Haul: Collective - Origins, MAC, Clinique, Dior, Prejume

This entry is a collective haul post on the stuff that I got some time back. So, this is really a guide for me to keep track of the things that I buy....

First up is Origins - Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins, Plantidote Mega-Mushroom Face Serum. My friend knows that I chomp through this serum like a mean grinding machine. And so, whenever there is an offer on this serum, she would be the first to sms me. I got 2 x 30ml at SGD25.00 each!

Next up is the MAC 217 brush and this is my second 217. This brush is very soft and perfect for blending out the eyeshadows! SGD33.00 available at all MAC Counters across Singapore.

Next, the Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes and Lips (SGD39.00). My sampler bottle ran out and I've decided to purchase the full sized bottle since this worked quite well to remove my eye makeup.

Next up, is the Dior - Diorskin Nude Natural Glow Fresh Powder Makeup (SGD70.00). I was looking for a loose powder and the BA recommend this loose powder to me since I'm using the Dior Skin Nude Foundation. The BA assured that it wouldn't be heavy since I recalled that one of the BA at Takashimaya told me that this is actually mineral powder foundation. However, I really think that using this powder on top of the Diorskin Nude foundation is a little overkill for me. In addition, the actual size is really puny and paltry, compared to other Dior Loose Powder that are bigger in size with about the same price.

Lastly, Prejume hair wax that my hairstylist brought back from Hong Kong for me (SGD29.00). I totally like this hair wax. It has a rice paste texture , styles but not oily at all!!

Haul: Duty-Free and Fancl

These items were bought way back in early August but they were stashed in a corner of my room and I had almost forgotten about them until I ran out of my Clinique's Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm, and I have to open a new bottle of makeup remover.

I've decided to switch to Shu Uemura after reading the raves and recommendations from skincare gurus such as 牛爾... I ended up buying additional items on top of the Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil.

For the uninitiated, please note that compared to Duty Free, a lot of items are actually cheaper when bought during the Metro 20% sales. Not to forget the additional Metro dollars that can be converted to shopper cheques.

However, due to kindness of my friends, I get very good prices from Duty Free. Of course, I don't usually like to trouble them unless I need to get really expensive stuff, or things that are not available at regular retail counters, such as traveler exclusives.

Being the fickle me, I decided to get 2 types in smaller bottles to try out, and to see whether they live up to the hype and raves.

The purplish version for Whitening purposes:

The green version with supposedly anti-aging properties.

The next item is what got me so excited, it's the Dior Carnage Collection. It's a palette of 8 eye shadows and is a Krisflyer traveler's exclusive. So it's only available on SQ flights and Duty Free. For swatches and more pictures, please visit Ling's blog. She was the one who sparked my lemming for this.

The palette in it's pristine plastic packaging

 

Next up is my Fancl haul that I got along with my sister's birthday present.

The Summer 2010 Eyeshadow Palette.

I got 2 of the above. 1 for my sister, the other is meant as Christmas present for a good friend.

Fancl HTC Collagen in Powder form

This is meant for myself. I believe this is a new product. I've tried the drink and pills but not the powder form. Will try out and review after this.

Review / Skincare: Hada Labo Skincare

* Picture source - Fr3b.com and  Hada Labo

"Hada Labo stands for the lifestyle philosophy of "PERFECT x SIMPLE" a skincare range that brings beauty back to the basics - perfect, simple and confident.

To fulfill the commitment of healthy and perfect skin, Hada Labo emphasizes on simplicity in its skin care process, removing all the unnecessary additives, colorant, fragrance and mineral oil that will burden the skin. Only the finest, purest and highly effective ingredients that are beneficial to the skin are retained to ensure maximum effectiveness. Only the best for your skin and nothing else.

Now, you can truly enjoy a perfect and simple lifestyle, confidently...."

The good people over at Fr3b.com invited me to sample and review their client's, Hada Labo's best selling products the other day. Hada Labo has been a much raved product in Japan and I've been looking forward to it's launch in Singapore. Under the condition that I'll review based on my actual experiences, no matter good or bad, I decided to take up the challenge!!

The products I got were their supposedly best sellers, the Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Lotion and Face Wash. I've been using the products for the past 5 days and it's time to do a review on it.


The main selling point of the products is the Hyaluronic Acid ingredient. This ingredient is known for it's hydrating properties and used in many skincare products, such as the Laneige Perfect Renew Skin Refiner, which uses this ingredient as it's selling point too.

Product Name: Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Face Wash
Size: 100g
Price: Not Available
Available At: Exclusively Watsons
Picture Source: Hada Labo















Product Description from Manufacturer:

• Hydrates as it cleanses. Helps restore and perserve skin's natural moisture, leaving it silky smooth.
• Gently cleanses leaving skin comfortably hydrated and refreshed.
• Skin pH balanced. Low irritation.
• Free of fragrances, mineral oil, alcohol and colorant.

Packaging:
Minimal fuss-free squeeze white tube packaging. Very Hygienic.


Texture:
Whitish cream texture when it's fresh out of the tube. Suds to a low foam white creaming texture after mixing with water.

Price:
Not sure of the price but given that it's a drugstore product, I would expect it to be less than S$30.00. But at 100ml, I realized my Clinique Cleanser is actually cheaper based on per ml.

Road Test:
Long-time friends would notice that I don't usually go for drugstore cleansers. Not that I'm a snob but I had some traumatic experiences with drugstore cleansers in my adolescent years that left a pretty deep mark on me.

So, this time round, I was really apprehensive in using this product. Not to mention that the texture of the foam kind of remind me of the same product that scarred me years ago. But well, I still went for it. For the adventurous spirit in me.

Not trying to be a nag here but ALWAYS mix your cleansers with water well between your palms first before putting them mixture on your face, unless of course, it's a cream cleanser meant for sensitive skins. Never ever put foaming cleansers directly on your face before mixing it up well.

Anyway, I was really surprised that it did it's job pretty well, cleanse without stripping all moisture from my skin. Come to think of it, it performed as well as my usual Clinique Cleansing Liquid.

But those who knows me will know, I don't usually have high expectations of a cleanser. All is ask is, cleanse without drying. I do not expect it to be some omnipotent product that will do wonders.

Verdict:
Truth to be told, I'm pretty impressed given that it matched my HG. Would I continue to buy after I run out of my current sample, probably not. Why? Because I'm a person who loves fragrances despite her sensitive skin condition. Haha, yes! I find the product a little boring without the fragrances that I'm so used to. And the texture kept reminding me of the the scars I bore from my adolescent years, which would probably take forever to eradicate.

This is a fuss-free product that's friendly on the wallet. For those who are looking for something that's good for your skin and wallet, you might want to try it out. But do note that not everyone takes well with Hyaluronic Acid. For Singaporeans, you can click to Fr3b.com to have a sample sent to you.

Other Product Pics:

Fresh out from the tube:

After mixing with water.

Next up is the second product....

Product Name: Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Face Lotion
Size: 170ml
Price: Not Available
Available At: Exclusively Watsons
Picture Source: Hada Labo















Product Description from Manufacturer:

• Instantly hydrates skin and helps preserve its optimum moisture balance.
• Replenishes and locks-in moisture for complete hydration. Skin feels significantly soft and supple.
• Helps improve dry and dehydrated skin, leaving it silky smooth.
• Skin pH balanced. Low irritation.
• Free of fragrances, mineral oil, alcohol and colorant.

Packaging:
Minimal plastic bottle. Top cap has a hole for dispensing. Given the price, I don't expect a lot with the packaging. However, it would be good if it is a pump bottle as the texture is rather runny, pour bottle is a little messy.


Texture:
I was expecting something that is more of a runny gel like texture. But I was surprise that it was actually very runny, very similar to the texture of normal toner.

Price:
Not sure of the price but given that it's a drugstore product, I would expect it to be less than S$30.00.

Road Test:
Given the product description, I was expecting a texture that is very similar to that of Laneige's Perfect Renew Skin Refiner. But I was quite surprised that the texture is more of normal toner. It was very spreadable and the feeling is very refreshing.

A few seconds later, I can feel this layer of moisture enveloping my whole face and dried very fast. There wasn't any sticky feeling that I was expecting. I also realize that I didn't need as much moisturizer as I used to need.

So far, I wouldn't say I've seen marked improvements but I do notice that my makeup applies better, especially around the sides of my nose, whereby there are gaping pores. And my makeup actually stays better throughout the day, probably because of the oil-free formula. But I cant be sure as I switched sunscreen this week to Dior, so the makeup might be a due to Dior's sunscreen.

Verdict:
Actually, I'm quite won over by this product, except for the no fragrance. I wouldn't say it performed better than my HG but I would say it's on par. Of course, the price is very much more competitive than my HG.

Would I buy this product after the sample run out? Frankly speaking, I don't know. It's only been 7 days since I started using this product and although first impressions are good, it takes more than 7 days for me to commit to a product / brand.

I guess I would want to explore this product further but I wouldn't raise it to HG status just yet.

For Singaporeans, you can click to Fr3b.com to have a sample sent to you.

Other Product Pics:

Haul: Random buys in June

Been away.. Was kind of depressed over the week as I lost my brand new laptop! Well, technically, I didn't lose it but rather, a cab driver took off with it in the boot. I was so shocked by what happened that I didn't get the license plate. It was a brand new laptop just out from the shop.

I was more angry with myself than with the cab driver. First, I shouldn't have put it in the car boot. There was enough space in the back seat for it. And I should have asked for the receipt. But the cab driver was so nice that I was caught off-guard. I shouldn't have been so trusting, remember, low crime doesn't mean NO crime.

Anyway, I lodge reports with the police, LTA and the cab company. Although chances of getting it back is slim, but I still want to put it in record that there is an errant cab driver on the prowl.

This entry is for the random buys that I did for the month of June. June is not only my birthday month but also the month of the Great Singapore Sale (GSS).

Not a lot of stuff as I'm trying to curb my spending. Oh well, living in Singapore meant that there are sales going almost all year round. There's always next time.

First up is MAC 217 brush. It's a my second MAC brush. This is a much raved eye makeup brush and I was totally won over. It's so soft and blends my eyeshadows very well. The best part is that I paid for it with my Isetan vouchers that I redeemed with my Isetan points. So, this brush came almost as free!

Next is the Lunasol 2010 Summer Collection, Nature Summer Blue EX01 Eyeshadow Quad (S$77.00). I've been lemming this quad ever since Rouge Deluxe and Fuzkittie featured it. So I decided to get it when it launched in Singapore on 18th June 2010.

Friends of mine know that I'm a blue eyeshadow lover. A lot of people are scared of blue eyeshadows but they are one of the colors that actually works for me. And Japanese seems do well in this arena.

I'm totally in love with the deep blue!!

Ok, what else???..... Oh yes, I purchased a Fancl sunscreen. Due to my sun-phobic nature, I'm very into sunscreens. I currently own.. hmmm.. about 6 bottles of sunscreens. All of different brands.

My ma thinks I'm totally insane. She's an advocate of sunscreens since I was young but I think I've outshone her. Wonder how many sunscreens my daughter will own next time. Anyway, picked this up because I had quite a good experience with it previously. The only thing I don't like about Fancl products is that they expire way much faster than I can use it up. 75days after I've opened the bottle, I'll have to toss it.

I also stocked up on some essentials during the GSS period.

MAC makeup sponges and brush cleaner. Truth to be told, I'm not exactly a connoisseur when it comes to makeup sponges. So far, MAC makeup sponges have worked well for me and so, I've been hooked on it ever since.

The MAC brush cleaner was a purchase I decided after reading somewhere that normal shampoo do not do a good job when it comes to disinfecting. And so, I bought this so that I can give my brushes a good clean. I'm a germ & dust-phobic when it comes to the things that I put on my face. To the point that I rather buy the wrong foundation shade home, then to have the BA test it on my face. I once saw this lady who took the tester lipstick and applied straight on her lips. Yew, I was totally turned off and horrified by what I saw.

Next up is the Clinique's Liquid Facil Soap (Mild) - S$35.00. Another staple of mine that I've grown to love. This product does a good job of cleaning without stripping moisture off my face.

Lastly, is the Laneige Perfect Renew Skin Refiner (S$53.00). Another staple of mine. I had a bad reaction when I first used it but now, it's one of my holy grail. I'm already in my Nth bottle!!

Haul: Drugstore Purchases

The next few entries would be belated posts as I've been out of action for sometime. This haul was done in mid-june, in the midst of preparing for my giveaway.

I get double points from Watsons due to my birthday month and so, I decided to stock up on some items, while getting stuff for my giveaway.



First up is the canmake eyeshadow quad (S$19.50)... For some reasons, after my first Canmake Cream Blush, I was starting to grow fond of this brand. Not to mention that it was on 20% discount.

This palette has 4 shades in total. One highlighter shade, two lavender hues and a dark color for accent. I love Japanese eyeshadow palettes, they make eyeshadow application so idiot proof that even a klutz like me can easily do it.

The photo does not give full justice to the colors. The shimmers are really pretty.

Next up are the Cleansing Express Makeup Remover Lotions Samples (S$3.95 each). The product has been on shelves for sometime but I wasn't really keen on investing the full size. The description of the product gave me the impression that it is fuss-free and can even be used on the eye area. And so, I decided to get the samples to try out before investing on the full size. There are several types to choose from and I chose the Moist and Anti-aging ones.

Next is Pure Beauty's Bon Voyage Essential Serum (S$3.95). As to why I bought it? I was enticed by the quirky packaging, which reminds me of Cargo Foundations. And yes, that was what pushed me to buy the product. Plus, as it was meant for traveling, it did not contain a lot of product. This meant a much lower price and I get to try a new product without investing a lot of money into it.

Lastly are my essentials. Neutrogena Sunblock for my body and Asience Shampoo and Conditioner set. Cant remember the prices but I know they are cheaper as they were also on discount. And yes, I'm a sun-phobic. Just like how some westerners cannot comprehend why majority of asians loves being fair, I can't understand why they like to worship the sun (usually without protection) so much.

UVA and UVB rays causes SKIN CANCER!!! I once saw a lady whose arms reflected the ravages of long-term sun exposure. It totally freaked me out and I promised myself to never leave home without sun-block.

Of course, sometimes when I'm running late or become lazy, I would skip the body sun protection. Nevertheless, it's good Vitamin D to catch some morning sun. But as soon as it's lunch-time, I would whip out sun block before I battle the afternoon sun and lunch-time crowds.

Review / Skincare: Clinique - Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm

Item Name: Clinique - Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm
Size: 125 ml
Price: S$52.00
Available At: Metro Paragon and all good dept stores
Picture Source: klutzbeauty.blogspot.com




Product Description from Manufacturer:

Lightweight makeup remover quickly dissolves tenacious eye and face makeups, sunscreens. Transforms from a solid balm into a silky oil upon application. Cleans thoroughly, rinses off completely. Non-greasy. Non-drying. Ophthalmologist Tested. For all skin types.

Why I bought it:
I had to get a makeup removal as the Biore cleansing oil was causing cystic pimples on my face. I had originally wanted to purchase the version that is meant for eyes and lips. I had a sample of it and I must say, it worked really well even for the whole face. The BA was telling me that I can use the balm on my eyes as well, so being the adventurous person, I decided to get the balm version instead.

Packaging:
A screw cap plastic tub that is typical to Clinique's packaging. What I hate about it is that I have to either dip my fingers into the product or use a spatula. Very troublesome I would say.


Texture:
As the name suggests, the texture is white thick balm.

Price:
Price is a little pricey, given the amount of product.

Road Test:
The texture felt more crumbly rather than balmy when the product first came out of the box. It started to melt into a more spreadable texture the moment I start to rub on my face. It did a nice job of melting away makeup and emulsify into a creamy texture.

My face was left with no makeup after washing off but as usual, I would top up the cleansing with a foaming cleanser just to be sure I got rid of all traces of residue on my face.

Verdict:
The product did what it was supposed to do, remove makeup. There's no WOW factor here that I would rank it as an item that I can do without. Plus, it's very hard to use this for removal of eye makeup, contrary to what the BA told me. Which was the reason why I bought this balm version instead of the one for Eye and lips.

Other Product Pics:

The product inside the tub. 

The product when I initially dug out from the tub.

The product doing it's work, melting away makeup.

Yeah, the finished surface. Clean and free of makeup residue.

Random Drugstore Hauls

Some random drugstore buys over the past week...

CanMake Cream Cheek Blush (S$17.90). Ever since my ma used her lipstick as blush on me eons ago, I've been intrigued by cream blushes. However, due to my skin sensitivity, I don't usually use blush since I already have this "natural" reddish tone on my cheeks.

Furthermore, I already have a nice Kose blush that my sister bought me as Christmas present last year.

But being in need of retail therapy, I bought this blush anyway. I got the 01 shade which is a very sheer shimmery pink with a faint peachy undertone since I have to be mindful not to overdo on my blush.

Next is Nivea Facial Cleansing Wipes (S$9.50). I got this out of desperation. We were having our family portrait taken and the ladies who did our makeup went over the top on eyeshadows and eye liners. I had this huge patch of black eyeliner that I almost scared my own self in the mirror. Not to mention that the makeup that they used was causing an itch on the skin.

The cream cleanser that I brought along wasn't performing well and we had to go for a dinner after that. So, I had to run to the nearest Watson's and purchase this fuss-free makeup remover.

A sigh of relief swept through us when we finally can get the gaudy and bad quality makeup off our delicate faces.

The Ingredients...

Lastly, Tea Tree Blemish Stick (S$10.95). The SebaMed pimple gel that I bought wasn't what I would exactly term as "working". So I was thinking maybe this would help (hopefully).

Ingredients....

GWP + Updates

It's been awhile since my last update. During this time, I started on a new job and those who are on my facebook probably would have known that it isn't really a walk in the park. I'm still trying to get settled down into the new environment.

So amidst all the chaos, I just wasn't able to find the energy to do reviews or post any photos.

Anyway, let's talk about happy things.. Got a few lovelies along the way but didn't get the chance to unwrap them until today. And yes, I promised myself that I wont spend anymore money on skincare. And so I rationalize that if I buy makeup and magazines that have GWP, it won't really count as spending money. Alright, it's kind of a cheat but I just cant resist.

There's alot to post and after a failed attemtp to squeeze everything into 1 post, I will post up the Magazines GWP first while the next one will focus on what I bought. >>>
Recently, there was an onslaught of magazines with great GWP. So being a passionate shopper, thanks to Ah Ling and Beaute-Runway for the great information, I was able to grab these hotcakes in time.

Amica x Nuxe

For the month of April 2010, Amica was giving away a full sized Nuxe Lotion Tonique Aux 3 Roses Toning Lotion (200ml) for every purchase of the magazine. This is definitely a great bargain!!! The Toner alone retails at SGD30++. I was so excited that I bought 3 sets. One for moi, one for my cousin and one, my cupboard?

Singapore Tatler x Loccitane Olive Gift Set

For the month of April 2010, you get a Loccitane Olive Gift Set for every purchase of the Singapore Tatler. The gift set contains a 50ml Organic Olive Radiance Cleansing Foam, a 15ml Luminous Body Cream and a 75g Oliver Bar Soap. A great value given that the Singapore Tatler retails at SGD8.00 while the cleaning foam alone retails at SGD30++ for 100ml. Definitely great travel buddies to have. Not to mention the pretty box that I would like to use to store my stuff.