Sample Room Experience + First Haul for 2013

     Happy weekend guys! We're fortunate that beauty comes in boxes now. I mean we can try beauty, skin care, wellness products and everything in between with these beauty subscription boxes. I presume that you all know these beauty boxes and had subscribe from them depending on your preferences. It boom last year around August if I'm not mistaken but I'm contemplating which box to get. The price ranges from 400-500 php for a month of subscription,  you'll get different variety of beauty and skin care items, some are samples while others are full-sized ones. 

     I've joined the club now! Finally got my first beauty product sample from Sample Room. I will not get into full details of SR since beauty bloggers already discussed everything on their blogs. I will just share my experience and how considerate they were because my first transaction from them was cancelled and it's my fault. I'm lucky that they'll going to return the first 70 points that I used and wasn't able to pay the shipping on time and totally forgot my order. I used my remaining points to purchase this...

My order comes in this eco friendly paper bag, sealed with SR sticker :)

     This is what I ordered from the remaining points that I have. I have read all the reviews from SR that's why I'm convinced that Gluta-C is effective in terms of lighten dark marks and spots. I'm not sure if I'll use this on my underarm, I'm planning to use a little of this on my freckles and I hope this will work there too.

Gluta-C Skin Whitening Gel- FULL SIZE 20ml
Only 25 points for this one, not bad eh?

     So now to my haul, basically these are products that I already use everyday. Nothing new except the Nichido Mineral Concealer that I will use as an eyeliner for my waterlines and the HBC Keratin Hot Oil Treatment that was always OOS. I was intrigued months ago why among the DIY hair care treatments from HBC this is always OOS. Now I can try this and see what's the rave about :) I also bought this top from a shop near our subdivision selling factory priced clothing from Lee and Jag. Got this for 50& off the tag! But it's to tight for me, I need to lose weight before I can wear this confidently.  The Tony Moly 7 Day Eyebrow Tattoo is the bomb!!! I will muse everything about it on my next post. I really LOVE LOVE it!!! It's the cheaper version of K-Palette (I guess) :D

LEE Lycra Puff Sleeve Blouse
Nichido Mineral Concealer
Tony Moly 7 Days Tattoo
ASIAN SECRETS LULUR BODY SCRUB

     And by the way, the cutie bottle cap earrings was a gift from le sister on my birthday. She said she won in a giveaway and this was her prize from Hodge Podge. She's very shy to use this because of the word blogger written on it. Thank you so much Krystal! I'm also shy to wear this even if this is the craft that I love doing. I don't want others to misinterpret me wearing those earrings. But if I'm with blogger friends, I'll wear it because I'm sure they'll understand me 100%

HBC Keratin Hot Oil Treatment
QUICK FX PIMPLE ERASER
PUREDERM MAKEUP CLEANSING TISSUE

     That's all for now. Drop a comment below if you have tried these products before. Have a great weekend ahead!

Good Times!~

Product Review: ACNE CARE Lactoferrin Anti-Acne Complex

     Hi dearies, how's your weekend so far? Mine still has the paralyzed lazy body feeling from this cold weather. But there's another factor causing this but I'm still unsure if this is the right time to tell you. I'l just let you know if it's confirmed :) Now back to my post, this is a long overdue review since I already finished 3 bottles of this supplement last year. Our friends from Vida Nutri Science Inc. sent me this product for feature and I was intrigued with the benefits. Who doesn't want a pimple free skin? Since this is an organic supplement I decided to give it a shot and see the significant effect on my pimple prone and blemished skin. Here's a brief description of the supplement. For those who can't find a stock of this product in leading drugstore, you may find one at http://www.cheskasstore.net/

AcneCare Fight Pimples from the Inside Naturally

     Comprises of a proprietary blend that derives a bioactive complex rich Lactoferrin , Linumlife and zinc gluconate. AcneCare is based on milk's many bioactive components with specific physiological effects to support the reduction of blemishes and redness associated with a bad complexion. The most essential mechanisms are the anti-microbial, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help promote a healthy complexion from the inside.

• Clinically proven against Acne.

• Helps you get rid of acne, red spots and blemishes.

• Also works for body acne and adult acne.

• Promotes and maintains healthy skin and clear complexion.

AcneCare contains 3 Anti- Acne Complex:

Lactoferrin- Lactoferrin plays a supportive role in nourishing the skin from the inside through three mechanisms: anti-microbial (enhances the body's natural defenses against bacteria), anti-inflammatory (helps assist reduction in redness associated with a poor complexion), and antioxidant (helps aid the repair of damaged skin cells from blemishes.

LinumLife Complex provides lignans from Flax, a well-recognized group of phytoestrogens with estrogenic and anti-estrogenic action, which helps in the treatment of acne. Produced through a proprietary process, LinumLife Complex is concentrated and provides between 10 to 30 times more lignans than whole flax or other flax ingredients.

Zinc facilitates the production and regulation of about 200 hormones in your body, and one of that is testosterone. It is known that testosterone is one of the main promoters of acne. Intake of zinc may prevent potential hormone imbalances that can lead to outbreaks.

Zinc is also closely involved in protein synthesis and in collagen formation in your body, both of which are essential in the maintenance of healthy skin and in normalizing production of skin oils. Zinc can help heal your blemishes, reduce the inflammation, and reduce the androgenic effect of hormones on your skin.

ACNE CARE Lactoferrin Anti-Acne Complex
AcneCare 30 capsules/bottle at Php 885.00 good for two weeks use.

ACNE CARE Lactoferrin Anti-Acne Complex

ACNE CARE Lactoferrin Anti-Acne Complex

size: 30 capsules/bottle good for 2 weeks use

price: 885 php (Around $21.00+)

place bought: free 

Available at all leading Mercury Drug, Watsons and Southstar Drugstore

Also available at  http://www.cheskasstore.net/

instruction for use: Take 1 capsule every morning and evening (2 daily) or as directed by a healthcare professional.

ingredients: PER CAPSULE- Lactoferrin 100mg, Linumlife Extra 25mg, Zinc Gluconate 6.4mg

What I like:

• It's organic.
• It's odorless.
• Capsule size is easy to swallow.
• No negative reactions or whatsoever.
• During the time I'm taking this supplement, my skin felt soft and smooth and less oily.
• It helped me lessen my cystic pimples during my period.

What I don't like:

• The price can be a bit steep for teenagers specially on their adolescence stage because this is the time where breakouts begin. If they will maintain this supplement, it will cost them around 1,800+ for a months supply. I'm sure moms will skip this and let them cure acne breakouts through topical ointments.

Will I repurchase? Yes, it's in the realm of possibility.

Recommendation:

     I give this a 4/5 rating. This is my first time taking an anti acne supplement and I'm impressed even thought it didn't gave me the kinis (smooth) skin that I wanted to achieve. It still helped me though in managing breakouts during my period. The products they sent me are good for 1 and a half month supply so I guess it will take months before I see the maximum result. Maybe taking it religiously for 3 months will totally heal existing blemishes and prevent future breakouts. But if given a chance, I will take this supplement again since this is organic and doesn't contain harmful chemicals. 

     Have you tried taking medicines or supplements to combat acne breakouts or skin imperfections before? Please share your experiences. Thank you so much!!!

You may also order at Cheska's Online Store

email: cheskasstore@yahoo.com

mobile numbers: 0915-3463000, 0922-5458124 and 0928-3997789

Like them on Facebook: Cheska's Store

Follow them on Instagram: @cheskasstore

Good Times!~

DISCLAIMER: This product was sent to me by Vida NutriScience for review. The views expressed here are my honest opinion about the product.

Product Review: Tony Moly Floria Cleansing Tissue

     Neutrogena Wipes, Purederm Makeup Cleansing Tissues and Nivea Visage Cleansing Wipes were among the trusted facial wipes brand that I've tried. I'm using Purederm Makeup Cleansing Tissue for the longest time now because it can remove my day/light makeup without the sticky feel. But when I have full face makeup on, I'm sure Purederm needs extra help but it's much better if I can find another makeup cleansing tissue that can be labeled as heavy duty! Something that can removed even the toughest stain from cheek and lip tints, pigmented lipsticks and waterproof makeup. Thanks to Tony Moly, for giving us affordable and effective line of skin care products. So how did I discovered this Floria cleansing tissue? Here's a very short story...

     The day before The Glorietta Vibe, I was preparing for the stuff and my makeup for that event suddenly pop up in my mind. I knew that bringing makeup remover and cottonballs can take some of the space in my bag so I need to look for something travel friendly and of course can do the job. I went to Sm Fairview and passed by Tony Moly, I saw a poster of the Floria line but had no idea that this line also has makeup cleansing tissue. When I saw the shelves where this cleansing tissue was sitting, I grabbed it immediately. I didn't read the label and just rushed to the cashier. After paying, I was ecstatic why I brought this and have doubts if this product will work. I have no choice but to bring this to the event, I don't want to waste my time and money and regret that I bought it. During the event, I need to remove my day makeup, upon using this I saw my face very clean and refreshed. That's the time I said to myself this product works! After more than 3 uses, First during the Vibe event, Second after my FAB Holiday Makeover at the Jing Monis Salon and lastly in the photo below after the wedding that we attended last Decemeber.  

     Now here's my take on Tony Moly's Floria cleansing tissue, read more to find out if this cleansing wipes can remove all the traces of heavy makeup.

Tony Moly Floria Cleansing Tissue
This cleansing tissue, with the plant-based detoxification ingredients of Hibiscus, and Calendula extracts, removes the residue of make up without leaving a sticky feeling. 
Cleansing tissue from flower extract ingredients that has a mild and light usage
(Available in 15's and 30's)
*from Tony Moly Global website*

Tony Moly Floria Cleansing Tissue
There's a Korean and English text translation! Manufacturing and Expiry date present!

size: 15 sheets/ 80g

price: 98 php (Around $2.00+)

place bought: Tony Moly Sm Fairview

instructions for use: Pull back the sticker a little and take out one sheet. Remove eye and lip make up first gently. First, place tissue on eyes and lips, press 3~5 seconds and wipe, wipe the face area following the skin texture, and wash using foam cleansing. Replace the sticker after use.

ingredients: Water, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Alcohol, Panthenol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Rosa Centifolia Flower Water, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Prunus Serrulata Flower Extract, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polysorbate 20 Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Methylchloroisothizolinone, Methyliosthiazlinone, Fragrance (Parfum)

Tony Moly Floria Cleansing Tissue
Full face makeup: Benefit the Porefessional Primer, Kanebo KATE  Powederless Liquid Foundation,  4u2  dreamgirl lovelight bb powder, Garnier Light BB Eye Roll On, MAC eyeshadows, AVON liquid eyeliner, Covergirl Lashblast waterproof mascara, Skinfood Rose Cheek Chalk, MAC Girl About Town Lipstick.
*eye makeup courtesy of my youngest sister Krystel*

Tony Moly Floria Cleansing Tissue
Flash On

Tony Moly Floria Cleansing Tissue
Without flash, you can see all the gunk of makeup here and there. Can you tell me which is which?

What I like:

• Scent is not overpowering, smells good and has a mild floral scent.
• Does the job in removing heavy makeup specially waterproof ones and pigmented lipstick.
• My skin felt clean and refreshed. 
• Travel friendly.
• Doesn't sting my eyes.
• One sheet is enough for my entire face.
• Not dripping wet and almost dry unlike other facial wipes.
• Easily accessible, it's always available on Tony Moly's shelves.
• Manufacturing and expiration date printed on the package.

What I don't like:

• A little pricey compared to Purederm Makeup Cleansing Tissue but this does the job in removing waterproof makeups.

Will I repurchase? Yes!!! This is very nice in removing all the heavy traces of makeup.

Recommendation:

     I give this a 4.75/5 rating. Need I say more? It's easy peasy to use specially for the lazy ones like me. Just let the tissue sit on your face and you can also press gently for 3-5 minutes before wiping it all over your face. Be careful not to tug your eyes when removing eye makeup, we don't want pre-mature lines and wrinkles there right? Even if this is the best cleansing wipes of all, it's still advisable to wash your face with your favorite wash/soap so that you'll have the squeaky clean face with no traces of makeup. Just a friendly reminder: No matter how lazy and dead tired you are, please wash your face before hitting the sack. :)

     Have you tried this facial wipes? What's your favorite product from Tony Moly? Thanks for sharing!

Good Times!~

Product Review: Kerastase Reflection Bain Chroma Riche Shampoo

     How do you cope with the breezy cold weather lately? I hate this bed weather because it makes my whole body paralyzed! Yes, I've been sleeping the whole day for 3 days now. I'm not sure if the weather is the culprit but whatever it is, I need to be back on my blogging stint. I have pending reviews from last year and I'll make it up to you. So to start, let me share my thoughts on another expensive hair care product- Kerastase Reflection Bain Chroma Riche shampoo. I got this product when I won the giveaway that I joined last August 2012. I'm using this together with Kerastase Reflection Bain Chroma Riche Masque for around 4-5 months now. FYI, I shampoo my hair twice or thrice a week only that's why a bottle of shampoo lasts a long long time. I know Kerastase hair care products are one of the most expensive line in the market that's why I'm expecting a 100% result after every wash of giving my color-treated hair the shine that it needs. 

Kerastase Reflection Bain Chroma Riche Shampoo
When color treated hair comes up against daily attacks such as heat styling irons, UV rays, external pollutants and chemical treatments, Kerastase Reflection BainChroma Riche will soften and bathe the strands to help hydrate and give back intensity and shine. Formulated with Kerastase Aqua-Ionic System, it re-sources with essential elements and fills the fiber with micro prisms and light refractors, leaving your hair fibers with a luminous, mirror-like shine.

Kerastase Reflection Bain Chroma Riche Shampoo
A protective shampoo for dry, highlighted color treated hair

Anti-fading.
Cleanses while adding softness and shine.
Moisturizes hair so it feels supple to the touch.
UV Filter.
Hair shimmers with radiance.
 *kerastase usa*

size: 250ml / 8.5 fl.oz.

price: 1,450 php (Around $38.00+)

price based from David's Salon Sm Fairview

place bought: free (got it from as a prize from a giveaway)

leading salons nationwide

instructions for use: Apply a quarter-sized amount to wet hair and massage with flat hands. Emulsify and rinse thoroughly. For maximum results, follow with Kerastase Reflection Chroma Riche Masque.

ingredients: Aqua/Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Coco Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Amodimethicone, Laureth-5 Carboxylic Acid, Cocamide Mipa, Polyquarternium-10, PPG-5-Ceteth-20 ,Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Methylparaben, Peg-55 Propylene Glycol Oleate, Propylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Ethylparaben, Tocopehryl Acetate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Limonene, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, Hexylcinnamal, Citronellol,Methyl Cocoate, Geraniol, Sodium Cocoate, CI 17200/red33, Parfum/Fragrance. C28697/1.

What I like:

• Classy and luxurious packaging.
• I like the scent, smells so good!
• My hair looks silky and smooth.
• The color of my hair retained it's vibrancy after so many washes.
• No dandruff and breakouts on my back and in my forehead.

What I don't like:

• The price! It's verrry expensive for a cheapskate like me
• Even though the packaging is classy and looks luxurious, I prefer pump type bottle because I can control on how much product to dispense.
• My hair feels a bit dry and rough as it needs conditioner afterwards.
• Doesn't produce enough lather, I feel like using organic shampoo.
• Weighs down my hair and makes it frizzy if I just let it dry naturally.

Will I repurchase? No, there's a lot of cheap and cost-effective shampoos out there to try.

Recommendation:

     I give this a 3/5 rating. I'm having difficulty seeing the results :( Honestly, I really wanted to give this product another chance after emptying the bottle. I'm thinking of using this everyday starting today to see if there's any difference from my cons above. Maintaining a color-treated hair can be expensive and needs to much effort. You need to have a shampoo-conditioner-serum-treatment (masque, cream or oil) specially formulated for color-treated hair to maintain it's color and to avoid dryness. I'm very lucky I have tried this product, this is very expensive for me and I know I'll not be able to purchase this again in the realm of possibility. 

     Have you tried any expensive and high-end shampoo before? Or you're currently using one?

Good Times!~

February in December

     I've been meaning to share this post last week before I published my FAB Holiday Makeover at The Jing Monis Salon but I'm still waiting for the last prize to arrive. So when it arrived yesterday, I took photos of it and now the list is complete. Why February in December? I guess, what happened last February on all the giveaways that I joined happened again last month. If you read my posts: February Part 1 and February Part II you'll say that I'm really very lucky when it comes to online giveaways, contests and promos. 

     Jing Monis Salon I DV Hairpieces Like and Share Giveaway

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.454458784601638.95700.375273799186804&type=1

READ my makeover experience here :D

Lissa Kahayon x SM GTW Christmas Promo Giveaway

http://www.lissakahayon.com/2012/11/christmas-promo-from-sm-gtw-blog.html

So Gelleesh Hair Care Giveaway

http://www.gelleesh.com/2012/12/the-black-pelan-hot-oil-is-yours.html

     Thank you Gellie, I can now have a hair spa party with my sisters at home. This winning is very timely since our hairs need some loving from all the abuses last year. Think of dyeing, straightening and curling our hair using mechanical and chemical products. 

Vanity and Everything in Between's BDJ 2013 Planner Giveaway

http://www.rarevanity.net/2012/12/winner-of-bdj-2013-planner.html

     Yay to my new planner! I can say this is my first "formal planner" to date. I had one planner before but can't call it the real planner because all I did was post stickers to it and never wrote anything on the pages. Bummer! So now, I'm very motivated to write all the thoughts I have in mind because BDJ planner is not just a planner, it's a power planner. Everything a woman needs in a planner is on BDJ :D

Bioessence Christmas Treat

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=521994727824854&set=a.277270825630580.75251.236767139680949&type=1&theater

Kanebo Powderless Liquid Foundation Sample and Makeover

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=370911622998093&set=a.233682206721036.55028.183987861690471&type=1&theater

     Had this makeover last December at Kanebo counter Sm beauty section Mall of Asia. The MUA there was very approachable and never had a dull moment while she's doing my makeup.  Silly me forgot her name :( I love the transformation she did using this new foundation from Kanebo. I like my eye makeup here because of the smokey look that doesn't look to harsh for daytime. The coverage is excellent, no need for concealer and it turns into powder that looks good on photos. I hope I can get a full-size of this product soonest!!! Hello another tipid mode (saving mode)

Good Times!~