Thursday, 21 October 2010

记得吃

On 20th Oct 2010, I went shopping with my friend Cindy at Plaza Singapura. After we are done with purchasing our stuff, we went down to Basement 2 to try this dessert outlet 记得吃..

There were many choices on the menu and we had a hard time choosing until we had to ask the waitress what are their signatures... We finally decided on these 2 flavors of shaved ice-cream and they are YUMMY!! Will go and try other flavors again...
Cindy's Choice - Sesame with Almonds and Dumplings and Nata de Coco
My choice - Strawberry and Mango with Passion Fruits and Dumplings

Tuesday, 19 October 2010

Taipei Training

On 10th Oct, I flew to Taipei for training and touched down at 1 plus in the afternoon... I was checked into a business Hotel at:
台北亚都丽致大饭店 (The Landis Hotel)
104台灣省台北市中山區104台北市中山区民权东路二段41号.

The room I was booked in was the Superior room.







Around about 4 pm. I took a cab down to 民权西路 MRT station to go to 淡水 for the fireworks as Oct 10 is Taiwan National Day.

I was at loitering at 淡水老街 and caught some nostalgic scenes along this street.




At around 7 pm, I made a stop and sat on the bench waiting for fireworks and caught this scene where I purposely tilt my camera.. ;)

Suddenly I heard some popping sound sky.. OMG! I was at the wrong place! Saw the fireworks down the 淡水河 and the view was blocked by some buildings. Was quite disappointing though.

After the trip, I went back to hotel to rest.
The next few days, when I had my trainings, I totally broke my diet plans and had pizzas and fried chicken for lunch... Below 2 meals are the special ones..

肉排饭
三杯鸡
At night, I went shopping at 西门町,忠孝Sogo, 士林夜市,微风广场.

Tried the famous 面线 at 西门町 but I find it too bland as I like to have more vinegar in it..

西门町
忠孝东路
During my nights shopping on weekdays, I bought the following products at Watsons and Cosmed. They cost at least 50-70% cheaper when compared to Singapore.
  • Legere BB cream & HanSkin BB Cream
  • 我的美丽日记面膜
  • Auqalabel Makeup Remover, Cleanser and Enhancer

Over the weekend on Sat, I took a train to 瑞芳 and then a bus went to 九份 for some picture taking and to try the famous 粉圆..

Finally on Sun, 17 Oct 2010, I flew back to Singapore...

Friday, 8 October 2010

Nantsuttei Ramen at Parco Millenia Walk


On 5 Oct 2010, after my eyebrow trimming session at Marina Square, I went to try a Ramen restaurant in Millenia Walk recommended by my colleague, Jane. When I reached there around 6.45pm, it was very quiet however the crowd started to come in at around 7 plus..


I have ordered Chashu Ramen.. When I was served with the Ramen, the look is not very nice due to the black oil forming on top of it. However, this is their specialty of their ramen -

Soup: It is a very rich tonkotsu soup made with pork bones adding roasted garlic oil to it. It exceptional fragrance with smell of garlic. I personally do not like the soup as it is too rich and greasy...

Noodles: This is the almost straight, thin Hakata-ramen-type noodles. The noodles were well cooked and yet very springy (very "Q"). Nice!

Cha-Shu: The round piece of pork was thickly sliced, very tender, it melts in the mouth (not much chewing is required). The meat is also flavored with soy sauce and miso. My favourite!!


Can try if you do not mind the greasiness of the soup...

Thursday, 16 September 2010

Salads Receipe

Dressings
French Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup ketchup
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt

1. In a blender or food processor, blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Store in the refrigerator



Green Salad
Simple Green Salad
Ingredients:
- Romania leaf
- Butter leaf
- Cherry Tomato
- Honey Baked Ham
- Hard-boiled Eggs
- French Dressing

I have mixed all the above in a bowl except the french dressing. I use the French dressing as dip for the vege. As for the quantity, it all depends on individual's preference, in my case, I have added more cherry tomato n ham....

Great Green Salad
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pinch white sugar
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 avocados - peeled, pitted, and cubed
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper, sugar, parsley, lemon juice and garlic
2. Add the avocado, and stir to coat with the dressing
3. Before serving, add the salad greens, and toss to coat with dressing
4. Sprinkle sliced almonds and feta cheese over the top

Cranberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3/4 cup almonds, blanched and slivered
- 1 pound spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons minced onion
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook and stir almonds in butter until lightly toasted. Remove from heat, and let cool
2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach with the toasted almonds and cranberries
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, sugar, onion, paprika, white wine vinegar, cider vinegar, and vegetable oil.
4. Toss with spinach just before serving

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Almond
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup sliced honey-roasted almonds
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar

1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries and almonds
2. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the vinegar, honey and sugar; shake well
3. Drizzle



Chicken
Chicken with Apple and Cranberries
Ingredients:
- Chicken Breast Meat
- Chopped Onions
- Diced apples
- Dried Cranberries
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 2 teaspoon Apple Cider
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)

1. Boil the chicken breast meat for about 15-20 minutes depending on the size of meat. Leave it to cool
2. Mix the chopped onions with the mayo, sour cream and apple cider together
3. Add salt and pepper according to taste into the dressing
4. Mix the chicken meat and apples to the dressing
5. Use the dried cranberries as toppings on the dish
6. Put it in the refrigerator and serve cold

Servings Ideas:
Can be serve as fillings for sandwich or wrapped inside the lettuce leaves.

Chicken with Grape
Ingredients
- 3-4 chicken breasts
- Stiff purple grapes
- Celery
- Walnut pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- salt, pepper and sugar, to taste

1. Boil chicken breasts until fully cooked, then cut up in chunks
2. Chunk up grapes, celery and walnuts
3. Mix together after chicken has cooled
4. Add salt and pepper
5. Add sour cream, mayonnaise and sugar
6. Mix until well blended, taste and add more of any ingredient as needed

Chicken with Peach
Ingredients
- 3 medium fresh peaches, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups cubed cooked chicken breast
- 1 medium cucumber, seeded and chopped
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
MINT VINAIGRETTE:
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup minced fresh mint
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 4 lettuce leaves

1. In a large bowl, combine the peaches, chicken, cucumber and onion; set aside
2. In a blender, combine the vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, mint, salt and pepper; cover and process until smooth
3. Drizzle over chicken mixture; toss to coat
4. Cover and refrigerate until chilled
5. Use a slotted spoon to serve on lettuce-lined plates

Deb's Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (cooked and cubed)
- Garlic, lemon-pepper seasoning, and paprika
- 2 heads lettuce, torn into pieces
- 4 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 8 oz. package shredded cheese (as desired)
- 1/2 jar cooked bacon bits
- Salad dressing

1. Sprinkle chicken with garlic, lemon pepper and paprika
2. In a large salad bowl combine lettuce, tomatoes and onion
3. Top with chicken, shredded cheese and bacon bits
4. Toss with desired dressing to serve

Fruited Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chicken, cooked, cubed
- 3/4 cup celery, sliced
- 3/4 cup seedless grapes, green, sliced
- 3/4 cup fresh peeled and cubed peaches
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- seasoning salt, to taste

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, celery, grapes, and peaches; toss gently
2. Mix mayonnaise and sour cream together and pour over the salad
3. Add seasoning salt and mix gently. Taste and adjust seasoning
4. Refrigerate until ready to use
5. Garnish with fresh sliced peaches, whole grapes, and parsley if desired.

Luncheon Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked cut-up chicken
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, or as desired
- 2 hard-cooked eggs, chopped

1. Toss first 5 ingredients together
2. Adding enough mayonnaise to moisten to desired consistency
3. Fold in chopped eggs
4. Serve on lettuce leaves and garnish as desired



Corn
Creamy Corn
Ingredients
- 2 cups sweet corn
- 3/4 cup chopped tomato
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup prepared Ranch salad dressing

1. In a large salad bowl, combine vegetables; stir in dressing
2. Cover and refrigerate until serving

Summer Corn
Ingredients
- 6 ears corn, husked and cleaned
- 3 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- salt and pepper to taste

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil
2. Cook corn in boiling water for 7 to 10 minutes, or until desired tenderness
3. Drain, cool, and cut kernels off the cob with a sharp knife
4. In a large bowl, toss together the corn, tomatoes, onion, basil, oil, vinegar, salt and pepper
5. Chill until serving



Fruits
Creamy Fruit Salad
Ingredients
- 1 (20 ounce) can unsweetened pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can sliced peaches, drained
- 1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 4 medium tart apples, peeled and diced
- 1 1/2 cups cold fat-free milk
- 1/3 cup orange juice concentrate
- 1 (1 ounce) package sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3/4 cup fat-free sour cream

1. In a large bowl, combine the fruit; set aside
2. In another bowl, whisk milk, orange juice concentrate and pudding mix for 2 minutes or until smooth
3. Add sour cream; mix well
4. Fold into fruit
5. Cover and refrigerate until serving



Potato
Potato Salad with Ham and Eggs
Ingredients:
- 4-5 Potato (cut into cubes)
- Chopped Onions
- Shredded Carrots
- 2 sliced Honey Baked Ham (cut into squares)
- 2 Hard-boiled Eggs (cut 1 into cubes and sliced 1)
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
- Chopped Parsleys

1. Mix the chopped onions with the mayo, sour cream together
2. Add salt and pepper according to taste into the dressing
3. Add the potato, carrots, ham and eggs (cubes) into the dressing
4. Use the sliced eggs as toppings and sprinkle some chopped parsley onto the salad.
5. Put it in the refrigerator and serve cold



Sunday, 12 September 2010

SkinCare VII - Masks

Masks
I am a mask fanatic.. At this moment, I am using the masks 3-4 times in week...
Even though I am that hardworking in using masks, my face condition is only average.. but I just love doing it...


These are the sheet masks I currently have in stock..

Top Row (from left to right)
Face Shop:
1) Co-Q10 Essential Mask - Moisturizes, Softens Skin & helps to keep skin supple
2) Hyaluronic acid Mask - Provides extreme hydration
3) Collagen Essential Mask - Promotes a firmer and more resilient skin
4) Rose & Pine Mask - Has superior moisture and relieve tension and stress.

2nd Row (from left to right)
1) Kose Infinity Vital Comfort Mask - Promotes firmness and translucency via compounded moisture
2) Biotherm Source Therapie Mask - Smooth-en and even out the tone, provides moisture
3) Kanebo Blanchir Whitening Clear Conditioner Mask - Whitening and provides moisture

3rd Row (from left to right)
All these masks are from Taiwan:
1) 天天美丽 Q10蠶絲蛋白面膜 - 改善乾燥 潤澤柔嫩
2) 天天美丽 茶樹甘草控油面膜 - 改善油光 清爽光滑
3) 天天美丽 葡萄籽綠茶面膜 - 濕潤彈力 美白肌膚
4) Heme玫瑰保濕瑩白面膜 - 具保濕效果 均勻膚色,改善肌膚黯沉
5) 天天美丽 左旋C微晶煥膚膜 (泥狀的面膜) - 能夠嫩白淡斑 改善黯沉,細緻肌膚增加明亮度,改善黯沉膚質


Saturday, 11 September 2010

SkinCare VI - SunBlocks

Sunblocks
Nowadays women are becoming more aware of the importance of sunblock and will tend to include this in their skincare regimen.

It's important to use sunblock every day even on cloudy days or even when you are not out in the open but has contact with bright lights. Don't use moisturizers with sunblock at night, the ingredients are not meant to be used 24/7 as it can aggravate skin.


Laneige - Sunblock Triple SPF40 PA++
This product is said to have 3 combined functions: blocking UV rays, relieving photo-aging, and correcting skin tone. It contains adenosine ingredient, which restores the normal function of skin, and brings back the health of inner and external skin; the fine-milled pearls deliver radiant and vivified skin tone.

The texture of this product is quite thick and hard to spread. After applying this sunblock, it leaves a white cast on the face.. not sure if this is what they meant by correcting the skin tone... Also, maybe because of the high SPF, it is quite greasy after applying on the skin.. I know that the higher the SPF the more greasy it will be... However, I cannot go for the lower SPF as I may need to be in the sun when taking photos. I am using this product on my body too so that I can finish it faster.. Won't be buying this next time..


The Face Shop The Odbo Sunblock Pact spf 50+ pa+++
This product is only available at certain Face Shop outlets in Korea

It is non-greasy, smooth, easy to apply but it does leave a white cast if I apply too much. I like the idea of the sunscreen in a foundation pact form and it comes with a mirror so you can see where you're applying.

SkinCare V - Moisturizers

Moisturizers
A good quality moisturizer protects your facial skin from environmental damage, provides nutrients for the skin and prevents loss of moisture, thereby slowing down the aging process.

Our skin condition may change from time to time therefore it is always best not to stick with just one kind of moisturizer.
For me, I always alternate them. Example, I am now using the Skin Vivo range for the cell renewal purpose so the next skin regiment I plan to start will be Kanebo Blanchir whitening series.

Etude House Aqua Sherbet Gel Cream
This gel contains Alaska Glacial Water, which delivers energy and minerals for revitalization, keeping skin glowing and hydrated all day long.

This gel is a light weight moisturizer and it gives a cooling feeling. I uses this gel after the Aqua Sherbet serum as my day time skincare regimen.

Skin Vivo reversive anti-aging care cream
Biotherm's INNOVATION – 1st dual anti-aging action DNA + GENES. It rejuvenate your skin through your genes’ vital impulse. It is also 1st reversive anti-aging care that “deactivates” aging and visibly rejuvenates the skin. It's ingredients is unique and patented association of two natured-sourced active ingredients: Pure Thermal Plankton in record dose and Reverserol SV and also the Silicium + bio-peptides to boosts anti-aging action

The texture is thick but quite easy to spread on the face. It penetrates into skin leaving my skin very smooth and supple after a few nights of applications.

Kanebo Blanchir Whitening Night Conditioner
This Blanchir series contains kakyoku berry which is penetrated into the skin to replenish moisture and makes your complexion brighter and more translucent. This cream also makes your skin smoother and silkier.

Same as the Skin Vivo cream, the texture of this product is thick but quite easy to spread on the face. Do not use too much, just a small scoop of it will do else it will make your face very sticky. This cream does quite a good job in brightening my skin tone. It also makes my skin feels smooth and supple. A note: for best result, use with the serum. This is already my 2nd tub and I will start on it after my Vivo series....

Thursday, 9 September 2010

SkinCare IV - Essence / Serum

Essence/Serum
People are often confused about the differences between a moisturizer and a face serum, and may be unsure if they should use one or both products. Due to their large molecules, moisturizers can only penetrate the first layer of the skin, allowing them to hydrate and seal in moisture. A face serum is able to penetrate into all three layers of the skin because it is made of smaller molecules. The serums ability to go deeper into the skin is what allows it to help combat many common beauty complaints.

Depending on the individual's requirement, there are many serums in the market such as anti-aging, whitening, hydrating and even skin renewal.

Presently, I am using Biotherm Skin Vivo, Etude House Aqua Sherbet and Lancome Blanc Expert Spot Eraser. There are the other 2 serums which I have stocked up during the Metro 20% sale: Kanebo Blanchir Superior Whitening Conclusion (in the center) & Biotherm Source Thérapie Superactiv.


Etude House Aqua Sherbet Serum
This is a hydrating serum which contains mineral rich glacial water from Alaska and vitamin rich grapefruit water to supply skin cooling complexion care.

I am using this serum in the day as it is very light and feels very watery after application. Not much of effect to my face after application, just that I hope it will help to hydrate my face since I am working in an air-condition place. I got this for about $20+ during my trip to KL when they are having sale.

Biotherm Skin Vivo
This SKIN VIVO series under Biotherm is their 1st anti-aging care with pure thermal plankton extract and reverserol SV to combat the visible signs of the skin aging process and improve skin’s youthful appearance.

Actually, in all my skin care products, Biotherm is the one for me.. I do not have much complaints about this brand except the White Detox series which causes breakouts. I have used the Aquasource (Green - Hydration), Age Fitness (Anti-aging) and finally this Skin Vivo.

I am using this as my night skincare regimen. This serum has a baby powder smell. It is very light and easily absorbed into my skin and has a non-greasy feel after applying. I felt that my skin is smoother and brighter.

Lancome Blanc Expert Spot Eraser
This serum contains potent whitening ingredients are directly released on problem areas for maximum skin brightening effect. The powerful whitening action breaks the skin's oxidative chain reaction to prevent the formation of unsightly dark spots. Free radicals on the skin

When I first bought this, I am using it on my cheeks areas hoping to lighten my pimples mark and uneven skin tone and it really works after a few days of application! This serum is light in texture and very effective at lightening acne scar. Now, I am into my 2nd tube and using this on pimple marks.. no more on cheeks areas as 1 tube of this cost around 180 which I find it to be very expensive.

Kanebo Blanchir Superior Whitening Conclusion
A highly penetrating cosmeceutical whitening serum that delivers more brighening ingredients to the spot zone quickly. It prevents spots for more translucency and it contains an active ingredient: Magnolignane that works directly on one of the root causes of melanin.

The texture of this serum is milky light. It is quickly absorb into the skin after a few massages and does not leave a greasy feeling. After using it for while, i can see that my skin is whiten and brighter.
A bottle of this cost $178.

Biotherm Source Thérapie Superactiv
A serum with smooth, perfecting skin results to use under any Biotherm skin care cream. It has a high concentration of Pure Thermal Plankton to stimulate skin cell renewal and Oligo-Sugars and Mother-of-Pearl to smooth skin and Ginsneg Extract to stimulate micro-circulation. Thus, the 7 benefits:

Velvety-soft touch
Smooth skin
Hydration
Regeneration
Tight pores
Matte skin
Even tone

It is a very velvety-soft gel texture with no shiny or sticky effect. It is very light and is quickly absorb into the skin. I can feel that my skin is softer, smoother and more supple after use. This is my best serum so far...

Tuesday, 7 September 2010

SkinCare III - Toner

Toner
A lot of woman tend to miss this step in their facial cleansing process nowadays. However, I feel that a good toner not only cleans off all the remaining residue from your facial cleanser but also cleans and polishes your skin and closes your pores after being opened by the hot water and cleanser. It should also prepares your skin for the next step which is moisturizing.. Come to think of it, these things mentioned above cannot really be seen through our eyes, so what should one expects of the toner to do?


Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner
This toner contains alpha and beta hydroxy formula which said to deliver visible results. First, it sweeps away dead surface skin and smoothes over rough, uneven patches. Then, it penetrates deep into pores to visibly reduce their appearance for clearer-looking skin. Skin is left soft, smooth and refreshed.

Step: Just need to pour some out onto a cotton pad and wipe over the face

I just bought this toner 3 weeks ago when I went to JL sale with a colleague. This was recommended by her as she has read some good reviews in the net. When I start to use this toner, I have a few breakouts but after using it for about 2 weeks, they subsided. This toner does help to control the oil on my T-zone area and it also tighten my face, not sure if this is a good thing?

Murad Clarifying Toner
Clarifying Toner eliminates excess oil and restores balance to acne-prone skin with a refreshing blend of natural botanicals. Problem skin is purified without drying or irritation as Algae Extract regulates oil production and Witch Hazel removes oil while tightening pores. Skin is left clean, refreshed and balanced.
There are also other ingredients like Allantoin which helps to calms and soothes redness and irritation, Antioxidant rich Grape Seed Extract and Vitamin E to protect against damaging free-radicals

Steps: Saturate a cotton pad and then lightly wipe all over your face

This is my favorite toner together with the Murad Clarifying cleanser when my skin is sensitive and having many breakouts. Very good at controlling acne...

Kanebo Blanchir Whitening Clear Conditioner
This lotion is under the whitening series of Kanebo. It contains Kakyoku which helps in whitening and reducing pigmentation. It also contains Saxifrage & Wheat Germ which provides moisture to the skin and enhances transparency

Steps: Saturate a cotton pad and then lightly pat it (not wipe) on your face

This toner is fragrance-free and also alcohol-free. It is quite mild and it does makes my skin look brighter and more translucent.
Sometimes I use it as "lotion mask" whereby I will soak a cotton mask with it and leave it on my face for 15 minutes.

Kose Sekkisei Lotion
A refreshing toner that penetrates instantly to get rid of dullness and promotes an even, refined skin tone. The herbal extracts provide brightening, anti-inflammatory, refining, and moisturizing benefits.

I always used this as a lotion mask, by soaking a cotton mask in it and leave on my face for 15-20 mins. I find that it does moisturizes quite well and brighten my skin. Also my skin feels very refreshing after use.

The only thing I do not like about this lotion is the smell. Not sure if it is due to the alcohol that it contains. Some people are concern that alcohol will dry out the skin, yet this lotion is said to work otherwise (increase moisture). For me, I do not mind products containing alcohol, as I felt that the alcohol together with the use of cotton pad will helps in lifting away some dead skin cells and any leftover dirt on the skin.

Sunday, 5 September 2010

SkinCare II - Exfoliate

Exfoliate
What is exfoliate?
In simple term means Scrub. To remove dead cells build-up on the skin. Regular use of an exfoliant can inhibit the formation of blackheads and blemishes by keeping the follicles free of blockages. It can also helps to smooth and soften the skin, brighten the complexion.

Most people will exfoliate their skin once a week but for me is 3 times a week.

Product review is from Left to Right

L'egere Purifying BB Facial Peeling Gel
This gel contains natural citrus, AHA acid and Hyaluronic Acid..It helps to lighten the skin and helps deep cleanse the pores of dirt, perspiration, greasy skin. This gel also helps to stimulates cell activity, revitalizes and prepares skin to receive nourishing moisturizers. The gel directly congeal on the skin and soften old cuticles and by just rubbing it gently cuticle layers would fall off as shredded fragments.

Steps:

  • Press 2 pumps of gel onto dry hands
  • Massage onto the skin using circular movements until you feel the shredded fragments appearing. Usually takes a minute or 2
  • Rinse off with water
I can feel and see the difference as the gel peels away the dead skin cells and grime after rinse. Also, the skin does not feel tight, the skin feels soft by maintains its watery tenderness and elasticity.
I am finishing my 2nd bottle soon as I use this gel 2 times per week.
By the way, this product cost $37.90 and is only available in John Little and I always buy it during the 20% discount.

Note: If you have watched 女人我最大, you will find this brand familiar as their BB creams are highly recommended by 凱文老師.

蜂王乳角质凝露
The ingredient in the product is Royall Jelly, Cucumber, Aloe Vera and Hyaluronic Acid.

I got this when I visited a Bee Farm in Taiwan in Dec 2009 and it cost me around $60 which I think is quite expensive.. I have not opened this tube yet but had tested the sample when I was there. It works the same way as the L'egere Gel whereby after a few rubs on my hand, there are fragments of the dead skins falling off.
Will update my thought on this product after I finishes the L'egere Gel.

L'Oreal Derma Genesis: Pore Minimising Smoother Scrub
This scrub contains BHA and Polishing Micro-Beads which is very fine and it did mentioned that this can be used daily.. But not for me as I felt that I may be over scrubbing my face to prevent the growth of new skin cells. I only use this scrub once a week.

Steps:

  • Squeeze about 20 cents size onto wet palms
  • Massage onto the skin using circular movements for a minute
  • Rinse off with water

The texture of the product is clay-like and a bit murky. When I first started using this product, I do noticed that my pores becomes smaller and the skin become brighter. However, the effect does not last. Maybe is my skin that is immune to the product as there is not much improvements after going through half a tube. Now I only left only a third and can't wait to finish it soon.

This is the cheapest in my range of exfoliants costing only $14.90 and I got it during the John Little L'oreal sale 20% + 20% off (only $9.50).

Ginvera Green Tea Whitening Marvel Gel
I was impressed by this product when I saw the advertisement on it.
They mentioned that there are 10 benefits

1. Rubs away deep layers of dead skin cells
2. Rubs away blackheads painlessly
3. Contracts pores for refined skin
4. Lightens black spots, freckles & scars
5. Removes oil seeds
6. Regulates sebum secretion to prevent pimples
7. Brightens dull complexion
8. Changes dark, rough skin to smooth skin
9. Whitens skin as it gives way to new born skin
10. Enhances quick absorption of skin care products

The steps on using this product is the same as the L'egere Gel. When I first bought it, I am using it3 times a week. After the first wash, I noticed that my blackheads has lessen and skin was brighten too. However after about 2 weeks, I started to have breakouts. So now I am using this product on my elbow joints and knees (not on my face anymore) to remove the dead skin which works very well.

This product can be easily found in many places and it cost $16.90 however I think you can get this at a cheaper price in Chinatown's Ocean or Swanston shop.

Origins Modern Friction Nature's Gentle Dermabrasion Face Scrub
The primary ingredients in this product are Rice Starch (sloughs away dead skin cells), Lemon Oil (helps illuminate the complexion), Aloe (calms and heals skin), and Peppermint (invigorating aroma). This product helps to clear away dull skin cells, skin looks perfectly polished, smooth and luminous.

Steps:

  • Use about 20 cents size onto dry palms
  • Massage onto the dry skin using circular movements
  • Wet your hands and massage again
  • Rinse off with water
This scrub really delivers what they say: "helps to clear away dull skin cells, skin looks perfectly polished, smooth and luminous". The scent is wonderful too.

The only thing which I do not like is that it comes in a big tub and requires me to dip my fingers in it, just doesn't seem hygienic to me. So the trick is to transfer it into a travel size container for weekly use.


Actually, I started using this a few years back and have stopped. The problem is not with the product itself but with ME! I loved to try new stuff and hardly stick to one for long. Recently, a friend requested me to get this from Metro 20% sale and so I got 1 for myself too. The price went up since I last bought. Now it costs $77.
I will start using this product once I finish my L'oreal Scrub.