Tag Archives: Singapore Beauty Blogger

Summer Indulgence with Aqualabel, Senka & Tsubaki @ Coastes Sentosa

June 28, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Hi Lovelies! <3

I hope you’ve been enjoying your weekend thus far, because I definitely am! 🙂

We’re in the midst of summer, have you been or made plans to the beach?

Ever worried about what protection you need under the summer sun? Fret not because today I have something to recommend you. 😉

A while back I was invited to Summer Indulgence event at Coastes Sentosa featuring Aqualabel, Senka and Tsubaki brands.

The invite is the cutest!

A handy guide to where Coastes is located at!

Simply gorgeous lantern style lighting. No filters or editing required!

The night view where one’s bound to fall in love with…

And the launch begins!

Tsubaki’s Head Spa In-bath range, including newly introduced Head Spa Sparking Serum.

Senka’s New Mineral Essence UV.

Aqualabel Whitening Jelly Essence

Game booths!

How many functions are there in Whitening Jelly Essence?

1. Lotion
2. Emulsion
3. Serum
4. Astrigent

More about these later in info. and review!

Gorgeous Mizuhara Kiko, top Japanese model also rumoured to be G-Dragon’s gf.

How many bubbles can you pop under a minute?
Well after this game I knew I apparently can’t win fastest fingers! >.<

Photos with Raine & Zhi Ting!

Review time~

Senka Mineral Essence UV, Tsubaki Head Spa & Aqualabel Whitening Jelly Essence

Starting off my review with Aqualabel’s Whitening Jelly Essence

As mentioned above, this product has 4 functions:

1. Lotion; blends perfectly into skin as dewy essence turns into lotion.
2. Emulsion; Double Hyaluronic Acid permeates, fills and retains in the stratum comeum, achieving moist, smooth skin.
3. Serum; whitening ingredient m-tranexamic acid inhibits & prevents dark spot formation.
4. Astrigent; minimizes pores that tends to dilate or sag.

The jelly consistency of Aqualabel Whitening Jelly Essence.

When gently spread across the skin. Shows strong signs of hydration that doesn’t easily fully permeate the skin, requires slight massage for it to be fully absorbed.

Skin after product is fully absorbed, flushed and hydrated.

I’ve been using this product for a while now, replacing it with my moisturizing(emulsion) and using it after my lotion. The texture is just nice as my moisturizer replacement and I really like the super hydrating effect of this product. You should know by now that I am a huge fan of Hyaluronic Acid, its one ingredient often found in products I review which I rave above, it locks in 1000x (some sources say 2000x) its own weight in water, so when the product claims Double Hydraluronic acid, I’m like, does your skin need that much water, or more like can our skin really hold that much water. Nonetheless its a product I’m enjoying for sure! A tip I have is to apply this on your lips to prime it like a lip essence before applying on lipstick.

Retails $29.90 exclusively at selected Watsons stores.

Senka Mineral Essence UV

Made with 100% mineral water with strong UV protection and anti-aging care.

SPF50+ PA++++; strong protection against UVA and UVB rays to prevent formation of dark spots and freckles.
Anti aging care; contains Coenzyme Q10 and Hyaluronic Acid to keep skin looking youthful, resilient and firm.
Made with 100% Mineral Water; non greasy and spreads on smoothly like an essence, leaves a silky smooth finish with no white residue.
Resistence to sweat and sebum
Pre makeup base for smoother application of foundation
Easily removed with normal cleanser
Fragrance free, no mineral oil, no artificial colours and dermatologist tested.

Retails $17.90 (50g) exclusively at selected Watsons stores.

Senka’s Mineral Essence UV, lightly yellow tinted.

Spreads smoothly and leaves no residue. When I apply it on my face it leaves a powder smooth (versus silky smooth as marketed) finishing which I find remarkable and also enjoy the texture!

On days when I want less coverage I just leave home with this as my make up base:

Last but not the least:

Tsubaki’s Head Spa

Treats the scalp for beautiful, lustrous and bouncy hair with volume from roots.

Leave in scalp essence that delivers a range of Head Spa effects – from moisturizing, softening to stimulating blood circulation for a healthy and moisturized scalp. Enhances hair shine.
Contains sparkling bubbles to give a cooling sensation and stimulate blood circulation at the same time.
Non drip formula with no sticky after-feel.
Relaxing aroma that eases both mental and physical stress.

Contains Natural Essential Oil Blend, Camellia Flower Extract & selected Camellia Oil:
– anti inflammatory effects, promotes scalp health for growth of firm and supple hair
– repairs hair cuticle
smoothes and softens hair fibre whch allows light to reflect beautifully

Enjoy salon like treatment at your own comfort

Directions for use:

1. Shake the bottle horizontally 4-5 times.
2. Position the nozzle upright about 2 cm away from cleansed scalp
3. Spray over 8-10 spots onto your scalp in a single session, 1 sec per spray.
4. Gently press onto the spots with your palms until the sparking popping sound disappears.
5. Massage your scalp lightly and relax with the aromatic scent.

Spray nozzle Recommended to spray 2 cm away. Product is colourless and has a slightly greasy feel (due to the natural oils good for the hair) and a wonderfully relaxing floral scent! This product is recommended to use at night and I strongly recommending this for use in pairs, with your mum, sister or partner cause it’s more fun and relaxing to do it for someone else and vs versa. 😉

Retails $18.90,130g at selected Watsons stores.

For more information and updates follow the brands on their FB here:

Senka SG FB

Beat the sun with SENKA sunscreen, with strong UV protection. Made with 100% Mineral water for easy application and removal. Get $2 off Mineral Pure, Perfect & Essence UV Sunscreen. Info from Senka SG FB.

Aqualabel SG FB

Your skin deserves great protection and nourishment. AQUALABEL products are specially designed to provide complete protection for your skin. Get $5 off every 2nd purchase of these AQUALABEL products! Info. from Aqualabel SG FB.

Tsubaki SG FB

Purchase a Head Spa Sparkling Serum and redeem the Head Spa Shampoo & Conditioner Trial Pack to complete your total Head Spa experience today, till 23 July, info. from Tsubaki SG FB:
Desktop/Laptop Users: http://goo.gl/FD7pq6
Mobile Users: http://goo.gl/NSYTM3

Thank you to the brands and White Space PR for the invite!

Thank you for reading!

Ena

Beauty, Lifestyle

Radiant Skin with EcoBeau Specialist Skin Care

June 24, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Hi Lovelies! <3

Do you have sensitive and acne prone skin and looking for a safe cleanser and skincare regime?

In this post I’m reviewing EcoBeau’s skincare set which I’ve used for the last 2-3 weeks. And I’m happy to report what’s good. 😉

Introduction of EcoBeau.

Info. from TheOrangeCo.com.

Started by Professor Choi from Kwangwoon University (Korea) and co-developed with University of Toledo (Ohio), Ecobeau is absolutely free from synthetic preservatives such as parabens and phenoxyethanol. The reference to “alcohol” on our labels refers to Cetyl alcohol, which is totally different from the harmful alcohols commonly added to skin care products. Cetyl alcohol is extracted from coconut oil and acts as a gentle and nourishing binder for the water and oil parts of our formulation.

At Ecobeau, we stand by our strong belief in using only natural herb-medicine extract and loess. Antimicrobial, nutritive and hydrating extract of medicinal herb keeps skin-mite’s activity under control while Loess effect derived from far infrared rays and anion of loess cleans, soothes & supplies abundant nutrition deep into the skin.

Ecobeau’s antimicrobial and anti-aging properties help to stimulate skin cell’s regenerating system. It may not show immediate results as synthetic and harsh skincare products out in the market which many a times only provide temporary efficacy. Its antioxidant extract from herb medicine diminishes wrinkles and acts as natural source of whitening. Continuous use of Ecobeau line will give you bright, moist, smooth, resilient and clear lustrous skin. Ecobeau was exclusively distributed by specialist skin care centers in Korea. Now launched at www.TheOrangeCo.com. Enjoy natural rejuvenating skin treatment at home, at a fraction of cost charged by the luxury skin salons.

Simply Natural and Restorative for the Skin.
Safe & Effective! For All Skin Types including Sensitive and Acne Skin

Free from alcohol, synthetic preservatives, parabens, sulfates, paraffin wax, petroleum, mineral oils, gluten and artificial colorants.
No Synthetic Preservatives. No Alcohol. No Parabens.

Is it really all as good as it sounds? Thanks to TheOrangeCo, I’ve had the chance to put the products to test. I was sent products good for Hydrating, Whitening & Oily T-zone. 🙂

A sweet personal note from June of TheOrangeCo.

EcoBeau products, very clinical packaging, practical and nothing fancy.

Introduction of TheOrangeCo.com.

Info from their homepage.

TheOrangeCo.com houses top selling brands of skin care and BB cream (blemish balm) for customers to shop comfortably online.

Customers can choose from popular Korean brands such as Skin79, Dr. Jart+, Laneige, Ecobeau and some of the hottest blemish balm (BB cream), collagen, Q10, whitening and anti-aging beauty products at discounts. Our online prices are predominately 30-70% cheaper than listed prices at major stores. That’s because we only operate online and do not pay notoriously high rental for physical stores, and therefore able to pass considerable cost savings to consumers.

Get EcoBeau Skincare at Special Introductory Prices.
Free Ecobeau 3pc Travel Kit with minimum purchase of $60 (any brands). 🙂
Also includes rave reviews from various online sites and The Business Times.

Write up for EcoBeau Loess Water Cleanser, EcoBeau Control Skin (Toner), EcoBeau Control Essence, EcoBeau Control Lotion, EcoBeau Nutritive Cream and EcoBeau Eye Cream.

The cute travel set that I also received. Love the candy-like striped zip lock bags.

Travel set here includes (Top Left, Clockwise): EcoBeau Natural Loess Nutritive Mask, EcoBeau Natural Eye Cream, EcoBeau Natural Dark Spot Serum, EcoBeau Natural BB Cream. Very lightweight packaging and definitely convenient for travel! Probably able to fit 3 day’s of products, perfect for a weekend getaway.

Now time for review!

First off, I love the packaging. Each of the skincare product comes in a very hygienic dispenser nozzle.

And of course with the caps.

Reviewing in this order as pictured and usage:

1. EcoBeau Natural Loess Water Foam Cleanser.

Product Info., taken from here:

Natural cleanser with soft foam that gently cleanses your face. Minerals from loess water and natural hydrant provide nutrition for your skin and keep your face feeling moist. Best Selling natural hydrating cleanser!
Use: Single pumping of foam will clean up light makeup and BB cream.
Nonallergenic to skin and eye. Soap-free.

Ingredients : Loess Water, Disodiun Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Polysorbate-20, Houttuynia cordata Extract, Gingko biloba leaf extract, Sesame seed extract, Padina pavonica thallus extract, Artemisia vulgaris extract, Rosemary leaf extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Citrus Medica Lemon Juice, Rice Bran, Avena Oatmeal Extract, Allantoin, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Usnea Barbata(Lichen) Extract, Collagen, Ubiquinone, Natural Fragrance

Recommended for all skin types. Made in Korea.

Ecobeau Loess Water Cleanser is formulated from natural loess harvested from mother earth. Depending on the loess minute mineral harvested, product may vary slightly in colour, scent and sometimes with mineral sediments. That’s because Ecobeau Loess Water Cleanser is 100% natural, with no artificial colouring and preservatives.

What is Loess?
Loess is minute mineral matter that aids health by emitting infrared rays, and has excellent absorptive, purifying, and revitalizing properties. In one tables spoon full of Loess, approximately 200 million microscopic organisms can be found, and those microscopic organisms have abundant supply of enzyme called ‘Catalase’ that breaks down oxides, which also have the effect of anti-oxidant; reduce heat, metabolisms and relaxation.

Loess is a new concept to me, so I did a bit of research and I found this write up online particularly helpful and insightful, so here’s an excerpt:
Loess is a geologically recent deposit of silt or material which is usually yellowish or brown in color and consisting of tiny mineral particles brought by wind to the places where they now lie. It is a product of past glacial activity in an area. It is a sedimentary deposit of mineral particles which are finer than sand but coarser than dust or clay, deposited by the wind. Loess is a type of silt which forms fertile topsoil in some parts of the world.
Loess was formed during the time after the Ice Age when glaciers covered a great portion of the earth. When the climate warmed up, the warm temperatures melted the glaciers creating tremendous flows of water down into a valley or river, and exposing vast plains of mud. When these plains dried, strong winds blew the exposed sediments and swept the finer materials from the flood plains into huge clouds of dust, which were deposited into the bluffs, that is, bold steep banks. As silt accumulated, higher bluffs were formed. Often several loess deposits are stacked on top of each other, because each individual glacier produced new loess deposits. Topsoils made up of loess are found in the central and northwestern parts of United States, in central and eastern Europe, and in eastern China.

The closest thing I can draw a parallel with is humus, which is essentially rich, fertile soil aka decomposed organic material, except that Loess is more like past-glacier-enriched-sand.

I enjoyed using this product very much. It’s very user friendly, 1 single pump results in a palm full (my palm anyways) of foam that doesn’t require any lathering. The scent is refreshing and “aqua” and the foam is very gentle. It gently cleanses my skin and it leaves the skin fresh and hydrated, no taut feeling. I recommend this for sensitive and acne prone skin.

This is how the foam looks like, very dense bubbles and fine foam.

UP. S$42.90, now S$30, available here.

2. EcoBeau Natural Skin Toner

Antimicrobial properties (intensified) from the extract of herb-medicine helps to keep off skin parasite and aids skin cell’s restoration. The herbal extract and sweet fragrance of rosemary totally invigorates the skin.

Use: After cleansing, spray onto face (close eyes) and tap gently to ensure best absorption. Apply Ecobeau lotion and cream (or refer to skin care tips for detailed steps customised for different skin types)

Ingredients: Water,Houttuynia cordata Extract, Gingko biloba leaf extract, Sesame seed extract, Padina pavonica thallus extract, Artemisia vulgaris extract, Rosemary leaf extract, Aloe Leaf extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Usnea Barbata(Lichen) Extract, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Rice Bran, Oatmeal, Arbutin, Collagen, Ubiquinone, Sodium Carbonate, Elastin, Adenosin.

Made in Korea.

Likewise with the Foam Cleanser, I enjoyed using this toner because it’s light on the skin and leaves it refreshed, hydrated. This toner does not leave my pores feeling taut. Like the foam cleanser, its effects will not be immediate overnight but after 2-3 weeks for healthier skin.

This is how the toner with water like qualities look like on the hand.
Similar to the cleanser, this is one of Ecobeau’s best sellers, now available here at UP $32.50, now S$28.

3. EcoBeau Whitening and Anti Wrinkle Natural Essence

Made from highly enriched extract of herbal medicine, Natural Base Control Essence is an intensive natural hydrator, highly nutritive with potent antimicrobial properties. The composite harmony gives restoration of damaged skin cell for radiant and resilient skin.

100% Natural Essence! orSweet scent of rosemary. As good as it smells!

Use: After cleansing and toner, pump 1-2 drops and tap gently onto face. Soft feeling when applying. Quick absorption

Ingredients : Water, Houttuynia cordata Extract, Gingko biloba leaf extract, Sesame seed extract, Padina pavonica thallus extract, Artemisia vulgaris extract, Rosemary leaf extract, Aloe Leaf extract, Glycerin, Arbutin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ubiquinone, Agaricus Bisporus mushroom Extract, Rhododendron brachycarpum Extract, Saxifraga stolonifera Extract. Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Collagen, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Usnea Barbata(Lichen) Extract, Hydrogenated Castor Oil 60m, Alpha-Bisabolol, Oatmeal, Allantoin, Cellulose gum, Rice Bran, Elastine, Adenosin

All skin types including atopy skin, acne-prone skin and face with freckles, liver spots, dark spots. Especially recommended for Oily/ Combination skin type.

Made in Korea

Unfortunately for me, this essence does not seat well with my skin as it’s “highly enriched extract of herbal medicine, highly nutritive” ingredients was too rich for me. :((( I tried it on 3 consecutive days, first two on my forehead which gave me pimples the next day, after which I wondered if it’s possible that I was having a hormonal induced outbreak (but I rarely have pimples on my forehead), so I tried it again, this time as a spot test below my chin, at my upper neck area and true enough it was too rich and I had a pimple.At this point you must be wondering why I’m so brave to test it directly on my skin, guess I can say that thankfully my skin is pretty good and not that sensitive and plus I have a lot of faith in EcoBeau products and generally have a very favourable view and experience with their other products. 🙂 So I will be passing on this product to my mum and I recommend this product for women and men who have dry-er skin, vs folks who have normal and oily T-zone like me, this would probably be too rich for you.

*Update* After passing the EcoBeau Whitening and Anti Wrinkle Natural Essence to my mum, she’s enjoying this product, she applies it on her face after and enjoys smoothness and shine that the product gives her after using it. 🙂

The EcoBeau whitening and anti wrinkle essence on my hand, it’s a gel like texture. Available here, UP S$76.60, now S$38.

4. EcoBeau Natural Nutritive Blemish Balm Plus SPF 28/PA++

New Formula Sebum Control, Natural Coverage, Matte Look
*Certified Sun block, Anti-Aging & Whitening, SPF 28 (KFDA)

Natural Base BB Plus Cream is formulated from herb medicine extract, natural hydrant, vegetable oil and natural nutriment. It helps to shield off harmful UV rays, acts as makeup foundation, provides nutrition and hydrates the skin (multi functional BB cream). With added sebum control properties, it helps to control oil secretion and maintain clean matte finishing.

Long lasting hydration and coverage for blemish

Use: Apply small amount over the face evenly. Sheer and light coverage. Dash a thin layer of pact or loose powder if you prefer better coverage. Suitable for combination/ oily skin type.

Ingredients : Water, Propylene Glycol, Titanium Dioxide, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, sopropyl Palmitate, Talc, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Diisostearyl Maleate, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Dimethicone, Dictamus dasycarpus turcz Extract, Houttuynia cordata thrunberg Extract, Gingko, biloba leaf Extract, Sesame seed Extract, Padina pavonica thallus(Brown Algae) Extract, Artemisia vulgaris(Mugwort) Extract, Rosemary(Herb) Extract, Aloe Leaf extract, Kelp extract, Morus Alba Root Extract, Phaselous Radistus Seed Extract.Grycylrrhiza Glaba Root Extract, Solanum Dulcamara Stem Extract, Agaricus Bisporus mushroom Extract, Rhododendron brachycarpum Extract, Saxifraga stolonifera Extract, Magnesium Sulfate, Beeswax, Microcrystalline Wax, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Aluminum Hydroxide, Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/ Hexastearate/Hexarosinate, Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77499), Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Zinc Stearate, Bisabolol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Allantoin, Panthenol, Ultramarines (CI 77007), Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Usnea Barbata(Lichen) Extract, Natural Fragrance

All skin types except highly sensitive skin due to sun screen added. Specially formulated for oily and combination skin types.

Tip 1: Ecobeau is free from synthetic preservatives and alcohol. Nevertheless, if you have highly sensitive skin condition, do spot test for allergy before actual use. Refer to Skin Care Tips on website.

Tip 2: Ecobeau BB Plus is specially formulated for ladies who prefer natural and sheer coverage (matte finishing). To apply, squeeze out bean-size BB cream and dab onto 5 spots (cheeks, eye area, fore head, chin and nose area) of your face after your usual skin care regime (cleanser -> toner -> moisturizer). Pat and gently spread the BB cream in outward direction to ensure a natural and good spread of the cream. Don’t be worried if your face appears a little fairer than usual. It will settle in after a while. Pat a few times (gently) to warm up the skin and enhance adsorption. For ladies with eye circles, you may wish to increase the coverage at the eye area for flawless finish. Unlike foundation, BB cream does not clog the skin and when used in the long run, will improve skin condition and even out skin tone.

Made in Korea

I have tested and used this BB cream and I like it for its sebum controlling effect and its matt finishing. This is a BB cream that is perfect for days when I know that I’ll be out and about and I don’t want the oily effect on my face. If you’re looking for that currently trending dewy Korean girl look then this is not what you’re looking for. My tip would be to use this for your oily T-zone and then a normal BB cream, such as their Ecobeau BB Cream (New! Smoother & Natural Shade) for the rest of your face.

Using the EcoBeau Natural Nutritive BB Plus Matt. No filter. Coverage is moderate. It’s specially formulated to feel and look matte.

BB Plus Matt UP $49.40 now S$33 here. BB Cream Smoother & Natural UP $49.40 now $30 here.

The BB Plus Matt. Beige with slight grey undertones.Applies with slight grey undertones but blends completely when applied. For comparison, my skin tone’s a NC 20 (MAC), Natural 05 (Elizabeth Arden) and 02 (Kose).

Want to win a set of products that I’ve reviewed?

1 Lucky winner will take home 1 set worth S$200, take part in my FB giveaway here! 🙂

Plus 4 more winners from the same giveaway will win the travel set (Lamb-y soft toy not included).

Last but not least, you may want to check out these helpful links on Skincare tips and Natural Skincare~ ! 🙂

Thanks to TheOrangeCo and EcoBeau for the products for review.

Thanks for reading!

Ena

Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle

WonDiorland Visuals featuring Dior Addict Eau de Toilette, IT Lash & IT Line

June 11, 2014 Ena Teo 1 Comment

Hi Lovelies!

Thanks to the folks at ION Orchard, I was invited down for a date with three beauty brands. Dior in particular prepared a full set of press releases with visuals for their Dior Addict Eau de Toilette & Dior Addict IT Lash & IT Line which frankly, are too pretty to resist and I am sure you will appreciate them on my blog as much as I do. 😉

Enjoy!

Dior Addict adds a new chapter to its story. Inspired by the smooth Eau de Parfum, Dior Addict has created an Eau de Toilette with instant appeal, subtle and spicy at the same time.

Composed by Dior Perfume Creator François Demachy, the new Dior Addict Eau de Toilette is a Floral-Fruity- Woody fragrance with a strong character; it sparkles with elegance, underlying sensual notes are kept wonderfully fresh.

The head note of Sicilian Mandarin draws you gleefully in, with charming citrus and fruity tones which are acidic yet rich. The white flowers of Jasmine Sambuc and Tunisian Neroli then blend with a woody base note of Sandalwood Essence, sensual and subtle, spiked with a touch of vanilla.

Instantly attractive, Dior Addict Eau de Toilette is a contemporary fragrance, instinctively beautiful, free to be seductive.

I don’t speak this often of fashion spreads, but this series of Dior Addict Eau de Toilette campaign shoot is quite possibly perfection. I haven’t seen a fragrance campaign that’s so evocative, compelling, gorgeous and fresh in a while. Well done, Dior.

Dior Addict Eau de Toilette 50ml, $122 Dior Addict Eau de Toilette 100ml, $178

A “Gel-Wax” formula for sensational, dazzling eyes that make an impact.

An intuitive, easy & precise brush.

Dior Addict IT-Lash Mascara Fabulous Impact Vibrant in Black, Purple, Blue & Pink, $52 Dior Addict IT-Line Fabulous Line Vibrant in Black, Purple, Blue & Pink, $49 Diorshow Mono Wet & Dry Backtage Eyeshadow in Black, Purple, Blue & Pink, $49.

If you’re planning to purchase some Dior, why not take the opportunity to book a makeover or Pro-coaching slot? Fees are fully redeemable for Dior products! 😉 Yes, save that image for your reference. 😉

Review

Dior Addict IT Lash: easy application and no clumping.

Dior Addict IT Line: thick, creamy & dries relatively fast. Does not smudge on my slightly oily lids, not even after a long day and it cleans well simply with my usual water based make up remover.

Dior Addict Eau de Toilette is a floral, fruity & woody scent. The scent is sensuous and will be apt for a date night.

Dior Addict Eau Fraiche is a light sweet floral scent and is perfect for a date at the garden, park or a lovely brunch place.

Dior Lip Glow Lip Balm has a natural peach colour, great for a base to plump the lips first.

Featured Dior products in this post are available now at all Dior counters.

Thanks to ION Orchard and Dior Singapore for the invitation, press releases & products for review.

Thank you for reading~ <3

Ena

Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle

ION Insider | A date with YSL, Estee Lauder & Dior Beauty

June 10, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Hi Lovelies! <3

ION Orchard, the beautiful mall along Orchard is looking for ION Insider resident bloggers! When selected, the resident bloggers will receive exclusive opportunities to preview and review events and upcoming collections presented by the brands at ION Orchard. The reviews will be up on ION Orchard’s blog, which is still in the works. From my knowledge, there will be fashion, beauty, lifestyle & food bloggers. As to how many bloggers will be selected is still a mystery! 😉

Yes, the search is ON and underway!

And after submitting my details to them, I’m one of the selected bloggers for a date with three beauty brands that I love. Lucky us, I know! But lucky you too, because I’ll be sharing with you the tips learnt from the demonstrations. 😉

But hold your horses, ’cause some pictures of our Bécasse breakfast is expected to tantalize your sight before we start our beauty date proper. 😉

On my way for ION Insider beauty date! Can you feel my excitement?

Here at Bécasse ION, a popular french inspired bakery from Australia! (Yes you read that right, it’s like our homegrown Sakae Sushi expanding to China. 😉 ) Bécasse has its origins in high-end artisan patisserie and bakery and its setting is designed to make you feel like you’re dining in Paris!

A sumptuous spread of sweet and savoury treats!

Here’s what’s served:

High tea Sweet:

Raspberry and Chocolate feuilletine

Banana tart with salted peanuts

Scones served with jam + crème fraiche

Macarons: salted caramel & coconut-pineapple

Hazelnut cappuccino crème pot

High tea Savoury:

Crab rillettes on baby lettuce

Foie gras mousse toast

Croque-monsieur

King crab brioche sandwich

I specially picked out this flat lay style shot from MakanMemory blog here, to show you the unadulterated beauty of the tea set! Remarkable isn’t it? 😉

Another flat lay style of their breakfast mains. You’ll be glad like I am to know that they serve breakfast sets ALL-DAY. Do I hear a hooray? 😀

Mixed berry French toast, served with poached pear & fresh ricotta.

Egg royal, served with smoked salmon, baked spinach & Hollandaise sauce.

Croque Madame, on brioche bread served with truffle oil baked eggs. Ohhh, yes.

I didn’t get to try all of their mains above but I did have a hearty serving of the Truffle Baked Free Range Eggs. It is as amazing as it sounds. All of you who love truffle fries? You say you love eggs like I do? Then you’re gonna have to try this. One word of advise from the bakery attendant tho, you have to eat it ideally upon serving cause otherwise the egg will be left to cooked and it won’t taste as nice when it’s overly cooked. 😉

My latte coffee, served to perfection, just the right amount of milk and the coffee has that kick that lasted me throughout the day! It’s what I call a power packed coffee. C’est Excellent!

Bécasse ION
#04-27-32, ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn

Phone: 62386373 / 68845365

Hours Daily: 10:00 – 22:00

Avg Price/Pax: $28 based on 4 reviews on HungryGoWhere

100% rating by 4 reviewers!

After a delightful breakfast & time with the ION marketing team & blogger ladies, we commenced on our beauty excursion at:

Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) Beauty boutique ION Orchard #B2-34

First up we have YSL makeup artist Francis demonstrating the best of YSL make up on the model.

Applying the foundation.

Bloggers snapping away very seriously and listening very intently. 🙂 Francis recommends this YSL Top Secret UV shield, he says he brought this to his latest beach getaway abroad and was kept sunburnt free. That’s great! A close up for all you UV protection lovers. <3 The products used thus far: YSL Forever Light Creator Serum, YSL Top Secret UV Protection & Le Teint Touche Eclat UV Foundation Base.

And of course Francis does his magic on the model’s face with highlights like a pro using best seller YSL Touche Eclat.

Highlights on the nose bridge, above eye, above the cheekbones, around the nose and lips! Then blend it all in~ Adding on the finishing powder…

Now onto the eyes with eyeshadow for that sophisticated look.

Using this palette, in YSL Couture Palette in 4 Saharienne.

Next we have mascara on.

Look is almost complete.

Finishing touch w the lips!

Beaming model. 😉

In total we have: YSL Forever Light Creator Serum, YSL Top Secret UV Protection & Le Teint Touche Eclat UV Foundation Base, Finishing Powder, Touch Eclat, Mascara & BabyDoll Kiss & Blush in 4 Orange Fougueux.

YSL has a beautiful Summer Collection titled Bleus Lumiere featuring model Cara Delevingne.

All the colours for the Bleus Lumiere collection!

For our second beauty stop, we arrived at

Estée Lauder ION Orchard B2-42

If you’ve been following my blog from the beginning, you should know that Estée Lauder is a brand that I’m very familiar with, having represented them as their digital ambassador back in 2012. For a trip down memory lane, visit my posts for their makeup collection, skincare & workshop. 😉

We were each given a 3 Minute Beauty pamphlet with: Signature Service. Secret Techniques. Instant transformations. This is what I call a beauty maven’s equivalent of 武林秘籍, a martial artist’s secret handbook. 😉 With this, you’re gonna be turning heads when you walk down the streets.

We start off with the first technique, Instant Glow/ Instant Matt. Ideally every woman has the right glow on the cheeks and matt elsewhere. 😉 Blending concealer & foundation together. Applying it on the model’s face with a foundation brush. Dewy glow!

Now blending Estee Lauder’s Illuminating Primer with blush.

Apply it on the apples of the cheeks.

Check out the dewy blush.

Time to highlight & contour. This part’s fun!

Start off with Estee Lauder’s new Double Wear All Day Glow BB cream.

Highlight using Estee Lauder’s Double Wear Bright & Glow Stick (Highlighter).

It will look like a number 3 on the right profile.

Blend it in!

See the remarkable difference on the right & left profile!

Blend it in with a brush and this technique is called the Estee Lauder / EL lift. The highlights has the effect of lifting your features. 😉 The techniques enhances the model’s beautiful features. <3

Now on to Estee Lauder’s #1 requested technique, Fatigue Fighter. What I love about Estee Lauder is that they know their consumers so well and customize their products and techniques to address the problems of women.

Blend in Estee Lauder’s #1 Best Seller, Advance Night Repair & Eye Concealer.

Dab it on the dark circles.

To go one step further, highlight the inner corners of the eye.

And also under the brow bone, as demonstrated.

The highlighted strokes form a C and inverted C.

Next, we have Lip Shape Up.

Dust a neutral, skin coloured shimmer shadow on the cupid’s bow, the area above your upper lips to accentuate the lips.

Fill your lips in with a lip pencil. Use one that ideally matches your lipstick colour.

Then fill in with lip colour!

Last but not the least, for a finishing touch, dab ANR on to the areas where you want to have a nice glow!

YES it can be used on top of make up, that’s how amazing the ANR is.

Comparing again the right & left profile, the colours pop up with a natural and sweet look on the made up profile. 😉

All the products used for the demonstration. Special mention for the Estee Lauder Double Wear All Day Glow BB Cream, Bright & Glow Stick & ANR. If you ask me which are the top 3 products I’d recommend from the session! With these 3 you’re gonna create a flawless base that lasts all day.

The lovely Estee Lauder Nail Lacquers. <3

Introducing Estee Lauder’s lounge corner for the luxe and prestige Re-Nutriv, Ulimate Lift and Age-Correcting Collection. Classy packaging as always.

Testers on the counter.

A comfortable sofa lounge area to learn more and experience the collection!

Last but not the least, we proceed to

Dior Backstage Beauty ION Orchard B2-44/46

This beauty galore was opened in Nov 2013 and has been making its well deserved rounds and exposure on social media. Just check out #diorbackstagebeautysg on IG to see what I mean! 😉

We have Dior’s PR very excitedly sharing her knowledge with us.

It’s always heartening to attend a session with an engaging presenter. You’ll be able to view a video of her in action below.

Chic and modern beauty counters.

Watch clips of Dior runways and beauty looks on the silver screen while shopping!

Dior’s limited edition Backstage Box for Summer 2014.

And we have the Dior beauty turn table. Such a beauty!

Watch this beauty turning in action. Heh!

The only Dior Eyelash bar in town.

Such cute tools to test the lashes!

Dior palettes for testings, against a silver screen of exciting and ever changing colours.

Dior powders are the best I’ve used by far. It’s very fine and superb quality.

Dior’s fragrance bar and area for you to test which scents is your favourite.

Scents galore! The little glass funnels are what you use to smell the scents. Very precious experience.

Next up we have Dior Backstage Beauty expert Vivian (only 8 in town!) sharing her skincare and make up tips:

The model with the complete fair & flawless look.

After which, we were invited for a quick touchup/ makeover as well. Alene has her eye make up touched up.

Want to look as gorgeously made up as the models and lovely Alene above? Give Dior Backstage Studio a call and book your appointment with them! 😉 Fees are fully redeemable with products, which I believe I will be going down when I have next a special event to attend to. I remember for prom back in JC I went down with my friend Rebecca to their counter in town and I redeemed a Dior powder foundation, yes the best I’ve tried so far. 😉

Here with lovely ladies Alene & June! <3 It’s so much fun attending events with these ladies!

Ending off this post with beauty goodies from each of the featured brands.

YSL Forever Youth Liberator series in travel sizes. Items from L-R, not in order of usage: Lotion, Cleansing Foam, Serum, CC Creme & Creme For more info., visit their site here.

Estee Lauder’s gifts came wrapped. <3

Estee Lauder products in retail sizes, L-R: Double Wear All Day Glow BB, Pure Envy Lip Stick in 320 Surreal Sun (Colour in photo is true to life), Double Wear Bright & Glow Stick and Nail colour in Surreal Sun. These are my summer must haves and loves. <3

Dior products in mixed retail & travel sizes, L-R: Dior Addict Eau De Toilette Travel Size 50ml – $122, 100ml, – $178 Dior Addict Eau Fraiche Travel Size 50ml – $122, 100ml – $178 Dior Addict IT Lash (Eyeliner) $49 Dior Addict Flash (Mascara) $52 Dior Lip Glow, $31

I was contemplating if I should add in the photos from the press release for the the Dior Addict Eau de Toilette, Dior Addict IT-Lash Mascara and IT-Line and I decided I’ll dedicate another post for them ’cause the photos are seriously pretty & plus this post is running pretty long as it is! 😉

The best/newest YSL skincare, Estee Lauder & Dior Beauty products, what a treat! 🙂

Didn’t take me long to take these beauties out for my #MOTD.

My review as on Instagram, @ena_teo: #PCAskin ExLinea Peptide Smoothing Serum boasts to remove lines and wrinkles. Been using this on my forehead and hands and I love the zesty orange scent! #KoseSekkisei Sun Protect Essence Gel in SPF 50+ PA++++ #EsteeLauder Double Wear All Day Glow BB cream NEW EsteeLauder Double Wear Bright & Glow Stick (Highlighter) #Dior IT Lash, easy application and no clumping. Dior IT Line, thick, creamy & dries relatively fast. #TheBodyShop All In One Pressed Powder is my current go to powder for its smooth finish. EstéeLauder Pure Color Envy Lipstick in red coral, creamy, hydrating and totally on trend for this summer! Plus, magnetic cover is super nifty. Dior Addict Eau Fraiche is a light sweet floral scent EstéeLauder Blush #ZA Ever Brow Dior Lip Glow Lip Balm has a natural peach colour, great for a base to plump the lips first. #Chanel eyeshadow, used the white for highlights for my eyes. And here’s my #motd using the products above! 😉

Thank you ION Insider marketing team Coleen & Charmaine for your hospitality, Becasse for breakfast & beauty brands YSL Singapore, Estee Lauder Singapore & Dior Singapore for the demonstrations, tips & goodies & the respective PR for the kind information provided for this post.

Thank you for reading~ I hope to bring you good news and updates on the next leg of the search for ION Orchard’s resident bloggers and be able to continue to share with you exciting updates at the mall! 🙂 Wish me luck! 😉 <3

Ena

Beauty

The Body Shop Instablur Launch

June 9, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Hi Lovelies! <3

I’m feeling happy because I am finally catching up with blogging about events that happened within the past month, HAHA. 😀 *major grins*

So, not too long ago, my insta-buddy Clarabel invited me to attend The Body Shop Instablur launch with her at Haji Lane. 🙂

Taking full advantage of the evening light when stepping out of the office for the event!

The event started with celebrity make up artist Elain Lim sharing tips of the trade and how important it is to have a good primer that acts as a base for the make up that won’t budge for photoshoots and require little to no digital touch ups.
She’s demonstrating on Rachel, of @RachelXoo.
Next up we have photographer guru Wesley Loh, who shares how every single person can look good on photos. Do you believe that! Photography guru says so! He shares his top tips, which I’m sharing with you all too, so we can all look together. 😉

1. Everyone has their good face
2. Shoot from above the nose line
3. Shoot from higher for bigger eyes
4. Find the better side, and shoot from slightly higher angle.
5. Proper sleep = no micro sagging/no droppy eyes!

We have our lovely Leanne who’s the model of the evening showing how lighting plays a big part to capture a good portrait too!

So I had to give the tips a try right? 😛
The lightning wasn’t really good cause it’s back lit…haha!
So I tried another one with a better lightning. 😉

I personally like to shoot with my right profile cause I feel it looks younger. But it all depends on my mood. I’ve been told I look best when I face straight on tho. I’m not gonna complain cause I like taking selfies but I don’t overly spam cause yunno’ it’s not nice to be overly narcissistic. Not for me anyways! You’re free to be whatever you want to be! #idontjudge #itrynottojudgeanyways haha.

There was an excellent spread of food, thanks to The Body Shop Singapore! <3
This was the best. Salmon with wheat noodles. Yummy~

Not forgetting a pic with my lovely Clarabel. Unfortunately we both look so super tan and sunkissed here. Lol!!! We’re actually pretty fair! 😛

And this is The Body Shop’s #noretouchtbssg promise and campaign! YES, let’s be proud to show the world our insecurities, our bare faces, our uneven eyelids – that’s me, and maybe I will or maybe I won’t do something about it in the future, but I don’t let it affect my security as a being -, our big pores, our freckles, our whatnots! It’s these imperfections that make us who we are!

Yeahhh this is more like our skin tone yeah. Except after Clarabel’s magic camera it looks like we’ve perfect skin. >.< But we don’t walk around with camera lenses so we need Instablur for that perfect primer yeah? 😉I didn’t manage to snap a shot of the queue of bloggers and ladies asking Wesley which is the best side. We all consulted him and he said I look good with my left profile (which is the one that’s more defined and mature) or a front profile is nice too. LOL. Totally different from what I like. HAHA. Anyway it’s good like if I need to take an official photo to look older I turn to my left, and if I wanna look younger, I turn to my right. Not bad right?

Thanks to The Body Shop Singapore, I got to try out these products! Here’s my brief review also posted on my Instagram a while back already! Follow me @ena_teo. 😉

Checking out the beauty goodies in The Body Shop All in One collection:
1⃣ New 5 Action Perfector Instablur primer. After a full day of use, I would say I really enjoy this product as it is a good primer and helped to hold up my eye make up the whole day.
2⃣ BB cream; Colour adapting tinted cream 01. Haven’t tried this as I currently have too many BB creams (not to be boast but it’s about 4 and I have another 4 new ones, lol. #boonandbaneofabeautyblogger) to try.
3⃣ Concealer 02. I’m usually a fuss free make up girl (who’d believed?) and I don’t use concealers as they are usually too creamy for my combination skin or not the right colour match for my dark circles. I also have this weird thinking that if I don’t conceal my dark circles, Id be more motivated to sleep early and naturally eradicated them. Ermmm last check, I haven’t slept before 12am in the past 3 months. #delusionalgirlissues But I am glad to report that this baby works like a charm for me. It’s like a sleek lipstick applicator that comes off like a smooth cream and totally blendable. Also matched my dark circles pretty well!
4⃣ Face base 03. I find that I really like it for its smooth and fine finish and it’s my current go to powder!
5⃣ Cheek colour shade ginger it’s a dark coral colour. I like it, goes well on my warm skin tone.
6⃣ Lip & cheek shade rose pink, a light lip gloss with a tinge of colour that is more red than pink. Definitely a finishing gloss with a lip colour below. Won’t do much on it’s own.

The All-in-One Instablur is available at The Body Shop at $32.90.

Oh and I also want to share that my baby girl Clarabel also got featured on the newspaper for her review. 😉

Check out her blog here. Can’t wait for our date when she’s back from Paris! 🙂

Thanks to Clarabel for inviting me, The Body Shop Singapore for the event!

Thanks for reading! <3

Ena

Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle

Clozette Tea Party @ Blisshouse

June 9, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Altho it was a while back, the Clozette tea party was a blast and here’s my belated photos from the event! 😉

With Kathleen

Cherie & Ashley

Kathleen, Carissa & Kexian
Photo-ception. 😉 With Azzy on the left, in blue.

Here with sexy Zean, be sure to check out her blog stateofzeanvo.com 😉

And Clozette Ambassador photos blown up on screen. >.< Check out the site here.
My OOTD, a vintage dress, simple black belt, Charles & Keith heels. Awkward pose. 😛

Lotsa selfies!!!

And of course, one of me after MeiTuXiuXiu app, posted on my Instagram. 😛

And some more. Yeahhhh. Thanks to the awesome Clozette team for the wonderful tea party & goodie bag! 😉

Blisshouse is located at The Central, Clark Quay, Level 3

Thank you for reading~ <3

Ena

Photos if not taken by me, credits to Clozette.co Facebook. 🙂

P.S. Please vote for me for Kose Sekkisei Cinderella Contest on the site here (http://sg.sekkisei-cinderella.com/finalist/ena.html)! <3

Current Giveaway
For a period of 2 weeks from 1-15 June 2014:
1. Vote for me on the site here (http://sg.sekkisei-cinderella.com/finalist/ena.html)
2. Like and Share this giveaway http://bit.ly/EnaKoseFBGiveaway on Facebook. (Make sure its public so I can see you’ve shared.)
3. Submit your details on this google form:bit.ly/EnaKose
to stand a chance to win a set of Kosé Sekkisei products including Clear Whitening Mask ($35) and Sun Protect Essence Milk ($46), total worth $81.
T&C applies, refer to end of post here.

Beauty, Lifestyle

Reward Dad with Crabtree & Evelyn Men’s Collection

June 9, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Hi Lovelies! <3

Father’s Day is coming up this weekend, although we definitely don’t need a special day to remind us to treat our Dad, it’s good to take this occasion to tell your Dad “Thank You”. After all, it’s only right after all the times he’s changed the fused light bulb and caught the bug that’s flying or running rampantly in your room, right? 🙂

Well, thanks to Crabtree & Evelyn Men’s Collection, we don’t have to fret what we can buy for Dad this year! After all, we’ve been getting pens, hankerchiefs, ties for the past few years and perhaps it’s time for a change this year. 🙂

Long-standing favourites in the Crabtree & Evelyn^® Men’s Collection, Nomad^® and Sandalwood have been re-launched for 2014 with new names and packaging. Nomad^®is now Moroccan Myrrh and Sandalwood, previously unavailable in Singapore, has been renamed Indian Sandalwood to highlight the featured ingredient provenance in line with the third Men’s Collection, West Indian Lime.

These collections are inspired by classic perfumery ingredients sourced from around the world and chosen for their distinctive scents. Each fragrance is infused into an array of bath, body and grooming items that are packed with additional benefits to ensure superior cleansing, moisturising and styling.

This is an awesome promotion going on, and you can always trust Crabtree & Evelyn for quality body pampering goodies and presentable (read: you don’t need to find a wrapper to wrap them up) packaging. If you have any siblings, it’ll work out to $40 or less per person. 😉

Moroccan Myrrh is a sexy and refreshing manly scent, Indian Sandalwood smells like luxurious old spice and my personal favourite is West Indian Lime cause it’s citrusy and something I’d most likely use except I don’t have a beard to shave. Ha. Nonetheless what I like won’t necessarily be what my Dad or your Dad likes! 😛

Crabtree & Evelyn® Store Locations

Takashimaya S.C, Ngee Ann City #B1-36/36A Paragon #B1-26
Raffles City Shopping Centre #B1-29
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands #B2-17A Suntec City Mall #01-320
Bugis Junction #01-14
VivoCity #01-00
Parkway Parade #01-07
Tampines Mall #01-31A
Junction 8 #01-42A
Jem® #01-60
The Star Vista #01-03

Thanks Crabtree & Evelyn Singapore for the press kit and goodies for my Dad! 😉
I’m sure glad Mum got her set previously! Heh.

Thank you for reading. <3

Ena

Beauty

b.liv’s don’t get mad, get matte! Mask Review

June 8, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Hey hey! <3

Today I’m gonna share my review of b.liv’s don’t get mad, get matte! mask 😉

This is a Clarifying Mask with Active Charcoal Mask Sheet (Refreshing Type)
This has oil control + clarifying + hydrating functions.

This mask promises to be a skin-saver that lifts away impurities and excess sebum, leaving the skin clear, balanced and fabulously glowing.

The unique active charcoal mask sheet touts to act like a magnet to draw out deep dwelling pore cloggers so you can experience hours of TLC that your skin deserves.

Key Active Ingredients & benefits includes:
Retinyl Palmitate: Regulate sebum secretion and stimulate skin regeneration
Zinc Sulfate: Combat excess sebum & Control Surface shine while clarifying the complexion
Willow Bark Extract: Exfoliants to lift away impurities

How to use:
1. Leave the mask on for 15 minutes
2. Gently massage the remaining essence for 30 seconds
3. Leave it for another 30 seconds for complete absoprtion

This is how the mask looks like!

My review:
The mask is sturdy and of a thicker cotton material compared to others I’ve used before. It’s packed with liquid goodness and there was some tingling sensation on my skin during the 15 minutes that I had one on, which I accrue it to the active ingredients in the mask and that it’s lifting away impurities on my skin. After removal, my face is moist and full of the residual essence and I massaged it into my skin as recommended for 30 seconds. After which, my face is matt and oil free as the mask promised! I would definitely recommend this for people – ladies and gents alike – who have oily skin, use this in the morning before heading out. 😉

Get yours here, 1 box of 7pcs for $17.95
b.liv ships internationally and orders above US$40 enjoy free shipping.

For more products and info, visit:http://www.bliv.com/sg/

Thank you b.liv for the masks!

Thank you for reading <3

Ena

P.S. Please vote for me for Kose Sekkisei Cinderella Contest on the site here (http://sg.sekkisei-cinderella.com/finalist/ena.html)! <3

Current Kose Giveaway
For a period of 2 weeks from 1-15 June 2014:
1. Vote for me on the site here (http://sg.sekkisei-cinderella.com/finalist/ena.html)
2. Like and Share this giveaway http://bit.ly/EnaKoseFBGiveaway on Facebook. (Make sure its public so I can see you’ve shared.)
3. Submit your details on this google form:bit.ly/EnaKose
to stand a chance to win a set of Kosé Sekkisei products including Clear Whitening Mask ($35) and Sun Protect Essence Milk ($46), total worth $81.
T&C applies, refer to end of post here.

Beauty

Launch of PCA Smart Skin Solutions at Marina Bay Sands

June 7, 2014 Ena Teo 3 Comments

Hi lovelies! <3

A while back I was invited to attend the launch of PCA Smart Skin Solutions at Marina Bay Sands ballroom.

For the uninitiated, let me fill you in more about PCA Skin, taken from there site here http://www.pcaskin.com/about:

Founded as Physician’s Choice of Arizona, Inc. by an aesthetician working with a handful of physicians, we have evolved into Physicians Care Alliance, LLC, a global organization serving over 5,000 medical practices in the United States, with products sold in over 70 countries around the globe. Throughout our history, we have consistently been referred to as PCA SKIN, a company dedicated to the science of healthy skin.

PCA SKIN has been and continues to be a trusted industry leader in the development of gentle, yet highly effective professional treatments and daily care products for over two decades. With a team dedicated to serving others, our vision is to improve people’s lives; we do so on a daily basis by partnering with physicians and clinicians to provide a proven process combining aesthetics and science for healthy, beautiful skin. We set the bar high when it comes to innovative skin care, being acknowledged in prominent medical textbooks as the originator of advanced blended chemical peel formulations.

PCA SKIN treatments and products are available exclusively through licensed skin health professionals that have been trained and certified by PCA SKIN in their use. PCA SKIN certification is sought after by medical professionals across the nation. The knowledge gained from our exceptional education enables professionals to build successful practices and achieve the most effective results from PCA SKIN daily care products and professional treatments.

Here we are at the panel of discussion by L-R: Douglas Abel, CEO of PCA Skin, Ivana S. Veljkovi, R&D Manager of PCA Skin and CEO of Zoë Nissi Pte Ltd, PCA Skin’s exclusive distributor in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore. Zoë Nissi Pte Ltd is a Singapore based company and dedicated in distributing quality and innovative physicians dispensed skin health products. Yes, it means that the skincare products distributed by Zoe Nissi are only available at doctor’s clinics and not available over the counter. More details of where to locate these clinics at the end of the post.

There was an excellent buffet spread at the event thanks to MBS, I must have been busy indulging that I forgot to take photos! >.<

After the panel of discussion, we headed over to the launch area where we attended an introduction of the PCA Skin brand and a very thorough talk of Dr Ivana explaining the types of skincare products by PCA Skin.

Without further ado, here are the products gifted to the media for review!

Some of PCA Skin’s star products, L-R:
1. Facial Wash for normal skin type, also suitable for body wash
2. Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45
3. ExLinea Peptide Smoothing Serum

PCA Skin Facial Wash
This gentle latic acid formulation includes a novel cleansing blend that effectively removes environmental impurities and makeup while leaving the skin hydrated, soothed and pH balanced. Recommended for normal skin on the face and body.

Ingredients included:
Lactic Acid: a alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) naturally found in milk and sugars, it moisturizes the skin.
Aloe Vera Leaf Juice: purifying ingredient best known for its softening and soothing benefits.
Allantoin: antioxidant that soothes the skin
Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract – calms and soothes the skin
Directions for use: Apply a dime sized amount to damp skin and massage into a light foaming lather. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Follow with toner, serums and sunblock in the daytime and moisturiser in the evening.

Review
First of all there is a strong traditional chinese medicine scent to this facial wash, which I accrue to the Willow Bark Extract. I have to say that the scent alone would put me off from using this facial foam for the long term, but as the Chinese idiom goes, 良药苦口, bitter medicine is good for health. As the benefits of the willow bark extract calms and soothes the skin. I just really wish that they could have added in some natural fragrant ingredients to mask the scent though. I first lather the facial wash in my hands and then apply and massage all over my skin. It is a gentle wash and it leaves my skin with just a light tinge of tautness. I would recommend this for people who have sensitive skin and require a wash that is gentle, calming, soothing and free from artificial ingredients.

Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45
This broad spectrum sunscreen provides UVA/UVB protection with the technology of ultra sheer zinc oxide and a blend of additional sunscreen ingredients. It also contains the important antioxidants silybin, also known as milk thistle, and caffaine. Its unique quick absorbing and light finish makes Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45 ideal for patients with oily or breakout-prone skin and those who dislike the feel of traditional sunscreen products.

Ingredients includes:
Zinc Oxide (0.9%): provides broad spectrum UV protection by reflecting, scattering and absorbing UV rays.
Octinoxate (7.5%): absrobs and filters UV rays.
Caffeine: supports anti oxidant* activity
Silybin: an antioxidant*
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E): is a fat soluble antioxidant vitamin and emollient ingredient.

*Antioxidants protect skin by limiting the production of free radicals, which can damage skin cells. Antioxidants in skin care products can do a lot for the health and appearance of your skin, including reducing the signs of aging. From calming inflamed skin to tightening and toning, antioxidants offer great benefits from natural sources. See more info. here.

Directions for use: smooth on skin after cleansing. Allow to absorb 30 minutes prior to daytime exposure. Reapply after two hours of sun exposure and repeat every two hours as needed. It is recommended for daily use.

Review:
As I am writing this review I realize that I have very strong opinions on the scents for all the 3 products for review. For this sunblock, there is a strong sunblock scent reminiscent of heavy duty Banana Boat types of sunblock. I can’t identify where the scent comes from, but I’m guessing it is one or the combination of active ingredients Zinc Oxide and Octinoxate that gives sunblocks that sunblock scent. So once I smell it, I think of swimming pools and sunny beaches – well, you know the places I go to when I need sunblocks.

Once again, gonna let the photos speak for themselves:

A little goes a long way. This is how the sunblock looks like. White and semi-liquid.
After application, a whitish tinge.
After thorough application, it leaves the skin with a white layer, which is super reminiscent of the sunblocks I used to use when I was younger, those days when I go swimming every single day for June holidays! I would recommend this for days when you’re just heading out without make up and of course to the pool or beach where we usually don’t put on make up! On normal days I recommend using this on your hands and legs where its exposed to the sun. Not so recommended for daily application before make up as it tends to be slightly greasy for its heavy duty nature. Well unless, you know you’re heading out to a sunny place and you need that extra coverage. Then yes, go ahead and protect yourself before the scorching sun dries up the sunblock and your skin!

ExLinea Peptide Smoothing Serum
This treatment formulation synergistically hydrates, smoothes and firms aging skin. It contains ingredients that minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Key ingredients:
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline) – works to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinklling.
Sodium Hyaluronate – has the ability to hold 1000 times its weight in water; plays an important role in skin hydration.
Squalene: is a naturally occurring oil found in such foods as olives and wheat germ. It helps to keep the skin moist.
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax: helps to moisturize and smooth the skin.
Directions for use: after cleansing and toning, smooth one to two pumps onto area of wrinkling and laxity, concentrating on the lines around the eyes, forehead and mouth.

Review:
No doubt, this is my favourite product of the three. I have been using this for the past week, I love the zesty orange scent and it’s a light liquid, very hydrating and boast of minimizing wrinkles. I have been using it on my forehead and my hands. You’ll see the photos below. I have already been raving about this to my sisters after using it and I am planning to pass to my mum after using it.

Lightweight liquid. See the difference on my hands before and after application.

My hand is visibly refreshed and hydrated.

Close up to show you that the fine lines are really plumped as promised by the write up! Excellent!!!

To obtain the PCA Skin products reviewed above, check out the full list of Zoe Nissi distribution clinics here: http://www.zoenissi.sg/location.html

A big thank you to PCA Skin, Zoe Nissi Singapore for the invitation!

Thank you for reading! <3

Ena

Beauty, Lifestyle

Mary Kay Smokey Eye Makeup Workshop

June 7, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Hi Loveiies! <3 <3 <3

I hope you’re having a blast of a Saturday!

As you should know by now, April & May has been really busy and here I am still blogging about all the events and workshops I’ve attended! 😀

On the same day that I attended the Cervical Cancer awareness talk for bloggers, the very morning I attended Mary Kay’s Smokey Eye makeup workshop with my friend. Christabelle & friends!

As usual, photos time!

Here Julianna the make up trainer is demonstrating how it’s done. 🙂

My bare face and testing out the Time-wise eye serum skincare before putting on the make up.

Almost done~

So pretty eh!

The smokey eye palette.

I was using Star Lash eyelashes!

Here’s my full look! Using the Mary Kay smokey eye (above) palette for my eyes, bb cream(korean formulation) & lipstick. Using Starlash lashes, available online here.

Together with Christabelle. <3

With all the beautiful ladies & trainers Julianna and Mary Kay consultatant Wendy!

I bought this botanical effects scrub cause I enjoyed it so much during the last session, and gifted it to my mum for Mother’s Day! 🙂

For enquiries for Mary Kay’s workshops, contact Wendy Yip at 9638 1039.

Thanks to Wendy for the invite!

Thank you for reading~

Ena

P.S. Please vote for me for Kose Sekkisei Cinderella Contest on the site here (http://sg.sekkisei-cinderella.com/finalist/ena.html)! <3
If you’re a fan of Kose Singapore FB, you have to unlike and like them for the vote button to pop up again!

Beauty

Your Perfect Shade Workshop with Elizabeth Arden featuring Summer Escape Colour Collection 2014

June 6, 2014 Ena Teo 1 Comment

Hi lovelies! <3 <3 <3

A while back, I attended “Your Perfect Shade” Workshop with Elizabeth Arden featuring Australian Make Up artists, Stephan Gaskett.
It’s always a pleasure attending Elizabeth Arden’s workshops and product launches, it isn’t just the wonderful skincare and beauty products that boasts of the latest R&D technology, delicious food or generous goodie bags, it’s the gracious company of fellow beauty bloggers and the humorous Elizabeth Arden team that I enjoy the most. 🙂

The event was held at Mandarin Gallery Grange Ballroom and there was a spread of Elizabeth Arden’s new make up products for us to test and swatch! 😀

New products include:

Flawless Finish Perfectly Nude Makeup SPF 15PA++ ($70)
Flawless Finish Correcting and Highlighting Perfector ($40)
Spring Collection 2014 – Summer Escape (Assorted Prices)

Beauty iridescent creamy pots of eyeshadow colours perfect for summer with its nautical inspiration! <3

Pure Finish Cream Eyeshadow in Overboard (Blue), Anchors Away (Brown) and Sand Dollar (Peach)

Get your summer sunkissed look with these bronzers without ever having to step out in the sun! :p

Pure Finish Summer Escape Bronzing Powder in Deep Glow (darker) and Warm Glow.

Beautiful Colour Gloss Stick, L-R: Coral Reef 01, Pink Sky 02 & Sunrise 03

I particularly like Coral Reef 01 and Sunrise 03 (Pink)!

More Elizabeth Eyeshadow colours!

Food & Dessert spread ~~~

I LOVE QUICHES. <3

Elizabeth Arden even brought in a full make up tester counter !

The new star product, Flawless Finish Perfectly Nude Makeup SPF 15PA++.
The actual product comes in the pretty & classy gold coloured dispenser, the black ones are testers.

It’s a fact, girls can never have enough lip sticks and lip glosses.
And you might know that I am forever obsessed with bright pink lippies! Pink Vibrations 28 ($35) is just perfect! It’s from the Beautiful Color Moisturizing Lipstick range, see below:

Before the workshop, Angeline Lim-de-Silva, Elizabeth Arden’s Regional Training Manager presented to us the Summer Escape Collection.

I’m sure you want to see the pretty collection it all its glory, so here it is, you’re welcome. 😉

Animated gift credits to EvCurlGurl.
The entire set. <3 <3 <3

I think the cover design is serious pretty. <3

Next up, we have Stephan Gaskett showing us on model Joey, how to use the products to create a Summer look!

The completed look! A naturally sun kissed summer look.

Here’s my “before” look and I was coincidentally also sporting a blue eyeshadow look.

Bare-face, let’s begin!

These are the products I used for my look. 🙂 <3

More close ups of these eyeshadow beauties.

And here we have a peak at the bloggers busy at work! 😀

Here’s my made up look! The blue eyeshadow is lighter in colour, creamier and of course my skin looks fresher with a coat of the
Flawless Finish Perfectly Nude Makeup SPF 15PA++ (S$70) ! It’s touted to be a lightweight, luminous foundation and proven to minimize pores. I think it provides really great coverage and a smooth finishing! My shade’s in Natural 05. Flawless Finish Correcting and Highlighting Perfector ($40) I used it to conceal my dark circles and highlight the area below my brows. Works like a charm. And yes do I love the Beautiful Color Gloss Stick in Sunrise (Pink)! I personally think that the look is sophisticated, allowing one to step out from the office and right onto some summer beach or pool party. Yeah~

I am very happy with my look. 😀
I always believe that to look good, one needs to have good skincare, makeup products & confidence. 🙂
I personally think we should invest in the best skincare and foundation that we can afford, and of course the confidence comes free, and often it comes easily when you’ve got good skin. You can trust me on that, as I use to have teenage acne troubles!

What’s an event, if not for the memories that we take back with us?

Here with model face of the evening, Joey.
With Stephen Gaskett, check out his instagram on @SGaskettMakeup 😉

With lovely belles, June, Patricia & Yvette, who also won the best look of the evening! 🙂
Follow me on Instagram @ena_teo for actual time updates! 😀

I know you want to get the products!
For a list of Elizabeth Arden Singapore counters visit their site here.

Thanks Elizabeth Arden Singapore for the workshop invite. <3

Thank you for reading! <3

Ena

Beauty

Glitter Nails with Naughty Nails

June 5, 2014 Ena Teo 2 Comments

Hi lovelies! <3 <3 <3

Last week I was invited down to Naughty Nails salon and I was very happy as their invite came very timely before my Kose photoshoot.

Here’s photos from the session, check it out:

First my nails had to be sanded from my previous hard gel treatment (from another salon). It was a lottt of work. >.<

Here’s how they look like after being sanded down, I decided I wanted to keep the remaining hard gel on, so that we didn’t have to sand it all the way down to my nails. 😀

Didn’t get to take photos of the soft gel painting process as my hands were occupied. 😛 More photos of the completed look below!

Here’s how the salon looks like, able to cater to two customers, have to make appointments before going down so you don’t have to wait or be disappointed that there’s no slot. 😉

The place is easy to locate if you exit from Braddell MRT.

Here with Jocelyn, the lady boss who invited me down and Jenny the manicurist. 🙂

Check out my pretty glitter soft gel nails with the colours of the sea!!!
I opted for a simple and elegant design. ^^
Super love how my nails sparkle!!!

So pretty <3 <3 <3

More pics, with a change of background, haha ^^

Look Ma, I can touch the skies! :p

Here’s my post Kose shoot look with the nails!
P.S. Pls vote for me here if you haven’t and take part in a giveaway here to win Kose products from yours truly! 😉

Alright, I’m sure you want to know the details!

Their Soft Gel nail package is priced at $45, able to last min. 3 weeks (or however long your nails take to grow out, really).
The added gradient colour would cost an additional $10 and additional adds on will be charged accordingly too.

Address:
Blk 116, Toa Payoh Lorong 2, #01-116 S(310116)
About 3 min walk from Braddell MRT
Call or SMS them at 8622 1198 to book your appointment! 🙂

Check out their promotion above!

Visit their site here: http://naughtynails.wix.com/nails

Really love their nail polish-card, I mean, name card! 😉

Thanks to Jocelyn for this Clear Nail anti-fungus treatment!

I have a weird unfounded clotted area on my toe nail and she gave this to me to treat it! <3
It’s $49, if you have a similar problem better treat it or face the possibility of your nail dropping out. >.<
You can also buy it or pre order from her, Call or SMS at 8622 1198

Thank you to Jocelyn for the invite !

Thank you for reading! <3

Ena

Beauty, Lifestyle

Kose Sekkisei Cinderella Contest Audition & Updates

June 1, 2014 Ena Teo 13 Comments

Hi lovelies! <3 <3 <3

By now I’m sure you’re aware that I’m one of the 6 finalists in running to be
Kosé Sekkisei Cinderella for Singapore.

I want to specially dedicate a post to share with you all the audition process and the month long process thus far! 🙂

Prizes for the champion for the Kosé Sekkisei Cinderella Contest
includes SGD$6,000 cash &
an invitation to the Sekkisei 30th Anniversary Birthday Party to be held in Japan in spring 2015 (next year).

There will be special prizes:
Ms Popular & Kosé Judges Special Prize where the winners win a year’s supply of Sekkisei products.

I’ve previously shared the reason why I wanted to take part in the contest on my instagram and my contest Facebook page.
It’s also featured on the contest dedicated site, a screenshot here:

And that’s the reason I am blogging about my journey, to share with my readers about Kosé products, the journey of this contest, beauty tips and my personal thoughts. This is in line with my blogging philosophy; to share about my personal experiences and hopefully it brings a smile to your face and inspires you to pursue your own interests and make wonderful memories of your own! 🙂

This is the contest schedule, we’re just done with May’s Facebook postings and June’s public voting has just began! More on that later. Results will be out in July, exciting times and it’ll also be my birth month! 🙂

Now let’s rewind back to the audition evening:

I first came to know about the Kosé Sekkisei Cinderella Contest on Facebook in passing and it was only when I attended the Kosé workshop with June that she encouraged me to take part and so I did!

On the evening of audition, there were about 20 shortlisted ladies present. We were spilt into groups of 6-7 and each batch took turns to go into a room with a panel of Japanese and local Kosé representatives who asked us questions and we had to reply them one by one. They asked questions like why did we take part in this competition (my answer above) and what is our idea of a Cinderella. If you’re curious, my idea of a Cinderella is someone who is kind and gentle. I am definitely not a perfect Cinderella, but I do aspire to be a kind and gentle lady! 🙂

Some of the refreshments served for the audition evening, including special Japanese snacks brought by the representatives from Japan.

After some consideration, the panel of judges decided on the 6 finalists and we were given a briefing on what to expect and also took photos for our contest Facebook page profile, with a tiara no less! ^^

Here with one of the Kosé staff who was also our host for the evening, who speaks fluent Mandarin, Japanese and basic English. I am always in awe of multi-lingual people!

Everyone who came down for the audition went home with a Kosé Sekkisei goodie bag, and of course the 6 finalists got a complete set of Kose Sekkisei skincare regime to use, review and share on our contest Facebook page:Truth: Kosé Sekkisei Cinderella Contest is influencing me to be a big fan of the deep sea blue. <3

I’m reposting from my Instagram how I’ve been using Kosé Sekkisei products for my morning and night routine:

Kosé Sekkisei Morning Skincare & Beauty Routine

1. White Liquid Wash, 140ml, $46
I use 1 pump, lather on my hands for a foamy and gentle facial cleansing.

After cleansing, I use 2. Emulsion, 140ml, $82
A small dose is sufficient moisturizer my entire face.

3. Sun Protect Essence Gel in 50+SPF PA++++, 80g, $50
is a milky gel that applies smoothly and keeps my face protected against the damaging sun rays.
On days when I don’t want foundation (on days when I don’t have to attend to any appointments or events), I end my skincare at this step.

4. White BB cream, 30g, $39
Is my current go to BB cream. It’s lightweight yet provides a good coverage for a dewy look on camera. 🙂

With these 4 skincare and beauty products, my skin is pampered, protected and I’m good to go!

This is how I look after 2 weeks of using the products, photos with no filter.

My current Kosé Sekkisei Morning Skincare & Beauty Regime Summary as posted on my Instagram.

Now onto my Kosé Sekkisei Night Skincare & Beauty Regime

This is how I look like 3 weeks, photos without filter, after using Kosé Sekkisei products, with Kosé White BB cream, after a full day!
YES, can you see the dewy glow that the White BB cream gives? Well, of course there’s a bit of my perspiration at work, nonetheless this is the reason why the White BB cream is my go-to BB cream, I like that it is lightweight and has a smooth and dewy finish.

1. Cleansing Cream, 140g, $44
in cherry size. I use a cotton pad to pick the cream up and I love how cooling and gentle this cream is on my skin.

2. Facial Liquid Wash(140ml, $46) in the shower, same as the day.

3. Clear Whitening Mask, 76ml, $35
Apply an even layer over face, avoiding the eyes, hair line and lips. It dries taut within 20 min and removes cleanly, along with pore hairs so that my face is shiny & smooth!

You have to apply a fair thick layer, it feels like I used up 1/10 of the bottle.

Remove the mask gently from the bottom first and then side, and try to remove from both sides of the face together with the nose being the last touch point, so that the mask removes the dirt and hair more effectively.

4. Lotion (100ml, $41). Apply using Kose’s cotton mask and leave on for 15 min. Leaving my skin hydrated.

Kose’s 100% Cotton Lotion Mask

Tip: Use the bottle cap of the lotion as a mini container.

Fill it up with the cotton in it.

Fill to the brim.

Till the cotton is fully absorbed with the Lotion goodness <3

Leave in on your face for 15 min. Pat down gently.

5. Night cream, 40g, $82
use in pearl size, I love how hydrating this is and it has a refreshing aqua scent.

6. Eye cream, 20ml, $82
use in rice grain size for each eye. I apply along with an eye massage, great for resting the eye.

I love how my skin is hydrated and fairer after this regime! No filter and yes, it’s a nice blush and rosy cheeks I have there. HEH.

The full Kosé Sekkisei Night Skincare and Beauty Regime Summary as posted on my instagram, @ena_teo.

I’m gonna repost the before and after photos, side by side for your comparison here:

So, what do you think? My skin has gotten fairer, smoother and more radiant huh? ^^

The 6 of us finalists also had a photoshoot recently, with Tricia who’s the blogger mentor for this contest. Some of the behind the scenes photos of that day:

Kosé skincare and Esprique make up for the day~

Getting my hair done

Photos of our fittings at Tricia’s Vainpot Boutique.

Visit Tricia’s online boutique vaingloriousyou.livejournal.com for her fab dresses! I’ve got my eyes on one of her Mary Katrantzou inspired designs. 🙂

Accessories in hues of blue…

Here’s the one matching my dress. From Lovisa if I’m not mistaken!

Getting my hair and makeup retouched just before the individual shots:

Giving my best mega-watt smile 😀

With the other lovely finalists, Gina, Michelle, Elizabeth and Chloe, missing Cheryl while it was her photoshoot turn!

With Tricia! <3

And UKay, the photographer of the day.

With Chloe, Michelle, Gina and Cheryl.

With all the finalists and the Kosé marketing team! 🙂

All of us finalists had dinner together and it’s a blessing to be taking part together in this contest with all these lovely ladies! <3
It’s been a rewarding journey thus far to be able to meet with all these lovely Kose Sekkisei Cinderella Contest team, Tricia herself, her team and Cinderella finalists. 🙂

With the the make up team, Cleo, Cindy and MUA whom I didnt get the name, sorry!

Post-shoot photo. 😀

Couldn’t bear to remove the make up without some selfies to remember the look by, so here goes!:

Please vote for me on my Kosé Sekkisei Contest page here. Arigato! <3

When you vote, you’ll get an exclusive coupon code to enjoy Sekkisei Lotion 100ml at $25 worth $41! 🙂

Last but not the least, I’m having a mini Kosé giveaway worth $80!

When I was attending the workshop, I bought these products to try, little did I know that I would later be selected as one of the 6 finalists and sponsored the same products (and more). Therefore I would like one of my lucky readers to win this set of Kosé Sekkisei star products which I’ve been enjoying:

Kosé Sekkisei Clear Whitening Mask 76g, $35 and Sun Protect Essence Milk 57g, $46.
They’ll come in these pretty blue and silver boxes! & I’ll be sending these to the winner via mail.

~Giveaway~

For a period of 2 weeks:
1. Vote for me on the site here (http://sg.sekkisei-cinderella.com/finalist/ena.html)
2. Like and Share this giveaway http://bit.ly/EnaKoseFBGiveaway on Facebook. (Make sure its public so I can see you’ve shared.)
3. Submit your details on this google form:bit.ly/EnaKose
to stand a chance to win a set of Kosé Sekkisei products including Clear Whitening Mask ($35) and Sun Protect Essence Milk ($46), total worth $81.

T&C:
– Contest runs for 15 days, from 1-15 June.
– Winner will be randomly chosen using excel sheet and announced after on my Enabalista FB page (https://www.facebook.com/enabalista).
– Contest opens internationally.
– Winner will have to reply to my FB message or email within 3 days with his/her address and I will send it over within 1 week.

In the event that I win the contest/crown title come July when the results are out, I will also be randomly picking 1 more local winner(based in Singapore) from this same giveaway list and the very lucky winner will win a handwritten note by me & $500++ worth of Kosé Sekkisei products, yes the very same set above!

Hope you enjoyed this post~ 😉

Thanks to Kosé Sekkisei Cinderella Team for the sponsorship and support to all of us finalists thus far.

Thank you for reading! <3

Ena

Beauty

TheFaceShop introduces The SMIM Fermentation Concentrate Range @ Cotton ECP

May 31, 2014 Ena Teo 1 Comment

Hi lovelies! <3 <3 <3

A while back I attended TheFaceShop’s blogger launch for The SMIM Fermentation Concentrate Range at Cotton Restaurant at East Coast Park.

As usual, I’ll let the photos do the talking before I review the product! 😉

As I was slightly early for the event, I took a stroll along the East Coast beach.
I KID. The truth is, I was lost and I walked in the wrong direction, so I sorta took a detour before I reached Cotton restaurant. Nonetheless, I learn to enjoy the detour. 😉

And look, what a sweet picture this is, a couple having what seems like dinner. Not a bad view and date I must say. 😉

The clouds, the view, the breeze… reminds me of why I enjoy heading to ECP with my friends. 😀

Finally! I found Cotton. Looking pretty cosy even from the outside…Here’s the view from the area we were seated. It’s really quite a big restaurant, and I heard from Alethia that they serve pretty good brunches! More about the food later. 😉

The brand executive of TheFaceShop sharing about the SMIM Fermentation Concentrate Range.
Yes, that’s Sheena on the right. 😉

The SMIM Fermentation Concentrate Range (not in order of the photo, but in the order of usage):
Information courtesy of TheFaceShop Press Release

1. SMIM Fermentation Total Treatment, $66.90
With 85% of pure yeast extract and naturally fermented kefir grains, this treatment is the ultimate ally for women for intensely regenerated and repaired skin for optimal youth and glowing radiance. This ‘Miracle of Youth’ acts as a power booster to enhance the synergy of products used in subsequent steps to promote texture refinement, firming, wrinkle resilience, sebum balancing and radiance.

2. SMIM Fermentation Toner, $53.90
An anty-aging toner consisting of undiluted kefir grain fermentation crystals and pure yeast extract, this gelish watery texture toner penetrates deeply in your skin, providing optimal hydration and elasticity. It contains Tundra Chaga mushroom substance that strengthens your skin’s defense power to help accelerate skin repair for healthy, hydrated and radiant skin.

3. SMIM Fermentation Essence, $59.90
An all in one anti-aging essence that contains a high concentration of fine particles of fermented Tibetian mushroom extracts and concentrated yeast extract., this lightweight essence aims to provide intense firming, radiance and regeneration to your skin. Light to the touch, this essence will melt into your skin and leave it with an satin radiance and luxurious touch.

4. SMIM Fermentation Emulsion, $53.90
The Emulsion provides an intensive firming and wrinkle repair. With a perfect blend of micro kefir grain fermentation crystals and natural fermentation yeast liquid, this essence helps to achieve a youthful radiant glow and an even skin tone. The undiluted fermented yeast solution and Tibetan mushroom extracts render soft flexibilty to the skin and elasticity for refined skin texture. Lightweight emulsion melts into the skin for silky hydrated comfort.

Pretty Suzy of Miss A and also touted the new “Korea’s Little Sister” is the Face of the SMIM Fermentation Concentrate Range.

We were each gifted a bottle of the SMIM Fermentation Total Treatment. 🙂

During the session, we tried using this product and the hand that had this product applied, I could visibly tell and experience that it quickly absorbed the subsequent water sprayed on, while the other hand had the water droplets sitting on the skin. Lol!

More of my review later. 🙂

Now onto dinner at Cotton @ ECP!

This is a very yummy tuna salad.Roasted chicken and beef. The beef was very tender, I usually don’t fancy beef due to its overly chewy texture but they served it up very well. The mushroom gravy for the chicken was especially yummy.

These tiny sized chicken wings are a hot favourite amongst the bloggers. I’m not a big fan of chicken wings, but I know these are perfect for parties! Plus, the chilly sauce is very yummy too. The skin is crispy and the meat isn’t dry. If you’re a chicken wings fan, I recommend this. 🙂

After dinner, we had a cross word search activity! Fastest blogger wins a big pack of TheFaceShop hamper.

Nope, I didn’t win cause I wasn’t fast enough! LOL.

With Yvonne, who won the game! 😉

Some selfies of the night~

Thanks to TheFaceShop, I’ve just started using this product after cleansing and before putting any other skincare. The recommendation is to use it with a cotton pad, because the product will remove the dead skin cells and only with the cotton pad can the dead skin cells be picked up. So I’ve used it and I did find the cotton pad just slightly yellower than normal so I reckon the removal of dead skin cells is legit! There is a little sweet scent, not sure how to describe it except for sweet, and it’s texture is much like a toner, very lightweight. The full effect of this product is supposed to take effect in 14 days.

If you’d like to know a more detailed review, you can refer to Sheena’s 14 day beauty diary / journey on CozyCot, where you can also redeem a 2 weeks trial bottle here (which I think is the mini bottle that I also have, see above) you should also check out Sheena’s blog here. 😉

Last but not the least, a promotion specially for my readers!

Plus, TheFaceShop is offering Free Makeovers this weekend (see below). What are you waiting for?

Thank you TheFaceShop for the event invite~

Thank you for reading <3

Ena

Lifestyle

Busting Myths about Cervical Cancer & Tea @ Lady M Singapore

May 31, 2014 Ena Teo 1 Comment

Hi Lovelies! <3 <3 <3

How have you been? I hope you’re having a fine Saturday! 😉

About 1 month ago, I was invited to attend a brunch to know more about Cervical Cancer.

Gonna digress a little, just wanna give a shoutout to my sister, Lujia’s friends:

Krystle, Brenna, Gen Wong, Gen Ng & Pamela!

I know, I know, lately almost all of posts have been sponsored reviews. But I can’t help it. I’ve got blogger obligation (self imposed, really) to review and blog about all the lovely products that’s been sent to me, I can’t possibly not blog about them. And so, I’ve still got tons of products and events queued up to publish. I reallyyy want to get up to speed with all my product and event reviews so that I can have a 2 days turnaround. But right now I have enough content to cover for the whole of June! >.< Not that I’m complaining, I just need to get myself disciplined to post up reviews every day or every other day! It’s just, with a full time job, it’s hard to manage. I really take my imaginary hat off to the bloggers who have no problem managing both, and yes, I’m talking about you girls, Cheryl and Alene!

Anyhoo, let’s get down to the Cervical Cancer talk! 😉

Here we have A.Prof Goh opening the session, telling us 3 salient points:

Cervical Cancer Rates have dropped since the introduction of CervicalScreen, Singapore’s pap smear screening programme.
HPV Vaccination was made Medisave Payable in 2010 for young girls.
Dispelling the myths will help all in a better education about cervical cancer and how you can prevent through regular screening and vaccination.

Aren’t these balloons in the prettiest pastel pink and mint colours? ^^

Next up, we had Prof Tay Sun Kuie, Senior Consultant of Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology (read: the dept that specializes in the care of female reproductive system. You’re welcome.), sharing with us about the 10 myths of Cervical Cancer.

I’ll be sharing & busting 10 Myths here:

Myth 1: Cervical Cancer is not common, it can never happen to me

The number of cervical cancer cases in Singapore has been decreasing in the last 20 years because women take part in prevention programs.
Without these programs, cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer affection women. Globally, 500,000 women are diagnosed each year.

Myth 2: I am not at risk of Cervical Cancer as there is no such history in my family

Almost all cases of Cervical cancer occer in women with no family history of it. It is caused by a common virus – HPV.
There are about 130 different types of HPV but only 15 cause cancer. The 4 most frequent and aggressive HPV types that cause cervical cancer worldwide, are HPV 16, 18, 45 and 31. – Not that me telling you this makes any difference. >.< #geektalk

Myth 3: Getting Cervical Cancer is linked to being sexually promiscuous

HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact:
Sexual intercourse or contact at the genital area
Non sexual contact (mother to infant during delivery)
Women can still be infected from having just one partner.
Every sexually active woman is at risk of being infected by HPV because it is so common and so easily transmitted.

Myth 4: I am feeling well, I do not have HPV infection

Cancer causing HPV is silent.
Infected individuals do not know that they are infected and may unknowingly speadthe virus.
Early cervical cancer has no signs or symptoms, this is why regular screening and prevention are critical.

Myth 5: If I have a normal Pap smear, it means I will not have cervical cancer

A pap smear is a screening test to detect any changes in cervical cells.
One normal Pap smear is not enough to protect you from cervical cancer.
In Singapore, all woman aged between 25 and 69 years old who ever have had sex are advised to have a pap smear done once every 3 years.

Myth 6: Pap smear program is effective, HPV vaccination is unnecessary

Pap smears and HPV vaccination play different roles in the holistic prevention of cervical cancer.
Pap smear detected changed in the cells of your cervix which may develop into cancer later.
Vaccination help to prevent certain HPV infections and reduce the risk of developing cervical pre-cancers and cervical cancer.

Lastly we had A/Prof Anne Goh, President of Pediatric Society and a gynaecologist sharing the remaining 3 myths and her own personal doctor stories with encounters of Cervical Cancer story, one that I will share below.

Myth 7: I am already sexually active, so the vaccine will not work for me

The best time to vaccinate is prior to sexual debut.
However, HPV vaccine has been proven to protect thousands of women in the clinical trials who were already sexually active.

Myth 8: My daughter is too young to be vaccinated. She won’t be at risk of cervical cancer at the age of 10.

Immune response is stronger when vaccinating young.
Singapore has included HPV vaccination into it’s National Childhood Immunization Programme starting from age 9-26 years old.

Myth 9: Vaccinating adolescents will encourage sexual promiscuity

The goal of vaccinations is to reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
Therefore, vaccination should not encourage promiscuity.

Myth 10: I must wait for my daughter’s menses before vaccination

Vaccination will not impact the onset of the menstrual cycle.
The antibodies generated by the vaccine will not interfere with adolescent development.

Side Effects associated with HPV vaccine:
injected site pain, redness
low grade fever
fatigue

Prof Goh mentioned that one of the most heartbreaking case she came across was a mother of 2 children, who came back for a check up with she was in the last stage (stage 4) of the Cervical Cancer and within a few months she passed away, leaving behind 2 young children. It was obvious to Prof Goh that the mother only had one partner (her husband in marriage) and still, Cervical cancer happened to her due to the common HPV virus. And she also mentioned that the majority of her cervical cancer patients are the common aunties in our midst. It is not a taboo, it is reality. In fact, she has not come across a single sex worker in her career because sex workers are regulated by law to go for check up regularly, to make sure they are in the pink of health.

Prof Sun spoke earlier that, there is no guarantee that you will not get Cervical cancer, unless you take the vaccination AND still go back for checks every 1-3 years.

So if you’re sexually active, it’s time to get your pap smear done and follow up with a vaccination plan! Even if you’re not sexually active, it’s best to get vaccinated before you are. Go ahead, call 6499 9133 to make your appointment.

Now for pics of Lady M cafe where the talk was held~

Best cake stand, ever! ^^

I had this, very yummy!
With blogger Crystal at the event~

My latte from Lady M, couldnt resist as I had an appointment in the morning and by 3pm I was in need of a perk me up!

I didn’t manage to take a pic, but their mushroom soup is incredibly yummy too, must try!

Event pics with Sam & Ash & Yvonne! Be sure to check out their blogs! 😉

Hope you found this talk as information as I did! 😉 I’m doing my bit to spread awareness on Cervical Cancer prevention!
Prevention is ALWAYS better than cure. 😉

Here’s an infographic to end off the post!

Thank you OCG Communication for the invite.

Thank you for reading! <3

Disclaimer: Protect to Tell – Cervical Cancer Awareness” on 12^th April 2014 Sat (the “Event”) was held as a lunch session, organised and sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline Pte Ltd. I was not paid for participating in the Event. All personal views expressed here are entirely my own.

Ena

Beauty, Lifestyle

MyLuvMe.com & Hyo Yeon The First Treatment Essence Review

May 29, 2014 Ena Teo 2 Comments

Hi Lovelies! <3 <3 <3

Today I’m very glad to be sharing about an online beauty shop, MyLuvMe.com! 😉

MyLuvMe.com focuses on supplying beauty products from skin care, hair care, body care, to make-up and color cosmetics, to health food, as well as beauty tools and accessories to consumers. All brands that are selling under myLuvMe.com are 100% guaranteed genuine and supplied directly from their authorized distributors. Along with offering international delivery all around the globe, they also provide free return within 14 days. Cool, huh?

Let’s check out the site together, shall we? ^^

Home page, the top bar promises free return within 14 days, authenticity guarantee, free international delivery upon 2nd purchased item. COOL.

Go ahead, check out all these acclaimed beauty brands! I spot a few of my faves, Kose, Dior, Estee Lauder… ^^

It seems that they have a featured brand every week and promotions going on for the featured brand… So you just gotta check back every week! 😛

These are their new arrivals, featuring Lancome, Estee Lauder, Dermalogica, Eve Lom.

Hot items include bliss, what seems like a slimming machine, La Prairie cream, Glam Glow Bright Mud Eye Treatment (being seeing a few raves on blog and social media!) and Valmont (haven’t heard or seen this brand before!).

PLUS they have a customer review segment, so awesome. I LOVE a site where I get to read customer’s review of the products before I buy, just so I know I’m buying a product that is well loved, hehe! I’m also the kind of person that goes to a restaurant and orders the food with the “Popular!” “Chef’s Recommendation!” stamps next to the food item on the menu when I am ordering… 😀

Thanks to MyLuvMe.com and Welcos, they sent me a Hyo Yeon The First Treatment Essence for review and here’s my review!

Before my review, just a little more about Welcos, the company and the brand Hyo Yeon.

Welcos is a Korean company that is all about a “Total Beauty Solution” manufacturing their own products and using natural ingredients mostly if not all grown in Korea. You can check them out on http://www.welcos.com/.

Their current model ambassador is Seo Hyun Jin:

Check out their 5 beauty brands: Hyo Yeon, Puretem, Eco ennea, Kemuel and Lian. I feel a bit like a beauty geek right now, but I really enjoy reading up and knowing about beauty brands and their mother companies. It’s just, nice to know where a product comes from and what the brand stands for, don’t you agree? 🙂

Coming back to the brand I’m reviewing: Hyo Yeon

They use special ingredient: Lotus Stem Cell.

The product feature is it’s 92.98% Pomegranate Lacotbacillus Extract which works to enhance the skin’s condition to its best level, keeping it healthy, protecting it and boosting the skin’s original health. Recommended to use after cleansing face, apply to face with cotton, wiping or dabbing to allow skin to absorb.

This is how the Hyo Yeon First Treatment Essence looks like, watery with slightly thick consistency, like syrup.

After the Hyo Yeon FTE is absorbed into my skin. My skin is more hydrated and supple and slightly brighter.

I did a test, to see if water would be absorbed faster into this hand after applying FTE.

VS my right hand, which I didn’t apply FTE. The verdict is that the rate of absorption was not the crucial point, but rather, the one with Hyo Yeon’s FTE gave my skin a more supple and firmer look, the lines were less obvious and is also smoother to the touch. Pretty awesome!

My review after using it for 2+ weeks is that I enjoy using this product. I use it in my first step of skin care, after cleansing. I will use this product generously on my face ensuring that all my face, neck and arms area are covered with this product. All without cotton, as I think it’s a waste to use it with the cotton as most of the product will end up on the cotton instead of my face. Then I will apply on my toner, moisturizer and make up.

I can tell you that my arms were having slight rashes due to the odd weather in Singapore blowing hot and cold. And all I did was simply to apply this FTE to my arms (both day and night) and a little of my normal lotion at night and the rashes would disappear soon and stop itching almost immediately. What I would highlight is that this product has a slight oriental ingredient scent, reminiscent of ginseng, I can’t read Korean, so I cannot confirm if there really is ginseng, however it is very light and should not put you off from using it unless… you have phobia of ginseng, lol. I would definitely recommend this product to all FTE fans and Hyo Yeon’s 200ml bottle is only S$41 on MyLuvMe.com as it’s currently on sale. U.p. is $58. Awesome much!
Buy it here. Check out other Welcos products here.

That’s all I have for now. Hope you enjoyed this post!

Thank you MyLuvMe.com &Welcos.

Thank you for reading! <3

Ena

Beauty, Lifestyle

Get Your Zen Beauty with Black Paint

May 2, 2014 Ena Teo 1 Comment

Hello~!

In this post, I wanna share with all of you a set of skincare that I’ve tried for 3 weeks. 😉
Black Paint Sg sent over a pretty box of their beauty goodies for review:

Such a pretty rose motif~

Happy girl ^^,

All the Black Paint products in a glance~

Their star product, Black paint soap bar is a gentle pore cleansing hand-made face soap with Kishu Bichotan Charcoal (White Charcoal) cleans pores and removes oil and dirt thoroughly but gently without stripping away skin’s essential moisture, leaving skin fresh and silky smooth. It contains 23 types of plant oils, amino acids from silk powder and vitamins in honey and brown sugar.

This is the list of plant oils, for once, a beauty product ingredient list that can be read and understood in simple english and not some laboratory code language! 😀
SOAP FOUNDATION, WATER, JOJOBA SEED OIL, UREA, OLIVE OIL, ALMOND OIL, PINE EXTRACT, CHARCOAL, PALM OIL, COCONUT OIL, RAW SUGAR, IRON OXIDE, HYDROLYZED SILK, LAVENDER OIL, HONEY, GREEN TEA LEAVES, DAMASK ROSE OIL, MACADAMIA NUT OIL, AVOCADO OIL, ROSEHIP OIL, GRAPE SEED OIL, EVENING PRIMROSE OIL, FLAXSEED OIL, BORAGE SEED OIL, SAFFLOWER OIL, SUNFLOWER SEED OIL, PEANUT OIL, SESAME OIL, WALNUT SEED OIL, PERILLA FRUTESENS SEED OIL, APRICOT KERNEL OIL, HAZELNUT SEED OIL, ROSE OIL

Pretty amazing huh? A few of the oils that I understand which are really good for the skin are Coconut oil, nourishes the skin and Evening Primrose oil, helps prevent hormonal imbalances! In fact, if you don’t know, #funfact I take Evening Primrose Oil also known as EPO nightly. One aunt first recommended it to my sister, who then recommend it to me. Been taking it for 2+ years now, and It’s one of those beauty saviour (in addition to proper skincare regime, diet, facial) that’s really helped me prevent hormonal acne outbreaks! There’s a lot other goodness/benefits of EPO, you can go read up about it online. 😉

More about the Kishu Bicotan Charcoal

One of the main factors of why BLACK PAINT is black in color is because of its White Charcoal component. White Charcoal has been widely used in Japan since thousands of years ago for their teamaking (Chado) ceremony. White charcoal is made from holm oak, a very hard wood used in kilns in the southern Kishu area in Japan. This charcoal, called Kishu Bichotan, takes about 10 – 40 years for the suitablely grown branches to be selected for its making.

Kishu Bicotan Charcoal is considered to be the best grade because it is hard and yields a long burn. Due to the hardness of the word, the charcoal made from such wood produces a high pitch ‘tingling’ sound. Bichotan is also called White Charcoal because it is covered with ash during final processing, leaving whitish ash powder on its surface.

Known as the best quality charcoal for purifying water and air, the variety of benefits of Bichotan charcoal can be found in a number of everyday uses. Whether it is used to absorb chemicals in tap water, enhance blood circulation in a hot bath, stimulate healthy soil in the garden, or deflect negative ions in your home, the environmental and chemical-free charcoal is the natural way to boost overall wellness.

Here’s the recommended usage of the Black Paint Soap Bar:

My personal experience & review of Black Paint soap bar
Because I previously read blogger Karen of Renzze’s review, I picked up a tip from her to chop up the soap into smaller bars which is easier to apply on the face and prolongs the longevity of the soap.

What I truly love about this soap is how natural and zen it makes me feel, during the cleansing process and after it.
As pictured, it is recommended for us to apply the black paint soap over the entire face. I find the application and cleansing process very therapeutic and artistic. I feel like I am a chinese calligraphy practitioner and I am spreading ink over my face, that is the canvas. The entire experience is oddly satisfying and I recommend everyone to try this unique product! And of course, other than the interesting and unique experience, I also like that soap bar cleanses my pores, but yet doesn’t leave it squeaky clean. I used to think that squeaky clean skin is good, but I’ve now learnt that it’s better to use gentle cleansers that will clean our skin but still leave it hydrated with necessary oils on our skin. 😉

This star product has won the Grand Gold Medal of Monde Selection Award Winner for 5 consecutive years since 2009, under the Cosmetics and Toiletry category in Japan. Award winning product!

Black Paint’s Konjac Sponge
A 100% natural facial sponge made from vegetable fiber, Kishu Binchotan charcoal (White charcoal) and various minerals that enhance absorptive ability, helps removing excess oil and dead skin cells in the most delicate manner.

Konjac = 100% Natural Vegetable Fibre
The KONJAC SPONGE is the perfect tool for cleansing your face with BLACK PAINT soap, but can also be used without a cleanser. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and is ideal for those with oily skin and acne.

Its 100% natural vegetable fiber delicately pulls blockages from pores, while the Kishu Bichotan charcoal absorbs dirt and excess oil. You may see waste and dead skin cells coming off as flakes, a gentle exfoliation which promotes new cell growth. Skin is left with a smooth and clear finish.

How to use:

My personal experience & review of Black Paint’s Konjac Sponge

I like that it is really gentle on the skin and this second step cleansing process is a further extension of the whole zen beauty regime. Having a 100% natural vegetable fibre cleansing + massage tool, one can’t get any more zen than this, right? As shown above, do make sure you take it out of the bathroom and possibly back to your room to air dry to extend its usage~

Now we come to the 3rd + 4th steps of the beauty regime~

Black Paint’s Best Water Toner & Oil Water Lotion.

Black Paint’s Best Water Toner

A pore-minimizing toner that contains 30 types of minerals that deeply penetrates the skin (epidermis) to nourish and help restore skin’s natural barrier to prevent moisture loss

Ingredient list
WATER, SODIUM, BORON, MAGNESIUM, SILICON, SULFUR, POTASSIUM, NICKEL, SILVER, ANTIMONY, LITHIUM, ALUMINUM, PHOSPHORUS, CALCIUM, SCANDIUM, VANADIUM, CHROMIUM, MANGANESE, IRON, COPPER, ZINC, STRONTIUM, MOLYBDENUM, ARSENIC, RHODIUM, TELLURIUM, BARIUM, HOLMIUM, LEAD, COBALT, BROMINE, RUBIDIUM, TIN, IODINE, CAESIUM, TANTALUM, IRIDIUM, PLATINUM

My review of Black Paint’s Best Water Toner

In my personal opinion, this Best Water Toner is enriched water. The feel and texture is similar to applying water on your face. I personally think that this product isn’t a very effective skin softener or essence to prime the skin before lotion application. Which leads me to:

Black Paint’s Oil Water Lotion

A dual-layer emulsion that regenerates, protects, soothes, and soften the skin keeping skin soft, supple, radiant and young-looking, while a delicious rose scent uplifts the spirit.

Ingredients

ROSA DAMASCENA FLOWER WATER, OLIVE FRUIT OIL, ARGANIA SPINOSA KERNEL OIL, ROSA DAMASCENA FLOWER OIL, CRANBERRY SEED OIL, ROSE FLOWER OIL, ADONIS PALAESTINA FLOWER EXTRACT, SUNFLOWER SEED OIL, ROSA CANINA FRUIT OIL
* The ingredients listed in GREEN are organic, moisture retention ingredients.

Why Dual Layer Emulsion?

Two layers, one complete formula for regenerating and protecting your skin! Because we refuse to put any synthetic emulsifiers into our products (and onto your face), the ingredients in OIL WATER separate as they sit in the bottle. To mix them up again, just shake the bottle before using.

Ideal for sensitive and aging skin, OIL WATER helps tighten and firm up its texture. The “magic” ingredient is rose essential oil, noted for its healing and rejuvenating effects on the skin including the reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, redness and uneven color. We maximize its effectiveness with a blend of organic plant oils for hydrating protection against dry air and environmental pollution.

My review of Black Paint’s Oil Water Lotion

I enjoy using this product! Although it is a quite a hassle to shake it up before applying every time I pump it out, (2-3 pumps for my whole face) this rose scented oil water lotion is a delight to the regime as it’s completely natural, hydrating for my combination skin and it smells awesome. I love the smell of roses, so the sweet rose scent is really a huge bonus to the product.

Last but not the least… *drumrolls*

Black Paint’s Water Cream

A water-based moisturizing cream that diminishes visible pores, protects your skin from dryness and maintains moisture all day long. By filling the skin with moisture, it builds resistance from outdoor environments as well as creates a smoother and more refined skin texture.

Natural Ingredients

The star ingredient in WATER CREAM is Moroccan argan oil, a renowned natural anti-aging product worn by women since ancient times. This wonder-working oil, extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, is a unique blend of oils, minerals and fatty acids. It is exceptionally rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin E.

WATER CREAM, which also has argan oil and 7 more organic plant oils, makes use of these ingredients for additional protection and moisture, restoring the skin’s own youthful capability to resist drying agents from both within and without. Use it as a make-up base during the day and a moisturizing cream at night.

DIMETHICONE/PEG-10/15 CROSSPOLYMER, GLYCERIN, SQUALANE, ARGANIA SPINOSA KERNEL OIL, ROSA DAMASCENA FLOWER OIL, SODIUM HYALURONATE, OLIVE FRUIT OIL, HYDROLYZED COLLAGEN, MACADAMIA TERNIFOLIA SEED OIL, SWEET ALMOND OIL, ROSA DAMASCENA FLOWER WATER, XANTHAN GUM, SODIUM CHLORIDE, MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE, ROSE FLOWER OIL, LAVENDER OIL
* The ingredients listed in GREEN are organic, moisture retention ingredients.

My review of Black Paint’s Water Cream

I think it would be more accurate to name it Water Cream with a tinge of Moroccan Argan oil. I don’t like the oil feel on my skin, which I would liken it to the lip balm(albeit gel and not solid form) feel. After using it for 3 weeks, I can attest that the oil did not break me out and in fact I am impressed by the cream. To name it Water Cream isn’t accurate or doing it justice, but I guess some customers might be turned off with the idea of applying oil on your face. But as you can tell and have read from Black Paint’s super educational facts and my personal review above, applying natural oils on your face isn’t as bad as it seems.

It might seem weird that most ladies spend their dollars on oil removing and oil prevention beauty products, but here Black Paint is campaigning for natural oils for the skin. The Black Paint way of skincare is radically different, requires a fair bit of education for us customers but I can say that the journey for me has been enjoyable and the experience, rewarding. I would definitely recommend this regime to all you beauty lovers, for a zen and natural beauty experience~

It is recommended to use the Black Paint skincare range solely (no mixing) for 28 days to maximize results, however it is ok to use the soap and sponge with other skincare brands if preferred.

This is a really long post huh? Well, to sum it all up, here’s the entire regime in a poster:

Visit their online site here and their Facebook page for updates.
Black Paint is currently available at ISETAN, B2 Westgate Mall, the prices are as such:
Black Soap S$49.90
Konjac Sponge $14.90
Best Water $59.90
Oil Water Rose $49.90
Water Cream $79.90

All italicised information and pictorial posters credits to Black Paint Singapore, courtesy of their site.

Thank you Steph and Black Paint for the products.
Thank you for reading <3

Ena

Art & Design, Beauty, Lifestyle

Visible Whitening with Elizabeth Arden

May 1, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Hello all you lovely people~

In a blink of an eye 😉 , May’s here! I do hope you’re enjoying this lovely May Day. 🙂

Well, I hope you’re out having dinner or relaxing at home, cause I’m here at my desk blogging. 😀

If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know that I don’t have a schedule for publishing new posts. I try to write as much as I can (which isn’t more than 2-3 posts each seating, haha!) when I’m free and schedule them over the week. Lately the drafts have been piling up due to the fashion, beauty & lifestyle events I’ve attended and products received for review. And I always think that I should spend a certain time of the day (early morning, really) to blog, but I don’t have that discipline to do so, sigh pie. :/ I also hope to be able to share more creative and original content (yunno, like non-sponsored posts, haha!) but I also have an obligation (personally-imposed) to finish blogging about the sponsored ones first. Plus, it’s not nice if I get invited as a blogger, but then I don’t blog about it right? HAHA. Ok, surely you get my drift, that you can expect a lot of new content on my blog, content that you’ll and you’re hopefully enjoying! 😀

So, a while back I attended Elizabeth Arden’s Visible Whitening Blogger event, introducing their Visible Whitening Intense Brightening Biocellulose Mask and Visible Whitening Anti-Melanin Spot Corrector.

Photos time!

On the way towards Arteastiq Gallery @ Mandarin Gallery where the event was held, on a Saturday morning.

Elizabeth Arden’s Visible Whitening Range. Doesn’t it look super chic and also kind futuristic with its silver packaging with rainbow hue-d reflections? More of that later!

The actual items on display.

The new product, Visible Whitening Intense Brightening Biocellulose Mask.

Elizabeth Arden’s classy gift box with its iconic red door. After the new products presentation, we were each presented with a blank canvas, a set of brushes and box of paint and an hour plus to paint our version of the rose. The blogger with the most creative and pleasing painting gets to bag home the gift box above.

And the painting begins!

Bloggers Jerlene & Yvette fully focused at the task on hand. 🙂

On the opposite row, more bloggers sketching out their ideas. 🙂

Here’s my brushes & canvas pre-painting. Oh, and my cup of rose tea courtesy of Arteastiq cafe~ Check out my previous post on them here.

I was inspired by the rose, baby breath flowers and the shadow casted onto the canvas.

My brushes and palette, post-painting! I decided on the 2 main colours red and white, representing Elizabeth Arden’s brand colours.

My completed painting.

Close up.

What do you think? 😉

A selfie with the lovely Isabel from Eliz Arden team.

Snippets of the event posted on my Instagram, @ena_teo.

The products we were gifted for review. So in love with the new packaging!

My review

Elizabeth Arden Visible Whitening Intense Brightening Biocellulose Mask

It was my first time using a Biocellulose mask, and I think that it takes some getting use to. I’m rather accustomed to cotton-type masks and this Biocellulose mask feels like jelly on the skin. The concept of the Biocellulose mask is that it fits onto the facial contours like “second skin”. The feel of the mask is no doubt luxurious. Each box comes with 5 masks and each mask is individually wrapped with key ingredients such as Vitamin A derivative, Vitamin B3, and optical diffusers to help firm and brighten skin’s appearance instantly and with continued use by reducing the appearance of imperfections. In addition, Vitamin C derivative and Lipoamino Acid work to significantly reduce the appearance of existing dark spots and uneven skin tone.

Key Ingredients

Lipoamino Acid and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) — assist with the appearance of uneven skin tone.

Vitamin A Derivative (retinyl linoleate) — Supports skin’s own collagen and elastin matrix to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and enhance skin’s ability to reflect light.

Vitamin C Derivative— Controls melanin production to help enhance skin’s brightness and diminish darkness over time.

Adenosine— Supports skin’s own natural collagen to reduce visible signs of aging.

Hyaluronic Acid and Barley Extract Complex— Helps to increase skin’s moisture content to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and refine the look of pores.

Licorice Extract – Helps to inhibit tyrosinase activity to prevent the formation of dark spots and uneven skin tone.

Glycerin— Helps to improve skin’s moisture content.

Mica Minerals and Corn Starch—Optical ingredients able to reflect light to instantly brighten the look of skin and impart immediate radiance.

The suggested usage is 2 masks weekly, for 4 weeks to achieve optimum results. I would recommend this mask for ladies who appreciate a luxurious feel during their mask regime, and/or as a gift for a special woman (mother, wife, girlfriend) to show that you care. 😉 Each box set retails at SGD$90.

Elizabeth Visible Whitening Anti-Melanin Spot Corrector aims to target stubborn dark spots and uneven skin tone, reducing their intensity. Infused with intensive skin brighteners, such as Vitamin C derivative and an exfoliating agent, pre-existing melanin in the skin’s outer most layer looks diminished and new melanin production is controlled. Due to the exfoliating agent, the spot corrector will result in the dark spot drying and falling off, and it’s not advisable to be scratched off. After testing it out, I personally don’t fancy the product compared to other spot correctors I have used. I feel that it would be better if the spot can be corrected without having to dry and flak off. 🙂 Maybe the R&D team can take in this suggestion and improve their next formula? Each tube comes in 20ml, retails for SGD$110.

Key Ingredients:

Lipoamino Acid—Assists with the appearance of uneven skin tone.

Vitamin C Derivative— Controls melanin production to help enhance skin’s brightness and diminish darkness over time.

Protease Enzyme—Eliminates dead skin cells to smooth skin’s surface and supports natural cell renewal to help exfoliate surface pigmentation.

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Soy Amino Acids and Yeast Extract Blend— Helps maintain skin’s hydration and moisture balance.

Hyaluronic Acid—Helps to hold moisture in skin.

List of Elizabeth Arden stores / counters in Singapore can be found on their site here.

Ending off this post with this lovely quote:

Thanks to Isabel and Elizabeth Arden Singapore for the lovely event and products.

Thank you for reading. <3

Ena

Beauty, Fashion, Inspiring, Lifestyle

My date with J’s Nails

April 29, 2014 Ena Teo Leave a comment

Nail Art is gaining popularity in this sunny island Singapore.

So imagine my delight when J’s nail’s invited me down for a session of their nail service and to review their nail salon! 🙂

J’s Nail’s Salon is located at 19 Shelford condominium, a little shop right in front of the pool area.

A little waiting area decked out in purple hues.

A wall of nail magazines, nail polishes and gel containers.

How cute are theses nail polishes? ^^

Something about these colours gets the artist in me very excited and happy!

The pedicure area. Cushy red seats.

The manicure area!

Some of the current trending designs, i picked the design on the second column, second from the bottom. Opting to replace the neon yellow with blue. 🙂 These designs are done by Vivien / Joann, usually they will take inspiration from magazines and trends and input their own flair to it. So there is really no duplicate and every design is unique. Plus they will also take in your preference and customize a design as per your requests.

And the work begins!

Vivien nail artist and manicurist attended to me, she explains that opting for hard gel would be easier to mould and design the nail art. So I went for the hard gel option, versus the soft gel.

Here’s Vivien using the machine to sand my nails and prep them before applying the gel. And how cute are her minion designed nails?! ^^

After the sanding, comes the gel application,

Close ups.

After each layer of gel applied there would be a short UV light period. As the period if very short, there should be no UV damage to the skin. Since we don’t do this daily as well. But if you’re worried, you can always remember to apply amply sunblock lotion to your hands and fingers before the session. 🙂

Here Vivien uses the nail covers to create a nice smooth gel layer on my fingers. Very cool huh?

After the fingers have all been gel coated, it’s once again sanded. So that the coloured gel can attach onto the gel.

Well, I didn’t have available hands to take photos of her painting the colours on, but check out the final results!

How pretty is this?! ^^ PLUS I love how she photographed my hands to look so pretty here..

A little more about J’s nails:

Established since 2007, J’s Nail started from a home-based nail art salon to become an active renegade force in the nail art industry. What comes with each therapeutic experience is not only the highest-quality nail art service, but also exclusive hours-on-end fun and enjoyment.

Services provided include Gel Manicure, Gel Pedicure, Nail Art, Manicure, Pedicure, Hand Spa and Foot Spa. Each is itself a different abyss to take you to various levels of relaxation.

J’s Nail believes in education, having been rigorously trained from Hong Kong Nail Collections Academy. From time to time, J’s Nail also works closely with the academy to keep the nail art profession up to date, and deliver the latest industry trends and choice to the customer.

Check out the certifications awarded to Joann Tsui, the founder and owner of J’s nails:

And here are the prices:

A nail design like mine shown above will cost $70 for hard gel service, + $58 for nail design, totalling SGD$128.
These nails will last 3-4 weeks, depending on how fast your nails grow. Usually they would recommend making your next appointment in advance. Also it is advisable to go back to them for removal service as it requires sanding. But no worries, as they will always leave a thin layer of gel covering your nails and will not actual sand your real nails! Thus your nails are kept protected. Vivien kindly explained all these to me because I’m on that’s afraid of thinning and nail breakage.

A photo with the talented Vivien~

More pretty pictures of my nail art in the natural sunlight~

I seriously love it, just waking up to pretty nails makes my day and makes me happy. My friends have all been admiring my nails too! ^^

Follow J’s Nails on Instagram: @JSNAILJSNAIL

Follow them on their Facebook here.

Make your appointment with J’s nail salon by phone:
Tel : +65 64647498
SMS : +65 93830014
Monday – Friday 10AM to 12PM by Appointment only.
Sat: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

From May 15 onwards, J’s Nails Salon will operate from Sembawang, at Block 415, Sembawang Drive, Singapore 750415.
Call / SMS / Whatapp +65 93830014 for appointment.

Thank you Joann and Vivien of J’s Nail Salon for your kind invitation!

Thank you for reading~ <3

Ena

Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle

Chacott & Freed of London’s Singapore Launch @ Mandarin Gallery

April 27, 2014 Ena Teo 5 Comments

When I was young, I dreamed of being a ballerina.

Perhaps it’s because of the graceful movements
or perhaps it’s because of the pretty tutus and lovely ballet flats that ballerinas donned~

Thus when I received this lovely invite, I looked forward to check out the new store opening…

There’s just something quite captivating and mesmerizing about ballerina’s tutu’s, fair stockings and flats right?

For the uninitiated, Chacott and Freed of London are two of the most esteemed labels in the ballet world. Both labels have a rich history of producing some of the best handcrafted pointe shoes adorned by the top ballet dancers around the globe, making the two labels the go-to brands for professional ballet dancers.

Well of course, having no experience in ballet, I’m no expert and can’t tell if this is indeed a fact. So I researched a bit online and I found an about article titled “9 Popular Brands and Styles of Pointe Shoes” by dancer Treva Bedinghaus, whom I’ll quote here:

Freed of London

Founded in London, England in 1929 by shoe maker Frederick Freed, Freed of London supplies pointe shoes to many of the leading ballet companies throughout the world. The company is one of few that boasts handmade pointe shoes, but they don’t last very long. There are six varieties of Freed Pointe shoes, but its “Classics” are the most popular and most easily recognized.

Chacott

Chacott is a subsidiary branch of Freed of London. Chacott pointe shoes are known for a short break-in period, an important feature to many dancers.

Now let’s check out the store!

The entrance of the store was graced by these lovely ballerina dresses:

The amount of details that goes into each dress is impeccable, and it’s what makes each dress so beautiful, precious and desired.

Do you fancy some cute ballet shoe key rings? 😉

Chacott also has a professional make up range, very aptly branded as Chacott for Professionals.

Chacott for Professionals makeup range is of assured quality, being made in Japan. The products are formulated for professional use and are resistant to sweat and liquids. It also has these key features:

– Suited for High definition TV
– UV protective effect (Non-chemical SPF/PA)
– Uses mainly vegetable extract, natural colorant – Gentle to the skin and safe for children
– Fragrance-free, Colour-free & Mineral oil-free

Chacott for Professionals’ particularly famous for their loose powders, which is also featured on Nylon’s beauty hit list 2014 reader’s choice.

Their colours range also features 25 unique shades of colour variation from its bold regular shades to its pearly Winking Series and vivid Varie-lining series, suitable for use as eyeshadow, blush, highlight, contour and more, each shade retails at SGD$22.

There are additionally 14 lip colours and 1 lip gloss, retailing at SCG$18 each. The colour range comes in singular palettes and can be fit into customized palettes created by Chacott. Chacott For Professionals Colours are intensely pigmented and they finish matte with a bright and vivid tone.

These are the customized 3 hole eyeshadow palettes and 4 for lip colours. The middle palette is customized by makeup artist Sarah Chaundry, titled ‘Arabian Nights’ with “gold blue and black to create a smokey look. Something different, from the usual combinations”.

On the right you’ll spot a lip palette customized by make up artist and also a fellow blogger friend Joanna Koh, titled ‘The Essential’. She says, “A lip palette with three basic, universally flattering shades. A glamourous red, a neutral and wearable blush pink, and an intense purple. You can wear them individually, blot them down for a sheer look or mix two to three shades together to get a whole new colour tone. Top it off with clear gloss for a beautiful sheen.”

Additionally, the store offers a range of dancing shoes and gymnastic and yoga apparels. Do check them out!

Visit the store at Mandarin Gallery #03-21A, 333A Orchard Road.

Also check out and follow them on Facebook here for interesting dance related updates and promotions!

A picture with lovely ladies, Ashley & Samantha of Samantha-Ashley.com, my friend Yan Ling, Shn and Jerlene of Musicalhouses!Follow me on instagram @ena_teo for my updates on the go. 😉

Thanks Camy of BeautyDirect for the invite & lovely goodies. :*

Thank you for reading~ <3

Ena

Starting off my review with Aqualabel’s Whitening Jelly Essence

Senka Mineral Essence UV

Tsubaki’s Head Spa

Share this:

Introduction of EcoBeau.

Introduction of TheOrangeCo.com.

Now time for review!

1. EcoBeau Natural Loess Water Foam Cleanser.

2. EcoBeau Natural Skin Toner

3. EcoBeau Whitening and Anti Wrinkle Natural Essence

4. EcoBeau Natural Nutritive Blemish Balm Plus SPF 28/PA++

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Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) Beauty boutique ION Orchard #B2-34

Estée Lauder ION Orchard B2-42

Dior Backstage Beauty ION Orchard B2-44/46

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Kosé Sekkisei Morning Skincare & Beauty Routine

1. White Liquid Wash, 140ml, $46 I use 1 pump, lather on my hands for a foamy and gentle facial cleansing.

After cleansing, I use 2. Emulsion, 140ml, $82 A small dose is sufficient moisturizer my entire face.

3. Sun Protect Essence Gel in 50+SPF PA++++, 80g, $50 is a milky gel that applies smoothly and keeps my face protected against the damaging sun rays. On days when I don’t want foundation (on days when I don’t have to attend to any appointments or events), I end my skincare at this step.

4. White BB cream, 30g, $39 Is my current go to BB cream. It’s lightweight yet provides a good coverage for a dewy look on camera. 🙂

With these 4 skincare and beauty products, my skin is pampered, protected and I’m good to go!

This is how I look after 2 weeks of using the products, photos with no filter.

Now onto my Kosé Sekkisei Night Skincare & Beauty Regime

1. Cleansing Cream, 140g, $44 in cherry size. I use a cotton pad to pick the cream up and I love how cooling and gentle this cream is on my skin.

2. Facial Liquid Wash(140ml, $46) in the shower, same as the day.

3. Clear Whitening Mask, 76ml, $35 Apply an even layer over face, avoiding the eyes, hair line and lips. It dries taut within 20 min and removes cleanly, along with pore hairs so that my face is shiny & smooth!

You have to apply a fair thick layer, it feels like I used up 1/10 of the bottle.

Remove the mask gently from the bottom first and then side, and try to remove from both sides of the face together with the nose being the last touch point, so that the mask removes the dirt and hair more effectively.

4. Lotion (100ml, $41). Apply using Kose’s cotton mask and leave on for 15 min. Leaving my skin hydrated.

Kose’s 100% Cotton Lotion Mask

Tip: Use the bottle cap of the lotion as a mini container.

Fill it up with the cotton in it.

Fill to the brim.

Till the cotton is fully absorbed with the Lotion goodness <3

Leave in on your face for 15 min. Pat down gently.

5. Night cream, 40g, $82 use in pearl size, I love how hydrating this is and it has a refreshing aqua scent.

6. Eye cream, 20ml, $82 use in rice grain size for each eye. I apply along with an eye massage, great for resting the eye.

I love how my skin is hydrated and fairer after this regime! No filter and yes, it’s a nice blush and rosy cheeks I have there. HEH.

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Myth 1: Cervical Cancer is not common, it can never happen to me

Myth 2: I am not at risk of Cervical Cancer as there is no such history in my family

Myth 3: Getting Cervical Cancer is linked to being sexually promiscuous

Myth 4: I am feeling well, I do not have HPV infection

Myth 5: If I have a normal Pap smear, it means I will not have cervical cancer

Myth 6: Pap smear program is effective, HPV vaccination is unnecessary

Myth 7: I am already sexually active, so the vaccine will not work for me

Myth 8: My daughter is too young to be vaccinated. She won’t be at risk of cervical cancer at the age of 10.

Myth 9: Vaccinating adolescents will encourage sexual promiscuity

Myth 10: I must wait for my daughter’s menses before vaccination

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Freed of London

Chacott

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Singapore's Lifestyle Blogger ☀

1. White Liquid Wash, 140ml, $46
I use 1 pump, lather on my hands for a foamy and gentle facial cleansing.

After cleansing, I use 2. Emulsion, 140ml, $82
A small dose is sufficient moisturizer my entire face.

3. Sun Protect Essence Gel in 50+SPF PA++++, 80g, $50
is a milky gel that applies smoothly and keeps my face protected against the damaging sun rays.
On days when I don’t want foundation (on days when I don’t have to attend to any appointments or events), I end my skincare at this step.

4. White BB cream, 30g, $39
Is my current go to BB cream. It’s lightweight yet provides a good coverage for a dewy look on camera. 🙂

1. Cleansing Cream, 140g, $44
in cherry size. I use a cotton pad to pick the cream up and I love how cooling and gentle this cream is on my skin.

3. Clear Whitening Mask, 76ml, $35
Apply an even layer over face, avoiding the eyes, hair line and lips. It dries taut within 20 min and removes cleanly, along with pore hairs so that my face is shiny & smooth!

5. Night cream, 40g, $82
use in pearl size, I love how hydrating this is and it has a refreshing aqua scent.

6. Eye cream, 20ml, $82
use in rice grain size for each eye. I apply along with an eye massage, great for resting the eye.