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Recently, I asked Kris a very tricky random question.  Do I look like a 25 year old?  His answer was, "I don't know what a 25 year old woman looks like".  Pft.  Maybe le boyfriend was just trying to play safe.  HAHA!

It's not that I suddenly panicked because I saw signs of aging on mah face.  It was just out of curiosity.  Really.  Now, let me ask you.  Do you go in a state of hysteria whenever you see a new wrinkle?  I hope not.  But in case you do, I know something that could help.

There's an anti-aging superstar you need to meet.


Say hello to Retinol!

Before I tell you all about this product, let me introduce the key ingredient first. Retinol or retonoid or whatever reto-ish word you like to call it, is simply just Vitamin A.  It is one of the best vitamins out there used in the cosmetics world to beautify the skin.  Sometimes, I like to think they called it "A" because that letter stands for "Anti-aging" and that's basically what it is for.

Maybe you're wondering how retinol works.  Uhm, well, it does a LOT of things, but the only thing you need to know is that, it has a power to talk to our skin cells and tell them to behave nicely and work properly.  It goes deep into the dermis (2nd layer) and affect collagen production and breakdown which in turn helps to re-texturize the skin surface.  It also speeds up cell turnover which results to clearer and brighter skin.  So I guess we don't need the fountain of youth after all.

2,500 php

Now that you have an idea how retinol helps reverse signs of skin aging, let's move onto the product review.

Wrinkle Therapy


This is the other Dermax Professional skincare I got from Skin Station.  It promises to soften wrinkles in just 2 minutes!  Instant effect huh!  With long term use, it claims that deep wrinkles would significantly reduced.  

It contains advanced nano-encapsulated retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and other anti-aging actives.  

  
The product is housed in this pump-cylinder type of packaging.  You might think that the cream's color is green and red but no, it's actually yellow.

During the first week, I encountered a big-time pump malfunction.  HAHA!  I thought it's not working because there's no tube connecting to the pump and the product would not come out.  I was pushing it down real hard many many times but still, no success.  I figured it's because of the cream's consistency.  It's freaking thick!  So I turned the bottle upside down and tap it against my palm to help bring the product at the upper part.  And then, I tried again and it worked.


Before, I was using this day (because it claims to de-puff the eyes) and night (because that's when our skin's regeneration process becomes very active).  However, I noticed that my skin was reacting weirdly (I started spotting some bumps around my cheekbone area near my eyes) so I lessened the frequency to once a day.   Maybe the formula is too strong to be used twice daily?  Well, at least for me.



Like I said, it's a thick cream.  It doesn't melt easily as I massage it onto my face so I make sure I blend it well and leave it for about a minute before applying my next skincare product.

It doesn't have any odd fragrance as well.  It's almost scentless.

If you take a closer look at the photo above, you might notice bead-like gel stuff in there. Uhm, I don't know what those are.  They don't bother me so I guess they're harmless.  :)

The work begins...

I concentrate on my nose area to target my pore dilemma, on my smile lines or nasolabial folds (as you can see below, that's where fine lines start to appear), on my forehead and my eye area (Retinol-C can double up as an eye cream).


As you can tell, I've used up almost half of the cream already and here's what I've observed so far.

  • it really hydrates and retextures the skin - I used to have dry areas around my mouth
  • before, whenever I go back to my bitchy resting face after smiling, my laugh line used to imprint but Retinol-C has helped to diminish those pesky creases
  • I haven't noticed any drastic changes around my eyes, but it moisturizes that area as well
  • my pores have been behaving very well - Thanks retinol for micro-managing them!!  HAHA!  I think my current toner is also a good sidekick!
  • no peeling
  • no itchiness and other irritations except for the bumps I got whenever I use it twice a day (the trick is to just apply it only on my smile lines if I want to use it at day time)
  • never-a-dull-moment because it also contains Vitamin C which brightens up the skin
  • it's hard to tell if the "instant effect" is really happening, though I do love how it keeps fine lines almost invisible all day 

Prevention is better than cure!

If you're not brave enough (and if you're wallet is not yet ready) for the expensive botox and laser treatments, you can opt to buy retinol creams to deal with wrinkles.  Oh yes, those wrinkles that come with age.  All of us cannot avoid it but surely, we can delay it.  Remember, prevention is waaaaaay cheaper than cure!

Over-the-counter or drugstore retinol creams are usually pricey but they're worth it.  I really suggest you try incorporating it in your skincare routine especially if you really really need something to slow down your skin's aging process.  If you ask me, I'd like to make it a permanent part of my nighttime beauty regimen.

A few more tips...

Before diving in, make sure you do not have any hypersensitivity with retinol.  You can talk to a dermatologist first.  Btw, doctors are available at Skin Station clinics for consultation, so take advantage of that if you're planning to buy Dermax Retinol-C.  *wink

Make sure to use sunscreen because early signs of aging are caused by harmful UV rays.  Protect and prevent!

This whole anti-aging thing won't ever work if you have bad lifestyle.  Yes, retinoid creams can help but you need to help them too.  


What do you think?


Check out SkinStation's website and like them on Facebook to know more about their products and services.   


your sweetest drug,





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Hey, beauties!  How was your weekend?  Mine has been very busy, action-packed and fun!  The past days have been truly memorable because well, first I got the chance to try surfing for the first time and I got to explore Baler with my dearest teammates.  It's my first trip this 2015 as well (looking forward to the next one soon!).  In case you're wondering why I was MIA for two days, that's because the internet connection there was almost non-existent.  Pft.  I realized there's no way I could do a Friday Flashback post.  Baler unplugged me from social media too, but I'm not complaining.  It even made the whole experience better.  Second, I attended an amazing blogger event earlier today.  I've shared a few photos on my IG already but of course, I will do share the full story in a little while.

Sooooo, this post is all about these surprisingly good and affordable lip liner pencils by L.A. Colors.


I bought these months ago when I was looking for a lip pencil for my makeup video, Gold and Bold. And since they're totally inexpensive, I grabbed three.  It's only 99 php!

You can find L.A. Colors in Landmark beauty section.


I picked the Auburn (reddish-brown), Pink Fleur (frosty pink) and Sable (natural brown).


Color

There's no need to build the color up if you want to wear it alone because they're nicely pigmented. 


Finish

Auburn and Sable are matte ones, while Pink Fleur is frosty but not too glittery.


Formula

Pink Fleur looks nice on photos but in person, the finish is quite off.  It accentuates lip lines and feels really patchy.  As a lip liner, yea, it's okay but on it's own, it's a bit difficult to wear.  I sometimes use it as a highlighter on the bridge of my nose since the color is very light, almost colorless actually when blended.


This shade would be a perfect match with smokey eyes or for a cyber-ish, futuristic makeup look.


The other two has a creamy formula.  They feel exactly like regular lipsticks.  

All of them are slightly drying.  Make sure your lip balm is ready because it would be put to work every time you have these lip liners on.


Application

They all glide on very smoothly except Pink Fleur.  Maybe because it's frosty?  Nonetheless, I love how easy they are to apply and to blend.


Longevity

These lip pencils are deficient in lasting power.  It comes off easily after eating or drinking and sometimes settles in between the lip lines as well.

Here's how they looked like after rubbing it off with tissue once.


They don't leave stains too so do not expect that these would stay on all day if you're using it as your full on lip color.  However, when you use them underneath long-lasting lipsticks, longevity won't be a problem.


I reach out for Sable whenever I want a natural lip look.  I think it perfectly suits my skin tone. Auburn is the lip liner I normally use with my EM Cosmetics lipstick in Passion Berry or whenever I want to intensify dark, bold lips.  My least favorite is Pink Fleur though I'm utterly surprised that it looked soooo good on these photos!  Crazy!  HAHA!  I also use it with my MAC Bombshell from time to time.

Sable | Pink Fleur | Auburn

Overall, I recommend these for people who are not willing to spend a fortune for lip liners.  There are a handful of colors available locally so go ahead and hoard 'em.  Again, the only grumble I could think of is lasting power, but even so, I'm still satisfied.  I mean for its price, I don't think I'll throw it away.  In fact, these are good drugstore lip pencils.

Ooops, I forgot to mention that these are a bit longer than the NYX ones.  Good, right?  They also sell a retractable version so check that out if you hate sharpening.  :)

What do you think?

Like L.A. Colors PH on Facebook.


your sweetest drug,

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So, guess who took me out on a date.  Yep, it's Kris.  Of course, it's Kris!  HAHA!  (if not, I'd be in big trouble)  He suddenly thought of trying out this new restaurant which he heard of from a friend.  If you're in the mood for something cute or maybe you wanna be in a place which screams "CUTE" (like everywhere you look at, you just want to say "it is so cute, I'm gonna die!!!") or perhaps you just want to have a great coffee, treat or dessert (or a memorable date like what we had) then, I could only think of one thing.  Try The Bunny Baker!  Go!  Now!  Seriously.


The name itself and the view outside were enough to make me giddy.  The feeling was like knowing you're about to enter wonderland.  


The Bunny Baker is open daily, from 7 AM to 12 midnight.  You can check out the menu here.  They serve all-day breakfast and homey and light meals.  They make cupcakes too!  If you're not into that, you can try their gelato called Bunnylato or their delectable desserts.


We went there for something sweet and a good cup of coffee, so I have nothing to say about their dishes.  Maybe next time.

The place has a nice, mood-boosting ambiance.  Everything fits the theme of the restaurant.  Well, except there are no real bunnies hopping around, but I really do admire how every corner and even the itty-bitty details are made cuter and whimsical in a way.  I personally love the cloud details and the bunny chairs.  I mean, come on!  Those chairs have bunny ears!  #cantgetanycuterthanthat  I felt like I was in a children's party.  HAHA!


Not to mention the starry ceiling!  Arrrghh!  I want that in my room!


 Before this post becomes an interior design review, let me show you the delightful treats!


Like I said, they also serve ice cream, but clearly not the type you'd see anywhere.  I forgot the other flavor names, but I assure you they're super interesting.


They also make macarons, named and shaped like a bunny.


For the cuppy-cakes, they have the regular chocolate, vanilla, red velvet ones, plus their version of banana-speculoos combo.

Can I eat all of those toppers???

I had to grab one for Jaela Bear and I picked Midnight Dream 'cause the kiddo loves chocolate.  Here's their cupcake take-out box.


Now, take a look at this one.  My Bear Cappucino!  

125 php

For every order of coffee, matcha or cocoa (I think it's for hot drinks only), you can have your latte art done!  Your choice of design or pattern too!  Just tell them what you would like to see on top of your drink.  Isn't that awesome?!


Of course, I had to pick bear!  But you can request something more complex like let's say, your favorite cartoon or superhero character.

285 php

For dessert, we had Skilletor, their mouthwatering skillet cookie with ice cream on top.


You can also choose other flavor for your ice cream, but I suggest going for one that's not too sweet because the cookie itself is sweet already.


As a cake studio, they also do custom-designed cakes.  They have a few on display, so check out their samples if you're interested.

We really enjoyed our little "bunny" experience!  Service was nice and the one dessert we tried didn't disappoint!  Coffee was good too!


I would love to visit again!  And surely that would be soon because I already made a promise to Jaela Bear that I'd bring her here. :)

What do you think?

Like The Bunny Baker on Facebook.

Address: Hemady Square, E.Rodriguez



your sweetest drug,

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Holy crap!  I just realized that I didn't do the Friday Flashback post last week!  Forgive me, people.  Anyway, do browse my past posts for the past 2 weeks.  I promise to do FF on Friday!  Okay?!

So, for today's Skin Care 101 featured product, I have here Yves Rocher Botanical Purity Film Mask.


When I shopped for the Sebo Vegetal line, I unknowingly glanced at this product and I couldn't believe what I saw.  The price tag only had 2 digits.  In fact, I had to look at it again 'cause it's super cheap - they're selling it for only 70 php!  I knew I had to grab it and try it out not just because it's a steal but also because I love masks and I wanted to try something new - a film mask.


What is it?


It's basically a type of peel-off mask which comes in an ultra-mega-oh-so sticky formula.  At times when you feel your skin is dull and clogged, this product would help make it look more revitalized.

It contains salicylic acid, a few glycolics and lactic acid, so it's definitely one of your best bets if you need a good exfoliation.  Plus, there's also menthol in it so expect a very strong minty scent and cooling sensation.


It looks like a clear gel (sometimes I see a hint of green color) and it feels slightly heavy on.  Like I said, it's waaaaaay too sticky (almost similar to glue) so it's a bit challenging (and annoying) to apply it on the face.


What I love about it

Just remove the overpowering scent during application and it would be a great mask candidate.  It does a great job at firming the skin, removing excess sebum and tightening the pores as well.  I use it once every 2 weeks or basically, every time I feel like using it.  

As it dries, I feel a tightening effect just like any other leave-on masks.  Remember to relax your face so you'd feel more comfortable.  


After 15 minutes, it would turn into a film and that would be the time to peel it off.  Start from the bottom, usually I start from my chin, and take it off in an upward direction.  You can rinse your face after or you can opt to skip that and begin your regular skincare routine.

Here's the junk. 


Peel-off mask is a great thing to use if you want a more refined skin texture.  Such product is also known to remove dead skin cells on the surface, but if you want a more deep-cleaning and unclogging, try using facial scrubs instead.

What do you think?  Have you tried film masks before?  Or do you prefer wash-off clay masks?

Like Yves Rocher on Facebook.

Btw, I'm not sure if they still have this film mask since I bought it months ago.  Better to visit their store and check it out.  I swear you'll enjoy shopping at Yves Rocher (like I do!), not only because they have regular promotions and discounts, but also because their products are very interesting, straightforward and of course, made of natural ingredients.


your sweetest drug,


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When I was still a skincare noob, I didn't care much about my facial cleansers.  I would just pick up whatever's inexpensive in the drugstore, usually the foamy ones and use it day and night.  I had no idea that some of them tend to over dry the skin and cause irritation too because of harsh ingredients.

I'm not saying that we all need to be finicky when choosing a face wash.  Personally, I think it's no-brainer at all.  For me, as long it cleanses the face well while still being gentle to the skin, it's great. Plus, it should not contain irritants and too much artificial fragrance.

Good thing, I got to try Dermax So Gentle Gel Cleanser because it marks off all the boxes in my face cleanser checklist!

420 php

The brand also offers two other cleansers, AcneX which doubles up as an exfoliator and SkinPrep which is commonly used in clinical procedures.


The one I have suits any skin type even sensitive skin because the formula is very gentle (as its name suggests).  Its main ingredients are:

  • soap berry - hypoallergenic, perfect for people with sensitive skin and allergies, mainly used for cleaning
  • coco betaine - coconut derived foaming and cleansing agent, gentle cleanser
  • organic aloe vera extract - good moisturizer



I wash my face with this once a day, every morning only because I use my other cleanser at night.

Formula


I don't see it as a gel cleanser due to its watery consistency.  It's doesn't lather or foam as well like soap since there's no sodium sulfate in it.  It almost feels like liquid with a hint of lotion on skin, very silky and lightweight.  

Again, it's fragrance-free but I could smell coconuts whenever I apply it on my face.  I like it actually!  It rinses off easily as well, leaving the skin feeling soft and refreshed.  No tightness!  It doesn't strip off skin's natural moisture.

The first few days I used it, it felt a little odd because I wasn't sure if it's really cleaning my face since there's no soapsuds whatsoever.  The texture also reminds me of baby wash and perhaps, that makes this product suitable for sensitive skin.  Almost all baby bath stuff are gentle, right?


Clean Up!

This is where So Gentle falls short.  It doesn't remove makeup very well.  Although, for me it's still a good cleanser.  

If you're wearing light to almost no makeup, it can still work.  But if you have a full face makeup or waterproof, long-wearing products on, make sure to double-cleanse!  You can use facial towelettes or makeup removers as the first step and then, wash your face with this baby.


Hmmm... what else?


Aside from people with oily/combination and sensitive skin, those with dry skin will possibly enjoy this cleanser as much since it retains skin moisture.

Another thing I love about So Gentle is the fact that it didn't irritate my skin or cause breakouts.  Oh yea!

You can buy this and other Dermax products at Skin Station branches.  Visit their website here for more details.  They do offer special promotions and discounts, so like them on Facebook too!


What do you think?



your sweetest drug,








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