Tag Archives: beauty haul

Malaysian beauty and skincare products

Posted in Beauty Products, Reviews by

Social media has convinced consumers like myself to try our local products. Although some can be on the much pricier side – as long as I believe it is good for our economic cycle, I can afford to do so. These are the skincare and beauty products I have tried this year and I have to say, they leave quite a positive impression.

Simplysiti

I used to be a big fan of this cosmetic and skincare range, especially during the times of Dermagic in dark purple packaging. However, I stopped because I noted that the formula of their moisturizer (back then) felt a bit off and that was when I realized that their main manufacturer had changed from South Korea to Indonesia. They must have tweaked the ingredients a bit, out of innovation, only that it was too noticeable and did not appeal to my liking.

This time I got their serum, moisturizer and sunscreen. The sunscreen was my least favourite because the scent of bubblegum was too overpowering. I did love their moisturizer and serum.

CUURA

I was intrigued by this brand because beauty influencers were all over them with the ‘ooohhh’ and ‘aaaahhh’ for their sunscreen and supplements. I did buy their sunscreen which was great as it had the texture of BOJ and up till now I am still consuming their GLO NECTAR. Recently, I purchased their Travel Kit which has 5 items inside: DetoxCleanser (10mls), Dew Drops Essence (10ml), Hydra Boost Serum (10ml), Aqua Boost Moisturizer (10ml) and Brightening Sunscreen (10ml). It was priced at RM124 but I wished they could make it for less than RM100 or at least lower than RM110. The application is straightforward. I rationed them as I didn’t want them to finish too quickly. Ha ha. It’s great as a trial kit of their products as well.

HYGR

I was sceptical about trying their deodorant at first but once I did – I was in love. Yes, it is pricey but honestly, with it’s combined compact look and lingering scent, I would repeat my purchase. I bought the Citrus and Tea Tree deodorant. I also bought 2 sticks of lip balm in the code, Hibiscus. I gave one stick to my cousin. I chose Hibiscus because I think it complements my skin tone nicely. The fascinating thing about the lip balm is that it is pigmented enough to be used as a mono eyeshadow and a blusher. Hence, it became a great companion for my travels. In fact, I did bring it with me on my trips to Kuching and Miri.

LADY.NURTURAL

The owner of this business was a blogger that I really loved reading about since her younger years. Based on her blogging style, I have always regarded her as one of those with a flair for creativity and empathetic reasoning. Thus, I am overjoyed to see her translate these traits into her home business. You could see the love she put into the making of her product, the packaging and the marketing. I wouldn’t expect any less.

I bought some soaps from her website. I was terribly influenced to try the HUTAN soap bar because I wanted to experience the earthy-wet smell after a shower. Indeed, I did feel like I just got out of a forest, hiking maybe with all the sweat. It had that sort of fresh smell. I also bought the TAWAS soap as a means to reduce body odour. I have another 3 soap bars that have yet to be tried, so it will definitely last me throughout next year. They are too precious to be given away as gifts.

NIHON

NIHON is a skincare line formulated by dermatologists. I didn’t immediately jump on the bandwagon because the founder and those who promoted it in the first place did not appear convincing. However, as times passed with me being desperate to get my pigmentations under control, I decided to take the plunge. I knew that there was no way I would get skin treatment unless I went to Renora Clinic one day and took leave many days afterwards to heal. So, this is perhaps a reliable solution for me to take care of my skin at home.

So I bought the Essence and the Night Repair Creme. I loved the essence immediately and am seriously contemplating replacing my SKII Pitera with it. The creme has retinol which is something I always aim for in my night cream products. However, what I loved most about the creme is it’s tangy, citrus scent. It was uplifting yet calming at the same time for the nighttime application. I am looking forward to exploring other products like their day cream and sunscreen but it will have to wait until I have finished the many others I have at home.

Would you know of any other Malaysian products I can try?

Trying Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun

Posted in Beauty Products, Reviews by

As the blog’s mini headline suggested, I am easily influenced to BUY something, EAT something, or TRY something. My favourite sunscreen, from the brand A’pieu in Natural, was finishing and I wanted to get the Biore one, but since Instagram is flooded with reviews on this Korean sunscreen, I decided to try it.

After all, one of the best rules of sunscreen is to just use whatever sunscreen you like so that you could be consistent in using it daily and incorporate it as part of your individual skincare regime.

I bought myself the Beauty of Joseon Sun Relief cream from Shopee. Priced at RM 45.90. I bought other things too as part of my beauty haul. Which I may or may not write about it in my blog. I am intrigued with the Daughters of Malaya product though, cause it’s local and looks superb. I hope the formula wows me. So, maybe I will share my thoughts on that. later.

These are my recent hauls.

The haul
  • DAUGHTERS OF MALAYA, Summertime Ceramide Liquid Moisturizer, RM35
  • IM UNNY Moisture Face Cleansing Foam, RM25.80
  • 3WCLINIC Fresh Mask Sheet, Red ginseng, RM1
  • 3WCLINIC Fresh Mask Sheet, Cucumber, RM1
  • 3WCLINIC Fresh Mask Sheet, White, RM1
  • SOMEBYMI Rose Intensive Tone Up Cream, RM45
  • SKINLABS C’ENSIL A+E Serum, RM190

Why is the Beauty of Joseon relief sun product famous?

Well, it could be one helluva effective social media campaign using the right influencers to reach the target market. OR it could be a really good product. Especially when the brand says it has extra UV filters in it which in a way makes you doubt the efficacy of other sunscreens. As of now, my personal holy grail is the A’pieu sunscreen for its light, no white cast finish and a distinct ‘ I am wearing sunscreen for a youthful appearance’ scent to keep me motivated to use it. So, I am intrigued to see if Beauty of Joseon is on par with it.

Is this Beauty of Joseon sunscreen equally good? Did I love it?

I have sawo matang skin, to begin with. Honey skin? is that what people in the beauty industry call it? Meaning I’m not as fair as Irene Red Velvet or Dahyun TWICE but more like Hwasa Mamamoo. When beauty influencers said that it doesn’t leave a white cast, I am like – ‘oh? is this brightening effect not considered white cast? Cause I do look a fairer tone after application. Perhaps I need to understand better what white cast means. Thankfully, I wear a hijab – so people wouldn’t really see the difference in the colour of my neck and my face. Unless I am at home but then, nobody is watching. Ha ha. Even then, this mild white cast is somehow absorbed and you’ve left with this invisible (read: transparent) barrier that is supposed to protect your skin.

This product does not have a scent. Which makes me miss A’pieu a lot. Cause A’pieu kind of reassures you that yup, this is a good habit, applying sunscreen. But I do agree that this sun relief cream gives you that radiant, healthy glow instantly. It can even function as a primer. As that base in your makeup or when you choose to go barefaced. I think that is the plus point for me. Not wearing makeup but the face remains flawless. If you have good skin texture to start with.

In short, I love it but my holy grail is still A’pieu Natural sunscreen.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cem8HgqBOxj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cem8ksZBSTl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Mask Acne. A Hermo Haul

Posted in Beauty Products, Online Store, Reviews by

It started with a mild blemish at the chin area. Soon, acnes were erupting not only there but also above my lip. It made me hormonal. I haven’t felt so insecure with my face since teenage years. I had to fix this. This time I went back to the website I used before Althea which is Hermo Online. I didn’t like the courier who sent my previous Althea goods. Rude nak mampus. It is not Althea’s fault though but the choice of courier macam mehhh.. . Therefore, crossing my fingers for a charming courier service. Here is what I did to combat my acne. (in progress)

1. BUY MORE MASK

I decided to buy more 3 ply mask of my own to be changed daily. Sometimes I tend to use it over 2 days. In a way, I hope that the skin could breath better and not be exposed to the same dirt all over again. I discovered a hijabi friendly mask on Shopee that comes as a headloop instead of an ear loop. It’s a 3ply mask that I could use in my workplace setting as well.

2. EAT BETTER. DRINK MORE WATER

It is back to the healthy eating days. More salad. Stocking up on my butterhead and romaine. More plain water. In fact, I cleaned out my freezer and fridge. Whatever we did not touch for the past 6 months goes inside the bin. I also rearranged the tupperwares and dry goods in my little pantry. Bought some 3 tier shelves from Mr D.I.Y. and now I love my food storage area. I figured if we chuck out the nasty stuff – it wouldn’t be an option for our meals. Even so, I still have some crisps and biscuits at hand. For the kids.

3. HERMO HAUL

Its time to take skin care seriously. Again. It has been neglected for quite some time. A lot of experts say that you shouldn’t mix the product. I agree. But for now, I am desperate. If this mask acne is still not taken care off, I might have to step into a medispa or aesthetic clinic to sort it out. Thankfully, I have 2 friends who had just obtained their license to carry out aesthetic related services. I have a phobia with skin treatment especially on the face because I tend to up like a lobster after the session. It ain’t good if it is a work day the next day.

In my haul, Nature Republic is topping the list. Simply because it is one of the cheapest brand on the site. I bought a lot of masks for the face and 2 pieces for the feet. My foot calluses needs some TLC. I am loading quite a few new brands in my shopping cart. First, I have this 14 day miracle cream by Some By Mi. The brand is supposed to be natural, mild yet effective to the skin. I am sold by its AHA-BHA-PHA jargon. Undeniably, any red popping acne will tone down on application within 24-48 hours but it doesn’t make the old acne scars go away. I think I need a different product for that. I have been using this product for 2 weeks and I wonder if it is supposed to be a miracle once the skin purging phase is over. This is because I still have that on off acne making very brief stops on my chin.

This striking yellow goodal green tangerine vit c pad is surprisingly pleasant to use. It does feel a bit acidic though when you apply it on a daily basis. The skin stings. Hence, I am spacing out its application to every 2 -3 days. The price is quite steep so I will definitely keep an eye out out for discounts or sales. A tub of goodal has 70 nice citrus smelling pads selling at RM 84.00. For this purchase, I bought mine at just above RM50.

I am also very consistent with this Aromatica hair essence. It boasts being free from silicone sulfate, an ingredient in hair products that makes it frizzy and all. I have yet to see the results with this essence. My hair still looks like I came out of The Croods movie. Maybe I need to concurrently switch shampoo or something. Anyhow, I have begun to pick up the habit of combing my hair everyday (again). I have stopped doing so since housemanship.

I doubt I’d be aesthetically pleasing for my 10th year wedding anniversary. Coming soon end of December. Nevertheless, I am have planned for a mini staycation to commemorate the day. I even made an effort to get my husband a gift this time. Prior to this, anniversary is just dinner with the kids at a restaurant. We haven’t been going out as a couple ever since I gave birth to the kids. I guess this is the sacrifice we make as a duo in the medical line. I am thinking of snapping good photos as well despite looking fat. It’ll be a great addition to the album.

An Althea Korea (MCO Season Malaysia) Haul

Posted in Beauty Products, Everyday Life, Online Store, Reviews by

It has been a while since I went online shopping. I was glancing through my skin care products and realized that I haven’t had a proper cleansing, toning and moisturizing for quite a while. I have also been neglecting my sunscreen what more my facial scrubs. As for facials, that practice has been ditched many years ago because I am still traumatized by the one and only facial I had in a wellness spa in Kuching. My friend looked refreshed, I turned out like a lobster. A cooked lobster.

My haul amounted up to RM 326.00. Free shipping. This is a video of me unboxing the haul.

So, let’s break down the purchase.

LANEIGE Water sleeping mask

Price : RM69 (after 31% discount)

I was initially smittened by the simple fact that Soong Hye Kyo is the ambassador for Laneige. But that is not enough to make me want to buy the product. It was really because of the part where they described that it has SLEEP-TOX technology with aromatic SLEEPSCENT that helps one to relax. Never mind if it’s a hoax, I am sold. I had to read on my physiology when it mentioned skin circadian rhythm.

MISSHA Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence Rx (150ml)

Price : RM92 (after 39% discount)

This has always been my favourite purchase from MISSHA. This and the BB Cream liquid foundation. Personally, the gold standard for treatment essence is still SK2 but MISSHA I feel, is second to that. I usually dab it lightly onto my face in the morning just before I apply my makeup. On days that I don’t go to work, I would apply it every time after prayers.

MISSHA Time Revolution Artemisia Pack Foam Cleanser (150ml)

Price : 56

It has been a while since I invested in good skin care. I decided to plunge in and purchase this because it has dual function. One as a normal facial cleanser and the other as a claypack. Artemisia is a short shrub known for a few medicinal properties. As for skincare, it is supposed to help ease irritation and redness of the face. So far, I have been using it twice a day and love the earthy smell. Combine that with a cold shower somehow makes me feel like I’m taking a bath in a cold forest somewhere.

KEEP COOL Soothe 85% Bamboo Toner

Price : RM47

I haven’t been compliant to my skincare regime for quite a while and so this toner was one of those impulse purchases. The fact that it was nominated as the 2019 GLowPick makes me want to choose this product formulated from bamboo extract. Plus, there were many positive reviews from Korean influencers. I use this mostly at night before I go to sleep for the cooling effect. And that’s not the only thing I use before going to bed at night.

KEEP COOL Soothe Foot Cooling & Refresh Mist (100ml)

Price : RM40

This is slowly becoming my next favourite product. It made me wonder why did it took me so long to discover this. This is the perfect remedy for the foot after a long day about. All I have to do is spray my foot with it and immediately the cooling effect sets in. And it is not sticky at all! Definitely a repeat order after this. It’s made from menthol/peppermint lead – I am not surprised! It is marketed as a men-friendly product but sweaty women can use this too. It keeps the stinky feet away.

BCOMMONCE Armpit Deo BB Puff (35ml)

Price : RM34 (after 41% discount)

Ok. Definitely got influenced by Tammy Lim on her IG. She is our lovely mamasan in the Butterfly Project community. For this Deo Puff you open it at the cap and immediately the liquid seeps out. The only option you have is to dab it quickly onto your armpit! And then screw the lid back on. To be honest, I haven’t got the guts to try it cause I fear that my work attire will be stained with the BB Cream, so I think I will wait for the weekend or so when I wear sleeveless at home and review the product properly.

I didn’t get my favourite MISSHA foundation because it was out of stock. Next time I am hoping to get some lip tint or eyebrow liner. I also saw raving reviews on this Bamboo face pads.. will give that a try later. Did you get anything interesting from Althea Korea too? Share with me your haul!

The BodyShop Haul

Posted in Everyday Life, Good Things by

img1485589958979.jpg

I went to Bodyshop (Mahkota Parade branch) with one intention in mind. To take a sniff of Bodyshop’s Red Musk  and purchase it if I like it that much. What drew me to try the fragrance was because some blogger mentioned its quite masculine for a woman’s perfume. I Love Men. I yearn that feeling of this little toyol green hulk lurking underneath this persona of a calm, collected lady. Ready to spring out anytime a rage sets in. ROAR!

After 15 mins in the store, I ended up getting more than one item. Just because the lady salesgirl had excellent customer service. It must be my red lipstick. Vavavoom.. She was ever so enthusiastic to go through the products one by one.

I was immediately eligible to become a LoveYourBody (LYB) fan with my minimum purchase of RM100. I spent a total of RM116.50. My hauls include;

img1485590055721.jpg

RM 89.00. EDT Red Musk 30ML.

I bought a small one because I have the tendency to change perfumes depending on my mood. Perhaps I’ll do a review on it later once I go around using it.

img1485590117223.jpg

RM 13.50/bottle of 60ML shower gel [travel size]

I personally chose Satsuma and Olive. The smell was wonderful. Memang rajinlah nak mandi postcall lepas ni. HA ha. The Grapefruit shower gel was one of the items in the LYB Fan Goodie Bag. It came with the Moringa Body Butter below. Girls love FREE GIFTS.

img1485590154376.jpg

I also redeemed the free samples. Because the chances of me returning to the store for another trip is very slim. I was overjoyed when the Youth Bouncy Sleeping Mask came as a sample  – was always intrigued as to how its like.

img1485590076083.jpg

The salesgirl, Sha was very cheeky to ask if I wanted their 50cent paperbag to pack the items. Of course I DO! Never mind their commitment to build a Bio-Bridge, I love the design already. It’s so sturdy and colourful.

Being an LYB fan entitles you to a few perks such as up to date information regarding sales or new releases, birthday discounts, member sales etc. I might consider their fragrances and body bath stuff for future purchases. I have yet to fall head over heels onto their skincare products and makeup line as I have an existing brand which I love and is working for me. But who knows, maybe a lipstick or two could do the trick?