ErucA Hair

"She is clothed in strength and dignity and she laughs without the fear of the future."

Proverbs 31:25

ErucA, a Japanese haircare brand with its range of botanical oil infused shampoos and conditioners has finally arrived in Singapore. ErucA focuses on seed oils (e.g. broccoli, bilberry, cowberry etc) that coats the hair naturally with a sleek, shiny finish without the harmful effects of silicone agents which prevent nutrients from reaching the hair. The moisturizing and shine-inducing formula also contains other rich botanically-sourced oils such as argan, virgin prune and marula oil to help with the rejuvenation of tresses. Sample Store x ErucA has kindly sent the whole range of products for me to try out. There are three different ranges- Moist & Repair, Scalp & Volume and 3D Volume Up.

ErucA's Moist & Repair collection does not strip your hair of the natural oil, restores water and oil balance in your hair and scalpe for frizz-free hair. The Scalp & Volume collection repairs the scalp and alleviate common scalp problems like itchiness and dandruff. Extra Volume Up collection thus wraps the whole hair in a thin veil to create volume from the roots without the use of harmful hair products.

As many of you should have known, I'm largely dependent on my shampoo but not that much on hair mask/ conditioner (I barely use them). Other than the different products functions, I believe what many girls look out for in shampoos is the scent. Scalp &amp Volume range smells the sweetest (closer to that of Japanese grape-flavoured gummy), Volume Up range smells citrus-y and Moist & Repair range being the least feminine smell of all.

Personally, Volume Up shampoo ranks the first on my list out of the three ranges. Reason being, the smell is feminine but not as sweet as that of the Scalp & Volume shampoo. Secondly, my hair retained the volume longer than when other shampoos were used. I also realised that the lather formed when using Volume Up shampoo is thicker (less shampoo needed) while the Scalp & Volume shampoo feels lighter.

There isn't any significant difference that I observe in my hair but definitely softer and less limpy/ flat on the top. There is only so much a shampoo can do, to lay a good foundation. A little goes a long way :>

ErucA products are suitable for all hair types especially dry scalps caused by excessive sebum removed by shampoos. Tip*: For short hair, use shampoo the size of 10-c coin. Average length hair, use shampoo the size of a 50-c coin and for long hair, use the amount equivalent to the size of two 20-c coins.

*I find that the recommended amount of shampoo is way lesser than what I need for my chest-to-waist long hair. I need at least 2-3 pumps.

ErucA are available at Guardian,Tokyu Hands as well as e-store Maimee's Corner, each retailing for $18.90 to $22.90. Don't forget to 'like' ErucA's facebook page here to participate in contests to win prizes! There will be ongoing contests for CNY and thereafter (weekly contests). Also hop over to Sample Store to redeem your free ErucA samples here.

Thank you Sample Store x ErucA Singapore!

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P.S. Pardon the different lightings because pictures were taken on separate conditions. Some pictures were taken earlier when products were received. Others were added after trying out the products.

Faith in Face Hydrogel Masks

I have to admit: I have not tried any hydrogel mask prior to receiving this set of Faith in Face hydrogel masks, no.1 hydrogel mask brand in Korea which was first launched in 2012. Led by a multinational team, Faith in Face uses only organic and naturally derived extracts and are free of parabens and mineral oils. Faith in Face are specially formulated to be gentle on the skin and no animal testing has been performed.

Faith in Face was kind enough to send over a box of three different types of masks. Do note that this is only for reviewing purpose. The boxes that are retailing in stores consist of three masks of the same variant.

Received the Nourish Me (for vital nourishing), After Shower Look (for soothing and moisturizing) and Black & White Film Star (for whitening). There are two other variants available in stores but are not included in this review- Hold Me Tight (for lifting and firming) and Invisible Pore (for pore tightening).

Directions: Cleanse your face before applying the mask. There is a thin and thick protector for each (top and bottom, yes this is a two-piece mask!) mask. Carefully remove the thin protector to expose the smooth side. Apply the smooth side to your face, then remove the thick protector. Adjust both the top and bottom masks to fit the curves of your face. Discard after 30 minutes and gently pat your face to allow the serum to be absorbed.

As you can see, the mask doesn't fit my face nicely which is the main problem with all sheet masks anyway. I definitely expected more because of the two-piece design which is supposed to have a better fit but I guess not. Another thing was that I had to lie down when masking because the bottom piece kept sliding down. The mask in the picture above is the After Shower Look for soothing and moisturizing. Yes, it does what it's supposed to do, my skin feels hydrated after application. What I was more satisfied and surprised about- 1) absorption was really fast and 2) the brightening effect was quite significant.

You can get your preferred choice of masks (box of three, same variant) at $14.50, exclusively at Watsons. If you'd like to read more about Faith in Face, hop over to their Facebook page for more information.

Thank you Sample Store x Faith in Face for sending these over, x

Essential CC Oil and Night Care Milk

As you might already know, I'm a big fan of Essential & I've been using their products since 8 years ago. The Samplestore x Essential team has kindly sent me a parcel! (Check out my past reviews on Essential products here: 1 2) This time, I received the newly launched Essential CC Oil and Essential Night Care Milk in the box, together with five stress balls. The five stress balls signify the five common hair stresses caused by external environmental factors or personal habits:

1. Blow-drying: Blow-drying removes moisture from the hair, not just on the surface but also on the inside - leaving hair dry, brittle and susceptible for further damage

2. Combing: Combing through wet hair causes great hair damage as the hair follicle is at is most fragile state. Similarly, combing through dry hair leads to hair knots which makes your hair prone to unnecessary breakage. Even the simplest action that you perform everyday can lead to hair damage!

3. Split Ends: As the hair grows longer, it grows older and the protective hair cuticle is destroyed at the end of the hair. When that happens, the hair splits into two or more parts- simply termed as split ends.

4. Hair Breakage: Heat styling, blow drying, brushing and other seemingly harmless actions like tying or twirling your hair exert excessive stress on your hair, resulting in hair breakage.

5. Dryness: Dry hair can be caused by exposure to sun, air conditioning, wind etc. The hair cuticle that protects the hair is weakened, resulting in the inability to retain moisture within the cuticles of the hair, making the hair dry and rough.

I have relatively good hair (I presume), partly because I haven't done any heat or chemical treatment to my hair before and also, I'm lazy. I don't blow dry, comb, tie nor style my hair, I basically just shampoo my hair. One hair stress that I encounter is dryness, though not to the extent of split ends, since I do not have the habit of conditioning my hair,

Launched in September 2015, the Essential CC Oil (day) and Night Care Milk (night) work hand in hand to tackle the five common problems. The Cuticle Care Oil, called CC Oil in short, works the same way as how CC cream in skincare works. This product contains hair supplement oil similar to the hair's natural oil forming a protective coat around each strand, resulting in beautiful and more manageable hair.

I have tried one brand of hair oil that was unfortunately, extremely greasy to touch. I stoppped using it altogether after that. The Essential CC oil turned out different from my expectation, beyond my expectation. The absorption was fast, left no sticky after feel though the difference on my hair was only slightly visible. I guess it depends on the extent of frizziness of your hair.

The other product in mail, Essential Night Care Milk which protects your hair from 'pillow friction'. Few may know about the  hair damage that tossing and turning could cause. The 'pillow friction' during the tossing and turning results in the misalignment of hair cuticle, more commonly known as frizzy hair. Washing the hair can  'reset' the mane but that means having to wake up early in the morning to do so. Why bother when you can skip that and have your beauty sleep? Just apply the Night Care Milk before going to bed.

Pump an appropriate amount onto palm. Spread and apply evenly onto hair, concentrating on mid-length to tip of hair. Go ahead and plop into your bed! For best results, use on dry hair.

The Night Care Milk smells just the same as their shampoo, slightly floral scented. For this product, the absorption took a longer time compared to the CC oil. Be sure to spread it evenly on your palm. I was too quick to apply it on my hair before spreading it which resulted in lumps (think oily fringe). A little goes a long way, pillow friction is inevitable so start caring for your hair today. Personally I prefer the CC oil which can be applied any time during the day. Fuss-free and I do not have to worry when I forget to apply the Night Care Milk before I sleep.

If you want to win weekly prizes for yourself, play the Essential’s Mane Hero Facebook game. All you have to do is to defeat the Hair Stress Brothers and Pesky Pillow King!

The Essential CC Oil and Essential Night Care Milk retails at $11.90 each.

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Thank you Samplestore x Essential!

Esemtan Skin Balm & Wash Lotion

I received two items in the mail this week- Esemtan Wash Lotion & Esemtan Skin Balm. This product is suitable for all skin types. Yes, you heard me right. People with dry and sensitive skin always have to extra cautious when it comes to the selection of skincare products, most of which smell like sanitizer. Basically, just very 'clinical'- imagine walking into hospital/ clinic that has just been sterilized. Everyone wants to smell nice after showers or even a simple handwash!

Featuring a balanced combination of fragrance and a gentle lather, Esemtan Wash Lotion with pH-neutral formula is effective in removing dirt and oil from skin. This soapless wash is usable from head to toe and for all skin types including babies and elderly, even in cases of hypersensitivity to soap. It protects the skin against irritation and supports the skin's natural moisture.

Esemtan Wash Lotion can be used like soap/ shower lotions while taking showers. If used for handwashing, use approximately 2-3ml of wash lotion. Froth it by adding some water before washing thoroughly. This product has a mild fragrance but I thought it smells a little like laundry products. One thing that I like though, the wash lotion doesn't take away the natural oil on my skin.

Another item that I received was the Esemtan Skin Balm, an oil in water product that is meant for general skin care. It provides ample moisturising benefits, including oil and moisture, to the skin with its mildly fragrant and rapidly absorbed moisturising cream for hand and body care. Permeating deeply and absorbed rapidly into skin, itchiness is reduced. Urea is also present in the skin balm to maintain skin moisture balance, rehydrating and suppleness of skin.

Recommended to use daily, morning and evening after each wash. This smells like other lotions you can find in drugstores, which probably means it's good news. Dry and sensitive skin users can now smell as good. The scent of the skin balm tends towards the powdery side and smells much stronger in comparison to the wash lotion.

Demo:

Esemtan products are available at Guardian, Unity, Watsons, Independent pharmacy (Pink Beauty, Beatuy Essential), NHG. Retailing at: Esemtan Wash Lotion- $19.75/500ml, $35.30/1L Esemtan Skin Balm- $20/500ml

Thank you Samplestore & Esemtan for sending the products!

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel

Factual Information
Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays without proper protection can cause permanent effects such as premature skin ageing, wrinkles, discolouration etc. In extreme cases, skin cancer. However, a survey done in 2014 revealed that only 30% of the woman between aged 12- 49 years old apply sunscreen daily. The main reason behind this: Sticky, greasy feeling that sunscreen leaves behind.

**Tip: Sunscreen products are rated based on two systems: SPF & PA.

SPF rating determines the duration that your skin stays protected from UVB rays.
The calculation method is simple - SPF Rating x no. of minutes for skin to darken under sun = No. of minutes skin is protected from UVB rays. (Example, SPF50 x 20mins = 1000mins of protection from UVB (equivalent to 16 hours of protection)). A sunscreen with the rating of SPF50 is sufficient coverage, as it blocks up to 98 percent of UVB rays from penetrating into skin. Anything higher than a SPF50 rating compromises on the texture of the sunscreen, making it heavier and greasier when applied to skin.

PA rating shows how much protection you're receiving against UVA rays. Currently, the highest standard of PA protection in the industry is PA++++.

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Biore's newest launch of products provides the highest level of UV protection AND comes in light and watery texture, giving a cool and refreshing feel upon application.

This time, I received the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel (SPF 50+/PA++++).

Product benefits include UV block with enhanced SPF50+/PA++++ that gives maximum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun. At the same time, the product retains its light and watery texture that allows smooth application without a sticky feel and also, it is infused with hyaluronic acid & citrus extract to keep skin hydrated and fresh, It is suitable for application on face and body.

Product Review

Texture is more liquidy as compared to other sunscreens, which means it's easier to spread although I don't feel that it gives a completely dry and fresh after-feel. The product packaging is quite a huge bottle and while it may not be the best option to carry it around, this also means that it's value-for-money!

The new Bioré Aqua Rich Watery Gel retails at SGD18.90/ 90ml. Available at all leading pharmacies, super & hyper markets, departmental stores, beauty stores and selected minimarts. For more information on the products, do check out their website- http://www.kao.com/sg/


Thank you Biore x Sample Store for sending this over.

Palmer's White & Even range

Something came in mail, this time from Palmer's team!

Factual Information

Other than wrinkles & loss of firmness, discoloration is one other significant and perceivable sign of aging. That's when you hear people talk about wanting EVEN skin tone. Discoloration, or hyperpigmentation, can be caused by many factors and the most common cause: UV exposure. Palmer’s White and Even™ range are free of parabens, phthalates, sulphates, harsh or synthetic dyes and fragrances and is appropriate for all skin types. It is a "one product fits all" because of the skin tone correcting formulation which means you can save the hassle of choosing one that fits your skintone or worse still, spend your money getting the wrong one.

Palmer's tone perfecting range contains six tone enhancing complex, one of which is Synovea. Synovea complex is as effective at lightening skin as Hydroquinone 2%. When used daily, surface skin cells can be expected to lighten to form more even skin tone within 3-5 days. For effect on deeper skin layers to inhibit over production of melanin (melanin results in brown skin cells). it takes 4-6 weeks depending on individual.

It is also important to note that sunscreen protection is important as continued sun exposure will negate the effects of the product. Discontinued use may allow overproduction of melanin to resume and dark spots will return.

For those who're lazy to read the chunk above, check out this video!

Product Review
Palmer's White & Even Dark Spot Corrector ($29.90/ 30ml) with Vit-C & Songyi Mushroom, visibly targets dark spots, age spots, post-acne scars and sun damage.

I just received this product not long ago, unable to say if it works well for me. The product leaves a slightly sticky after-feel. Those who're interested in the results, email me (after two weeks)!

Palmer's White & Even CBB Cream ($22.90/ 30ml) naturally tinted for even skin tone. "Prime, Perfect, Protect", targets discoloration.

I got to say I'm impressed with this CBB (correcting beauty balm) cream. The consistency is like your usual BB/CC cream when you squeeze it out but it's a different story when you spread it. It is similar to that of a lotion (think lightweight and easy to spread). The CBB cream does well in areas such as covering redness, minimizing pores and brightening skin but because it's lightweight, coverage is minimal. Do remember to apply some powder at the end if you like it matte because the product brightens, leaves a shine on your face and has a greasy after-feel. I'm still quite impressed by how fine the cream is!

Palmer's White & Even range is available at Watsons, Guardian, BHG, Robinsons, John Little, Essentials Pharmacy, Nishino Pharmacy, all leading pharmacies, departmental and cosmetics stores.

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Thank you Sample Store & Palmer's for sending this over.

Biore Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover

I'm not sure if you guys know about this: I've been using Biore makeup remover & I have only tried Biore's make-up removers. Recently, Sample Store sent me a new & improved version of the Biore Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover!

As the name of product suggests, the Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover is a jelly-like textured makeup remover that is gentle on skin and at the same time, capable of dissolving all traces of makeup without any harsh tuggling or pulling action on skin. The new & improved version contains 40% moisturizing essence, leaving the skin nourished and hydrated. Most importantly, the makeup remover can be removed with just water. Non-greasy/ sticky after-feel is the #1 key point that I look for in ALL products. I've been emphasizing on that in almost all my posts because I simply dislike sticky after-feel.

For those who are thinking that there is no need for any makeup remover because you do not apply makeup, you're wrong! Sunblock is an essential thing in our daily routine but most of the sunblocks available in the market nowadays are waterproof. Hence there is a need to use a makeup remover to remove it. The Biore Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover is suitable for all skin types.

First, pump an appropriate amount (2-3 pumps) onto hands and spread evenly over face and eye area. (Notice the consistency of the product, it tends towards watery rather than sticky.)

Massage gently to dissolve makeup and rinse thoroughly with water. For best results, apply on dry face and hands instead of facial cotton pad or tissue. Continue with your normal cleansing routine afterwards. Demonstrating via the use the eyeliner in this case, took less than 20s to dissolve the eyeliner completely.

Biore Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover retails at $24.90 at all leading supermarkets, personal care stores and western pharmacies & departmental stores from April 2015.

Thank you Sample Store x Biore Singapore for sending this over!

Palmer's Rapid Moisture Spray Lotion Deep Moisture

I received another Palmer's product in mail one or two weeks back & here to review it! (If you have not read my previous review on the Palmer's Skin Therapy oil, click here)

This time, I received the Palmer's Rapid Moisture Spray Lotion Deep Moisture, endorsed by Sonia Sui 隋棠. It really wasn't in my expectation to receive a moisture spray that actually smells like chocolate. I mean, if you are a big fan of chocolate, I presume you wouldn't mind walking around smelling like that!

Palmer's Rapid Moisture Spray Lotion Deep Moisture provides deep moisture in an instant. Sprays on easily and allows for quick absorption with their RapidSorb® Technology, leaving skin soft and smooth with 24 hour moisturization. (This product is also Paraben & Phthalate Free.)

Three main ingredients that the moisture spray contains:

1) Cocoa Butter: a rich natural moisturizer that leaves skin soft and silky, tranforming even the roughest, driest areas.

2) Vitamin E: a powerful antioxidant that helps improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks and imperfections on the skin, giving a more even and toned appearance.

3) Shea Butter: deeply moisturizes and nourishes to leave dry soft and radiant.

For best results, hold it three to four inches away from your skin before spraying in a continuous motion. Then, gently rub it in.

This is how it looks like when you spray it out. I am really curious (and a little amazed) about how Palmer's achieve that non-greasy formula when the product contains shea butter & cocoa butter?! It's really non-greasy though. I sprayed at least four to five times while taking these pictures and well, all dry to the touch. Wow.

As much as I love how it is available in a spray can and that it is really non-greasy, the smell really does get to me (please keep it in mind that I'm not a fan of cocoa). Furthermore, the dispenser clogs up quite easily and well, holding the spray three to four inches away and spraying isn't the best thing you can do when you're at home unless you love cleaning up.

Palmer's Rapid Moisture Spray Lotion Deep Moisture is available at Watsons, Guardian, Fairprice, BHG, Robinsons, John Little and leading cosmetic stores. (RTP: S$17.90/200g)

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For those who're interested to know moreabout Palmer's,

their #1 formula, Cocoa Butter Formula, is one of Palmer’s key offering in its wide range of skincare. Today, Palmer’s is still committed to creating affordable products that really do work, growing to provide a Palmer’s product for every skincare need : hand and body care, facial care, stretch mark care, hair care, body care and personal care. Palmer’s is against animal testing and all of the products are cruelty free. Majority of Palmer’s products are free of parabens, phthalates and sulphates.

Thank you Palmer's & Sample Store for sending this over!

ClearSK® Aqua Acne Clear Renewal Facial

Hello guys, back with a post amidst my exams preparation!

About a month ago, I received an invitation from Sample Store to try out ClearSK® Aqua Acne Clear Renewal Facial (4 sessions). I was arranged to have my treatment at the Novena Velocity outlet & they have another outlet at Novena Medical Centre.

The interior, blue & white themed, gives a clean and calming first impression.

At the counter, they have a touch screen monitor where you'll scan your IC to "register". One session will then be deducted from your package and you will also get to see the number of remaining sessions. It's really fast because this way, you won't have to wait for someone to serve you for that!

Corner to chill when your therapist prepares the room for you. 

Tea & warm towel served.

Here's how the room looks like. The room is really small, you can barely have two people walking around at the same time. There's a locker provided for you to keep your personal belongings just beside the bed. I love their comforter blanket, really soft and comfortable unlike what you normally see in other facial outlets. And a plus point, the room temperature isn't freezing cold.

Before I move on, the purpose of the Aqua Acne Clear Renewal Facial treatment is to get rid of dead skin cells, maintain acne prone or combination skin, correct scars, reduce fine lines and balance out uneven skin tone.

Cleansing the face before proceeding with the first step of treatment.

Machine that's used for this treatment.

(L: Cleansing/ R: Diamond Microdermabrasion)

STEP 1

Diamond Microdermabrasion helps to exfoliate the superficial layer of the skin. I asked to take a picture of the before/ after and here's how it looks like. This was on my third session. Notice how the cotton on the left has specks of black dots.

(L: After/ R: Before)

STEP 2

Moving on, application of three types of acid.

1) Lactic Acid for anti-oxidant purposes- to combat free radicals and environmental damage to the surface of the skin. (Balance pH of the skin)

2) Salicylic Acid ideal for oily and acne prone skin type- to calm the skin and prevent outbreaks. (Control the oil)

3) Hyaluronic Acid for hydrating and softening- to hydrate the skin making it supple, smooth, soft as well as reducing fine lines. (Replace the moisture)

STEP 3

Final step is the application of a mask. I personally do not fancy the use of sheet mask since most facial clinics, depending on your skin condition, apply different clay masks. Just felt like it wasn't exactly "customized". 

There were no sense of discomfort during my treatment although some will feel a tingling sensation when applying the different acids.

(L: Application of acids/ R: Mask)

So here's the before and after pictures of my face after the third session. The immediate effect is definitely there. I have very large pores and therefore, it was a visible change in pore size, especially near the nose/cheek area.

Lastly, the service of the therapists- good but can be better. I was quite puzzled when I was served the tea and warm towel on the third session because it didn't happen during the first two sessions. And what's weird was that, the service was better on a weekend compared to weekday. I was asked if I'd like some tea again after treatment and that definitely did not occur on the first two visits. Maybe visiting them during weekends would get you better service?

ClearSK Medi-Aesthetics Clinique

238 Thomson Road

Velocity @ Novena Square, #02-46B

Singapore 307683

Thank you for the invitation, Sample Store & ClearSK!

Cheers, x