, and E.

INGREDIENTS

Maxi-Peel Facial Wash have acids and chemicals that are quite alarming especially for sensitive skin. However, there are also notable ones that are beneficial to problematic skin types. There are potent ingredients for anti-aging and brightening (Niacinamide, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopheryl Acetate or Vitamin E), and also for fighting acne (Salicylic Acid). Oh, at the moment, my skin is loving Niacinamide!

Apart from these, Maxi-Peel Facial Wash is paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free and EU allergen-free.

PACKAGING

Like I've mentioned on my previous Maxi-Peel blogs, I used to love the scrub variant. I couldn't find any when I went to the drugstore so I have to settle to the original one. I've been using both simultaneously before anyway. I think the only difference between the two are the presence of fine, gentle scrubs.

Maxi-Peel Facial Wash comes in sachet packs and tiny tubes which is way more travel-friendly since those are leak-proof. I couldn't travel this quarantine season anyway so what's the use. I appreciate that all the necessary information are printed at the back of the sachets so no need for me to google or something.

SCENT, CONSISTENCY AND EASE OF APPLICATION

This product has a subtle cooling fresh scent which is not offensive to sensitive noses. Turns out I like it.

The consistency and the look of the product is very typical to foam cleansers. It’s kind of thick and lathers richly when applied on wet skin but rinses well without any residue. Honestly, you don’t need a lot for the whole face. A sachet could last more or less two weeks (twice application per day).

This is a facial wash that has the tendency to dry out your skin so you may not want to soak your skin for too long. It leaves your skin feeling squeaky clean and a bit tight afterward that it may crave for some moisture. I would say that those with dry/sensitive skin should use it sparingly.

PERFORMANCE

This product is very cooling to the skin. As I have mentioned, it’s a bit drying so using it on peeling skin is a no-no for me. My skin was sore and itchy when I tried to use it together with the Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution. It became red and blotchy all over. It would be best to use this product on normal days for maintenance.

So far, I would say that it really does well in brightening the skin and make it appear clearer. This is with regular use of course. It took me about 4 sachets or so to notice an effect - my skin is more glowing and blemishes are less noticeable. The time I spent with it was not so bad at all considering the price I paid for.

So if you are looking for beauty products that are budget-friendly, this should be one of your options. I would consider using it again someday as this didn’t block my pores or break me out. It would be best to use it together with other Maxi-Peel products for maximum effect.

Maxi-Peel Facial Wash

Price: P5 (7g)/ P65 (25g)

Bought from: Mercury Drugstore

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Maxi-Peel Moisturizing Cream Review

The past few days were all about movies and series and today, I just finished watching How To Train Your Dragon 1-3. I'm not really into animation but I kind of enjoy watching them LOL. I think the dragons are rather cute than scary, most especially Toothless! Anyway, here's the continuation of Maxi-Peel review series I have thought of doing this quarantine season. Today, I'm going to share a quick review of Maxi-Peel Moisturizing Cream.

Again, this isn't the first time I tried this product. Maxi-Peel has been around for years and I don't think anyone who's beauty-obsessed will find Maxi-Peel an alien brand. I was in college the first time I've tried this and though that was years ago, I don't think they reformulated this cream. One thing for sure is, it has became much more cost-efficient since they made the product bigger with just the same price tag. With only P14, you get to last it for about a week or so.

CLAIMS

Maxi-Peel Moisturizing Cream is a non-greasy, quick absorbing cream that provides maximum moisture to keep skin soft, smooth and supple. It helps hide visible effects of exfoliation such as flakiness and dryness. Use nightly to provide skin hydration and moisture.

SCENT, CONSISTENCY AND EASE OF APPLICATION

This product has a subtle floral-like scent which I like. It's not offensive at all even for sensitive noses. The cream is white in color and despite the slightly thick formulation, it absorbs easily without any stickiness. It's soft and silky, almost silicon-y when applied. This is probably because of the presence of Dimethicone. It looks matte as well but skin feels highly moisturized underneath. I tried it with a foundation and so far, it did not roll and pill. My foundation looks okay too.

My only concern is that it makes my skin warm up faster and gets super oily after a few hours. Because of too much oil, my base makeup cakes and moves around. This is why I wouldn't want to use it as a moisturizer if I will be using makeup. On its own, it's a good product to use n a daily basis to moisturize the non-problematic skin.

PERFORMANCE

I have tried this product when my skin is peeling in the hope of hiding the dry patches and dead skins. However, not only this product stings so much, it also heightened the look of the peeling skin and I don't get it. I mean it was advised to use with the exfoliant solution but I don't find them to be a great duo. Again, I would think that you have to use it on its own when you're skin is done peeling and is already on the healing stage.

Despite all that, I appreciate Maxi-Peel Moisturizing Cream and I really like the texture of the cream and how it was formulated. I like how it glides well on the skin. Though it makes me oil up more, I could easily fix that with a mattifying powder. It's really hot and humid anyway. I might use this again on colder days.

I like how it get rids of dry and taut feeling so it's probably best for those with dry skin. The best thing is that it doesn't clog my pores or cause breakouts when I use it years back and even just recently. I just hope that it comes with a high-strength sun protection so it would be a nice alternative cheap moisturizer.

If you have sensitive skin, better do a patch test first. Please know that it has ingredients that may clog the pores or may cause adverse reactions. Watch out for the Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Citric Acid, Dimethicone, Triethanolamine, Mineral Oil and Fragrance. If you had any bad experience with the aforementioned ingredients, be more cautious and consult your dermatologist.

Maxi-Peel Moisturizing Cream

Price: P14 (15g), P41 (25g)

Bought from: Mercury Drugstore

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My Experience With Erythromycin 2% Solution

So I still tear up whenever I remember last night's episode (also the finale) of Hi, Bye Mama. It's so heartbreaking because I felt like there was no justice at all in the life of the main character who is both a mother and a daughter. Although I kind of predicted what's going to happen, I still hoped that things will turn out differently in the end. :( This is as far as I can tell you but it feels good ranting on my own page LOL.

Hanna, focus. The main purpose of this blog is to share with you my experience with an Erythromycin solution for my breakouts. Before we go any further, let me tell you that I'm no expert in this field and that whatever I'm going to tell you is solely what I experienced for myself alone. I also believed that consumption of Erythromycin in any types of skincare - whether oral or topical - needs prescription (so you may want to correct me all you want).

Furthermore, I would like to warn you that I bought this solution online and they are claiming that this product is locally manufactured. It clearly doesn't have a brand name at all and I cannot guarantee that it is FDA-approved. This may sound harsh but use it at your own risk. Now I'm not sure if writing this blog or using the product without prescription is considered legal (LOL, what the hell).

Just so you're familiar with my skin type, I have super oily skin characterized with large pores. I get mild to moderate pimple breakouts. I suspect the genes plus poor eating and sleeping habits. If you have sensitive skin, pregnant or lactating or has underlying health conditions, please consult with your doctor first.

So whoops, that was quite an introduction more like a warning, don't you think? Anyway, you get this product as it is - very basic, non-fancy white plastic bottle. I got 50ml worth of solution for a little over P100 with a free shipping voucher. Good thing, the product is light and doesn't leak at all so I can bring it conveniently to travel.

So I did a quick research about the uses and how Erythromycin topical works and this website clearly explains it all. In layman's term, Erythromycin is an antibiotic used to kill bacteria/germs that cause acne. Since I do get them from time to time, I was looking for something to prevent breakouts which prompted me to try just whatever the market has to offer. Of course, it pays more to be meticulous but sometimes, I can't help but take risk and be careless.

So here, we'll break down the list of ingredients since there's clearly only a few. We have:

Ethyl Alcohol - a pretty much well-known ingredient known to enhance the penetration of beneficial ingredients onto the skin. However, people with sensitive, dry skin should be more cautious because alcohol can strip off the skin's moisture.

Aqua/Water - used as a cosmetic solvent that dissolves ingredients in preparation.

Aloe Vera Extract - it relieves skin irritation, add moisture, fight acne, and fades spot making the ingredient list balance

Erythromycin USP 2% - kills germs on the surface of the skin and also helps to clean acne spots and helps skin heal from damages

Tretinoin - it's a synthetic Vitamin A that is used to treat acne, sun-damage skin and fine wrinkles; however, you have to be cautious with this ingredient too because it's not recommended to those with sensitive skin since it is a strong type of chemical.

PERFORMANCE

I have tried this product way back January 2020 and used it for the whole month as a toner to apply with a cotton pad. The only reason I stopped is because I have decided to use Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution from February 11 to April 11. Erythromycin is not recommended to be used with astringents or any products with strong acids/chemicals since the ingredient list is already strong to begin with. Using it with other chemicals can cause adverse reaction to the skin.

Product is water-like and reeks of alcohol but since I don't have a sensitive nose, I find it tolerable. This products sinks right through the skin with ease and makes the rest of my skincare penetrate faster and better. It can be a bit drying so moisturizer is a must.

On the first week of usage, I already feel something different. The existing pimples seem to dry up faster than the usual even without my current go-to spot treatment (Althea Korea Spot Film Gel). I've read that it may take about 8-12 weeks before we notice some changes on the skin so I was happy that this product is working faster on me. On the next couple of weeks, I still experience mild pimples but they dry up faster than usual. Also, the spots created becomes lighter, even the blemishes and dark spots I previously had seemed to lighten a bit in a month's use. My skin became clearer overall with lesser blemishes to worry about.

After my skin is completely healed from my previous acne treatment, I'll make sure to use Erythromycin 2% Solution again and I hope my skin won't reject it. I plan to use it together with my Niacinamide and will update you on that.

So there, overall I am willing to repurchase Erythromycin 2% Solution. It's inexpensive and lasts for quite a while. Maybe what it did to my skin is just pure luck or maybe it really works for skin types like mine but either way, it works and for that, I'm glad.

So have you tried incorporating Erythromycin in your skincare routine? How was it?

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Maxi-Peel Facial Cleanser Classic Review

On one of my most recent blogs, I've mentioned that I've tried a lot of Maxi-Peel products in the past but never got the chance to write about them. I'm not really sure why, I even checked my previous blogs but I couldn't find that many reviews featuring products from this particular brand. My bad! Let me make it up to you. I even bought some sample sachets and a bottle of the Maxi-Peel Facial Cleanser Classic. I've been using it for the last two weeks since I just finished exfoliating with their exfoliant solution. I thought that it might be best to use maintenance products from the same brand to enhance the results.

CLAIMS

Maxi-peel Facial Cleanser Classic has deep cleansing and lightening properties that lifts away deep-seated dirt and anti-acne and smoothening properties that remove blackheads and whiteheads. It is also vitamin-enriched with Vitamins B3, B5, B6, C and E.

PACKAGING

The product comes in a typical plastic bottle and what I really appreciate is the transparency of the brand. On the back part of the bottle, you'll see the claims, usage, ingredients, and manufacturer information. On the rear part are the manufacturing and expiry dates.

SCENT, CONSISTENCY AND EASE OF APPLICATION

The product has a refreshing scent though the smell of alcohol is quite there too. It's on the upper part of the ingredient list so that means there's a significant amount of it. I know some would find it alarming because alcohol is drying and some would even experience adverse reaction (like worse acne breakouts) from products infused with alcohol. In my case, my skin isn't that sensitive to alcohol-based products and I can easily combat the dryness by using hydrating products that works well for me. I'm saying this as early as now so you can skip reading if ýou're allergic to skincare with alcohol.

This cleanser is water-like and because of the presence of alcohol, this dry very fast and is easily absorbed by the skin without any oily or sticky residue. I don't have problem with cleansers like this, in fact, it's quite helpful for me with oily skin because it makes the product weightless and it also seems like my skin absorbs easily whatever I put on next. But then again, alcohol are scientifically-proven to be more damaging than helpful to the skin. I'm just blessed I guess because this cleanser didn't cause my skin to flare up and it also didn't make my skin reject other skincare  products that I'm using.

PERFORMANCE

It is advisable to use this cleanser twice a day meaning in the morning and at night ideally after first-step cleansing with a mild facial wash. I like the fact that it is able to clean up and remove excess oil and dirt from the pores as you can tell on the cotton pad. It leaves skin squeaky clean and more refreshed due to its cooling formula. Again, this cleanser didn't burn up my skin and I also didn't experience acne breakouts during the time that I was using it from years ago and even for the past two weeks.

This product also claims to lighten the skin but I have to say that it didn't significantly contribute to the improvement of my skin tone but I'm happy to say that it helped make my skin looks clearer. The only thing I really didn't like is that how my skin feels a little tight and dry so I have to really use hydrating products afterwards.

If you are looking for budget-friendly cleansers, this is something you can buy very conveniently. I just wouldn't recommend it to those with sensitive and dry skin types because of the ingredient list/formulation. And because I'm always on the chase for new products, I don't think I'd repurchase this cleanser anytime sooner.

Does Maxi-Peel Facial Cleanser Classic works for you? Let me know in the comment section box down below!

Maxi-Peel Facial Cleanser Classic

Bought for: P55 (135ml)

Bought from: Mercury Drugstore

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Scent Swatch Fragrances: Best Dupes for Designer Perfumes

Hey! How's quarantined life going? I've just finished watching Mr. Sunshine last night so I started this new K-drama, Suits, which is about legal stuff. I've heard that this is the Korean version of Suits US but since the original version has more seasons, I settled for the Korean version that's shorter. After all, Park Hyung-Sik is one of my oppa crushes haha!

Anyway, since I'm feeling myself again today, I decided to write about something you might find both helpful and interesting. I discovered a shop before that sells dupes of high-end perfumes and this shop was actually recommended by some friends at work. Scent Swatch is a locally-manufactured perfume brand that has been on business since 2012. I've heard about them years back, but what I actually didn't know was that their products are inspired by famous designer scents.

They sell fragrances both for women, men and they also have unisex scents, how cool is that? For the list of all scents offered by the brand, please click here. The best thing is the price! You can get a super cute 20 ml bottle for only P220 and the bigger one which retails for only P390 and has 60ml of product inside. This is indeed perfect for those who are budget-conscious but still would like to smell like their favorite celebrities.

I bought my bottles from Scent Swatch Shopee account but they also have kiosks in malls so you may wanna check on that especially if you would like to know how each scent differs. Going to their mall branches is also the wisest way to choose your favorite scent from classic woody-aromatics to contemporary fruity-florals. Here, I have been repurchasing their Pink Sherbet over and over which is inspired by the perfume Incanto Shine of Salvatore Ferragamo. I have a classic handbag from this brand so this perfume is the closest to my heart.

Just so you know, their products are Eau de Parfum grade so they are longer lasting than those of body mists or Eau de Toilette ones. They come in glass bottles too which gives their products a luxurious touch. For the price, I'm really impressed with the quality of Scent Swatch perfumes. Mine lasts for over 4-6 hours without reapplication plus I have been getting positive feedback from people who catch whiff of it. I also love the scents chosen by my friends at work if you ask me!

So what do you think of this Scent Swatch Fragrances? Hot or not?

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Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Apricot Scrub Review

I don't know what's gotten into me, but I felt like typing all day. There's just too many in my draft folder that I felt the urge to write and publish nonstop. I know it's not very me but instead of slacking around and doing nothing, let me share just one more review before my spirit leaves me alone. It's another one of my long overdue blogs and it's about Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Apricot Scrub. I got my bottle from Sample Room way back - don't take your chance, it's already sold out LOL. You can get fresh stocks from Watsons or other leading supermarkets and drugstores instead.

CLAIMS

Regular exfoliation is the key to deep skin cleansing and removing debris. This Gentle Exfoliating Apricot Scrub helps to unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, and stimulate fresh skin cell growth as it nourishes your skin with the Vitamin E of Wheat Germ Oil.

KEY INGREDIENTS

Apricot (an outstanding soother and hydrator that stimulates skin’s healthy texture and structure while discouraging surface bacteria) and Wheat Germ Oil (a source of Vitamin E that nourishes and boosts skin elasticity keeping it fresh and cool with an instant glow.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Gently massage with fingertips in a circular motion over damp face and neck while avoiding the area around the eyes. Wash off and pat dry. Use 2-3 times a week for healthy, glowing skin. Suitable for all skin types.

PACKAGING

The product comes in a squeeze-type bottle so it's very handy and is excellent for travels. It also displays all the necessary information about the product such as the claims, ingredients, usage and expiry date.

SCENT, CONSISTENCY AND EASE OF APPLICATION

The scent is weird and somewhat similar to herbs - I'm not sure how to describe it but there's barely any trace of fragrance to it which is fine with me. I think this is because this product is made of natural ingredients. Sometimes, products that have synthetic fragrance tend to be irritating on the skin. Product has a good consistency, creamy and exfoliating with tiny apricot seeds. It reminds me of one of my all-time favorite facial scrubs - St. Ives Blemish Control Apricot Scrubs. There's really some difference in terms of formulation but if I know any better, I'd say that the one from Himalaya Herbals is St. Ives-inspired, just a little short on the exfoliating factor.

Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Apricot Scrub has a creamy formulation and based on my observation, the quantity of the scrubs are slightly more than that of the other variant that Himalaya Herbals has - the Clear Complexion Whitening Face Scrub. For me, that's better because it's more softening and the scrubs sort of relaxes my nerves. You just have to be careful when applying it on your skin because the beads are a bit abrasive and if you massage it too much with heavy fingertips, it can scratch the skin and cause more damage.

PERFORMANCE

Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Apricot Scrub is a nice face scrub if you are looking for an all-natural alternative. It does its job in getting rid of rough spots while moisturizing and cooling the skin. It also didn't cause me to break out badly or experience any negative reactions. I just think that the price of P99 for a 50ml product is a bit too much. Also, I have tried a few other face scrubs that are cheaper and works better for my oily skin type so with that, it made me contemplate on whether I should buy again or not. In the long run, it doesn't make any much difference on my skin probably because I also limit my usage to once or twice a week.

I probably would pass on this product. I've know a lot and read a few reviews on beauty forums that they like this scrub but I guess it's just not for me. I don't think it should cease to exist but there's just other alternatives that I love more.

What do you think of Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Apricot Scrub? Hot or not?

Himalaya Herbals Gentle Exfoliating Apricot Scrub

Bought for: free with points | SRP: P99 (50ml)

Bought from: Sampleroom

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Maxipeel Micro-Exfoliant Soap Review

Say I'm a late bloomer because I just recently discovered that Maxipeel has a face and body soap too called the Maxipeel Micro-Exfoliant Soap. I'm quite familiar with Maxipeel line because I have tried almost, if not all, of their face products. There are a few that I remember to have great liking to such as the exfoliant solution, moisturizing cream, and classic facial cleanser. I also used to love their facial wash and scrub! I remember myself repurchasing their facial scrub over and over way back college years. Just recently, during my random visit to the drugstore, I've looked for it everywhere but to no avail. Maybe they already discontinued the product? I don't know but I'm hoping that they just ran out of stock.

There are also a few that I think are so-so, say the sun protection, concealing and exfoliating creams. I also did not see much effect with the popular Maxipeel Zero Micro-Exfoliant Fluid either. Hmm, remind me to do a detailed review of each products, will you?

CLAIMS

Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Soap is specifically designed to compliment exfoliating skin. It has Skin Renewal System that removes dead skin cells to reveal a blemish-free, smoother and whiter skin all over the body. This product is anti-acne (contains salicylic acid to prevent body breakouts such as those on back, shoulders and chest); smoothening (has micro-beads that gently massage your skin to remove dead skin cells); and whitening (evens out and whitens skin complexion in as fast as 5 to 7 days). Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Soap can be used for face and for body and is dermatologically-proven safe and effective.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Apply on skin during bathing and while washing the face. Leave for at least 1 minute. Wash and dry. You may apply other complementary products after washing with Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Soap. Apply Maxi-Peel Sun Protection Cream during day time for added protection. Apply Maxi-Peel Micro-Exfoliant Cream during night time to avoid too much dryness of the skin.

The product comes in a box and there you'll find all necessary information like claims, ingredients, manufacturing dates, etc. Scent is very fresh and mild. Not overpowering. Product is off-white in color and as you look closer, you'll see that it has micro beads which aids in skin exfoliation.

I personally didn't like using this soap on my face because I prefer a milder facial wash considering that by the time I was using this soap, I'm also using the exfoliant solution for my breakouts. Using both will be just too much. I'm not comfortable scrubbing my face with this soap just so I can feel the tiny beads. So I mainly use this product all over my body from neck downwards.

This soap reminds me of Belo Essentials Papaya Brightening + Clearing Soap in terms of texture and the feel of it on your hands. Although I'm not used to applying Maxipeel Micro-Exfoliant Soap on my face, I did like the feeling of it on my body. The scrubs made my skin firmer and it soft of relaxes my nerves too. If you are someone who's tired from work, going home and resting with a warm bath and exfoliating soap is quite helpful. The only downside is that as the soap gets smaller, the lesser the beads you'll feel and the lather will be not as rich. I think that's the case with most bar soaps. Anyway, this is inexpensive so repurchasing wouldn't be too much.

I didn't have that much 'backne' or pimples on my body but I do get them from time to time. Using this soap helped me dry them out faster and the blemishes lighter. You just have to religiously use the soap and let it stay for about a minute or two before your rinse it off. Fortunately, my skin doesn't develop any irritations or itchiness after several days of using. You just have to make sure to slather a great amount of body lotion after bath to help replenish lost moisture. That's the thing with most exfoliants - they could be drying.

Maxipeel Micro-Exfoliant Soap is able to soften and smoothen my skin all over. It also helps to look a lot clearer too. It leaves me squeaky clean after every wash and it feels refreshing. As for the whitening claims, my skin is somewhat fair in the first place so I'm just considering it as a maintenance product. It won't whiten your skin significantly or fully remove scars and blemishes, but you can expect that it will enhance the skin's natural radiance and glow. The secret is to use it consistently. Overall, not a bad product for the price and I'll surely consider buying it again in the near future.

Maxipeel Micro-Exfoliant Soap

Bought for: P39 (90g)

Bought from: Watsons

Available in: 65g (P25), 90g (39), 125g (P53)

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Product Empties: March 2020

Time flies by so swiftly, don't you think? We're down to the second quarter of 2020 and here I am thinking, where the hell did the past few months go? What have I achieved in my life this year? Hmm. I couldn't think of any truthfully. But anyway, there's barely enough time for going back, much more for regrets. Let's just move forward and discuss about the products I emptied last month.

I was thinking of sharing a glimpse of review per item on the picture but most likely, I'll be posting a separate full review for each so just scratch that. You might wanna check the links down below for the full feature. In case links are broken, you can use my search bar instead. Kamsahamnida! :)

Pond's White Beauty Spotless Rosy White Day Cream

Chica Y Chico One Kill Eyeliner Liquid Brush Pen

Scent Swatch Pink Sherbet Eau de Parfum

Esme Organics Honey Cold Wax

Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover

Piel Underarm Lightening Solution

I guess that's everything. I'm looking forward for more products to hit pan for the next few months! What about you?

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Honest Review of Elujai Propolis Myrrh Ampoule

Ampuole is the usually the 6th step on the very popular 10-step Korean skin care routine. I would lie if I say that I religiously follow it only for the reason that I was born to be inconsistent LOL. No matter how hard I try, I always end up doing three steps (minimum) and then add a few more on certain days depends on the availability of time and, the most contributing factor - my mood (haha!). Sometimes I label essences, serums, creams and the like as moisturizers with just different formulation, texture and scent. Considering my oily skin and the humid tropical weather, I just can't use these altogether unless I don't mind looking like a huge grease ball. The good thing here is, I still keep a routine and chooses products that work for my skin type.

Today, we will be talking about Elujai Propolis Myrrh Ampoule. Elujai is a Korean brand and it's popular mainly because their products are inexpensive and are well-loved by many. This particular product right here used to be popular way back. Now the trend has died down, it doesn't make sense that I am still writing this but for the sake of having a new blog, please hear me out hehe!

 CLAIMS

Elujai Propolis Myrrh Ampoule is a lightweight concentrate that helps minimize the look of blemishes. It treats melasma, hyperpigmentation, freckles, dark spots and pimple marks as it nourishes, moisturizes and heals with propolis. It also helps boost elasticity with myrrh oil. It softens, smoothens and brightens. It is perfect for a clearer, more flawless complexion.

PACKAGING

I bought the bottle as it is. The seller was kind enough to pack it with bubble wraps and cartons so I got mine without any damages. It comes with a dropper. I think I may have gotten a damaged stock because mine leaks a bit when I accidentally left it in my makeup pouch. It would be better to store it upright. Although the bottle is tiny, I couldn't get myself to bring it to travel because it's fragile and again, mine has the tendency to leak. Bottle is amber-colored, has a gold cap and white rubber. Overall, the packaging looks like it's expensive when it's only P120 (barely $3). During sale, this could go down to as low as P90. Steal, right?

The only thing is that it only has 15ml of product inside so it runs out pretty fast. I don't think it's too bothersome because it's cheap anyway and the amount is perfect for those who are looking for trial packs and aren't ready to commit yet.

SCENT, TEXTURE AND EASE OF APPLICATION

This ampuole is almost transparent ( has the slightest bit of honey color), and has a serum-like consistency. It has a subtle refreshing scent. Despite the presence of oil, this is lightweight and is absorbed easily by the skin. It leaves a dewy finish and it hydrates without too much oiliness. I also didn't have a problem applying in underneath makeup, in fact, my foundation glides easily. It doesn't warm my skin up too unlike other oils and thick moisturizers.

PERFORMANCE

I have tried this product and during my first week (application is twice a day), in all honesty, I didn't see any noticeable changes on my complexion. My blemishes are still as prominent as they were, my skin tone is the same, my pores are still huge as ever. Then gradually, I noticed small pimples popping up from places that I rarely develop breakouts. I thought it's purging but I'm more sure that it's an adverse reaction from using something that is not suitable for my skin. I stopped for a week and like what I always do, I gave it another shot. I still have a pretty decent amount left anyway. The effect is still the same. My skin is becoming to look dull and slightly itchy.

I like the formulation and how it hydrates my skin without too much oiliness but I cannot seem to make it work for me. I was using this ampuole together with products that I always use but with this, it seems like my face is rejecting them too.

Overall, I didn't like Elujai Propolis Myrrh Ampoule for what it has done to my skin. I know that it's inexpensive so it saddens me that it didn't work but I guess I'm just getting the price of what I've paid for. I know for some, this ampuole worked but I wouldn't mind spending a little more for skin care that will do me more good than harm.

Have you tried this ampuole? Did it work for you?

Elujai Propolis Myrrh Ampuole

Bought for: P120 (15ml)

Bought from: an online retailer

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Real Techniques Instapop Face Brush Review

Hey, there! It's been a while! I've been binge-watching some Korean dramas that the intensity of the series made me divert my focus and alter my priorities LOL. Anyway, checking everything in my draft folder - it seems like we have too much makeup brushes to review so we'll start off with this Real Techniques Instapop Face Brush I got from a reputable online retailer. If I am not mistaken, the brand released three brushes under the Instapop Collection but because it sucks that we're living in the Philippines so stocks are very limited. I looked up wherever I can and so far, they only have this biggest brush in the collection.

This brush retails for $10.99 when you're someone who's buying from overseas/US site but because of tax and shipping, I got mine for P650 which I think is a pretty decent price. The version I got is the revamped one because way back 2017 or 2018, the first release of this collection had them in the old packaging (orange handle and black rubber butt). I've always liked the old packaging of Real Techniques if you would ask me but production has been halted so the new version will do.

As you can see, it comes in a salmon pink brass handle (?) and a darker shade of pink on the bottom. I loved the quality of Real Techniques brushes as they never shed at all even with numerous washes. The brush heads flare very minimally but nothing a cheap brush net wouldn't fix. I think that the bristles are very soft in general and is made of high quality synthetic hairs. The handle is sturdy and the name imprinted on it doesn't come off so easily. I've always think that they are the best drugstore brushes you'll find out there in terms of price and performance.

According to the website, the Instapop Face Brush is designed for full coverage setting, baking and powder application. Product features include extreme taper for concentrated application and is ideal for loose powders. This brush is 100% cruelty-free.

For me, the shape is unusual but effective. It reminds me of my old Marc Jacobs Face Brush II - Sculpting Foundation Brush which I got for over 2k. You can buy Instapop for a fraction of its price. Instapop is just bigger and less denser than that of the Marc Jacobs'. The brush has a greater flexibility so it can reach the nooks and curves of the face. Since it's not that firm, I just think that it's not the best choice for blending base makeups like foundation and concealers. This is my own personal preference though. I know other people who like to use this brush for liquid foundation application and they claim that this gives light coverage.

Anyway, it's not intended for liquid makeups but because of the shape, I thought of experimenting a bit and maybe I could find other uses more than what it's made for.

What I like about this brush is the softness of the bristles (won't scratch the face at all) and the tapered edge so it's really great for packing loose powders on the face or setting the face after you apply your foundation. It's really great for baking under the eyes too. The size of the brush head makes it applicable for blush and bronzer. It picks up a great amount of pigment and then pack it to your skin with minimal fallouts.

Despite all the good things we've heard about this brush, I wouldn't recommend splurging for this because there are other brushes that are more versatile and would do a better job. I just got this brush out of impulse since I am a makeup brush collector and that it feels right to own even just one brush from the collection. Overall, it's a good, useful brush but if I am to separate my top and holy grails, this wouldn't count as one.

Do you own an instapop brush? Care to share your thoughts?

Real Techniques Instapop Face Brush

Bought for: P650 | SRP: $10.99

Bought from: an online retailer

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