April Favorites

Aww..April is almost over. It has been a very fun and adventurous month! But still, I'm looking forward to what is in store for me for the month of MAY. :) 

April is my beach month! I've traveled way up north and south to experience the beauty of the Philippine scenery. Most of these products I carried along  while the others helped me get ready to hit the beach! Here are my April favorites! 

BODY

The Body Shop Strawberry 
Body Butter

Before I go to bed, I slather this sweet smelling body butter all over my body to help regain moisture. It has a thicker consistency unlike most lotion. I advise using this at night than during the day because of its consistency. 

It has twice as more moisture than most regular lotion. :) I just love love love the scent!!! 

The Body Shop Strawberry Shower Gel

I wouldn't have survived my summer without this! It's a perfect go-to product fit for travelling because of its size and functionality. 

It comes in a small travel-size bottle. It smells really really good! Even guys love it too! After a long hot day at the beach, you just want to treat yourself to a cold shower. You can squeeze a good amount of product on your palm and it can go a long way. It leaves your skin feeling clean, soft, smooth, and smelling great!! 

The Body Shop Strawberry Body Polish

I consider this as my everyday exfoliant. It's mild and gentle on the skin. It has crushed walnut shells and kiwi seeds to help in the exfoliation process. 

After bathing under the sun, I use this to remove excess dirt and dead skin build up from my body. This also helps prevent uneven patches on my skin caused by sun-exposure. 

Body Recipe Lemongrass Foot Scrub

My feet tend to be dry during the summer and I need something to help soften them up. This is a great foot scrub. It smells like lemongrass and it has apricot seeds to help exfoliate dead skin. 

I get a coin-sized amount on my fingertips and apply it gently over my clean dry feet. I rub and massage it all over my foot until it turns dry. I rinse it with water and pat it dry! I pair it with my Foot Treats Moisturizing Foot Spray. Instant foot spa! 






FACE

St. Ives Apricot Scrub

While I was at the grocery, I was looking for a travel-size facial scrub and I saw this and bought it right away. 

It's very compact and I've tried this product before. So no worries for me. :) 

It really helped even out my skin tone due to my frequent trips to the beach. It helped control the build-up of sun spots on my face. 

It smells great! It has a coarse texture and doesn't foam up well. You might need to use a facial wash to really cleanse your face. 

The Body Shop Vitamin E Nourishing Night Cream 

I love this night cream! It has a thick consistency and very moisturizing! It has a scent but not too overwhelming. 

It helps repair my skin while I sleep and helps regain moisture loss from sun exposure. 




HAIR

Human Heart Nature 100% Natural Conditioner in Lush Vanilla

I love to try new products! It is my first time to try a hair product from Human Nature. :) 

It comes in a big pump bottle. It has a thicker consistency than most conditioner. It really smells like vanilla! 

The scent stays for awhile and works well with my Gugo shampoo. :) 

Something to look forward to: Can't Live Without Products

Check my previous post: What to Bring on a Camping Trip

I want to hear from you. Leave a comment below. :) 

What to Bring on a Beach Camping Trip

Taken from http://www.flickr.com/photos/chaxdaman/8152608425/

Beach camping is quite fun! It's an affordable vacation getaway for you and your adventurous friends! But, you should come prepared for this is a totally different experience (not your typical hotel accommodation). 

You should be equipped with the following: 

1. Clothes
Of course you need clean clothes! Bring clothes that are light-weight and inexpensive preferably quick dry ones. Plan your outfits ahead as not to bring a trunk-load of clothes you don't need! 

Don't forget your swimsuit! :) Btw, make sure your clothes are packed in zip lock bags or any plastic to prevent them from getting wet on boat trips. Or place them on a waterproof bag instead. You don't want to wear wet clothes!

2. Snacks and Water
Food is not always available on an island. Food sold on the beach itself can be expensive! Might as well bring some munchies while waiting for dinner to be served. Release the air on the package for easy storage or transfer the contents in a resealable plastic.  

Yes, water water and more water! Drinking water is very expensive! You need to be hydrated at all times. Keep a bottle of water handy. 

3. Flash Light
Moonlight is all we have on an island. Keep a flash light on your pocket or neck to help guide your way towards dark path. You might be stepping on something or sleeping in a different tent! Bring extra batteries too! 

4. Sleeping bag or mats
As you pitch in your tent, you need something clean to sit/sleep on. I prefer bringing a beach blanket: quick-dry, allergen free, and sand repelling. It can be easily packed in your bag unlike sleeping bags. 

I recommend Lagu Beach Blankets! :) 

Taken from http://www.hollyjean.sg/2012/08/life-on-sands-lagu-beach-blanket-review.html

5. Mess Kits
A mess kit is a collection of silverware and cookware used during camping and backpacking (Source: Wikipedia). This can lessen the usage of paper plates and disposable utensils. :) 

I recommend use of a sfork. Spoon + fork =sfork. :)

6. Sunblock 
Skin needs protection from the scorching sun to prevent skin cancer and skin aging. 

I recommend Beach Hut Max 100++. 

Taken from http://www.weemall.com/products/630-beach-hut-max-sunblock-lotion-spf100-100ml.aspx

7. Insect Repellent 
Mosquitoes and other insects may bother you within the day or as you sleep. An insect repellent can help prevent unwanted insects from biting onto your skin. 

8. Cellphones and Cameras 
"Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time. "

Cellphone just in case there's an emergency or a need to contact someone. 

10. Waterproof Bag 
I recommend a waterproof bag when you go camping or when going to the beach. It keeps your valuables away from sand, dirt, and water! Promise, it's worth having!! :) I use the one from the Rubberducky brand. 

Taken from http://www.angkaladkarin.com/2010/03/travel-buddies.html

I hope these tips come in handy on your future camping trip! :) Enjoy! Have a fun summer ahead!! :) 

Something to look forward to: April Favorites

Check my previous post: How to Beat the Summer Heat

I want to hear from you. Leave a comment below. :) 

How to Beat the Summer Heat

Taken from http://laseoulguy.com/where-is-your-favorite-beach/

Are you feeling the summer heat? Yes, it's that time of the year again when the sun's rays are in its extreme. 

Summer means beach beach beach! But it can also mean, heat stroke, sweating, and dehydration!! 

How do we beat the heat? Here are some ways: 

1. Stay hydrated

Drink lots of liquid most especially during summer. Drinking a cold glass of water can help lower down your body temperature. Being hydrated doesn't mean just drinking water. It can also be your favorite fruit shake, juice, milk tea, sports drink, yogurt, and ice cream. 

2. Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day

The sun's rays are extreme from 9 AM til 4:30 PM. Within these times, we should limit our activities indoors and stay away from the sun's heat. 

3. Cover up in the sun

Being under the sun for too long can make you feel light-headed and dizzy. Wear a sunscreen and a hat, cap, bandanna, or anything that can cover exposed skin from the sun. 

4. Dress appropriately 

Wear light, loose colored clothes as to let in the breeze. 

5. Keep it cool

Find ways to cool yourself. Stay in front of the fan or AC. Always bring with you a handy fan in case you're feeling hot and sweaty. A wet wipes is an instant pick-me-upper if you're sticky from all the sweating going on. It leaves your skin feeling cool and clean. 

Run your wrist under cool water to bring your body temperature down. Splash your face with water to feel cool or use a cold wash cloth to put over your forehead, face, or neck. 

6. Take a shower

It's one of the best ways to stay cool. Cold running water over your body can bring down body temperature and will help cool you down. Use products with mint as their main ingredient. Mint on your hair and skin is a good way to fight the heat. 

7. Hit the beach or go swimming

If you can't beat the heat, hit the beach! Wearing a bikini under a shade is a refreshing way to relax. Being under water, keeps our skin hydrated. 

8. Eat cool fruits

Instead of eating ice cream, you can get an alternative way to cool down by eating: cucumber, melon, watermelon, orange, and pomelo. 

Something to look forward to: What to Bring on a Camping Trip

Check my previous post: The Body Shop Spa Wisdom Africa

I want to hear from you. Leave a comment below. :) 

SOURCES: 

http://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/26156-10-tips-to-beat-the-summer-heat

http://www.wikihow.com/Cool-Yourself-Down-on-a-Hot-Day

http://www.doctoroz.com/blog/leigh-vinocur-md-facep/5-tips-beat-summer-heat

http://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/26524-food-beat-summer-heat

The Body Shop Spa Wisdom Africa Review

Taken from: http://www.travelization.net/2012/06/freaking-great-summer-scenes-wallpapers.html

Summer is the bikini season! During this time of the year, we want our skin to be soft, smooth, and radiant from head to toe! What we need is exfoliation. 

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells which makes your skin smooth and radiant. It helps unclog pores, even-out skin tone, reduce brown spots, acne scars and dryness, and soften fine lines. It can also prep the skin for shaving.

There are a lot of exfoliation products that may be used for different parts of the body: face, lips, body, and feet. Yes, lips need exfoliation too. :) 

Exfoliation tools range from body scrubs, loofahs, sponge, gloves, body brush, pumice stones, etc. There are a lot of products to choose from. But I prefer to use a body scrub. :) 

A friend recommended The Body Shop Spa Wisdom Africa. I've been using it and loved it since then. :) 

The Body Shop Spa Wisdom Africa Ximenia and Salt Scrub 350 ml 

(Price: P1950)

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

BEST IF YOU WANT TO: Take time to cleanse, revive and revitalize your skin using a luxuriously pampering creamy salt scrub for the body with skin softening butters from Africa that will leave skin soft, smooth and subtly scented with our traditional Spa Wisdom™ Africa fragrance.

BEST FOR: all skin types, particularly those with dry skin who need to exfoliate regularly

How it works:

• Community Trade organic beeswax moisturizes and conditions skin while acting as a barrier to help seal in moisture.
• Community Trade shea butter moisturizes and softens skin.
• Salt grains gently exfoliate skin.
• Ximenia, an oil extracted from the ximenia tree native to Africa, helps soften the skin.

What is Ximenia? It is derived from the ximenia fruit that is native to Africa. Ximenia seed oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids making it a very effective hair oil, rich conditioner and skin softener. 

FULL INGREDIENTS

Glycerin (Humectant), Sodium Chloride (Viscosity Modifier), Beeswax (Emulsifier/Emollient), Cetearyl Alcohol (Emulsifier), Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate (Surfactant), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (Surfactant), Zea Mays (Corn) Starch (Absorbent/Chelating Agent), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) (Skin-Conditioning Agent/Emollient), Fragrance (Fragrance), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Surfactant), Hydrogenated Castor Oil (Emollient), Water (Solvent/Diluent), Ximenia Americana Seed Oil (Emollient), Hexyl Cinnamal (Fragrance Ingredient), Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Fragrance Ingredient), Limonene (Fragrance Ingredient), Benzyl Salicylate (Fragrance Ingredient), Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone (Fragrance Ingredient), Titanium Dioxide (Colour).

(Source: The Body Shop)

The product comes in a plastic jar. At first, it seems like glass but when you look closely it's just plastic. The packaging looks nice and classy. It has an African print in front and on top of the cover. You open it by unlocking the metal thing upwards. You have to be gentle when you do it. 

Sorry if mine looks disgusting. I've consumed half of the product and just used it yesterday. Anyway, it has an off-white color with a vanilla-ish scent. There's a lot of product inside when I first bought it. So this is quite worth it. You might think this is expensive for a scrub  but this goes a long way. It has been months since I used it and still a lot of scrubbing to go. :) 

It has a grainy texture. It's non-abrasive and quite gentle on the skin. I use this on a clean, dry skin. After I wash my body with soap or a loofah with body wash, I rinse it off and pat it dry. I get a handful and gently scrub it all over my body. You'll feel a warm sensation it gives on first application. As you scrub it gently, you'll feel and see dead skin cells removed from your skin! It leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and glowing. It's non-drying and non-abrasive. :) Tip: This works best if you use lukewarm water as you bathe. It helps open up clogged pores

It's a great body scrub which gives you optimum results. This product may last for months and can be an everyday scrub for its mild exfoliation. It keeps your skin smooth and radiant. I love this and will hit the The Body Shop store as soon as I run out of it. :)  

Something to look forward to: How to Beat the Summer Heat

Check my previous post: March BDJ Box Review

I want to hear from you. Leave a comment below. :) 

March BDJ Box Review

It has been a month since I received my March BDJ Box. I've been using and incorporated them in my daily routine for the past month. Most of them I've learned to love while the others, not so much. 

About BDJ Box: 

BDJ BOX was created to help every Filipina who is experiencing a hard time choosing which products best fit them. With the help of our beauty and fashion experts, we'll try our best to customize a beauty box for each of the subscriber.

The goal of BDJ Box is to help them discover, get, and experience the best things about beauty, fashion, events, and etc. BDJ Box is here to help you have confidence in the beauty products that are perfect for you. We hope to partner with every woman's journey to satisfying beauty in living their lives to the fullest.

(Source: BDJ Box Website)

L'OREAL Fall Repair 
Anti-Hair Fall
Shampoo and Conditioner
I've used up almost half of the shampoo while the conditioner has run out. Both products have the same scent but different consistency. 

The shampoo helps clean the hair and its great for color treated hair. It lathers well and helps reduce hair fall. 

The conditioner is easily absorbed by the hair. As you comb through your hair, you'll notice less hair falling off. But, it's not as moisturizing.  

Both products are great for reducing hair fall but I'm not gaga over the scent. I'm looking for hair products that can help make my hair smelling good after taking a shower. With this one, it does not have this distinct smell you'll fall head over heels. The scent is ordinary, typical, boring. 

It's a very good hair-fall duo but my hair needs moisture too. I'll purchase a full bottle of the conditioner to help finish off my shampoo. But I'm not going to repurchase this again. 

L'OREAL Color Riche Le Nail Art
Unfortunately, I haven't tried this product yet. I was planning to use it this week but then, I had my nails done. Maybe next time then! :) I'll do a separate review on this. 

L'OREAL UV Perfect 
12H Long-lasting UV Protector
This has been part of my morning routine. I use this after I apply my moisturizer. Since I started using this, I have less sun spots. Yay! 

I love this product! It's very handy and light. Great for travelling! While I was at the beach, I've been reapplying this and no need to wear a BB cream over it. 

It has SPF 50 UVB UVA PA +++. It's a tinted UV Protector and a great make-up base! 

It comes in a beige color with a light scent. Perfect for my skin tone! It can be easily spread on the skin and has a dewy finish. 

This is a perfect UV protector and make-up base in one! Will repurchase! :) 

L'OREAL UV Perfect BB Max

It's a BB cream with SPF 50+/PA +++. It comes in a sample tube. Though it seems small, it has a lot of product inside. I apply this over my moisturizer and sunblock. I've been using this since March and I love it. :) 

The cream is in dark beige color with a mild scent. Apply 5 dots on the face and spread evenly. It has a dewy finish and does not give a grayish effect unlike most BB cream. 

It looks natural on the face and blends really well on my skin tone. I might repurchase this. :) 

L'OREAL Youth Code Pre-Essence

The direction says: Use twice per day on a perfectly cleansed skin before your usual skincare routine. 

It comes in a sample tube similar to the L'OREAL UV Perfect BB Max. This is the first thing I apply in the morning and at night. 

It's in a clear gel form with a funky smell. It smells like glue (I'm not sure!). But it smells similar to it. As you spread it evenly on the skin, it feels sticky. I'm not sure if it has an effect on my skin nor does it make me look younger. 

I won't repurchase because I don't see any results and I don't like the scent. :( 

L'OREAL Shine Caresse in Juliette

I did a review on this as part of my Products I Regret Buying. Go check out why. 

Something to look forward to: The Body Shop Spa Wisdom Africa Body Scrub 

Check my previous post: Summer Must Haves

I want to hear from you. Leave a comment below. :) 

Summer Must Haves

Taken from: http://www.barrheadtravel.co.uk/holidays/summer-2013-holidays

Yes, I was on vacation and it took awhile for this post. :) While I was at the beach, I was thinking of the products that are most essential to beat the summer heat. Here are my summer must haves! :)

SUNBLOCK

This is a staple! Whether summer or not! It is very important to slather up sunscreen on the face and on the body as soon as you hit the beach or when you just go outside. 

HAIR CARE

Sun exposure can damage not only the hair but also the scalp. We should give it extra protection by wearing a hat or applying a leave in conditioner. This can help fight off frizz and keeps hair moisturized. 

SUNNIES

Sunnies have many uses. It can help repel the sun's rays, it makes you look fashionable, and it can act as a night mask as you sleep while you travel. Don't leave the house without it! 

LIP CARE

Lips need some loving too! A lip care with SPF is a must because our lips get dry and dehydrated too. 

FACE AND BODY WIPES

While you travel, you always have to use a public bathroom. And in most cases, tissue and water are not available. Wet wipes can help clean your hands, face and that area. It keeps everything fresh and clean! 

WATERPROOF BAG

It's a must! When you travel, expect the unexpected! We have to keep our valuables safe, clean, and dry. 

A water proof bag protects your stuff from sand, water, and dirt. No need to worry about those outside elements (except for thieves and the likes). 

Something to look forward to: March BDJ Box Review 

Check my previous post: Etude House Bubble Hair Coloring

I want to hear from you. Leave a comment below. :) 

Etude House Bubble Hair Coloring

Blonde is the new black! :) 

It has been 4 years since I had my hair colored. I like it this way because it lightened my features and I don't look too thin (yes, I have a skinny, narrow face). A dark shade will emphasize my cheeks and will make me look super skinny, anorexic, sick, hungry, dying (You know what I mean!). 

The downside of having colored hair: frequent trips to the salon for touch-ups, it dries your hair, and expensive. 

Having your hair treated by professionals may range from P800-P2000 (depends on which salon you go to). It was quite difficult to maintain and so I resorted to DIY hair coloring. I've tried Revlon Colorstay several times but I didn't like it. It was difficult to work with most especially if you're coloring your own hair. It created uneven patches on my hair which looked kind of funky. 

I've been hearing about Etude House Bubble Hair Coloring and decided to give it a shot. :) 

Etude House Bubble Hair Coloring Natural Brown (Price: P378)

Etude House is a Korean brand. They have a variety of products from skincare, perfume, make-up, nails, haircare and more! :)

The shade I am using is Natural Brown. Bubble Hair Coloring is cheaper compared to Revlon and L'oreal. Yes, budget-friendly! :) 

In front, you'll see how the color will appear on your hair. But it actually depends on what your previous hair color is and how long the product stays on your hair. 

On the right side, it has a product description, instructions on how to use it, and reminders before using the product. All in English! :) 

The directions on the side are not complete. I suggest looking at the illustrations in the manual (inside the box) to see how to properly shake the product and the technique on how to apply it. If you're still unsure, just Google away. There are helpful tips on the web regarding proper application. :) 

Product Description: 

This ammonia-free, foaming, permanent hair color delivers beautiful, evenly colored hair with non-drip, conditioning formula. 

On the left side, it has an illustration on how to use the product but the description is in Korean. :( Nonetheless, the illustrations are easy to understand. 

Inside the box are following: manual, gown, and gloves in a zip lock, oxidizing developer, colorant, and a silky perfumed treatment. It has a gown which is significantly important. Some products don't have one. 

Directions: 

1. Drape enclosed gown around shoulders to protect clothing. Put on enclosed gloves
2. Remove cap from oxidizing developer. Empty colorant into oxidizing developr. Replace cap
3. Slowly tilt oxidizing developer to mix. Use immediately after mixing
4. Press oxidizing developer pump to dispense foam
5. Apply on hands first then on your hair, starting at the roots
6. Massage gently, making sure to completely cover your hair 
7. Leave on for 20-30 minutes. 
8. After developing, rinse out foam with lukewarm water until water runs clear. 
9. Gently massage silky perfumed treatment into hair to saturate 
10. Leave in for 2-5 minutes and rinse 

The instructions are quite clear though it did not completely mention how to properly shake it. You shake it from left to right (not up and down). 

My Thoughts: 

This product is great for those who do frequent hair coloring (such as myself). It is affordable however, it is always sold out. I would suggest trying the product first then if you love it, buy 2 boxes. :) They don't always replenish their sold out products right away. Sometimes it would take a month before they get their supplies from Korea. 

The product has included materials that are essential for your hair coloring experience: gloves, gown, and after-color treatment which the other products don't have. :) 

It is easy to apply and use. It comes out as bubbles (hence, the name) which feels light on the hair. You really have to be patient in applying it deliberately all over your hair to prevent uneven patches. :) 

Before using the product, do an allergy test. You might have sensitive scalp and your scalp might react to this product. You have to look into it also. :) 

If it is your first time to color your hair and you are doing it on your own, read and learn how to do it. Choose a color which is one shade lighter than yours so you won't be shock at the end result. 

Ask suggestions and opinions from friends regarding which color fits you best and how to do it. You can also check YouTube for DIY videos. :) 

Something to look forward to: Summer Must Haves! 

Check my previous post: March Favorites

I want to hear from you. Leave a comment below. :)