Althea Korea launched their newest in-house brand, A'BLOOM | Review

There's no stopping Althea Korea from expanding their own skincare and makeup line, and I am nothing but excited to see more from them! They already amazed us with the first wave of their tints, eyeshadow palette, and concealers. And now, they  have just launched their very own in-house brand called A'BLOOM. 

A'Bloom is visualize as Althea's beauty playground, wherein all the fun, quirky, and fresh k-beauty products can be found. It first kicked off with the cutest  (and i bet tastiest, haha!) makeup sponges ever, a much-needed blackhead remover stick, and sweet fruit masks.

I received the items two weeks ago, and here are my thoughts about them (plus some useful info). Are you ready to 'PLAY UP'?

MERINGUE PUFFS

The Product: The first Althea-made beauty tool, that come in two sizes: Giant puff and Baby puffs. Both are made of latex-free and toxic-free materials. Can be used either damp or dry, and expands up to 1.5x in size when wet. 

GIANT PUFF | 100 php

BABY PUFFS | 140 php

The Verdict: Aesthetically speaking, these puffs are one of the most attractive makeup sponges in the market. The appearance and "feel" of the puffs tells me so much of its quality. However, the Giant puff is not that soft even when damp, unlike the Baby puffs. Both expands, or increase in size, but not too much. 

As to makeup application: I tried the Giant puff in applying BB cream and foundation and I noticed that it does absorbs a lot of the product (which is common with makeup sponges). Moreover, I find it a little challenging to blend my base using it, though it resulted to a light, dewy finish which I like. Now with the Baby puffs, I adore them so much because they are actually great for blending concealers, and for covering the hard to reach areas (eg. sides of the nose). 

I think they are not the best makeup sponges that I've tried so far. But for the price point, quality and safety, I will highly suggest that you pick these cute puffs over the regular ones.   

FRUIT MASK SHEETS

The Product: Comes in four variants, each contains natural fruit extract along with some skin-loving ingredients. These masks aim to address the common skin dilemmas: dullness, uneven skin tone, blemishes, and aging. Each mask boasts a whole bottle of essence in it (25 g), that is highly concentrated. 

The tencel sheets are eco-friendly, and are made using 100% Eucalyptus tree; No formaldehyde, no heavy metal, and no optical whiteners. Moreover, these masks has a slightly acidic pH balance, which aim to rebalance the pH level of the skin after washing. 

20 php. Contains lemon, lime and green tea extracts

20 php | contains watermelon and lavender extract

20 php | contains peach and tea tree extracts

20 php | contains avocado and hibiscus extracts

The Verdict: I love sheet masks and I've tried a lot of different brands for the past years. But these fruit masks are my new favorites! They are very affordable to begin with, but most importantly, they actually work on my skin. Too bad that they are currently sold out on Althea's website, because I've consumed all four  (plus the second batch that I ordered) already. 

The good stuff that I like about these masks are: (1) the sheet is so thin, and has several cuts on it; making it very easy for me to adjust/lay on my face. (2) the "juice" or essence is overflowing; meaning I get so much product in just one sheet mask, that I can even cover my neck! (3) each has its own main ingredient that literally addresses my skin's needs at a particular moment. Overall, they are super worth it, and one of the cutest masks ever!

BHA BLACKHEAD BLASTER

200 php | contains white willow, charcoal, apricot seeds, and tea tree leaf extracts

The Product: A natural BHA stick that promises no pain removal of blackheads and whiteheads. It deeply cleanses and and prevents future formation of comedones. 

The Verdict: It is actually my first time to try this kind of product, but i'm expecting a lot since I would want to replace my painful nose strips. I used it only on my nose and noticed improvements after a couple of days. Yup, the result is not instant tho, but it does help in gently removing blackheads. Just don't expect your pores to be squeaky clean on the first wash. 

I like that it contains BHA, since I'm a fan of this amazing ingredient for gentle exfoliation. Plus, it also contains some pore-friendly ingredients too. 

I hope you could visit the following links so you can get to know these products better. Althea Korea is very responsible in keeping their "angels" informed about their products. So go check them out!

Meringue puffs: 

https://ph.althea.kr/giant-meringue-puff-1p

https://ph.althea.kr/baby-meringue-puff-3p

Fruit Masks:

https://ph.althea.kr/moisturizing-watermelon-mask-10-sheets

https://ph.althea.kr/brightening-lemon-lime-mask-10-sheets

https://ph.althea.kr/anti-blemish-peach-mask-10-sheets

https://ph.althea.kr/nourishing-avocado-mask-10-sheets

Blackhead Blaster Stick:

https://ph.althea.kr/bha-blackhead-blaster

Alright! So that's all for now, we just have to wait for more products to come out, and I'm sure they'll be cute and fun to use as well :) 

Beauty is fun, make sure to enjoy it!

BRA TALK: Comfort and Confidence | Avon Fashions NEW Body Illusion 2019 Review

Okay, these new products shook me. I mean, are they for REAL??!

Well for someone who is trying to perform several roles in her late twenties; from being a blogger and content creative, to an online girl boss with a 9-5 job in a casino, it is surely one hell of a ride every single day---and I should always keep up! Like nothing can stop me from accomplishing my duties, as well as pursuing my passion, not unless something keeps on bothering me. And most of the time, *whispers* "It's what I wear inside". 

Alright, I'm talking about undergarments here, ladies! Yup, our ever-dependable bras and panties of course! And who among you will agree with me that these two can definitely make or break our day too? Come on, no matter how beautiful your blouse or dress is, if your bra gives you a very uneasy feeling, you can't simply be confident while wearing it. I know the feeling, because I often experience the "struggle".

#StruggleIsRealwithmyUndies

But who would have thought that such day would come, and I'll be so lucky enough to try these new products from AVON Philippines! Do you think I already found my soul mates?

AVON Fashions recently launched their ALL NEW BRAS and PANTIES under their Body Illusion innerwear line, which promise to give Filipina women seamless comfort and flexibility. The Body Illusion underwear, made with AVON's very own Invisilite material,  comes in two pairs: CHARLENE (underwire seamless bra and laser-cut panty) and SONIA (non-wire seamless pull-on bra and laser-cut panty). You can watch the short video below:

Though what's important here is to know if my own pair of Body Illusion underwear delivered what was expected. 

Oh my, I still want to delay this, but...YES, THEY DID! 

Now I'll try to give you a detailed review of CHARLENE. So what I got was a 34B underwire bra and a medium size hipster panty, both in Tuscany color. For the first impression (when I was not yet wearing them), I must say that:

1. Both appeared to be ordinary for me, in terms of design / style, and nothing really special. But I do appreciate the simplicity and functionality of the overall appearance. The thickness of the cups' foam is just right, and the width of the straps are just perfect for sleeveless tops. And for the panty, I pretty much like the cut. 

2. As I hold them, I was very impressed with the actual weight and 'feel' of both innerwear. They are super light (as in crazy light, and I can't believe it's actually possible for a bra with underwire), and feels very, very smooth on the skin (like where in the world did they got those kind of materials?)

3. Looking closely, I can say that both products are of high-quality. There are no seams on the fabric, yet the parts where the edges meet were sealed nicely. Plus, I was able to stretch both garments really hard, but they still manage to go back to their original form.


Here's a closer look:

Charlene Seamless Hipster Panty (Medium)

Can stretch up to twice it's original size

Laser-cut edges

Seamless, thus won't show through tight clothing

Charlene Seamless Underwire Bra (34B)

Eyeglass silhouette with ultra-soft foam cups

Underwires are not stiff nor heavy

Laser-cut edges

Foams are not too thick

Straps are soft and not too wide

The bra costs 899PHP, while the panty is sold at 299PHP. Quite pricey for me, but with the above impressions, I must say that I'm already half convinced to purchase another set. 

Of course, I also tried wearing both innerwear. Worn the Charlene bra and panty for three (3) alternate days, now here are my full thoughts about them:

1. They are my perfect fit. It has been a decade of struggle for me to find a comfortable cut for my undies, but I always end up with the "almost perfect" (either the bra cups are too big, or the straps are a few centimeters short). Now, I just look into the mirror with full pleasure. I just feel good in them. 

2. They are the most comfortable pair. When I slip on my corporate uniform on the first day, it was an odd yet great feeling to NOT really notice my undies! I can't see traces of them, and can't actually feel them underneath! No more pulling up and down, keeping my bra and panty in place---I was able to move all day in peace.

3. They never lose their form and are easy to maintain. I washed them for three times, and noticed that they are easy to clean and dries up pretty fast. Both retained their shapes perfectly even after washing. 

The perfect partner of a #girlboss

When it feels so light as air...

Indeed, I was even more confident to move around, accomplish tasks and go beyond my goals set for each day. All thanks to my new partners-in-crime! I will definitely switch to these bras and panties that can support my daily activities and will never get in the way. By the way, Body Illusion bras and panties are available in wide range of sizes, so you don't have to own the society's standard body size just to enjoy comfort.


#ForAllBodyShapesandSizes

Truly, every good thing starts from the inside. And with a pair of comfortable underwear, you can do anything and achieve everything as a WOMAN. Now that is FREEDOM.

Cheers to the unstoppable women!

Bye-Bye Double Cleansing! Althea Pore Purifying Serum Cleanser | REVIEW

Alright, so Althea released another skincare product. And this time, it's another multi-function item! (Remember their Petal Velvet Sunaway? It's not just an ordinary sunscreen, but can also control sebum and serve as a good makeup base) They are slowly building their own skincare line! 

Actually, I have already tried the Pore Purifying Serum Cleanser, and if I am to describe the experience, it will simply be: "UNEXPECTEDLY AWESOME".

So in this blog post, I'll provide the detailed review of the product (though you already have a hint that I love it, hehe). And if you want to see it's actual effect on my skin, watch the video that I uploaded on my YouTube channel below:

Now let's jump to my review:

THE PRODUCT

The Pore Purifying Serum Cleanser comes in a 150 ml, slightly tinted plastic bottle. And since the container is somehow transparent, you can easily see the consistency of the liquid inside. When dispensed, the liquid's texture is similar to a cleansing oil (though it's less oily), and smells like mint (though not that strong). 

As I applied the liquid on my damp face, I noticed that it do not form lather (at all). It's like massaging your face with light serum, and honestly, it did not convinced me enough that I'm actually cleansing my face. However, I immediately noticed that it melts my makeup really quick. And as I rinsed my face, my skin felt so tight, clear and clean.

The complete ingredients list:

Water, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Cyclomethicone, Isononyl Isononanoate, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Hydroxyacetophenone, Disodium Edta, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Citrate, Butylene Glycol, Fragrance

The key ingredients are:

Mint leaf extract

Jojoba seed oil

Tea tree leaf extract

According to Althea Korea's website, the product incorporates the "Dual Moisture System". It is a combination of water and oil, in overlapping layers, that gently yet effectively remove makeup and dirt residue. Also, it is suitable for ALL skin types, especially those with sensitive skin, since it can create a protective moisture barrier on the skin and has a pH level of 5.5 ~ 6.5. 

THE VERDICT

Okay, this is another genius product from Althea. I was not head-over-heels during the first use, but after the second, third, and so on, I never washed my face with any cleanser anymore. Here are the reasons why:

• It cleanses deep down my pores, for real. My T-zone area never felt so clean (with normal cleansing), unless I exfoliate (which normally dries out the skin). 

• It serves as a double-cleansing product (I can now skip my cleansing oil and facial wash). Perfect whenever I'm in a hurry, or just tired of my complex skincare routine.

• It retains moisture excellently. No dry feeling after washing, plus, it always makes my skin look so plump and hydrated.

• Its price is not that economical, yet can be justified by its quality. Well a little amount can cleanse the entire face already, so I guess a bottle can go for a month or two (which is pretty long).

Well it is so gentle, yet act so strong...am so confused! All I can say is that you have to TRY this product, because it works like magic! You may check out Althea's website: https://ph.althea.kr/pore-purifying-serum-cleanser for more details.

Hope you enjoyed this review! Let me know your thoughts, just leave a comment below! Thank you for dropping by, will see you again :)

Beauty is power; smile is its sword.

Unboxing NEW Thai Beauty products from Wises Thailand | REVIEW

Another set of Thailand beauty products were sent to me last year for review. I am excited to try them, since I haven't heard of the brand before. Now I'm ready to share my thoughts, hoping that this would be one of the few detailed reviews of Wises Thailand. 

To be honest, I can't give any background for this brand. I already tried searching on the web and Facebook. All that I know is that they were manufactured in Thailand, and are distributed here in the Philippines by Ms. Rina Bartolome. Okay, so let's go jump to my review then! 

Wises Nano Collagen Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++

THE PRODUCT: It is a 12g tinted sunscreen, which I find similar with Jellys Thailand Pureface sunscreen. However, this one is perfumed, and a bit thicker in consistency. It gives a light to medium coverage already, so you can definitely wear it alone as base. When spread evenly on the face, it gives a matte finish. 

THE VERDICT: Well the product is okay for me, though I'm really not comfortable with its scent. I just love the fact that it can perform as your BB cream or foundation, which can save you a lot of time whenever you are doing your makeup. Moreover, its container is super fancy (which is common with Thailand products), but I think that's unnecessary. 

Wise Diamond Snail Sleeping Mask 

THE PRODUCT: It is a 7g sleeping mask, which contains snail slime and diamond extract. The cream is white in color, super slimy, and strongly perfumed. But when you spread it on your face, it doesn't feel tacky or sticky at all. 

THE VERDICT: I tried using it once, and I noticed that my face was quite glowing the next morning. But then again, I'm not a fan of perfumed skincare products. Though I did appreciate that the packaging physically reflects the actual amount of the product. 

Wise Placenta Boosting Serum

THE PRODUCT: It is a 12ml serum which contains pure placenta and more than 30 species of plankton. The liquid has a bluish color and a very faint fresh scent. When applied on the skin, I noticed that it's quite cool and was easily absorbed. 

THE VERDICT: I like this one because it is instantly absorbed by the skin, no strong scent, and is not sticky. I'm surprised that it made by skin look hydrated and supple. Though I hope they will (the manufacturer) increase its net volume, so the product won't just last for a few weeks.

Wises Pink Gold Collagen Premium Mask

THE PRODUCT: It is a 15g pink-gold, peel-off mask, that has a strong alcohol + perfume scent. The mask is very sticky, but sets easily on the skin. 

THE VERDICT: I love its effect on the skin in general. I noticed a clear and glowing skin right after my first use. However, the scent is a total no-no for me. Plus, it is quite difficult to apply on the skin (so be careful, especially on the hairy areas).

Wises DD Water Drop (Mini)

THE PRODUCT: It is a daily defense (or Dynamic Do All) cream, that contains sun protection and can instantly brighten or lighten your skin tone. It is also tinted, turns into semi-liquid when applied on the skin, and finally sets as a matte base. 

THE VERDICT: It is lightly perfumed (and I can live with that), sets nicely on the skin, and gives that bright and healthy color (which I love). It can be a perfect base for makeup too, since it's moisturizing and has a coverage at the same time.

Wises Blue Diamond Multi-Cleansing Gel

THE PRODUCT: It is a 60ml cleansing gel, that is bluish in color and is more watery in consistency than gel-like. It smells like the boosting serum (fresh), and forms a nice lather when mixed with water (though not so foamy). 

THE VERDICT: The product is okay, because it cleanse my skin pretty well (for the first use). I just don't like it being too "runny", that I had a hard time dispensing from the tube. But overall, I find it non-drying at all; my skin was supple after washing. 

Wise Lucky Lips (in #06)

THE PRODUCT: It is a matte, waterproof and smudgeproof liquid lip color. The texture is creamy upon application, that turns into super matte finish. The product smells like dessert, with a little hint of chemical scent (which fades eventually). 

THE VERDICT: If you are a fan of Maybelline Superstay Matte lippies, then this can be a good substitute. It is indeed smudge and waterproof, and can stay from day to night. The only downside is that it kinda look dry on the lips. Though the shade is lovely. 

___________________

Alright! Thank you for reading until the end :) Again, the products aren't so perfect, yet they have some good stuff as well, which may suit your needs (*wink*). 

If you are interested to try these Thai products, you may visit Ms. Rina's Facebook page: Rina Cassandra Innovative Solutions, and send her a message (She replies really quick!). But if you want to see actual customer reviews, you can check out Wises Philippines FB page. 

I'll see you again on my next post! 


Always find the beauty in everything...

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