Review: A Bonne Spa Yogurt Salt

The product I am reviewing today is by far one of the best body scrubs I’ve ever used and I couldn't have been more excited to share it with you guys.

I found this marvel purely by chance when I was in Watsons. I was in line to pay for my KATE eyeliner (check that review here) when I noticed the lady in front of me carrying the A Bonne Spa Yogurt Salt. I didn’t have time to get one that day but when I went back, I saw it again and just had to have it. 

Here are some of the general claims of the product:

• Extra whitening (particularly targeting underarms, bikini line, and scars)
• Makes the skin feel smoother
• Makes the skin more radiant
• Is refreshing and relaxing to use 
• Is extra moisturising 
• Deeply cleanses and conditions the skin 

Active Ingredients include:

• Sodium Chloride (salt)
• Bentonite
• Kaolin
• Dermawhite
• Sweet Almond Oil
• Allantoin
• Milk Protein
• Yogurt Protein
• Aroma Mint 

Other info:

• Non-irritating
• Dermatologist tested 
• Comes in 350g 
• Product of Thailand <3 

REVIEW

It may not look like much but the A Bonne Spa Yogurt Salt works like a miracle on the skin. After just one use, my skin felt ridiculously baby smooth. So smooth in fact that I kept gliding my hand over my skin again and again, drunk on the effect. 

Another thing I love about this product is the scent. It smells of fruity yogurt and is not at all overbearing. 

It's also surprisingly affordable and with the expensive spa-like result it gives, I'm definitely keeping it around for the long haul. 

I did not, however, use this product enough to observe any significant changes with regards to skin whitening. I may have to update you guys in a few weeks. 

How to use:

Pour the salt onto your hand and gently rub in a circular motion all over your body (must be done on wet skin). Leave it on for 3 minutes then rinse off with water. 

Note: I recommend using this once a week. 

Packaging: 

The product comes in a plastic pack with a nozzle for easy access. Considering that this is for bathing purposes, it's actually packaged conveniently. The product pours out neatly from the nozzle to your hand and the waterproof pack allows you to place it in the shower without fear of soaking the product. 

Pros

• Effectively exfoliates
• Smoothens skin to silky perfection 
• Conveniently packaged
• Basically gives spa-like results for a ridiculously affordable price

Cons

• Not made for people with severely sensitive skin

Price: P75.00

Review: Kate Spider Line .03mm Eyeliner

Japanese brand, Kanebo KATE has created one of the finest eyeliner tips with their Spider Line series. This one boasts an incredibly thin .03mm lining tip, apt for precision application.  

What’s not to love? The Spider Line is part of a collection of pen-type liquid liners that KATE carries. Personally, I find that this type of eyeliner is a more forgiving version of liquid liner. 

The firm tip allows for easier control when outlining your eyes while the precise brush of the Spider Line helps you create abstract looks with ease. 

It can also create the thinnest line to achieve a very natural look. It stays on the whole day without smudging or losing colour intensity. 

The colour I got is BK-1 which is basically their black liner. But, for those who are expecting full-on intense black, this product may fall short. It’s not as dark as other black eyeliners are but again, this product isn’t focused on colour intensity but precision.

Another thing I noticed is that this liner tends to crease when layered on to a thicker line so you’ll need to top it off with eyeshadow to avoid creasing.

Packaging:

Beautiful and elegant spider web design on the pen makes it a joy to look at. It’s an easy-to-use eyeliner which you can bring anywhere. 

Pros

• Incredibly fine tip 
• Doesn’t smudge
• Lasts all day
• Acceptable black intensity
• Travel-friendly
• Good quality packaging

Cons

• Tends to crease when doing thick lines 

Price: P600.00

6 Ways To Get Clear Skin In Time For Your Big Event

Are you trying to get skin ready for your prom, debut, or wedding? Or perhaps you just want clear skin? Well, look no further, try following these tried and tested tips that will not only help beautify your skin but improve your overall health. Good luck!

*Take note of #1 and #6! 

1. Drink water! 

• I can’t even begin to stress how important this is and how it can change your life. A lot of people take water consumption for granted. Our body is made up of 75% water and it would be a great service to ourselves to keep it that way. Doing so will not only benefit your skin but your general health. 
• Just to give you an idea, I used to have several physical problems (back pains, severe dysmenorrhea, etc.). I got checked-up and found out that my body was 6% hydrated…6% out of 75%. No wonder my body was giving up on me. I was advised to drink 15 glasses of mineral water every day. Now, I don’t have those pains anymore. 
• Aside from my health improving, I also noticed how much better my skin looks. From having to always use lotion to keep my dry skin hydrated, I now seldom use body lotions and oils because my skin naturally feels more moisturised. 
• With that said, I recommend you try and resist the urge of drinking soft drinks, juices (unless freshly squeezed), and other types of sugary drinks for the moment and drink water. Your body will thank you and your skin will be a glowing testament.  
• Drink mineral water for best results. Most bottled waters actually don’t contain the minerals our body needs. Tap water would be the best option. For those who are iffy about tap water, you can use water filters such as Brita to ensure cleanliness. 

*Brita is available in hardware stores

2. Skip fried foods and other oily dishes

• If you want your skin to look amazing, you have to cleanse internally. Keep away from junk food, fast food, and other oily meals that can cause your skin to break out. 
• Instead, you can eat more fruits, veggies, and seafood. 
• Note: Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive or unappetising. There are tons of delicious healthy recipes online (and on cooking apps) which you can follow to make sure that you like what you’re eating. 

3. Wash your face at least twice a day

• Cleansing your face keeps the skin free from excessive oils and dirt that can clog your pores and turn into dreaded acne.
• Wash your face at least twice a day to prevent accumulation of unwanted oils. Once in the morning, just after waking up, and once at night before getting to bed. 
• Note: Over washing can strip the skin of its natural oils and leave it dry. Be careful not to over cleanse. 
• Those with sensitive skin and other skin conditions are advised to consult with a dermatologist for a suitable facial cleanser. 

Favourite facial cleansers of the moment:

I. Too Cool For School’s Egg Mousse Pack

(click here to see my review on the product)

II. Kiss Skincare Mineral Aqua Mud Foam 

Quick Product Review: This product is similar to the Egg Mousse Pack except this one feels more moisturising. It's also very fun to use because of its bold colour. 

Product Description: 

“Enriched with mud and minerals from the Dead Sea. This mineral aqua mud foam detoxifies and moisturises your skin at the same time. It washes away impurities and excess oils, to leave skin refreshed, nourished and moisturised” 

Recommended for all skin types 

Can be used on wet or dry skin

(you can order this at @snowprincess_mnl’s Instagram account)

4. Use skin care (in this order)

a) Toner - Toners mainly help restore the pH level of the skin. Its active ingredients target the pores' elasticity, making it less elastic to prevent any immediate drastic size changes.

Favourite toner of the moment: 

Yadah Pure Green Toner 

Quick Product Review: Out of all the toners I’ve used, I found this to be the most effective. It feels gentle on my skin and has made it very smooth to the touch. Even without placing moisturiser after, this product can stand on its own. Plus, it's affordable price (P525.00), high-quality packaging, and effective solution make it a must-try. 

Product Description:

“Yadah Pure Green Toner is made of vegetal natural extracts. It relieves the skin from the stimulation, deeply rehydrates, gives a finer texture, and refines the pores”

“Yadah is a formulated cosmetic product designed especially for sensitive adolescent skin”

This product is available at Beauty Bar.

b) Serum - Serums are my favourite type of skin care. It’s easily absorbed and it helps tackle several skin problems. Depending on what you get, serums can smoothen, brighten, eliminate acne, whiten, even skin tone, minimise pores, etc. 

Favourite serum of the moment: 

Too Cool For School’s McGirly Perfecter Rice Wine Secret 

(click here to see my review on the product) 

c) Eye Cream  - Eye creams are incredibly important skin care products in my opinion. It doesn't matter what age you are, you always need them. It keeps the delicate skin under your eyes hydrated, preventing premature wrinkles, eyebags, and dark circles. 

I know there are several eye creams out in the market but I suggest finding one that has a gel consistency (like the one on the photo below). Gels are more effectively absorbed by the skin because it contains water. Most creams are oil-based and oil doesn't permeate as well as gels. *Excluding Virgin Coconut Oil.

Favourite eye cream of the moment: 

Methode Swiss Beauty Care Tri-Cell Age Delay Eye Cream 

Quick Product Review: This product is a miracle in a bottle. It hydrates the skin wonderfully and consistently. Compared to other eye creams I've used in the past, this is the most effective. It doesn't thin out my skin like my former eye cream does, and, the gel formulation keeps the eye area refreshed and plump. 

Available at Sasa stores (Click here to buy)

d) Moisturiser - Moisturisers aim to keep the skin hydrated for a longer duration while targeting different skin problems such as dark spots, acne, etc. Depending on what you get, moisturisers have a wide range of capabilities. Simply research what particular moisturiser will suit best with your skins needs.

Favourite moisturiser of the moment:

Snail White 

(click here to see my review on the product) 

e) Sunscreen (for AM) - Sunscreen helps protect your skin by blocking the harsh UV rays of the sun. Over exposure to UV rays can damage the skin and cause premature skin ageing and dark spots. Using sunscreen everyday will protect your skin and keep it youthful and clear.

All-time favourite sunscreen: 

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Watery Base SPF 50 

Quick Product Review: I've been using this product for years and I never grow tired of it. The watery consistency of the Biore UV Aqua Rich is easily absorbed by the skin leaving it refreshed. This product doesn't leave an oily residue like other sunscreens and it feels incredibly lightweight.

Available in leading beauty stores in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Japan

5. Use body exfoliating scrub gloves when taking a shower

• This will help get rid of dead skin cells and keep your skin smooth. 
• Use this when cleansing your body with soap or shower gel. Simply rub the soap between the gloves until it is spread all throughout before scrubbing your body. 
• Don’t forget to scrub your back to prevent back-ne.
• Note: Don’t scrub too hard because it can damage your skin. Exfoliating scrub gloves are available in most department and beauty stores. 

6. Keep a clear mind and stress-free disposition

• When you’re stressed, your body reacts to the change and it can affect the way your skin looks. Try and take some time off every day to do something you like, something that relaxes both your mind and body. It can be a hobby, going to the spa, or something as simple as meditation. An hour or so is enough to rejuvenate your state of being.

Review: Happy Skin Don't Get Mad Get Even Hydrating Liquid Foundation

With just a few months under their belt and a growing fan base, Happy Skin is making it’s way to the front line as one of the country’s leading local beauty brands. Spearheaded by beauty veterans Jacque Yuengtian-Gutierrez and Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, Happy Skin is made with the Filipina’s skin care needs in mind.

I couldn’t have been more excited to try their products out so I made it my top priority to get some over the holiday.   

Don’t Get Mad Get Even Foundation

There are three available shades for this particular foundation and I originally bought Natural Beige thinking that it was the closest to my skin colour. Unfortunately, trying it on the following morning made me realise what a big mistake that was. It was too orangey unlike when I tried it on in the store (which goes to show how significant lighting is when testing your shade) so, I went back and got Soft Beige instead. This time it was perfect. 

Soft Beige (Left), Natural Beige (Right)

There are a couple of things I’d like to point out about this product. First off, it covers redness beautifully. I tried Natural Beige on my sister and it instantly neutralised the redness of her cheeks while covering most blemishes. 

Secondly, this product has medium coverage and no matter how much you layer it on, it still feels incredibly lightweight. The foundation is also build-able, concealing skin discolourations well. 

Although, applying more layers makes this foundation look cake-y up-close. I suggest applying one layer if you'd prefer a natural look. 

Third, this product lasts for more than 8 hours without coming off so it's perfect for work, school, etc. 

I do, however, find the blend ability of this product to be average. It sets too quickly into the skin and the consistency isn't as creamy as other foundations are.

*This product would be perfect for events because it gives you long-lasting coverage and  it’s super lightweight.

Packaging:

What’s not to love? The witty name, the simple yet cute design, the high-quality material of the bottle; everything about it is just well thought out. 

The product comes in a 30ml squeeze-type bottle. Its small size and light weight make it easy for travelling. 

Pros

• Good medium, build-able coverage (covers redness well)
• Travel friendly 
• Good packaging 
• Lightweight despite the number of layers you place
• Stays on for a good 8 hours and up 

Cons

• Limited colour range  
• Average blend ability 

Price: P999.00

*Available at Beauty Bar and Plains & Prints

Haul: Too Cool For School

Another Korean beauty brand to try! 

Too Cool for School is the latest Korean beauty craze to land in Manila. Their products target teenagers to young adults with their fun packaging and high quality ingredients. What sets them apart from other Korean labels is their modest selection of beauty care as compared to the over abundance seen in most beauty stores. With this simpler selection, beauty beginners will surely have an easier time picking out products. Who could possibly resist? 

Out of the lot, I specifically chose three I considered to be staples for beauty beginners. These consist of two skin care products: the Egg Mousse Pack and the McGirly Perfecter - both use age-old natural beauty ingredients like egg and rice wine - and lastly, the After School BB Lunch Box which I used on the above photo. 

GENERAL PACKAGING

Out of the Korean brands I’ve encountered, Too Cool For School really makes it to the top of my list for beautiful packaging. The brand collaborates with different artists to create eye-catching designs that are tumblr and blogger worthy. Even the illustration on their loyalty card was collaborated by artist, Anke Weckmann. 

I won’t lie, the packaging was actually what drew me to the kiosk (located at 2nd floor SM Megamall Fashion Forum) in the first place. 

There’s one thing I would hope to suggest though…if anyone from Too Cool For School is reading this, please include English translations of the product description. As a person who looks into details, it was difficult for me to fully rely on what the in-house sales ladies were telling me about each product. I found their answers to my questions a little vague and generalised, so I had to do further research on my own. But, other than that, I think the packaging was really well thought out. Everything is made out of high quality materials and others exhibited dual functions for convenience.

PRODUCT REVIEW

I. Egg Mousse Pack  

The Egg Mousse Pack is a facial cleanser mask that uses egg yolk and albumin extract as active ingredients. Egg yolk is filled with Vitamins A, B2, and B3, Zinc and Protein. All of which aid in beautifying the skin, at the same time treats conditions such as inflammation, acne, dryness and itchiness. It also helps with slowing down skin ageing by repairing the skin’s tissues and promoting its elasticity. 

The egg albumin or egg white, on the other hand, contains Protein, Magnesium, Potassium, and Riboflavin. These mostly help with tightening, hydrating, and repairing the skin. It is also known to control oil excretion. 

What it does:

• Whitens
• Moisturises
• Smoothens
• Cleanses

This product is absolutely fun to use, with it’s thick, rich foam and delightful packaging. It’s easily becoming a favourite. Unlike a normal facial cleanser, this one needs to be left on to be absorbed by the skin before washing it off. I’ve been using it for a week now and so far it effectively cleanses and whitens, tightens my pores, and my skin feels so much smoother than normal. I also find that even without placing moisturiser after cleansing my face, my skin still feels soft and hydrated. It’s not extremely moisturising but it’s not drying as well.  

How to use:

Apply a sufficient amount all over the face and neck in a massaging motion then leave on until it is absorbed by the skin. Rinse off afterwards with lukewarm water.

Packaging:

The packaging comes in a high quality pump bottle so it’s not only hygienic but you won’t have to worry about the container leaking or breaking if you place it in your bag.

Price: P665.00

*This product contains fragrance. Those with sensitive skin are advised to consult with a dermatologist before using the product.

II. McGirly Perfecter 

The McGirly Perfecter Rice Wine Secret is part of the McGirly skin care collection. It’s actually a serum that contains the extract of yeast fermentation made from pottery brewed Makgeolli. 

*Makgeolli is an alcoholic drink from Korea made from wheat and rice. 

Rice Wines like Makgeolli are known to have several beautifying benefits with the abundant presence of nutrients, amino acids, yeast, Adenosine, Niacinamide, etc. 

What it does:

• Brightens the skin
• Fights wrinkles
• Makes skin more firm  

The McGirly Perfecter feels very light on the skin. It’s not sticky and is absorbed very quickly. I use this for day and night along with other skin care products that I’m loving at the moment. So far, my skin feels very soft and supple. 

How to use:

Just like any serum, use after cleansing the face and placing toner. Two pumps of the product are usually enough for the entire face and neck. Use patting motion to apply.

Packaging: 

I was actually more interested in the packaging when I came across this product. It comes in a ceramic like bottle with a pump for the serum and a wooden cap. Might not be too convenient to lug around but it’s pleasing to the eye. 

Price: P1,129.00

III. After School BB Lunch Box (Mini Size)  

The After School BB Cream comes in two forms, one is matte and the other, dewy. My skin type is quite dry so I chose the dewy version. They also have a regular sized bottle but I got the smaller version for trial purposes. 

What I like about the mini sized packaging is how travel friendly it is. You can use it almost anywhere and the spot precision is amazing. I first tried it on the way to the airport and I had the easiest time putting it on in the car. It’s very light weight and gives you just enough dew without making you look oily. The product is also easy to blend while giving a medium to light coverage. 

My only problem with this product is that it’s a little lighter than my skin tone. It has a more greyish undertone than a yellow one (and I’m pretty yellow). Although, I did notice that after a few minutes the colour seemed to adjust. I’m not sure if that’s how it really works or not. One thing’s for certain, I don’t recommend this product for ladies with darker skin tones. 

Note: This product will not last very long…probably a week or so depending on how much you use. You can opt to buy the regular sized bottle for P989.00.

How to use:

A little goes a long way. Simply place a tiny amount on forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin then spread evenly with a foundation brush, beauty blender, or fingers.

Pros

• Really nice dewy/ lightweight finish
• Spot precision application
• Travel friendly 
• Easy to blend
• Convenient size and weight
• Adorable packaging

Cons

• No other colour range to choose from, they only have 2 shades and both don’t even have the same formulation (matte/dewy). 

Price (mini): P219.00

Quick Makeup Routine For Ladies Who Are Always On The Go

CHOOSE YOUR LOOK

Different women have different preferences so I made a choose-your-own-adventure type of list here today on different looks you can use to emphasise the facial feature you like to project most. 

I. EYE EMPHASIS

For the woman on the go who lets her eyes do the talking, you can choose among numerous products that are quick and easy to apply, such as...

Eyelash Curler and Mascara 

The quickest way to accentuate the eyes is to play with your lashes. Simply curl them in 3 easy steps then apply your favourite mascara and you’re ready to walk out the door. 

Eyeshadow Cream 

You can find inexpensive, quality eyeshadow creams at Yves Rocher. They’re fantastically easy to use. Just a little swipe on the lid and smudge with your finger to create the fastest smokey eye ever. They come in different shades too and can work as a base for eyeshadows. 

Eyeliners 

Eyeliners can be a little tricky for some people but for those who are used to these babies, it can be all you need to make your look. 

There are many ways to use eyeliner. For example, you can use it to line the top of your lashes and you’re good to go. 

You can also use it to line your water line and that’s fine too. 

You can also smudge the liner to create an instant smokey eye.

II. LIP AND CHEEK EMPHASIS

Get the healthy flush look with just one product, either choose a lipstick or a lip and cheek tint. Both work the same. Apply the product on your lips then rub the tiniest bit on your cheeks for an instant blush. You’ll immediately look more healthy and blooming. 

III. SKIN EMPHASIS

For those who just need to even out the skin tone you can choose a tinted moisturiser, your favourite foundation, BB cream, or CC cream depending on how much coverage you want. If you live in hotter climates then top off with a teensy bit of powder to set.

IV. BROW EMPHASIS

I know a lot of women who won't leave their houses without fixing their brows and sometimes that’s actually all they need. 

If you already have a fair amount of brow hair then you can live with just using brow gel to complete your look. It tidies up your brows and fills in sparse spots. You can also choose a brow pencil, powder and wax to fill in sparse areas. 

If you just want to tidy up the brow without colour then you can get clear brow gels or clear mascaras to do the trick. 

For those with absolutely no brows you can use brow pencils or even have them tattooed, revived, and what not. Then, you won’t need to worry about fixing your brows anymore.  

You can mix and match any of the looks above to make your own unique look. These techniques are quick and easy to do so you don't have to worry about wasting time to look great!  

Have fun!

Bambi xx