Thursday 18 December 2014

[Beauty Review]: 3CE- Glossing Waterful Foundation

I am never a supporter of heavy make-up. I prefer natural look. My daily make-up routine pretty much revolves around Eyebrow, Eyeliner, Mascara, CC cream, Concealer, Blusher & Lips. Until i tried this 3CE Glossing Waterful foundation, i was blown away by its' results. A foundation that could be so feathery light that i fall in love with it after my first try. 


Glossing Waterful Foundation comes in 4 different tone. The helpful tip above should be able to assist you in making the best choice. 


The palm sized bottle consist of 40g of the liquid foundation, which consist a beneficial SPF15 PA+ sunscreen protection.




I bought the foundation in shade: Natural Ivory because i have a fairer and light skin tone and it matches me perfectly. Otherwise, you could have chosen the pink tone too. If you have a pale-looking face, go for the warm tone. If you have an average skin tone, go for the beige. 




Nice packaging- The glass bottle is nicely wrapped in a black colored paper box. The foundation is housed in a sturdy frosted glass bottle and has a drop applicator. The lid has a very classy matte finish. 

As you can see, it has an ultra lightweight fluid consistency and leaves a soft dewy ‘wet-like’ finish. 

Overall, thumbs up for this product! This is great for an everyday foundation! It has a dewy finish and I love how it is so natural without looking caked on. The formula has very high water content so it melds into the skin with no blending required, and leaves absolutely no trace of foundation marks on the face. It has no shimmer but gives a lit-within radiant glow, and the hydrating formula works well with dry skin as it doesn’t enhance any dry patches and pores. However, due to it's light texture, it can't cover up your flaws and blemishes perfectly like other foundation. If you are worrying for blemishes, i would recommend natural make-up base or covering them with concealer to avoid applying too much foundation. As i was saying, the coverage is quite sheer which it is meant to be – it only evens out the complexion and covers small imperfections. If you have relatively good skin to begin with and like the minimum bare-face dewy look, this foundation would be your match made in heaven. Otherwise it is recommended to use a BB cream underneath this foundation for a more polished look.
PS: Before using the foundation, do remember to shake and mix well! Just apply a small amount on wide areas and spread it outwards. 


Where to buy?
Stylenanda Hongdae Main Store:
335-21, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
Tel: +82-2-333-9215
Website: en.stylenanda.com
Seoul Myeongdong Lotte Young Plaza level 2
Seoul Jamsil Lotte department store level 2
Daegu Lotte young plaza level 1
Incheon Lotte department store level 2

Thanks for reading and i will see you guys in my next 3CE review :)

Saturday 29 November 2014

[Beauty Review]: Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum

Many have envied the flawless and translucent skin of Korean women. Do you want to know the secret of achieving good glowing skin? Well, it does not come by being lazy...

I'm going to introduce you, Korea's No1 Luxury Skincare brand- Sulwhasoo. 
One of the oldest beauty brands to come out of South Korea, Sulwhasoo was founded in 1967 by its company’s head, Sung Whan Suh. The skincare system he developed is based on Korean herbal medicines – it blends oriental medicinal herbs drawn from ancient wisdom of the “Sang-seng” philosophy which is based on balancing the inner energies of the skin to produce a nourished healthy complexion.

In today's post, i will be reviewing on Sulwhasoo// Essential line: First Care Activating SerumEssential line consists of 6 items such as the First Care Activating SerumEssential Balancing Water, Essential Balancing EmulsionEssential Rejuvenating Eye CreamEssential Firming cream and Overnight Vitalizing Mask

Formulated with Korean Medicinal Herbs, this essential regimen boosting serum assures optimal skin care results, promoting balance and replenishing essential moisture and nutrients. Membranous Milk-vetch promotes natural skin circulation and Dwarf Lily turf and Licorice boost synergy among herbal extracts to restore skin’s natural healthy radiance. Absorbing instantly and deep within the skin, this serum leaves the skin soft, smooth and supple, prepares skin to receive treatment and boosts the efficacy of skin care used throughout the regimen.

The pump dispenser is great, just the way i like it! It's easy to handle and dispense just the right amount of product in a sanitary manner. 


After facial wash in the morning and evening, pump about 2times onto palm and apply with finger tips. Gently wrap the face and neck with hands to help absorption of the product. 

From the picture below, you can see a clear liquid with a brownish tinge. It has a slight gel-like texture to it however absorption into the skin is quick and easy despite of the thicker consistency. There is a faint herbal smell. It isn’t unpleasant, at least not to my nose. I love the scent as i find it relaxing. If you are comfortable with strong herbal, medicinal scents of Chinese herbs like ginseng, then you will be fine with it. If you aren’t then you may have to take some time to get used to the scent and enjoy the experience of lathering it on your skin.

Ingredients
All of Sulwhasoo’s ingredients are natural ingredients native to Korea and raised through a meticulous process on their very own Amorepacific herb farm under the most excellent conditions. Some key ingredients that make Sulwhasoo so beneficial and effective:
Ginseng
 In Korean history, young ladies in noble families would bathe in ginseng water before their wedding to refine their skin bright and pure. They also enjoyed fresh-drawn ginseng tea to prevent freckles and fine lines. Saponin is known for its effect in increasing level of immunity, regeneration, anti-aging, and antioxidant effects. The reason why Korean Ginseng is more famous than others is that it has twice as many types of saponin and about 40% more content with excellent effect. Sulwhasoo uses a 4-year old Ginseng, which known to have the highest saponin content. Sulwhasoo created matchless material after a long research on Ginseng. Sulwhasoo also researches on the effect of Ginseng’s various parts, such as its leaves, fruits, and roots to apply into the products.

Solomonseal: Treats dryness and improves skin resilience.
Rehmannia: Promotes circulation, treats age-spots and dullness, and increases hydration.
White Lily: Refines and brightens skin.
Chinese Peony: Makes your treatment anti-inflammatory.
East Indian Lotus: Moisturizes and promotes circulation, and restores healthy skin.

Skincare Tips

The philosophy behind Korean skincare is to layer products and seal them in. Ensuring that the skin properly moisturized, and products are applied in order of their density- from the thinnest to the thickest. My skincare repertoire include: face cleansing oil, gentle roaming face wash, toner, Serum, Essence, Lotion, sleeping pack and sheet mask. Some of which are not daily products, they are used only in the evening. Once it becomes part of your regime, it really doesn't take much time at all! I use Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum in the morning too. I would start with toner->Serum->Essence and lastly lotion. 

Sulwhasoo's first care activating serum is a good choice for most skin types. However, some people may suffer breakouts when they first start using this product because their skin is unfamiliar with the herbal ingredients. All should be settled within a fortnight, and visible results will be revealed within a month.

For my experience, i do not suffer any breakouts. I have started using this for weeks, and i'm loving it! It's hydrating and my skin does feel less dry, smooth and subtle. 

Admittedly to say, Sulwhasoo is indeed expensive. But if you’re looking for an indulgent delight that delivers some beautiful results, this is absolutely worth the price.

Store locator//Singapore:Tangs Orchard, Tangs Vivo City, Takashimaya Department Store and Robinson Orchard
Store locator// South Korea: Seoul, Kyunggido, Daejun, Daegu, Gwangju,Busan and Jejudo
Store locator// Taiwan: Pacific SOGO Department Store, Zhongxiao Museum, Taipei and Taichung Taichung SOGO Department Store
Sulwhasoo is also available in USA, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia.

Thanks for reading~
I'll be reviewing on the next product- Essential Balancing Water, do follow-up if you are keen to know more :)

Thursday 16 October 2014

[Food Review]: Seriously Ice-cream Cafe

New kid in the hipster hood of Everton, located just a few shops away from Nylon Coffee Roasters is the 'Seriously Ice-cream cafe'.  

These ice-cream are made with the aim to be healthier- without preservatives and less sugar. 
Flavors changed periodically. New flavors creation on a weekly basis- the mystery flavor, guess it right and you will be given a free scoop of ice-cream! :)
During my visit, interesting flavors on display were Onde-Onde, Rose Pu'er, Miso Gula Melaka, Choco Curry, White pepper, Red velvet, Caramel Popcorn, French Vanilla, Bailey Cream Cheese and Strawberry Basil. 
The ice-cream here are of a slush-like consistency, the flavor takes an unconventional combination of two unrelated ingredients. It is more of an acquired taste. I would suggest, try them before making your purchase. Some may appeal to you, some may not. 



 Beside being an ice-cream parlor, there is also a retail section that sells various accessories like bags, glasses, bracelet, bowties etc. 





Had a scoop of Miso Gula Melaka and Rose Pu'er. The ice-cream was less creamier and pretty refreshing. Waffles was light, airy, crispy and taste exactly like waffles cone. 

WEDNESDAY SPECIAL!!!
I had their waffles on Wednesday special where it's at 1/2 price with purchase of 2 scoops of ice-cream.
Seriously delicious, very friendly owner, affordable pricing and great place to chill. 
Do come down and check it out! Get your scoops on their crispy and airy waffles if you desire :)

To locate:
Blk 4 Everton Park #01-44 
Singapore 080004 
Phone: 9621 6889 
Mon: 12:30pm-9:00pm 
Wed - Thu: 12:30pm-9:00pm
Fri - Sat: 11:00am-11:00pm
Sun: 11:00am-9:00pm

Tuesday 26 August 2014

[Food Review]: The much awaited vist to Sunday Folks

The best waffles in town, have you tried? 
Said to be the sister establishment of popular dessert parlor, Cremier. Barely one month old and the new ice cream parlor- 'Sunday Folks' has been causing a stir in Chip Bee Gardens, numerous people have constantly Instagrammed their famed waffles & soft serve ice-cream.

We were there on a Sunday afternoon and especially since it's a new outlet, the place was fully packed.  Without a proper queue system, it will most probably take you about an hour of not-so-surreptitiously standing by the table to get a seat so i suggest you to come earlier if you do not want to meet the crowd. 

'Sunday Folks' has a clean yet modern design. There isn't any clutter but a lot more spacious, such as high-counter in the middle of the parlor with menus placed on top. The interior is cozy and warm. Decor is very minimal, with a few flower vases on tables, some potted plants on shelves, wood & copper finishings and the usual spotlight lighting.

Water dispenser for Plain Water

The dessert counter{Some selection of cakes that changed daily}

 
The menu
{With the pre-fixed of 6 signature soft serve ice-cream to choose from: Dark Chocolate, Summer Strawberries, Roasted Pistachio, Earl Grey Lavender, Madagascar Vanilla and Seasalt Gula Melaka. Besides serving them with waffles, they also serve them in cone/cup with pre-selected toppings to choose from. For both ice-cream and waffles, the price are affordable although i do find that their cone/cup pricing to be slightly steep. 
Oh yes! Not to forget.......everyone's favorite- NO GST AND SERVICE CHARGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A wide range of toppings for customization!
{Standard toppings/sauce-$1.50 and Premium toppings- $1.90}

Belgian Waffles topped with a scoop of summer strawberry soft serve{$11.80}
Please do not ask me which flavor is the best because i think it boils down to personal preference... 
First impression? Very pretty and thankfully, instagram-worthy from almost every angle :P 
So there it is.....their famed waffles- MUST ORDER! Waffles was perfect- with a good crisp along the edges and fluffy interior that wasn't too soggy, definitely one of the best i have eaten. Along with that, the ice-cream was a dream- creamy and smooth. It does not melt easily too. As for the toppings, they are more than a mouthful. Each waffles comes with toppings like blueberries and strawberries but if you would like to have other more toppings, you can add them. Home-made sauces like caramel and chocolate hazelnut can be added too, proving there are truly endless way to have your ice-cream.


SeaSalt Cula Melaka{$7.20}
Came with a Sesame cracker atop, which was crispy, fragrant and packs a crunchy texture to the smooth soft serve, along with japanese mochi. The saltness was neutral. Soft-serve was stellar, smooth and flavorful.

If you have yet to visit 'Sunday Folks', please do! Trust me, you will not be disappointed. 
If waffles aren't your thing, there are other offerings too.
Cakes on the other hand, like Japanese matcha cake, matcha roll, were highly recommended too! 
Good food, good vibe...I'm definitely coming back again to try their cones and other flavors! 

'Sunday Folks' is located at 44 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-52, Chip Bee Gardens, Singapore
(nearest MRT: Holland Village, Circle Line). Opening hours: 12noon-10pm. Closed on Monday.

Keep a look out of the signboard as you might give it a miss if you weren't aware of your surroundings. 

Thanks for reading~ :) 














Sunday 20 July 2014

[Food Review]: Yellow Cup Coffee

Yellow Cup Coffee is located along Havelock Road, at Central Square. It's just across the road from Ministry of Manpower. Inspired by the bustling coffee culture of the Big Apple- New York City, Yellow Cup Coffee joined the ranks of many young and vibrant new cafes around the island with a goal to serve first-rate coffee to its customers. The cafe is styled in a pop-art concept, featuring many super heroes around. The cafe is quiet and spacious. 








The distinct yellow cup used were meant to evoke the feelings of happiness, cheeriness and be spotted a mile away by a one-eyed pirate. 


With an inventory of coffee beans sourced from Nicaragua, El Salvador and even Hawaiian, the lattes boasted impressively rich flavors and a thick crema. 

To ensure the quality of their coffee, Yellow Cup uses the top of the line La Marzocco Strada EP3Group Espresso Machine, and the coffee is calibrated daily with the optimal extraction with the pressure profiling technology of Strada to ensure that the coffee beans are not over or under extracted. 

Yellow Cup Coffee/Drinks menu

Menu for waffles, sandwiches, main dish + side dish

Gotten myself a cup of Hawaiian latte- $6.80
Beyond the super adorable coffee art, the coffee at Yellow Cup was fantastic. Although, i find that the coconut flavor was too artificial and disruptive, pretty much disrupting the taste of coffee beans. Overall, It was smooth blend, very fragrant, not too bitter nor acidic. I guess they found the balance between everything and created a magical brew. So lovely! 

Along with the latte, i had Fruity waffles- $8
Kind of disappointing...It doesn't taste as nice as it seems to be. The waffle base wasn't well-made, it was really dry. This was a straight-forward conclusion after biting into an excess of baked batter that was really tasteless and full of baking soda. It was crispy but that let alone really wasn't enough as there was no fluffy to talk about. 

Given how much effort and thought they have put in to decorate the cafe and inventing flavors for their menu, i'm sure they are one of those that deserve to go a long way in the cafe industry. For great coffee and affordable prices with an amazing ambience, New york Style- Yellow Cup Coffee is definitely worth a visit. They might be a bit rough around the edges at the moment in terms of their coffee/ food executions..but should get better in time.

To locate
Central Square, 20 Havelock Rd #01-09 S059765






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