I have been using the Andalou Naturals Acai + White Tea Oil-free Moisturizer for a week now and am looking forward to using it more until I hit my desired results. You see, ever since the skin started acting annoyingly drier on the cheeks and sides, I knew I needed more moisture to bring more youth and radiance to these dried up areas.

The Andalou Naturals Acai + White Tea Oil-free Moisturizer, 62mL, P959 at Healthy Options


One of my best friends, Mitch, swears by the Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Oil and I can attest to how her skin improved from it. I wanted the same, beautiful result she got; the Acai + White Tea wasn't really my first choice, in fact, it was my last! So what won me over? Let me tell you:

• I was already very ready to get the serum from Kiehl's when I stumbled upon its Beautypedia review. It was disheartening.
• In relation to #1 which stated that while Kiehl's can work for dry skin (Mitch had matte, acne-free skin), the oil ingredients in it may be more of an irritant to non-dry skin types. It lists down Coriander, Lavender and Rosemary (oils) as the main irritants to oily skin. Kiehl's could work for Mitch, I can't be sure I can say the same for my combination to oily skin.
• The Oil-Free Moisturizer from Andalou Naturals, categorized under Beautypedia's best products, stood out among a good number of effective but locally unavailable moisturizers on the list. It hailed the moisturizer's list of antioxidants & skin-repairing ingredients.

• Price-wise, Andalou was more inexpensive. Way more inexpensive. Healthy Options tagged it reasonably at P959 (62mL). Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate, 50mL, sells for 3k+php.

The Acai + White Tea Oil-free Moisturizer  is also available in a test size, 12mL, but is part of a skin clarifying set (priced at 900+ too). I would've bought the set if I were eyeing a whole line for the skin beacuse it is such a good deal.

Photo from iherb.com- Andalou Naturals Get started Clarifying Set: Great for Oily and Combination Skin

The Andalou Naturals Acai + White Tea Oil-free Moisturizer can be a mouthful as is the more popular and well-loved Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate. I hope I made the right choice by trying out the more inexpensive one before jumping to the more luxurious brand. Detailed review in the next few months-- wish my skin luck!

I am not new to pimples or pimpy as I've been with it almost half my life! I've had a long list of insecurities and woes just because I had tons of pimpy all over my face. The very reason I started chronicling beauty products & regimens and dermatologic procedures is to make others aware that there are things that help alleviate stubborn pimpy and make them go away.

Belo Essentials now offers an anti-acne skin solutions in the new AcnePro three-step Clear Skin system. The skincare line banks on the efficacy of Purified Bee venom in clinically treating mild to moderate acne by minimizing inflammation. Through AcnePro's Cleansing, Toning and Repairing stages, almost anyone can say hello to a cleaner and clearer skin everyday!

  

Belo Essentials AcnePro Gel Face Wash (50mL, P99.75) "Effectively helps eliminate acne-causing bacteria & remove excess oil leaving skin smoother and pimple-free."

A pea-sized amount of the gel-like facial wash generously foams into a lather that cleans the face well and leaves skin fresh and still well-moisturized. This wash is nice to use in following up a good makeup remover to ensure deep-seated oil and dirt are taken cared of.

Cleansing is almost a forgettable part of a skincare regimen. I was able to love it more when I felt how soft and supple my skin has become after the 2nd week into using this.

Belo Essentials AcnePro Treatment Toner (60ml, P79.75) "Effectively unclogs congested pores, dry up pimples and exfoliate dead skin cells."

The toning experience further refreshes the skin with a cool, soothing liquid. I like how it is lightly scented making me forget that toners usually smell of medication or strong alcohol.

A word of caution to those with oily skin: the toner can take time getting absorbed into the skin so make sure not to over saturate the cotton pad for it. It's fine if it happens in the evening before bed time but can be a pain if you use to much toner in the morning as it can feel a bit tacky against the skin. What's great about the toner is that you don't need too much to make it work.

Belo Essentials AcnePro Pimple Gel (10g, P149.75) "Helps dry up pimples fast, lighten blemishes, calm inflammation and promote healing & ant-bacterial action."

Repair is probably the most exciting stage in the system as this is where "magic" happens. The AcnePro pimple gel tube is packed with a non-fragrant product that effectively retards the ugly process of an exacerbated & inflamed pimpy. The key is to be keen enough to do the Repair Work at the onset of a growing pimple!

I like that all products in the AcnePro skincare system are oil-free and are truly hypoallergenic & non-comedogenic during the whole time I've been testing it out. The three products are also packed well and in durable, fuss-free tubes and bottles and the sizes of each product is perfect either for travel or for a full-month's use.

With the truly affordable price tag on top of it all, Belo Essentials AcnePro 3-Step Clear Skin System is probably the next best skincare line worth checking out. Using the products twice a day makes it easier for anyone to finally take charge of their skin, face the world and do more, and finally say goodbye to pimpy!

Disclaimer: Products were sent to me for review purposes

I haven't used anything new for my skin lately except for the Shiseido Ibuki duo that broke me out badly. Now that my skin cleared up and has recovered from the post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from fractional CO2 laser therapy, I'm ready for new skintastic treats before the month ends.

1. Camaru Naturals Amazonian Clay Face Mask - cleanses, detoxifies and purifies the skin for visibly clearer complexion
2. Paula's Choice RESIST Pure Radiance Skin Brightening Treatment - imparts instant radiance, reduces dark spots and diminishes wrinkles
3. Paula's Choice Shine Stopper Instant Matte Finish - controls oil, minimizes pore appearance and smooths-out imperfections
4. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid - creates radiant and even-toned skin and unclogs & diminishes enlarged pores
5. Paula's Choice RESIST Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator - silky gel-cream that hydrates and firms the skin

I'm thrilled to learn that Proudly Filipino brand Camaru Naturals' has come up with a face mask that contains the very ingredient that makes my fave bar soap from the brand tick, activated bamboo charcoal! Their soap brightens the skin on my body and I can't wait to see how it fares for the face.

And it still feels surreal I'm looking at skincare from Paula's Choice. I'm very excited to find out which of these four my skin will love best!

Disclaimer: This non-paid post contains products sent to me for review purposes

I received four sachets of samples from Shiseido's new Ibuki line (2 sachets of the Softening Concentrate and 2 of the Refining Moisturizer) from Sample Room yesterday. I'm testing these today!

When Liz blogged about the Ibuki line, I knew I had to try out the softener and the refining moisturizer. I would have really wanted to try the protective moisturizer but out of practicality, I veer from SPF-ed moisturizers so that I can use them at night if they prove to be too oily for my skin at daytime.

These samples are probably going to last me 4-6 days' use (softener: 2x/day, moisturizer: 1x/day). I hope I don't break out as they smell and feel so luxuriously good!

Samples from the Ibuki line are still available at Sample Room.

When I turned 33 this year, I noticed that my feet looked a lot drier than before making wearing fitflops and any open-toed shoes a bit of a nightmare for me. I was already carting a heavy moisturizer I found on the internet when the kind people from Vibelle sent me two highly moisturizing Jergens lotions- the Overnight Repair and Ultra Healing. Yes, how convenient!

Jergens Overnight Repair and Ultra Healing lotions, 100mL, P100.

I know there are specific creams and lotions for the feet but I've always experienced that regular body lotions worked well enough anyway. Although I must admit, I may have to follow a completely different school of thought when I turn 40.

The Experiment:

In an experiment, I tested both water-based moisturizers for their ability to:
(1) smoothen the skin on my toes, and
(2) eliminate the cracks on my heels

Every night for 30 days, I smoothed Jergens Ultra Healing Extra Dry Skin on the left foot and Jergens Overnight Repair on the right, massaging a lot more product on all toes and both heels. I also covered both feet with socks; it's not a quick ritual but hey, when is curing a disease (omg, a disease!) ever an easy task?

Care to guess which lotion worked better for my feet?

Jergens Ultra Healing vs. Jergens Overnight Repair

	Jergens Ultra Healing - Heal & Soften	Jergens Overnight Repair - Repair & Restore
Product Info	this fast absorbing body lotion goes deep beneath skin's surface to lock in moisture for 24 hours of relief. With continued use, it actually triples skin's moisture content, healing dryness at the source to prevent its unwelcome return. Use daily, giving special attention to elbows, knees, hands and other dry area	repairs and rejuvenates overnight so you can sleep beautifully and wake up to revived skin. With it's effective formula of antioxidant vitamins and healing hydrators, this body lotion replenishes skin's moisture reserves and quenches dry skin as you sleep. It softens and smooths to repair a week's worth of damage in just one night.
Key Ingredients	Vitamins A, C, and Pro-Vitamin B5	evening primrose, shea butter, jasmine, acerola
Scent	classic Jergens	faint floral, very pleasant
Texture & Feel	very creamy, takes more time to get absorbed by skin	creamy, absorbs quickly
Greasy?	Yes + very shiny nails	No. very cool and satin-y afterfeel
Moisturizing?	Highly	Highly
MUA rating	4.3 /5 with 84% of the 229 raters repurchasing	4.1 /5 with 83% of the 19 raters repurchasing

While the ugly cracks on my heels weren't completely eliminated by Day 30, they are less noticeable now and more visibly so on the right heel. The very dry skin covering the phallanges of my right foot have been significantly improved, too. Clearly, Jergens Overnight Repair fared better than the Ultra Healing variant in this experiment.

I spend the least over body moisturizers as I have a generally problem-free skin from the neck down. However, when my feet started to look very dehydrated this year, I convinced myself to invest in pricier heavy moisturizers. Even toyed with the idea of getting an expensive foot care set. But then, with the discovery of what the 100-peso Jergens Overnight Repair lotion (and socks!) can do for me, I just saved myself from  a couple of unnecessary spending!

Disclaimer: Products were sent to me for review purposes. Post content is in accordance with my personal experience while using the Jergens Ultra Healing and Overnight Repair lotions. I tested these products on my own two feet and never on kitty nor wabbit paws.

Two days ago, I started testing two new skincare products from Nature Republic, the Original Power Whitening and Lineless Ampoule and the The First Number One Essence (a GWP trial size I received). I normally don't do a post about products I currently screen, especially if it has only been a few days of use, but these two deserve to be exceptions.

The morning after the first night I used the tandem,  I woke up so late I barely had time to do my face. I risked public scrutiny (of my dry and scarred cheeks & my oily t-zone) by leaving home with only some tinted balm on my lips. And guess what---

I just accidentally discovered how much I can go bare-faced the entire day without feeling too embarrassed. Although it's not the first time I braved the streets without powder on as I've been bare-faced doing car-less errands ever since my skin got better (I used to pack powder foundation even if it's just an errand right across the street! it used to be that bad), but this is the first time I survived a day without makeup. I only had to wash my face 3-4 times (soapless) within the day to get rid of the extra oilies.

        Summary of Nature Republic's The First skincare line. Click out to improve readability; photo from Nature Republic           website

      Click out to improve readability; photo from Nature Republic website

Prior to the no-makeup epiphany, I have been using the Original Power whitening & lineless ampoule alone and it didn't do much for me. I should've road-tested the essence minus the ampoule but for reasons I don't know, I used the two at the same time. I will definitely isolate the essence's results after a few weeks.

I'm still a little skeptic over the improvement it gave my skin at a very short time that I bury myself thinking of the other factors that may have contributed to making my skin look better. Have you had skincare products that worked so quick, too? Did you ever end up stocking up on them? Would love to know!

If you love the Neutrogena Ultra-Sheer Dry Touch during these hot, scorching days, you'll definitely be in for some sun care treat with Neutrogena's newest addition to the Hydroboost line --- the Hydroboost Gel SPF30! 

Some few weeks ago, I witnessed the unveiling of three new skincare products from the Neutrogena event: the Hydroboost Gel SPF 30 and two Deep Clean Ultra Foam cleansers.

The event opened with a 4-course dinner which I must say struck me as the best event dinner I've ever had to date. Chef Vincent Rodriguez of Peppermill Caterers, Inc. totally prepped us for a night of wonderful (and delicious!) things.

Continue reading »

I got this in the mail and it didn't take a lot of effort for these three to intrigue me. How can something as black as charcoal promote whitening? And what-the-H is Acerola? Camaru Naturals sent me their best sellers, Bamboo Charcoal and Acerola White C face and body soaps. Since anything whitening can degrade the skin's moisture, Camaru guys threw in an intriguing bottle of Camellia Rose moisturizer.

I am honored to try these products out (they're proudly Pinoy!). I usually give soaps a good 3-4weeks trial time before the verdict, but if these two deliver fast, I may have to fill you in quite sooner.

Check out their benefits:

Continue reading »

I got the Acnesol Pimple Control Facial Cream primarily because of the words, "Pimple Control". I knew it had to be some spot treatment for my adult, hormonal imbalance-induced zits. It never occurred to me that I was actually getting a 44-Peso (~$1) product that works better as a day moisturizer!

Acnesol Pimple Control Facial Cream, 1.1oz/30g, 102php (44php on sale)

Effective Moisturizer

I have been using this consistently for a week now. Previously, I've been on Human Heart Nature's sunflower beauty oil OR Cetaphil moisturizing lotion. I top em with the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel to lessen the sticky afterfeel. But because the Acnesol Pimple Control Facial Cream is absorbed quicker by my skin and is non-greasy, I'm now able to cut down on my prep time by skipping the water gel. 

No Pimple-Fighting Effect

My skin notoriously reacts horribly to Pond's products. I put Acnesol's name to the test by buying a 5-peso sachet of Pond's facial wash and  bravely slathered the archenemy on my skin. Morning after the stupid yet noble experiment, the side of my nose hurt like there was a huge pimple waiting to explode (which progressed as a HUMONGOUS pus-filled whitehead... yeah, you get the picture). 

I used Acnesol Pimple Control Face Cream for a week but it wasn't able to address the induced zit. Perhaps, since this product is devoid of the more potent pimple-fighting ingredients (i.e., salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide), it was unable to control a throbbing pimple. But it may be able to prevent future zits. I have to roadtest for a longer time.

Acnesol Pimple Control Collection, approx 230+php

Ingredients Detective: 

Ingredients: deionized H2O, shea butter, squalene, potassium azeloyl diglycinate and fragrance, caprylic capric triglyceride, MDBGN/PE, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate

• shea butter - popular, highly effective moisturizer; contains beneficial vegetable fats that promote cell regeneration and circulation, making it a wonderful healer and rejuvenator for troubled or aging skin (quoted)

• squalene - (and squalane) act as lubricants on the skin surface, which gives the skin a soft, smooth appearance

• potassium azeloyl diglycinate (PAD) - helps control the secretion of oil to prevent the formation of blackheads and whiteheads; inhibits the activity of Tyrosinase, in order to help lighten the skin and facilitate the fading of spots; increases skin’s moisture to improve skin elasticity.

• caprylic capric triglyceride - (quoted) some benefits of caprylic/capric triglyceride include the fact that it is not greasy at all, and has a very light texture. It is also rapidly absorbing, and is highly skin-compatible, due to the fact that it will not aggravate sensitive skin types. It also does not leave behind visible oil remnants on the skin; ALSO, slows the loss of water from the skin by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface. It is also used to alter the thickness of liquid products

• MDBGN/PE - a cosmetic preservative that may cause allergic reactions. do a patch test!

• Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate - provides a sensation of freshness followed by a melting effect on contact with the skin; it leaves a feeling of velvety softness

Because of this new discovery, I can't help but take a peek at their other affordable skincare combos: Anti-Aging, Whitening, and Sensitive Skin lines.

Dermatox Age Reducer Collection

Illuminous Skin Whitening Collection

Puressence Mild Skincare Collection

These kits cost 200-300php. Separates are also available if you're plainly interested in one of the products in the collection. My eyes are on the Illuminous Collection!

I will continue using the Acnesol Pimple Control Facial Cream. No breakouts, no allergies, only better skin 'neath makeup as of now.

Today marks the second month I've been using the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel. Coincidentally, I've been experiencing unusual dryness on the cheeks and on some parts of the nose (way back February) and I'm on the lookout for a good moisturizer ever since I parted ways with my ex-HG, Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. A few months ago at the Neutrogena event, I realized that the lack of a good moisturizer is just the tip of the iceberg. I am actually guilty of a roll of daily skin dehydrating conditions! 

With this problem at hand, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel has been under strict scrutiny ever since I got hold of it.

The Product's Oath

Combining advanced skin-caring elements that replenish and repair skin from within, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel constantly hydrates and protects skin from the negative effects of your daily routine. It works two ways to hydrate and rehydrate skin: It increases hydration levels uo to 200% and its innovative "12-Hour Progressive Release System" replenishes hydration all day long (transcribed from product brochure).

Packaging

The 50g moisturizer is contained in a sleek and attractive deep sky blue tub. It's a tad bulky if you'd ask me, but if the brand was going for a high-end look to this new product, I must say they've nailed it.

There are two caps enclosing the tub: the screw cap and some "i-don't-know-what-it's-called" cover. It's a smart move, to put two lids, to prevent the good product from staining the screw cap right away which can get the entire tub messy.

Texture and Scent

If there's one thing that I'll remember about the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel by the time I get senile, it will be its amazing fluid-y texture! The texture is in between that of a gel's and water's. Its consistency is thin, runny and translucent. I'm certain that this is one of the product's strongest points.

The scent, on the other hand, is something I won't, or wouldn't want to remember. It's not that it's terrible, I just prefer my skincare products to be unscented.

Finish and Feel

Because of the remarkable texture, this moisturizer spreads easily even on my driest areas and gets absorbed by my skin rather quickly. With the right pea-size amount, this never leaves my skin feeling sticky and instead, I end up with a well-primed face that's velvety to the touch.

Effectivity

Sadly, I was not satisfied with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel's hydrating capabilities for my combination-to-dry skin. My cheeks and sides of the nose still flaked a bit and I wasn't thrilled to see that. Perhaps, for those with dry-skin, this product is meant to be used in conjunction with the Hydro Boost cleanser, toner and serum for maximum efficacy.

However, I find that if I use this as a sleeping pack (think Clinique Moisture Surge and Laneige Water Sleeping Pack), it is able to aid in moisturizing my skin better than using it alone. Also, it's an amazing discovery that I am able to use my sticky moisturizers  under the  Neutogena water gel since the latter can improve the finish and feel of the former. I was actually able to cut down on wasted products because of this!

Photo Credits: Clinique Gel, Laneige Water Sleeping Pack, Clinique Moisture Surge

In the span of time I've been using the water gel as a sleeping pack, it has boosted my skin's radiance and suppleness. As a face primer, it did a good job in keeping my tzone less oily, thus making my face base a bit more long-wearing.

Product Highlights

• 50g; P830.00; available at Watson's
• a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer
• cost-effective; the tub can last approx 3 months (or more!), used twice daily
• no breakouts or purging state for my sensitive skin
• versatile: it's a moisturizer that can turn into a sleeping pack or a face primer 
• you only need a tiny amount of the product

The Letdowns

• a bit pricey for a drugstore product
• not -cone-and-parabens-free (i'm on the lookout for skincare minus the -cones)
• i hope they lessen the fragrance a bit
• packaging is too big for travel  

Helpful Hints:

1. use a spatula to get the product off the tub
2. use a small amount of the product (pea-size amount dotted on the forehead, cheeks and chin). it's all you need, really. more than that may just be over the top.
3. if you have dry skin and you have moisturizer you're not using because of the gloopy after feel, use the Neutrogena Hydro boost water gel on top of it (let the sticky moisturizer sink in for a few minutes first) and transform its texture!
4. for travel, scoop some product onto a small pot for more days of skin hydration outside home

Recommendation

I can say that this product is at par with most notable hydrating gels in the market. This is definitely something I'd recommend for oily skin. This doubles up as a makeup primer so that you can lessen the stuff you pack into your skin. For those with dry skin, you may want to skip this OR you can use it as a sleeping pack on top of your favorite night time moisturizer.

Photo Credits: Clinique Gel, Laneige, Moisture Surge

I just hope that the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel can come in smaller, budget-friendly minis. This is quite a pricey product and it's sad that a lot of oily-skinned might be missing on it because of its relatively prohibitive tag.

It's having a dehydrated skin!

Our no-nonsense brochure at the Neutrogena event

Two nights ago at the Neutrogena event, I learned tons of skincare deets that will definitely equip me in my battle against dull, aging and problematic skin. We talked about the skin's hydration levels, and despite my skin hydration test results being in the normal range, I'm still a bit worried about the lack of ample moisture in my skin (40-90 is the normal range, my test result came out 47. <40 meant dehydration, while >90, overhydration. my number indicates that i'm 8 little steps away to skin dehydaration any minute).

Skin Hydration Tester. 0-40: Dehydrated; 40-90: Normal; 90 and up: Moist

THE PROBLEM WITH SKIN DEHYDRATION

...is that you begin to experience some or all the following on your skin: fine lines and wrinkles, roughness, lack of radiance and clarity, itching, flaking and scaling, and uncomfortable tightness.

Nobody needs to go through premature aging. All you need to do is identify what causes dehydration and match an antidote to each cause.

DAILY CONDITIONS THAT CAUSE SKIN DEHYDRATION

Whether you have oily or dry skin type, nobody's excused from skin dehydration. With the various conditions around us that can easily strip our skin off its moisture, no one's excused from not using a moisturizer. Let's look at the most common things that can dehydrate our skin:

Now that you have identified some of the common causes of skin dehydration, I bet you have means of addressing each of them. :) You may share tips that you swear by using the comment form.

SKINCARE MYTHS

The event was truly very enriching. We even busted some popular myths regarding skincare:

MYTH 1: Oily skin need not use moisturizers. Oiliness is all about OIL and moisture is all about hydration or WATER. Our skin has both of these components in it and it is vital that there is a balance between the two.

Putting on moisturizers DO NOT aggravate an oily-skin type. Rather, if you have oily skin and skip on moisturizers while exposing yourself to the numerous dehydrating conditions above, you'll oil up all the more because the lack of moisture signals the oil glands to produce more oil to compensate for the lack of water.

Moisturizers are a must even if you have oily skin. What you'll have to be keen on is the type of moisturizer that will not be too icky on your face (choose gel-type or water-based ones).

MYTH 2: Drinking 8 glasses of water a day (or even more, if you can) is a sure way of hydrating the skin. Nope, this isn't a foolproof way of getting your skin hydrated.The water you take in will first be utilized by the other (importantly functioning) body organs, and the skin, the largest organ in the body, is humble enough to receive it last. Topical hydration is still the best and surest way to ensure that your skin is not dehydrated.
  

A FOOLPROOF SKINCARE REGIMEN

And because I broke out real bad from my ex-HG Clinique DDMG (Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel), I'm in dire need of getting a good moisturizer. It's the best way to foolproof-ing anyone's skincare routine.

I'm currently using HHN Sunflower Beauty Oil mixed with my evening topicals, but I find that this product isn't the best bottle to use during the day. I've tried a couple of brands for everyday use but each one of them seem to be a bit on the heavy side for my sensitive and slowly exfoliating skin. 

I'm still on the hunt for the perfect day moisturizer so that my '47' skin hydration test result does not nosedive to a dehydrated level (less than 40) due to my prolonged exposure to airconditioning, coffee intake, sun exposure, mismanaging stressors and my lack of sleep!

After learning that my current fave, Clinique moisture surge is not enough as a moisturizer per se (it's more of a sleeping pack--- the ones you put on top of a moisturizer to make it work optimally), i'm hunting for a replacement to my Clinique moisturizing gel. Perhaps, Soap and Glory might help.
(photos and product info below collected from boots.com and soapandglory.com)

High-rating Soap and Glory moisturizers

Soap and Glory is a UK-based company that has become internationally popular for their fragrant, effective and relatively cheap skincare and makeup products. Not to mention the very girly packaging plus a pretty website with a vintage kick.

Photo Source

I'm currently eyeing four moisturizers. I need to zero-in on just ONE. Very, very difficult.

1. Soap & Glory Glow Job | Daily Radiance Moisturizing Lotion

Glow Job, 8.17GBP (~589PHP), 75mL

Product Promises:

An everyday glow-on moisture lotion with micro Bronzeburst™ beads built-in. The first formula of its kind, it’s fabulously fun to put on your face, and leaves you with a gorgeous, one-day only glow. Squeeze a pea-sized measure of Glow™ Job onto your fingertips, then rub together to release the bronze from inside the beads and blend. Apply to your face in upward circular motions then just get up and GLOW!

Active Ingredients:

Titanium Dioxide (CI77891), Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Dimethicone, Cellulose, Carbomer, Mannitol,Caprylyl Glycol, Methylparaben, Silica, Disodium Edta, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), Butylparaben, Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, Barium Sulfate, Lecithin, Ethylparaben, Biosaccharide Gum-1, PEG-8, Isobutylparaben, Propylparaben, Aroma / Flavor, Parfum (Fragrance), Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, PEG-75, Triethyl Citrate, Aqua (Water), Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Ascorbic Acid, Citric Acid, Mica, CI 77492 (Iron Oxides)

2. Soap & Glory Night In Shining Armour | Night Cream

Night in Shining Armour, 12.26GBP (~883PHP), 50mL

Product Promises:

An amazing gravity battling face cream with proven WRINKLE-REDUCING SUPERPEPTIDE COMPLEX™ with oxygen boosters and EFA antioxidants. Includes scientifically tested levels of PROVEN ANTIWRINKLE REDUCING SUPERPEPTIDES™ that are:

- Significantly wrinkle reducing (-44%)

- Elasticity increasing (+9%)

- Skin firming (+9%)

- Skin smoothness improving (+20%)

(with twice daily use over 2 months)

Active Ingredients:

Camelina Sativa Seed Oil, Octyldodecanol, Aqua (Water), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Cetyl Alcohol, Tetradecyloctadecyl Stearate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Stearate, Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Leaf Extract, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, PEG-100 Stearate, Polyacrylamide, Phenoxyethanol, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Methylparaben, Parfum (Fragrance), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Laureth-7, Tocopheryl Acetate, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Limonene, Dimethiconol, Ethylparaben, Tetrasodium EDTA, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Linalool, Citral, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Tocopherol, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, CI 15985 (Yellow 6), Retinyl Palmitate

3. Soap & Glory Clear Here | T-Zone Oil Control Daily Moisture Lotion

Clear Here, 8.17 GBP (~589php), 50mL

Product Promises:

Tired of clogged pores, shine, spots and blotches? Get your…. Clear Here™ T-Zone Oil Control Daily Facial Moisture Lotion. Cleverly formulated to help: Smooth & protect the skin, prevent blemishes, fight spot-causing bacteria, fight shine, reduce deep down pore clogging and shrink visible pore size.

Active Ingredients:

Parfum (Fragrance), Butylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin, Squalane, Nylon-12, Aqua (Water), C12-13 Alkyl Lactate, Sodium Polyacrylate, Phenoxyethanol, Fomes Officinalis (Mushroom) Extract, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Sodium Hydroxide, Acacia Senegal Gum, Salicylic Acid, Pyridoxine HCl, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Zinc PCA, Buteth-3, Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate, Limonene, Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Extract, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Tributyl Citrate, Amyl Cinnamal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, CI 42090 (Blue 1)

4. Soap & Glory Catch A Wrinkle In Time | Age-Avoiding Moisturizer

Catch A Wrinkle In Time, 10.21GBP (~735PHP), 50mL

Product Promises:

It is super lightweight but deep-sinking. A creme de les cremes. A moisturising day cream engineered with an unparalleled Swiss-developed anti-aging complex that blends natural sun filters, high performance hydrators and clinically proven collagen stimulating tri-peptides, to smooth away wrinkles, rejuvenate, firm and protect your skin. After user trial testing, we were inundated with reports of softer, smoother skin and visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

Active Ingredients:

Imperata Cylindrica Root Extract, C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butylene Glycol, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Dimethicone, Cetyl Alcohol, Biosaccharide Gum-4, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Carbomer, Phenyl Trimethicone, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hydroxide, Methylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Aqua (Water), Butylparaben, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan), Limonene, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethylparaben, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, PEG-8, Isobutylparaben, Propylparaben, Aroma (Flavor), Parfum (Fragrance), Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Linalool, BHT, Ascorbic Acid, Citric Acid, Titanium Dioxide, CI 19140 (Yellow 5), CI 16035 (Red 40)

Puns can be very interesting, eh? I love the product names, haha. I'd really want to give in to Soap & Glory's Catch a Wrinkle in Time since it has the best reviews. However, I plan to use a dimethicone-free moisturizer. And only Clear Here among the four is dimethicone-free.

It's a love-hate relationship with one of Clinique's famous products --- the Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. I've been using it for more than a year now and this is what I have to say:

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel, 2400php ($24 @ Clinique website)

What I love about it:

- easily absorbed by the skin, no sticky feeling!

- made my face more radiant and supple the next day

- allows makeup to glide smoothly on the skin

- the scent is not too strong

- i can mix it with my mineral powders to create a mineral creamy base

- good value for money since 1x pump can cover the entire face

- works like a primer (like Skinhour mattifying moisturizer) on cooler days

Uh-ohs:

- no SPF

- after 9 months, I started breaking out because of this; and so

the Antidote:

- use it every other night

- avoid using it under makeup if it's gonna be real humid 

I'm still using the dramatically different moisturizing gel right now.  When I broke out after the 9-month love affair, I totally stopped slathering it on for 2 weeks.  My skin got better but I noticed the significant dullness.  My skin also started to get a bit coarse.  That's when I resumed using it every other night (and I no longer moisturize in the morning) which brought back the radiance that I missed.

This would last me another 6 months with this kind of frequency of use.  I really don't know if it was a good thing I broke out (I get to prolong my supply and save some moolah!).  Nevertheless, I'm still sticking by Clinique because my combination-to-oily skin just can't get enough of the brightening effects of this moisturizing gel!

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My skincare regimen includes: pond's cold cream, kojic soap from Doc Six Foronda (my derma), clinique toner 3, retinoic acid 0.1% from derma and spot treatment using acne solution from my derma

Moisturizers are given 2-3 years before they expire.

It was love-at-first-slather.

I first used it on my elbow that was bound for a keloid scar. I got that wound from being dragged by my 9-month old pit who chased a ball while I was walking him (think: asphalted road kissing my skin. and i was too dumb not to let go of my pup's leash).

The wound I had was at its earliest stage of forming an ugly keloid when I used Revlon Aquamarine lotion on it. Thank God for friction massage plus Revlon Aquamarine's collagen-rich formulation, my wound skipped the trip bound to ugly keloidness (is there such a word?), and now, I can barely see the scar.

Revlon Aquamarine Body Lotion for Extra Dry Skin, 437 mL
Vitamin A and Collagen enriched
Purchased at Watson's (also availble in selected grocery marts), 140PHP (~ $3)

The Edge:

• cheaper than your Victoria's Secret, Calgon and B&BW haul

• softly scented; boyfie'll tell you, "ang bango mo naman!"

• love how easily it seeps through the skin! no greasy feel!

• it's a moisturizer and a keloid-buster in one (for keloids, use Revlon Aquamarine in conjunction with cross-fiber massage)
  

• skin gives a healthy glow after application

• stubborn and dry skin will truly be moisturized!

• a pea-size covers a big area because of its thick consistency. One big bottle lasts me three months daily use (AM and PM)
  

Uh-ohs:

• sooner or later, Revlon Aquamarine won't be available locally (my relatives in the US are having a hard time looking for this already. BTW, US stores sell this for a little over a dollar)
  

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ROYAL RATING: Spend-worthy? Absolutely! It should get an award. I'm giving it
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Slathering it on area B

You don't need to shell out a lot to get a superb body moisturizer. I say Revlon Aquamarine Lotion deserves to be tested. I've been using it for more than three years now since that fateful pulled-by-the-pup incident (he was technically a pup, he's just 9 months... weighing 27 kilos and with superb gameness). I sure hope you gals can try it out too and relate to the rave I'm doing on the web :)

What's your body lotion staple? Will you want to try Revlon Aquamarine out? Lemme know.

Royally yours, Bleak

It was only this year when I realized how a complete skin care system can turn your life 360. I'm nearing the dreaded 30 and I just can't forgive myself for not knowing something as important as this! Cleanse, tone and moisturize (C-T-M): three easy steps to gorgeous skin. Just this past month, I started to use real facial cleansers (and finally gave my regular soap a break from interacting with my zits), a toner, and a moisturizer.

In a week's time, I couldn't believe my eyes at the huge difference that the C-T-M method can do! I've grown to love every budding zit that sits on my face (I've had them since third grade), and I didn't know if I'd jump for joy to not see pimples lurking on my forehead, cheek and nose OR if I'd start musing where in the world my acne have gone to. *royal chuckle* Needless to say, I'm one happy (and aging) gal to have finally found the right road to good skin!

While it may be difficult to develop the discipline to religiously cleanse, tone and moisturize the face, the fruits of such labor can be among the most rewarding things a girl can ever have. I've always planned on skipping the ritual since I'd rather sleep right away after a night's hot bath. But I was able to manage to convince myself that this was a good skin regimen, after all, it was the only skin regimen I have.

If you're still not into this skin care system, know that every girl HAS TO CLEANSE, TONE, AND MOISTURIZE! Its coveted effects may not be as drastic as how fast I achieved them (I noticed the glow a few weeks after), but it will surely pay off in the long run... and you'll remember your Scorecard Princess for it!

Are you in a skin regimen already? At what age did you start it? Lemme know!

Royally yours, Bleak