Hi ladies!

I'm back with another skincare review, this time~ it's on the Membranous Jelly Masque by éPure and they are now available in packs rather than in a jar.

Developed by the renowned Dr Yulong Moy from USA, éPure™ Membranous Jelly Masque™ is the first-of-its-kind facial mask with ACF (Active Cellular Factor). This unique mask retains 70% more moisture than any other sheet mask, it forces the pores to fully absorb the nourishing ingredients while drawing out the impurities instantaneously. It also inhibits melanin synthesis, which lightens pigmentation, balances uneven skin tone, leaves your skin brighter and supple with dewy fresh vibrancy.

To Use:

Cleanse your face, apply toner and serum for better effects.
Use the spatula and apply the mask evenly to face and neck with a thickness of 3mm-5mm, and a thicker layer to the tip of the nose, T-zone and areas with pigmentation.
Leave it on for 20-30 minutes, then scrape off the mask with the spatula and rinse off thoroughly.

For the first month of using éPure, use it 3 times a week. After the first month of using éPure, cut down on the frequency to once OR twice a week depending on the results that you are after.

This mask can also be applied to the eye area to lighten dark eye circles and problem area.

VERDICT

Texture: thick gel

Smell: to me, this has the same scent as aloe vera gel

Ingredients:

Distilled water, Carbopol, Butylene Glycol, Hyaluronic acid, Jojoba leaf extract, Seaweed extract, Alpha Arbutin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Microcare MTI

Benefits:

• Replenishes the skin's moisture and minimizes the skin pores (stimulates the skin’s natural production of hyaluronic acid)
• Rich in vitamin A, D, E to smoothen the skin and gets rid of excessive dryness
• Treats allergic inflammation of the skin and treats sunburn marks and regulates melanogenesis
• High in antibacterial properties to detoxify the skin whilst promoting circulation
• Packed with high concentrations of minerals such as fluorine, magnesium, and calcium to maintain the skin's moisture balance

Cost: $49.90 for 5 (U.P. $59.90)

Product Rating: 8/10

Reduction in the depth of laugh line and skin looks less red

I like how this mask makes my skin feel and look more hydrated and plump, and brighter after use. I used it on my boyfriend to see if I could get a more obvious result, and I think it shows how plumped the "After" is.

Personally, I didn't find it difficult to apply as I'm a user of masks that requires me to use my fingers or a spatula to apply. That being said, I think the spatula given together with the mask could be of a better shape to aid application.

Upon application, I like how cooling it felt and I feel that it does have a calming property to it. It doesn't burn the skin like how some sheet masks do and doesn't sting when applied over open wounds (eg freshly popped pimples, although I don't suggest it... but I have itchy fingers).

white speaks & milky residue of the mask after scrapping

I would only suggest using this mask when you have the time, like the end of the day, to chill and pamper your skin because the benefits can be only be achieved if you leave it on long enough (i.e. 30mins).

Lastly, as for the claim of being able to "draw out impurities", there is some truth in that. However, it's more of hydrating and softening the top layer of the skin that helped in removing any excess dead skin cells to reveal a fairer skin and also encouraging dried up blackheads to drop out.

With consistent use, I would think that the results would be more obvious and overall, I think it's a decent mask to have as part of your skincare regime!

Have you tried this before?

Feel free to leave a comment down below to share with me your experience!

These masks can be purchased online at here!

Can you believe how fast this year has gone by?

In a few more months and I will be a year older, and now that I've reached the mid-20s mark... There are a few things that I wished I have done and one of them was that I should have used sunscreen!

As I was once an environmental educator who spent most of my time outdoors conducting nature trails, I know that I should have slathered on some sunscreen but let's be honest... In a humid climate like Singapore, sunscreens have a tendency of feeling sticky and greasy on the skin. Now, I have pigmentation, uneven skin tone and more wrinkles as a result of not using sunscreen.

If you are like me and have skipped using sunscreen for a reason like mine, I've got something to share with you. 

Bioré has introduced its complete range of new and enhanced sunscreen products, its enhanced UV Series could be your perfect shield against skin woes like sun spots, wrinkles and freckles caused by damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays. Along with this improvement, Bioré also launched its newest addition to the range, the Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel, which provides the highest level of UV protection from head to toe!  

It contains the breakthrough Aqua Micro Capsule a water capsule which breaks upon application on skin to release the UV protection agent while giving skin a cool and refreshed feeling. Unlike most sunscreens that have a higher SPF value which tends to compromise on the product texture, Bioré’s Aqua Rich Watery series retains its lightweight feel and at the same time provide maximum UV protection. The Aqua Rich Watery Gel is also infused with hyaluronic acid and citrus extract to keep skin hydrated and healthy. 

VERDICT  

Aqua Micro Capsule seen.

Texture: Like a light-weight moisturizer, leaving a slight velvety layer

Smell: Mild citrus scent

Benefits:

• Superior double UV block with enhanced SPF50+/PA++++
• Maximum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun
• Retains its light and watery texture that allows smooth application without a sticky feel
• Infused with hyaluronic acid & citrus extract to keep skin hydrated and fresh
• Suitable for application on face and body

Ingredients:

Cost: $18.90 for 90ml bottle
Available at all leading pharmacies, super & hyper markets, departmental stores, beauty stores and selected minimarts.

Product Rating: 7.5/10

I think it is wonderful that this sunscreen is multi-purpose, so all you need to bring out with you is just this one bottle for both your face and body. I tested it with water and noted that it is water-resistant too, so it is something that you can use for a day out on the beach.

This product holds true to its claim of not being sticky or greasy on the skin. It takes awhile to spread and for it to blend into the skin if you add too much at one go, so I would advise to start out with a little and add more if needed. That being said, do note that for a sunscreen to work, regardless of its SPF/PA coverage, you will need to apply a decent layer of it to protect your skin from harmful rays.

Personally, I'm not a fan of this product despite its texture and high coverage because of the ingredients used. I try to avoid sunscreen with chemical blockers because of the possible health issues it might impose.

But that being said~ using a sunscreen, any type of all, is still better than none!

Hi ladies, I'm back with more product reviews!

I'm sorry if I haven't been updating regularly... Work has been never-ending.

This is the first Sunday in a while that I can stay home and finish all my posts!

I was already feeling like it doesn't matter what day it is anymore because I'm always working.

Anyway, without further ado~
Here's my review of Biore Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover – the first makeup remover in jelly format.

The smooth serum –like texture spreads easily to remove makeup even waterproof mascara with less tugging and helps to cushion the skin from an otherwise harsh cleansing motion. Contains 40% moisturising essence, Aqua Jelly makeup remover nourishes and hydrates skin for a moist and dewy finish. Removing makeup has never been so easy.

How To Use:

Pump an appropriate amount (2-3 pumps) onto hands and spread evenly over face and eye area.

Massage gently to dissolve makeup.

Rinse thoroughly with water. It is not necessary to remove cleansing liquid with cotton pad or tissue. For best results, apply on dry face and hands. Do not use facial cotton pad or tissue.

Doesn't emulsify

Texture: A mix between gel & oil rather than jelly, does not emulsify when mixed with water like other oil cleanser.

Smell: Floral scent

Ingredients:
Water, Glycerin, Isopropyl Myristate, Butylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, PEG-12 Laurate, Sorbitol, Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate, Decyl Glucoside, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Alcohol, Fragrance, Potassium Hydroxide, Potassium Chloride.


Benefits:

• Gentle on skin and rinses off easily and quickly without any harsh tugging or pulling action on skin;
• High cleansing ability that dissolves and lifts off all traces of makeup effortlessly;
• Made with 40% more moisturizing essence nourishes and hydrates skin for a dewy moisturized finish;
• Lightweight formula leaves skin feeling refreshed, with no sticky or greasy after-feel. 
• Suitable for all skin types.

Cost: $24.90 for 230ml bottle
Available at all leading supermarkets, personal care stores and western pharmacies & departmental stores.

Product Rating: 8/10

I think it works pretty well at removing normal makeup only. For stubborn waterproof & smudge-proof makeup, I find that I need to repeat the process.

I did a little test to illustrate this on my hand with a waterproof mascara, waterproof and smudge-proof eyeliner and BB cream. For the both process, I focused on the top half of my hand and washed away with warm water. I only managed to successfully remove everything after the second wash.

I do agree that the formulation does minimize tugging and that there are no greasy after-feel once it's washed off.

But based on the ingredient used, there is a slight chance that it might cause clogged pores with repeated use and improper cleansing after use so please do wash this off properly and double cleanse after!

Hi everyone,

I'm sorry if I haven't been writing as much.

It's the festive season, and that means it's the peak period for me at work (= less sleep)...

which is why these days, I'm looking for products that can help me look less zombie-like.

I've been giving a range of masks from Faith In Face a test and it's been an interesting experience!

What is Faith In Face?

Faith in Face launched in 2012 by a multi-national team of young cosmetic experts from Korea, Britain and Canada after 3 years of research and development, and is now the Number 1 Hydrogel Mask Brand in Korea. 

What makes Faith In Face Masks different from other masks?

Faith in Face uses only organic and naturally derived extracts, such as vegetable collagen, essential oils, Vitamin E, and Hyaluronic Acid in their products. Specially formulated to be gentle on the skin while reducing the chances of allergic reactions, Faith In Face products are free of parabens and mineral oils, on top of being animal-friendly (no animal testing done).

Unlike regular microfiber and cotton sheet masks, Faith in Face’s hydrogel masks contain a high percentage of water soluble ingredients to deliver maximal hydration and superior skin rejuvenation. With a gentle formula that is suitable for sensitive skin, the hydrogel masks are also able to cool the skin, thanks to beta-glucans which rejuvenate stressed out skin.

Which masks did I test out?

Nourish Me

Nourish Me's special formulation of Ceramide 3 with Broccoli Extract and Olive Oil provides the ultimate nourishment for your skin. Ceramide 3 plays an important role in generating a protective layer for your skin and is one of the most important lipid composition of stratum corneum. Broccoli Extract contains Vitamins C, E & beta carotene which promotes maintenance of healthy skin and prevents UV damage while Olive Oil moisturizes and strengthens your skin. 

After Shower

Love the feeling of your fresh, moist and glowing skin right after a shower? AFTER SHOWER LOOK is here to give you that! A soothing and moisturizing mask, it contains the natural moisturizing ingredient, Sodium PCA that helps supply moisture to your skin. It also contains Hyaluronic Acid which has intense hydration and moisture retention capabilities. Lastly, Camelia Oil is present to lock the moisture into your skin and helps to soothe your skin.

Black & White

Want to achieve Audrey Hepburn’s beautifully flawless and luminous skin? You can also be your own film star with BLACK AND WHITE FILM STAR hydrogel mask! BLACK AND WHITE FLIM Star is a brightening mask that contains Arbutin and Niacinamide, a water soluble vitamin that has anti-ageing effects that improves and lightens your skin tone. It also contains Citrus Unshiu Pericarp extract that has excellent anti-oxidant effects and Green Tea extract which contains Vitamin C, Tocopherols and Polypenols that brighthen your skin!

How to use?

After cleansing, carefully remove the thinner protective film from both the top and bottom masks to expose the smooth surface, and apply the smooth side of the masks to your face. To ensure that I placed the right side (smooth surface) onto my skin, I press my fingernail into one side. If it creates a 'cut', it's the right side.

After 30 minutes, remove the mask and discard. Gently pat your face with fingertips to help the skin absorb the remaining essence.

Note: The mask has a smooth surface and textured surface. Applying the textured side on the face is the wrong side of the mask, and it may cause discomfort. If so, just peel the mask off and switch over to the smooth side.

VERDICT

Texture: Like jelly with a mesh cloth holding it together, highly saturated with essence. All 3 masks have the same texture.

Scent: Nourish Me smells sweet, where as Black & White and After Shower has the same smell as usual sheet mask... I don't really know how to explain this scent... and that's all I can smell with my flu. Sorry!

Benefits of Nourish Me:
Prevent moisture loss
Store the health of skin
Prevents UV damages
Moisturize and strengthen skin

Benefits of After Shower:
Soothing and moisturizing
Provides intense hydration and helps retain moisture

Benefits of After Shower:
Has anti-aging effects
Helps to improve and lighten skin tone
Contains antioxidants

Ingredients:

After Shower Ingredient List

Cost: $14.50 for a box of 3 masks

Product Rating: 8/10

I've got to say that I'm loving the texture of this mask, it comes in 2 pieces that helps to make it proportionately suitable for most face shape! Unlike facial sheet masks, there is no dripping of essence despite how saturated it is and it grabs onto my skin tightly (even better than a sheet one does).

My skin felt completely hydrated and smooth after use, but I didn't quite like how sticky the essence feels on my skin after, so I washed it off and completed my skincare routine with a moisturizer.

Besides the obvious hydrating boost, the only mask that left me impressed was the Black & White Film Star mask. I saw a slight brightening/lightening effect after 1 use the morning after, but I can't determine if it was entirely because of the mask or simply because I was getting my 8 hour rest...

Lastly, the other thing that left me wondering is the ingredients, it claims that it uses organic ingredients but it is not certified. I guess you can take it with a pinch of salt because certification is costly and I rather know that the cost of the mask is kept affordable without a certification than it being costly for that stamp of approval.

From left to right, after usage: After Shower, Nourish Me, Black & White Film Star

Where to get these masks?

Faith in Face Mask are available exclusively at Wastons!

There are a total of 5 types, with  'Miss Invisible Pore Hydrogel Mask' and 'Hold Me Tight' not reviewed in this post.

For more information, feel free to head over to Faith in Face Facebook Page here!

I'm back from my travels and it's all about product reviews now, but I promise to share more about my travel soon!

So before I was away, I was sent 2 body-care products to review from The Sample Store and they are from a German Brand, Esemtan. Now, when something skincare related from Germany enters through my door~ I sit up and have a closer look because I know that the Germans are really good at skincare stuff. They were the original creator of BB cream and I'm not talking about the yucky BB creams, I'm talking of the pure medical miracle stuff.

So anyway, I did my little research on the brand and it's interesting to note that even the hospitals here are using them. So, let's not delay any further and hope right into my review!

Esemtan Wash Lotion

Esemtan Wash Lotion is a gentle lathering, mildly soothing-scent opalescent green coloured wash. It is suitable for every use and everyone - for the whole body, face and hair, for all skin types, for the skin of babies and old people. Consisting of Allantoin, Esemtan Wash Lotion is pH neutral for the skin and soap free, and suitable for sensitive and stressed skin. 

This wash has also passed strict skin sensitivity tests and was approved by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) that is dedicated to the safe use of fragrant chemicals, and essential oils in perfume and skincare. 

How To Use:

Shower: Can be used like soap or commercial shower lotions while taking shower 

Hand washing: Approx. 2-3ml Esemtan wash lotion to one palm, froth it by adding some water. Wash thoroughly, rinse & dry. 

Suitable for: All skin types, especially dehydrated, dry, & sensitive skin 

VERDICT

Texture: Foams up easily without stripping too much, leaves skin feeling cleansed but not tight or squeaky.

Scent: Smells like a men's perfume... I can't put a finger on it but it's quite pleasant.

Benefits:

• For all skin types ,including baby & elderly skin.
• Can be used on Hair, Face and Body 
• Soap-free
• pH neutral for skin
• With mild fragrance and colouring with good skin tolerability
• Contains Allantoin that reduces skin irritation and support skin’s natural moisture.

Ingredients:
Pure Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Lauryl Glucoside, Glycol Distearate, Stearamide MEA, Cocamide DEA, Allantoin, Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, CI 42090, CI 47005, Benzyl Salicylate and Hexyl Cinnamal.

Cost: $19.75/500ml, $35.30/1L

Product Rating: 8/10

pH 6

I usually judge a product poorly when I see SLS in the ingredient list, but I dig a little deeper and overall, all the other ingredients aren't that bad. As for the claim that this wash is pH neutral for skin... I did a quick pH test and the result is pH6, so what do you know~ This wash is indeed pH neutral for the skin. In fact, it's the ideal pH level for the skin because it needs to be slightly acidic to protect against bacteria and germs. However, I would still caution people with extra sensitive skin to do a patch test before using this wash.

Esemtan Skin Balm

Esemtan Skin Balm provides the skin with oil and moisture, made suitable for daily hand and body care for all skin types.This balm penetrates deeply into the skin with oil-in water emulsion, and protects and prevents the skin from drying. Dermatologically tested to reduce skin irritation and itch, Esemtan Skin Balm also comes with mild soothing fragrance, to allow users with dry & sensitive skin to enjoy a soothing touch of fragrance.

 How To Use:

Apply to skin and rub in gently. Recommended to use daily, morning and evening after each wash. 

Suitable for: All skin types, especially dehydrated, dry, & sensitive skin 

VERDICT

Texture: Moisturizing without feeling sticky, takes a while to be absorbed.

Scent: Smells very similar to baby powder to me

Ingredients:
Aqua, Paraffinum Liquidum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Urea, Ceteareth-25, Ceteareth-6, Stearylalcohol, Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Benzyl Benzoate, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citronellol, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, Linalool

Cost: $20/500ml

Product Rating: 6/10

Hmm, this is a tricky one because of the ingredients used. I see parabens and that raises my eyebrow, but on the other hand, it does seem to keep my skin moisturized. I'm not trained in all of this, my knowledge is based off google and there are contrasting reports on the various parabens and even Paraffinum Liquidum. So, use this Skin Balm at your own will and choice but I would suggest keeping and healing your skin the good old fashion way, jojoba oil. 

Where To Buy:

 Guardian, Unity, Watsons, Independent pharmacy (Pink beauty, Beauty essential), NHG