Sponsored Review and Giveaway: Cetaphil Skincare Regimen

Note: I used to put prices as a service for those who wanted to know, but I'm feeling this exposes my spendings abit too much, so I'm no longer going to put in prices. ^__^ Closed for comments. Winners to be announced at 9am on 06 Sep 09, Singapore time. Good Luck! :D I was very excited when a public relations representative of Galderma Singapore contacted me about providing Cetaphil products for trial and evaluation on my blog. I has previous positive experience using one of Galderma's star products, the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. Whenever I have an allergy or ezcema breakout, I tend to turn to Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser to give my skin a "break". It was prescribed by my doctor and I usually find it provides the optimum amount of gentle cleansing with very little aggravating ingredients. As stated in Galderma's letter, "Cetaphil family cleansers, moisturisers and sunscreen is a widely recommended over-the-counter skin care range by doctors for people with dry, sensitive skin or various common skin problems such as eczema, contact dermatitis or acne vulgaris." Galderma's trial and evaluation package that was sent to me included generous samples for a give-away to my blog readers. So keep reading for how to enter this give-away. My Trial and Evaluation Although I have used Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser before, I decided I should do a week-long trial on all the products that Galderma provided in their package. It includes a complete skincare regimen for cleansing, moisturing and sun-protection.

According to Galderma, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is "specially formulated for people who have dry and sensitive skin. As Cetaphil Gentle Skin cleanser is a non-soap cleanser, it leaves a moisturising film on the skin after use. The skin will gradually feel smoother and supple."

As promised, the cleanser is emollient and much better for people with dry skin. My skin is mostly dry and highly reactive. I found that when using Cetaphil cleanser, I don't need as much moisturiser as I normally do. If I'm only using a thin film of powder, I can use Cetaphil cleanser for makeup removal as well. It can be used either with or without water.

The only reason I don't use this as a regular cleanser is because I use waterproof makeup and I'm used to using a oil cleanser combined with a foaming cleanser. Otherwise, Cetaphil cleanser is good enough for every day use. It might be a bit too heavy for people with oily skin, hence Galderma recommends their products for people with "dry and sensitive skin or aging condition".

After cleansing, I used Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream. It doesn't feel heavy or oily but leaves a watery film that absorbs well into the skin. It moisturises well and I can feel it creates a barrier against the environment. Although it is non-comedogenic (does not clog pores), some people with oilier skin might find this a tad uncomfortable, but for me, it's actually a rather good thing.

Finally the Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense SPF 50+ is applied over the sun exposed areas. I am new to this sun protection product from Cetaphil. I didn't realise they produce this! I'm so pleased to have the opportunity to try it and I'm adding it to my list of affordable and effective sun protection products to buy! It's very light and the fact that it contains 7 sun filters and 1 sun blocker makes me feel I am well-protected against the harsh sunlight.

Conclusions

Overall, I find Cetaphil to be one of the better drug store skin care products that delivers what it promises and is suitable for gentle and non-aggravating cleansing, moisturising and protection. In the days when I was on a budget, I used Cetaphil exclusively and now I would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone with similar sensitive, dry or ageing and reactive skin.

Give-away: 5 Samples of Cetaphil Skincare Regimen

Galderma has provided 5 generous sized samples for readers. Since I will be paying for the shipping to readers and the samples are rather heavy, I must keep this give-away to Singapore readers only. Not to worry, I'll be doing some give-aways later for international readers, so you will not be left out. But for now, Singapore readers, please enter this give-away by doing the following:

1. Follow my blog
2. Post a comment beneath this post, on why you want to try Cetaphil's skincare regimen (do note that it's more suitable for readers with dry, sensitive or ageing skin concerns)

For the convenience of the lucky draw, I apologise that only comments for give-away will be allowed in this post and unrelated comments will be deleted.

Comments will be closed on 05 September 09, 0900PM Singapore time and five winners will be drawn by random number generator, and announced on 06 September 09, 1000AM Singapore time.

Good luck!! More exciting things will be unveiled on this blog in the coming weeks so keep a look out! :D

© Copyright. All rights reserved.

Discarding Old or Expired Products

Note: I used to put prices as a service for those who wanted to know, but I'm feeling this exposes my spendings abit too much, so I'm no longer going to put in prices. ^__^ Recently, I tried to be "thrifty" and use up some old cosmetics and skincare. First, I still had some eyeliner and undereye concealer left after my usual 2-3 months discard period. After a week of using them past their discard date, I found my eyes tearing up and the skin under my eyes itching. I decided I better just throw these "old" stuff away rather than risk any eye infection. True enough, after I started using new concealor and eyeliner, the itching and tearing stopped. Secondly, I had left a bottle of toner unused for some time and decided to use it up, instead of throwing it away. After all, I thought, it couldn't be spoilt after just almost a year unused? I kept it in the cupboard where I usually keep my products, so it's dark and cool. However, I found my skin erupting in patches of bumpy rashes! I decided it's too much to risk and threw out the toner, opening a new bottle of the same brand, I found my skin returning to it's normal state. So, if you find yourself trying to save money by using up old products past their use-by or discard date, do keep an eye out for possible reactions and allergies. Don't persist in using these items when you see reactions, as you might damage your skin or cause infections. It's cheaper in the long run to just discard these items and use fresh/new ones. By the way, I'll be unveiling a couple of sponsored posts in the new few days, so start following this blog if you haven't done so already. :D © Copyright. All rights reserved.

Review: Watsons Bird Nest Essence Facial Mask

Note: I used to put prices as a service for those who wanted to know, but I'm feeling this exposes my spendings abit too much, so I'm no longer going to put in prices. ^__^ Watsons Bird's Nest Essence Facial Mask is a paper mask that comes in a box of 6 and is also available as single packs. It is a Watsons house brand and is made in Korea. Here is the description and ingredient list from the back of the packaging. (click photo to enlarge) I use this mask at most only once a week. Usually, I'll use it once every two weeks. It's very moisturising and makes my face feel very smooth and supple. However, I feel it's too nourishing to use too often as I think it might make me break out in pimples, even though my skin is on the drier side. Hence, I think it may not be suitable for oily skins. Normally it retails for $14.95 per pack of 6. I purchased it once at $9.95 per pack with 2 free single packs. And at a recent Watson sale, it was sold at $9.95 per pack with an additional 20% discount if you spend above a certain amount. It's worth stocking up on this mask. I can't say enough good things about how supple and smooth it makes my skin. It's more economical to buy it in bulk as it is really a very good hydrating and nourishing mask and I don't mind having more of it to use. By the way, I've created a public Facebook account for blogging friends, so add me if you like here. I'm enjoying myself adding more friends and find it's quite fun to have a public account. :D Oh and I saw The Body Shop is having an atrium sale at Plaza Singapura. Do head there if you're looking for bargains on Body Shop items. :D © Copyright. All rights reserved.

Guest Review: Sheer Indulgence Facial at The World of Organic Skincare

Note: I used to put prices as a service for those who wanted to know, but I'm feeling this exposes my spendings abit too much, so I'm no longer going to put in prices. ^__^ Recently, Aichaku's Beautification was offered a no-holds barred, no-strings attached opportunity to review the Sheer Indulgence Face Spa, which is The World of Organic Skincare's signature non-invasive facial treatment that is customised according to individual skin concerns. Additionally it was a chance to learn more about the two main brands, Living Nature (NZ) and Organic Apoteke (UK) carried and distributed by The World of Organic Skincare. As the name of the company suggests, their products are organic and natural. The only request from the company was for honest and sincere feedback. Lucky reader, Pinky took up the offer and came back glowing. Here is her review of her experience. Sheer Indulgence Facial at The World of Organic Skincare by Pinky Thanks to Aichaku of Beautification, I got to sample the luxurious and aptly titled Sheer Indulgence Facial at The World of Organic Skincare. Firstly, some facts: The World of Organic Skincare is located at 468 River Valley Road, right opposite Valley Point Shopping Centre. Their number is 68380168 and other than facials, they also provide a whole menu of other spa services like nail treatments, massages and yes, even Brazillian waxing. The World Of Organic Skincare distributes 2 organic skincare brands: Living Nature, which is free from synthetic ingredients and preservatives, and Organic Apoteke, a line of organic cosmetics and skincare based on ayurvedic principles. I was hosted by the director of The World of Organic Skincare, Lawrence Chee and my therapist for the Sheer Indulgence facial was the lovely Mei Lin who is also the GM. The facial: The session started with my filling up a form, listing my typical skincare routine and my concerns regarding my skin. Mei Ling used this as an assessment tool for my facial as The World Of Organic Skincare customizes their facials according to different skin types. The only thing in common is the manuka honey mask because it is very gentle and suitable for all skin types. On top of that, I really like the fact that all their products are pumped out on the spot at the cocktail bar according to customers’ needs; nothing is pre-prepared. As I have sensitive skin, Mei Lin recommended that I use the Enzyme mask and the Hydrating mask rather than the Kaolin clay peel. The Kaolin clay peel is an exfoliating treatment which has the added benefits of brightening overall skin tone, with firming and lifting properties to boot. The facial started with makeup removal and cleansing. I had the option of testing out both the milk cleanser as well as the foaming cleanser. What was interesting to me is that the foam from the foaming cleanser actually comes from a plant called gum-digger's soap. No chemicals or foaming agents were used to create the suds which is rather magical for me :) This was followed by a deep cleansing mask for my T-zone area while the rest of my face was treated with the hydration mask. Exfoliation was gently done using the enzyme mask and I was treated to pampering massages while the masks were working on my skin. Then came the highlight of the facial: the Manuka honey mask. The honey was warmed up and massaged into my skin using a pair of special rose quartz crystal wands which were also heated to keep the honey pliable. The heat was comforting and the pressure from the rose quartz crystal wands were just right. I felt my facial muscles relax, much as if I've gone for a massage for my face. The facial ended with a hydrating mask to cool my skin and I emerged relaxed and ready to face the world. Thoughts: My skin was definitely glowing after the facial. Overall skin tone seemed evened out and I was able to walk out without the urge to put on my BB cream, with only the sunscreen Mei Lin used on me as my only sun protection. It was also interesting how the moisturiser and sunscreen did not turn sticky in our humid weather but remained relatively 'crisp' on my skin even after a couple of hours later. Another thing which I really liked was how smooth and glossy my lips were after using the Living Nature lip balm. With sensitive skin and lips that tend to peel after using lip balms, lip glosses, lipsticks, I'm leery of using stuff on my lips. However, the Living Nature lip balm changed my mind. Maybe I should really consider getting a tube for myself after all :) I also liked the fact that the facial is highly customised and the therapist is confident enough to "prescribe" the products used and the massage protocols in the facial were also tailored for my specific conditions. The only problem I had was with the location of the spa. It's not a biggie, in fact, they are very central and well-located, just that it's not near any train stations, so it's better if you drive or take the bus. For me, I'm more with the trains, so had to take a cab on the day of my appointment. But as I mentioned, it's not a biggie as they are very easy to locate. Do give them a try. For someone who's tried lots of skincare brands, it was an interesting experience to try out organic, natural skincare products which works just as well as other non-organic brands. © Copyright. All rights reserved.

Game Mania aka Other Things that Occupy My Time

Note: I used to put prices as a service for those who wanted to know, but I'm feeling this exposes my spendings abit too much, so I'm no longer going to put in prices. ^__^ This is a scheduled post. Besides being a full-time working mother who is a shopping maniac obsessed with fashion, bags, shoes, skincare and makeup, I am also a busy, busy, busy person playing with my new toys! I recently bought myself a DS Lite (and ofcourse the Hello Kitty cover, how can I miss that out), as it's very cheap now and have been playing games like Gardening Mama and Cooking Mama 2. A friend who has upgraded to the DSi, has offered to sell me her older games, I'm looking forward to getting more games to play. :D The husband also gave me his old iphone as he just got the new one that is recently released. I've loaded a tonne of applications from itunes shop! Very fun too. He especially bought a pink cover for me too, when he passed me his hand-me-down. LOL!! And check out my new PINK foldy-headphones! LOL! :D I've also been playing Pet Society and Restaurant City on facebook. :D My pet is called Meowie and she is mad about fishing, gardening and running races. :D Since I am now officially inducted into the gaming world, we decided to go to the recent Singapore Toys, Games & Comic Convention. It really isn't very exciting or vibrant but I think it's a good start. I almost bought some new PC games but sadly, was dragged away before I could make my decisions. I was especially intrigued by the Blythe display. I only own 1 Blythe doll but Blythe is a doll that has a big following in Singapore. I know some people who own whole cupboards of these dolls and experts who customise their dolls. I love the attention to detail that is made in these customisations. It's common knowledge that some people are freaked out by dolls, especially ones like Blythe. They never fail to loudly and openly make known to me their extreme horror and disgust with these dolls, despite knowing that I own some of them, LOL! Such tactless and insensitive people that I have as friends!!!??!?!!! Understandably (I'm a kind and forgiving person) it must be Chucky who spoilt the market. Other than antique dolls, which I love but will never want to own (I have a superstition about old dolls), I personally adore dolls as they bring out the girl in me. I don't dress up in lolita, but it's akin to people who dress up in lolita fashion and carry dolls. ;D © Copyright. All rights reserved.