Aqua Peel Facial @ SkinLab Medical Spa

A lovely invite from SkinLab Medical Spa (thru' Hazel) to review one of their latest technologies - Aqua Peel Facial. This new technology aims to help achieve fairer, brighter & smoother skin.

Sounds intriguing?

What Is Aqua Peel Technology?

The Aqua ST system: The newest skin treatment that provides both non-invasive exfoliation and delivery of topical solutions to safely and painlessly cleanse, exfoliate, extract and hydrate the skin. This allows patients to achieve optimum results on an accelerated basis without the complications and discomfort usually associated with invasive procedures. In addition, the Aqua ST is unique because it does not use crystals or other abrasive particles that can irritate the skin.

 

Features:

• Simultaneous exfoliation and topical infusion.
• A selection of topical solutions specific to the patient's skin condition.
• 3 Spiral treatment tips for optimal exposure and absorption of topical solutions.
• LED display for precise vacuum and flow settings.

 

Advantages:

• Provide painless, soothing treatment.
• Allows an immediate return to normal activities (no downtime).
• Eliminates the risk and health concerns of aluminum-based crystals associated with particulate abrasion.
• Visible results after first treatment. Lasting and more significant results will be seen after 4 to 6 treatments spaced 7 to 10 days apart.
• Unique Spiral Tip allows maximise infusion with minimum wastage.

 

Uses:

• Acne problems
• Congestion
• Blemishes
• Dull and Aging Skin
• Dehydration
• Fine lines
• Sensitive Skin

(I have all of the above skin problems.. =.=)

 

Was brought into this cozy room for the facial treat.

Sans makeup face. Yups, I didn't bother to put any makeup though my face looks absolutely horrid. I did put sunblock though.

Changed into the provided facial gown.

 

The facial therapist started off by deep cleansing my face with The Aqua ST AS (All-Skin) Solution, softening sebum and impurities to aid in extractions. It assists in dislodging dead cells for exfoliation and provides residual hydration that aids in firming and smoothing fine lines.

Extraction time. I was well aware that my face was pretty congested, with blackheads/whiteheads/acnes. The facial therapist was so meticulous in extracting those unwanted bits. No doubt it is a painful process, I braved thru' it. All I want is better complexion. Nothing else matters. After the 15min ordeal, she applied rosewater liberally on my face to soothe the skin. So relaxing. Ahh I'm in love with the scent!

She recommended SA - The Aqua ST SA (Salicylic Acid) Solution for my face, which is specially formulated for oily and acne prone skin. Its active ingredients include Pentylene Glycol and Spirea Ulmaria Extract to penetrate the pores and dislodge dead cells for exfoliation. Using a suction tube with a unique spiral tip, The Aqua ST SA (Salicylic Acid) Solution was infused into my skin. Starts from the chin to the jaw, slowly working upwards & outwards. According to the facial therapist, this can help slim the face!

Mask-ing time. She applied a thick layer of lemon mask to combat acne. So cooling! While having the mask on, she gave me a really good neck and shoulder massage. Thumbs up!

Last but not least, she applied AO - The Aqua ST AO (Anti-Oxidant) Solution, on my skin after cleansing off the mask and toning my face. Not forgetting eye serum and sunblock. AO - The Aqua ST AO (Anti-Oxidant) Solution is formulated with stabilized Vitamins A, E & White Tea Extract to combat free radicals and environmental damage to the skin cells.

My face after the Aqua Peel Facial. I was surprised that I didn't fall asleep (which I normally will). Ignoring the reddish bits, my face was noticably more radiant and my skintone was more even. I love the fact that Aqua Peel Facial isn't painful at all (except the extraction part). I thought I would end up with peeling skin after the treatment. My fears were clearly unfounded. The results were very lasting, more than a week definitely. I could see a significant improvement in my complexion after doing this Aqua Peel Facial. My skin literally glows from within. Much lesser imperfections of coz. I'm in awe.

Nowadays, I'm more readily to face the world with my naked face.. :p

The session ends with a cup of hot tea.

My readers get to enjoy:

• 30min SkinLab  Aqua Peel : *$38 (no mask)
• 90min SkinLab Aqua Peel : *$98 (mask, light extraction, and light face massage)

Valid till 31 August 2011 & for 1st-time customers only. Please quote Verlyn Hanru when making an appointment to enjoy the promo.

 

SkinLab Medical Spa is conveniently located at Wheelock Place #04-04. Call 6235 3246 to book now!

Chanel Illusion d’Ombre Long-Wear Luminous Eyeshadow 83 Illusoire

Deceptive simplicity. That's Chanel.

Fall 2011 Collection Illusions D'Ombres De Chanel. I'm not a nail polish fiend. Naturally, the highlight for this collection will be the Chanel Illusion d’Ombre Long-Wear Luminous Eyeshadow (comes in 6 shades).

“This intensely shimmering long-wear eyeshadow offers true versatility. An innovative gel texture that is both soft and cushiony allows it to be worn as eyeshadow or eyeliner. Includes a specially designed shadow/liner brush, developed specifically for this unique formula.”

(*Credits to Chanel Makeup website for the unmarked images and info.)

 

Let's focus on the product itself for now, shall we?

Retails at SGD$52 (4g).

Chanel Illusion d’Ombre Long-Wear Luminous Eyeshadow 83 Illusoire, is a dark smoky taupe mauve with reflective micro-shimmers and metallic sheen.

It has a mousse-like texture, and blends out like a dream. The finish is somewhat frosty. This is a heavy swatch. A little goes a long way.

Under strong sunlight, it is such a dazzling beauty of its own! Just look at the sparkling bits!

★★★ Sparkle like stars in the night. ★★★

Well pigmented and easy to apply. Illusoire is truly a gorgeous shade that is hard to miss out!

Now, I'm lemming for Fantasme & Epatant.. Well, it ain't limited edition.. That means I can slowly collect! :p

That's all for now. Thanks for reading!

LOTD: Blacquoise

When Black meets Turquoise - Blacquoise.

Face:

• Kanebo Freshel White C BB Cream
• Tony & Tina Herbal Environmental Protector Pressed Powder (Translucent)
• Majolica Majorca Puff de Cheek OR302 Apricot Macaroon
  

 

Eyes:

• Majolica Majorca Customize Sword Cut BR771
  
• KATE Eyebrow Color LB-1
• Stage Kohl Pencil 01 Karma Khol
  
• K-Palette Real Lasting 24h Eyeliner (Super Black)
• Holika Holika Wonder Drawing Gel Liner 04
  
• Kiss Me Heroine Make Volume & Curl Mascara
  
• BoBo summer gradually compact

 

Hada Labo: Are you using it correctly?

(*Credits to Hada Labo Sg FB Fanpage for the above image and info.)

Review: Sana Hadanomy Collagen Mask

I purchased this box of Sana Hadanomy Collagen Mask sometime ago at Sasa store. Retails at $20.90 for 4 pcs. Rather pricey, I would say. On Sasa.com, it's only selling at US$8.80! So over-priced uh.

Sana Hadanomy Collagen Mask is a collagen jelly rich mask. It is an elastic cotton mask sheet which fits the facial contour snugly for face lifting results. The combination of micro-collagen (1000mg), hyaluronic acid, acerola extract & honey provides instant moisture boost to the skin. No colorant, no mineral oil. Non-comedogenic-tested.

Here's how the mask looks like. Different from the ones I used before.

HOW TO USE?:

• After cleansing, fit top mask on forehead to eyehole and gently tear off joined cheek part on both sides.
• Lightly pull each side of bottom mask upward to lap on the top. Make sure the mask adhere to the face.
• Press and melt essence into the skin with your palms.
• Leave on for 3-10mins. No need to rinse.

Recommended for use once or twice a week.

Suitable for all skin type/dry & delicate skin. Not recommended for acne prone skin type though.

The collagen jelly is more of a thick liquid texture, which doesn't feel sticky to touch.

FYI, each mask contains 27ml of essence goodness!

Review:

This Sana Hadanomy Collagen Mask contains generous amount of essence. It is dripping wet when removed from the sachet. There's still alot of essence left, which I apply on my super dry legs. As you can see, the mask design is really weird and the mask keeps dropping.. =.= I had to tilt my head slightly backwards, to prevent the mask from dropping. Can they pls change the awful mask design?? I reckon ear hooks will be much better.

While having the mask on, I pat my face as stated in the instructions. After 10mins, I remove the mask and it is still pretty wet! Then, I promptly pat my face for the essence to be fully absorbed into skin. It doesn't take long for the essence to be absorbed into skin and there's no sticky feeling. My face feels uber hydrated and radiant after using this wonderful mask! AND, my skin feels so soft and smooth to touch! The results ain't temporary. My face is still dewy-looking the next few days! However, there isn't any firming effect on my face.

All in all, this is a highly recommended mask for that much needed moisture boost! A super-hydrating mask which has a pleasant floral scent. So soothing and relaxing! No doubt, this has become 1 of my favorite mask sheets! I'm definitely getting it from Sasa.com next time!

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ (5/5)

 

Thanks for reading! Hope this review helps.

LAUNCHED! beautyblender, the ultimate make-up sponge applicator

beautyblender, the ultimate make-up sponge applicator from USA. Celebrities like Avril Lavigne, Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Katie Perry are using it.

(Extracted from Beauty Carousel website):

"This elliptical shape was specially designed to allow access to hard-to-reach contour face areas with stunning ease, and its lack of edges eliminates streaks, allowing for a perfect and professional makeup application every time. Its elegant suede texture caresses the skin for an undetectable, natural finish.

You will discover your Beautyblender works even better when it is slightly damp. The moisture causes the sponge to expand and get even softer, creating the smoothest application of makeup you have ever seen.

It is recommended that you clean your Beautyblender with Blendercleanser for the sponge stay clean and last longer. With proper care, your Beautyblender will last 4 to 6 months.

Beautyblender is latex free, non-allergenic and odour-free.

Beautyblender can be used with all types of makeup including foundation, loose powder, mineral makeup, eyeshadow and even tanning lotion!"

 

Achieve flawlessly smooth make-up with this 'celebrity' make-up sponge!

 

Retails at $28.90. Available at BHG Bugis & Clementi outlets (aLT Beauty section) from 22 July onwards.

For more info and latest updates, CLICK HERE.

 

(*Credits to Japalang Pte Ltd FB Fanpage for the above images and info.)

Sponsored Review: Hada Labo Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion

Introducing Hada Labo’s latest Lifting & Firming Range with 3 premium and potent ingredients: Vitamin A Retinol, Hydrolyzed Collagen and Hada Labo’s signature ingredient, Super Hyaluronic Acid (SHA), to restore youthful bounciness for your skin.

Hada Labo’s Lifting & Firming Range stays true to its PERFECT X SIMPLE brand philosophy ­‐ using only the finest and purest ingredients without unnecessary additives, colorant, alcohol, fragrances and mineral oils.

There are 5 products in the new range:

• Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion (170ml) - S$25.90
• Retinol Lifting + Firming Cream (50g) - S$28.90
• Retinol Lifting + Firming Essence (30g) - S$34.90
• Retinol Lifting + Firming Milk (140ml) - S$25.90
• Retinol Lifting + Firming Mask (20ml x 4 sheets)- S$23.90

 

I was provided with Hada Labo Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion to review by Hada Labo Sg/The Sample Store.

KEY INGREDIENTS:

• Retinol Vitamin A - helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Collagen - improve skin's elasticity for firmer and more lifted skin
• Super Hyaluronic Acid - instantly locks-in moisture to hydrate intensely, keeping skin soft and significantly smooth

 

*Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A which is beneficial for a youthful looking skin.

It was hard not to notice the fiery red packaging at Watsons stores. Very attention-seeking indeed (in a good way). This new Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion ($25.90) costs slightly higher than their best-selling Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturising Lotion ($22.90). Still an affordable anti-aging skincare product, I would say.

The texture of this Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion is slightly thicker as compared to Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturising Lotion. The color of the lotion is slightly cloudy yellowish.

A photo of my forehead, after applying Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion for the 1st time (30th June 2011).

 

How I apply?

After cleansing and toning, I pour 3 drops of Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion on palms and gently pat onto skin until thoroughly absorbed. Then my usual skincare follows.

My initial thoughts:

I kinda like this Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion. It feels slightly sticky at 1st, but the stickiness feeling is gone after 5 mins or so. Though it takes a fair bit of time for the lotion to be fully absorbed into skin, my skin feels really soft and supple after which.

Hmm.. So, what took me so long to post up this review?

 

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Taken before using Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion (taken with camera - with flash).

 

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After 2 days of use (taken with iPhone).

This is the reason why I decided to stop using Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion and go back to basic skincare routine for the time being.

As seen from the photo, the red bump is considerably big. AND, this is just part of my horrible skin state (!!), which left me in a moody state for weeks. I was wondering what exactly cause my skin to react so drastically in just 2 days?

Is the Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion too rich for me? Is it due to my late nights? Is it due to my eating habits? Is it due to some other skincare ingredients etc?

Here's my slightly better skin condition, 1 week after facial treatment at SPA-lon.

 

1 week ago, I started using the lotion (again) after another facial treatment (to be posted soon).

A photo of my forehead.

A photo of my face after applying Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion. My skin condition is much better now, though there're still visible scar marks.

 

My Review:

After using Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion for 1 week, I'm glad that my skin has not reacted adversely so far. In fact, I notice a slight improvement in the appearance of fine lines and firming of skin (as shown from the photos). The lotion does hydrate my skin pretty well. My skin feels really soft, supple and revitalized (as stated). The most significant change so far is my skin radiance; it is literally glowing from within! My pores have shrunken in size too. YES, I'm lovin' this lotion so far! A highly recommended product!

Thanks Hada Labo Sg & TSS for the sponsorship!

 

Hada Labo is exclusively available at all Watsons stores.

For more info and latest updates -> CLICK HERE

Lancôme Hypnôse Precious Cells Mascara Launch & Review Time!

Early last week, I had the privilege of attending Lancôme Hypnôse Precious Cells Mascara mini launch event, many thanks to Sharon's extended invitation. I was super excited about this event, as I'm very much a self-confessed mascara addict! And, Lancôme mascaras never fail to impress (at least to me).

The primary focus was on Lancôme Hypnôse Precious Cells Mascara, while we had the chance to try out Lancôme Ombre Absolue Impact 3D Eyeshadow Palette range

Yummy sandwiches! :d~

Here's Celine, giving us the insight on Lancôme Hypnôse Precious Cells Mascara.

I think she's really pretty, don't ya think so? (:

Retails at $50. Available at all leading departmental stores.

Lancôme Hypnôse Precious Cells is the 1st mascara formula based on stem cell research.

A mascara which activates an immediate potential of lash regeneration.

Lash-by-lash volume and spectacular length, achieve visibly denser lashes for Asian eyelashes!

 

KEY INGREDIENTS:

• Lash Densifier Complex consists mainly of a precious plant cell extract, Malus domestica - already present in the cream formula of Absolue Precious Cells – which is capable of restoring the environment of stem cells in the lashes within the follicle.
• Madecassoside is a fortifying ingredient that is used to strengthen and thicken the hair, commonly used in hair-loss products. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to absorb micro-irritation so as to extend the life of lash follicles.
• Arginine, a type of amino acid known of its nourishing properties, can help to stimulate micro-circulation of nutrients within the follicle so as to re-densify lash fibres.
• Hyaluronic Acid also present to give an instant plumping effect for a lash by lash, voluptuous curve.

 

How to apply: Place the brush on the lash fringe. Let the flat side of the brush glide over the lashes from root to tip in a zigzag movement. 
After 5 seconds, reapply to boost the volume result.

A high-tech brush for an ideal lash-by-lash volume.

Designed exclusively for Asian lashes, a unique helix-shaped structure which has two flat sections to generously capture the formula and bathe lashes in its fortifying virtues; and two structured ridges for optimal lash fringe definition, magnified volume and spectacular lengthening.

Perfectly coated from root to tip, lashes are immediately amplified and separated for maximum volume at the lash fringe.

For flawless application, position the helix-shaped brush with the lash fringe, moving from the roots to the tips for perfectly separated, amplified lashes.

A comparison between Virtuôse & Lancôme Hypnôse Precious Cells.

Here's the goodie bag (to be unveiled later).. :D

 

 

Contrary to belief, Lancôme's eyeshadow palette are judged as the boring neutral and smokey colors. That's not exactly true. I've the Lancôme Color Focus Palette 4 Ombres in 100 OZ which was a favorite of mine years back.

I'll try to find it and take a photo of it. Time to re-organize my makeup stash! :x

 

Lancôme Ombre Absolue Impact 3D

This new all-in-one palette from Lancôme, comes with ultra-smooth and creamy powder combined with sparkles to create a range of makeup looks with intense luminousity.

Create a multi-dimensional captivating gaze to reveal wide expressive eyes using the S-way application with this 5-shade palette.

Simply layer shades one by one to add depth to eyelids for a three-dimensional look.

 

NEW COLORS!

B10 Voute du Ciel

The eyeshadows are on the sheer side, which I think an eye primer is essential to bring out the colors (if you prefer stronger vibrant colors). I particularly like the liner shade which is a pretty dark blue with micro-shimmers.

A30 Papillon Violette

This is a gorgeous purple palette! I like the violet color (right in the middle) as well as the liner shade (dark purple with micro-shimmers).

 

OTHER COLORS!

I also noticed that the liner shades for the new colors are more smooth in texture whereas the "not-so-new" ones are more powdery (with the exception of green one).

My favorites? Purple-Green-Blue!

 

 

Makeup demo by Sharon (Lancôme Makeup Artist).

The main products she used:

• Lancôme Hypnôse Precious Cells Mascara
• Lancôme Ombre Absolue Impact 3D (A30 Papillon Violette)
  

 

Charmaine's half-face makeup done.

Makeover done in a jiffy!

More of a day-look.

 

The goodie bag!

• Retail size: Lancôme Hypnôse Precious Cells Mascara
• Deluxe-sized samples: Lancôme Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover, Lancôme Génifique Youth Activator, Lancôme Génifique Yeux Youth Activating Eye Concentrate

 

This mini version of Lancôme Génifique Youth Activator is SO CUTE! It even comes with a dropper applicator.

My reward for answering question.. :p

• Lancôme Blanc Expert Ultimate Whitening Purifying Foam (deluxe sample)
• Lancôme Color Fever Gloss #306 Charming Pink
• Lancôme Miracle EDP (vial spray sample)

 

 

On the event day itself, I did try out the Lancôme Hypnôse Precious Cells Mascara in a haste.

I applied 2 coats of mascara on my top lashes, without curling 'em prior the application. The mascara does help to curl and lengthen my lashes naturally.

My lashes are not THAT volumized as seen from the photos above. It is a true black mascara which I really like (based on 1st impression).

 

 

My 2nd time using the mascara. This time, I applied 3 coats and curled my lashes prior application.

I place the brush on my lash fringe, slowly wriggling upwards and outwards for "fanned out" lashes. This zig-zag motion can help to deposit more mascara on your lashes and separate 'em beautifully. To help the curls hold better, stop the brush at the tip of lash for few secs when doing the zig-zag motion.

I find that it is good for defining the bottom lashes.

It is very easy to remove. Just warm water will do!

 

LIKES:

• long-lasting & smudge-resistant
• lengthens & defines lashes well
• true black color
• easy to remove
• dries fast and doesn't flake
• no weird scent

 

DISLIKES:

• slightly clumpy
• the bristles are kinda pokey on the eyes

 

IMO, it's great at lengthening and defining the lashes effortlessly. Good for day use. If you love natural-looking lashes, this is definitely THE ONE.

If you love fuller dramatic lashes, this doesn't cut it. Well, a lash primer might just do the trick.

 

 

"Confessions of Mascara Addicts" contest!

Just need to click LIKE Lancôme FB Fanpage then CLICK HERE to read my confessions & LIKE my photo. Thanks in advance!