RRAW Skincare 1% Retinol Cream (Vitamin A) Review

Hey, it's Hanna and today is Christmas so sending you all kisses and hugs! May the rest of your days be filled with prosperity and love!

This blog is actually long overdue. I hear people say, "what's new?". Okay, I'm so sorry that I keep neglecting this blog but I have actually been working on some stuff on the background. Promise. The past few weeks, I have been going through each and every one of my previous blog posts, editing and/or sending some to trash, because I don't know what has gotten into me that at some point, they were published. LOL. I found out that a lot of old posts have photos that were deleted and I have no idea why. Also found some links that are no longer working. This may take years to fix but I'm going to try. Anyway, the purpose is to make this outlet a little bit reader-friendlier.

So yeah, agenda today is to review RRAW Skincare 1% Retinol Cream. Now before I start, let me make it clear to everyone that I am no expert in skincare ingredients or just the science behind the efficacy of such product/ingredient, and everything posted is based on my own experience. I have oily, acne-prone skin and I believe that our skin conditions aren't always similar, so what works (or not work) for me may or may not work for you.

RRAW Skincare 1% Retinol Cream (Vitamin A) 50g

Retinol is almost always the answer to pretty much any skin issues: acne, fine lines, brown spots, drooping, dullness, dark circles, enlarged pores — you name it! The transformative ingredient is pure vitamin A.

Our 1% retinol cream contains retinoid acid, the active form of Vitamin A that immediately binds with receptors on our skin cells, causing them to behave younger and healthier!

What you can expect:

Normalized cell turnover for clear skin

Glowing skin

Balanced pigment production for fewer splotches

Accelerate collagen synthesis for smoother skin and tighter pores

Fading age spots

Important:

If you've never tried any type of retinol cream, serum, oil, etc, you should know that it does come with an adjustment period!

Clinically, we've seen that it takes about three weeks for skin cells to adapt to retinoic acid and begin building their tolerance, so please expect some degree of irritation at first but this is completely normal!

We suggest that for your first few retinol applications that you mix our 1% retinol cream with your current moisturizer to dilute it.

Our 1% retinol cream is UNSCENTED and NO PIGMENTS to avoid irritations. Only the good stuff!

You've probably heard a lot about the importance and efficiency of Retinols from before, you might have tried a few ones too. In my case, this is the very first Retinol product I have tried ever. I am in my mid-20s and I am more eager to discover skincare that would slow down signs of aging. This is basically the reason that pushes me to try this.

Most of the Retinol stuff I've found online were actually expensive. I chose this one from RRaw because it's more on the budget-friendly side. I got these on a BOGO deal so it appears even more affordable, as I already got two containers for the price of one (P499). The 50g amount also goes a long way since you don't need a lot for every application, considering you can dilute it with your moisturizers. I'm also quite amazed that it's actually full to the brim.

If this is your first time incorporating Retinol in your skincare, it's advised to mix with your moisturizers as this is a strong concentration. Be careful and keep the instructions in mind, so you would avoid side effects like burning and irritation. I've read some people getting terrible results, I even experienced them myself, but I guess the key is to always read and follow, become consistent and also keep in mind that there is an adjustment period of up to 3-4 weeks. Please make sure to use a high SPF during the day. This is very important especially if you are using strong ingredients in your skincare.

To be honest, I wasn't as obedient at first. I was so impatient so I only partly follow what was advised. I was thinking that my skin has survived a lot of strong skincare before when I used TO's AHA+ BHA Peeling Solution and even Maxipeel Exfoliant. The pain was bearable for me so I initially thought that using Retinol cream every night wouldn't be any different. This is a mistake I would like you to take note of and avoid as much as possible.

Since your skin is not that familiar yet with retinoids, slowly introduce your skin to it by using only once or twice a week, then gradually increasing frequency to every other night and then every night as tolerated. Mix only a small amount with your moisturizer. In my case, I would apply layers of skincare first to act as a barrier before applying the retinol cream. I find that the cream is more spreadable and would feel less irritating when doing so.

The cream is faint yellow in color from the container, fragrance-free, and dries to a semi-matte finish. Though I feel like it takes a while before it gets absorbed completely. It makes my skin warm and looks greasy after a few hours. I don't mind so long as it works.

The cream doesn't have a very consistent texture, particles with  darker yellow colors are present, so it makes me think that the ingredients aren't mixed so well. It's not a major deal though. This could be because it only has a few ingredients on the list - mostly raw, organic and natural - so it lacks the additional unnecessary ingredients that would make the product achieve a better consistency.

I've mentioned earlier that I started in the wrong foot with this product. On the first week, I applied this every night for 3 consecutive days, mixed about less than half pea-sized amount with my other skincare. I stopped applying on the fourth day, because my skin feels so itchy with redness and burning. I can see some parts of my skin on the face already peeling. I let my skin heal for the rest of the days on my first week before starting to use the product again.

This time, I decided to use the product once every two or three days depends on whether my skin can tolerate the pain or not. The pain became more tolerable this way. This was also the time I started getting new breakouts. I think it was normal as it's part of using retinols and because I usually get stuff like this whenever I am using a new product. When my skin feels a bit sore or uncomfortable, I would skip the retinol and soothe it using my regular serum and moisturizer.

I have been using the product on and off for a period of two months and the stinging sensation and itchiness don't completely go away. It's always there especially when skin is ready to peel. I don't think this is something I would want and continue to keep using since I now prefer gentler skincare that also works the same without the peeling and stinging. Having peeling skin also makes it harder to put on seamless makeup and it makes my skin looks and feels oilier than how it usually is. Although I would say that it helps with lightening acne marks a bit.

Like what I have said, I've tried gentler skincare products before, most recent once which I genuinely like are Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA Super Serum and Moisturiser, both of which also works for my acne marks. For the same time period, I've noticed better effects and faster results compared to when using this retinol cream. RRAW Skincare 1% Retinol Cream isn't completely bad but I guess, it's a matter of preference. If you are interested to buy one, you may shop here.

Do let me know if you have any recommendations or any tips you'd like to share to me. I really would like to know more anything about skincare!

Facebook ♡ Instagram ♡ Twitter ♡ Tumblr ♡ Bloglovin ♡ Fashiolista ♡ Wattpad ♡ Pinterest

Top 3 Local Couriers in The Philippines To Choose If You Are Living from the South

Way back 2017, I have written a blog post about the best couriers in the Philippines that I've known and tried. I haven't been able to update my list over the years and that's why I'm writing this. While I'm pretty sure you have your own favorites, I have mine too. I'll list them down shortly.

I lived from the North then (Valenzuela), but last year, we decided to move to the South (Cavite). I have come to realize that there's a scarcity of couriers from where I am now, compared to when I was living in the metro. I guess most couriers service NCR addresses because that's probably where e-commerce businesses are more active . Although it's just an assumption. :D

Anyway, I've googled and checked out a few websites. I found one that picks up from our area, but they have minimum parcel requirement. I am not a bigtime seller and I don't ship a lot in one batch. In fact, I only sell a few preloved items when I declutter, so reaching the required number is quite an impossible feat.

There's another one which I've only recently heard of. The thing is, shipping cost is quite expensive if I ship from where I am, going to different parts of the country. A big no-no for my regular buyers-turned-online friends.

So here I've listed the 3 couriers which I trust. They aren't completely flawless in terms of their shipping and delivery services but I am at my most comfortable when I trust my parcel with them.

 

 

1. GOGO XPRESS

It was formerly known as Xpost and even when I was from the north, I always use their service and almost all my transactions were excellent. The shipping rates aren't the cheapest, but still worth it in my opinion. Shipping was extremely fast compared to competitors, riders were friendly and courteous. They offer free pickup, free item protection (up to PHP500) and free COD transactions.

Their app is their biggest edge in my opinion. From scheduling a pickup to tracking and final deliveries, everything has been smooth for me for about 2 years. Until recently, when there has been a major change in their management, there were so many delays and backlogs but they were able to quickly recover. A few days after, they released a memorandum stating that they were withdrawing their partnership with Shopee. Another major change I observed was when they limit the serviceable areas for pickup to NCR and a few cities in Cavite and Rizal. Unfortunately, Tanza isn't one of those. I am still hoping for them to widen their coverage as soon as possible.

This is why I was forced to search for a different courier. A reasonably-priced courier that would pick up from my place and would offer that door-to-door service and parcel protection. Basically something that would outperform Gogo Xpress.

2. J&T EXPRESS

I have known J&T for years but it was only until recently that I decided to try them in place of Gogo. It was recommended by a previous buyer who wanted to save on shipping because Gogo, was well, more expensive. At first, I was under the impression that I could only dropship with J&T, just like JRS, LBC and more, but I found out I could also schedule a pickup online. The good thing is that they also pick up parcels from provincial places like ours, at no charge and they would even print your waybills for you. Great for those who ship small amount of parcels.

The only setback I always encounter is the booking process. I even had a hard time signing up for an account. Not sure whether it's a system glitch, but I always find it hard to schedule a pickup. Searching for the barangay, city, province is what prolongs the process. Sometimes, when I'm almost done, I'd still get this error 'order failed' or 'wrong sender address' and I'm like, how could that happen??? Using their app never fails to test my patience. PLEASE. IMPROVE. YOUR. APP. I.AM.BEGGING.

Nonetheless, I love the cheap rates, occasional vouchers, and accuracy of their tracking and delivery. I hope to never have any lost parcel with you guys hehe.

3. LALAMOVE

I though I might include a same-day shipping courier in my Top 3. I know there are other options like Grab or Angkas or Mr. Speedy (now Borzo Delivery I think), and I'm actually torn, but I would just say Lalamove since it's usually cheaper and most of my same-day bookings are with them. Although I have to be honest and tell you the not-so-good experiences I had with Lalamove.

First and foremost, it's usually hard to book a rider to pickup from my place to NCR and vice versa. I understand it could be the price surge in gas nowadays, but I couldn't book unless I add 'tip' on top of the base price. You're lucky enough if you could score a voucher to further lessen the total price. 

Sometimes, riders would ask you if they could mark the shipment complete and add another transaction para sulit daw gas to which I would just say I'm good with so long as the parcel gets delivered safely. Of course, it has to be within the day. I still opted for Lalamove despite everything, because I still find it less expensive. I haven't tried Borzo yet, but it's also cheaper than Grab.

I just wish I could top-up money with no minimum amount required since I don't use Lalamove every so often. That's something I wish they consider.

So there you have it! I wanted to have a lot of options so if you are probably in the same location or know other couriers that would pick up from Tanza, please let me know! I would love to try them out! Thanks so much for dropping by!

Facebook ♡ Instagram ♡ Twitter ♡ Tumblr ♡ Bloglovin ♡ Fashiolista ♡ Wattpad ♡ Pinterest

Ellana 2-in-1 Eyebrow and Eyeliner Gel in Light Brown, Dark Brown and Soft Black Review

I couldn't remember the last time I wore makeup outside because I rarely go out and if I do, I tend to skip that part and stop at sunscreen. But I've never felt this left behind when it comes to skincare and makeup trends. I've thrown away ALL makeups I had (except for a single tint) because I had them pre-pandemic. And I think they were just too old and their texture and pigmentation were all compromised. I tried being sentimental about it, but I still prefer starting all over again with few fresh makeups.

What we'll be talking about at this point are some new addition to my mini collection. These are Ellana Cosmetics 2-in-1 Eyebrow and Eyeliner Gels. I got all 3 available shades: Light Brown, Dark, Brown and Soft Black. If you buy them in singles, they retail at PHP499 each. I purchased them at a bundle price of PHP999 (I think?) during the 10.10 sale, comes with free shipping and a freebie primer.

Ingredients

This product claims to be 2-in-1 - an eyebrow and eyeliner gel. I like multipurpose products like this because they save money (and space in your makeup pouch lol). Ellana claims these gels lasts up to 24 hours, and are water-resistant, also has high pigmentation. We'll talk about more of that later on.

Instructions for Use

These gel liners come with a box as you can see on the photos above. Made of glass with silver twist cap, packaging is very simple and travel-friendly.

Ellana 2-in-1 Eyebrow and Eyeliner Gel comes in 3 shades, all perfect for Pinay skin. My personal choice is Dark Brown since my hair is currently not treated with any colors. If you have lighter hair, you can opt for the light brown one and if you have really dark hair, Soft Black might be the best option. All three colors are basic and suitable as eyeliners.

If the products seem dry and not too opaque, you just have swirl your brush continuously to reveal the moisturized layer. Or you can add a very small amount of moisturizer to wet the gel. Check the swatches down below.

I apologize as my brows are untidy, well, it's always like that LOL. To show you it's true color and pigmentation on its own, I skipped the brow gel part. It's just my eyebrows and Ellana 2-in-1 Eyebrow and Eyeliner Gel in Dark Brown.

On my lids, are very thin eye liner and I used the color Soft Black. I honestly like the very subtle colors these products give. However, if you are more into that really solid black liners, I'm sure these aren't for you. These can be a bit patchy as you can see, so you really have to be patient in blending.

I couldn't vouch that it's long-lasting because it cannot withstand my oily lids and skin. One of the things I do to improve its staying power though, is to apply black eyeshadow powder on top to mattify it. It's not completely smudge-proof too as you can see down below. I tried to run over the swatches with my fingers after they completely dried, but the colors still smudge. One of the perks I see is that it's easy to correct or wipe off and reapply as it doesn't completely settle on the skin. These are great options too if you would like to achieve feathery or smokey eyes.

If you are a newbie in makeup, having these products in your stash is beneficial as you can play around and improve how you draw your brows and eyeliner. I would recommend these for beginners because it's easier to correct than waterproof makeups. Staying power is not that impressive but given the price I paid for these, I should not expect so much. Any good eyeliners or eyebrow gels/pomade you want to recommend? :)

Facebook ♡ Instagram ♡ Twitter ♡ Tumblr ♡ Bloglovin ♡ Fashiolista ♡ Wattpad ♡ Pinterest

Luxe Organix Bright Eyes Eye Cream Review (With 80% Galactomyces, Niacinamide, Adenosine and Caffeine)

It's still my birth month and I kept asking myself if that is even a valid reason why I've been splurging for myself a lot lately. If my boyfriend would read this, I might get a scolding. No, just kidding! I don't know about you, but there are times when I think like I deserve it with or without a reason. Most especially whenever I'm feeling anxious or just simply when there's a moment I feel proud of myself.

Anyway, here's another review and it's about Luxe Organix Bright Eyes Eye Cream. I'm sure people know a lot about this brand, I mean it's practically everywhere and everyone is raving about their products. The first thing I've tried from their skincare line, as I remember, was their Bentonite Clay Indian Healing Clay Mask which I've used sometime around 2018. I've been on a hiatus in between so product testing was sort of 'limited'.

I honestly like the white and pink theme and how it comes in an easy-squeeze tube packaging. It's very travel-friendly and I could definitely bring it anywhere with ease. It's also loaded with information such as claims, ingredients, usage, caution, expiration and manufacturing dates, as well as where it's made from. Everything I need to know about it is basically printed on its box.

Ingredients

I've seen here that Luxe Organix Bright Eyes Eye Cream contains 80% Galactomyces and at first, I didn't know what that is. It sounds like something I needed to know about though, considering this is the main and first on the ingredient list.

Aside from addressing dark circles and puffiness while strengthening the moisture barrier, it also slows down signs of aging. A perfect ingredient for an eye cream indeed. It's also loaded with Niacinamide, Adenosine and Caffeine which we know already exists in a lot of skincare because they just simply work.

Claims

Expiration and Manufacturing Dates

This eye cream is very easy to apply, easy to be absorbed. It smells clean and soap-like. Actually, the consistency is soooo good too. It's soft and feels like melting butter. I might sound like I'm exaggerating, but that's how in loved I am with it. It's comparable to an expensive eye cream I had before which I forgot the name LOL. I remember that that just came as a freebie from a haul I had long, long ago. I didn't get to repurchase because the price is just too steep for me. The point is for just PHP199, it's unbelievable how Luxe Organic came up with a product like this.

I admit that I haven't tried a lot of eye cream brands, but right now, it's clear to me how I only have two eye creams that will probably forever be etched in my heart - the expensive one I had before on trial packet and this one from Luxe Organix.

Directions For Use and Caution

Aside from the consistency, I also love how it doesn't burn my eyes. I had an eye cream prior to this, which I find super thick and oily and because it doesn't get absorbed completely, it sometimes spread to my eyes unintentionally as I sleep or even blink. And then, I'd just hate how I'd tear up from the sting.

I know I would definitely buy this again when I ran out. I'm sure this would last long, probably a month, since you only need a very small amount for the under eyes. Right now, it's  just everything I've been looking for in an eye cream - gentle, hydrating and effectively keeps puffiness away. I've been using it for weeks now and it definitely helps reduce puffiness, my eyes seem more wide awake.

With regular use, I am hoping that it could also smoothen out my fine lines, and reduce darkness in my under eyes. That will take a long, long time but consistency is the key. I definitely would recommend this affordable eye cream!

I'm always open to other suggestions. Do let me know what are in your holy grails, I'd love to try them too! See you around next time!

Facebook ♡ Instagram ♡ Twitter ♡ Tumblr ♡ Bloglovin ♡ Fashiolista ♡ Wattpad ♡ Pinterest

WELLSPRING Collagen (Strawberry) and Hyaluronic Acid (Peach) Food Supplement Gummies Review

Hi! I haven't been able to retrieve my old domain so I was out for months. But then I started missing my old habits, so yup, here I am! I just wanted to remind you today to always take care of yourself. There are lots of ways to do it and one of which I could think of is taking food supplements!

Today, I would love to share with you some of my newest discoveries to help with anti-aging and to achieve an overall healthy skin. I am turning 26 in a couple of days and I think this is a perfect age to take more anti-aging products and watch out for wrinkles.

With anti-aging, first thing people would probably have in mind are Collagen food supplements. It's really nice that they now come in gummy forms that we you could actually chew and enjoy, at least I don't have to take those that taste and smell fishy. I mean I'm sure I could tolerate them, but these gummies taste way much better. It makes me look forward to taking them everyday and I don't have to worry about being forgetful. It's like satisfying your sweet cravings and being healthy in one!

I've bought these products online at WellSpring official distributor. The Collagen one retails at around PHP599, while the Hyaluronic Acid at PHP649. I've checked multiple shops and the prices actually vary. I am not sure if there are counterfeits out there , so safest it to only buy at trusted retailers. I got mine though at a bundle deal for PHP799 and comes with free shipping. Each bottle has 60 gummies so that's good for 2 months already.

The packaging is very simple - transparent plastic with opaque white twist cap. Items are sealed when I got them and has an aluminum foil to ensure freshness.

WELLSPRING Collagen Strawberry Flavor Food Supplement (60 Gummies)

Aside from 500mg Collagen, it also has 12mcg Vitamin C (boosts immune system) and 7.5 mcg Biotin (good for the hair, skin and nails). I am not sure if you consider that a significant amount, but taking it with other vitamins or other food enriched with such vitamins, could make a difference.

I've read a few people complain about these products not having enough information. True enough, but I also appreciate how it overall looks simple and direct. I think whatever Collagen or Biotin or whatnot is, information about them is just a Google away.

This is how the gummies look like. To me, they look more like raspberries or something, but taste just like normal strawberry-flavored candies. They are sour but flavorful. Although, it has a weird, bitter taste at first which becomes less distinct once you start chewing the product.

WELLSPRING Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C & Vitamin E Peach Flavor Food Supplement (60 Gummies)

This product has more Vitamin C at 37.5mg compared to the other variant and has added 6.25 mcg Vitamin E. I think they are a good combination to improve overall skin health and promote elasticity. 

Truth be told, I wasn't aware that you can take Hyaluronic Acid orally so this actually surprised me. Good thing though, I don't think I am using any skincare infused with this ingredient, so adding it might be a good idea.

It has a lot of sweeteners and I'm not so sure if that even has an impact on the body. Please enlighten me about it though. It's something you may want to take into consideration before buying this.

These gummies have a completely different texture compared to the strawberry variant, but really has a delicious peach flavor. It is less chewy and more solid on the mouth (I can't really describe it! Lol!). Nonetheless, both taste good and because they are fun to eat, I definitely prefer them than other forms of food supplements. My first love still would be smoothies though. :D

I've been taking them for no more than a month so it's still early to say a lot about the effects but I would continue taking them as I don't see any side effects like breakouts or pretty much anything weird going on in my body. I think they are super affordable too and are easy to buy.

Do let me know if you have any questions! I'll see you around! :*

Facebook ♡ Instagram ♡ Twitter ♡ Tumblr ♡ Bloglovin ♡ Fashiolista ♡ Wattpad ♡ Pinterest