New Skincare Regime

Hello!

For the past weeks, I've been fighting with my face to find a proper treatment and cure to heal my skin from all that red rashes and pimples >.< And I hope that I have finally found the proper skincare routine, thanks to my mom :) I did not include any photos of me "before" and "after" because I don't think any of you can deal with horrible photos >.< 

So please enjoy this post and good luck! 

This is my old regime, the skincare I used all summer. Let me list down each product for you guys:

1. The Body Shop Aloe Calming Toner: To be honest I wanted to use the M.A.C Light toner but because I was so........ broke (at that time) so I decided to use something much cheaper and hoping that The Body Shop toner would do fine on my skin. Result? This toner didn't make a difference on my face. It felt like I was just putting plain water on my face instead of prepping my skin for moisturizer =.= Therefore I REGRET buying this cheap product! T^T Ok I have to also add this, although I don't think it's the main reason but, I think this toner actually made my skin EVEN MORE SENSITIVE! />o<\
2. La Mer The Radiant Infusion: this product is supposed to help minimize my pores and improve clarity of my skin. Honestly, yes it was doing a great job at the beginning when I was using the entire line of La Mer for a short term. As I ran out of other products from the same line, this "serum" was left alone, I couldn't just throw it away - waste of money DUH! - so I kept it in my skincare regime with other (new) products. I just kept on applying this product that did nothing to my face but make it worse.... read on to see why.... 
3. Kielh's Ultra Facial Micro Serum: the ONLY reason I bought this product is because the Kielh's Herbal Moisturizer was difficult to apply. Therefore, the lady advised me to complement my moisturizer with this "pricey" serum. 
4. Kielh's Herbal Moisturizer: i picked this moisturizer because a) it's a gel type, ideal for sensitive and acne prone skin type, b) i wanted to try out a new brand and due to historical background from Kielh's, I thought its products wouldn't be too harmful on my face, c) too conscious to the fact that my face was in bad condition so I really needed a new moisturizer to heal my poor face. Results for #3 and #4: as I used Kielh's products during the summer, I didn't realized that my face was actually very sensitive and allergic to Kielh's products. Every morning, I checked my face to see if there is any improvements when using these new products. But I actually never thought that my face was having a very bad reaction with Kielh's products. I knew only when my mother pointed it out. I have to say, though, every time I applied Kielh's products, compared to La Mer's products, I really felt like my face never felt as smooth as before. The more I applied them, the more I felt red rashes and more acne all over my face but I just kept on applying everyday! Could you believe that? What was the problem? Kielh's products were just too strong and harsh on my skin. >.< I just found this link online and wanted to share with you guys. Just some points I strongly agree with the writer: http://awayinstyle.com/article/520-kiehls-introduces-ultra-facial-micro-serum.html 
5. Bobbi Brown Hydrating Moisturizer: I used this product at the beginning of the year. It was fine for a short term (approx. 6 months) but as I used new products in my skincare regime, things went worse.
6. M.A.C Prep + Prime Skin Base: ok this is not a skincare product but this is a product that I cannot use on my skin regularly. Since my skin is very sensitive to any thing I put on, I have to keep harmful products away from my poor skin T^T 

Ok the reason I listed down my old regime is because I would like to warn for those who have VERY SENSITIVE SKIN +/ OR ACNE-PRONE:

1. Please DO NOT try new products here and there, your skin isn't the same as those makeup gurus that we follow on Youtube. Trust me, it's not fun when your skin is having a hard time to process all those products. 
2. Note down BRANDS +/OR PRODUCTS that you have had problems with in the past. This will help you to stay away from those brands +/ or products in the future. For example, I have been noticing that American-based brands (Kielh's, M.A.C and Bobbi Brown) are just too harsh for my skin and so I cannot use them in the future. But I noticed that Japanese-based brands seem to work better on my skin like Shu Uemura. (And I always thought Shu Uemura was bad for my skin.... = =) And now I'm using France-based products and it seems to work so far. 
3. Please DO NOT buy DRUGSTORE products like Neutrogena or Biore. Although it says "mild" on the bottle, I wouldn't recommend you guys unless you have tried in the past. But I have warned you if otherwise! :p
4. Look for high-end skincare brands that offer "GENTLE" or "MILD" products. This is what you're looking for. Usually it says "for dry or sensitive skin".
5. When applying products on skin (cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, sunscreen, etc), please warm the products on your hand first then GENTLY apply on your face starting from your nose to your ears. PAD.... PAD.....gently if you have to. 
6. Try to have the least number of products in skincare regime as possible because your skin cannot take all the products like other people. 
7. DO NOT mix up different brands in your skincare regime. Things work best on my skin when it's from the SAME BRAND. Otherwise, why would they produce a whole line for? .... = =""" So USE ONE BRAND ONLY FOR ONE PURPOSE! 
8. I DO NOT RECOMMEND TO GO TO CLINICS SPECIALIZED FOR EXTRACTING YOUR ACNE!!!! THIS WILL LEAD TO HORRIBLE SCARS ON YOUR FACE LEFT FOREVER!! Please take this into consideration. This is a serious matter! >.<
9. Look for products that are NON-COMEDOGENIC & HYPOALLERGENIC!

Above I'm showing you the cleanser I used before and after.

• BEFORE: cleanser: Special Cleansing Gel by Dermalogica; masque: Skin Hydrating Masque by Dermalogica
• NOW: Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser

MY NEW SKINCARE REGIME: Clarins Skincare Line

   

This has been my new skincare routine for the past week. Only the eye cream is from Sisley, which I'm in LOVE with it because this product really ABSORBS well on my skin. Just wonderful! XD 

Anyway, the Clarins lady suggested me to use the least number of products every day by using the most essential ones, cleanser+toner+moisturizer+sunscreen. She only added this Skin Beauty Repair Concentrate (middle left, orange cap) to concentrate on aging lines on my forehand and large pores on my cheeks. I also purchase their colorless powder so I'm sure it sets and protects my skin from makeup products. I'm currently not using masque products until my face is nicely healed. 

Lastly, I would like to end this hopeful entry with two last products I used in between my old regime and my new Clarins skincare routine: 

While I was using my old skincare, I was keenly looking for a cure to heal my post-acne scars. Additionally, because I mixed up too many products of different brands that my face became too sensitive and I had red rashes all over my face, so I needed to let my face breathe for a week. Therefore I used this amazing Camellia Oil for a week. Please note that this Camellia oil cannot be found in Thailand! This was bought from my parents in Shanghai. Note again that this is actually for COOKING purpose but it IS OK to use on your face too since my parents didn't know it was for my face = ="" You can search online to purchase a small bottle to try out. It's usually sold on Ebay at cheaper prices.

I came across online this amazing post from this forum (unfortunately the link is on my macbook and it's still in repair centre so I can't share here >.<) But this is another link which this writer points out well the benefits of using Camellia Oil on your skin. 

Camellia Oil is made from a flower that is planted on this amazing tiny island called Goto, of Nagasaki Prefecture and the Izu Islands of Tokyo Prefecture.

Apparently, according to that lost fond forum, the writer said Japanese people used this oil on babies to protect them from sun and any other harmful things that can get attached on their skin. Also, it helps to prevent any acne as they grow older. Amazing right? 

So here from that website the benefits of using camellia oil:

• Effective moisturizing
• Penetrates skin fast
• Forms protective barrier to seal in moisture
• Restores moisture balance in dry skin
• Soothes skin irritations
• Forms protective barrier against sun damage
• Hypoallergenic
• Non-comedogenic
• Softens fine lines and wrinkles
• Promotes wound healing

Also, it tells you several ways to use the oil on the skin:

• Moisturizer - Camellia oil can spot treat dry areas of skin and is also light enough as a daily facial or body moisturizer. Apply oil to damp skin for optimal moisture.
• Sunscreen - For centuries people uses camellia oil as a protective barrier over the skin to prevent sun damage.
• Anti-aging product - The antioxidant value of the oil helps the oil regenerate skin cells and encourages a more youthful appearance with regular use.
• Scar fading treatment - The oil is helpful in fading old scars when applied over a long period of time.
• Wound care - The oil helps speed up wound healing and discourages the formation of scars.
• Acne treatment - Light spot treatments of camellia oil can help heal acne pimples and encourage healthy, clear skin.

Read more at Suite101: Camellia Oil for Skin Care: Japanese Beauty Secret | Suite101.com http://adrienne-warber.suite101.com/camellia-oil-for-skin-care-a189431#ixzz1bQexAJVR

Also, from the photo above, I added the Vaseline because I had a rough time with my dry and chapped lips. Sadly, Nivea lip balm isn't going to be my best friend :( 

Alrighty, this is finally the end of my post! I hope this wasn't too long for you guys XD But hopefully it will be helpful and please consider what I said above :) 

Feel free to ask me or leave a comment! I will try my best to help you :) 

Good luck!

Take good care of your skin before winter comes!

Much love,

Rosie

☆*August favorite products*☆ PART TWO!

The second part of my August favorites will cover the best makeup and hair care products.

MAKEUP FAVORITES OF THE MONTH

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 Sunscreen in Light

In comparison with the BB cream from SKIN79, this product is much better in terms of coverage, texture and anti-acne prone. I also heard in the past that tinted moisturizer is frequently recommended by experts because the texture of it is much lighter and there is a large range of shades to suit any skin color. The most recognized tinted moisturizer I heard was from Laura Mercier. It seems to be the all-times best seller in terms of best tinted moisturizer along the base makeup. I tested on my hand the Laura Mercier product few month ago but I never dared to buy it because I used to dislike using any foundation because of acne problems.

To point out about this product is that I haven't got a lot of pimples since I've been using it for a month now. So I'm grateful and enjoying this product a lot.

Although this product also contains sunscreen, the texture does not feel thick or heavy on my face. There is no "cakey" feeling compared to the SKIN79 BB cream in pink. Also, oil-control all day long is really effective.

Product rating: 9/10

Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer in Warm Ivory with Pale Yellow Sheer Finish Loose Powder

FIY: the main reason I'm using this product is because my sister doesn't use it and it's not right color. So I have to use for the sake of money lol

Besides, this concealer is great because it also provided a tiny powder underneath the concealer to set it afterwards. I love this product because it really does conceal my dark circles well. Sometimes, I also use it to conceal some blemishes and acne but I tend to not try doing that because it can cause more inflammation to my acne.

It very convenient and portable, so I guess that's why there is powder provided...why not give a tiny brush applicator too? lol

Unfortunately, I don't think this type of packaging for concealer is available at any Bobbi Brown counter anymore. They are promoting strongly on that new duo creamy concealer kit. Also, another downside about Bobbi Brown's makeup products, they can be a bit too pricey but I guess worth it? This is just my thoughts.

Product rating: 8.5/10

Maybe this color is just too bright for my skin tone :/

Melliesh Blush in Pink 01

I may have reviewed or rated as my favorites before but IT IS a good blush! It's definitely a "dolly-like" blush!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE... XD nothing else I can say.

It has a bit of glitter in it but it doesn't really bother me much. It's very pink though if you aren't too careful when applying it.

Looking where to buy it? I can suggest a couple website for you guys :)

Sasa.com

Pinkyparadise.com

Product rating: 9/10

A bit hard to rate a blush for me XD

Majolica Majorca Puff de Cheeks in Pink 301

Again this another favorite product I already mentioned before. I just love Japanese blushes XD I guess they suit more for Asian? I have to say that this color is more orange than pink (on the label it says "pink"). This blush can be found at any Watson stores in Thailand. The price is reasonable too :)

I like to mix orange and pink color as it goes well with my skin tone. Sometimes I like to use them for natural look or dolly-like look. It's just fun to mix color together :)

Unlike the previous blush, this doesn't have glitter. It's more a matte finish.

Product rating: 8.5/10

HAIR CARE FAVORITE OF THE MONTH

Essential Damage-Care Rich Premier with Shea Butter

Please note that this product is the conditioner one and not the hair mask. The hair mask contains an additional ingredient: honey.

This particular hair conditioner has been acknowledged by several makeup and beauty gurus already, including Eki chan, Xiaxue, Bubzbeauty, Suzi of StyleSuzi and Jen of fromheadtotoe. And now myself have to personally say that i love it too :)

It definitely nourishes starting from the root of hair to give and maintain a healthy glow, smooth and radiance to your hair. In comparison to the pink line, this orange line's products are much more richer. It's great and more recommended for those who have dyed, permed or damaged hair. I also love the smell of this product :)

What really made me fall in love with this product more ? Thanks to Jen's new hair care routine video on her YT channel, my hair has gone from very dry to smooth, manageable and healthier hair! Jen said that she likes to cover up her hair, after applying the conditioner, with a shower cap for deeper-conditioning. Well, I tried that a few times and it REALLY work!!! Thanks Jen!! :D So now, I have to HAVE this little orange friend in my shower!! XD

Product rating: 9/10

L'Oreal Nutri-Gloss Light Shine Conditioner

This is another favorite conditioner I have in my shower. Yes! Believe it or not, I have 2 conditioners, 1 hair mask and a shampoo in my bathroom XD I just like to switch around from time to time. Not too often, obviously ^^

What's good about this product?

Definitely gives shine to my hair! And my hair feels much LIGHTER after each use compared to the Essential Rich Premier one! I LOVE the smell too!! :) And it really helps manage and smooth my hair. Good, good! d( ^ ^o)

Product rating: 9/10

Skin Mates Fruit Bio Treatment with Bergamot and Peach

Anyone knows what's a bergamot? I'm guessing it's a fruit? The smell is just wonderful!!! This is a great hair mask!

Skin Mates is, I think, a Thai brand. This product was introduced to me by a friend of mine and I think her parents are the owner of the company. This is my second time I purchased this hair mask from her. It's very affordable as well => 120 baht.

Before I used the two hair conditioners I mentioned above, I used this hair mask every week. This product really helped my hair in a healthy way. It has a similar purpose as the Essential Rich Premier one which is the deep conditioning.

Product rating: 8/10

FIY: I added the shower cap next to it just because it has a good purpose for this deep-conditioning treatment LOL

OK!......

This is FINALLY the end of my August favorite of the month! I hope you enjoy reading it ^^

Feel free to comment in the section below for any suggestions on improvement of my blog or anything you want :)

Take care!!

Love,

Rosie

☆*August favorite products*☆ PART ONE!

I finally picked my favorite products of the month! I categorized them into skincare, makeup and hair care for you dollz :) But I think I will divide my posts into 2-3 parts as I give a lot of details XD sorry....!

These three products were mainly picked for this month because they showed great results in acne and oil control of my skin.

Neutrogena Fine Fairness Cleanser

I've been using this cleanser all summer. This product was recommended by my best friend and i'm very grateful for the advice but the price in HK is just too overrated.... I can get way cheaper in Thailand!!

What's good about this product?

• It contains a great formula of Essential Soy and Vitamin C
• It reaches deeps into skin pores to remove dirt, dead cells and oil without drying your skin
• It brightens and improve your skin
• Suit for all skin types including sensitive and acne prone types

My thoughts?

It does the job that what the description says above. There is a trick in this process that I've been doing all summer long, several additional steps I do before I use this product and there is an extra ingredient I mix it up with. But before I get into the trick, this cleanser has definitely brightened up my skin and improve the clarity of it. Also, it helped control and get rid of dirt into my pores so I have less pimples. I would definitely recommend to those who have similar skin types as me: extra-sensitive, acne prone, combination to oily skin type.

My Trick Skin Care Routine?

To be honest, even though I've been doing this routine all summer, my skin isn't perfect. I still have acne popping here and there but at least it's becoming controllable compared to months ago.

I basically use the best makeup remover by Shu Uemuera. I use the green one because it has this gentle feeling on my skin and removes my makeup really well. This is a preference but everybody has different skin type so you need to find out which color suit you best. I would massage it for about 60 seconds. Next, I wash the remover off with water and use my Dermalogica gel cleanser to make sure that my remover got rid off all my makeup. Then finally, I finish off with this Neutrogena cleanser and add a little bit of fresh eatable oatmeal in your palm. After 10 sec under water, the oatmeal is supposed to be wet and softer so you can gently massage it on your face and I end up doing a homemade yogurt mask every. single. night....and voila!

I know this is a lot to do on my poor face but after doing this for a few month now, I'm happy and satisfied. Up until today, my skin isn't dry anymore and less blemishes too.

These tricks are taken by this famous makeup and beauty guru on youtube, Bubzbeauty, if some of you don't know her. You should definitely check out her channel on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/bubzbeauty and her website: http://www.bubzbeauty.com

Thanks to her, I'm no more ashamed of my face!!! XD

Overall:

8.5/ 10

The reason is because I'm a bit scared that this cleanser might still be too rough for my skin. So I think i have to find an alternative to switch around. But if i can't find then I will continue with this one until I find a new one.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Micro Serum

I've been using this product for a month or so and it's been a great serum compared to my other ones. This serum texture is white and a bit thicker than any serums I know of. But the great thing about this one is that it deeply hydrates my skin very well!

I would give this product: 8.5/10

Kiehl's Blue Herbal Moisturizer

I used this moisturizer the same time as the serum one. These two products are a great deep hydration and acne-prone combo. This product is great for those looking to prevent acne.

What's good about this product?

• oil-free moisturizer
• Absorb quickly and penetrates pores to eliminate most acne blemishes and allows skin to heal
• an additional balancing effect allows the formula to mattify skin, reducing the appearance of pores and leaving skin with a matte, hydrated appearance and texture
• non-comedogenic formulation helps prevent new acne blemishes from forming

My thoughts?

I LOVE IT! This is one of my favorite moisturizer ever !! Plus, it gives a fresh, minty feeling after application. It's just a nice feeling and rewarding after all the procedures I do every night XD It definitely does help control my acne from forming again but to be honest, I still have acne...just less than before :)) My face is also not dry anymore. It just looks healthier and brightened up! :D

This product will be rated 8.5/10!

These skin care products are just great and will be my BEST FRIEND for many years coming up :)

Now to end my post, I would like to share new stuff I just bought yesterday :) So vintage-inspired right?? XD Well I think I'm that kind of "gyaru" I'm sooooo in LOVE with that green polka dots skirt. And these two cute bows will be my friends. Great cutie accessories :)

Finally!!! I'm entering this giveaway by one of my favorite Japanese blogger, Eki chan! She's such a cute, adorable and sweet blog ever! And I just had to share with you guys because she does a lot of giveaways. Plus I heard from many makeup gurus that the Sigma brushes are one of the best makeup brushes !

Here is the link to eki chan's blog with the giveaway details: http://www.ekiblog.com/2011/08/visit-to-sigma-beauty-giveaway.html

This is finally the end of this entry! Phew!!!

I will continue my favorites tomorrow! XD

xx

Rosie