Haul: Guerlain makeup at Takashimaya Square

Hauling seems to be a must nowadays for me.... especially since they are great deals not to be missed. Yes, i hauled some eye candy today......

Enjoyed....

 The Guerlain loot for today.

 2 eyeshadow palettes.

Ombre Eclat 4 Couleurs in 410 (Limited edition) from the Les Ors Holiday Collection 2010.

 Guerlain's signature Bee mortif.

A hefty piece of gold.

Ombre Eclat 4 Couleurs in 490 (Permanent Range).

My very first turquoise theme eyeshadow palette.

The usual light gold brick.

 Terracotta Lip Gloss from the Terra Inca Collection for Summer 2011.

08 Mambo- which is a bright fiery orange. 

 Love the design of the lip gloss handle.

 Guerlain Perfect White Base Perfection UV Intense SPF 30/PA+++ in Pearl Lily- looking forward to use it as it has dual function (both as a makeup base as well as sun screen).

The loot once again.

The sale is still on till end of this month.... go check it out if you are interested.... Happy Hauling : )

Haul: Clinique, Dr Murad and SK-II at Metro Paragon

Haul, haul, haul....

There are just times that i just want to haul and nothing more nothing less.......

Here we go......

The hauling done (SK-II is something that i did not budget for).

My essential and trusty buddies.

The GWP (2 liquid cleansers and 2 tubes of Super City Block SPF 40-not shown coz they are stashed deep in my drawer).

Dr Murad Essential-C cleaner - suppose to wash away environmental pollutants on the skin.

Was available at a promotional price of S$22.oo (usual Price: S$70.00)

The indulgence that was totally unprepared for.

Love to try it when i have the time.

Hauling?

My favourite kind of activity. : )

What's yours?

Review: ZA True White Day Protector

While i was continuing my quest for the ideal sunscreen or sunblock, i happened to stumble upon the ZA True White Day Protector when i was browsing through the racks in Watsons (drugstore).

Most of my friends thought that i am a skincare snob as i don't really purchase my skincare products from drugstores, that i would say is not entirely true and in some sense is a unfair statement about me.

It just happens that what suits me at times are products that were bought over departmental store counters and trust me, departmental stores in Singapore do have more sales than the local drugstores, plus after factoring all the discounts etc....what i paid for a certain product in the departmental store is very near what i would have paid for another similar product in the same category from a drugstore (of course, this is for some products only).

Now, what i look for in a product:

1. What i need- the product's function

2. List of ingredients- i try to select those that contains more plant-based ingredients (well, to look out for what i maybe allergic to).

3. Price of the product- that's for sure.

3. Reputation of the brand and Country of Origin- it matters to me especially since beauty industry is such a lucrative business, you never know what you are going to find in the jar of face cream that you are using (though a product made in Frxxxe might not necessarily mean it is way superior than another made in Chxxa, but its a peace of mind that i am paying extra for).

See? I am not entirely a skincare snob : )

Coming back to the Day Protector, since Watsons is having its 20% sale (on selected brands), i took this chance to try it, its super attractive to me as after discount it is only about S$10 for 35g. The Day Protector was made in Taiwan (which is my first skincare product made in Taiwan) but considering that ZA is under Japanese cosmetic giant Shiseido, i am quite alright with it.

ZA True White Day Protector SPF 26 PA++ UVA/UVB.

The toothpaste-like packaging of the sunscreen.

A close look at the dispenser.

In terms of packaging, i think the toothpaste-like with a narrow end dispenser is quite common for sunscreens in general, so i don't really have anything to dislike it (i mean its a personal preference), its quite sleek and it doesn't take up much space anywhere in my bag or my drawer. With the narrow end dispenser, its a breeze dispensing the appropriate amount each time i reach out for it every morning, the control to dispense is there for sure.

The lotion-like consistency of the Day Protector.

When i was using the Day Protector, i do not find any weird chemical smell that puts off people, nor do i detect a strong alcohol scent, so far so good. The consistency of the day protector resembles that of a lotion with thin to medium thickness which enables smooth and hassle free application of the product, it absorbs fairly well too. One thing to note is that, i do find the "bit by bit" application method doesn't work well for me here, i end up with white streaks or uneven whitish tones on my face. However, i do find that the "spread over palms and apply like moisturiser" method works well on me, ensuring a even application.

After application, my face is fairer temporarily which is mainly due to the whitening effect of the Day Protector (my face retains its original tone after washing off at the end of the day), there is no signs of stickiness or oiliness and there is a subtle pearly sheen (it might come in handy for people who wanted that extra something or a glow with/without makeup). I would think it suits gals with fairer skin better, largely because of the whitish tone that it leaves.

Although, the sunscreen has moisturising properties (as stated in the description below), i do feel that there is a need to do proper moisturising on my part as well (but a lighter version than usual).

After the application.

Product description (functions of the product).

Directions on the usage of the product.

I have been using the Day Protector for approximately 2 weeks, so far so good i am quite happy with it, there is no breakouts, no clogging of pores, even though i do not see any visible whitening effect (reduction of the appearance of visible melanin buildup) and the temporarily whitening effect is largely just comestic.

Will i buy another tube after this tube is gone?

If i am looking for something that will satisfy my basic needs of sunscreen (both UVA and UVB), with perks of it being a moisturiser and giving my face a subtle glow, and most importantly easy on the pocket, then perhaps yes.

On the otherhand, if i am seeking something that is more high-level fuction capabilities such as clinical proven skin whitening, higher protection and anti-aging, then my quest has not ended just as yet.

Ultimately, it boils down to each individual's needs.

Priced at S$13.50 for 35g or 1.2oz, available at major drugstores (Watsons). There is a ongoing 20% discount on selected brands till 9th February 2011.

List of Ingredients:

Review: RMK Face Protector SPF 31

I was never a sunscreen or sunblock kind of gal during my teenage years even though my CCAs in schools are the ones that has the most sun exposure and i do assure you the word "fair" never had its place in my dictionary. Especially after all that Banana Boat sunscreen and Coppertone which i detest till this today (because of the smell and the whitish layer over your skin after application).

As the years went on and of course after knowing that exposure to excess sunlight is the main culprit for premature aging of the skin and the reason for skin cancer, i started to take sunscreen seriously (no gal, no gal would like to have freckles on her face unless she is Jodie Foster).

For the longest time, i have been using Clarins UV Plus Protective Day Screen SPF 40 PA +++ (which protects against UVA and UVB, as well as external environment pollution), it has been working well for me, so far so good, even though i have oily combination skin type, the day screen work well for me. My only gripe would be its hefty price - S$75.00 for 30ml, which translate to a bottle every 3 months or so.... not friendly on my pocket i would say.

And so, begins my quest for the more pocket friendly substitute.....

I present RMK Face Protector SPF 31 (which i have gotten during the last Isetan Anniversary sale)......

The simple white packaging.

In terms of packaging, there isn't really anything to comment, except that it is a simplistic thin white board kind of packaging. The face protector comes in the form of a silver tube (a little like toothpaste, except that the opening of the tube is narrow which helps to dispense the appropriate amount required one application and to retain the integrity of the product too, i suppose), and this kind of packaging is commonly seen for a lot of sunscreens or sunblocks in the market.

There is a obvious smell of alcohol when i got the product out of the tube but it fades off minutes after the application. I do admit i am rather uncomfortable with that as i do not like to have alcohol content in my skincare products (especially in this case, alcohol is the second ingredient listed which would indicate that there is a significant percentage of alcohol in the face protector).

Applicationwise, as the face protector is water-based the consistency of the face protector is thin and spreads easily across the surface of the skin and is easily absorbed into the skin as well, plus there is a tinge of cooling sensation when the product is applied (i would say its due to the alcohol). After the product is absorbed, my skin doesn't feel like i have applied sunscreen to it and its transparent (this is the aspect that i like about the product).

The Paint-tube like dispenser.

The milky white texture of the face protector.

The texture of the face protector after spreading it out.

After application of the face protector.

Function-wise, i find that the face protector might offer insufficient protection if you are planning for outdoor activities as it is only SPF 31 (a little unclear if the product is able to offer protection for UVA or/and UVB). On the other hand, if you are the indoor staying kind of gal, SPF 31 PA+ should offer sufficient protection.

Personally, i like my sunscreen to be able to protect me from both UVA and UVB and the high alcohol content in the ingredients of the face protector made me think twice about getting a second tube of the product. I have been using it for nearly a month and i would say i am about a third through the tube. Although i am not fond of the high alcohol content in the product, so far i have not suffered any adverse effects from the product.

This product contains Methicone and mineral oil, so take note if methicone breaks you out, you might want to avoid this product.

Currently, i am still siting on the fence on this one...... i like the texture and how it applies but i am not confident of the protection it can offer and yes, alcohol as one of its main ingredients, plus even though the price is more pocket friendly than Clarins's sunscreen, it remains in the mid to high price range for a sunblock or sunscreen.

I would say, test it for yourself..... i am most likely to revert back to my trusty Clarins after i have finished this tube and continue the journey on my search for the HG sunscreen.

Priced at S$46.00 for 35g or 1.22oz (available at Takashimaya Shopping Centre and Isetan Shopping Centre).

Main Ingredients:Water (aqua), Alcohol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Zinc oxide, Isocetyl Myristate, Cyclomethicone, Glycerin, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Mineral Oil(Paraffinum Liquidum), Polysorbates 85, Methicone, Xanthan Gum, Butylene Glycol, Octyltrimethoxysilane coated titanium dioxide, Disodium Edta, Bht, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Peg-60 hydrogenated castor oil, Aloe Barbadensis leaf extract.

Elizabeth Arden Warehouse Sale Haul

This is the first time i have hauled something from Elizabeth Arden, especially since it wasn't part of my hauling plan at all. When it comes to Elizabeth Arden, i always have this image deeply embedded in my mind - EA's products are meant for mature ladies. It could be largely due to my mom's frequently visit to the EA counter at OG... childhood memories.

However, having read promising reviews for EA's products such as the Eight hour cream and the White Glove series, thanks to Christy from Beaute Runway, i couldn't help but decided to drop by the sale venue since i am already at Suntec with my siblings for the IT fair.

There are quite a few perfume cofferts on sales, such as the Mediterranean Eau de Parfum sets (2 sets available- one with body lotion and the other with both the body wash and lotion), 5th Avenue set (with body lotion) and the Red Door Eau de Parfum set (with body lotion). I do not recall seeing any other fragrances on sale under the EA name, such as celebrities inspired fragrances (eg. Curious Britney Spears and Mariah Carey's) or any other. Nevertheless, they were a steal at almost 50% off the usual retail price for the sets sold in departmental stores.

Skincare-wise, there's only one Ceramide Gold Capsules Set and one White Glove Skin Brightening set and some other items from the White Glove range on sale. I wasn't putting too much hope in spotting the Eight Hour cream series or any of their Bestselling series there as they are doing well at the counters in departmental stores.

As for Makeup items, there are some Flawless Finish Mousse makeup, pressed powder, eye colors, lip glosses, lipsticks, cream blushers, bronzing powder and a makeup value set on sale, the colors are rather limited, so i skipped that totally.

A point to note, the manufacturing dates of most of the items on sale are in 2008 and some 2009. I would suggest using the products immediately or not within this year if you are really bent on trying some of the items.

I went home and did some research on their official website and turns out i was quite wrong on the idea that EA is for mature women only, the skincare line is rather diversified.

Elizabeth Arden's extensive skincare line includes:

1.PREVAGE- A collaboration of EA with a dermatological research company, Allergan for high performance anti-aging products which address the impact of oxidation, the main culprit of signs of skin aging. This is the line that they are promoting and advertising agressively.

2.Ceramide- A line that targets at plumping, firming , strengthening, retexturising and maintaining the skin's moisture.

3. Eight Hour Cream- A basic skincare range that aims to resolve dryness of skin and minor skin irritation.

4. INTERVENE- A pre-antiaging line that targets at women in their late 20s or early 30s who are being to see the signs of aging, such as dullness and dryness. Sounds more of a preventive anti-aging line to me.

5. Visible Difference- A rich formula that aims to protect skin with retaining and preventing moisture loss plus reducing of fine lines. I gather this is in general for gals with dry skin.

6. Millenium Skincare- An intensely moisturising line to revitalise skin for a firmer and more radiant look.

7. Perpetual Moisture 24- A hydration line that helps prevent moisture loss by infiltrating moisture deep beyond the skin's surface.

8. White Glove- A whitening range that aims to illuminate the skin from within, supposed to defend the skin from its enviromental pollution, control melanin production, lift and smoothen skin. I don't see this range listed anywhere on EA's homepage, this could very well be an Asian exclusive, i'm not too sure about it.

My haul of the day: The White Glove Whitening set and Eye cream

Total Damage: S$85.00

On sale at S$60 (set includes a full size UV Defense Lotion SPF 45, Deluxe travel size Returizing Lotion, Purifying Cleanser, and Balancing Toner)

Eye cream at S$25 (retail price: S$80 plus, i was told by the SA and yes its true)


Texture of the Eye cream seems slightly heavy but is actually light upon application.

Review of Eye cream 2 weeks later:

I have tried on the Eye cream for 2 weeks every day and night, i would say it sits comfortably on my eye area. A good deal if you ask me, as i would never forked out S$80 plus to "try" something that i am quite resistance against initially. I have not tried out the whitening set yet, will do so soon.

I am not promoting consumerism here, but if you can try something and discovering something that 1 day might become your HG stash at a fraction of the retail price, I see absolutely no wrong but all the rights here.

Hope my 2 cents worth are useful here.