[REVIEW] Mary Kay | NEW Botanical Effects Skin Care Review

Reviewing the Botanical Effects Skincare by Mary Kay

Recently i was introduced to Mary Kay's latest skin care, the all New Botanical Effects and its currently in my skin care routine for the past 4 weeks. To those who know me, you may think that i have a crazy hectic lifestyle, but thankfully, with the New Botanical Effects by Mary Kay, they've made it simpler for me to take care of my skin. With only 4 or 5 steps to a complete skin regime, this antioxidant-packed infusion helps me to cleanse my skin throughly without slowing me down with my daily adventures. Want to know more about the product? Read away!

Dont you think the colours of the packaging are way adorbs?!

The range features 5 products namely, the Botanical Effects Gel Cleanser, the Botanical Effect Exfoliating Scrub, the Botanical Effects Toner, the Botanical Effects Moisturizer, and the Botanical Effects Moisturizer SPF30 to provide your skin with extra care. The range contains dragon fruit extracts thats known to contain fatty acids, iron, calcium, phosphorous and several B-complex vitamins, including the often called "anti-stress vitamin" B1 (thiamin), plus B2 (riboflavin) and B3 (niacin). Many thanks to the dragon fruit, it helps fight skin-damaging free radicals too! Another ingredient featured would be the Aloe Vera which happens to be one of the most nutritious plants in the world, to help the skin maintain moisture and also acts an an antioxidant in skin care. Now lets proceed to the review.

Botanical Effects Gel Cleanser

Transparent gel-like texture

But once in contact with water, it lightly foams.

First up would be the Botanical Effects Gel Cleanser. As a first impression, i would say that this tube  leaves a fruity scent each time i cleanse my face. The box states that its suitable for sensitive skin and it has been clinically tested for skin irritancy and allergy, which gives gives me relieve without a worry if my skin would give any reaction to it. From the images above, it comes in a transparent gel-like form, but when in contact with water, it lightly foams! It cleanses deeply and effectively, and since i have slight oily skin, it also managed to dissolve all traces of oil on my skin. And dont get me started about how i enjoy the fruity scent. #love

Botanical Effects Exfoliating Scrub

Look, theres microbeads! 

When in contact with water, it foams up easily while the micro beads gently scrubs my skin. 

For extra cleansing, I would advice you to get the Botanical Effects Exfoliating Scrub. It exfoliates to remove dead and dull skin while deeply cleaning the pores. As its a little strong for my skin, i would personally advice to use this about twice (2 times) a week during the day or night time after washing your face with gel cleanser. One of the days the past 4 weeks, i had full make up on, and i admit that the Botanical Effects Exfoliating Scrub did the job by keeping my face squeaky clean!

Botanical Effects Refreshing Toner

I personally prefer applying toners on a cotton pad

It feels extremely refreshing and it smells like fruits!

Next up would be the Botanical Effects Refreshing Toner, that claims to wipe away traces of dirt and at the same time improves dull looking skin giving you a reason to tone with purpose. (And im living proof that it does what its suppose to do) Hehe. Like any toner, the texture is like liquid, and it works really well with the Botanical effects Gel Cleanser. To use, apply a small amount to a cotton pad, then smooth over face and neck. And believe me that it feels super refreshing on the skin.

Botanical Effects Moisturizer

Gel like texture

Personal hint: apply it in an upward movement for best absorption

And once youre done toning, dont forget to mosturize your skin with the Botanical Effects Moisturizer. I have a confession to make, i hate to moisturize the most. But somehow, after using Botanical Effects, i moisturize  more frequently cause the formula is super quick absorbing and it doesnt feel greasy at all! (EXTRA POINTS TO BOTANICAL EFFECTS). And on a plus side, after moisturizing, it makes it way more easier to apply make up without leaving your skin looking flaky and dry. To use, apply a small amount to a cotton pad, then smooth over face and neck, but personally, i prefer to get messy with my hands for this.

Botanical Effects Moisturizer SPF30

Cream like texture

To be applied evenly around face

Last but not least would be the Botanical Effects Moisturizer SPF30. I usually use this before i start my day to protect my skin from the sun. It claims to protect for at least 12 hours with SPF30 while keeping the skin moisturized. I would think you know what sunblock smells like, and im telling you that the Botanical Effects Moisturizer SPF30 is the total opposite of that. Its also non greasy and apparently very easily absorbed by the skin. Psst, this currently is in my hand bag almost everyday! So if you happen to see me on a bright sunny day, do not hessitate to ask me for some SPF30 Moisturizer by Mary Kay. Teehee

Not too sure if this photo is clear, but each box is nicely sealed each time you receive it!

As a verdict, i have to say that Mary Kay has really step up the game of skincare. It does what its suppose to do, provided with some extra's! It smells amazing, making it  fun to start with cleansing, enjoyable to tone and super de-stressing while i moisturize. The down side to it is that the price is slightly steep, but if youre looking for quality skincare, Mary Kay would be one of my trustable brands to keep up with as they do not disappoint. I also love that the range is infused with enriching antioxidant ingredients (dragon fruit and aloe extracts) to provide my skin with extra boost of TLC (tender loving care).

Funfact: Every product from the range are infused with dragon fruit and aloe extracts

And there you have it! For more updates and informations on these irresistable products, head on over to Mary Kay Malaysia on facebook, or if you prefer instagram, you can also check their instagram (@MaryKayMySg) page out too! If you have any other question regarding the new range, please feel free to leave me a comment and i'd be glad to share with you my thoughts on it. I hope you enjoyed reading my post, till my next blog post xx

[LAUNCH] Mamonde Launches First Counter in Malaysia

Mamonde launches first counter in AEON 1 Utama

If you've been reading my previous post on AmorePacific Malaysia's latest cosmetics brand Mamonde, well good news to you cause Mamonde has officially been launched here in Malaysia with its first counter located at AEON 1 Utama. And believe me, trust me when i say that they're worth the visit. I simply fell in love cause i have to admit that their skincare ranges are pretty impressive.

Skincare to suit different purposes

How the counter looks

The store size is approximately 315 sq ft, Mamonde's counter carries 140 products from 32 products categories which ranges from skincare, makeup, handcare and more! Apart from sales of products, the counter also offers complimentary Flower Touch hand massage with seven different types of hand creams to choose from as well as complimentary skin consultation.

The Top 3 featured products by Mamonde

How the essence was produced.

I was impressed to find that their staffs are well trained, while they shared to me the therapeutic properties of flowers to ensure that customers like you and me would get a chance to experience and learn about Mamonde's flower science at its Flower Experience Corner.  So if you happen to be around, be sure to try out their products. This area also doubles up as a floral aromatherapy area where customers get to literally 'stop and smell the flowers' to relax the mind with its calming and soothing scents.

The official launching ceremony

We had Celine Diong, the Brand General Manager of Mamonde Malaysia, who shared to us that this new brand which is inspired by flowers is expected to excite the cosmetic market with its unique concept and affordable pricing. The products are priced from RM6 to RM169 making them accessible to women from all walks of life! So, ladies, if youre looking for high end affordable cosmetics and skin care, Mamonde has got it all covered for you to looking great!

OPENING PROMO // Till 30th August 2016

Psst, good news! Mamonde will be targeting to open another 3 counters by year-end with its second counter opening at AEON Mid Valley Megamall in September 2016. At the event, we also had Mamonde's brand ambassador, Park Shin Hye, a popular Korean actress with leading roles in K-dramas who greeted guests through a video which was aired during the official launch ceremony.

The limited set pakages

Park Shin Hye greeting us with a custom video

Fans or Park, I have good news! You can look forward to purchasing the autographed limited edition Mamonde Moisture Ceramide Light Cream, Intense Cream and the Cover Powder Cushion. The autographed items are limited to 150 pieces per item so fans are advised to purchase them soonest to avoid disappointment. Another thing to look forward to is to stand a chance to meet Park Shin Hye in person! How? All you need to do is to purchase the Park Shin Hye First Energy Lucky Box which comprise of an Essence and a Serum which also comes with 70 passes to be won for a 'Meet the Fan' session happening this October! *So exciting*

On going opening promotions

In conjunction with the official launch, Mamonde is offering complimentary gift sets when you purchase above RM180, a free Mamonde membership with the purchase of any Mamonde products and many more attractive deals awaits in store! So what are you waiting for? Dont miss out on the amazing promotional offers! For more information on Mamonde, head on over to their Facebook Page for promotions and latest updates. Thanks dropping by!

Sara xx

[LAUNCH] The New Men's Bioré Double Scrub Range

At the official launch of the Bioré Double Scrub Facial Foam Range.

Modern Men today are more conscious about personal grooming, appearance, and image (especially when it comes to impressing the ladies). Hehe. Leading a hectic  lifestyle and constant exposure to polluted environment has been a challenge for men to maintain good skin condition especially when it comes to impurities and excess oil building up that can clog the pores which then eventually causes oily skin and frequent acne breakouts. Yikes!

Mr Masaki presenting the new formulated facial foam

So this is where a facial scrub would be handy for you men from all around the world. Being the No. 1 Men's Facial Scrub brand in Malaysia, Men's Bioré is leading with innovation with the usage of the Advance Japan Million-scrub technology. They have done highly researched formulation which has Detox Power Cleansing and Oil Absorbing properties to target the root cause of various skin troubles. It also works effectively to provide healthy bright clean skin with zero oily feeling, leaving the skin feeling refreshed from inside out.

Mr Masaki sharing a few words

The official launch

President of Kao Malaysia, Mr Masaki Fujiwara was present to share a few words, "Mens Bioré is constantly working to develop innovative products to meet our customers needs. With its advance technology, we are introducing our first men's facial wash that provides Detox Power Cleansing. We are positive that our customers will be able to get visible improvement in their skin condition after each wash."

Sharnaaz Ahmad signing the poster at the launch

Presening the brand ambassador of Men's Bioré

The entire Men's Bioré Double Scrub Facial Foam range is now available in a new refreshing contemporary look, which is specially designed to cater to the young, active, outdoorsy Malaysian men. It comes in five variants namely Deep Clean, Deep Clean Extra Cool, Oil Clear, Acne Solution and Bright Clean to cater to various skin concerns. And if you havent noticed, Kao has appointed actor Sharnaaz Ahmad as its new brand ambassador!

The futuristic performance at the launch

Mens Bioré ft. Sharnaaz Ahmad

It may be a little strange that im writing about skincare products for men. But to be honest, i was actually interested in knowing about men scrubs. Might as well get my research done for my future kids, and at least i'll be aware of what skincare to introduce them with when they're older. hehe. The newly improved Men's Bioré Double Scrub Facial Form helps to absorbs excessive oil from the surface of the skinn while removing blackheads and dullness while it also deeply cleanses by directly delivering active oil clearing and anti-bacterial agents deep into pores.

The new formulated rance of the Men's Bioré double scrub facial foam

The 50g sized facial cleansers are priced at RM8.60 and the 100g sized facial cleansers are priced at RM15.70. I think its fairly priced for something that guarantees you it does what it should. Its now available at all major retailers, pharmacies, hypermarkets and provision shops from August 2016 onwards. For more information on Men's Bioré products, visit www.kao.com/my/mensbiore or www.facebook.com/mensbioremalaysia.

Sara xx

[REVIEW] Farmasi Colour Cosmetic (FCC) SkinTrends Oily & Combination skin range

The latest SkinTrends Oily and Combination skin range

In Malaysia, I've been asked about certified HALAL skincare's and makeup, by fans and readers, so good news! Farmasi Colour Cosmetics (FCC) is now available in Malaysia flew all the way from Istanbul to provide Halal Cosmetics and Skin Care. The brand has been in Malaysia for a while now, but in this blog post, I'll be talking more about their latest skincare range, SkinTrends.

Presenting FCC's latest product range

I'll be honest that I've only heard about Farmasi Colour Cosmetics Malaysia earlier this year, and I got really excited to be given the chance to review their latest range, the SkinTrends. The SkinTrends range are available in 3 ranges to suit different skin types, which varies from normal skin, dry and sensitive skin and oily and combination skin.  I have to say that I love products that are designed to suit specific skin types as it usually results to better skin complexion.

How do you determine your skin type?

Here's how to determine your skin type. I would highly recommend you to know your skin first in order to purchase the right range to suit your skin type. And in you have oily and combination skin, then we're in the same boat! I have serious oily problems around my T-zone and of course, my open pores can be a hassle to take care of. So since I've determined my skin type, its time for the review!

The Oily Combination skin Range by SkinTrends

I was given the Farmasi Colour Cosmetic (FCC) SkinTrends Oily & Combination range to try where Acai Berry is the main ingredient. Did you know that Acai Berry has become a leading trend for diet, health supplements, for beauty and skin care? With the latest technology of European scientist with acai impact, its makes it suitable for all ages. The range comes in the form of a purifying gel, purifying tonic and a daily cream which I will further review in this blog post. As a first impression, I like how the ranges are all colour coded and that it looks very neat when I display it on my bathroom shelf. Now, it's review time!

SkinTrends Purifying Gel for oily & combination skin

Purifying Gel for oily and combination skin

Information available at the back. 

First, up would be the SkinTrends Purifying Gel for oily & combination skin. It claims to deep cleanse, removes oil and energizes skin while leaving the skin feeling purified and mattified. I'm glad that range has been dermatologically tested making it safe to use without any worries. If you're wondering, there are also instructions at the back in Turkish, English, Russian and Ukranian. Ingredients are also stated so that you can go through it if you're allergic. Another thing I would highlight would be that I love that it also states that it has a 12 months lifespan once you've open the product, ensuring that you only use the product when it's in its best condition.

The texture of the purifying gel is like liquid gel

Once in contact with water

Giving my skin a 2-minute massage. hehe

The texture of the purifying gel was very liquid-like, so it's very easy for the content to slide out. I'll just warn you to be careful when trying to pore out the gel to your palms to avoid wastage. hehe. This is the first step of the skin care that removes impurities, makeup residue, and excess sebum without drying the skin. It won't really foam as much, but it does produce really small bubbles because of its gel-typed formula. After washing, I realize that my pores felt tighter and that my face felt squeaky clean!

SkinTrends Purifying Tonic for oily and combination skin

Purifying Tonic by SkinTrends 

Information and instructions at the back

Once you have cleansed your face with the purifying gel, next would be to apply the SkinTrends Purifying Tonic for oily and combination skin. Applying the toner would be optional (depending on your skin condition) but it would be recommended that you use this for a more intensive result that tightens your pores.The toner removes impurities, tones skin, tighten pores and mattifies.

Apply on a cotton pad

And gently smooth on surface of the skin

I'll be honest that the toner was slightly strong for me, so I wasn't using it on a daily basis. I would advise using this only when your skin is extra oily, but otherwise, you can use it 2-3 times a week like I did. The texture was like watery, and the solution was transparent. If your pores are open, this product would really do the job to tighten pores. I used a cotton pad to apply the toner, and while applying on my skin, it does leave your skin feeling fresh, but for the first few seconds, you might feel a slight sting cause I think my skin may be a little sensitive to the product.

SkinTrends Daily Cream spf15 for oily and combination skin

The Daily Cream for oily and combination skin by SkinTrends

And the last step to complete the FCC skincare regime would be to apply the SkinTrends Daily Cream spf15 for oily and combination skin. It states that its high in antioxidant and cellular metabolism that expresses hydration to the skin. Personally, I've been using this cream daily and really helps to keep my skin moisturized without making my skin look oily. (If you have oily skin, you'll get what I mean)

The texture is cream like

Applying it on my face

After spreading the daily cream on my face. 

The texture itself looks and feels like cream, but upon application, it felt really moisturizing. I was expecting it to be sticky, but surprisingly it wasn't sticky at all. Although, I'll just let you know that it will turn your skin oily after about 6 hours, but it's not as bad as like regular days before I started using this skincare. It has been developed specially to provide sebum balance and mattifies the skin while protecting the skin with spf15. With that statement I approve that it does the job well and just to add on, I think the acai berry is doing a good job to make my appearance glow, no?

Security Seal

Security Seal

Security Seal

Security Seal

Not that it matters that much, but to me, I believe that quality products are usually sealed. This prevents you from buying products that have been exposed to oxygen and contamination. So to guarantee that your products are new, be sure to always check the security seal. I admire the efforts that they've put to sustain the quality of their products for their customers.

The price of the FCC SkinTrend products

And there you have it! Farmasi Colour Cosmetic (FCC) SkinTrend came all the way from Turkey to provide halal skincare ranges to Malaysia. Despite looking a little clinical, the products work like a charm. The price is reasonable and I would recommend you to try this out if you're looking for products that have results. Be sure to visit https://www.facebook.com/FCCMsia/ for the latest updates. Thanks for reading my humble blog post, please do not hesitate to leave a comment below if you have any questions :)

Sara xx