tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81565549762228000592024-03-14T07:37:56.190+08:00Pas-sosyalAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.comBlogger132125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-67841605173616545192015-05-26T21:40:00.003+08:002015-05-26T21:40:45.416+08:00Review: Laneige Balancing Emulsion (Sensitive)Branding is not everything. This is my rule for all the things I buy.<div>
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But there are rare exceptions when I do feel adventurous and splurge on products that will cost me more than a thousand pesos. Weeks ago, I ran out of emulsion and since I was in a hurry to buy ANYTHING, I ended up going to a Laneige shop in SM Megamall. Since I have had weirder skin since pregnancy (which remained so after a few months after loss), I thought I should buy the "Sensitive" variant of Laneige's Balancing Emulsion.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K4P5lSYEd3Q/VWRx1QrOE8I/AAAAAAAAAoc/o-8QNZwWgdo/s1600/Balancing%2BEmulsion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K4P5lSYEd3Q/VWRx1QrOE8I/AAAAAAAAAoc/o-8QNZwWgdo/s320/Balancing%2BEmulsion.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a><b>Pros:</b></div>
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- Easy to apply. As expected of all emulsions.</div>
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- Unscented. If I recall correctly the other variants are scented.</div>
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<b>Cons:</b></div>
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- Expensive at 1500 pesos for a 120 mL bottle</div>
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- Ingredients are not that spectacular, except for the Beta Glucan, which is an anti-oxidant and anti-irritant. My face is still splotched with red though, and I'm not sure if the emulsion did reduce the redness or not. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4MKE0oEVlnU/VWR0rTSxGcI/AAAAAAAAAoo/L82ujcAsmFI/s1600/Ingredients_BE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4MKE0oEVlnU/VWR0rTSxGcI/AAAAAAAAAoo/L82ujcAsmFI/s320/Ingredients_BE.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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- Finish is shiny! I was unable to use this as a day time moisturizer, so I used it as a night moisturizer...</div>
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- But it is not moisturizing enough for night use. I had to apply twice for my skin to feel plump when I wake up. In short, it does not feel like an emulsion, but it does not function as a heavy duty moisturizer either.</div>
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Here's the finish, by the way (the forehead is sooo shiny). It even highlighted my huge pores, too.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1JpBbow-NZE/VWR24VbAEeI/AAAAAAAAAo0/vRL6MSN0UHI/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1JpBbow-NZE/VWR24VbAEeI/AAAAAAAAAo0/vRL6MSN0UHI/s320/2.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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So, will I buy this again? Probably not. I've seen cheaper ones which perform better. Pretty mediocre for the price. </div>
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<b>Rating: 2/5</b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-59262766147147875402015-05-04T08:41:00.000+08:002015-05-04T08:41:11.085+08:00Micromini Reviews (and I am back)Hi everyone. I'm here again posting a bunch of teeny tiny reviews of some products I have used since my last review, because I feel bad for not making use of my experience to help other skin care addicts.<br />
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And yes, even if I got too busy, I was able to continue taking care of my skin!<br />
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Here are the various items I used from October 2014 til today:<br />
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<b>Nature Republic Bulgarian Rose Emulsion</b> - If only my nose was not that sensitive to fragrances, this emulsion will be a holy grail day moisturizer. It is cheap, moisturizing, and it works well under the hot and humid Manila weather. If you have a very tolerant sense of smell, I highly recommend this emulsion.<br />
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<b>Olay Regenerist Night Resurfacing Essence</b> - a very easy to find AHA exfoliator in the Philippines, which works as intended. It made my skin plump, soft and smooth, although it did not make my pores look refined. It looks expensive at a price tag of more than 1000 pesos, but this 50 mL bottle will last a while. The only problem with this AHA is it warrants a bigger obsession for sunscreen as it is quite strong (glycolic acid), and it made my face very irritable against the sun. I had to abide by sunscreen reapplication, or else.<br />
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<b>The Face Shop Herb Day Cleansing Cream (Green Tea)</b> - I used to LOVE this line, now I totally hate it. Although I used the Mixed Fruit variant before, I noticed that the main ingredients between my Green Tea and Mixed Fruit aren't the same. Reformulation? Highly probable, which is why I will not repurchase.<br />
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<b>Etude House Real Art Cleansing Oil (Sensitive)</b> - typical cleansing oil with a very runny texture and strong but tolerable scent. Cleans well but it left my skin feeling dry immediately after use.<br />
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<b>Innisfree Apple Juicy Cleansing Oil</b> - the apple aroma was weird and seemed very synthetic, but the texture is glorious! Ah, but it did not clean my face properly and was too gentle, it left my sebaceous filament sticking out and begging for extraction (which I still left alone). <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aN-jGUX76Xg/VUa6WZXiCDI/AAAAAAAAAoI/-5pJAnR5NQQ/s1600/Missha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aN-jGUX76Xg/VUa6WZXiCDI/AAAAAAAAAoI/-5pJAnR5NQQ/s1600/Missha.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<b>Missha All-Around Safe Block Waterproof Sun -</b> it may not have titanium dioxide, but I do not recommend this sunscreen. Unless you're a fan of very thick creams and all lined up for a geisha makeover.<br />
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Aaaand that takes care of the 8 months worth of skincare hits and misses.<br />
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I realized I CAN update this blog, although not as vigorously as I did prior to my freelancing work. So I am back and will check in from time to time, especially in cases like this - I just couldn't bear it!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-31930371129892830282015-02-17T19:32:00.000+08:002015-02-17T19:32:03.632+08:00I was lost, and still amHello! It has been a while and I'm sure some of you are wondering where I have been. A LOT of things had happened since I last wrote anything here. Some may be rearing to see a random review from me, but let me preempt you: I want to, but I cannot.<br />
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During the later half of 2014, I had a spike of demand for my work-at-home engineering gig. It was exhausting and fulfilling, but it was taking a lot of time. I am still engaged with this work, happily at that. And while it has stopped my blogging, it is expanding my knowledge of my craft and it is paying for the bills. Yay!<br />
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But while my career is gaining some good ground, my personal life, unfortunately, is not. I got pregnant last November but I miscarried a month ago. It was my first pregnancy too, after a year of trying. My husband and I were traumatized, to say the least. I am afraid of getting pregnant again, because the gory imagery that night of my baby's unfortunate demise is still with us. It would have been slightly easy to accept if we had a chromosomal problem during that pregnancy, but we lost the battle due to a ruptured placenta. The fact that such incidence is quite unusual does not help, too.<br />
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This is where I will take a leave from Pas Sosyal.<br />
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I will probably still update this blog from time to time to reply to comments and mail, but currently my work is owning my time right now. I've overloaded myself with projects so I won't even have time to cry too much, plus this working-horse-mode gives me some motivation to cope up with our loss.<br />
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In case you've seen all this blog has to offer, you can find a variety of good blogs being recommended within reddit. /r/AsianBeauty and /r/SkincareAddiction are two skincare related subreddits packed with tons of information - from linked blogs, to helpful FAQs, databases (check our /r/AsianBeauty's spreadsheet on cleanser pH!), progress pics and many more. The people there are quite giddy about it, too, so I highly recommend visiting those.<br />
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Anyway, thank you guys for the follow, link, reads, comments, and mail. Blogging about girly stuff was fun - but I think my experiences, both from highs and lows, shifted my priorities that I now want to just focus on my husband (but not kids - I'm not going to try to conceive ever), career, and my personal healing.<br />
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See you wherever, and don't forget your sunscreen!<br />
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xo,<br />
VanessaAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-75934377372295865552014-11-02T17:24:00.002+08:002014-11-02T17:24:22.742+08:00Korean emulsions: My new moisturizer choiceRemember when I <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/10/progress-pics-4-months.html">raved about my improved skin</a></u> and attributed it to switching to a different moisturizer type? One of the new elements I've added to my regime was switching from a normal, heavy moisturizer to an emulsion for my morning skin care routine. So what is an emulsion, and how is it used?<br />
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The Korean skin care involves lots of product layering, with some routines taking up to 9 steps! This is why for the uninitiated, walking into a Korean beauty shop could be overwhelming when all you wanted was so simple, like a new moisturizer or a new facial wash.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>This meme sums up how I feel about the Asian skin care regimen.</b></td></tr>
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According to Skin and Tonic's Kerry, whose <u><a href="http://www.skinandtonics.com/asian-skin-care-guide/">introduction to the Asian way of skin care</a></u> is quite extensive, with the basic steps of the routine are as follows:<br />
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1. Makeup remover (part 1 of 2 of the double cleansing routine)<br />
2. Foaming wash (part 2 of 2 of the double cleansing routine)<br />
3. Toner (more like skin softener, quite different from the Pinay's Eskinol)<br />
4. Optional eye cream / sheet mask<br />
5. Essence / serum / ampoule (for skin-specific requirements such as Vitamin C serums)<br />
<b>6. EMULSION</b> (for moisturization)<br />
7. Spot treatment (for pimples, PIH or wrinkles)<br />
8. Cream<br />
9. Sleeping Pack (night) or sunscreen (morning)<br />
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See? Add the fact that you have to put "wait times" after cleansing, essences, spot treatments and sunscreen and you might end up with a 2 hour long routine. Which is why I use a shortened version of it. Anyway, emulsions are moisturizers too, albeit a bit lighter and not quite as moisturizing as the normal Western creams such as Cetaphil's Lotion or Nivea Cream.<br />
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With the kind of climate that we have in the Philippines, <b>emulsions are a great way to moisturize</b> without making your skin feel heavy and slick, especially for oily/combination skin people like us. So if you're hesitant to wear a moisturizer because the hot Manila sun might melt it off or your skin is already so oily, try an emulsion first, and if it does not make its mark, then a real cream might be in order.<br />
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I've ratted on, so the review for my current emulsion will have to follow. Stay tuned!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-37693917929770738232014-10-23T11:51:00.000+08:002014-10-23T11:51:00.525+08:00Korea Budget Trip: Budget for everything else, but not for MyeongdongLast week, we visited South Korea for four days and three nights. As we wanted it to be a budget-friendly travel, we used the extensive public transportation Seoul had to offer and stayed in a motel. Of course, I had a side budget for possible hauls - in case I saw products that would be very hard to ship to the Philippines. Thanks, ERAP. /s<div>
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Note: I am the type of traveller who does not take too much pictures. I don't know but I feel taking pictures spoil the "moment". All I have are potato quality ones, too.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lAAfMFOwz_8/VEcakrT7OzI/AAAAAAAAAmU/BOwjCE-nYYA/s1600/Secret%2BGarden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lAAfMFOwz_8/VEcakrT7OzI/AAAAAAAAAmU/BOwjCE-nYYA/s1600/Secret%2BGarden.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Roof of a rather plain structure in Changdeokgung Palace's<br />Secret Garden (to the disappointment of my companion<br />is not the Korea-novela)</b></td></tr>
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We got around the city using the subway and integrated bus systems. The whole let's-use-the-public-transport thing is COOL as I believe the city is best get to known this way. However, I had elderly with me (they knew stairs would be frequent), and so it was difficult for them, plus they had the attention span of a 5-year old so it was crazy to keep them from getting bored during commutes.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NhksBcBys0w/VEcdD9ZCEUI/AAAAAAAAAmo/Axw1gW9ZTf0/s1600/i%2Bbelong%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NhksBcBys0w/VEcdD9ZCEUI/AAAAAAAAAmo/Axw1gW9ZTf0/s1600/i%2Bbelong%2B2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>I belong: Countless times during that brief tour, I've been spoken to <br />in Korean, for obvious reasons as seen in this selka <br />(what they call selfies there)</b></td></tr>
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We visited Changdeokgung Palace, sat around Yeouido Park eating the best friend chicken I've ever tasted (no exaggeration there), got into a Han River cruise, explored Nami Island, took photographs of giggling senior citizen at the Trick Eye Museum, had coffee in a cat cafe (someone please bring this concept here in the Philippines), visited a Korean family and had a grand lunch, and of course went shopping in Namdaemun Market (for the folks) and Myeongdong (for me, haha).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d2gNHRkyFiM/VEccnmQYLuI/AAAAAAAAAmg/BsI2mOdv79k/s1600/no%2Bchicken%2Byeouido.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d2gNHRkyFiM/VEccnmQYLuI/AAAAAAAAAmg/BsI2mOdv79k/s1600/no%2Bchicken%2Byeouido.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>"Why can't we have this in the Philippines?", I asked myself<br />as I recalled the savory chicken we just ate.</b></td></tr>
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The weather was very pleasant at 10-20 degrees Celcius for me and my husband, whereas my mom and mother in law were trying desperately to hide their shivering during the first night - they did not want to wear proper clothing because they did not want to carry heavy jackets. My skin though felt quite happy with the autumn season - emollient sunscreen not melting off the face, sweat and heat not aggravating my pores. Skin heaven!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpB7tXg-aF0/VEcfo3OXomI/AAAAAAAAAm0/Rjd4sbgkzYA/s1600/seoul%2Bskyline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpB7tXg-aF0/VEcfo3OXomI/AAAAAAAAAm0/Rjd4sbgkzYA/s1600/seoul%2Bskyline.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>"Why can't we have nice things in our country?", I asked<br />myself as I still thought about the chicken.</b></td></tr>
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Apart from the nice weather, I noticed there was significantly less pollution in Seoul as compared to what we've been used to here in Metro Manila. There is also less private vehicles, but more taxis instead bring the traffic to be as long as the stop light says red. People just really use public transport. I even saw really glamorous ladies ride the subway. As an engineer, the city's transport system itself is a tourist's marvel for me. Plus, the underground stations had a Missha or Nature Republic in them somewhere, so yeah.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Yellow trees are marvelous too. And so are the<br />ahjummas with their good skin.</b></td></tr>
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My wallet had been suffering due to a 30% sale I took advantage of in one of the underground Missha's (they're very cheap yo, like 300 pesos cheap), when on Day 3 we visited Myeongdong. OH MY GLOB. All of the Korean skincare I could ever want is in that locale, and it took a lot of willpower to not overspend on products I will probably use months from now (just kidding, I'll be back in April...prepared). Did I mention they had cat cafes and dog cafes? </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMwAbHL29oY/VEckKUCcfuI/AAAAAAAAAnM/8S3GYqmUakM/s1600/sleepy%2Bcat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMwAbHL29oY/VEckKUCcfuI/AAAAAAAAAnM/8S3GYqmUakM/s1600/sleepy%2Bcat.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Yes, I'm jealous. The cat may sleep during its shift!<br />And they're not to be disturbed.</b></td></tr>
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Finally, during our last day, we visited a Korean family who felt like our family's "Korean version" and had the grandest lunch ever. The tables were crowded with plates, and I enjoyed it so much! Later that day, we also had enough time to check the Duty Free Shop in Incheon International Airport. A secret from me to you: some brands like Shiseido / La Mer are miles cheaper compared to their prices here. For example a Shiseido eyelash curler is priced around 800 pesos in the airport's DFS, which when purchased here would cost one 500 pesos more.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E60rSqcxYZc/VEcplw9RQJI/AAAAAAAAAnc/i-qQbya8sqk/s1600/angry%2Bcat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E60rSqcxYZc/VEcplw9RQJI/AAAAAAAAAnc/i-qQbya8sqk/s1600/angry%2Bcat.jpg" height="320" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>"Did you make that mess? You human tourists!"</b></td></tr>
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I really enjoyed the brief stay in Korea - totally worth the time (I missed my work, huhu) and money. Hopefully, my school schedule would make it possible for me to go back in April. I can't wait!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-82423204559401818642014-10-21T23:24:00.002+08:002014-10-21T23:32:02.099+08:00Review: Nature Republic California Aloe Sun Block SPF 50 PA+++Back again from a very long slumber from blogging, and with me, I bring yet another sun screen review born from haphazard purchases and what-not. So while I have the time to write this, here's a quick review on Nature Republic's California Aloe Sun Block.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lvMK18IAqsQ/VEZwaUNc4vI/AAAAAAAAAl4/ey3B684Ltl0/s1600/NR_California%2BAloe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lvMK18IAqsQ/VEZwaUNc4vI/AAAAAAAAAl4/ey3B684Ltl0/s1600/NR_California%2BAloe.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Not to be confused with the Sun Milk version. That one's<br />for next time, as soon as my sunscreen stock runs out.</b></td></tr>
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<b>Availability and Price:</b> I bought it at a relatively cheap value of 445 php for 50 mL. I've noticed most moisturizing sun blocks fall at the 400 to 500 php price range, while the thinner ones are priced higher (supply and demand, or just production issues?). This sunscreen is readily available to all Nature Republic stores in the Philippines, so no problems for purchasing within the metro.<br />
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<b>Packaging:</b> I usually am not a sucker for Korean skincare packaging as I think they're overly girly if not trying too hard to look "natural". The tangerine hues on this product, however, caught my eyes hence I bought this product on a whim! Plus, the box is properly labelled with English instructions and ingredient list. The tube dispenses product easily but as expected like its similarly packaged peers, squeezing out the product can be daunting once the contents are about to run out .<br />
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<b>Texture and Scent: </b>Aloe! Scent is probably the best thing I like about this product as it smells fresh, yet it is not overwhelming. If you're the type who's irked by fragrances (like me, though this one is an exception, obviously), worry not as the smell goes away quickly. As for the texture, it has the a thick lotion-y consistency, which is again usual of very emollient sunscreens. It's lighter as compared to its other moisturizing kin, though.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kkV2-m4sp5Y/VEZyHRf_3tI/AAAAAAAAAmE/VeWlYQZ_ZVs/s1600/NR_California%2BAloe_ing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kkV2-m4sp5Y/VEZyHRf_3tI/AAAAAAAAAmE/VeWlYQZ_ZVs/s1600/NR_California%2BAloe_ing.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b> Nature Republic's California Aloe Sun Block is a combination-type sunscreen, containing both physical (Titanium Dioxide), and chemical filters (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate / Octinoxate, 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor / Parsol 5000 , and Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane / Avobenzone). I've ranted about the Avobenzone <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-neutrogena-ultra-sheer-dry-touch.html">several</a></u> <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/08/review-face-shop-super-perfect-sun.html#.VEZ0MyLLdtx">times</a></u> before here in my blog, and I do not like this filter as it is potentially photounstable, especially when it works with Octinoxate.<br />
<br />
<b>Finish:</b> Shiny, shimmery, very emollient. It may leave behind a minimal white cast, but it instead dumps a lot of moisturizing agents on your skin. This can be good for very dry skinned individuals, but for combination to oily peeps like me, it may be too much.<br />
<br />
<b>Rating:</b><br />
Pros:<br />
- cheap<br />
- awesome aloe fragrance<br />
- moisturizing<br />
<br />
Cons:<br />
- has Octinoxate + Avobenzone as its filters<br />
- slight white cast<br />
- may be too emollient for combination/oily skinned users<br />
- dat shine!<br />
<br />
Value for money: 3/5<br />
Ingredients: 2/5<br />
Performance: 2/5<br />
<b>Overall: 2.3/5</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-52968559790268554872014-10-01T12:16:00.002+08:002014-10-01T12:17:39.946+08:00Progress Pics: 4 Months (Patience is Key)My skin is at it's best condition ever, and I hope it's a plateau, not a mere peak.<br />
<br />
Last June, I took a picture of my untouched cheeks (my skin "problem" area) which had literally huge pore issues. This was my skin, four months ago:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vQAzigtzuf0/U6TuwWPeoHI/AAAAAAAAAgo/6rB2rqxf5n8/s1600/pores.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vQAzigtzuf0/U6TuwWPeoHI/AAAAAAAAAgo/6rB2rqxf5n8/s1600/pores.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Four months later, I am glad to say my skin's pore problem somehow has improved, thanks to adding an exfoliant, switching to a less oily day moisturizer, and using face masks (yes, those creepy looking paper masks). Here's how my skin looks like now. (But please, disregard the fairer skin tone - the sunscreen I used prior to the now photo had a white cast!)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPdrAAdiiZk/VCt74o4t83I/AAAAAAAAAlk/N7gWhCucdwA/s1600/IMG_20141001_115002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPdrAAdiiZk/VCt74o4t83I/AAAAAAAAAlk/N7gWhCucdwA/s1600/IMG_20141001_115002.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Sorry for the messy hair. It's because I hate <br />combing it.</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It may not be quite evident in the photo, but changes to my skin include a smoother skin, and smaller, cleaner looking sebaceous filaments. I also feel like my skin became softer yet firmer - it bounces back, in a way. Application of cosmetics also became breezier. Yay!<br />
<br />
I attribute the changes to ALL of the following:<br />
<br />
1. I am now using an exfoliant every other day. I used to have none. Regular exfoliation helped me keep my pores and SFs at bay.<br />
<br />
2. I switched my moisturizer with an emulsion (a lighter moisturizer of sorts, available from various Korean brands). My face does not look like an oil slick anymore so my pores are no longer emphasized by the shiny slick.<br />
<br />
3. I started using sheet masks again. Every four days, I use a sheet mask instead of my usual night moisturizer. This made me skin plumper/more elastic thanks to the moisture boost.<br />
<br />
I will post reviews on the emulsion and sheet masks when I can, so please stay tuned. And I hope you get to have a happy skin day, too!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-18491972386146757212014-09-16T19:23:00.001+08:002014-09-16T19:23:50.404+08:00Review: Mizon Mela Defense White Multi UV Sun Block SPF 50+ PA+++Hi everyone! I'm back again with another sunscreen review! I've recently jumped into the Mizon AHA bandwagon on reddit, and in effect I also bought their only sunscreen available (in Suesh, at least) here in the Philippines. So here it is, my review for Mizon's Mela Defense White Multi UV Sun Block.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5NZjc0mz9v8/VBgB-bqr0LI/AAAAAAAAAlE/PXqLJY421wY/s1600/mela%2Bdefense.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5NZjc0mz9v8/VBgB-bqr0LI/AAAAAAAAAlE/PXqLJY421wY/s1600/mela%2Bdefense.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>Price and Availability:</b> I've lost my receipt for this purchase, but I'm pretty sure this product did not cost me more than 500 php, putting it at a similar price point with similar cheap emollient Korean sunscreen such as <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/08/review-face-shop-super-perfect-sun.html#.VBf_xsKSxfc">this</a></u>. Sunscreen is not so popular here in the Philippines when compared to whitening products, and so is Mizon because they do not have fancy stores here. So less popularity meant less demand, and less demand meant a very available product.<br />
<br />
<b>Packaging:</b> Not elegant and cute, even if it had pink font and prints. However, adequate information from the box and the easy to squeeze (and deplete) tube both make up for the lack of kawaii-ness. Well, as long as it works, I'm fine with it.<br />
<br />
<b>Texture and Scent:</b> The white creamy sunscreen has a shampoo-y smell to it, which could be overpowering for some. It's good thing it goes away in a few minutes, because I'm not really a fan of overly flowery scents. Too girly!<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b> [<a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_0054151657.html">COSDNA link</a>] Mizon's Mela Defense White Multi UV Sunblock uses chemical filters through and through. In order of concentration, the filters used are as the following: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), Ethylhexyl Salicylate (Octisalate), Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid (Ensulizole), Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinsorb S), and Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone). I've briefly described Octinoxate, Octisalate, and Avobenzone <a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/08/review-face-shop-super-perfect-sun.html#.VBf_xsKSxfc">here</a>. As for the other filters:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kc4O2LF0TMs/VBgSwUDW4iI/AAAAAAAAAlU/UfnFBweEW0E/s1600/ingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kc4O2LF0TMs/VBgSwUDW4iI/AAAAAAAAAlU/UfnFBweEW0E/s1600/ingredients.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br />
Ensulizole - this filter is allowed for in EU as long as it is used in concentrations less than 8%. However, there is some dispute with its stability. Apparently, <u><a href="http://www.nature.com/jid/journal/v130/n10/full/jid2010150a.html">in vitro tests</a></u> show that it may release free radicals which can damage the skin.<br />
<br />
Tinsorb S - a very photostable, broad-spectrum filter which also stabilizes Avobenzone, a notoriously unstable filter. It has not been approved by the US FDA, but is allowed in EU. The ultimate chemical filter, plus it does not exhibit estrogenic effects (per in vitro tests).<br />
<br />
There is a potential acne trigger for people sensitive to fatty alcohols, but this sunscreen has a good amount of Niacinamide on it. So this sunscreen not only protects you from the sun (as long as it is reapplied every two hours), but it can also help with the PIH!<br />
<br />
<b>Finish: </b>This sunscreen is very moisturizing, and it may worsen the oil slick on already very oily skin. The oil film goes away, but only after a good hour or so. It also stings the eyes so it's best to not apply this too close to them. The good thing with this sunscreen, though, is it does not leave ANY white cast at all.<br />
<br />
<b>Rating:</b> This sunscreen is very emollient, and as it has potentially unstable filters, so reapplication is a MUST. While it is cheap and always available in Suesh, the fact that it cannot be applied on skin near your eyes is not good at all, since you'll need another sunscreen your eyes won't react to.<br />
<br />
If you're looking for emollient sunscreen, there are better sunscreen out there, like Missha's All Around Safe Block Essence Sun. It may also sting when used too close to the eyes, but at least its finish is bearable.<br />
<br />
Ingredients: 3/5<br />
Value for money: 3/5<br />
Performance: 3/5<br />
<b>Overall: 3/5</b><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-86500567658411613152014-09-08T16:53:00.001+08:002014-09-08T16:53:32.281+08:00Korean Visa Approved: How I applied plus the impending haulThere's no shortage on guidelines on how to apply for a Korean visa here in their embassy in the Philippines. In fact, their <u><a href="http://embassy_philippines.mofa.go.kr/english/as/embassy_philippines/visa/requirement/">website</a></u> was quite helpful as it listed all of the necessary documents for application. I applied for myself, my husband, and my mother in law who's already a senior citizen. Here's a gist of how I did it:<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>1. Prepare all the requirements</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
While the requirements for <u><a href="http://embassy_philippines.mofa.go.kr/english/as/embassy_philippines/visa/requirement/">employees</a></u> and <u><a href="http://embassy_philippines.mofa.go.kr/webmodule/htsboard/template/read/legengreadboard.jsp?typeID=16&boardid=13950&seqno=684576&c=TITLE&t=&pagenum=2&tableName=TYPE_ENGLEGATIO&pc=&dc=&wc=&lu=&vu=&iu=&du=">"plain old" housewives</a></u> are easy to spot in the website, we had some trouble gathering requirements for my mother in law, because it was not listed anywhere. For housewives, the requirements are similar to an employee's requirements, except the wife will submit her husband's original COE, photocopy of BIR Form 2316, and the photocopy of their NSO Marriage Certificate. It's a proof that she'll be supported by the husband during the visit.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For my mother in law's case, since she's already retired and widowed, she had no ITR and COE or husband's ITR and COE to back her up and hence cannot apply as an employee or a housewife. So what we decided to use as a proof of her capacity to provide for her tour are the following:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
(The usual requirements)</div>
<div>
- Application form</div>
<div>
- Colored passport size picture that will be glued onto the form</div>
<div>
- Original passport</div>
<div>
- Original personal bank certificate</div>
<div>
- Photocopy of the passport's second page (the one with the name, passport number, etc)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
(And the senior citizen specific requirements to compensate for the lack of COE and ITR)</div>
<div>
- Pension certificate from SSS</div>
<div>
- Senior citizen ID photocopy</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My mother in law also had this peculiar problem: the name indicated on her passport and birth certificate is quite different from the name she's always used in all of her documents and bank account. In order for us to prove that the passport holder and the bank account owner is one and the same, we also had to provide the following:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- DFA document stating that Name A = Name B, in order to remove discrepancy with naming of the </div>
<div>
bank account, pension certificate and senior citizen ID</div>
<div>
- NSO birth certificate photocopy (which should bear same name as the one that's in the passport)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>2. Apply at the embassy</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The visa application time is only on weekdays, from 9 to 11 AM. You may apply for the whole group, just like I did! Also, the application is free, as long as the visa's effectivity is only for 59 days.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Before you enter the compound, you'll need to log in with the guard and present an ID. In turn, he will give you a guest ID. You'll be led onto a nearby building, where you'll need to log in again and a piece of paper from an embassy employee who would also scan your requirements. This will be the queue, and it has your window number and queue number. Don't lose it! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once your number is displayed on the top of your designated window, submit your requirements and wait for the officer to give you a claiming slip. In it you can find the date of releasing of the passports.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>3. Wait for the date on your claim slip and go back to the embassy.</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You may get your passport (with or without the visa in it) from Monday to Friday, 2 to 4 PM. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You'll again need to log in at the guardhouse and obtain the guest ID. Upon entering the application area, you are to submit your claiming stub and a list of the names of the applicants to the guard. Again, he will give you a number. Cross your fingers as you file in the line!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When I claimed for our visas I was uneasy with the thought of getting denied. One, because about 10 people before me either had to wait longer as their visas aren't quite ready yet or were flat out denied. Another concern is my husband only had a Form 2306 because he's a new employee, so I was worried that this form would not suffice for Form 2316.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, anyway, all is well, so now we have to plan for the rest of the vacation's details and for my Korean skin care haul (more like Innisfree haul). Hooray~</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-88088928588890315912014-09-04T15:45:00.000+08:002014-09-04T15:45:14.471+08:00Review: Mizon Skin Turnaround Pore Control Peeling TonerI've had awful luck in finding a good chemical exfoliant from Korean skincare brands. I've almost succumbed to just ordering a Paula's Choice AHA or BHA, until a redditor posted a list showing the<u><a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/AsianBeauty/comments/2a8u56/mini_revmizon_ahabha_product_ph_levels/"> pH of some Mizon toners</a></u>. While the best one recommended by the boards is hard to purchase in the Philippines (or at least here in Mandaluyong due to customs duties), one of them was readily available from a local store, Suesh. And so, here's my experience with Mizon's Skin Turnaround Pore Control Peeling Toner.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pL45T4tKlXo/VAbaLqv_2iI/AAAAAAAAAkk/2hWWoOLzgDY/s1600/Pore%2BControl%2BPeeling%2BToner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pL45T4tKlXo/VAbaLqv_2iI/AAAAAAAAAkk/2hWWoOLzgDY/s1600/Pore%2BControl%2BPeeling%2BToner.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>Price and Availability:</b> At 550 php (12-13 USD) for 50 mL, it is a bit more expensive than Paula's Choice exfoliants. However, this toner is an easy find for me as Suesh has a branch at SM Megamall. As for other locations where there are no nearby Suesh branches, PC exfoliants might be easier since Lazada carries them.<br />
<br />
<b>Packaging: </b>The dispensing pump works perfectly, and the box has an English ingredient list and instructions. The glass bottle is simple yet elegant - but if you're a klutz like me, you'll always feel like you might break the bottle!<br />
<br />
<b>Texture and Scent: </b>The toner liquid is water-like clear and has no strong scent despite having fragrance as one of its ingredients. It dries pretty quick upon application. Oh, be sure to use a cotton pad instead of a cotton ball to save some product.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FRLycyXnCCY/VAgF8RPTYvI/AAAAAAAAAk0/p2VK8Apd67o/s1600/Mizon%2BPeeling%2BToner%2B-%2Bingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FRLycyXnCCY/VAgF8RPTYvI/AAAAAAAAAk0/p2VK8Apd67o/s1600/Mizon%2BPeeling%2BToner%2B-%2Bingredients.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b> (<a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_3f38139872.html">COSDNA link</a>) This toner has both AHA and BHA, in the form of glycolic acid and salicylic acid, respectively. Now for a brief description of the ingredients:<br />
<br />
Water - not much to say, except most of our products have water in them, and pH measurements are primarily done in aqueous solutions.<br />
<br />
Alcohol - this helps with the quick-to-absorb feel in products, but unfortunately, may cause drying of the skin. Alcohol helps other ingredients penetrate the skin, but it can also irritate the skin. A double-edged sword, in a way.<br />
<br />
Glycerin - a humectant, which is an ingredient that can pull water from the deeper layers of the skin to hydrate the upper layers.<br />
<br />
Sodium Lactate - according to Wikipedia, it is a "sodium salt of lactic acid". It is also a humectant.<br />
<br />
Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil - an emollient, which is an ingredient that gives the skin a soft and smooth feel.<br />
<br />
Glycolic Acid / Salicylic Acid - the main characters in charge of removing old skin cells to allow for the new ones to be exposed. Glycolic acid is an <u><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpha_hydroxy_acid">AHA</a></u>, while salicylic acid is a <u><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salicylic_acid">BHA</a></u>. Both of these group of compounds are the stars of chemical exfoliants, which when used correctly, can do wonders without the risk of injury to the skin from physical exfoliation. These toners must have the right pH of around 3-4 for them to work, though.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.imgur.com/p5PLmJi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i.imgur.com/p5PLmJi.jpg" height="320" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>And based on this reddit user-contributed image, this toner is okay.</b><br /><i>(From imgur)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Oh and a bit of a side note on AHAs and BHAs:<br />
- use a sunscreen as AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to light<br />
- BHAs are not really recommended for pregnant and lactating women<br />
<br />
<b>Finish / Effect:</b> With all that alcohol content, I'm quite surprised it did not dry my skin out. In fact, I quite like the smooth feel of my skin ever since I've used this toner. Also, it made my pores look cleaner and smaller, as expected for BHAs. However, it did not do any significant improvement for my dark spots from pimples (aka PIH). I'm guessing it's not powerful enough for my skin.<br />
<br />
<b>Rating: </b>Mizon's Pore Control Peeling Toner does control the pores, alright. It meets the required pH range, and with the exception of alcohol, has very good ingredients. While it is a bit more expensive than Paula's Choice exfoliants, this toner is still a good substitute to other hard to purchase toners out there. Personally, I like this toner, but the alcohol in it tempts me to try other products from other brands.<br />
<br />
Value for money: 3/5<br />
Ingredients: 4/5<br />
Performance: 4/5<br />
<b>Overall: 3.6/5</b><br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-54154185020155695272014-08-26T18:20:00.003+08:002014-08-26T18:20:45.276+08:00Review: Cetaphil Moisturizing LotionIn keeping with my promise of reviewing more drugstore products, I decided to purchase a commonly seen moisturizer here in the Philippines. No, I'm not willing to stoop down to the local Pond's or Olay's local formulation yet, but there are dependable brands out there. Here's my take from one of those brand's products - Cetaphil's Moisturizing Lotion.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KCz90SrLFWI/U_xWkqok3dI/AAAAAAAAAkE/c1WZ3BD36pc/s1600/Cetaphil%2BMoisturizing%2BLotion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KCz90SrLFWI/U_xWkqok3dI/AAAAAAAAAkE/c1WZ3BD36pc/s1600/Cetaphil%2BMoisturizing%2BLotion.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a><b>Price and Availability:</b> You'll have to excuse my forgetfulness as I again can only give a ballpark value for losing my receipt. I bought this 237 mL bottle for around 500-600 pesos (11-13 USD) from the nearest supermarket in my place. While it is not as affordable as the other moisturizers in your neighborhood drugstore, the product is quite easy to purchase.<br />
<br />
<b>Packaging:</b> Simple, hygienic and quite sturdy. Very good, unless packaging is a factor for you.<br />
<br />
<b>Texture and Scent: </b>The product is easy to squeeze out of its bottle thanks to its peculiar texture. It is not runny, not heavy, but it holds its shape well - making this product quite easy to spread on the face. As with all Cetaphil products, this moisturizer is fragrance-free, but it has a certain glue-like scent to it<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b> (<a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_428c150715.html">COSDNA link</a>) If you're one of those who have aversions - personal, physical, psychological, whatever - on fatty alcohols, then you might want to steer clear of this one as Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion has a lot of it. Also, you might not want to use this on damaged or injured skin as it has <a href="http://www.truthinaging.com/ingredients/ceteareth-20" style="text-decoration: underline;">Ceteareth-20</a>, which is carcinogenic according to advocates of natural products, but is an OK ingredient with the FDA.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j3ZQibAZPSM/U_xcnj2XP1I/AAAAAAAAAkU/uW7PPmcBx5U/s1600/ingredient%2Blist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j3ZQibAZPSM/U_xcnj2XP1I/AAAAAAAAAkU/uW7PPmcBx5U/s1600/ingredient%2Blist.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Finish/Effect:</b> Just after application, the moisturizer leaves a thin, oily film on the skin which gradually tones down, leaving you with a non-greasy, soft and moisturized skin. I've been using this for weeks and so far, I've had no breakouts from the fatty alcohols in it.<br />
<br />
<b>Rating:</b> Very basic moisturizer, although not as affordable as the <a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/03/review-st-ives-timeless-skin-collagen.html#.U_xXLcWSxfc" style="text-decoration: underline;">others</a> with similar, average performance. It has a few ingredients users might want to be careful of, but it does its job well, anyway.<br />
<br />
Value for money: 3/5<br />
Ingredients: 2/5<br />
Performance:4/5<br />
<b>Overall: 3/5</b><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-26069269692180349112014-08-18T16:18:00.001+08:002014-08-18T16:18:27.138+08:00Review: The Face Shop Super Perfect Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++The rains may have started in the Philippines, but my sunscreen obsession will be unhindered. I still use sunscreen regularly, so I go through them the fastest than any other product type in my skincare stash. Now I am about to review another one, The Face Shop Super Perfect Sun Cream, with an SPF 50+ and PA+++.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_uqhYjVgiJo/U_FgnMZSwII/AAAAAAAAAjQ/8xWeMQVXZZI/s1600/tfs_super%2Bperfect.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_uqhYjVgiJo/U_FgnMZSwII/AAAAAAAAAjQ/8xWeMQVXZZI/s1600/tfs_super%2Bperfect.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a><b>Price and Availability: </b>Considering there are a ton of TFS branches everywhere, availability will not be an issue for those residing in Metro Manila, or even probably Cebu. It costs P475 (around 11 USD) for 50 mL of product - pretty cheap, like Metholatum sunscreen bought from drugstores.</div>
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<b>Packaging:</b> Not much to say as it is quite typical, screw cap and soft squeeze bottle. The box also has adequate information, which is the usual case for The Face Shop items.</div>
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<b>Texture and Scent:</b> I not a fan of scent, but the simple floral fragrance in this sunscreen that pipes down after a few minutes is tolerable. Application is smooth enough, plus it has an initial cooling feeling on the skin. It feels like a typical emollient sunscreen, but not as heavy as the western or the cheap local ones.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zi4D9VMqVX0/U_FkZHGSFmI/AAAAAAAAAjk/kPVIFDPJPMY/s1600/box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zi4D9VMqVX0/U_FkZHGSFmI/AAAAAAAAAjk/kPVIFDPJPMY/s1600/box.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>How to use</b></td></tr>
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<b>Ingredients:</b> [<a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_538c154461.html">COSDNA link</a>] Super Perfect Sun Cream is a combination sunscreen, meaning it has both chemical and physical filters in it. In order of amount are the filters used: Ethyhexyl methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), Ethylhexyl salicylate (Octisalate), Titanium Dioxide, 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor (Parsol 5000), Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone), and Isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate (Amiloxate). Now for a bit more detail.<br />
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Octinoxate - an FDA approved chemical filter that is not very photostable as it degrades as it blocks. It also forms a synergy with avobezone in a negative way - both will perform worse when together.<br />
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Octisalate - also an FDA approved chemical filter which also degrades during sun exposure, though not as bad as avobenzone or octinoxate.<br />
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Titanium dioxide - the only physical filter in the product, which is photostable and capable of blocking both UVA and UVB waves.<br />
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Parsol 5000 - a chemical filter approved by EU but not by the US FDA. It is suspected as an endocrine disruptor, although there are not many studies on it at the moment. In this sunscreen, this chemical is also used to stabilize avobenzone.<br />
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Avobenzone - not photostable as it decomposes as it blocks, and actually performs worse with octinoxate. I try to stay away from it, but I've not been diligent enough memorizing its longer chemical name so I missed it.<br />
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Amiloxate - organic compound used as a filter, although its safety has not yet been approved by the FDA. It is approved for use by the EU, though.<br />
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There are a couple of potential acne triggering and irritating components (cetearyl alcohol and stearic acid), although they aren't part of the main ingredients. As usual, any disaster can be prevented by patch testing.<br />
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What we can conclude from the limited studies on some of the filters is the imperative on reapplication, as with all sunscreen with using chemical filters. Especially since this sun cream has both avobenzone and octinoxate. As for Parsol 5000's potential estrogenic effects, it would be wise to not comment on it as the material supporting or refuting the issues are limited.</div>
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<b>Finish: </b>This is yet another very moisturizing sunscreen, akin to It's Skin's 2 PM sunblock. Over the first couple of times I used this product, white, eraser shavings-like particles (Filipino: <i>libag</i>) formed on my skin and I had no idea why, until I tried to apply exactly 1/4 tsp and spread this amount evenly and quickly. Turns out, a very generous amount and haphazard application will result in these white patches. Applying 1/4 tsp gives an acceptable slight white cast, a bit more and you'll look ridiculous.</div>
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<b>Rating:</b> Cheap and readily available, but has questionable filters. It is very emollient and has a slight white cast, provided the proper amount was used. The filters used warrant reapplication, so it is not recommended to be used under makeup as it needs to be reapplied every two hours.</div>
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Value for money: 3/5</div>
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Ingredients: 2/5</div>
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Performance: 2/5</div>
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<b>Overall: 2.3/5</b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-48803847443708165662014-08-11T15:00:00.000+08:002014-08-11T15:01:42.198+08:00Review: Mentholatum Sunplay Powdery White SPF 47 PA+++I used to dislike sunscreen with white cast, but now from a work-at-home person's perspective, I'd have to say I am okay with a bit of it, as long as it will not irk my husband. And so I have began exploring sunblock with Titanium Dioxide, the compound pretty much responsible for the ghostly look.<br />
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Here's a look at one of such that will obviously leave a white mask - Metholatum's Sunplay Powdery White. The name says a lot and while it may get attention from the whitening-crazy ones, here's a review that will leave them with second thoughts.</div>
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<b>Price and Availability:</b> I got a bottle from PCX priced 349 php (roughly 8 USD) at net weight of 35g. This is a fair cost for a facial sunscreen and is a lot cheaper compared to its Korean counterparts. It was an easy find to as PCX has branches scattered all over Metro Manila.</div>
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<b>Packaging:</b> No frills and quite simple, plus the coral color is very cute. The carton looked dulled by time though (maybe it was an old stock from the store), but to me this is fine as long as the product is not expired. The dispensing nozzle is neat, which is somehow expected for very fluid sunscreen.</div>
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<b>Texture and Scent: </b>The content is very fluid and could make a mess if one insists on pouring 1/4 tsp in one go (note, I have small hands). What I did is pour 1/8 tsp twice so I do not risk of letting the liquid run down my hands. There is a floral scent which is not surprising and tolerable - it goes away in a few minutes and is not overwhelming.</div>
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<b>Ingredients: </b>(<u><a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_8c46153669.html">cosdna link</a></u>, I had to retype as the pre-existing lists are outdated) Sunplay Powdery White is a physical + chemical sunscreen using the following filters: Zinc Oxide, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, and Titanium Dioxide. It has alcohol in it, but not as abundant as the other alcohol-containing sunscreen I've previously used. In fact, this sunscreen has a fair load of emollients and antioxidants in the form of Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate - a stable form of Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. </div>
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<b>Finish:</b> There is a very noticeable white cast upon application, obviously, but unfortunately it does not go away very easily - patting it around for more than 15 minutes and even waiting for 30 minutes (as recommended waiting period for chemical sunscreen) does not cut it. In fact, the white cast is too much, some friends thought I overdosed on Glutathione pills and told me I'm too fair and I looked like a ghost.</div>
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Which brings me to my real point - the white cast can brighten a fair-skinned individual's skin tone, and like me, probably get away with it. But if for the slightly tanned, this product will make you look like a dolled-up geisha, or more like a Noh actor. Very Japanese, indeed. </div>
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Similar to other Japanese sunscreen, Powdery White dries with a matte finish, but is unexpectedly moisturizing thanks to its emollient. </div>
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<b>Rating:</b> A good performing sunscreen with white cast, has a matte finish yet moisturizing, and cheap. Overall, a good sunscreen but with a caveat - a very strong white cast which can be hard to pull of, unless the user is quite fair-skinned.</div>
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Value for money: 5/5</div>
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Ingredient: 4/5</div>
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Performance: 2/5 (because not all can use this product)</div>
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<b>Overall: 3.7</b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-91167690738357598122014-07-31T13:00:00.003+08:002014-07-31T13:00:24.016+08:00Review: The FACE Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Light OilAfter weeks of not doing any review due to my ridiculous supposedly light "freelancing" gig (which turned out to be a handful), I'm back with one, and with a happy note. As to why, we might as well get to it then - here's The FACE Shop's Rice Water Bright Cleansing Light Oil.<br />
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By the way, since I'm too busy nowadays, expect <i>concise</i> reviews - like it or not, there will be less rambling from now on.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><b>Price and Availability:</b> This was an easy purchase for my feet, but not so for my wallet. While there are TFS shops everywhere and this cleansing oil is almost always on-stock, the cost may be quite steep - 615 php (around 13 USD) for 150 ml. At first sight, I thought I would never repurchase because of the price tag, as if this cleanser was lucky I had suddenly ran out of oil and buying this product at that time was the most convenient replacement.<br />
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<b>Packaging:</b> Clean, simple, and complete. That's all there is to it. Oh, it does not have instructions on how to use it. And if you're wondering how I used it, I gently rub my face with this oil for no more than a minute, feel the grit smoothly coming of the skin, and wipe the gunk away with soft cloth. Then I proceed with <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/06/review-skin-foods-wildberry-milk.html#.U9nD2eOSxfc">my foaming cleanser</a></u>.<br />
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<b>Texture and Scent: </b>The product name stays true to its promise: it is light. Lighter than mineral oil, lighter than sunflower oil - it almost felt like water on the skin, only a lot sleeker. The scent is floral, personally nothing to fawn over but not a turnoff.<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b> (<u><a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_9ca5145435.html">Obligatory COSDNA link</a></u>) When I used to cleanse with mineral oil, I usually took my time and spent around a minute letting my mineral oil soaked hand glide on my face. But with this oil, I took caution that one of the main ingredients might trigger acne and irritation (per COSDNA ratings) so I never let this sit too long on my face. All is well for me, but if you're acne prone or quite sensitive, you're better of trying this product first via samples instead of committing on a bottle of something that can break you out.<br />
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<b>Performance: </b>Amazing! I did mention that I got gritty particles off my skin - those are probably from my sebaceous filament. I got those hard oil drops out of my skin like a breeze. This oil has actually helped "minimize" my pores with its great cleaning prowess which I'd say is close to the performance of Kose's <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-kose-softymo-deep-cleansing-oil.html">Softymo Deep Cleansing Oil</a></u>.<br />
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<b>Rating:</b> The FACE Shop's Rice Water Bright Cleansing Light Oil may be a bit pricey, but the superb performance justifies that fact. Sensitive skinned and acne-prone users might need to test patch this product rigorously first, but should this work, then you have a bottle of an amazing makeup and sunscreen remover. Will repurchase again, unless I find a cheaper, light oil of similar aptitude!<br />
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Ingredients: 3/5<br />
Performance: 5/5<br />
Value for money: 4/5<br />
<b>Overall: 4/5</b><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-21235319740029955312014-07-23T16:16:00.000+08:002014-07-23T16:16:13.896+08:00Scared of Paraben? Don't be.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6e/Paraben-2D-skeletal.png/343px-Paraben-2D-skeletal.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6e/Paraben-2D-skeletal.png/343px-Paraben-2D-skeletal.png" height="320" width="182" /></a></div>
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Despite of what <u><a href="http://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/productsingredients/ingredients/ucm128042.htm">government agencies</a></u> and <u><a href="http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancercauses/othercarcinogens/athome/antiperspirants-and-breast-cancer-risk">reputable organizations</a></u> assure us with regards to the safety of parabens in cosmetics, the proliferation of blogs advocating the naturalistic fallacy still breathes life into a paraben controversy which should not have been controversial anyway (if only the people sourcing the study read the <u><a href="http://www.dr-baumann.ca/science/Concentrations%20of%20Parabens%20in%20Human%20Breast.pdf">whole report</a></u>). In effect, consumers are often led to buying more expensive, paraben-free products or worse, led into having a false sense of security that anything natural is safe.</div>
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Parabens are a family of compounds used as a preservative in cosmetics, and even in food. These compounds prevent the growth of bacteria and are usually used in combination with other parabens in very low concentrations - less than 0.5% versus the 25% threshold set by industry experts. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.freevector.com/site_media/thumbs/dc/a2/dca249831c97a3f830337b0173a66746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.freevector.com/site_media/thumbs/dc/a2/dca249831c97a3f830337b0173a66746.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Not always safe. </b><br /><i>Image from freevector.com<br /></i></td></tr>
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In 2004, a study found parabens in breast cancer cells and launched an internet-wide e-mail scare connecting parabens and cancer, although reading the study itself does not correlate these two directly. In fact, the <u><a href="http://as.wiley.com/WileyCDA/PressRelease/pressReleaseId-102079.html">researcher himself</a></u>, said parabens cannot be simply be concluded as the cause of breast cancer, though the findings do warrant further investigation. Which FDA and SCCP (EU) did anyway, which concluded that paraben use is still safe.</div>
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Parabens are known to have weak-estrogen like properties, although when compared to the natural estrogen are hundred-folds weaker. Furthermore, the very low concentrations used by the industry make paraben an unlikely cause of breast cancer, at least. So why be afraid of something found in trace, and studied extensively by authorities? Instead of wasting energy on spreading unfounded fear, why not delve into chemical compositions of natural ingredients so we could collectively assess the safety of these as well? </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-70444991702270542672014-07-15T12:40:00.002+08:002014-07-15T12:40:47.229+08:00How to Prepare your Condominium Unit for a TyphoonMetro Manila is no stranger to high-rise residential units, and as strong typhoons loom over the country, residents all over the metro are advised to "prepare" for the possible effect of a storm - with flooding and brownouts being the most common culprits for home owners. However, despite of the many condominiums scattered all over the Manila, media does not seem to tackle condominium preparedness and condominium unit owners are left clueless on how to ready themselves for storms, especially the effect of wind.<div>
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Today, in my own preparation for the typhoon Glenda, I would like to share some points on preparedness to fellow condominium-dwelling Pinoys.</div>
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<b>1. Keep the windows, or any opening than may let the violent winds in, closed.</b> It would be wise to not open your doors to the hallway, too. You wouldn't want air from outside entering your unit as this may induce suction pressure and add to the risk of breaking glass windows.</div>
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<b>2. Stay away from windows. In case they break.</b> It would be better if you have draperies that could at least dampen the shattered glass flying towards you.</div>
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<b>3. Stock up on provisions and supplies.</b> Yeah, sure, you can buy from the nearest convenience store, as long as you're capable of climbing up to your unit at the 30th floor using your stairwell, should your elevator be dead. </div>
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<b>4. Your patio/balcony items should be kept inside the unit.</b> The storm is hazardous enough for passers-by below, and while they can survive the storm itself, falling debris from irresponsible unit owners may injure or kill them.</div>
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<b>5. Observe seeping water.</b> Especially if they may possibly reach your outlets (take openings for air conditioners with the outlet very close to the unit) and take measures to protect them. Leak from roof decks is also possible, so it might be wise to turn your circuit breaker off until you're sure your electrical conduits aren't invaded by water.</div>
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<b>6. Know where the fire exit is.</b> I mean, you should have known this from Day 1 of living in your unit. </div>
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<b>7. Store water.</b> If you have a bathtub, then fill it. If you have pails, you may use them, too. You'll need to wash the dishes or clean your toilet and bath somehow, and storing water can prepare you in case the tanks are emptied or if the pump does not work and there is no water from the faucet during the storm.</div>
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<b>8. Stay at an "inner" room or at the hallways during the wind's onslaught</b>. It might also be safe to stay at lower floors if the wind is too strong, as the pressure if the wind increases with elevation.</div>
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With elevation comes protection from flooding, but it increases the risk from wind damage. As with any other impending disaster, preparedness is key - regardless of what your living unit is. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-8734936251895855432014-07-13T12:02:00.000+08:002014-07-13T12:02:00.052+08:00Whitening and Blood Clots: What is Tranexamic Acid?<div>
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Hopefully, you've read the <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/07/blood-clots-and-freelancing.html">previous post</a></u>, because the build-up was kind of there.</div>
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Because I have more free time, I am now tasked with the traditional <i>"sa bahay lang" </i>housewife role and am now in charge of everything housekeeping and cooking. I cannot carry very heavy loads according to my doctor, so every other day, I go to the nearest grocery to pick up household items and ingredients for our meals. I always make it a point to make fun of some products sold in the beauty aisle or read product labels.</div>
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Anyway, I've noticed that my go-to grocery, and I'm betting many other groceries, sell much more variety of whitening soaps compared to that of normal soap. Whitening soap with different ingredients saturate the shelves while ironically, the sunscreen area is tucked in an obscure corner. The "canon" whitening products are still there: papaya, calamansi, glutathione, kojic acid. Then something catches my eye: kojic acid with tranexamic acid. </div>
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I've never heard of tranexamic acid before, so I took a mental note of the spelling, went on with my routine and proceeded to read about it after all the housework. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tranexamic_acid">Wikipedia</a>, basically says it is given by doctor to patients with the risk of heavy bleeding. Huh? How was this related to skincare? How this ingredient was discovered as a whitening ingredient is beyond my Googling powers, but at least I now have an idea and how people use it, so I can share it with everyone.</div>
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Tranexamic acid is not only a drug that helps prevent too much bleeding, but it is used also to treat melasma and may be administered orally, with a prescription of course. Shiseido introduced this ingredient in one of their whitening lines around 1990 to 2000. Topical products and drips are also being marketed, despite the obvious health risks and unwanted side effects. </div>
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<b>Does it work?</b></div>
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<u><a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22552446">One study</a></u> followed the progress of 74 Chinese women, all given two 250 mg/day tablets for 6 months. Most subjects had favorable results: out of the 74, 8 had excellent results, 40 had good ones, and 23 had fair results. However, around 10% of the subject got their melasma back after the study. No mention of control for the study was made, so the conclusion of its safety and efficacy remain disputable.</div>
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A randomized, blind <u><a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22506692">study</a></u> found the application of 5% tranexamic acid topically was basically insignificant and even caused redness on the skin. Another <u><a href="http://www.globale-dermatologie.com/en/melasma-et-acide-tranexamique-une-autre-etude.html#.U74A9JSSxfc">study</a></u>, with combined topicals and orals, had similar unimpressive results with minor unwanted side effects. </div>
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A preliminary <u><a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16706756">clinical trial </a></u>showed the effectivity of weekly injected tranexamic acid on localized melasma lesions. The study period lasted for three months with almost 85% of the respondents achieving 25-75% lightening. It was deemed safe, at a low dosage of 50 mL weekly. No controls were provided.</div>
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Drips have not been studied yet, but as with any other drips, this is discouraged by doctors for cosmetics use. </div>
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tl;dr: Limited studies show tranexamic acid works as an injectable at controlled dosages. As for the oral and topicals, the results are mixed due to side effects and/or recurrence of dark spots.</div>
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<b>Any side effects?</b></div>
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The minor side effects observed include gastrointestinal discomfort, extremely light menstrual flows, mild headaches, back, joint or muscle pain. Tranexamic acid should not be used long term (beyong 6 months) due to its bigger side effects: blood clots and heart attacks. Its approved concentration ranges from 1.5%-3% depending on the country imposing the regulation (the Philippines has none).</div>
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It may not be used by people with known clotting problems, acquired defective color vision, and hypersensitivity to the acid, and pregnant women (it has the same category as kojic acid). </div>
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<b>So about the soap?</b></div>
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A hit or a miss. May cause hypersensitivity and redness and other unknown side effects (very limited studies exist). Not for the pregnant, people with heart, clotting and eye problems. Patch test prior to use and go crazy with sunblock. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-89304412530162412462014-07-10T10:18:00.000+08:002014-07-10T10:18:14.981+08:00Blood Clots and FreelancingI have been unemployed more than two months now, but luckily, still earning - although it's nowhere half of what I used to make. It may seem like a stupid route to go, but to me who needs time to rest, get fit and pursue other alternative methods of earning in lieu of a 8 am - 6 pm job, it's a very good trade-off. <div>
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However, not many are aware of what working from home really is, probably due to the obvious lie of an advertisement we see in the internet: work-at-home mom earns 200 USD an hour, or something like that. My mother and sister-in-law thought it was such a breeze - you know, no bosses, no <i>chismosa</i> office workers, no commutes, you get tons of free time, and of course, the great pay. Little do they know that freelancing is literally being your own boss, accountant, marketing personnel, driver, courier, errand boy - basically wearing several hats with the pay of just one person.</div>
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Freelancing, I thought prior to starting this, would give you more time. Now, this is true but there's a catch. You are expected to be ALWAYS available, especially if you have clients who are beating deadlines. Oh, you're trying to lull your baby to sleep,? Better let him/her sleep on his own then. You can't work too late in the evening? We still have daylight here, and so do our clients. There is immense flexibility of time, but it works for your and your client.</div>
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Anyway, I just had to put this here in case you guys were wondering about the post frequency. I've been too busy with a client and I was making sure I do not miss out on this opportunity. I mean, I use the money I earn for bills and my skincare addiction! </div>
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I'll be back with a slightly related story on tranexamic acid in a few days. Stay beautiful!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-32284881612138261492014-07-03T17:18:00.001+08:002014-07-03T17:18:19.241+08:00Review: TONYMOLY UV Sunset Aqua Sun Gel SPF30 PA++Ever since I started working from home, I have been using less powerful sunscreen on days when I do not go out. The curtains may be blocking out a lot of light, but when it comes to skincare and the sun, one cannot be so carefree - so sunscreen stays. But I do not like the heavy feeling of my usual high protection sunscreen (SPF 50 and PA+++ ones) especially since I'm at home, and I'd really like that bare, at-home, light feeling on the skin. And so I tried looking for a light sunscreen and it led me to TONYMOLY's UV Sunset Aqua Sun Gel.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CQZlzKVsTgc/U7Tz7YvnEgI/AAAAAAAAAhg/3QfK8MhRGWs/s1600/UV+sunset+gel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CQZlzKVsTgc/U7Tz7YvnEgI/AAAAAAAAAhg/3QfK8MhRGWs/s1600/UV+sunset+gel.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a><b>Price and Availability:</b> The 45g bottle costs 678 php, which for me is expensive, especially when compared to other Japanese sunscreen (which sadly has alcohol). I did not have any trouble finding this product though. So if you live in Metro Manila, getting hold of this sunscreen woukd be no problem as there are a lot of TONYMOLY branches in malls.<br />
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<b>Packaging: </b>The squeeze bottle is something to rave about, as it is quite handy and compact. It is also surprisingly sturdy, considering you need to squeeze it to get the product out. Don't be intimidated by the tough tube though, because you can still get the goods out effortlessly.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BSBup054lb4/U7UNqacCjUI/AAAAAAAAAh0/D8QbdQfuewg/s1600/IMG_20140626_110116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BSBup054lb4/U7UNqacCjUI/AAAAAAAAAh0/D8QbdQfuewg/s1600/IMG_20140626_110116.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>At 100 mm x 25 mm x 25 mm, it is handy <br />and can fit easily in a purse.</b></td></tr>
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<b>Texture and Scent:</b> True to its name, the sunscreen does have a gel-like consistency - it even leaves your skin feeling a lot cooler upon application, which is a plus for this sunscreen. It does have a fragrance which is fine and is not quite as strong as other sunscreens like <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/01/review-etude-house-sunprise-spf-30pa.html#.U7UKyZSSxfc">Sunprise</a></u> or <a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/03/review-its-skin-2-pm-sunblock.html" style="text-decoration: underline;">2 PM sunblock</a>, although personally, I'd like to have sunscreen with very mild or no scent at all.<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b> After the imaginary nosebleed brought by the typing of a lot of strange chemical names (I hated Chemistry), I present to you the ingredient list from <u><a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_52ad149623.html">cosdna.com</a></u>! Now a run-down with the main ingredients:<br />
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Referring to the table, Glacial Water should be listed as the second ingredient. There are no scientific studies on how glacial water affects the skin, so let's be prudent and assume there is nothing extraordinary with this ingredient when compared with water.<br />
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Now for the main filters, as cosdna did not provide the pie chart-ish UVA/UVB protection icons, let's check the individual filters with <u><a href="http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/uva-and-uvb/understanding-uva-and-uvb">skincancer.org</a></u>'s nifty sunscreen table. The filters used for this sunscreen include Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (also known as Octinoxate), Ethylhexyl salicylate (also known as Octisalate), Isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate (also known as Amiloxate), and Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus). The last two filters are not yet approved by the US FDA, so I got their data from <u><a href="http://www.skinacea.com/sunscreen/uv-filters-chart.html#.U7UUGpSSxfc">Skinacea</a></u>. Upon checking, this product can provide very adequate UVB protection, but no so adequate UVA protection. This is because Uvinul A plus, the only one with UVA protection, cannot block the whole range of UVA rays.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-meA6plJQUxU/U7UbyesBKoI/AAAAAAAAAiA/oKy2XWxOChs/s1600/Uv+sunset+ing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-meA6plJQUxU/U7UbyesBKoI/AAAAAAAAAiA/oKy2XWxOChs/s1600/Uv+sunset+ing.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Finish:</b> The feel is quite similar to Etude House's Sunprise Water Jelly, and I would have liked the finish if I were still in an air-conditioned room for more than 10 hours. Unfortunately, the Manila heat is too much and the sunscreen just adds up to the greasy feeling of sweat, sebum, and moisturizers.<br />
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I like the dewy finish with this product as well, but my relatives often think it is a thin film of sweat. Most Filipinos are not fans of the look, proven by the common and constant use of powder to hide sebum and profusely scrubbing of the oily face with a dirty handkerchief.<br />
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<b>Rating:</b> UV Sunset Aqua Gel maybe a bit on the pricey side and not very adequate in terms of protection, but the nice texture and finish makes up for it. Do note that I cannot recommend this for use outdoors, due to the limited filter performance. Also, if you're from the Philippines, most people might confuse your look with ordinary face grease because we have not caught on to that trend yet.<br />
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Value for money: 3/5<br />
Ingredients: 3/5<br />
Performance: 3/5<br />
<b>Overall: 3/5</b><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-52093932770431327282014-06-26T11:42:00.000+08:002014-06-26T11:42:08.883+08:00Review: Skin Food's Wildberry Milk Cleansing Foam (moist)Have you ever been in a situation where you think you're contented with everything, then something comes along and takes you by surprise? I had this happen to me weeks ago when I started using Skin Food's Wildberry Milk Cleansing Foam - and it's THE best foaming cleanser ever.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R5i_11dOdlA/U6uFgSebUnI/AAAAAAAAAg0/hPJN7CnJC8Q/s1600/wildberry_SF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R5i_11dOdlA/U6uFgSebUnI/AAAAAAAAAg0/hPJN7CnJC8Q/s1600/wildberry_SF.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Price and Availability: </b>I have been not careful (again) with my receipt-keeping so the best I can do is give the price range: it's around 350 to 400 php (8-9 USD) from my local Skin Food (Glorietta). If you ask me this is already expensive compared to most drugstore brands priced at no more than 200 php, and The FACE Shop's Herb Day 365 to no more than 300 php (and more product).<br />
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<b>Packaging:</b> I've always loved Skin Food's packaging, especially their products with clean-looking, no frills containers. This simple tube has instructions, manufacturer data and most importantly, the ingredient list.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JAgTsIWnUpg/U6uJoF7OP-I/AAAAAAAAAhA/fS9Cu9uIJm4/s1600/wildberry+instructions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JAgTsIWnUpg/U6uJoF7OP-I/AAAAAAAAAhA/fS9Cu9uIJm4/s1600/wildberry+instructions.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Texture and Scent: </b>The texture is remarkably typical of foaming cleansers which is a good thing. The scent, however, is divine, and it is by far the best fragrance I've ever sampled from a skin care product - heck, maybe even from perfumes or colognes! It smells citrus-y and is reminiscent of berries, but not the usual sickly, hack strawberry scent like the others. If you're the type who is lazy with cleansing, the fragrance in this cleanser might motivate you.<br />
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<b>Ingredients</b> (<a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_9bf4149001.html">from cosdna</a>): While the scent is something to be raved about, the same cannot be said for its ingredients, according to cosdna. I've been using it for two weeks and I've had no negative reactions with this, and it's probably because the product sits on my skin for only a few seconds because cleanser. Anyway, for those who are acne-prone and still willing to try this product, be sure to patch test. Safety first, as we engineers always say.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QgmyaQSkVQU/U6uSY92fZVI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/ivqm6t6Kkfk/s1600/Wildberry+ingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QgmyaQSkVQU/U6uSY92fZVI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/ivqm6t6Kkfk/s1600/Wildberry+ingredients.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Performance:</b> The fruity scent may have been enough to win my favor, but the performance is nothing short of extraordinary. It cleans quite well and leaves no greasy feeling, even with a prior baby oil slick on my face after routine OCM. On top of that, it also leaves it the skin amiss of that tight feeling after a wash (which is caused by very harsh cleansers), making it an overall very good facial wash.<br />
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<b>Rating:</b> Although not very cheap, this is by far, the best cleansing foam I've used and is now my HG. The vibrant fragrance is enough to love this product, but the thoroughness in cleansing without stripping the skin is a perfect example of what a cleanser SHOULD do. Highly recommended, with careful patch testing for acne prone users.<br />
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Ingredients: 4/5<br />
Performance: 5/5<br />
Value for money: 4/5<br />
<b>Overall: 4.3/5</b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-22522270905396623822014-06-21T11:31:00.003+08:002014-06-21T11:31:45.770+08:00Throwback: How I Started with my (Korean) Skincare Regimen To my friends who are curious with my skin care, I must be the biggest liar in the country when I say I used to have bad, pimple-ridden skin. So then I get bombarded by a ton of questions on product recommendations some practices I do with my skin.<br />
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<b>What I had:</b> I had a lot of pimples, scars and PIH (thanks to puberty). The only routine I had was washing my face with a Pond's cleanser. My skin was very oily, sensitive, and acne-prone. I also used <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2013/07/sour-facts-of-calamondin-calamansi.html">calamansi</a></u> (as per my mother's advice), and I went to the a facial salon a couple of times to have my pores cleaned.<br />
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To be short about it, my journey is quite simple, but unexpected. But here's how I did it anyway.<br />
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<b>1. I dropped everything I did with my skin.</b><br />
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I even gave up cleansing with facial washes and only used water. I did this as an act of submission, that maybe, since I was a teenager, I better let nature take its course and let it put pimples on my face as long as it wanted, then I'll save hundreds of thousands of pesos to go to a doctor to fix my skin (yes, I was stupid).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/cd/White_Flag.jpg/800px-White_Flag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/cd/White_Flag.jpg/800px-White_Flag.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>I give up!</b><br /><i>(Mauro Beig / <a href="http://worldpeace.no/">worldpeace.no</a>)</i></td></tr>
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And it didn't turn out as I expected. I noticed the redness of my face was toned down and the pimples weren't as big as they used to be. In hindsight, my face must have been irritated by the multitudes of stuff I put on it and may have been interacting with one another. Also, it was actually a good reference to the real state of my skin prior to any product use.<br />
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<b>2. I stopped touching my face.</b><br />
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I read somewhere (probably in a book / newspaper / magazine) that our hands are home to dirt and bacteria, and I decided to stop touching my face, which may sound simple, but is actually hard to do when it has been quite a habit. I can no longer "remove" my <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2013/07/black-and-white-deal-with-sebaceous.html">blackheads and whiteheads</a></u>, pop my pimples or feel the roughness of my skin.<br />
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And guess what? After a few weeks, the quantity of my pimples have been reduced. I may not know who wrote that article, but he/she saved my skin, literally.<br />
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<b>3. I gave up on the facial.</b><br />
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I liked how clean my face feels after a facial, but I hated the pores which seemed larger and larger days after every facial session. I realized the extraction of my sebaceous filament (I thought they were whiteheads) made my pores look bigger and I had to stop it.<br />
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Later, I read in a magazine article that teens should not be subjecting their faces to facials yet as these procedures can damage the young skin permanently. Even until today, my pores are quite noticeable. I'll probably need to have a proper procedure done by a dermatologist (and not by any facial "expert" anymore)!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vQAzigtzuf0/U6TuwWPeoHI/AAAAAAAAAgk/-u83XDRWJTo/s1600/pores.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vQAzigtzuf0/U6TuwWPeoHI/AAAAAAAAAgk/-u83XDRWJTo/s1600/pores.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>My cheeks and nose were once subject to white/blackhead extractions<br />and now my pores on them are just big compared to the others.<br />#nomakeup</b></td></tr>
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<b>3. I reintroduced every skin care step, one at a time.</b><br />
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I reintroduced my Pond's cleanser, and found that it was contributing to the redness so I stopped using it and tried my mom's bar cleanser (from her favorite facial salon). I noticed how my skin was less oilier, but it felt tight, and dry just after washing. So I bought a Pond's cream, and then hated it.<br />
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It was 2003, and SM Fairview's The FACE Shop had just opened (or maybe earlier - I did not care for Korean products at that time), so I decided to try a moisturizer specifically made for oilier skin. I cannot recall the name of that moisturizer, but I know they do not sell it anymore.<br />
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After introducing a moisturizer, my face was less oilier, and the acne started to heal. It's funny how people with oily skin (like myself at that time) are afraid of moisturizers thinking that it may exacerbate the greasy film on their skin when oily skin could simply be your skin overproducing sebum because you fail to provide some level of moisturization. This introduction of a proper moisturizer is also what triggered the healing process of the PIHs and acne scars.<br />
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I introduced a toner from the same line and found that it helped lessen the grease. I used a cheap facial cleanser from The FACE Shop too, and that helped with the extreme tightness after washing. I now had a skin care regimen which I stuck with for five years!<br />
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<b>Tl; dr: I stopped everything and reintroduced products one by one. </b><br />
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So there you have it, a my personal Skincare 101 journey which I believe may work for you guys as well. Just be patient and treat your skin gently. If all else fails, go to a doctor, and not to a beautician - would you go to a diet fad expert instead of a cardiologist when you have a heart problem?<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-517444907122672012014-06-16T14:22:00.001+08:002014-06-16T14:22:15.037+08:00The Brown-Skinned Beauty In A Sea of "White"-Obsessed FoolsLove yourself. How hard can it be?<br />
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Not quite easy in a country where conformity is the standard, especially when it asks you to conform to what nature has not given you: "white" skin. As a kid, I have always wondered why we are so obsessed with how fair our skin is, and throughout the years, found the apparent reasons of people who believe this idea quite absurd, with the same magnitude as the stupidity of the believer itself. Which is why finding people who can learn to appreciate their color is always a welcome surprise.<br />
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Meet <u><a href="http://www.rappler.com/move-ph/balikbayan/voices/59573-after-moving-abroad-brown-skin?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=referral">Julienne</a></u>, a <i>kayumanggi </i>beauty working in Hong Kong. She used to despise her skin's color because of the typical Filipino's notions on skin tone, but finally learned to love herself, thanks to her working abroad and finding people who actually loved her look.<br />
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It was family and friends that first conditioned Julienne into coveting that white skin, on the grounds that white skin suggests fair-skinned people seemed "<i>mabango </i>(good smelling / fresh)<i>". </i>I interviewed my mother-in-law, who did not want her granddaughter staying in the provinces and stay with the kid's other grandmother because she did not want the girl to become darker. I asked why she did not like dark skin and she told me, <i>"hindi kasi mukhang malinis</i> (it's because it looks dirty)". Everything starts at home, as I'd like to put it - and tanned skin, even if you were born with it, is monstrous.<br />
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It was a good thing Julienne was able to meet other people who looked at her skin in a different light. She finally learned to accept what nature had given her. But pity for those people stuck in this country, like that little girl who will be bent on avoiding the sun and spending a ton of cash on whitening products because her grandmother taught her the "standard" of keeping her skin as fair as it can be.<br />
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I've always believed that beauty has always been defined by our socio-economic biases. During the Victorian Era, European had to do <u><a href="http://beautifulwithbrains.com/2010/08/06/beauty-in-the-victorian-age/">a lot of crazy things</a></u> just to lighten their complexion because white skin was <i>the </i>standard. Note that the nobles at that time had fairer skin while the common folk had darker shades from working under the sun. Now, Westerners prefer "tanned" skin as this signifies one is not a meager office/factory slave worker who never gets time to go outdoors.<br />
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In modern Philippines, the belief is more Victorian - fair skin is akin to one's riches, which is quite funny considering some of these riches are funneled out trying to "look" rich, to look whiter. Unfortunately, it is quite normal for Filipinos to have naturally golden skin - just like the little girl who in a few years may fall as a glutathione junkie. Which brings us the status of the skin care market - heavily packed with whitening products, cashing in on changing the Filipino's natural color into something straight out of a stupid, poorly written, badly casted, Filipino telenovela.<br />
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Just looking at the constant barrage of advertisement on whitening products is enough to paint the bleak futile future of skin care in the country. With too many whitening products in the market, it is quite alarming that the number of sunblock and sunscreen products are not as visible than their exfoliating/false-coloring counterparts, especially when lighter skin is tantamount to lesser sun protection, thus heightened risk for skin cancer.<br />
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Like Julienne, I am hopeful that Filipinos finally learn to love themselves, at least for the sake of their meager earnings and health. While it is true that a more open, rational paradigm shift on skin tone will take generations, we Filipinos should be practical and focus on more important matters, like actually becoming rich, than just looking like one. Let beauty be defined by you, not by media or society's wretched biases.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-62098283399149104932014-06-11T17:38:00.002+08:002014-06-11T17:39:56.973+08:00Yes, They Exist.: Great Beauty Products for Less Than 100 PesosMost people have this bias that anything sold expensive must be superior to cheap ones. However, there are a few good beauty finds in supermarkets here in the Philippines that are surprisingly cheap. How cheap? Below-100-pesos* cheap!<br />
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<i>(*a little more than 2 USD) </i><br />
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1.<b> Dove Bar</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xK_fFTW3gKo/U5gVBVTm1cI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/oTjQ1cy66QY/s1600/dove+beauty+bar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xK_fFTW3gKo/U5gVBVTm1cI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/oTjQ1cy66QY/s1600/dove+beauty+bar.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Image from <a href="http://dove.us/">dove.us</a></i></td></tr>
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<b>How much is it:</b> around 55 php for a 135g bar<br />
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Women who probably had relatives from the US during their childhood days may know this bar as the slippery, soft, cream-like soap which somehow always makes the <i>balikbayan </i>box. While the local formula may have been tweaked and is far from the nostalgic, very moisturizing, melting-within-a-few-days bar, it is a good alternative to your usual body soap and even from the more expensive ones from upscale beauty stores.<br />
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2. <b>Fitness Oil Control Sheet </b><br />
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<b>How much is it:</b> 31 php for 100 sheets<br />
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The average Filipina-way of dealing with skin oiliness whenever outdoors seems to be wiping the face crazily with their handkerchief and putting some baby powder on it post-stress. The constant pulling of the skin when using the handkerchief could damage your skin - and this is where oil blotting paper can help. Rather than pull the skin during wiping, blotters can work by merely patting your skin with the tiny blotting paper and voila, less oilier skin without risk of damaged capillaries.<br />
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3. <b>Nivea Lip Care Fruity Shine Strawberry </b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nivea.ph/-/media/NIVEA/en-PH/packshots/products-packshots/lip-care/fruity-shine/fruity%20shine%20strawberry/fruity_shine_pink_strawberry.ashx?mh=350&mw=260&reflection=1&reflectionHeight=50" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.nivea.ph/-/media/NIVEA/en-PH/packshots/products-packshots/lip-care/fruity-shine/fruity%20shine%20strawberry/fruity_shine_pink_strawberry.ashx?mh=350&mw=260&reflection=1&reflectionHeight=50" height="320" width="97" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From <a href="http://nivea.ph/">nivea.ph</a></td></tr>
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<b>How much is it:</b> 80 php for 4.8g<br />
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It moisturizes, adds some tint, doubles as a lip gloss, has some SPF and has a delicious fruity flavor - all at a third of the typical price of a Korean lip balm. What more can we ask for?<br />
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4. <b>Apollo Petroleum Jelly</b><br />
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<b>How much is it:</b> 83 php for 100g<br />
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Don't believe the uninformed, tree hugging detractors of petroleum jelly, or else you'll miss out on this very useful product. Petroleum jelly is a <a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2014/01/drugstore-product-review-petroleum-jelly.html" style="text-decoration: underline;">very versatile ingredient</a> - a shape-shifting product if you may - from sleeping pack to lip balm. Even if you happen to hate it as a moisturizer, you can still find tons of uses for this product, making the meager price tag totally worth it.<br />
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5. <b>Johnson and Johnson's Baby Oil </b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.johnsonsbaby.com/sites/default/files/baby_oil_155x216_0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.johnsonsbaby.com/sites/default/files/baby_oil_155x216_0.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>From <a href="http://johnsonsbaby.com/">johnsonsbaby.com</a></i></td></tr>
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<b>How much is it:</b> 63 php for 125 mL<br />
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Another useful product which along with its brother, petroleum jelly, which always falls in the hands of people who feel scared due to ignorance. Unless you're allergic to fragrance, this oil is the cheapest and safest (rarely brings adverse skin reactions) product to clean up your pores (or "remove" blackheads and whiteheads, which are only dirt-ridden <u><a href="http://pas-sosyal.blogspot.com/2013/07/black-and-white-deal-with-sebaceous.html">sebacaeous filament</a></u>). Also, it is moisturizing, non-comedogenic, and not at all carcinogenic. By the way, remember to get the original, PINK bottle capped one, as the other variants have other oils which may react with your skin.<br />
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So ladies, lack of budget is no excuse to not have good skin care products!<br />
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If you know of more similarly cheap and great finds, feel free to drop them below.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-58486697056009058142014-06-08T00:16:00.001+08:002014-06-08T00:16:48.721+08:00First Impressions: Skinfood's Strawberry Black Sugar Mask Wash-off and Argan Oil Silk Hair Mask PackHi everyone! Today we willl be taking a look at a couple of free samples snagged from Skinfood Glorietta's sale last week - one of which I am keen on purchasing, of course only if the price is right, and the other I will never spend money on. Let's have a look shall we?<br />
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<a name='more'></a>We begin with the <b>Strawberry Black Sugar Mask Wash-Off</b>. Upon opening of the packet, you'll be greeted by a very heavenly strawberry scent, which can make you both feeling giddy and weird at the same time, because the mask smells so good and you might be tempted to eat it.<br />
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It is a rinse-off mask which, according to the instructions at the back, should be left for a good 10 minutes after scrubbing the grainy sweet concoction on the face. While the 10 minutes of waiting is quite all right because of the pack's good smells, the scrubbing isn't, specifically because the sugar granules might cause very small, uncontrolled deep cuts (you can't see them) on the face.<br />
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This product cannot be really recommended for the face, but it might work well for the body. But it your wallet might mind the price of using a facial product for your body, especially if there are a lot of cheap alternatives.<br />
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Next up is the <b>Agran Oil Silk Hair Mask Pack</b>. The hair mask, or hair treatment, has very good consistency - it is easy to spread onto your hair but it's not very runny that the treatment might trickle down while you're on the 5 minute wait prior to rinsing.<br />
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It has a slight nutty scent which is not overbearing and goes away in a few minutes. As for the result, you can get a very silky soft finish, which is expected, but it leads by miles when compared to the local hair treatment sold in the Philippine's supermarkets.<br />
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Are there Korean samples you have tried today? Feel free to leave your experiences below.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8156554976222800059.post-15125107691568752322014-06-03T13:03:00.002+08:002014-06-03T13:03:54.915+08:00Random Skincare Facts on Baking SodaWe've seen a lot of Youtubers and bloggers promoting the use of baking soda for facial skin care, usually as washes or as exfoliator. Popular as it may seem though, baking soda is one ingredient not meant for the face. especially if used on DIY skincare recipes. Today, we'll take a look on what baking soda is and how it affects the skin.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Good for baking, bad for skin.</b><br /><i>(Image from Arm & Hammer <a href="http://armandhammerbakingsoda.ca/">website</a>)</i></td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>Baking soda is the non-chemical sounding name for the salt <b>sodium bicarbonate</b>. It is often used as a food additive as leavening agents, ingredient in fire retardants, and as cleaning agent. It also has become a personal and skin care product, thanks to old wives tales and the internet.<br />
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Baking soda is safe for consumption is small quantities, such as its use in baking. However, there is such thing as a "<u><a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002749.htm">baking soda overdose</a></u>" which may cause great discomfort. As with anything, too much is bad!<br />
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So how is it bad for the skin? Baking soda is highly alkaline, with a pH of around 8.5-9.5. The skin, however, is protected by a thin film called the acid mantle. This barrier is what prevents bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants from penetrating the skin. It even protects against moisture loss and should be maintained for a healthy skin! While the barrier is slightly affected by the usually alkaline contaminants, it can be greatly affected by skin care items with the wrong pH - and baking soda is most certainly at the wrong pH as it is "too alkaline", just like lemon which is "too acidic".<br />
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Damaging the acid mantle can allow for more bacteria on the skin, which can lead to acne. To compensate for the higher pH of the skin due to baking soda use for cleansing (or use of a cleanser nowhere near the acid mantle's pH), the oil glands tend to secrete more oil, and this of course will lead to oilier skin.<br />
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Fun fact 1: Baking soda and SLS have around the same pH! SLS and SLES may be irritating for some people, hence the advocacy for SLS/SLES free products. Which makes the use of baking soda (alone or with other acids and unformulated) seem a bit crazier.<br />
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Fun Fact 2: Baking soda is <u><a href="http://www.madehow.com/Volume-1/Baking-Soda.html">not a natural compound</a></u> - as in "found in nature" compound. It's also synthesized in laboratories, just like the rest of the "scary chemicals". It can also be chemically refined from mined ores.<br />
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Fun Fact 3: It's <u><a href="http://www.futurederm.com/2012/06/20/3-reasons-why-baking-soda-and-apple-cider-vinegar-destroy-your-hair-and-what-to-use-instead/">not good for the hair</a></u>, but is unfortunately used with apple cider vinegar for no-shampoo advocates.<br />
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Fun Fact 4: <u><a href="http://blog.kanelstrand.com/2014/01/baking-soda-destroyed-my-hair.html">Diluting it in water alone does not really help lower its pH</a></u>, as brilliantly put by this unfortunate former no-poo supporter.<br />
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Fun Fact 5 (not skin care): Baking soda is not baking powder. Baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate, while baking powder is made of baking soda, an acidic partner (usually cream of tartar) and other fillers like cornstarch. Baking soda is sometimes neutralized with an acid to get rid of the metallic taste of baking soda.<br />
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Best advice, if it's not properly formulated (like almost all DIY baking soda concoctions), do not use it!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02817661905103171138noreply@blogger.com0