Review: Lafe’s Organic Lip Balm

There are times when my lips are feeling dry despite drinking water. It could be the changing temperature/weather. I want to put on a lip balm whenever I feel like that. Other brands I’ve tried before have beeswax or petroleum jelly/petrolatum based products. They’re not that moisturizing from my experience. My lips felt dry and flakey after few uses.

I went to Healthy Options to buy snacks two months ago. I was also hoping that I’ll find a good lip balm. There I saw Lafe’s Organic Lip Balm. My favorite deodorant is from the same brand. I didn’t think twice to get their lip balm.

Here are the ingredients. It’s unflavored and fragrance-free.

Surprisingly it doesn’t cause dryness and flakiness although there’s beeswax in it. It’s because most of its ingredients are oils which are very moisturizing. It glides on smoothly and easily. It gives a subtle shine but not to the point that I look like I just ate lechon. It doesn’t feel heavy. Like with other products, don’t over apply because little goes a long way with this. So now I like to use this every night. I wake up in the morning with soft lips. Before quarantine, I applied this under my liquid lipstick. It’s organic, unflavored and fragrance-free. No gimmicks.

It’s pretty simple but really does the job well. That’s what’s important, right? It’s fairly priced at 145 pesos. I was impressed how moisturizing this is. I stopped looking for other lip balms. I recently bought my second tube online through Healthy Options. It’s definitely one of my favorite products from their shop.

Review: Derma E Sun Defense Mineral Oil-Free Sunscreen Face

There’s so much going on right now. I hope you are all well and safe. I’m posting again to distract myself a bit. Last year, I was searching for reef-safe face sunscreen for our Siargao trip. I came across Derma E’s website and saw their Mineral Oil-Free Sunscreen. Luckily, it’s available at Healthy Options here in the Philippines along with their other products.

Description from Derma E’s website:
With clear, nanoparticle-free Zinc Oxide, this formula provides safe, chemical-free broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection without irritating skin or clogging pores. Fortified with antioxidants Vitamin C and Green Tea — nutrients that have been shown to offer an additional layer of UV protection, help skin recover after sun exposure and fight and reduce the signs of aging for vibrant, younger-looking skin. Ideal for daily use alone or under makeup, this formula glides on evenly, absorbs quickly and leaves a sheer, lightweight, non-greasy finish. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, sensitivity tested, fragrance-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, GMO-free and 100% vegan.

Ingredients aside from Zinc Oxide 20%:

Pros:
– Fairly priced at Php 825 for 56 grams
– Available locally at Healthy Options
– Easy to apply
– Doesn’t add up to my skin’s oiliness
– Has a slight sheen, not matte
– Oil-free
– Feels light on the skin
– No artificial fragrance and no essential oils
– Did not trigger my contact dermatitis
– Did not cause breakouts during our 5-day beach trip
– Protected my skin and spots from burning and from further darkening

Cons:
– It’s brand new but the seal was already removed from tube.
– Clogs my pores after a few days when I use it here in the city
– It pills if applied too much

The consistency is a bit lotion-y that glides on easily. Make sure to shake the bottle first. It has a slight sheen to it.  I blot my skin with tissue after and it still has the glowing healthy look. It still has the sunscreen texture but it’s lightweight. It doesn’t leave a white cast on my skin. It didn’t clog my pores nor cause breakouts when I used it for 5 days at the beach. I did not sweat as much even if we also had a whole day of land tour. I was wearing a cap most of the time and the lower part of my face was still exposed to the sun. My face did not get a tan and my hyperpigmentations even on the chin area did not get darker. That’s how I can tell that this product worked.

I really wanted to use this daily when I get back to reality but I can’t. The city’s humidity, pollution, activities like commuting and the sweat add up to clog my pores. I still keep my face bare, no moisturizers or sunscreen. I wear a cap when I’m going out.

This is free of artificial fragrance and essential oils. Benzyl Alcohol is third to the last in the ingredients list. Meaning it has least concentration. Most natural products have it as replacement for parabens and fragrance. I did not have allergic reaction to this product. I’m just putting it out there in case anyone has an allergy to this specific alcohol type.

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This sunscreen pills like when you use a pencil eraser as you can see on the photos above. You really have to estimate how much sunscreen you need to avoid the pilling from happening. That usually happens with non-nano zinc oxide. It’s best to apply it gradually to avoid pilling. The seal wasn’t attached to the tube and the sales associate said it usually happens with this product. It would be better for Derma E to put it in the box facing upwards instead of facing down. Zinc oxide is a bit sticky so that might have loosen the seal.  Double cleansing is the best way to remove it completely. Use a cleansing oil/water first then proceed to facial wash.

Other than that, it’s a good sunscreen. I also tried using this under makeup and it doesn’t interfere with my matte base. This sunscreen is zinc oxide based which works well for my sensitive skin and it’s reef-safe. I would’ve used this daily if the weather here is not humid and if I don’t commute. My oily skin can’t take any kind of sunscreen and heat at the same time. This would’ve been the best face sun protection for me.

Review + Swatch: Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation in 118 Light Beige

Hi everyone! I’m sticking to my skin care routine that’s why I haven’t posted anything new. So for now, I’ll be talking about makeup. Maybelline’s Fit Me Foundation was hyped all over the internet. I finally decided to try it last year.

Description:
Fit Me® Matte + Poreless Foundation face makeup. This lightweight foundation mattifies and refines pores and leaves a natural, seamless finish. Full ingredients on their website

Pros:
-Affordable, 399 pesos for 30ml (usually on sale at 299 pesos)
-Wide range of shades
-Available in-stores and online
-Pump dispenses the foundation easily
-Doesn’t feel heavy on the skin
-Minimizes the appearance of pores
-Helps with oil control
-Did not cause breakouts
-Sets into powder finish

Cons:
-Still gives subtle flashback for me
-Fades at the end of the day

Neutral:
-Light coverage

Fit Me has a sturdy glass packaging with a plastic cap. It’s comes with a pump which makes it easier to dispense. Their first release didn’t have one. For a drugstore brand, this has a good shade range already.

First thing I noticed when I used it was the lightweight feel. It sets into powder finish so make sure to blend well fast. Despite the finish, I always set it with loose powder. I have oily skin with dry patches on some areas. It does help with oil control for about 1 to 2 hours. It still need to blot every hour, that’s just my skin type.

This is a good choice if you want to look “low key” made up. The powder finish minimizes pore appearance and makes the skin look fresh. It doesn’t move or doesnt leave streaks when I’m on public transpo. It did not cause breakouts/irritation which is a big plus for me.

The subtle flashback and its longevity are downsides for me. The flashback could be caused by silica. I’m not sure if this has sunscreen. This foundation fades after 8 hours for my oily skin even when I set with powder. This has light to medium coverage depending on the brush and skin condition. Light coverage if you use your finger and buildable to medium if you’ll use a brush. This could easily cover redness. You’ll need concealer for other hyperpigmentation. But still, the pros outweigh cons.

I always buy when it’s on sale and I also get additional discount when I use my SM Advantage points. I just bought my fourth bottle last week. That alone tells how much I like this foundation.

Oh btw this isn’t related to beauty but with all that’s happening right now… Let’s practice good hygiene. Let’s wash our hands, stay healthy and stay safe.🙏🏻

Review: A’BLOOM BHA Blackhead Blaster, Face Masks and Meringue Puffs

Hello readers! It’s been a while since I reviewed korean skin care. I’m still healing but I’m slowly using different products again. I received a package last month and it’s from A’BLOOM. It’s an exclusive brand from Althea. I was excited to try the blackhead balm out of all the product in the box. I’m using them for 2 weeks now and here are my experiences.

BHA Blackhead Blaster

Blackhead out without the ouch

HOW TO USE: After cleansing, apply onto targeted areas with excessive sebum. Gently massage in circular motions to release trapped oil and dirt. Rinse of with lukewarm waterThis blackhead balm has white willow bark extract (natural BHA), charcoal, apricot seed and tea tree oil. I’ve used this for a couple of times already on my nose area. It’s not as sensitive as other parts of my face. I was pretty confident to try this on that area since this product is free of artificial fragrance. First thing I noticed was the cooling effect while I’m swirling it around. I believe it’s the tea tree oil in it. I’m actually amazed how it removed the majority of my blackheads. The remaining spots are easier to push out compared to using  a remover tool alone. My nose looked clean and smooth after rinsing with lukewarm water. It exfoliates without being harsh. It doesn’t leave any redness even though I have hypersensitive skin. This can also be used on other parts of the face or body where you’re prone to blackheads or if you just feel the need to exfoliate. Best of all, it’s only 200 pesos.

Giant and Baby Meringue Puffs

High density latex-free foams

HOW TO USE: Use it dry for extra coverage or use it wet for dewy effect and a subtle finish. These puffs should be replaced every 1 to 3 months.

The Giant Meringue Puff is used for big areas while the Baby Puff is for hard to reach areas. They’re really soft and cute too. They made my makeup application smoother. There’s also less visible pores compared with finger application or a stippling brush. My foundation did not look cakey as it did not sit on top. It was set beautifully and clung to my skin that increased the longevity. The giant puff saved me some time to apply foundation for the whole face. I really like the baby puff for my eyelids, undereye and sides of my nose and mouth. It’s bothersome when the lashes have some foundation. I didn’t need mascara to clean my lashes when I used baby puff around my eyes. They are latex-free and did not trigger my contact dermatitis.

They all expand when it comes in contact with water. But when you let them dry after cleaning, they return back to normal size.

The only downside with these puffs for me is the cleaning part. I find it difficult to remove the stains. As you can see the set above, the other puff still has a stain of my foundation. I cleaned them with a cleansing foam which I also use for my brushes. My foundation is liquid-y and sets in quickly so that might also be a factor.

Giant Puff is 100 pesos while the Baby Puff Set is 140 pesos. They should be replaced 1 to 3 months depending on how often you use them. It’s nice that they included that info for hygiene purposes. 

Face Masks

Avocado is for nourishing, Lemon Lime for brightening, Watermelon for moisturizing and Peach for anti-blemish. Can I just say I love puns and the name Avo-Cuddle Me is so cute! These masks are made from eucalyptus tree. It’s eco friendly and safe to use on the skin. It’s important to know where the sheets are made from especially if you have sensitive skin. The mask is thin that you could still see your own skin underneath. My sister is loving this routine right now. She used Peach and she said there was no stinging sensation. The mask is filled with serum so it’s very moisturizing and calming. She didn’t have any irritation. It’s 20 pesos each and you can get a set of 10 for 180 pesos. 

 Overall, my sis and I are satisfied with everything we’ve tested. BHA Blackhead Blaster is now a part of my simple routine. I’ll be adding it in my next Althea order. Their face masks are hoarded by customers. A’BLOOM has a good start with this impressive collection. I’m looking forward to their releases in the future. These are available on Althea’s website and mobile app.

 

 

Review: CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

My current routine consists of cleansing oil and facial wash only as I’m going through Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW). I must say my skin is getting better when I started using less products. I reviewed CeraVe’s Cleanser Bar before and it worked for my skin’s sensitivity. I wanted to give this brand another shot so I browsed their website. I checked all the ingredients list of their products I’m interested in. After checking, I’m thinking that the Foaming Facial Cleanser would be the best fit for me.

Description:
A foaming facial cleanser is ideal for removing excess oil, dirt and makeup but it’s important to choose a formula that won’t disrupt the skin’s natural protective barrier. It’s also beneficial to choose a gentle cleanser with ingredients that help maintain moisture balance. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser features ceramides hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to help reinforce the skin’s barrier, attract hydration and soothe the skin.

Ingredients:
Purified Water, Cocamidopropyl Hydrosultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, PEG 150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Niacinamide, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Propylene Glycol, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 6-II, Ceramide 1, Hyaluronic Acid, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine, Citric Acid, Edetate Disodium, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum

Pros:
– Affordable
– Little goes a long way
– Gives enough lather
– Easy to rinse
– Leaves no film/oily residue
– Doesn’t dry out my skin
– Helps to push out black/whiteheads
– Left me feeling clean after use
– Doesn’t cause breakouts
– Doesn’t trigger my contact dermatitis

Cons:
– Not yet available in-stores locally.

The texture is a bit liquidy so you’ll only need a small amount. It gives enough lather for me. Enough to remove oil and make me feel clean. This is for normal to oily skin. This works well although I have combination skin. T-zone is oily and cheeks are dry and flakey. It’s not too drying for my cheeks. I’m using this cleanser for two months already. I also noticed that this cleanser helps to push out black/whiteheads easier with a blackhead remover tool. I use less pressure which minimizes the risk of getting hyperpigmentation. Best of all, it doesn’t irritate me even though my skin condition is hypersensitive. It doesn’t interfere with the healing of my TSW.

The only down side is it’s not yet available locally. I ordered mine online. Thank you online shopping! 😉 They have an official Amazon store. I’ll try to order on Amazon and hopefully I can share my shopping experience with you all.

What about you? What’s your favorite face wash right now?

Review: MUJI Cleansing Oil for Sensitive Skin

Since I’m going through Topical Steroid Withdrawal, I can only try few products. I don’t want to use cleansing tissues anymore because they can scratch the skin. I switched to oil-based remover last year and I’m glad I did. I was using Human Nature’s sunflower oil but I find that it can build up and eventually clog the sink. I poured hot water in the sink to dissolve it. Not a major issue, it’s just that I’m lazy. Haha! So I decided to look for another product. I went to MUJI Greenbelt and found their cleansing oil. I read a lot of positive reviews online so I came back and got myself the travel-sized bottle.

Description from MUJI Singapore website:
The oil component of this cleansing oil is 100% plant based (mainly olive oil), making it gentle on the skin. ・Fragrance free・Artificial color free,・Mineral oil free・Paraben-free・Alcohol free・Allergy tested (This does not mean that the product does not cause allergy to anyone)
How to use:
Take an appropriate amount on your palm, and massage into the makeup and dirt. Then, rinse thoroughly with cold or lukewarm water.
Ingredients:

Pros:
– Affordable
– Locally available, 50ml for 265 pesos
– Free from potential irritants like fragrance, alcohols, colorants and mineral oil
– Easily rinsed off
– No oily or sticky residue
– Easily removes my full coverage makeup
– Did not trigger my contact dermatitis
Cons:
– Clogged my pores which resulted to breakouts

I use a few drops on my palms and then apply in circular motions. It becomes milky once I start rinsing with water. Now for its performance, I’m very impressed with how easily it removes my makeup. In just few circular motions, bam! I’m bare-faced already. It also feels hydrating without leaving a film or oily residue.

This would’ve been the best makeup remover for me if it didn’t clog my pores. I already found a way to prevent the breakouts though. I use a blackhead remover tool on the clogged pores. Removing black/whiteheads prevents me from having breakouts.

Now that I know that olive oil is pore-clogging for me, I’m going to be cautious about it when I look at product labels. If I use water-based remover, the makeup will just get stuck on spaces of my flaky skin. Still, I find that this cleansing oil works well for my combination skin in terms of removing makeup without triggering my contact dermatitis.

A lot of their products intrigue me. Have you tried anything from this brand?😉

Review + Swatches: Detail Make Over BB Cream in Tan

I went to the beach last month. I got tan which means I have to adjust the shade of my makeup. My current foundation works for me and doesn’t irritate my skin. I don’t want to waste it. I decided to look for a dark shade to mix with it. I browsed BeautyMNL and looked for liquid makeup under 300 pesos. Yes, I’m a cheapskate when it comes to makeup. 😉 Detail Make Over was on sale there but I needed it on the same day. I went to a department store and luckily, their BB cream was discounted there too!

Description:
Provides light to medium coverage with a fresh finish; camouflages fine lines, pores, and blemishes; primes skin for flawless makeup application; helps create an even, silky veil over skin; moisturizes and brightens to enhance skin tone.

Ingredients:

Pros:
– Local brand
– Affordable, original price is 399 pesos
– Easily accessible in-stores and online
– Plastic tube packaging
– Subtle dewy effect
– Mixes well with my foundation

Cons:
– Has fragrance

Neutral:
– Has light coverage

This BB cream looks thick but will give light coverage once blended. I tried applying it with my fingers and with a brush. Both had the same result. Its light coverage will smoothen out your complexion. Just like a “second skin”. I can get the right shade when I add this in my makeup routine. It doesn’t interfere with my foundation’s coverage. This has subtle dewy finish alone which compliments my semi-matte foundation. I have combination skin right now and the flaking isn’t as visible when I started adding this.

It has a light powder scent. I always prefer fragrance-free but luckily this doesn’t irritate my skin. I’m neutral about the coverage, that’s not my main concern right now. I’m glad that I got it on sale for 199 pesos only. It’s 30ml so that’s going to last a long time.  It can be used for 24 months after opening

The rating for this on BeautyMNL is only 3 stars because it made the users’ skin look so oily. That being said, it’s definitely for dry skin and for cool weather/air-conditioned place. This is a basic product to improve skin’s appearance. This will do if you don’t have to cover blemishes. To lessen the oiliness, I suggest blotting it with tissue before setting with powder. Cream and liquid makeup are usually oil-based unless stated by the brand. Blotting will be needed throughout the day.

Review: Althea Milk Peel Cream Mask

Hello readers! You’ve probably heard about this product already. I’ve been trying it for a while and I’m ready to share my thoughts. Althea has been releasing unique products lately. I’m glad to try them out for you guys! This was sent to me but as always, everything is based on my sensitive skin’s experience.

Description from their website:
Give your skin a big gulp of hydration with the refreshing peeling powers of Althea’s Milk Peel Cream Mask! Containing both AHA and BHA extracts, this gentle but effective exfoliator transforms from a clay to a whipped cream lather, whisking away dead skin cells to prevent flakiness. It’s also formulated with casein protein from milk to revitalize and moisturize the skin. The result is radiantly smooth, healthy skin that’s bouncy to the touch!

How to use:
Dampen the skin and apply an even layer onto the skin, massaging till a rich lather forms. Leave on for 30-60 seconds before rinsing away with warm water.

Ingredients:
Water (Aqua), Kaolin, Glycerin, Disiloxane, Bentonite, Propanediol, Myristic Acid, Methyl Perfluoroisobutyl Ether, Stearicacid, Methyl Perfluorobutyl Ether, Potassium Hydroxide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Palmitic Acid , Ethylhexylglycerin, Milk Proteinextract, Disodium Edta, Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Extract, Gluconolactone, Glycolic Acid, Titaniumdioxide (Ci 77891), Fragrance (Parfum), Coumarin*, Hexyl Cinnamal*, Citronellol*

Pros:
– Fairly priced at ₱ 490 on Althea’s website/app
– Innovative
– Multifunctional, mask pack and cleanser
– Lightweight
– Gives hydration
– Brightens skin after rinsing
– Skin is soft to touch
– Smoothening

Cons:
– Fragrance is strong for me

This mask to cleanser product is innovative. Perfect for those who want to save time or for those who still want to step up their skin care game. Not everyone has the time to use tons of products, right? It has this thick creamy texture. Surprisingly, it feels light and doesn’t feel hot either. Skin is brighter after using. It’s probably the milk protein in it. Milk usually do that based on previous products I’ve tried. My skin felt soft, smooth and hydrated as well. I’d still recommend to follow up with moisturizer after if you have dry skin.

As you can see in the photos above, it just looks like cream from the start. Then it slightly lathers up after a few seconds. How cool is that? Since its fragrance is strong for me, I only use this on oily areas that are not sensitive. I lack exfoliation on those areas.

Overall, this is good addition in a routine. It mildly exfoliates with AHA and BHA, doubles as mask and cleanser. It’s like a treat to yourself after a long day to bring back that fresh look. Milk is beneficial not just for the body. It’s also great as an ingredient for skin care. It’s nourishing, can strengthen and make skin feel baby soft.