Monday Masks : Timeless Truth Orchid Extract Replenishing Face Mask

I finally got the chance to use the Timeless Truth Orchid Extract Replenishing Face Mask from my March Edition of Vanity Trove. I tell you, I can even make small samples last forever... it was only last night that I managed to use finish my Premier Dead Sea moisturiser. I'm starting to think that even deluxe samples from beauty boxes are going to last me a good long while - worth the $$!

 

Anyway, you might've seen reviews of this mask on countless other beauty blogs, but here I am just to add in my 2 sen as well. ;) The orchid extract replenishing mask is a 3D mask (with hooks for your ears as well as around your chin) for full absorbtion. "The remarkable energy is in the root of the orchid, giving anti-ageing benefits, and leaving the skin beautifully soft and radiant", says Timeless Truth. The mask is suitable to be used for all skin types and is mainly beneficial for dry, lifeless and dull looking skin. The original price of one mask is RM10, which is really pricey, but I suppose it is a 3D mask, and those are often more expensive. I also have a voucher from Vanity Trove that gives me a 20% discount if I choose to buy more masks from them, so this will make the masks a tinge more affordable. =)

When I first took the mask out of the packet --- was not very happy because there is no additional plastic backing, so have to be quite careful when unfolding it, less I tear it. There is a generous amount of essence on the mask, so that was quite nice. Even better - it smelled really, really nice! It's a floral scent, but not cloying and overwhelming. In fact, it was soothing aromatherapy and very relaxing. I definitely enjoyed my session with the mask.

The fit however, was literally, quite a stretch! I find that the mask is a bit too small for the face - maybe my face has grown fatter as well. It was quite hard for me to get the hooks behind me ears, and when I did, this is what I look like : 

It looks so incredibly stretched out, right? Oh well, I supposed that's one way to ensure the mask adheres closely to the skin!! This meant that it was a teensy bit uncomfortable (especially the feeling that the hooks would snap off my ears at any moment -- but it didn't!), but thankfully nothing that I couldn't get over after a while.

After the 20 minutes session, I did find my skin was more moisturised and softened. In fact, the next morning when I was washing my face, I was wondering what night moisturiser I had on, coz my skin was so incredibly baby-soft smooth to the touch! Then I remembered that the only thing I did differently the night before was to use this mask. Such a great testimony for it, so I might consider this for repurchase later! It's a much better mask than all the other crap cheap masks I've been reviewing (Sasatinnie comes to mind!).

Orchid extracts are now the latest in beauty and skincare products due to anthocyanins in the flower that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities. Orchid extracts can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and respond to environmental stresses such as UV radiation, pollution and extreme temperatures.  It also has skin–fortifying minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc. I'm guessing we will see more products containing orchid extracts in the future! 

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Monday Masks : Guardian Caviar Face Mask

I have two pimples sprouting out on my chin. Based on studies, pimples around this area is usually hormonal, and not due to bad hygiene. Still, I panicked over the weekend and decided to pamper my face with a mask to help get things back to normal. As always, I've not been very disciplined with my mask application, and it's time like these (when skin condition is shite) that I start to become very diligent!

Based on my stash of sheet masks, I decided to use the Guardian Caviar Face Mask for my current condition, because it promises to nourish and treat delicate skin. Well, my skin is at a delicate condition now! :P Yes, it is a real drugstore brand - Guardian pharmacy's very own in-house manufactured sheet masks. Don't snub your nose at it, I find that sometimes in-house products are much better than cheap stuff you get from Sasa and so on. I bought this at a promotional price of RM7 for 2 or something like that. Look out for good deals like that in your local drugstore!

Packaging is a bit cheesy and nothing to shout about. The sheet mask though, is thick and comes with plastic backing. Already much better than those cheapo masks like Sasatinnie. -___- Was a bit doubtful about using a CAVIAR mask because I was afraid that it would smelly FISHY, but in fact it smelled STRONGLY of something like green tea. I know the green tea that you drink is generally erm... scentless. But this smells like a very strong kind of green tea perfume... floral and zen. Hahah. Quite nice, but got a bit too overpowering at the end.

Fit of the mask is really bad. Lots of gaps in the wrong places and loose at other places. Really look like a monster in the above picture. After pampering skin for 20 minutes, skin does feel softer and more moisturised. Pimple area is not as red, but noticed little white heads are popping out on my forehead the next day. Don't know if this is a "detoxifying" effect or what. Hope my skin condition is really not headed towards the shitter.

I still would give this mask one more chance (I have one more sheet!), cos I don't think the additional whiteheads are caused by the mask. Plus, I did really feel more refreshed and "nourished" after using the mask! Secret ingredients include caviar extract and grapeseed oil. Caviar extract is rich in vitamins A, D, B1, B2 and B6, which help to slow down the aging process whilst providing intense hydration to skin. Meanwhile, grapeseed oil contains linoleic acid that helps general skin improvement, including curing skin conditions like acne.

Of course, expect these to come in very very minute quantities in this face mask. :P

vitamins A, D, B1, B2, B6

vitamins A, D, B1, B2, B6

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Monday Masks : SexyLook Hello Kitty Rose Brightening Mask

I'm too old to be squealing over Hello Kitty, but some of my readers might be really interested in this kitty cat.. So here's my review of the SexyLook Hello Kitty Rose Brightening Mask! I got it in Singapore for about RM7++. Pretty expensive for a face mask (in my books), but if it works, why not, right?

The packaging is really pink and flowery... I don't know if you go for that kinda thing. Maybe it's supposed to look very cute and feminine, but to me it's kinda gaudy and reminds me of an old grandmother (don't ask me why!). Anyway, the SexyLook Hello Kitty Rose Brightening Mask provides intense hydration to help restore skin tone and refine skin texture. After using the brightening mask, you will have healthy and glowing skin. Wow, sounds promising!

The sheet mask itself is very thin, and there is a lot of essence inside the packet. This helps the sheet to adhere closely to the skin. It also ensures that there is enough essence, even for your neck and other body parts that you choose to massage the liquid in to.  Fit-wise, it is not the best I've ever had because there are clear gaps between my nose and my cheek. I think the mask is just not WIDE enough.

The smell of the mask is also not very enticing. It is pretty erm... harsh smelling. I would think that it would smell like ROSES since this is called a Rose Brightening Mask, right? Nothing floral at all! A bit disappointing, but at least it didn't give me a headache, like the Sasatinnie masks.

Interesting enough, rose oil (this is one of the ingredients) has a lot of health and dermalogical benefits for users. Other than being used in aromatherapy (it smells good, is an anti-depressant and aphrodisiac all-in-one!), rose oil is also anti-bacterial and helps regulate and balance hormone production. It is touted as one of the best oils which can give you shining, fresh and youthful skin.

After using this mask, my skin did feel more moisturised and some how more "brightened" and skin tone was also more evened out. Was satisfied with the outcome, but it was not so startling that it would show up in before / after images (hence no photo!). I do find it pricey though, especially since when other brightening masks I've used before gives me the same effect.

Probably not a repurchase, but if you're a Hello Kitty fan, this would probably be right up your alley.

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Monday Masks : Sasatinnie Aloe & Olive Deep Moist Silky Mask

Seriously wonder why I continue to use Sasatinnie masks when I'm really NOT having a good time at all. -__- I guess I keep thinking, "Maybe the next one will be better", and also, I hate wasting a mask, so might as well just use it! And at the moment, I'm trying to use up the whole set that I got and get it over with so I can go back to indulging in the high quality masks. One mask costs RM4.90 ORIGINAL price. I think I mentioned I got in on 50% off? Anyway, without further ado, here's my take on the Aloe & Olive Deep Moisturising Silky Mask. :)

This mask is suitable to be used by all skin types, especially for dull, dehydrated and tired skin that wants enhance moisturisation and nourishment. I don't really have much complaints about my skin nowadays, but who doesn't want to sparkle up their complexion? And I suppose staring at a computer all the time at work would make my skin dull and tired looking right? Sasatinnie claims to help you combat these complaints with magical organic aloe vera and olive extracts, plus further enhances things with hyaluronic acid. WebMD.com says : "There is also a lot of interest in using hyaluronic acid to prevent the effects of aging. In fact, hyaluronic acid has been promoted as a "fountain of youth." However, there is no evidence to support the claim that taking it by mouth or applying it to the skin can prevent changes associated with aging." Most of the time though, beauty companies use hyaluronic acid for its moisturising properties, so take the anti-aging bit with some salt. ;)

Aloe extracts will calm and soothe skin, while olive provides intensive moisture and improves skin radiance. The mask will provide you up to 24 hours of complete moisturisation. I don't know why I'm so batty to have mis-read it as ONE WEEK worth of complete moisturisation, so I was totally bummed when I still have to depend on my normal face moisturisers. :P

I would say that for a one-off use, yes, my skin felt SLIGHTLY better and more moisturised after the 20 minutes were up, but there was that HORRIBLE scent which I mentioned about in the last Sasatinnie mask I used still present here. It really makes me wonder if they just use the same thing and package it differently. -___- It smells like something from an industrial factory, very metallic smelling and sniffing it too long gives me a headache. So it was NOT an enjoyable nor relaxing experience for me at all.

Fit of the mask still has some ways to go... too many "tight gaps" here and there. Probably the only mask where I am 100% going to rinse off all the residue instead of massaging it deeper into my skin. I do NOT want a trace of that smelly liquid left on my visage! Grrr!

I guess you know it's not going to be a repurchase for me! And guess what? I still have one more mask left in my drawer from Sasatinnie.... *fainted* Since when did a weekly indulgence make one so apprehensive?

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Monday Masks : Daily Fresh Strawberry Yogurt Collagen Mask

Used this to pamper myself on my mini-staycation during the weekend. Decided not to bring along my cheapo mask, but this Daily Fresh Strawberry Yogurt Collagen Mask that I got from SOPS in Publika. I bought it erm... when the shop first opened. My husband saw all these masks on display and knowing that I like 'em, he encouraged me to buy it... even though "with promotion" it ended up being RM7+++. I forgot the exact price but I was feeling very wtf-ish about purchasing it especially since my personal cap is at RM5 per mask. I know, stingy, but this is DRUGSTORE beauty after all.

Ok, I guess I can live with RM7+++ per mask. They also have an argan oil hair care product there that is super good... almost RM90, and I'm STILL contemplating over whether I should get it or not. I have other haircare products to use!

Anyway, this Strawberry Yogurt Collagen Mask is suitable for all skin types, is a sheet-mask type (with no backing, so it was very hard to unfold - nearly tore the thing!) with 25ml of essence goodness inside. More than enough for you to rub all over your neck and wherever else you feel suitable! I also think the packaging is pretty cute, don't you think so?

This mask is supposed to help you get soft and moist skin. The yogurt yeast helps to remove keratin smoothly, while strawberry extracts helps to provide soft and smooth skin. After cleansing your face as usual, just leave this on for 10-20 minutes to allow skin to soak in all the goodness.

The fit of the mask is quite good! It is very WIDE but short, so there was more than enough to wrap around my face. The "hard to fit parts" was just that it didn't cover all of my forehead and the flap for the nose is just not long enough. Other than that, because it is very WIDE, there is no "tightness" and gaps.

I found a few online recipes for YEAST masks, and it seems that yeast is pretty efficient at healing the skin, especially from acne. There were also lots of online recipes for yogurt masks and it's the lactic acid in yogurt that helps smooth and exfoliate skin. Make sure to use a thick kind with active cultures for the ultimate beauty benefits. Yes, this Daily Fresh mask really smells like strawberry yogurt. Should I just buy the yogurt next time and get double benefit of good skin and eating it after I've done applying it topically to my skin? ^^

I've also mentioned before in previous entries that strawberry oil / extract is frequently used in beauty products to moisturise the skin. High in vitamin A&C and anti-oxidants, strawberry oil also contains anti-bacterial properties that makes it beneficial for taming irritated skin.

After the 20+ minutes were up, I definitely felt that my skin was softer and more moisturised! Definitely good quality stuff... in fact, 2 days after using it, my skin still feels nice and soft! Oh, and the essence in this Daily Fresh mask is a bit sticky / slimy to touch. Some masks feel like it's just soaked with water... this is definitely not as "diluted".  Really enjoyed my first trial run with Daily Fresh. I have two more masks from them, and if the standard keeps up, a repurchase is in the future!

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Monday Masks : Sasatinnie Platinum White Truffle Brightening Silky Mask

What to do when you're stuck in your condo the whole day because it's not advisable to go out because of the dreadful HAZE? And yet you know the HAZE had not really been doing your skin any favors from Monday - Friday when you had to WORK?

Well, try to make the best of the situation by doing some skin-pampering by applying a mask, of course! I ransacked my drawer of masks to find one that would suitably COMBAT the effects of the dusty, smokey environment. In the end, I decided on Sasatinnie's Platinum White Truffle BRIGHTENING silky mask. The benefits of the mask include brightening and improving skin tone and giving you radiant skin. Brilliant! Plus, it sounds absolutely luxurious, doesn't it?

 

As always, the packaging is nothing to shout about. (The price is though - think I mentioned before that I got this for about RM4 or cheaper? Can't remember... damn! You can check out Sasa whenever they have their sales!). The product claims that PLATINUM is used to delay skin aging by enhancing the absorption power of the skin. Skin pigmentation is improved with the use of arbutin, ECO Gigawhite, ECO  licorice extracts and mulberry extracts. Skin will be whitened and brightened and have an overall improvement in skintone. This mask is suitable to be used by all types of skin and by all ages. 

Well, the last part (about skin whitening) features items that I frequently read about in whitening products, so I'm not too concerned about that. Especially arbutin - it's basically the #1 ingredient being boasted by Hada Labo. I'm really doubtful about using PLATINUM in a sheet mask, I really wonder how they *really* incorporate that into a flimsy sheet mask! Then again, this is really cheap stuff, so I should just be grateful if it doesn't make me break out. -__-" 

Like before, it isn't a really good fit, not enough mask to wrap around the nose properly, and a lot of weird folds here and there. I always just chalk it up to me not having the "ideal" Korean / Japanese face (depending on where the product originated from!). The one thing that I noticed immediately when I put this mask on was the scent. It was very.... sharp. And it smelled like some cleaning agent of some sort. You know, something you would use to scrub tiles. It was not that strong at first, but became stronger and stronger til at the checkpoint of 15minutes.... I almost felt like passing out! It really made me feel really dizzy and giddy. Blehk.

Skinwise, my skin felt a little more moisturised, but not really evened / brightened in particular. That week *did* see general improvement in my skin though, like I had a really bad leftover pimple mark on my cheek and it did fade quite a bit. However, don't know if it was just a good skin week or if this helped. Regardless, the scent and fit is so bad that this is definitely NOT a repurchase for me. And very very very scared of using the rest of my Sasatinnie stash! :X

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Monday Masks : Watsons Revitalising Facial Mask with Rose Water

I have a confession to make --- all the previous Monday Masks entries were really backdated from yonks ago when I was diligently applying masks. :) Nowadays, it's becoming a bit of a luxury to sit around with a dripping mask on my face and just relax. I try to get by with my Pores Be Pure and Hello Kitty Gommage, but those are really specific (one for pore sanctifying, one for exfoliation), sometimes a girl wants other things. Like a super dosage of moisturisation, evening out your skin tone, or oil control. In retrospect, I should've chosen something for evening out my skin tone because I've gotten a few pimple scars.. :( Instead, I used the Watsons Revitalising Facial Mask with Rose Water.

This mask is enriched with natural plant extracts and premium rose water to help revitalise, rehydrate and moisturise your face. After opening the packaging, you're greeted with the sweetest, rose smell. Ok, it may not smell very authentic, but it's really pleasant and nice. Guaranteed to not bug you when you have it on your face for the next 15-30 minutes.

As before, the mask is very thick and not a very good fit. However, it did leave my skin feeling rather moisturised, although not baby soft. I suppose this is better as a "aromatherapy" kind of session. Also, don't know how they do it, but the mask felt REALLY cold against my skin, and I didn't need to put it in the fridge for the added kick. I didn't even have the air-conditioning on! It felt really nice since it's been so hot for the last coupla days (weeks? months?).

Not a repurchase for me because I didn't find it helpful. Liked the scent though, and will definitely check out what other masks Watsons has to offer. :)

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Monday Masks : Dermal Royal Jelly Collagen Sheet Mask

This is the last of my Dermal collection in my stash, but due to the attractive promotions that they usually have for this brand in Watsons Singapore, I might get them again IF I visit the neighbouring country again. =) Out of the 5 masks that I've used, I've liked MOST of them, especially the apricot and apple one. This royal jelly one that I used wasn't as memorable (maybe because it has not much of a scent), but as always, I always feel my skin is more moisturised and pampered after a session with the mask. ^^

The function for this royal jelly mask is for feeding nutrition to the skin, moisturising and refining. You often hear about people eating royal jelly for beautiful skin, but I really wonder how good is it just applied directly to the skin? Royal jelly has strong antibacterial properties that is used in a multitude of beauty products. Royal jelly has strong healing properties that is thought to help reverse the process of aging by improving the texture and tone of the skin. Royal jelly also has highly moisturising properties that help tighten fine lines and wrinkles, leaving skin feeling soft and supple.

Sounds exciting, doesn't it? Apparently the Egyptians have been in on the secrets of royal jelly for a very long time. Using this secret product to protect their skin against the harsh desert conditions. Well, Malaysia isn't really a desert, but it's still very hot here, and anything to reverse time and get back younger-looking skin, right?

 The mask is really thick and is not a super good fit, but with just RM3 per mask, I am more than pleased with the results. Looking forward to a new haul from Dermal next round! ^^

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Monday Masks : Simply Beauty Spanish Rosemary Clear White Silky Mask

What a pretty looking mask from the "A Kiss From Flora" range from Simply Beauty. They have a lot of floral extract facial masks under the "A Kiss From Flora" range, and the Spanish Rosemary clear white silky mask is the second one that I've tried. The first one is the Greece Carnation one that I've reviewed previously. I like how they had to find the plants from far-flung countries, lol. Like, normal English Rosemary won't do... it has to be Spanish Rosemary!

The mask contains 24ml of essence, and is used for brightening, oil balancing and pore minimising.  "Rosemary extract is supposed to offer toning, astringency, increased blood circulation, as well as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-microbial features. It inhibits oxidative cell damage, and it can be added to our products to increase the shelf life. Finally, there is some suggestion rosemary extract might be anti-aging by offering a decrease in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles." [ Source : Point Of Interest]

 

The sheet is very thin and soaks up a lot of the essence. It  adheres strongly to the skin and is a pretty good fit, although there are a bit of gaps here and there. I decided to use the rosemary brightening / whitening mask because I had been out in the sun a lot that day, so I thought this could counteract the damages of the day. 

On the upside - I didn't have any sun damage and it helped calm my skin down. Very soothing and relaxing. However, I didn't see any PORE MINIMISING, but I guess it's a long shot with this mask. The stinging feeling I felt with the Greece Carnation was also prevalent here, so I guess this is the end of my experiments with Simply Beauty products. I do NOT like the sensation of my skin burning! If you're interested to try out the A Kiss From Flora series, I believe you can get a mask from Watsons for about RM6 (thereabouts). Good luck!

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Monday Masks : Sasatinnie Anti-oxidant Regenerating Face Mask

Grabbed a bunch of these Sasatinnie masks when I was in Sasa when they were having big sales. Four masks for about RM10!! Super cheap please. Even though I had not tried it before, I just grabbed the requisite 4 masks. The first one that I tried was the Sasatinnie Anti-oxidant Regenerating face mask.

The packaging is nothing to shout about, but pretty straight to the point, haha. As you can see, the mask contains clove extract, loquat leaf extract, pearl protein extract, hylauronic acid, collagen and honey suckle flower extract. When I saw "clove extract" I was thinking that this would be a pretty funky smelling mask, but in the end there's really not much of a smell to this thing. Just smells normal, face cleanser kinda smell. There's no plastic sheet for the face mask, the sheet mask is just folded together and soaked in the essence, so it was pretty hard to unfold.  Still, in the end, the mask ended up to be a pretty good fit.

Sasatinnie states that the clove extract and pearl protein extract has excellent antioxidant properties, while promoting cell activation and lightening pigmentation spots. Loquat leaf and honeysuckle flower extract have anti-aging properties as well as healing and astringent properties. As for hyluronic acid and collagen - those are typically used for moisturisation and firming. It really does sound promising, doesn't it?

Sadly, no discernable effect after using the mask, but then again, it really didn't promise me anything. It didn't even feel relatively softer or more moisturised than before the mask. Really hoping the rests of my Sasatinnie masks do a better job, otherwise I might as well just soak a piece of tissue in water and put it on my face for 10 minutes.

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Monday Masks : My Melody Lavender & Lemongrass Brightened Mask

Yay! Back to Monday Masks! This is a really belated edition, cos this was a mask I used during the aforementioned Singapore trip (refer to my previous haul post!). Yes, I've got a whole backlog of stuff to blog about! Apologies in advance for the quality of the photos to follow, cos I took the pics in the hotel room, and they have the dimmest, yellow-est lights ever. Plus, didn't want to use too much flash cos my husband was sleeping already!

This round, I'll be reviewing the My Melody Lavender & Lemongrass Brightened Mask. Nope, there's no spelling error, it is "Brightened Mask" and not "Brightening Mask". =) Once again, my shallowness rears its ugly head and I bought something "for the cute factor" and not because it's a super good brand or whatever. I bought the mask in Singapore, but converted, it's around RM7-RM8, which is on the pricier end of masks for me!

Cute? Of course no point having nice packaging la, it's the contents that matter, right? I chose this because lavender and lemongrass sounds so soothing... it's like aromatherapy! It's so typical of what you might find in a spa, right? The My Melody masks actually boasts of having "double the ingredients", with lavender and lemongrass to soothe and firm the skin, while ginseng & ginger will rejuvenate the skin whilst promoting blood circulation.

Some additional skin benefits of lavender - it has antiseptic and anti-fungal properties, which means the chances of experiencing acne breakouts and infections are lessened. It also reduces scarring and speeds up healing. Maybe if you like this mask a lot, you should think about investing in lavender oil specially made for your skin! Lavender is also anti-inflammatory, so it reduces redness and blotchiness. Hence the more "even" appearance of your skintone. I think this is what makes the mask "brightening"!

I think I've mentioned about the benefits of lemongrass for the skin, but it is somewhat similar to lavender - it also contains anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties that help ward off skin infections. Not to mention, I think lemongrass smells awesomeeeeee.

The benefits of ginseng on the skin are more iffy --- most of the things I've read up on mention that it should be consumed, not applied on the skin. As for ginger oil, mainly used for aromatherapy, and in fact is really suggested not to apply on the skin because it may cause irritation in sensitive skin!

The fit of the mask is excellent, and I love how the mask adheres tightly to my face. Though it is a very thin "breathable" sheet, it can soak up a lot of essence, which is what helps it adhere so well to the skin! Recommended to leave this on for 15-20 minutes, and best effects are seen if you use this mask 2-3 times a week! Madness... use one time and enjoy it fully, hahaha. I also don't have time to treat myself to 2-3 masks a week. Though I did read one gal who said she uses 7 masks a week. Yes, everyday also got mask!

That went a bit off topic, but I just want to say that unlike other "brightening" masks, this one didn't sting, and it really smelled NICE! I really enjoyed myself while I was wearing the mask, and thought that I won't mind so much if I don't see a "brightening" effect, cos I already felt my skin was pampered and moisturised. =)

Although I don't have any "Before" pictures, I was truly surprised IRL when I took off the mask because my skin was really visibly brightened! It was such a shock that I had to take another photo. Anyway, the mask also helped moisturised and softened my skin, so I don't really mind the non-brightening, haha. I also think it soothed away tiny little spots that I have on my forehead. Quite like this mask! Maybe I should pick up a few extra sheets next time... =)

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Monday Masks : Little Twin Stars x Sophie Monk Pomegranate Pearl Deep Whitening Mask (2 Step Whitening Mask)

Something I bought in Singapore due to the "cute factor" in the packaging - Little Twin Stars x Sophie Monk Pomegranate Pearl Deep Whitening Mask. I remember that the price after conversion is nearly RM10. RM10 for a mask?! I flipped, but consoled myself with the fact that it is a two-step mask. After the normal sheet mask application, there is some additional whitening essence thingamajig to apply. Did I mention that I am "against" whitening masks? And yet I seem to keep using it? I distinctly remember that I had no choice - I really wanted to try the Little Twin Stars mask, but this was the only one available at that time.

The Little Twin Stars mask was a pretty good fit --- it could extend to the sides of my face, but I guess it was a bit of a tight fit cos there's air pockets between my nose and near my cheeks. Actually, I kinda blame that on the fact that I tried to smile for the picture, haha. I always try to smile in the photo but it always comes out glum as anything. Take note, I'm actually happy! The mask is very thin, but strong. It contains the essence well and without any wastage (dripping).

 

After the mask, I was actually shocked  to see that my face is actually VISIBLY brighter. It was shocking! I really felt like I had bleached my face. Unlike other whitening masks that feel stinging against my face, I did not encounter the same with Little Twin Stars, which was a really pleasant surprise! I wish that I had a better before / after picture for comparison, but I stupidly took the before pics under yellow lighting. Of course I look "whiter" in comparison. -_-" My skintone was more evened out, and face felt smooth, soft and pampered.

Then on to the 2nd step! I squeezed out what was in the upper portion of the mask sachet, and it looks like this :

Basically, just apply it like a night cream and that's it! It's not a mask, need not wash it off. Wake up the next day feeling baby soft skin on the face. A real treat for my face! But at such an "amazing" price, I don't know if I could bear to buy another one. Then again, it really works...

I think I've mentioned before on how pearls are said to be beneficial for our skin, but how about pomegranates? Pomegranates are known throughout history for being a "miracle" fruit and plays an important part in Greek mythology as well. The fruit is filled with antioxidants and people have found that applying pomegranate oil really helps in healing your skin faster. How this helps in deep whitening, I am not sure! All the instructions and descriptions were in Japanese, so I was unable to decipher it for you all..

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Monday Masks : Montagne Jeunesse Crushed Raspberry Fruit Smoothie Deep Pore Cleansing Masque

Haven't used "spread masks" for a long time, but I took this along with me to Bangkok last month. "Spread masks" or pastes are so much more worth it if you want to indulge with a daily mask during your holiday. This small trial pack was able to sustain me for two days. Yes, I was desperate to rid myself of the pimple that had also came out to enjoy itself during MY holiday, so I "fed" it with a lot of nutritious masks. Hehehe.

Got the Montagne Jeunesse Crushed Raspberry Fruit Smoothie Deep Pore Cleansing Masque from my Vanity Trove x Watsons beauty box. Used it for two nights while I was on holiday, a real treat after my face was subjected to a whole day's activities, whether walking around in shopping malls or on the streets in the hot sun. Yes, only 5g and it can last me for at least 2 times! If I was stingier, I could've stretched it to a 3rd day, but I really wanted to pamper my skin, so I slathered it on.

Well one thing I really have to applaud this product for ---- it really smells awesome! It is the fruitiest, yummiest smelling mask ever! It is not sickeningly overwhelming, but it is a pretty strong scent that you will be enjoying for however long you will be using this mask. It feels nice and cooling against your skin, and when you wash it off after 10-15 minutes (you will have to wash it off, it doesn't dry up, and it's not a peel-off mask), your skin will be left feeling soooooooooo soft. It did feel refreshing, but don't know whether it's because you will always feel refreshed after washing off a mask (some kind of psychological thing) or if I just enjoyed the aromatherapy so much. Anyhoo, it was really a great treat for the skin.

Montagne Jeunesse says : "Bursting with healthy goodness, our thick smoothie treat of Raspberry, Mango, Apricot, Peach & Pomegranate isn't a drink but it is bound to leave you in a smiley mood - with fresher, cleansed and softer skin!" 

However, I didn't particularly get a super "deep pore cleansing" feeling from it. Ah, you win some, you lose some. I think for the price you pay, this is super worth it. I don't know the exact price of THIS mask, but I've bought MJ masks before, and they are about RM6 for a full-size sachet that is 20g. All in all, a lovely experience, and would make this a definite repurchase! I just love MJ masks! :)

And just for sharing's sake, here are a few random photos from my trip in Thailand. Actually, just from 1-2 days worth, when I was trawling Chatuchak, Platinum Fashion Mall, etc, obviously wasn't whipping my camera out! Oh yeah, maybe I'll share some of my fashion purchases another day too! I was pleased as anything when I found out that a dress that I bought for THB200 is being sold on Zalora for RM70. And that was AFTER the discount! Madness...

 

Sigh, see the pimple on my forehead! Anyway, I am happy with my new peach scalloped top from Kitschen and grey cardigan from Cotton On. Cotton On cardies are sooooooo versatile and comfy, it's now my most loved cardigan! :)

 

Photobombing stingray at the sea world... my new FB profile picture, hahaha.

 

Madam Tussaud's Thailand... with the Queen! :) 

 

Terminal 21! My new favorite mall in Thailand! :) And I'm wearing a top that I bought for THB100 at Asiatique. That place is so expensive please! But amazingly, the most expensive place was where I bought my cheapest purchase, hahaha. 

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Monday Masks : LoveMore Alps Spring & Phytoncide Moisturisng Mask

Welcome to Monday Masks! I think I've discovered which mask shape is the best shape ever in LoveMore's masks! To me, if the mask is wider than it is long, it is the most suitable shape... cos then it can really wrap round your face! There won't be "air pockets" (caused by the mask unable to mold around the shape of your nose) and although the mask seems wide, you have no worries that it will extend until it reaches your hair. :) The LoveMore mask that I'm reviewing today is from their travel series --- all the masks come individually packaged in cute little pouches that look like air mail. Their packaging is always top-notch!

 

The mask that I am trying on for this review is the Swiss Alps series for moisturising skin. It contains alps spring & phytoncide and is suitable for all skin types. You must be wondering -- what is phytoncide? I got a very generic explanation that phytoncide basically just means plant extracts. Not sure what plants they are, but LoveMore says it helps improve skin problems such as eczema, tinea versicola and other skin infections. This mask also contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin and leave it feeling smoother and refreshed.

Not sure how Swiss Alps springs are beneficial to the skin, but probably it's just to give the consumer a general feeling of relaxation and cooling properties. This mask did indeed feel cool and refreshing against my skin!

Maybe it's psychological, but not only did the Swiss Alps mask feel cool against my skin, it also SMELLED minty and refreshing. It was probably one of the nicer smelling masks that I've had in a long while. It really helps to calm your thoughts and indulge in the whole "masking experience". As you can see from the picture above, the quality of the mask is also really good. Thick and quilted sheets, which really do not tear easily. It easily absorbed the essence in the package, and because it is so absorbent, the essence didn't drip out, but rests comfortably on the face.

Way to bring up the standards, LoveMore!

But how about the effects? Did it work? Well, my skin did feel softer, smoother and more moisturised after I was done. I think I even look fairer / skintone was more evened out. Check out the pictures below :

 

Would I repurchase? I'm really tempted to, it's superb quality! However, at RM7 per mask, or RM30 per box, it is pricier than average. I'm headed to Singapore soon, so might pick up another box or two when I'm down South. ;)

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Monday Masks : SexyLook Intensive Moisturising Black Cotton Mask

Hey all! Merry Christmas! Hope you're all in the holiday mood. For me, I'm definitely in the holiday spirit as I've been on holiday the past few days (yes, I've turned over a hardworking leaf, and I'm schedulling posts even when I'm away now!). It hasn't been very relaxing though because I've been muthatrucking tramping up and down the streets of Bangkok. I thought I would've lost massive amount of weight by the time I come back to KL, but it seems like I've gained even more, wtf? My ideal weight goal is looking damn damn far off... *pissed off Leech*

On a good note, I've had time to review even more stuff and despite my own restraining order, I've got even more haul posts to publish! My husband said that the shelves are actually warped from carrying the weight of so many beauty products. *guilty* At first, I was a very hardworking reviewer in Thailand, trying out new make-up, new creams... but then I had an awful break-out, which I've never gotten before for so long. It's like taunting me... I'm on holiday and I can't have nice pics of myself! Really brings my mood down. Never mind, it's Christmas! Gotta cheer myself out though I am now fat and have bad skin. Seriously fat, ok! I've never weighed this much IN MY LIFE.

Well, now for the review. This was from my Penang trip early this month --- I don't know why, when I'm on holiday, my skin gets really dry. I don't know if it's because of the trip there (car air-conditioning? Aeroplane environment?) or what... but I will get my dry-skin syndrome. Since I'm already saddled with extra weight and pimples, I didn't get dry skin this round. :-) Small consolation, I just grab it. Anyway, since I was having dry skin, I decided to use my SexyLook Intensive Moisturising Black Cotton Mask. It was free with the Vanity Trove x Watsons box I got. :)

I first read about this mask on Xiaxue's blog, and if I'm not mistaken, one single sheet is quite expensive already. Like RM8-RM10? I am glad that I got it for free! Hehehe...

What is "Black Cotton", I hear you asking. Well, it's apparently cotton fibers with activated carbon fibers meshed together. Carbon is used because it helps to absorb dirt, excessive sebum, and refine pores. The mask says that it will help rehydrate and repair skin, leaving you with a natural, glowing complexion. The mask is also rich in vitamins, anti-oxidants, ocean nurtured black pearl --- all which will help to moisturise your skin, leaving you with pearl-like radiance. Interesting.. using pearl to give you a pearl-like appearance. Why not diamonds so that I can sparkle like a diamond too? Don't need to answer rhetorical questions, btw. ;)

Well, one thing is for sure.. the mask is of REALLY good quality, putting to shame all the cheapo masks that I've been using so far. It's thin, soft & silky,  able to absorb and retain a lot of essence, and stretchable! Except for the gaping large eye holes (maybe i didn't position the mask *that* well), I think it's a pretty good fit. However, I definitely did not look as sexy as the girl on the mask packaging. I look more like I'm ready to rob someone's house.

She's climbin in your windows
She's snatchin your people up

However, the mask was really a nice fit, it smelled pleasant enough (but can't remember of WHAT, just that it smelled really nice!) and it felt oh-so-soft against my skin. I fell asleep while I was wearing it! I don't know how long I slept off for, but I woke up with a jolt when I heard my sister coming in to the hotel room (they had gone for swimming... I had gone for a "pampering nap"!). I didn't want her to walk in and shriek, seeing me with my mask on! :) No matter how long I had been asleep (definitely longer than the recommended time to have the mask on!), the mask was still super wet and cold against my skin. :S

When I washed everything off, my skin did indeed feel very moisturised and silky-smooth as well. There was not even a bit of grimy black stuff on my face, so rest assured that the mask was not just merely dyed black in color! Hahaha...

Not sure whether I would repurchase because it's really above-average drugstore prices. Maybe if they have promotions / boxsets? Anyway, I'm starting to be more keen on "spread masks" already. :)

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Monday Masks : My Beauty Diary Chocolate Truffle Sheet Mask

The My Beauty Diary Chocolate Truffle Sheet Mask was part of the Sweet Tea-Time Set that I bought a long time back. Yes, it is really a long time back! I had trouble searching for the original post! Well, it was such a cute set that I just couldn't bear to use it, and if you see my earlier posts, I was all about using my cheapie masks first. Cannot bear to use the special one! Hahahaha. The original set comes with the Chocolate Truffle mask and Earl Grey Tea with Macaron mask. Now *that* sounds super exotic. I don't think I would be able to find anything if I Google "how will putting macarons on my face benefit my skin".

Very sweet packaging, but nothing special really. Too girly girly for me. As the packet says - the Chocolate Truffle sheet mask is for moisturizing & softening the face. 20 minutes of indulgence - set. :) 

This is a really horrible picture of me (hair like beggar by the roadside), but I was truly enjoying myself. Hahaha. The chocolate truffle mask smells SOOOOOOOOO nice. Really yummy! I was afraid it would smell like cheapo chocolate that makes me sick, but no! This smells like a really decadent choco dessert in a 5-star hotel. The sheet mask is also really thin, but strong. Really has a lot of essence soaked in. The fit is not super good (I just used a SUPER GOOD FIT mask recently that makes me think that all those that I have said are good previously are just BS), but good enough to cover what's necessary-lah.

The after-effects? Face really does feel more moisturised and baby soft. Don't know what magic they put into it, but obviously the "chocolate truffle" is just the scent. I have no idea what magic ingredients they put in. Just know that it works! ^^

I'm really a My Beauty Diary fan, and in fact, I have just repurchased a whole box more of their masks. Must take good care of the skin, yo. :)

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Monday Masks : Simply Beauty Greece Carnation Silky Mask

Haven't been using sheet masks a lot because I'm now busy trying to finish my awesome Formula 10.0.6 mask (scroll further down to find the review!)... plus I have a lot of old entries that I haven't finished reviewing! This mask was actually used when I was... *drumroll* getting ready for my wedding! That was... months ago. My friend told me that one week before her annual dinner, she used one sheet mask daily. I was thinking... so much effort just for annual dinner? Then for wedding dinner I should use one mask a day for TWO weeks, right? Anyway, in the end I just went for a (very good) facial, and used a few sheet masks. Honestly, it didn't make that much of a difference, but at least I didn't have a ginormous zit on my nose or something terrifying like that.

I used this sheet mask from Simply Beauty called "Greece Carnation". This is from their "A Kiss From Flora" series, and you can see all these beautiful, flowery sheet masks on display in any Watsons / Guardian pharmacy. The flowers look so inviting, like what is within is actually seeds for growing the flowers, and not something that contains the flower essence, to be smeared onto your face. =p I was spoiled for choice, but in the end decided on the Greece Carnation one because it was supposed to be for nourishing purposes. Other flowers have different benefits, like whitening, moisturising and so on. 

The sheet mask is very thin and there is a LOT of essence in the packet, so everything really sticks to your face properly. As you can see from the picture above, it is a pretty good fit. What I didn't like was how STINGING this felt on my skin. I would understand it if this was a whitening mask, and there are "natural acids" to exfoliate my skin. However, this is a NOURISHING mask. My face expected to be pampered and feeling all comfy. Instead, felt like screaming down the streets of Subang and tearing the mask off my face.

Of course, I didn't do that. But I only kept it on for the bare minimum of time advised on the packaging. Usually, I let everything soak in properly, enjoying the aromatherapy. This has not much of a memorable scent, so kind of a disappointment in that area too.

The product claims to enhance skin elasticity, fight wrinkles and brightens the skin. Hmm... I didn't really feel that it benefited me in any of those area. My skin felt extra clean and more moisturised after using the sheet mask, but that's about it, lol. Looking at the ingredients list, I see hyluronic acid which would explain why it was so stinging for me. It's probably to exfoliate the upper layer of the skin, which could contain dead skin cells, thus creating a "brighter" visage. I think they should tone it down a bit, cos it was really painful for me. Maybe I just have very exfoliated skin already? :P

Looking up on carnation oil, it contains anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it ideal for treating eczema , rashes and rosacea. It is also said to reduce wrinkles!! However, it didn't mention whether it should specifically be a Greece carnation. Apparently all carnations contain these benefits.

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Monday Masks : Formula 10.0.6 Pores Be Pure Skin Clarifying Mask

Let me introduce you to two special additions to my skincare routine. Trying to use these fellers at least twice a week, but I keep forgetting. I've shifted them from some darkened corner of the toilet to the display right by the sink so that I won't forget. Check it out:

I will definitely review both when the time comes, but today, I want to talk about Formula 10.0.6's Pores Be Pure Skin-Clarifying mud mask. I think I've mentioned before that I bought this when I was in Singapore, under Ben's recommendation. Well, it was actually Abby that recommended it to Ben, who then recommended it to me because he knows I'm mad about stuff like this. I would also like to think that with my curiosity and love for the simple packaging (all fonts printed all over, nothing cutesy -- but really attention grabbing IMHO), I would have bought it sooner or later ANYWAY.

Well, Ben knows about my hatred for blackheads and my complaints about dirty pores, and he said that Abby swears by the stuff. I'm not really keen on "spread masks" as they term it, much prefering the simpler "sheet masks". After using this mask, I'm getting more keen on spread masks because :
:: in fact, you have spread masks on for a shorter amount of time compared to sheet masks
:: more economical by far... I've been using the spread masks for such a long amount of time --- and during that period I would probably have spend 10x the amount if I were to use sheet masks twice a week!
:: more effective --- especially when you're a cheapo like me who buys 3 for RM10 sheet masks that are very dubious

It's quite easy to use, just start off with a dry face :

Squeeze out just a small amount ... spread it thinly over your face. To be honest, the smell is not that fantastic. Smells a bit too herbal for me. It also doesn't look very appetising when squeezed out from the tube. Despite containing STRAWBERRIES, it doesn't really smell much of the fruit. Have to remind myself that it's a "mud mask", so this is what I should expect in the first place.

When I apply it on my skin, I get a pretty tingly feeling, the same feeling I get when I apply "natural whitening" creams that actually contain natural acids to exfoliate the skin. Well, this product claims to contain  "berry boosters" that "go straight to clear out clogged pores". I think I've blogged before about the goodness of strawberries for the skin - strawberry oils contain anti-oxidants, anti-bacterial properties and high amounts of vitamin A & C. Hey, the fruit doesn't only taste good, you can smear it on your skin too. ;)

Rosemary is also one of the major ingredients, and is used for toning and "lifting" sagging skin. Hmmm... a facelift in a bottle? I was merely looking for something that would clear out my pores!

Finally, we have yarrow -- what I suspect causes this mask to smell oh-so-herbal. This traditional ingredient is used to improve skin conditions such as rashes and abrasions. Generally, just to calm inflamed skin. All in all, it sounds like a product to soothe sensitive skin rather than to clear out the pores. However, after I rinse off the mask, I am always left with baby soft skin that feels squeaky clean and clear! I love this mask! Thank you Ben (and Abby) for the recommendation!

The mask dries off to a clear finish --- I had a photo of it, but my laptop was being a bitch and hung on me when I was transferring the photos. They are lost, but no biggie. :\ Oh, there's a slight "tightening" effect when the mask dries off... like when you apply an egg white mask. Quite nice... another "uplifting" side of the mask!

Forgot how much I paid for it, but it's not too pricey. Really looking forward to checking out more Formula 10.0.6 stuff the next time I visit Singapore!

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Monday Masks : Dermal Kiwi Collagen Sheet Mask

As far as cheap masks go, I really do like the Dermal series. I always feel really moisturised after using the sheet mask and the fit is really good! Must remind myself to grab more the next time I'm in Watsons Singapore! Sure, not all of them are super good like the South of France Apricot (or something like that) mask from My Beauty Diary, which is like, my ultimate fave sheet mask ever.

The Kiwi Collagen sheet mask from Dermal is not bad ... but rather unmemorable. I expected more of it, expecting it to be more fruity, but there really wasn't much of a smell. Nothing much to say after 4 similar reviews on the Dermal series, so far, I only really like the apple collagen mask and the apricot one.

The kiwi collagen mask is suitable for all skin types and  is touted to make your tired skin more elastic, mositurised and clear. It is a mild mask for brightening and nutrition.  Whenever there is "brightening" the mask stings! It made me think that there must be some bleaching ingredient of some sort. But then I found out that when there's vitamin C in the sheet mask, vitamin C contains natural acids that will exfoliate your skin. This is why some people say their skin "glows" or "feels smoother" after the mask! Aside from the high vitamin C content, I tried to search for benefits of kiwi fruit for your skin... and it generally says that you eat the fruit. Not sure if it works when you just lay it on your face. -_-" Kiwi fruit contains high amounts of vitamin E & vitamin C and antioxidants that will help slow down the aging process.

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