Beauty Stash From Manila

A few weeks back, I've shared my love for Human Nature products. Today, I'll share my other loved beauty stash from Manila, Philippines.

I love buying cosmetics, bath stuff, perfume and colognes. I'm such a girl when it comes to these things.  I make it a point to bring home some beauty products I discover during travel. In Manila, they've got lots of good beauty products that are reasonably priced. Here are some of my favourites:

Camay Bath Shower Gels in Grapefruit, Rose and Vanilla variants. I remember Camay soap bars came out when I was young and when I came back to Manila last year, they now come in the form of shower gels. I bought all the three variants and used them during my stay. The Husband loved them too. I loved how fragrant they are and how they made my skin supple shower after shower. My favourite from all them was the Grapefruit variant as it's the most refreshing of all three.

These aren't new but two of my most loved fragrances come from Johnson's Baby Cologne and Baby Bench Colognia. These are the most refreshing fragrances especially in Summer.

Ever Bilena Magic Lipstick and Color Pencil. I use the Color Pencil for shaping my eyebrows and it stays on for the whole day. The Magic Lipstick is called such because it stays on for a long time...as in! I use the Magic Lipstick as a lipstick base and then layer up with another lip colour. It goes well with most lip colours. The best thing about these two products is that they are very affordable. 

Kokuryu Placenta Cream is a Japanese brand but I found it in an SM Department Store. We have placenta creams here in Australia but I found Kokuryu better. It's runny and very greasy--you may not like the feel of it--but it never makes my skin oily during the day. I wake up with skin that's hydrated and fresh. It's my best Winter moisturiser to date. I finished a small bottle last year and my face never went dry even during the coldest days of Winter. I asked my Mom to get me another bottle for this year's winter season which she brought with her last November. The best thing about it is it's very affordable (not more than P300).

The Philippines have a lot of beauty and well-being products and I hope to discover some of them when I visit again.

Beauty Stash: Human Nature Products

This was something I picked up during our visit in Manila last year. I plan to share my other beauty finds when we were there but for now, I believe these Human Nature products deserve its own blog feature. 

What attracted me to Human Nature products? It's organic, reasonably-priced and has pretty packaging. I also like that they have a great website where you can learn about their company and products and shop online too. 

These are the products I've tried so far:

Calming and Rejuvenating Massage Oil. I suffer from frozen shoulder (stiff shoulders due to cold weather, lifting heavy items, computer stress, poor posture, etc) during cold season and I found that massaging oil on my shoulders and back helps in preventing this to occur. I massage some oil on before bedtime and it keeps my shoulder and back warm at night. I like the smell of both variants, it really calms and rejuvenates, and at the same time moisturises my skin. 

Natural Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner (with Soothing Aloe). I'm not very lucky when it comes to organic/natural shampoos and conditioner because sometimes they still make my scalp dry. Thankfully, these ones from Human Nature feels gentle to the scalp. I noticed too that I have less hair fall when I use these. 

Sunflower Beauty Oil. I've read on HN's site of the many uses of this wonder oil before deciding to buy it. I love this oil and I'm so glad I gave this one a try. I use it as a moisturiser before bedtime. After a few days of use, I noticed the size of my pores have minimised and my skin has become less oily. My breakouts have lessened too and it brightened my skin. I normally use a different moisturiser during Summer season but even if this was made of oil, it's still perfect for Summer as it's not sticky. It's the perfect moisturiser for the whole year. 

If you're in Manila, visit one of their stores (locations list) or if you would love to do some online shopping for natural beauty products, check out Human Nature's website (http://humanheartnature.com/buy/index.php/).

Pure Aloe Soothing Gel BY Deoproce, Perfect For Summer Weather

Summer is here in Sydney and we've had very hot days since December, a few days of heatwave here and there. The heat in Australia is very dry while the sun rays hurt the skin even if exposure is just for a few minutes. Skin hydration and sunburn are two important concerns during these times. 

When it comes to skin care, I'm fond of oil and creams but for the Summer season, I looked for a skin hydrating product that is less sticky but will soothe, hydrate and feel cool to the skin. I'm glad that a visit to a Korean beauty store in Strathfield led me to finding Deoproce's Pure Aloe Soothing Gel. It came in a 700gram and 300ml bottles. 

The amount of soothing gel that I bought seemed a lot but the Husband and I are sharing. This is what we currently put on at night before we go to bed. We apply an ample amount unto our arms, legs and feet. It makes us feel cooler and it does help soothe, instantly moisturise and hydrate the skin after a long day of hot weather. Our skin feels smoother without the sticky feeling that creams give. The staff that sold us this item recommended that we store this inside the fridge so it'll be cooler during application.

Deoproce's Pure Aloe Soothing Gel is made up of 92% organic aloe.  It has a mild formulation as it has no parabens, mineral oils, formaldehyde, benzophenone, synthetic colourants and animal ingredients. I found this at A'HA Beauty Store (1 The Boulevard, Strathfield).

Beauty Stash: OPI Vintage Minnie Minis

Here's another cute find of mine.

OPI Nail Polish is one of the famous brands in the market because of its wonderful colours and safe formulation (no formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate and toulene). I have tried OPI and found out that it doesn't chip easily. 

A few months ago, I found these cute-sized OPI bottles containing red and pink colours as a tribute to Minnie Mouse. 

They even named the colours in honour of Minnie.

From left to right:

RapiDry Top Coat. Non-yellowing, ends smears, smudges and streaks.

I'm All Ears. For those who love a shimmery magenta.

The Color of Minnie. The red that is the colour of Minnie Mouse.

If You Moust You Moust. For pretty-in-Pink nails in matte. 

The little bottles come in 3.75ml which perfect for someone like me who would like to try different colours and didn't want the trouble of finishing up a bottle.

Found these at CatchOfTheDay.com.au

The Dry Skin Brushing Experience

One of the healthy habits I discovered this year was dry brushing of the skin. A beauty blog has led me to information about it and while I was open to trying it out, it took me some time to finally buy my first dry brush and making it a habit. 

What is Dry Brushing? It is a way of exfoliating the skin by using just a brush. No water needed. It aids in the detoxification of the body's lymphatic system.

I purchased a dry brush when I was in Manila last April. I found a reasonably-priced dry brush at Watsons (not more than P500.00) and it was only here in Sydney that I started using it. 

Did I like using it? Yes. My skin immediately adjusted to the bristles of the brush. It was neither hard nor soft, it just had enough roughness to exfoliate the skin. 

Effects on My Skin and Body. After a few days of dry brushing, I noticed my stretchmarks have disappeared and my cellulites have reduced. I noticed too that even if it's Winter now, I don't suffer from too much dryness of skin. 

When and How Often Do I Dry Brush? I dry brush before I take a shower and I try to do it everyday. Although on some days I can't because I woke up late and rushing in the morning to go to work BUT I try to do it as regularly as possible.

Let me share with you a few things I learned about dry brushing:

Benefits of Dry Brushing

• Removes dead layers of skin and other outer impurities.
• Stimulates and increases blood circulation.
• Helps release fatty deposits under your skin’s surface.
• Assists the eliminative capacity of your body’s organs.
• Rejuvenates your cells.
• Strengthens your immune system.
• Increases muscle tone.
• Improves skin texture.
• Helps prevent premature ageing.

How To Dry Brush: 
(source)

1. Begin with your feet and brush vigorously in circular motions.
2. Continue brushing up your legs.
3. Proceed to your hands and arms.
4. Brush your entire back and abdomen area, shoulders and neck.
5. Use circular counter-clockwise strokes on the abdomen.
6. Use light pressure on the breasts and any other sensitive areas.
7. Brush upwards on the back and down from the neck. Better yet, have a friend, spouse or family member brush your back.

A short video I found which shows the proper way of dry skin brushing:

(source)

Some Tips:

• You will need a brush with soft natural bristles for dry brushing. Do not use synthetic bristles. Buy one that has a longer handle so it'll be easier to reach your back and sides.
• Make sure that the dry brushing is done softly in the initial stages so that soreness is avoided. 
• Application of a little more pressure can be done as your skin gets used to dry brushing.
• Your skin and brush should be dry. Shower after skin brushing to remove exfoliated skin.
• Do not do any dry brushing over cuts, wounds or rashes.
• Begin by brushing the outermost parts of your body (hands and feet) towards the center of your body.
• Pass the brush once over your body, except the face.
• The brush strokes should move towards your heart. This improvement in blood circulation is why so many people feel extremely refreshed after an energetic session of dry brushing.
• It is only when you are dry brushing your stomach that you are going to apply clockwise brushing movements.
• Slight flushing of the skin is normal, due to increased circulation. The skin should not be red or irritated, if it is you're using too much pressure.
• The entire process should only take one to two minutes.
• Clean the brush meticulously after every brushing session.
• If your skin is extremely dry, rub some oil into it after you have brushed it and showered. 

Have you tried dry skin brushing? If so, what effects did you experience after dry brushing your skin?

Beauty Stash: Zoya Nail Polish

Here's my favourite brand of nail polish...ZOYA, one that I discovered when a relative from America brought this little bottle and gave it to me. 

Why I love it:

1. Easy to apply--it glides and covers easily!

2. It stays on for 5-7 days even if I wash the dishes everyday.

3. It's lasts long and doesn't easily chip.

4. It's a non-toxic nail polish.

Zoya Nail Polish was created by Zoya Reysis who, as a pregnant aesthetician and salon owner in 1984, wanted to create a healthier option. While it is not water-based, it is free of toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP. It's the top-rated and longest wearing natural nail polish. It receives top ratings in fashion, health, and pregnancy magazines world wide. It is also used in the finest salons and spas world wide and is available in over 240 fashionable colors. (source)

I've never seen ZOYA available in stores here in Sydney. With salons, I wouldn't know too as I've always done my nails on my own. But I found out recently that there's an online store here in Australia that sells them.

The Art of Beauty Australia website currently has a clearance sale and I was able to buy three ZOYA bottles.

From L to R: 

Laney. Silver metallic duochrome. A frosty hint of green creates a unique "oil-slick" look.

Lana. A very different rich red metallic duochrome. A frosty hint of orange creates a unique "oil-slick" look. (By far, the most complimented nail colour I've worn)

Reece. Rose metallic duochrome. A frosty hint of gold creates a unique "oil-slick" rose-gold.

While I still use an array of nail polish, ZOYA is my favourite from all nail polishes I've used. 

Beauty Stash: Spa Line from Imperial Leather

I'm loving the Spa Line bodywash of Imperial Leather. So far, I've come across the Korean Spa, Bali Spa and Japanese Spa. Imperial Leather's bodywash comes with triple moisturisers, is rich and creamy, skin-friendly and soap free. 

The Korean Spa bodywash is a moisturising shower cream with Pomengranate and Hibiscus milk. The Bali Spa has Coconut milk and Tiare flower. The Japanese Spa is made up of Jasmine and Green Tea. All three  have refreshing fragrances that doesn't irritate the skin. The moisturising cream leaves my skin soft and smooth. 

This is not a paid post.

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Beauty Stash: Moisturising's My Skin Care Advocacy

If there is one thing that I'd be an advocate of when it comes to skin care, it would be on the importance of moisturising.

There's always a story behind everyone's advocacy and here's mine:

I grew up in a tropical country and have always had oily skin. When I was in my early 20's I thought that I won't ever need to use moisturisers on my face. I only wear sunblock when I go to the beach. I put lotion on days when I feel like it. I gave more importance to cleansing and keeping oil controlled and pimples at bay. 

I moved here when I turned 28 and I had to change my skincare routine as my skin is  exposed to four seasons in a year. On the first year I experienced winter, I saw a skincare specialist because my skin was so dry. I learned a lot of things from the skincare specialist I met: 
(1) That even if I had oily skin, moisturising and using sunblock is as important as cleansing.
(2) People with oily skin can find suitable moisturisers (i.e. water-based moisturisers).
(3) You can use oil to moisturise and it won't clog your pores and add oiliness to your skin. 
(4) Different seasons calls for different moisturisers. I was advised to have a richer moisturiser during cold season and a lighter one during warm season.
(5) The earlier you start putting moisturisers, the better. 
(6) Drink lots of water. 

The sun is harsh these days that it leads to premature wrinkles and sunspots and worse, skin cancer, hence, I have realised the importance of wearing sunblock too.

I've seen men and women who look too wrinkly and "sun-spotty" for their age who love the outdoors and bask in the glory of the sun without wearing moisturisers with sunblock. It's not about vanity really but more about taking care of the only skin we have. It is inevitable for all of us to have wrinkles and sunspots--all of us will have them as we grow older.  However, seeing people who take care of their skin well, a part of how they take care of their well-being, is always admirable.

Since I've met a skincare specialist, I've given more attention to keeping my skin hydrated. Below are a few items I trust which works well for me:

Petroleum Jelly. I use this for moisturising the lips at nightime. I also use this to moisturise the hands and feet during winter time (after putting on hands and feet, wear gloves and socks overnight).

Carmex Lip Balm. They're the best thing that ever happened to my lips! I hoard them when they go on sale. I love that they have a variant that has SPF.

Tip when moisturising lips at night: Moisturise the edge of your lips as this will help prevent pre-wrinkles.

Daytime Moisturising with Sunblock:

BB Cream. This serves as a foundation, moisturiser and sunblock. I use them when I go out. If you want to know about BB Creams, please read my article here. I'm currently using Skinfood's Good Afternoon Peach Green Tea and once I'm finished with this tube, I'll be using Missha's M Signature Real Complete BB Cream.

Sunscreen Lotion. I use this during the day to protect the other parts of my body, particularly the arms and legs. I look for a sunscreen that moisturises, doesn't feel sticky and cause blemishes. 

Night Time Moisturising:

Sorbolene Cream. Other than moisturising with oil after bath, this works in keeping my skin hydrated during cold season.

J&J Bedtime Lotion. I prefer this during warm season as it's light and mild. Smells great too.

Paw Paw Balm. After putting lotion on my hands, I follow it up with a little Paw Paw Balm to soothe it some more. I take particular care of my hands as it's the most used part of my body (cooking, washing dishes etc).

Eye Moisturiser. Since it's summer time now, I use Garnier's Eye Roll On as it's lighter but during winter, I prefer using Clinique's All About Eyes.

Rosehip Oil. I used this to moisturise my face. Three drops of this and it goes a long way. If you want to know more about my Top 5 favourite oils, please click here.

As we grow older, our skin loses the ability to retain water as it once did so a little help from moisturisers and sunblocks will be beneficial to us. And please, always drink lots of water as it hydrates from the inside and has other health benefits too.

Happy Friday!

Beauty Stash: The Clarisonic Mia 2

Since I've been married, I never had the discipline to have facials. Other than being turned off by expensive costs of having facials here in Australia, I'd rather spend my time doing other things. However, I'm aware that it is important to take care of one's skin especially as one gets older. Then I discovered a skin cleansing gadget called Clarisonic Mia which cleans the skin more thoroughly by using a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second.  For weeks, I studied the information in their website and read lots of reviews from beauty bloggers around the world. Then I thought of giving myself this as a Christmas present when I saw a good deal online. After two weeks, my Christmas pressie to myself arrived!

There are a few kinds of Clarisonic Mias but I chose the Clarisonic Mia 2 which has 2 speeds, a one-minute pulsing T-Timer and a protective travel case.

It also came with a 30ml Clarisonic Refreshing Gel which works well with my skin as it's gentle, doesn't leave my skin oily and doesn't cause me to break out.

The Clarisonic Mia 2 comes with a sensitive brush head (they have a variety of brush heads you can choose from) to easily introduce one's skin to sonic cleansing. It is advised to change the brush head every three to four months.

Charging the Clarisonic Mia 2 for the first time took 24 hours. I was very happy when the light finally signaled that it was fully-charged. 

The main reason why I opted to buy the Clarisonic Mia 2 (I really could have opted for the cheaper and basic one) was because of the protective travel case. Since this gadget is for personal grooming, I like that my Clarisonic Mia will be kept clean whenever I travel. 

I've used this for almost a week now and I'm loving it. Here are a few reasons why:

• The first time I used it, my skin felt cleaner, softer and tighter. 
• The brushing feels gentle on the skin and yet I feel as if I've had a mini-facial.
• It gets rid of blackheads on a daily basis!
• It seemed to have made my pores smaller, resulting to a less oily skin.
• It gives my skin a natural pinkish glow and even if I've worked all day, my face doesn't look tired. 

I'm very glad with my Clarisonic Mia 2 and I consider this the best present I've ever given to myself. 

If you want to know more about Clarisonic Mia and their products, please check out their website.

Beauty Stash: Organix Cherry Blossom Ginseng

The Husband considers me a Shampoo-and-Conditioner Collector because whenever I find shampoos on sale, especially ones I have not tried before, I buy them. The Husband calls our bathroom, much to my embarrassment, a museum for shampoos and conditioners. 

My love for shampoo and conditioner (S&C) stems from the fact that I love my hair. I can't afford to go to salons and have treatments (it's just so bloody expensive here!) but I have it regularly trimmed and styled by my trusted Korean hairstylist every two months. At home, I've somehow collected different brands of  (S&C) because I use about 3 kinds of S&C in a week--my hair is healthy that way. 

The things I do to have healthy hair: 

(1) I do deep conditioning treatments at home.

(2) During winter, I only wash my hair with water on days when I don't go out.*

(3) During summer, I wash my hair with baby shampoo on days when I don't go out.*

(4) I sometimes apply Argan Oil to give additional hair moisture.

(5) I almost never use styling products.

(6) I avoid colouring my hair since I turned 25 years old.  

*I use baby shampoo or wash my hair with just water as a way to rest my hair and scalp from harsh chemicals.

I've always wondered when I'd be able to try Organix. I've seen it in supermarkets and read good reviews about the brand but I find it a bit costly. When I dropped by the chemist a few weeks ago, I saw big bottles of Organix on sale AND it has a Cherry Blossom Ginseng variant. I couldn't resist so I bought it.

What I love about the Organix Cherry Blossom Ginseng S&C:

• It has all the ingredients I'm fond of: cherry blossom, ginseng and rice milk
• It smells wonderful
• It leaves my hair soft and hydrated ALL DAY!
• It doesn't contain lauryl/laureth sulfates and parabens.

I hope that by the time I finish these bottles, they'd go on sale again. I've come to love Organix and would love to try their other variants.

Beauty Stash: BB Creams (Facts, Experiences & Tips)

I learned about BB Creams when travelled in Seoul last year but I went home without buying one.  After a few months, I decided to give it a try after reading more about the wonders it does to the face. 

Before I give you a run down of BB Creams I've tried, Here's some things you need to learn about BB Creams:

• BB stands for Blemish Balm/Beauty Balm.
• BB Creams work as a primer, foundation, moisturiser and sunblock. All these benefits in just one tube.
• It was originally formulated in Germany for use of patients who have undergone laser procedures and surgery.
• In the 1980s, it was introduced in Japan and Korea.  
• In Korea, it is referred to as "the beauty secret of Korean actresses".

Why I got drawn to using BB Creams:

• It is time and cost effective. I used to put sunblock and foundation before putting powder on but now, with just the BB Cream, I get to save time and money by using just one product.
• Regular use of BB Cream has resulted to improved pores and skin texture.
• I have found a BB Cream that doesn't make my face too oily.
• When applied, it makes my pores less visible.
• I found a BB Cream that brings out the natural glow of my face, as in no need to wear blush.
• I found a BB Cream that doesn't cause me to breakout.
• It is cheaper to buy BB Creams compared to other foundations made by designer brands.

Here are some BB Creams I've tried:

(Important Note on my Face Profile: I have an oily skin especially on the Tzone areas. However, during Winter, my skin gets dry. I have acne scars. My  face is on the fair shade of brown. I have medium-sized pores.)

Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream (with SPF 42, Shade No.21). This was the first BB Cream I used (and still using, finishing the tube at the moment) and I'm glad that it was my first choice. It's one of the most famous BB Creams in Korea. It has medium to full coverage. Easy to apply on the face. It has a dewy finish and stays on for the whole day. If I have an event to go to at night, I just freshen up by putting powder on. When applied, my oily skin becomes manageable. Doesn't give me pimples.

Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream. Easy to apply. Has medium coverage. However, it gave me pimples after use so I stopped using it on my face. In order for my purchase to amount to something (sayang ang binayad ko eh) and since it has SPF,  I use this on the back of my hand and legs until the tube's empty.

MISA Cho Bo Yang BB Cream by Missha (a.k.a. Herbal Prescription BB Cream). I got a sample of this BB Cream from an online store. This is better than the Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream as this has a matte finish. The oiliness of my skin is more manageable. The next time I buy a BB Cream from Missha this would be it.

Power Perfection BB Cream (Natural Beige) by The Face Shop . I got this sample from The Face Shop in Townhall (Sydney). This is my favourite BB Cream as so far as this is the only BB Cream that lets my skin glow without the help of putting blush. The other BB Creams I've used seemed to just leave my face white. Whenever I use this, I noticed that my cheeks' natural glow comes out. Just be quick when applying this on your face as it sets in just a few seconds. Has a matte finish so oily skin is managed well. I'm buying a tube of this in time for Summer.

Good Afternoon Peach Green Tea BB Cream by Skin Food. Easy to apply and has a fruity smell. Matte finish but in two to three hours, my skin gets oily.  It doesn't cause me any breakouts though so I think this is still a good product for me. It just means I need to re-touch all the time to manage oiliness of my skin. I bought this tube recently and I think I should use this during cold season.

Some tips:

• Ask BB Cream samples before buying a tube.
• If samples are not available, google reviews on the net.
• Ask recommendations from professionals or friends that have the same skin as yours.
• If a brand doesn't work for you (i.e. results to breakouts, make your skin oily etc), stop using it. You may use them as sunblock for your hands or legs as long as they don't irritate your skin.
• Shelf life of BB Creams is up to 8-12 months. If it smells weird or dries out funny, throw it away to avoid skin infections.

My Stand on BB Creams: I'm subjective to trying out Korean brands at the moment because in my opinion, the Koreans have figured out a way to treat Asian skin. If a brand works well with my skin and their price is reasonable, that would be my gauge in buying.

Beauty Stash: Murad

I mostly write about home, food and travel but this year, I've made two regular features on the blog, Beauty Stash and Style Musings, because like most women I'm also fascinated with beauty and style, and both topics are essential in living a charmed life. In Beauty Stash, I share finds and tips on grooming and staying beautiful.  Style Musings was formerly known as Fashion Fridays but it has evolved into sharing my thoughts on style and design. I hope you will enjoy these two features as much as I enjoy writing about them.

I have mentioned in a previous entry that it was only when I moved to Sydney that I followed a skin care regimen. While I did start putting skin care products when I was a teenager, it's when I was 28 y/o that I stopped jumping from one product to another. It was all thanks to Murad. 

Growing up, I've battled with acne for most of my teenage years. It comes and goes. I even had a theory before that I seem to get an attack of acne every four years.  When I turned 25, the breakouts lessened but I was aware that I need to find products that will suit my skin needs, especially that I'm not getting any younger. So when I moved here, I seek professional help, had a few session of facials and went home with Murad products to maintain the health of my skin.

I exclusively used Murad (as in no other skin care product touched my skin) for three years. Their products are a bit expensive but I soldiered on because I wanted my skin to get better. It was all worth it as my skin did improve. I still have acne scars but  at least my skin texture has improved, it is less sensitive and it's not as oily as it used to be. 

Murad Products I've Used:

Refreshing Cleanser.  A gentle but thorough cleanser. It's perfect for my sensitive skin. I feel like I'm washing my face with milk. It also keeps the skin hydrated.

Skin Perfecting Lotion. One of the best moisturisers I've used so far. It's very light but my skin stays hydrated during the day. Perfect for daytime use and when indoors.

Perfecting Day Cream with SPF30. Similar to what I felt with the Skin Perfecting Lotion but only this has SPF. Moisturiser and sunblock in 1. After learning that it's a must to put on sunblock ALWAYS, I switched to this.

Perfecting Night Cream. Moisturiser for night time. 

Energizing Pomegranate Moisturizer SPF 15. One of the moisturisers from Murad that I used just because I got tired of the Skin Perfecting Lotion. Great for daytime as this has SPF15. I love wearing this during summer as it has cooling effects on the skin.  This is also best for combination skin as it keeps the Tzone and dry zone areas of your face balanced.

Essential C-Cleanser. The last cleanser I used from Murad. This didn't sit well with me as I noticed it gave me a pimple of two after I use it. Although it felt light and mild, I don't know why it didn't work well with my skin.

If you noticed from the products mentioned, when I acquired my Murad skin regimen, I basically did two steps: cleanse and moisturise. While it is common that toning is part of skin care, I was told by professionals that it is not necessary. And it worked for me. I'm grateful that their advice saved me time and money.

I have stopped using Murad for sometime now. While I can afford their products and a few drops is all it takes to get you skin cleaned and moisturised (a tube it last loooong time), I find it a bit expensive. Murad has given me better skin and now I'm able to use other products without being prone to pimples.

Based from my experience, I'd highly recommend Murad for those who have sensitive and problematic skin. Ask a professional about Murad before making the switch.

Beauty Stash: Some of My Favourite Scents & How I Choose Them

I love scents.  If I'm not practical, I'd probably have a collection at home but I moderate in buying them because I don't want scents to expire.  I only keep about a few bottles of perfume that I will use for a year and a half.  I've observed that perfume/cologne smell different and their colours change between a year and a half to two years after opening a bottle. 


I'm currently alternating five bottles of perfume at the moment.  Five being the manageable number for me as some days I get out the door forgetting to spray some on.  Other than perfumes or EDTs, I still wear cologne on some days.  


How I Choose My Scents
My favourite scents are on the sweet side as I discovered during my teenage years that sweet scents work well with my skin chemistry.  I sometimes choose scents with a hint of floral or fruity notes but a sweet note is always a requirement for me. 


Whenever on the lookout for new fragrance, I drop by the shops, smell a bottle or two then choose one to spray on my wrist. From then, I'd take note how it smells on me, how long the scent lingers on my skin, how strong it is, whether people can smell me from afar. I don't like it when people can smell me far afar. I'd like to be seen first than smelled first. I appreciate a heavy scent but one that gives out a charming, dainty vibe.


Currently On My Vanity Kit
The scent that tops my list is the Jean Paul Gaultier Classique. This bears a strong, heavy scent which combines fruity and floral scents of orange, peach plum and ylang ylang to name a few. Even if heavy, I sense a powdery scent which makes it feminine. Just two sprays and it will last me from morning 'til night. If I am asked what my signature scent is, this always comes to mind.

My next favourite is the Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue. For me this is the right balance of a  heavy and sweet scent which also works well with my skin chemistry.

The Nina by Nina Ricci is what I'd call a delicious scent. It's a combination of citrus, floral and fruity scents of lemon, bergamot, mandarin and moonflower plus the sweetness of red toffee apple.

FCUK was something I discovered when the Husband gave me this a few years back.  It changed the way I feel about floral scents (I used to stay away from it) as I learned that some floral scents can have a sweet note too.  This one has a good balance of both floral and sweet scent and again works well with my skin chemistry.

This is the most floral  and lightest scent I own at the moment.  Calvin Klein's Eternity Moment is light and refreshing, perfect for daytime.

I've come to realize that the scents I love are of the things I also love like toffee, apple, powder, orange, peach and mostly are food! At least it seems that even in perfumes, my choices are consistent (hahaha).


What are your favourite scents?


Related Post:
How To Choose Your Perfume

Beauty Stash: Something From Bath & Body Works

If you are a Filipino, you would know that family and friends would usually ask, "Ano ang gusto mong pasalubong?" whenever they are coming to visit or travelling from somewhere.  And whenever I am asked that question, I always think, "Hmmm, Ano bang meron doon na wala dito?" 


So when my aunt asked me what I want from America, my answer was, "Something from Bath & Body Works, please?"  And then I emailed her a list of my preferred items from the store.  And yes, you read it right, we don't have Bath & Body Works here in Australia.


Thanks to my aunt, I now have a few bottles of Bath & Body Works to last me awhile.


The Cherry Blossom Body Mist and Cherry Blossom Body Lotion from the Signature Collection.  The body mist a is refreshingly light floral scent of Cherry Blossoms and makes me think (and smell like) Spring. The body lotion moisturises the skin with the help of  Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E. 

I love sweet scent of Vanilla so I also asked for the Black Raspberry Vanilla Shower Gel and Black Raspberry Vanilla Body Lotion.  The shower gel has aloe vera and Vitamin E that leaves the skin smooth and pampered after every bath.  Like the Cherry Blossom Body Lotion, the Black Raspberry Vanilla Body Lotion has Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil and Vitamin Oil.  Other than keeping my skin hydrated, these two gives my skin a sweet fruity scent all day.

Having Bath & Body Works hand gels are always a treat. I sometimes forget to use hand sanitisers now that I live here in Australia, but having these around is helpful all the time.

Beauty Stash: My Top 5 Oils (and a Few Tips on Skin Care)

Happy 1st day of Winter!  

It's my 7th Winter in Australia and so far my body has adjusted to the very cold weather.  The first two years were the hardest but I got used to it eventually.  

When I moved here, I only care to regularly cleanse my face.  I don't like putting moisturisers on because I have oily skin and thought it might cause my face to break out.  However, my skin went very dry come cold season so I had to ask help from a facial care centre.  

Their best skin care tips were:

(1)  It is important to have a regular skin regimen.

(2)  One can find skin care products that won't cause the skin to get too oily or pimple break outs.

(3)  Learn the habit of putting moisturisers and sunblock on as early as possible to avoid skin dryness, premature wrinkles and sunspots.

(4)  Drink lots of water all the time to hydrate skin.

(5)  Moisturise everyday.  I used to have this idea that I should only put moisturiser on when I have dry skin or during cold season only but I was advised otherwise.

I have since followed their advice and found skin care products that make my skin better.  Now that I'm in my 30s, I've seen a few changes in my skin and thought it's time to be more vigilant in moisturising.  I have always used cream moisturisers but recently I discovered the wonders of using oil.  

Here are my top 5 favourite oils:

Rosehip Oil.  Considered the miracle oil that contains Omega 3, 6 and 9, essential fatty acids and antioxidants, it minimise the appearance of wrinkles and scars.  Regular use results to smooth skin and dramatically improved moisture levels, leaving skin radiant and glowing. I love it because it is lightweight and non-greasy.  I use it as a base before putting anything on my face.  Even if I put a layer of cream moisturiser/sunblock/foundation on my face after putting rosehip oil on, it doesn't get oily.  I've used it for two weeks and my acne scars seem to be less visible.  This is so far the best oil I've used on my face.  


Argan Oil/Moroccan Oil.  I used this as a skin moisturiser before I discovered Rosehip Oil.  This is an all-around oil that can be used for the hair, face and body (it can even be used for cooking!).  It is high in Vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant.  Now that I have Rosehip Oil to do wonders for my face, I use this mainly for my hair because it keeps it soft, non-frizzy and silky.  It also prevents my scalp from being itchy and dry.       


Tea Tea Oil.   I call this my "Healing Oil" as this is my go-to when I have pimple break outs and dandruff.  I love it's soothing feel.  Although the Husband teases that I smell like a tree whenever I put this (usually at bedtime), I don't care.  I wake up with my skin healed which is the most important thing.

Palmer's Moisturizing Body Oil.  After a bath, I apply this on my damp skin to lock in moisture.  It absorbs quickly and softens my skin preventing it from being dry.  This oil is light but I feel the richness of its formula on my skin that I sometimes get away with not putting lotion anymore.


Johnson's Bedtime Oil.  This is my usual body oil when I take baths in the evening.  I also use this as an alternative to applying lotion at night.  The smell is wonderfully relaxing and induces me to sleep.


Now that I've found oils that bring out the best in my skin and hair, I feel more confident surviving not just the winter season, but every season of every year.

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Beauty Stash: The Face Shop in Sydney

I first saw The Face Shop when I vacationed in Manila but it was only when I traveled to Seoul that I found interest to shop there because in Seoul, they give away a few freebies and samples.  When we passed by one of their branches near our hotel, they were giving free gifts if you purchase a certain amount.  I decided to try their lipstick and blush and they turned out to be good products for me.  In return, they gave me a bottle of Rice Water Bright Make-up Remover and lots of sample sachets from their moisturizing line.

It was only in Sydney that I got to use the Rice Water Bright Make-up Remover they gave me and I love it!  My skin loves it too.  Other than removing make-up, it moisturizes my skin, keeps it soft and doesn't cause me any break-outs.  I don't even have to wash and moisturize my face anymore after I've used it at night. 

I believe there is a branch of The Face Shop somewhere in Sydney but since I work in the city, I couldn't be bothered looking for it.  Thank goodness for online shopping, I get to buy my Korean make-up and cleansers online.

A few weeks back, as I was running late to meet up with the Husband in the city, he called me and said, "Guess what?  They've opened a branch of The Face Shop in Townhall".  What joy!  And what a relief to have a branch so accessible to one of the train stations we frequent.

The endorsers of The Face Shop:
Kim Hyung Joong (from the KDrama Boys Over Flowers and Playful Kiss)
Park Min Young (from the KDrama City Hunter)

Now that I have access to The Face Shop, I can try out their other products which I find reasonably cheaper than other brands. 

Customers are welcome to bring home posters of Kim Hyung Joong so I got a few to give to my mum and whoever may like him.  See how massive the poster is (below)...spell HUGE hehe.

Speaking of trying something new from their store, I bought the Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam last night.  I figured since I'm already using the make-up remover, why not try the cleansing foam too.  I love it as well.  I easily felt that my skin is simultaneously being cleansed and moisturized while I use it.  It doesn't make my skin oily too.

If you would like to visit The Face Shop, it is located at The Galleries Victoria (500 George Street, Sydney).