Eco Friendly Alternatives (The Toilet Paper Edition): Fresh Eco-Pulp Premium Bathroom Tissue vs BabebiBambu Premium Bamboo Tissue.

A little under a decade ago, I decided to switch to a more eco-friendly toilet paper because I was feeling guilty about how much toilet paper I used. It was one of those bathroom thoughts that was easy enough to implement, unlike the hand bidet (a currently unrealized wish because of possible water pressure issues). I thought I did a post on it years ago, but it was never published. Oops.

Anyway, as I'm spending more time at home, I've thought about things a bit more. Recently, I've been trying out two different "premium" eco-friendly bathroom tissues: Fresh Eco-Pulp Premium Bathroom Tissue  and BabebiBambu Premium Bamboo Tissue to figure out if I liked recycled versus bamboo tissue as my eco-friendly alternative to virgin pulp toilet paper.

After all, I prefer keeping bamboo wipes in my bag.

Which will I be going forward with?

BCL x Althea Sunrise Moonrise Palette

 Honestly, when you first see the official pictures of Althea's first eye palette, you'd think it wasn't anything remarkable. Still, I was able to get this on promo as a GWP during last year's 11.11 sale. Why, you ask? Well, it's expiring on 11. 2021. So while this has been out for a long time, I first cracked it open last lunar new year since I was thinking of using the red shade in this palette. I was then pleasantly surprised when I first swatched it out.

This is now my official 2021 palette.

Step Up Properly: Clear Anti Dandruff Scalp Care Shampoo

 Finished up my latest bottle of anti-dandruff shampoo: Clear's Anti-Danruff Scalp Care Shampoo.

Which, to be honest, I bought because of the bottle. If you look it up online, it's different because it has this weird slide to open mechanism.. It's gimmicky, but it honestly stays on well and doesn't leak. The formula is runny so it's very easy to get all of it out even if you can't keep the bottle upside down.

Which is great. I don't need to chip my nail polish in the shower. And I think this could be useful too for people with low grip strength...I wonder if this top type might catch on.

But as an anti-dandruff shampoo, it works as well as the old formula. And that meant okay-ish, even with daily use. Not remarkable enough that I'd repurchase.

So it doesn't really stand out enough and I really don't see myself buying it again since the scent or quality aren't stellar. I don't see this an effective way to really grab market share. Step up, Clear. Product perfection before packaging.

In Her Element Petal Skin Rose Toning Essence

 Really short review because this thing has been out of stock. But really, if you can, try In Her Element's Petal Skin Rose Toning Essence.

I really loved the mist, and I've actually purchased and gifted that to family and friends. But this thing is like the mist's more responsible, more concentrated older sister.

Packaging is crap. But this slighlty viscous liquid packs quite a punch.

Get it before it's gone!

Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E Ferrulic Acid Serum

 At long last I've finally decided to try Timeless' 20% Vitamin C + E Ferrulic Acid Serum. Why? Because I found a trusted reseller on shopee. Because while I've heard a lot of good things about it and it technically ships to the Philippines. But let's be honest, international shipping is a gamble, and so are most re-sellers.

After two months of testing and finishing this serum, here are my thoughts.

Thank You Maquillage Dramatic Styling Eyes

 I never really used to wear eye shadow, but with the pandemic, eye make-up rapidly became one of the things I've been using to express myself and feel better. For the entirety of 2020, I depended on one palette to see me through, and that was Maquillage's Dramatic Styling Eyes in OR 321.

Now I'm not sure if you can buy the exact product right now off Ebay, but I've looked at the website and boy, do I want to buy their other eye shadow palettes.

Honey Teas

 I love drinking: alcoholic and non-alcoholic, coffee or tea, hot or cold. When I feel like I need a sweet drink, instead of going for a milk tea, or adding sugar to my coffee, I've been going for flavored teas. 

Sometimes, I go for fruity teas, but it's honestly not enough to satisfy my sweet tooth so I've been going for these korean honey teas.

I've just been adding hot water instead of proper tea so it's a sweet and mild caffeine-free merienda/afternoon snack drink.

I've only tried two variants: citron/yuzu based and citron with ginger. I prefer the former but I tend to use the latter when I need a heatier kick. Each jar will cost somewhere between Php 300-Php 700 and I tend to go through one or two a month when it's cold (Dec-Feb) so it's started to become a significant expense. 

It's still significantly cheaper than my previous coffee shop habit, and my parents love it too, so I don't think this will be changing for a while.

Discard: Previous Hada Labo Lotion Reviews

Hada Labo recently reformulated their lotions in 2020, continuing to 2021. For example, the Melano CC lotion has just changed. I'm kinda sad that my previous reviews on the premium and light versions are now obsolete since they've reformulated. Especially as I still had one pending review of the old formulation of the Gokujyun Alpha but since it's now discontinued, I guess that won't be happening. I do like the Alpha Lotion too though.

But I'm very happy that Hada Labo continues to upgrade and improve their products. It seems that unlike some reformulations, the changes are generally for the better. It makes me want to go back to them, but as I am on a low buy, that might take quite a while...

Illiyoon Probiotics Skin Barrier Essence Drop

Illiyoon is a brand I'd never heard of despite existing for quite a while under Amore Pacific, but blew up sometime last year. However, as part of a low buy policy last year (and this year), I didn't end up buying anything from the line until February's 2.2 celebration in which I bought a bunch of masks and this little beauty:

This is just a deluxe size of Illiyoon's Probiotics Skin Barrier Essence Drop. I bought it on shopee and while it's supposed to cost Php 200, I got it for around Php 75 (though I saw that its price sometimes drops to around Php 50 sometimes too).

At first I was hesitant, despite the price, because my skin doesn't like galactomyces ferments and this may have perfume, but I decided to take the risk because the hype got to me.

Time for Tea: Hitejinro Black Bori Roasted Dark Barley Tea

 I love me my Chai Li Won Green Tea, but I've recently been into Barley Tea. I've bought a bunch of tea bags for heated versions, but I've been enjoying this Roasted Dark Barley Tea.

It isn't sweetened, but it's sweet and nutty. It's much richer in taste and darker in color than the normal yellow to green barley drinks. It also feels richer than most hot mugi cha I've had recently (although I haven't had much lately. However, it is very expensive, running at Php 60-70 for a 520 ml bottle and is found only at certain Korean groceries.

I'd also recommend this for everyone for at least a try.

Aveeno: Daily Moisturizing Lotion versus Baby Daily Moisture Lotion

 Aveeno, while not that expensive, is not something that I'd ever thought I'd use. Luckily, I was somehow able to get a sample each of the Daily Moisturizing Lotion and the Baby Daily Moisture Lotion. And ended up recommending the latter for C's baby's use!

Why? It's not just because the second product was meant for babies.

Dental Care 2021

A while ago, I posted my review of my favorite sensodyne toothpaste, and while that hasn't changed, I think it's time to do a dental care post since it's one of the most important things to take care of while you don't have access to or don't want to go to a dentist.

First things first, dental care starts with what you eat. Try not to eat many sugars or acidic foods such as softdrinks since these can wear away your teeth and provide a breeding ground for bacteria. If you do eat or drink meals or snacks,  rinse your mouth with water after every meal. If you can't rinse, at least drink a glass of water after. I don't use toothpicks, but these can be used after meals to take care of loose food between the teeth.

Next is to have a good dental care routine. A good dental routine should actually begin with flossing. Honestly, I only do this once or twice a day but should be done every time before brushing. I'm working on it. Floss between all the spaces between your teeth. I prefer Oral B's Glide series, but I'm currently using Radius' Cranberry floss as a more environmentally friendly alternative. It has been discontinued so I might go back to Oral B or try something else once I finish this. I don't recommend the Watsons brand floss as I find it too hard and stringlike for my tastes. Try for brands that specialize in dental care or dental floss. A good alternative is the waterpik, but I don't have one so I'm not sure which one would be better.

After flossing, brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice or thrice a day. The last one should be after the last meal of the day. Don't eat after your last brush! When brushing, remember to target the interface between gums and teeth and brush in a circular motion. Remember to do both the inner and outer surfaces of the teeth and both the top and the bottom set. Do a quick run through of all the tooth surfaces after. You can use your toothbrush or a separate tongue scraper to do a quick tongue clean.

I haven't tried an electronic toothbrush but this might be a good alternative to a regular one. Still, remember to change your toothbrush regularly at least twice a year and when the bristles get deformed. I've already given my favorite toothpaste, and this hasn't changed but any fluoride containing toothpaste is a good place to start. I don't recommend using charcoal or baking soda because these could actually damage the teeth. Do not rinse your mouth after brushing as you want the toothpaste to coat your teeth after.

Mouthwash is not necessary for a good dental routine. Use mouthwash when you don't have the time or willpower to brush your teeth, and remember to hit both teeth and throat when you gargle.

Nescafe Gold? Try Nescafe Taster's Choice French Roast

 I used to love Nescafe Gold. It was my favorite instant coffee for the longest time.

But things change.

I can't remember when but its packaging changed from the sexy lady packaging (small waist, large top and bottom) to the more aesthetic square cylinder. And it seems like a change in the outside was accompanied by a change in the inside. It was just as aromatic as before, but lost all flavor.

I tried several bottles, from the tiny 50 mg pack to the jumbo 200 mg bottle at different times to no avail. It was lost forever. Yet somehow gaining more popularity thanks to its marketing campaign.

Which I did fall for. But was disappointed by, again and again.

Instead, I have officially switched to Nescafe Taster's Choice in French Roast.

The Face Shop Hand Cream in Acacia Honey

 Really old product but opened only recently...

I really like how this looks and smells, sweet but sophisticated.

While it's not as good as L'Occitane, it's so much cheaper. It's super worth it, especially as we're all washing our hands more. Hope they bring this back soon.

Garnier PureActive Acne & Oil Clearing Foam

 I think I bought this a year or two ago, but I've only ended up emptying it now. But when I say empty, I mean uber empty: I've already cut out the tube and got the last bits out!

Garnier's Acne & Oil Clearing Foam is a long standing product and has been with me for more than a year. I'm glad it's been formulated so well that it didn't smell or look funny even with how long I've had it. So thanks to all those parabens, I guess... I'm not particular about it either way, but in this case, I'm glad they were in there.

I first bought this cleanser because I ran out of a good facial wash and this was easily available at Watsons. After a quick look, I found it had Salicylic Acid (as well as something called HerbaClear), which I always look for in my acne prone skin (at least one salicylic-laden wash per day!) so I ended up buying it.

2021: Sunscreens in Review

 With all the hullabaloo about sunscreens in general, and K-beauty sunscreens in particular, I thought it's a good time to look back on the sunscreens I've been using and which ones I'd recommend right now.

Best for daily use would be Nivea's Super Water Gel from Japan. I've reviewed this before and this is still my favorite sunscreen for daily use (even though I don't have one on hand right now). I tried the Biore Aqua Rich Watery Gel, 2019 formulation (and failed to review because I lost the tube too early :P), but I prefer this more since I don't need a mirror to apply and reapply. The latter sunscreen is also a good runner up if you can't find Nivea locally, but you can find it of shopee (but be sure to find a good reseller).

Best for swimming/sports/heavy use would be Shiseido's Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion. I used the one for sensitive skin (light blue bottle). This is part of the WetForce line and really sticks to the skin. Again, I can't do a full review because I lost the tube... again. Honestly, I didn't like how this looked and felt but this really stuck to my skin as a thick, opaque white film. It actually clung more than some of the old sports sunscreens I've tried. With repeated application every 3 to 4 hours, I had no burning/darkening even at a full day at the beach. If ever beach things are a thing again, this would be my bet.

Best local sunscreen would be Belo SunExpert BODY SPF 60. This is expensive if you really use it daily, but it's the best local sunscreen I've tried. And I've actually used this for both face and body without any problems. Slightly sticky but good enough for daily use. While I haven't done a full review, I have finished a tube of this recently.

I've been trying daily body sunscreens, and I've posted regarding Biore and Nivea's offering. I'd use both, with a preference for Biore right now, but I don't have one I'd solidly recommend to be both cheap and effective for summer. I sometimes use the Belo Body sunblock on hotter days but it's not sustainable for me to use it daily as a sunscreen for its price.

Anyway, I'm actually trying one sunscreen right now, but I'm not too fond of it so I'm opening my first K-beauty sunscreen soon. Still, I've been quite guilty of not using sunscreen as often as I should, so my next real sunscreen post should be in a while.

Better Instant Coffee for 2021? Try G7 Coffee

 You know there's something wrong in the instant coffee world when the cheaper option is so much better than the expensive one.

Take this for example: G7 Coffee Ca Phe Thu Thiet tastes so much better than Starbucks' Via Instant Colombia.

Etude House Color My Brows

Kilay is life, period. This has been true for 2020, and it seems like it'll be the same for 2021. As such, a lot of my make-up spending has been on brow products. Missing a brow mascara, one of the things I've purchased for 2021 is Etude House's Color my Brows in Natural Brown (Number 4). While I've yet to try their popular brow pencil, at least I've given this one a go.

Careline Best Brow Liner in Taupe

 It's been a long while since my last make-up post since I don't use make-up regularly except for eyebrows. For 2020, the most make-up I've used is definitely for the same place, and it's the only one I bother with when going outside the house since I often use a mask and face shield (they're mandatory in the Philippines).

While I'd been using my old eyebrow pencil (more or less with other brow things) until around mid-2020, where my stock finally gave out on me. I promptly bought a new/old pencil by Careline without any googling because it was a kilay-emergency. Did the Best Brow Liner live up to its claims?

Katinko

One of the most unglamorous things you can have in your medicine chest is something you may consider investing in is Katinko.

To those who don't know, Katinko is one of those counter-irritant products full of menthol and camphor that is popular in the Philippines, like Tigerbalm and Icy Hot for muscle pain. But this is different. Special.

The Face Shop Dr. Belmeur Mild Toner

 Ended up buying some stuff from the Face Shop at full price because it was the only place I could buy from. Kind of sad I wasn't able to buy it online, but desperate times!

Originally bought for between Php 750-850 at a physical store, as suggested by a salesperson because I wanted something moisturizing I could layer, and something for sensitive skin. Which, this was.

Product dispensed as a clear liquid that works best by splashing into the hand and patting on. This bottle contained an undisclosed amount of niacnamide, glycerine and some hyaluronic acid. I used one to three "skins" twice a day without any trouble or skin irritation. At that use, one bottle lasted four months so it wasn't bad.

I've tossed the bottle but I think it wa around 150-200 ml? 

I'm a terrible blogger. Haha. I think if I didn't have other things to try, I'd buy this again.

Vita Clear Acne Solutions Cleansing Gel

 Can't believe I finally got around to finishing this bottle of cleanser!

Don't get me wrong, it's not bad. But since I've been using it as a travel cleanser, it's pretty amazing that I've been able to finish it since it IS 2020 right now.

L'Oreal Elseve Hairfall Resist Conditioner

 Okay, I bought this product because it was BIG. At 325 ml a tube, I was sure that I wouldn't run out anytime soon since I didn't want to do a monthly conditioner shop (because plastic and effort). And at Php 220 for that much product, I think it was a win all around.

Mind you, tubes of these do exist for other brands, but they're a bit harder to find where I'm from.

What I liked about this was the scent, sweet but not overpowering, in contrast to the previous mask that may have conditioned well enough but brought no joy to use.  I also liked the way it conditioned my hair without weighing it down. It's supposed to have arginine to prevent hair fall, but I doubt it'd do much good at the tips. I also liked that this lasted nearly three months on my long hair so that's 2 less tubes to buy in a year.

Sadly, I don't think i'll be able to get the last of this out though as I can't cut through the plastic and there seems to be a good bit left. Kind of wasteful. Still not an optimal solution.

I enjoyed using this, but I'll probably try new ones now. Or go back and try old favorites. 2020 has been a year of revisiting old likes, so not much excitement for now.

Suncare 2020

 I seem to have misplaced my Biore Aqua Rich Watery Gel this past month, so this picture isn't complete but this is what I've been using aside from that.

1. Belo Whitening Sunscreen - does the job well enough but I need to blend this in so I need a mirror to apply. Also do not use near the eye area.

2. Belo Body Shield SPF 60 - not quite beach level but really good for sunny days. It' expensive to use daily so this has been around for a while.

3. Biore UV Body Care Serum - Extra Moist - Really have been enjoying this as an everyday lotion (Even more than Nivea since its a good bit easier to spread). Do not use while out in the sun for long periods of time.

Good morning!

Reusing some very good products I've talked about before.

CosRx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser  - forgot how good this was at cleaning my face in the morning.

Sensodyne Repair and Protect - used a different, minty brand for a change and while that made me happy, this is the one that made me feel safe.

Garnier Light Complete Yoghurt Sleeping Mask

 Bought a bunch of small treats for myself a while back and only remembered to talk about it recently, so I've chucked a fair few. One of the ones I've been able to keep was Garnier's Light Complete Yoghurt Sleeping Mask.

I tried this product because I really liked their clay masks, and as things were getting colder, I thought I could do with a sleeping mask to seal things in at night. A look at the back showed the following ingredients at the top: water, dimethicone, niacinamide, glycerin and isohexadecane. So I was sold with the niacinamide and glycerin combination.

I think it was Php 50-80 for 7 ml, so it was a bit expensive for its price, but I liked the squeeze-tube packaging as it was convenient for multiple use.

The product comes as white cream that blends in as you spread it about. You need to use only a little or get ghost-face, which is what happened to me the first time I tried this.  It smells like a citrus car freshener, but the scent disappears after a while and it dries down quickly enough. Skin looks visibly brighter after use so I'm not so sure it will fare well for darker skin types. Afterwards, there seems to be a veeeery slight mochi feel so while it can be used as a sleeping mask, I think others can use this under make-up for that tone-up effect.

The next day, I wake up with normal feeling and looking skin. Which means it works well enough as I've been using air conditioning at night lately.

I'm going to continue using this. Even if this thing is only 7 ml, I think I can get 4 or 5 uses out of this as I only need to use a little bit at night. However, I won't buy this again as I don't like the scent, and I'd rather get something that won't brighten my skin immediately as I'd rather slather my sleeping mask on.

L'Oreal's Elseve Deep Repairing Mask and Cream Silk Triple Keratin Rescue Ultra Conditioner

 Finally writing about these. Net connection has been so bad that I can't post. But I really want to throw these away so here we are.

I haven't been able to write so my finished products have been piling and discarded, but I hung on to these for quite a while. I've finished both a tub of L'Oreal's Elseve Deep Repairing Mask and Cream Silk's Triple Keratin Rescue Ultra Conditioner.

It's been so long but I think the Cream Silk retails for less than Php 200 per 150 ml and the L'Oreal less than Php 400 for a 200 ml tub. I finished the tube in a month or so of daily used. I finished the tub after 6 months, I think? Both dispense a white, opaque cream with the mask being a heavier consistency.

The Cream Silk tube is highly fragranced, in a nice floral way. It's a joy to put on as a daily conditioner. It leaves the hair soft and shiny without weighing it down. Sadly, I have no color on so I can't see its color reviving properties, but I would recommend it for damaged hair.

The tub, on the other hand, smells meh? It's not a product I look forward to using but it definitely deep conditions. I only use it twice a week, else it leaves my hair too oily the next day. It does work the way it ought to, so I have no complaints.

I like trying new products so I won't repurchase for a while. However, for those on a budget, I'd recommend the Cream Silk Triple Keratin Rescue line for those with damaged hair, especially if you want a hair treat at the start or end of th day.

Skincare Routine: Covid Edition

 I'm keeping this short and sweet, like my skincare routine!

Anyway... skincare in the time of Covid isn't one size fits all so you have to listen to your skin.

If you're using cloth masks/surgical masks that tend to stick to the skin, you probably need to hydrate, hydrate and seal because having the mask stuck to the face tends to leave the skin clogged and dehydrated.

If you're wearing N95s/respirators, you probably need to hydrate a little, and occlude only the parts that are meant to be sealed since the long wear makes the mask environment super humid.

Once size doesn't fit all.

Head and Shoulders Supreme Moisture and Smooth

 Took a break from the virtual world and ended up with a lot of empties I ended up not talking about and just... tossing. Because I don't like storing things for too long :/

Yes. They are technically two different variants of the same style.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash

Another basic, but satisfying empty. This isn't the first empty this lockdown, but the first I'll be posting. I purchased this a long time ago because I wanted to see how an older me would feel about this compared to a younger me... and true enough, my skin has changed!

This old, orange salicylic acid wash is super effective at keeping me acne-free (more now than when I was younger and suffering more hormonal break outs), but it is significantly drying if I use it twice a day (thus, it took so long to finish). I don't get all the hate though, as it is NOT the terrible thing some bloggers make it out to be. I'd still recommend this for younger, oilier, acne-prone skin types on a small budget... for use once a day as an evening cleanse. In fact, I best enjoyed using this as a second cleanse after an oil cleanser. After a relatively long massage with an oil, use this next. You only need to keep it on your face for 30 seconds, and everything's gone.

Other bonus: pump bottle. Top not seen because it's so manky now. Glad I can toss this out soon.

Short Rant

Beauty related content, specifically in the form of YT videos, is something I've turned to even more at this trying time. I don't have to leave my bed and spend my hard earned money on products I'm pretty sure I would lust over, but not necessarily use frequently.

Recently, and most glaringly on a local beauty queen, on this platform, I've seen a lot of influencers say that they like product A because its natural, eco-friendly and recyclable packaging. It's good for the environment and it's something that they look for/like in a product.

In the same video, they will then talk about adoring product B, which is mostly a one use product such as a make-up wipe or face mask that very effective and convenient but contains a lot of plastic and/or packaging waste.

That's not to say you can't like both. But admit to yourself and to others that the environment is NOT a major concern when buying things. It's just a nice bonus.

CoViD-19

We're facing a global pandemic with over 1,000,000 people infected with SARS-COV-2.

Things people have been told to do:

1. Practice physical/social distancing (1 to 2 meters depending on the source).
2. Frequent hand hygeine (20 secs with soap and water or 70% alcohol)
3. Stay at home unless you really need to.

Now, an additional recommendation has been given which is to wear masks (and this will probably be part of the new normal).

But please don't hoard surgical masks, N95s or FFP3s as our frontliners need them most.

The alternative: cloth masks. Make them yourself or buy them from others.  But use these when you're outside.

Human Nature Rescue Balm in Tea Tree & Lavender

I don't know if my love for lavender is known to the world, but I was a thankful recipient of Human Nature's Rescue Balm in Tea Tree and Lavender.

Thanks family!

Junk Food for Face

While I am one of the (lucky?) few who get to go to work right now, I've felt a greater need to de-stress during this trying time. Because the first quarter of the year isn't over, and 2020 has been terrible so far.

Still, am genuinely lucky to be where I am and able to afford such a luxury as below. And I'm glad this got to me before lockdown.

Long Term Travel Shelf

Haven't released a Shelf for Jan 2020 because of travel reasons. But... here is what I have been packing for travels lasting more than a week.

Full sized products!

I find it easier to just grab these three instead of repeated packing. In here are:

1. Bella Curls Shampoo and Conditoner: review to follow but packed because of packaging.

2. Peter Thomas Roth 3% Glycolic Solutions Cleanser: For face AND body needs.

I've been pretty lazy and ill recently. Hope I get back to my normal self soon...

Revlon Colorstay Makeup for Combination/Oily Skin

Writing about this foundation right as I'm tossing it in the trash.

I bought this foundation long before the rise of L'Oreal's Infallible. Which means this foundation is already over 2 years old. I wouldn't mind normally, but I've started to break out with this so...

Time to bin and buy!

I haven't felt comfortable reviewing it since I use so little foundation. As you may be able to see, I've barely used a fifth of it in the two years I've had it with me. But now that its lifespan is over, I think I can safely say my thoughts about Revlon's Colorstay, a foundation for Combination/Oily Skin.

In Her Element Rose Moisture Mist

 I think it's very apt to talk about rose products near Valentines Day. But... it is a bit late.

Still, I can't stop gushing about this Rose Moisture Mist!

As you may know, In Her Element is a local brand that has been around for a relatively short time. While my skin doesn't agree with some of IHE's products, I do keep my eye on it. Why? IHE is basically the sister/child of a blog/website I still follow from my college days: Project Vanity. Proudly Filipina owned and developed by grandmother/mother (of the brand) Liz Lanuzo, IHE is a brand I really want to like.

Maybelline Hypercurl in Waterproof

No valentines? No problem. Laugh or cry with Maybelline's Waterproof Mascara, a cheap but effective lash lengthener.

At Php 199, often going for Php149, try it or toss it.

The formula itself is best wet, freshly opened. Sadly, it has a tendency to dry out quickly soon after. Lashes are significantly lengthened, but a bit clumpy. The best part though, as the name implies, is the curl it gives- even sans curler! A boon for lazy mornings.

Remove with a good eye make up remover.

V&M Underarmour Acai+Mulberry Brightening and Detoxifying Deodorant

Bought this on BOGO ages ago and it seems I haven't reviewed it yet? So strange.

Flormar Deluxe Cashmere Lipstick Stylo

Ok I bet this product is old, but sadly I've only started using it now since I got it.

Flormar's Deluxe Cashmere, as its name suggests, looks luxe, but does it perform as well as higher end lipsticks?

On the short, no.

My shade DC24 or Red Boston is a super flattering pinkish red that can be used sheer, semi sheer or all out party! Super pigmented, with a satin finish that looks great when swiped, especially when built up.

However, two very important things make it annoying to use. First, the round tip makes it hard to create a precise line. Second, the formula is super dry and tugs like crazy.

Not exactly a cashmere experiemce.

However, I'm pretty happy with the shade and will continue to use it as even if purchased a long while back, it has a pretty long expiration.

Given by C so I have no idea how much this costs...

Palmolive Expertique Resiliente Conditioner

Honestly bought two different variants of the Palmolive Expertique Conditioners because I forgot about buying one and ended up buying another.

....

3 New Things to Do or What I've Done Over the Holidays

Read: Eight Treasures Trosseau

What: A chinese novel lovingly translated into English about a girl transmigrating to ancient china. Transmigration isn't an important part of the story (not a Fushigi Yuugi type story, unfortunately), but good for period drama juicy things (imperial succession, not inner courtyard).

Where: link through Novel Updates or translator at Dreams of Jianghu

Watch: Messiah

What: If a Jesus-like figure appears on Earth this millenium, how would he be treated. What is he? Lord, liar or lunatic? Kinda boring at times but very thought provoking.

Where: Netflix or friendly pirates?

Play: Obey Me!

What: Reverse harem game that's more about the story (linear progression) and art. Actual game is pretty boring, but the boys are to pretty not to stare at. Good if you like anime-like things.

Where: Play on Phone.

NYE Lips: Long Lasting Lips

I'm not going out today because I got so tired from ushering in the new year. Thus, this tutorial spawned from waking up with my make-up on. Yes, it's bad for you but my lips have officially lasted through 20 hours and 3 (not oily) meals.

Here's how I did it.

Salonpas Liniment vs. Sombra Natural Pain Relieving Gel

I can't believe I'm ending the year with a period, but such is life. Because of that, I'd like to compare two topical pain relievers I like to use at this trying time: Salonpas and Sombra.

Mind you, I still use my Creations balm, but I reserve that for bedtime and light muscle aches since I like to associate lavender with sleep time. For daytime relief, I will choose one of these two.

Salonpas Liniment

Over the years, I've used other liniments in different formats, but Salonpas in this crude roller format has been my go-to for quite a few years: It's cheap, targeted to problem areas and you don't have to touch the product itself. I have bought this quite a load of times, and stash these around the house and in bags. The Cold/Heat/Irritation is strong but doesn't last very long. This makes sense as the product is a clear, watery fluid that offers fast pain relief. The downside is the same with all liniments, the lingering smell.

Sombra Gel

Something I've only been introduced to this year, as it is significantly more expensive than most liniments. It comes in a large tub and is a white, jelly to cream consistency that is excellent to spread over large areas. Unlike other topical pain relievers, this one feels soothing on the skin with a slight citrusy? scent. The counter-irritation is strong with residual heat, and can be layered for potency.

I'm pretty impressed with the product, but I don't know if I'll buy it for myself (this product was given to me) as it is so expensive and both of my go to products are a fraction of the price...But I really thankful for having this in my life right now.

Nivea Sun Super Water Gel

Always thought I'd be using Biore as my sunscreen this 2019, but since a relative went to Japan recently, I decided to try my luck with Nivea Sun Super Water Gel despite previous misgivings about other Nivea sunscreens. After all, how terrible could a Japanese sunscreen gel be?

Well, long story short is, not at all!

Holiday 2019

My only holiday buy for 2019 and I've already started using it. 100% must buy, no regrets. I don't think I need to make a comprehensive review? But if you can still get your mitts on this, you definitely should!!

Of course, only if you have damaged hair.

When I Wear Eye Make Up

I'm still happy to use my old eye make up remover.

Coz it still looks goods after!

Osulloc Natural Green Green Tea Essence

Osulloc's Natural Green Green Tea Essence is something I've been using and loving for about over a year. I've only now gotten around to reviewing it since I've been trying to make it last... even if I know that you're not supposed to. But as this is a not so mainstream K beauty product, I've been rationing it since it's so good and I've no idea where to get it again.

Osulloc is a Jeju, Korea based brand that prides itself on their teas. They have a lot of drinkable teas which are way too expensive for me to buy! As for skincare, their masks are their best sellers, but I'm not gonna pay crazy prices for a one use item. Thus, I decided to try this and see where it goes.

Spoiler: I love it.

Unlimited Water in Hotel Hack

Is it just me, or is it a fact of life that the higher end the hotel, the more limited your complimentary water supply is? While I can refill my water flask for free at certain inns/hostels/hotels, I've never seen a water dispenser in those fancy shmancy ones that I (very rarely) go to.

Rather than call for service, and possibly paying extra, here's what I use to stay hydrated:

Tap Water+Kettle = Drinking Water.

Yep. I usually boil as much as I can once I wake up, have a cup or two of coffee, and use the rest for later. If the room comes with a ref, I'll sometimes store it in there once the water cools.

Granted, this will be difficult for tired people who just want lots of free, and hopefully iced water, but this helps keep my costs down, with less plastic waste, when I, myself, travel.

5 Things You Should Know About Reusable Menstrual Pads

I've recently been transitioning from disposable pads (see previous posts on favorites) to reusable cloth pads and here are 5 things I think people should know before buying one:

1. Not all pads are created equal. Aside from coming in different sizes, and shapes, pads come in different materials. Some have waterproof backings and some have removable inserts. Think about WHY you want to use reusable pads because microfiber cloths and impermeable materials mean plastic but mean a bit more security down there. Do your research instead of buying the first one you see.

2. Be prepared to use a lot of water and soap. Either toss 'em in a washing machine or handwash, but don't start until you have a good soaking, or you'll just be spreading that period smell (and possible germies) around. Soak at least once! Yes, some people just toss the lot in a washing machine, but I don't recommend doing this unless those pads are the ONLY thing you'll wash in that load.

3. The sun is your best friend. Leave them out in the sun for a few hours after to make sure you kill any bacteria hanging around. Put the design side down to better preserve that pattern, but I'd rather have a pad with a shorter lifespan than a contaminated one. You're better off with disposable pads if you can't make the commitment of letting them dry, because infections are not a good thing.

4. Pads are absorbent, but not foolproof. You can still leak, especially if you choose one without absorbent backing or an extra lining during those heavy days. Additionally, sizing and fitting is still necessary. Make sure it doesn't slide by choosing the correct size (and using tight-ish undies) and changing when needed.

5. Ask questions if you are unsure or do your research beforehand. I wish I didn't have to say this, but I've seen videos on YouTube where pads were used the wrong way, so ask if you're not sure or check the FAQs on reputable sources before checking out.

There are many advantages for using reusable cloth pads, and I'm certainly glad of my purchase. However I'm pretty sure they aren't for everybody.

+1: Use whatever feels right for you and don't let anyone shame you for your choices.