GARNIER MICELLAR CLEANSING WATER If you’ve been following me long enough on this blog, you’d know that I love my Bioderma, but it’s quite pricey comparing to this affordable one from Garnier. This pink version is made for normal to sensitive skin, so I chose this one to purchase for the first time ever. Let me know if you want a comparison review with Bioderma ones. Price IDR 29K for 125ml
SILCOT MAXIMIZER COTTON I believe this was my second purchase of this cotton pads. I don’t use it to apply toner to wipe. But these are very good if you do CSM (Chizu Saeki Method). It can contain the toner long enough to hydrate while masking away with CSM. Frankly speaking, I don’t use this method frequently, just when I feel my skin is irritated or need extra loving care. Price IDR 29K for 1 box of 40 sheets.
LIESE CREAMY BUBBLE COLOR During pandemic, I DIY my hair color, because doing it in salon will take more than 2 hours indoor and it’s quite pricey. This brand is from KAO, produced in Japan and claimed to be number one hair coloring in Japan. Now available officially in Indonesia, so it’s relatively affordable. Easy to spread, because it comes in a bubbly foam texture, but I don’t recommend this if you want to cover gray hair. Price IDR 144K
In one of his YT video, world renowned makeup artist, Hung Vanngo said that he loves to use vitamin C under makeup, because it’s brightening. And obviously I can’t agree more, skin prep before makeup is very very important. Even without makeup on (the way I live these days during pandemic), I love how it create that healthy glow from within (not a fake dewy look, which I hate btw).
After all these years avoiding vitamin C in my skincare ingredients, because it irritated my sensitive and acne-prone skin, now I am a proud user. Thanks to this Vitamin C serum from Peter Thomas Roth (by the way, this is the second serum that I love from the brand-the first one is the Water Drench one).
How does it differ from another vitamin C serum that I’ve tried and dislike? Instead of using L-Ascorbic Acid which commonly found in many vitamin C serum, this uses 20% of THD Ascorbate (Tetrahexydecyl Ascorbate). Even though this THD thing is 50 times more powerful than traditional vitamin C, but it is way more stable and with higher pH level, it is less irritating. Yes, this is not an ordinary vitamin C serum, people!
It is safe for Fungal Acne
With additional 3% Vitamin E and 2% Ferulic Acid, it is a booming anti-oxidant that delivers not just brightening purpose, but anti-aging and firming as well. It is great if you are like me, having uneven skin tone problem and texture.
Milky texture with a slight hint of citrus scent, this is a moisturizing serum. Therefore, it won’t instantly disappeared onto the skin, but it left a moist and healthy looking skin. Which is why this is great for morning use before sunscreen. You do know that vitamin C and sunscreen is a power couple, right? Using vitamin C and sunscreen has been shown to be more effective at neutralizing free radical damage from sun exposure.
So yes, I have been pairing this serum with my sunscreen. It is currently one of my tried-and-true favorite. Not cheap, though, but worth every single pump.
You can buy it here and get special promo while it lasts. I’d definitely repurchase this!
So my dream bra would have lifting & support purposes but does not add volume, wide sides to cover up side fats, look elegant with delicate laces, but non-irritating for my sensitive skin.
Enter FELANCY FULL SECRET BRA from FELANCY INTIMATE, one of my favorite lingerie brand (they also have comfortable sleeping wear) with premium materials. I am a true believer that the best bra should be supportive, comfortable, and help to enhance our ‘assets’.
Well, these bras ticks all the boxes. Underwired for support, they’re also non-padded, so I believe they’re also great for big busts. Trust me, it’s hard to find a bra that is both comfortable and pretty, but these does just that. Try it yourself, and you may just change your bra wearing experience for the better.
You can purchase these directly from their website https://www.felancy.co.id and use my code SHINTAXFELANCY to get special promo (IDR50K discount for IDR150K purchase).
This is going to be a simple review, just because this moisturizer is that simple.
Simple ingredients’ list, simple packaging, and simple intended customers. Basically, those who want to simply moisturize without worrying that it’ll break you out or irritate you further. And the best part, it is safe for Fungal Acne! (Finally, a Krave Beauty product that’s safe for FA).
It fits right in to my current 3 Steps Moisture Method craze (thanks to Olena Beley who commented to my IG video earlier this month). Read here if you missed my post about Olena’s tips.
I use this as the final step of my hydrating steps, because it does contain Capric Triglyceride and Squalane, the perfect emollients to seal all in. And being on Adapalene journey, my skin also needs soothing moisturizer, so this just completes me, by having Oatmeal Extract as one of the ingredient. Yes, I also mix this with EVALEN Adapalene Krim 0.1% to reduce the concentration and lessen the risk of Adapalene’s side effects. And this moisturizer helped me a lot during my Adapalene’s nights (so far I’m only at week 1, but I’ll write about the journey soon).
Look at its’ luscious white and milky texture. It has no scent, and it just glides softly when applied. It also mix wonderfully with almost everything that I applied before it (actives, hydrating toner, humectant). It melts right away in contact with the skin, and absorb really well without leaving any film or dewy look.
It’s silicone free, gluten free, fragrance free and essentials oil free. For me personally, there are only two misses for this moisturizer, it still contains Butylene Glycol which has comedogenic rating (luckily it didn’t trigger mine). And the jar packaging. Being a practical girl, I don’t really dig plastic jar. It took a while for me to finally close the lid properly. I wish it comes in pump packaging instead.
Wait, WTH is active? It is the ingredient in a product that addresses our skin concern. It has been proven in a lab by research to change our skin in each of its’ own way.
Check the ingredients’ list on your skincare products, and you might found familiar actives such as Vitamins (A, C & E are the most common ones), Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, AHA, BHA, and Benzoyl Peroxide.
Based on my experience, I’d probably recommend not to use any actives if your fungal acne is still flaring up. The simpler your skincare routine is the better. But, if you decided to add one to your regimen, based on my own personal experiences, I’d recommend these:
MY GO-TO GLYCOLIC ACID
EXFOLIATING ACIDS Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid & Salicylic Acid. Lactic comes from lactobacillus which you might suddenly think of yoghurt. Well, this specific active might help to control the production of the yeast. Glycolic is a type of AHA (same like Lactic) that’s derived from sugar cane. Salicylic Acid is a BHA, known for reducing acne & keeping pores clear. You have to try which one is the best for your skin, though.
MY GO-TO HYALURONIC ACID
HYALURONIC ACID Also known as hyaluronan, it’s actually a substance that can also be found in our body and naturally produced by our body. It helps to hold water and keep our skin hydrated and plump.
MY COLLECTION OF NIACINAMIDE
NIACINAMIDE It is a water soluble derivative of vitamin B3, that help to visibly minimize enlarge pores, improve uneven skin tone and strengthen a weakened surface.
TIPS:
The downside of using active ingredients is the risk of potential adverse reactions, so it’s recommended to start with lowest concentration levels of actives.
Even though some actives are usually compatible with others, like Niacinamide with AHA, BHA or Vitamin C, better to go solo. Yes, use one active at a time due to FA attack.
Stick to the rules on when to apply each of them (day or night or twice in a day), do not go overboard.
HAPPY 2020, y’all. The very first post on a new year.
I’m so looking forward to try and review more local brands this year. Watch out for this space!
Just launched last year, SOMETHINC already has their Halal Certification. And thanks to Irene from IG @beautyhaulindo for sending me their skincare products to try and review.
I guess The Ordinary really set the bar for many skincare brands to develop high quality and honest ingredients with super affordable prices. These remind me a lot of The Ordinary, right from the glass pipette bottles to the ingredients. Affordably priced at IDR115k a pop, they are all fungal-acne safe. Just remember, even though the ingredients sound so legit, you won’t see any instant result after using these. Everything takes time, dear.
AHA BHA PHA PEELING SOLUTION Claim: Help to clean clogged pores, remove dead skin cells & maintain skin moisture level. OK, judging from the look and feel, it really reminds me of The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. The difference? The percentage of the acids. This only has 3% of AHA, 1% BHA and 2% of PHA. The rest is a great combination of Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate and Panthenol. I do recommend this for those who have sensitive skin like me, but want to experience the chemical peeling sensation at home. How to use? Make sure your skin is clean and completely dry. Apply evenly and avoid eyes area. Then wait for 10 minutes max and rinse with warm water, continue with your regular skincare routine. Just treat this like your weekly facial mask. My suggestion: Try once a week first. Then if your skin can tolerate it, apply twice a week.
NIACINAMIDE + MOISTURE BEET SERUM Claim: boosts barrier function by increasing ceramide production and fight free radicals & moisturize the skin. Same percentage of Niacinamide like The Ordinary (10%), but this contains Beet Extract from Swiss. Texture wise, its’ texture is thicker than The Ordinary but didn’t clump under makeup (which is a good thing). If you want to lessen the thick feel, use it after a mist toner while your skin is half dry. If you are not used with high percentage of Niacinamide, try using this once a day instead of thrice a day like suggested.
HYALURONIC B5 Claim: Promotes a maximum moisture, helps soften and brighten dull skin and make skin looks more supple and healthy. This is very similar to The Ordinary, except this contains Butylene Glycol (might trigger comedo). Texture is thinner than The Ordinary, with no scent. It’s just like water, a good one. This is my go-to serum after applying Retinol. It seems to calm down my skin after harsh actives. And for sure, you can layer this with their Niacinamide + Moisture Beet, or apply this after rinsing that AHA BHA PHA Peeling Solution.
Been in a very tough situation lately, I have to admit this is not a very good year for me. And I’m sure you’ve heard it everywhere, when you are stressed, so does your skin. Just look at my stress acnes!
I’ve been fighting them for about two weeks now, but I know I’m not alone. So I decided to do some research online and write down this post.
WHAT CAUSED STRESS ACNE? Obviously, STRESS. And if your skin is already acne-prone, stress can make acne worse. You see, hormones released and produced during stress will increase further skin inflammation. And for some people, stress will vigorously make them pick at their acnes which can cause bigger problem like scars and such.
WHAT DIFFERS NORMAL ACNE & STRESS ACNE? I personally believe stress acne is redder than ordinary ones, and doesn’t necessarily have pus in it. Sometime, it formed a painful cyst too. And also what I personally experienced, stress acne will show up on areas you’ve never had acnes before. I also experienced more blackheads and whiteheads.
HOW TO MANAGE STRESS ACNE? Seriously guys, if I told you not to stress over it and stay calm, you’ll kill me, right? I tried to manage my stress first, by hanging out with friends and trying not to bring work problems home. So, find your chill first, then try to handle the stress acne. First, drink more water, less caffeinated & dairy drinks and alcohol. Then, do basics skincare like cleanse, tone and moisturize. Don’t overdo things like adding more unnecessary steps to your skincare routine. Or worse, do cleansing more than twice a day. Remember to stick to your basic routine and products.
MY BASIC SKINCARE ROUTINE DURING STRESS ACNE
FACE CLEANSER: DRUNK ELEPHANT PEKEE BAR
This stuff is MAGIC in a bar form. It’s fragrance and soap-free, doesn’t contain any essential oil and have honey in it (you know how I love honey).
TONER: SIMPLE KIND TO SKIN SOOTHING FACIAL TONER
The name said it all. It is a soothing toner, feels and looks like water. I’d recommend to stay away from exfoliating toner when your skin is stress. Choose a hydrating toner that’s light and alcohol free.
SERUM: VICHY MINERAL 89
Why 89? Because it does contain up to 89% of natural origin Hyaluronic Acid. This will protect skin from pollution, stress and fatigue. And I chose hydration serum during my stress acne period, rather than my regular Niacinamide or vitamin C serum (it’s like taking a break from the hard stuffs). I also skip moisturizer after this, just because I feel this already helped with the hydration.
SPF (AM ROUTINE): SKIN AQUA UV SUPER MOISTURE GEL SPF50+ PA++++
Long time favorite of mine. SPF in a gel form, easy to absorb, doesn’t leave any white cast and never broke me out. It’s super light in texture and good for makeup base too.
MORE TIPS:
Don’t overkill your stress acne with spot treatments, especially those with tough ingredients such as Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid. Trust me, they will look worse (looks more red & irritated).
Instead, try to hydrate your skin as much as you can. Personally, I love to spray my face with Avene Thermal Spring Water during the day.
And also, try to touch up your SPF during the day. Usually, I reapply every four hours even though I stayed indoor most of the time. Because I wear makeup, I like to use Kose Suncut Protect UV Spray SPF50+ PA++++.
Double cleanse if you have makeup on. My all time favorite is Banila Co Clean It Zero
Stay clear from anything acid and retinol while stress acne attacked. Treat them first with tender, love and care.
First of
all, congrats for 60th anniversary of Yves Rocher. Do you know that
this French beauty brand is using 100% botanicals extracts and has 1100
ingredients of natural ingredients in their portfolio? And lately, they’re
continuously developing an eco-design approach, too. So they have been
decreasing their consumption of non-raw materials and using recyclable
materials for their packaging. Beauty that does good, me likey!
Thanks to
C&F Store that sent me this naturally beautiful PR Kit to celebrate the
brand’s 60th anniversary. Inside the kit, there are some products
that I’ve been using and only one that I’ve not tried before. Let’s break them
down one by one, shall we?
CONCENTRATED SHOWER GEL – MANGO CORIANDER
CWhy
concentrated? Because you don’t need that much to actually make foams and
cleanse your body. They claim that this 100ml bottle will last us for 40
showers. It is pH balanced, preservative and paraben free. Personally, I love
the small recyclable plastic bottle, very practical for traveling purpose. This
is my second bottle already, and I love how it also made my bathroom smells
fruity like mango after I showered.
CONCENTRATED SHAMPOO
CThis
concentrated 100ml format will last for 30 shampoos. I love the fact that it is
colorant and silicone free. And the fresh scent that long lasting. But I warn
you, you might need conditioner afterward, especially if you have medium to
long hair. It might give you tangled hair.
RINSING VINEGAR
RThis shall
be use at the very last step of your shampooing business. It contains raspberry
vinegar (don’t worry it actually smells more like raspberry than ordinary
vinegar), known for its’ hair smoothing properties and reducing build-up (from
haircare or hairstyling products). I believe this is my third bottle already, I
love how it made my hair shinier and smells better longer. Yes, if there’s one
vinegar that actually can make you smell good, this is the one!
CLEANSING MICELLAR OIL
If you have no fungal-acne problem, you will love this. It contains Isopropyl Palmitate and Sunflower Seed Oil which noted as Fungal-Acne trigger on skincarisma.com. Other than that, it is actually colorant free, mineral oil free and paraben free. And it contains pure organic chamomile extract, renowned for its soothing, softening and hydrating properties. This silky but non-greasy oil will transform into a milky fluid in contact with water and help to dissolve makeup.
In Indonesia, you can get Yves Rocher’s products in C&F stores or buy online here.
After my Cauter Procedure on September 28, 2018 (read the post HERE), I thought I’d update you all about my skin condition.
Well, as you can see from the pics above, some of the bigger spots on the upper-cheek area are getting lighter (some are gone, YEAY!). Those were the areas that used to be the home of Sebaceous Hyperplasia, so no wonder the wounds were bigger than just Milia’s wounds. I was using Dermatix Ultra, recommended by the clinic’s doctor, but after a few uses (maybe because it contains silicone and vitamin C ester?) big zits were showing up on areas near the dark spots. You see, I only use Dermatix Ultra as dark spot treatment, but if I went overboard with it, it’d break me out. So I stopped using it gradually, and went for vitamin C serum and Rosehip Oil instead.
So, what did I do to treat my Cauter’s wounds?
At Home Treatment:
Double Cleansing: using Micellar Water & Facial Wash (gel texture is preferred)
Toning: using Exfoliating Toner & Hydrating Toner
Mask: using compressed sheet mask with NaCl solution (great for wounds)
Serum: using vitamin C on dark spots.
Facial Oil: using Rosehip Oil on dark spots
Moisturizer: another gel texture on my beauty repertoire.
Another collaboration collection from one of my favorite local brands. This time, they collaborated with Asmara Abigail (known as an actress) and Talitha Maranila (known for her artworks). It is a gold collection, wearable luxury that anyone can afford.
When the words Mata Hari join together, they mean ‘sun’. But, this is different. Apparently this collection was inspired by the one and only, Mata Hari (yes, that charming and mysterious exotic dancer) from the 1900’s. If you google Mata Hari, you’d be as fascinated as I am, especially if you’re into that glam-spy thing. Anyway, back to the Mata Hari Collection from Rollover Reaction. It consists of two tubes of Liquid Eye Tint, named (literally Mata and Hari). I believe this is the most extravagant but still wearable and easy to pull off collection from the ever-minimalist brand.
Mata (on the left) is glittery with a glimmering silver-gold shimmer.
Hari (on the right) is a solid gold hue with gold particles.
If you’re into gold and glitter, you’ll love this latest collection from Rollover Reaction. You can buy the collection, here.
shintarosvita 
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