Olay Regenerist Advanced Cleansing System

Posted on June 21, 2015 by CelesteDeJesus

Some of us might not have the budget for a Clarisonic…but, hey, what about this one?

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For the past years, I’m sure you have witnessed the popularity of facial cleansing devices, dominated by best-selling brand Clarisonic. It took a while before beauty brands recognized the strong potential from this new beauty segment but it wasn’t too late for brands like Clinique and Olay to jump in the beauty device wagon.

While I think that Clarisonic is a worthy investment for good facial cleansing system, not everyone would have a budget of RM600+ to enjoy the benefits of a cleansing device. I wasn’t highly keen on trying out a cleansing device before but while shopping online at www.watsons.com.my, I received a free Olay Regenerist Advanced Cleansing System (worth around RM129) together with my purchase of RM150 of selected brands. I love online shopping and I love free stuff!

This facial cleansing device set comes in Olay’s black and red box. The box set contains: 1 facial cleansing device, 1 brush head, 1 skin renewal cleanser 20ml and 2 AA batteries.

Benefits of Olay Regenerist Cleansing System:

Up to 4x better cleansing than cleanser alone (tested on removing makeup vs. cleanser alone)
Gently exfoliates
Delivers daily deep cleansing
Renewal Cleanser primes the skin for anti-aging regimen
Device has 2-speed control, is water-resistant and easy to hold

What results to expect:

Skin is instantly cleaner, feels fresher
Skin texture is improved and smoother with continuous use

I like that Duracell batteries are already included in this boxed set. Don’t you just hate it when you discover that you need batteries for something you just bought or received? It’s also easy to install the 2 batteries on the device. Gently rock the battery compartment (on the base) side to side while pulling to release battery cover. Then insert the 2 batteries and push back the cover. Reminder, do not mix old and new batteries.

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The device has 2 rubber buttons, 1 to switch it on or off and 1 to control speed. I prefer to use basic speed versus the faster one but this will depend on your personal preference.

This set comes with 1 brush head, which is easy to snap onto the device. It is recommended to replace the brush head every 3 months. I haven’t replaced mine after more than 3 months, haha, but it still works fine and, don’t worry, the brush head is not disgusting or dirty-looking (yet).

A 20ml skin renewal cleanser is packed inside this set but you don’t necessarily need to use it together with the device. We all have our preferred cleanser so feel free to use the device with your favorite brand. I have a habit of trying new brands and products every now and then. I’ve used the Olay Cleansing Device with different brands like Garnier, Neutrogena and Shizens.

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For the past 6 months, I’ve been using this device every evening to cleanse my face. Initially, I tried using it day and night but I developed a few pimples, around 2-3 (oh yes, I will count them coz I rarely get these!), so I decided to slow down and use it at night only. For someone who has not tried cleansing devices before, it probably ‘surprised’ my skin. When I limited use to once a day, the pimples stopped, yay! And the fun starts.

My skin does feel instantly cleaner, in a different way than it feels with normal deep cleansing without a device. And though it’s not Clarisonic, I’d say it does a good job in complementing my skin-cleansing regimen. So if you want to start exploring facial cleansing devices and you’re on a tight budget, the Olay Regenerist Advanced Cleansing System is good bet.

Where to buy: www.luxola.com.my / www.watsons.com.my

Replacement cleansing brush heads are available at www.watsons.com.my – RM29.90 for a boxed set of 2 pieces

What I think about that Watsons Video Ad

Posted on March 14, 2015 by CelesteDeJesus

I’ve read mixed reactions on this recent advert by Watsons. What do I think?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5ytoPaBFy4

(Click image to watch full video)

I’ve been so busy these past few weeks and I barely have time nowadays to blog (I’m way behind my lineup of articles, gasp!). Well, work and family come first.

But today, I noticed a lot of mixed reactions regarding this Watsons video advertisement, an ad meant to announce its ‘Hottest Sale’ ever.

It’s a simple, short video featuring a girl, with her boyfriend, shopping for things at Watsons then the girl, who looks pretty wearing makeup, says to the cashier that she doesn’t want to buy cosmetics. After which, her face turns plain, pale, colorless while her boyfriend gets shocked and panics a bit.

The cashier insists that she will get huge discounts and places back the cosmetic items in the girl’s pile of products and the girl turns pretty again. The girl says that she still doesn’t want to buy cosmetics, removes the makeup items and she turns pale again. Her boyfriend panics a bit more. Then the cashier insists that with Watsons VIP card, she gets RM5 points. The girl’s boyfriend then grabs her wallet, takes out the VIP card and says that he wants.

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watsons-hottest-sale-ever-video-girl-turns-ugly

I’ve read some of the comments here and there, and it’s a bit confusing. Take note that I am not here to create any form of war against other people’s opinions. I’m just sharing thoughts and some questions.

Some people are appalled, saying that the advert means that women need makeup to be beautiful. To this I ask, isn’t this something that has already consumed the market? I mean, with all the hype and addiction of women to makeup, with all the selfies posted daily and hourly enhanced with pre-shoot makeup and post-shoot filters, with all the beauty bloggers including me who are blogging about makeup, with all the magazines in the world advertising cosmetics, are we saying that using makeup to be beautiful is a damnable statement and those who promote it should be condemned? I guess there are so many makeup brands that we have to condemn if that’s the case.

How many of us would actually go out, meet friends, go to work, go out on a date or important event, without, take note, withouta dab of makeup? Would anyone of us actually dare to spend a month, a week or even a day of meeting people outside the house without even a pat of face powder, lipstick or lipgloss, eyeliner, eye shadow, mascara or blush? None of any of these? Nothing at all? Just wash your face and out you go? Hmmm, sounds pretty impossible to me.

Some get angry, saying that their boyfriends would never react like that. Well, to this, I’d say that the ad did some exaggeration but it could happen in real life. Come on, let’s be realistic here. Nowadays, you see teens and ladies in the mall trying to look like Korean actresses with all the possible makeup, large or colored contact lens, fake eyelashes and more. Of course, with all the enhancements, some ladies would now look entirely different than how they normally would.

So if a boyfriend has never seen a girl without the extreme add-ons, add-ons that she did to herself, and then suddenly he sees her for the first time without them, can we blame him if he looks at her differently? If he continues to love her or even more, then all is good. But if not, then it simply meant that his love was superficial. However, in the ad, the portrayal was not like this. In fact, the boyfriend in the ad was supportive of the girl. He didn’t scream or ran when he saw her without makeup. But let’s remember something here. If we have trained our boyfriends or partners to see us in our enhanced looks, then we have created that picture in their heads. It is not their fault that they expect you to look like a queen when you’ve always shown them that you look like a queen.

Some find it funny. Personally, this ad reminded me of an episode in Ally McBeal where Ling Woo (played by Lucy Liu) was not wearing makeup and when her boyfriend Richard Fish (played by Greg Germann) saw her for the first time without makeup, he screamed in fear. Or that episode in That 70’s show when Michael (Ashton Kutcher) sees Jackie (Mila Kunis) without makeup. His scream was epic. Check it out in this video. Super funny.

So if I were the brand director, would I approve this ad or conceptualize the ad this way? Yes and no. Yes, it is good to have a funny approach. This is probably one of the funniest sale ads I’ve seen. We normally see sale ads done in the repeated boring ways and this one gets a plus for extra effort. But no, I agree with some who say that there could have been a more tasteful way of announcing the SALE event or highlighting on makeup products.

But overall, do I find it offensive? Should it be a reason for me to jump and condemn the brand?

No. And honestly, I just find the ad hilarious.

New Neutrogena Deep Clean Brightening and Hydrating Cleansers

Posted on March 10, 2015 by CelesteDeJesus

Love the deep clean feel of Neutrogena cleansers? You’re going to love them even more.

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I’ve mentioned so many times in my articles that cleansing is a vital step in taking care of our skin. In fact, I personally use several cleansing products at the moment to make sure that I cleanse my skin properly. I have makeup removers, makeup cleansing lotions, foaming cleanser and face scrub.

I love Neutrogena cleansers and am happy to talk about 2 new additions to the Deep Clean family: Brightening Foaming Cleanser and Hydrating Foaming Cleanser. Now we have 2 new products to use for healthy radiant and clean skin! Honestly, I just love that deeply cleansed feel after washing the face with Neutrogena products.

NEW Deep Clean Brightening Foaming Cleanser

Effective Deep Cleaning Facial Cleanser with 2x brightening power for cleaner, fairer and more radiant skin with every wash

This cleanser comes with 2X brightening power! With the kind of climate that we have here and our daily exposure to the heat of the sun, it is not surprising that a lot of us experience uneven darkening or spots on the face. Aside from sunblock, moisturizer and serum, the facial wash you use should also contain brightening ingredients if you want to have brighter and radiant skin.

The formula of Neutrogena Deep Clean Brightening Foaming Cleanser contains mulberry extract and clinically proven whitening vitamin complex that boosts skin fairness with every wash.

What makes this cleanser good:

Clinically proven formula removes dirt and skin-dulling residue of makeup, sunblock and BB creams
Whitening complex contains Ascorbyl Glucoside, which inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase responsible for melanin production
It also contains Mulberry extract with Ascorbic Acid and Niacin, known to brighten the skin
Formulated with Neutrogena’s Unique Deep Clean trademark, which is dermatologically-tested to cleanse deep down into pores to remove dirt, oil, makeup and dead surface skin cells
Makes skin look fresher, healthier, fairer and luminous
Does not leave a drying or tightening feel on the face after use
Love the scent of this cleanser on my face!
Easy to rinse
Affordable

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The cleanser is packed in a soft press tube with a flip top cap. Like most other Neutrogena cleansers, this also comes with a sealed dispenser. The cleanser product itself is a pink opaque cream with a lovely scent that’s easy to fall for.

Simply dispense a pea-size amount of the cleanser and blend with water, and the cleanser will lather into rich creamy foam. It’s very easy to rinse and definitely leaves that deep clean feel.

NEW Deep Clean Hydrating Foaming Cleanser

Effective deep cleansing and retains moisture for cleaner, softer skin with every wash

This cleanser comes with 2X hydrating power! Ideal for people like me who experience drying of the skin, mainly due to long hours of working in air-conditioned places. I guess a lot of us will experience this once in a while. Nevertheless, we should use facial cleansers that are formulated to provide added hydration to our skin. Dehydration leads to premature aging of the skin…like wrinkles! So while it is important to have deeply cleansed skin especially after work, we have to make sure that our cleansers don’t strip necessary moisture from our skin.

The Hydrating Foaming Cleanser is enriched with Water Mineral Complex that instantly hydrates skin with 2X moisture boost.

What makes this cleanser good:

Water Mineral Complex consists of copper gluconate, magnesium aspartate, zinc gluconate and water, all working to improve skin hydration
Makes skin cleaner and yet softer
Formulated with Neutrogena’s Unique Deep Clean trademark, which is dermatologically-tested to cleanse deep down into pores to remove dirt, oil, makeup and dead surface skin cells
Does not leave a drying or tightening feel on the face after use
Easy to rinse
Affordable

Like the Deep Clean Brightening Foaming Cleanser, the Hydration Foaming Cleanser also comes in a soft press tube with flip top cap and sealed dispenser. The cleanser product is in a fresh green color.

I am using both cleansers daily; hydrating for morning use because I’ll be going to work and working in cold conditions, then brightening for evening to brighten and cleanse my skin from full makeup, sunblock and creams. Happy with these cleansers!

Neutrogena cleansers are available in Watsons, Guardian, Caring, supermarkets and other pharmacies.

Tebe Lavish Soap Bar for Face & Body

Posted on January 25, 2015 by CelesteDeJesus

Cleanse, moisturize and refresh your skin with paraben-free soap

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Are you someone who only uses body wash or shower gel? Do you use soap bar?

I love using shower gel together with a bath sponge or lily but I also enjoy using soap bar for my body every morning. During the day, it’s just faster to use a bar of soap instead of my usual shower gel that I pour on the bath lily. Some of us have to rush bathing; put makeup and get ready quickly as we also need to prepare our child/children for school.

I love soap bars from Crabtree & Evelyn, Melvita and The Body Shop. I’ve recently opened my Tebe Lavish Soap Bar and I love it.

Tebe Lavish Soap Bar

With pure olive leaf & green tea extracts

Price: RM75 for 170g

Where to buy: Skintopic Outlets or Kiosks

Can be used on the face and body

Free from mineral oils, parabens, artificial colourants & fragrance, silicones and animal products

Tebe’s triple milled Lavish Soap Bar with olive leaf extract contains a sumptuous blend of extra virgin olive oil and natural waxes that will produce a rich, creamy lather. pH balanced and lightly scented, your skin will feel soft, moisturized, cleansed and refreshed.

This soap comes in a dark brown rectangular box. Upon opening flip-top box cover, you’ll be welcomed by a mild scent of the soap, which is wrapped inside a thin special paper.

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The light scent is fresh and invigorating. I personally love floral fragrance so it’s quite easy for this soap to capture me. After use, you’ll feel refreshed and your skin will feel lightly moisturized. It’s just a bit challenging to handle this soap bar at first because of its size so if you have small hands, it will be large to hold.

Tebe Lavish Soap Bar Ingredients:

Sodium Palmate, Sodium Cocoate, Aqua (Water), Olea europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Parfum, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Chamomilla recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Olea europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, Camellia sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract

Key Ingredients:

Olive leaf extract for brightening
Olive oil for softening
Chamomile for purifying
Green tea leaf extract as anti-oxidant

Tebe Lavish Soap Bar is manufactured at Simunovich Olive Estate Limited in New Zealand. For more information, visit www.simuoliveestate.com

My 2015 Beauty Regime from The Butterfly Project Beauty Box

Posted on January 10, 2015 by CelesteDeJesus

How are you starting your beauty regimen this year? Have you got your whole body (or most of it) covered? Thanks to The Butterfly Project, I got started with my new regimen early.

beauty-box-makeup-skincare-haircare-hand-cream

Happy New Year! Wait, what? Is it late?

It’s always wonderful to welcome the new year with new things…specially beauty stuff. And this month, I have started using new and exciting products to take care of my lips, hands, face and hair.

beauty-box-with-garnier-sakura-white-cleanser-and-moisturizer

For the face, it’s time to explore a new cleanser and a moisturiser to improve my skin tone with Garnier Sakura White Pinkish Radiance Cleansing Foam and Moisturizing Cream. I have yet to unbox the cream but starting with the cleansing foam, I fell in love with the beautiful scent. I know, I know, it’s not the scent that solves my skin concern but, hey, can’t help it if the scent is really lovely. These Sakura White products give the skin fresh and pinkish radiant complexion. And they are affordable, too, starting at RM12.90.

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I’ve been using GlamGlow since last year and seeing this travel size ThirstyMud is an excitement. This is still part of my beauty regime and with Chinese New Year approaching, I’m just happy to have this travel size tube! GlamGlow ThirstyMud gives hydrating wonders on the skin within a 20-minute application and wash off or tissue off.

Oh, yes, I regularly enjoy my GlamGlow mud with some wine

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I enjoy using mist on my face for instant moisture and skin refreshment. I’m currently using Melvita Eau Florale de Rose Damask Floral Rose Water, which I’ve also placed in a mini spray to carry with me to work. Now this Always Aloe Vera Soothing & Refresh Gel Mist is a delightful treat from the beauty box! I haven’t heard of this brand but the scent is invigorating, the mist feels great on the face and I love the spray.

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Hair is a priority for me to start this year right as the effect of my rebonding treatment is starting to wear off. I’m always exploring shampoos and conditioners that will take care of my damaged hair. This Matrix Biolage Colorlast shampoo, as its name suggests, is for making color last longer – giving you salon-vibrant color for up to 9 weeks – but I discovered that Biolage also has a shampoo for dry hair —- Biolage Hydrasource. The Matrix Biolage hair care range addresses specific hair concern and is committed to creating sustainable products.

I love lip care products and will continue to love them. I’ve tried Shizens Lip Tattoo (see full review HERE) and it’s an amazing moisturizer, color and anti-aging product in one. It’s priced at RM168 so I may want to save it for office days and important events. For those casual days, I have Maybelline Baby Lips Colored Lip Balm to save my dry lips. If I remember right, this is only around RM15, available at leading pharmacies and beauty shops. I love the watermelon flavour and color of this Pink Shock variant. Did I mention it provides 8-hour moisture?

We must always hydrate our hands and take care of them daily and hourly. Hourly? Oh, yes, specially if you’re working inside cool temperature places. Never allow your hands to feel dry so always carry a tube of hand cream with you. This L’Occitane Velvet hand cream is a perfect companion to make sure that my hands stay young and beautiful.

So these are some of my beauty picks to start my beauty regime this year! What are yours?

Find out more about the brands featured in this article:

Garnier – http://www.facebook.com/GarnierMalaysia

GlamGlow – http://www.facebook.com/GlamGlowMud

Always – http://www.facebook.com/always21malaysia

Matrix Biolage – http://www.facebook.com/pages/Biolage-by-Matrix/515997771750165

Maybelline – http://www.facebook.com/maybellinenysimplyfab

www.maybelline.com.my

L’Occitane – http://www.facebook.com/loccitane.my

http://my.loccitane.com/

Watsons names its GLOW 50 Top Personalities in Malaysia

Posted on January 7, 2015 by CelesteDeJesus

Who are the celebrities you look up to? There are a lot of celebrities in Malaysia and Watsons has identified glowing personalities in society.

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Award Presentation to Glow 50 Personalities Round

L-R: Danny Hoh, Marketing Controller of Watsons Malaysia; Jessica Ng, Marketing and Development Director of Watsons Malaysia; Chelsia Ng; Cathryn Lee; Carven Ong; Candy Ice & Anuja Ananthan

In November, the leading retail brand announced Malaysia’s top 50 individuals who personify the Watsons retail brand and represents true essence of beauty and health.

In its latest endeavour ‘50 Glowing Personalities’, GLOW Magazine by Watsons has identified top personalities who are known for their social influence in the industry. GLOW magazine is a health, well-being and beauty magazine for readers and people who have or aspire to have a healthy attitude towards life. The bi-monthly magazine brings latest trends to Watsons’ diverse customers’ base through beauty, healthy, lifestyle tips and step by step guidelines. If I remember it right, this magazine costs only around RM3, available at Watsons boutiques.

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Red carpet interview with GLOW 50 Personalities –

Carven Ong (Renowned Fashion Designer) & Atilia Haron (Jazz singer and song writer)

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Award Presentation to Glow 50 Personalities Round

L-R: Kevin Kam, Head of Property Watsons Malaysia; Low Siew Hui, Finance Director of Watsons Malaysia; Julie Woon, Joanne Yeoh & Diana Danielle

“The top 50 Glowing Personalities is an initiative that echoes Watsons brand and how we want to inspire our customers towards greater confidence by making the most of their natural good looks. Our panel has selected celebrities, bloggers, sports personalities and opinion leaders who truly are champions in their own ways, and represent the essence or health, beauty and wellbeing. They are also Watsons VIP Black Card member and Watsons Celebrity Friends, and have really experienced remarkable effects of our Watsons brand, products and services. They truly GLOW,” said Danny Hoh, Chief Editor of Watsons GLOW Magazine, and Marketing Controller of Watsons Malaysia at the 50 Glowing Personalities party which was organized to mark the success of the campaign.

L-R: Hansen Lee; Danny Hoh, Marketing Controller of Watsons Malaysia; Jessica Ng, Marketing and Development Director of Watsons Malaysia; Xin Le Chai; Wong Chui Ling; Vanessa Chong; Siti Saleha; Reem Shahwa & Dato’ Dr Fazley Yaacob

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L-R: Low Kok Kwan, IT Director of Watsons Malaysia; Chin Oi Mee, Business & Process Controller of Watsons Malaysia; Jojo Struys; Patricia K; Pamela Chong; Nadine Ann Thomas; Nadia Heng; Michelle Lee & Megan Tan

Finale group photo of Mr. Kulvinder Birring, Managing Director of Watsons Malaysia

& Indonesia (Centre) together with Watsons Management Team & GLOW 50 Personalities

The glowing personalities at the event are Anuja Ananthan, Atilia Haron, Candy Ice, Carven Ong, Cathryn Lee, Chelsia Ng, Chermaine Poo, Diana Danielle, Ezra Chuah, Fazley Yaacob, Hansen Lee, Joanne Yeoh, Jojo Struys, Julie Woon, Jun Yong, Kit Mah, Lavin Seow, Lenna Lim, Linora Low, Megan Tan, Michelle Lee, Nadia Heng, Nadine Ann Thomas, Pamela Chong, Patricia Knudsen, Reem Shahwa, Siti Saleha, Vanessa Chong, Wong Chui Ling & Xin Le Chai.

I’ve personally met Chui Ling Wong and I truly adore this woman. She has an amazing charisma, respectable personality and admirable character.

As Christmas and New Year are around the corner, Watsons has taken this opportunity to initiate a year end campaign themed as ‘Watsons – A Time to Shine’.

“Year end period is also holiday period cherished and celebrated by people all around the world. It’s the time of the year, when you want to look good and feel great. Thus, Watsons will help its dedicated customers to shine in beauty, health and wellness so that they can have gorgeous year-end gatherings. Customers who spend RM150 will stand a chance to grab 5 limited editions Watsons – A Time to Shine tumbler, while those who spend RM50 will get limited edition collectible paper bags and 2015 calendars,” added Danny.

Kulvinder Birring, Watsons Malaysia Managing Director, who launched the event, thanked all the celebrities and suppliers who attended the event for their support to Watsons in the past years, which have helped Watsons in becoming Asia’s No. 1 Pharmacy/Drugstore for 6^th Year in the running. In addition to that, in 2014, Watsons Malaysia has also won numerous awards including the prestigious Putra Brand Award and Dragons of Asia GOLD awards.”

“Watsons has also just launched our home delivery services to drive our e-commerce. With the growth of online shopping, Watsons will take the lead among retail stores in Malaysia to create a memorable online shopping experience for its customers in terms of convenience, one-stop information portal which include beauty tips and benefits for members, exclusive products and offers, digital version of GLOW magazine and Watsons mailer. Customers will also get and spend points by shopping in Watsons’ stores as well as online. This means Watsons literally is reachable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at watsons.com.my,” added Kulvinder.

Caryn Loh, Watsons Malaysia General Manager – Trading and Jessica Ng, Watsons Malaysia Director of Marketing & Development and other senior management team were the presenters in this glittering ceremony.

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Award Presentation to Glow 50 Personalities Round

L-R: Nermin Hodzic, Supply Chain Director of Watsons Malaysia; Caryn Loh, General Manager – Trading of Watsons Malaysia; Atilia Haron; Linora Low, Lenna Lim; Lavin Seow; Kit Mah & Jun Yong

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Spectacular laser show to kick start the GLOW 50 Party event

Watsons GLOW 50 red carpet gala was held at the fashionable Zebra Square and attended by hundreds of celebrities, Watsons’ suppliers and members of the media. The guests were chauffeured fashionably in the sexy Mini Countryman. They were also treated to the online shopping experience on watsons.com.my by beautiful Watsons Online Ambassadors. Apart from that, they were feasted with performances by Atilia Haron, Malaysia’s popular jazz singer/songwriter, Dato’ Dr. Fazley Yaakob, Celebrity Chef and Patricia K, a renowned DJ.

Asia’s leading health and beauty retailer awarded 50 Malaysian personalities who embrace the true essence of beauty and health in a glittering red carpet gala event.

Stay updated with Watsons Malaysia via its FB page:

http://www.facebook.com/watsonsmalaysia

Visit their website for promos, updates and beauty news:

www.watsons.com.my

Mario Badescu Seaweed Night Cream Product Review

Posted on January 3, 2015 by CelesteDeJesus

Are you sure your skin gets enough hydration while you sleep, specially during cold weather or temperature?

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Our skin needs sufficient moisture even while we sleep, specially if you have an air-conditioned room. Without enough moisture on our skin, it is more prone to premature aging, dryness, sensitivity, dullness and formation of fine lines or wrinkles. I definitely don’t want any of that. Of course, I’ve accepted that skin aging is now faster at my age but I’d still want healthy skin and I want it to age ‘gracefully’.

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I’ve purchased 2 more Mario Badescu (pronounced bah-des-kooh) items from Luxola: Orange Protective Cream and Seaweed Night Cream. These are my third and fourth items from MB; first 2 are Silver Powder and Temporary Lifting Mask, also purchased from my favorite online beauty shop, Luxola. I loved those 2 products so I continued to explore more items from the same brand.

I was looking for a hydrating and rich-textured moisturiser to use at night because I sleep in air-conditioned room. Seaweed contains natural anti-aging properties, moisturises the skin, and contains essential fatty acids (EFA) that help in maintaining elasticity and suppleness of the skin. I don’t really like eating seaweed but I won’t mind it on my skincare regimen, haha!

Like the other MB products I’ve tried, the Seaweed Night Cream comes in the exact packaging of white plastic jar, capped with white protective seal. The compact jar contains the cream which is almost full to the rim. You need to be a bit careful when removing the seal. Remove it while the jar is on a flat surface to avoid more cream sticking to the seal.

Mario Badescu Seaweed Night Cream

Price: RM77.00

Size: 1 oz

Made in USA

Life after opening – 6 months

Where to buy: www.luxola.com.my

The Seaweed Night Cream comes in a mint green color, owing to the ingredients of this product. It has a rich texture, making it easy to apply evenly on the skin. So don’t worry about the greenish color as it will not show at all after the cream is absorbed. It has a mild scent, not floral or anything, but something that reminds me of lipsticks, which will also dissipate in a minute.

mario-badescu-skin-care-night-cream-before-after-application

Here’s my face before and after applying MB Seaweed Night Cream for the first time. See that there’s a noticeable shine on the face after application. As mentioned, the cream is rich, and it leaves a film of oil or sheen. So if you have oily skin, I wouldn’t recommend this product as you might feel uncomfortable. I have normal-oily skin combination but air-conditioned rooms tend to make my skin feel dry so this texture is just nice for me overnight.

After 2 weeks of use, I can say that it works great in keeping my skin hydrated and moisturized every night. The product doesn’t promise repair but it did its job of hydration, keeps my skin smooth and protects from early signs of aging. Do you experience waking up to tight, dry skin in the morning? This night cream does wonders overnight.

You can also check out an old video of Martha Stewart talking about Mario Badescu products via YouTube, click HERE.

More about Mario Badescu Seaweed Night Cream

BENEFITS:

Hydrates the skin while you sleep with this lightweight, oil-free night cream. Elastin, Collagen, and Hyaluronic Acid combined with the vitamins and minerals found in Bladderwrack Extract to nourish dehydrated skin. The result is smooth, dewy, younger-looking skin overnight.

HOW TO USE:

Every night, after cleansing your face, applying toner and serum, take a pea-size amount of the Seaweed Night Cream and apply evenly on the face, neck and decollete. Sleep well and observe your skin when you wake up in the morning 🙂

WHAT’S INSIDE:

Aqua (Water,Eau), Glycerin, Isopropyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol, Fucus Vesiculosus Extract, Hydrolyzed Elastin, Collagen, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer,Carbomer,Parfum (Fragrance),Sodium Chloride,Phenoxyethanol,Potassium Sorbate,Methylparaben,Propylparaben,Sodium Benzoate,Triethanolamine,Diazolidinyl Urea,Mica,CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide),CI 19140 (Yellow 5),CI 42090 (Blue 1),CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Green)

Explore and shop for amazing beauty items online:

http://www.luxola.com.my

Stay connected to Luxola Malaysia via their Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/LuxolaMalaysia

Check out Mario Badescu brand site at:

http://www.mariobadescu.com

Check out my product reviews for other Mario Badescu products:

Temporary Lifting Mask

Silver Powder

Happy New Year! Top Product Picks from 2014

Posted on January 1, 2015 by CelesteDeJesus

It has been a great year and as I welcome 2015, I’m just happy to acknowledge the wonderful products that I’ve tested in the past 12 months…

I’ve chosen the top reviews and products that I’ve enjoyed the most from last year, 2014. And if you’re visiting my blog for the first time, I hope you’ll enjoy the article that you’ve landed on 🙂

Top Eye Makeup – NARS Eye Paint + Dual-Eyeshadow

I can’t get enough of NARS and I can’t even choose just 1 eye product from this brand to be my top

choice. Nars eye paint has become a daily part of my eye makeup. It’s just so versatile; works as a liner; works great for smokey eyes; works as an eyeshadow…perfect for me.

Nars Dual Eyeshadow is amazing. It can be used with both wet and dry application, giving more edge on how you build eye effect with just 1 or 2 shades. Every time I use any Nars product, I feel like a pro.

Top New Makeup Brand Entry – Makeup Revolution London

I just recently reviewed its Eyeshadow Palette in Acid Brights and I’m really impressed, considering that this brand sells very affordable products. The color payoff is superb so if you’re looking for more impact with your color play, this affordable eye makeup brand is highly recommendable. They have a great range of lovely lipsticks, too!

Top Face Powder – Givenchy Prisme Libre

Who would have thought that I’d explore loose powder? I’ve been using compact powder and liquid foundation for the past X years but this extremely stylish loose powder is irresistible. Powder texture is perfect and does wonders on the face.

Top Lipstick – M.A.C. Rihanna Viva Glam Lipstick

I had a total of 3 MAC lipsticks this year (I think) but I loved this one the most. Firstly, I adore the matte red finish of the tube, which is a step sexier than the usual MAC tube. And, of course, the lip color itself is simply kick*ss. Wear whenever, wherever; it adds style to your look. This red shade has shimmer effect and looks even better for evening wear!

Top Moisturiser – Shizens Replenish Nutrient Expert

This moisturiser restores elasticity of the skin and stimulates collagen production. It has an unusual color but I love how it works on my face and neck. In just 3 days of using this, there’s a significant result on the texture and suppleness of the skin. It’s a great anti-aging cream!

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Top Sunblock – Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock

This is my perfect companion for the year in my fight against photo-aging. I love the sheer finish, which also makes it great on the face, even with makeup. It has a non-sticky texture and works for both body and face. Affordable, too!

Top Face Mask – GlamGlow YouthMud

Every time I use this mask, I just keep falling in love with it again. It’s not surprising at all that a lot of celebrities are also captivated by this product. The immediate effect on the skin is amazing, right after a 20-minute treatment with this mask. It’s addictive but, of course, I put a 3-day interval between uses. Oh, can’t wait to use it again in the next 3 days!

Top dark spot solution – Clinique Dark Spot Corrector

Sun exposure definitely takes a toll on our skin eventually. It’s a never-ending battle against photo-aging but with the right product, our skin will have better defences and cure, too! This Clinique product reduced my spots effectively, used together with the brightening cream.

Top Fragrance – Valentino Valentina EDP

My husband gave this as a Christmas present in 2013 and I am so in love with it. The fragrance is of floral notes; I love floral notes! And the bottle design is chic, so beautiful to see in my vanity cabinet.

Top beauty workshop – Dior with Women’s Weekly

I love attending beauty workshops when I get the chance and among the ones that I’ve attended, this is the best one. The event was done efficiently and beautifully. Venue was great, food served was delicious, workshop was fun and educational, guests were treated highly, products are amazing and the Dior & Women’s Weekly team were just amazing.

Top beauty shopping Site – Luxola

Luxola has really made beauty shopping convenient and fun. I’ve been frequently exploring new brands to try and I still enjoy the feeling of surprise every time I receive a Luxola parcel. The brands they carry are worth exploring, such as SkinInc, Miriness and affordable makeup tools like Sigma and Zoeva. Promotions make Luxola shopping even more irresistible. Service is fast and efficient, why wouldn’t I shop?

Top Hair Care – Watsons Argan Oil

My hair can get very dry and lifeless so I need hair products that provide damage repair and nourishment. I guess my rebounding sessions have made my hair dry and weak. I love this Watsons Argan Oil hair care range, which is also affordable.

top-hair-accessories-headbands-sereni-shentel

Top Hair Accessories – Sereni & Shentel Fashionable Headbands

This brand is simply unique, creative and beautiful. The headband designs and styles range from classy, fun, elegant, simple, colourful, surprising and more. The way Sereni and Shentel brought head piece concepts to life is catchy and captivating. It even has collection for babies, too! When I first saw photos of its different collections for babies, kids and women, I adored the brand.

Top female shoe brand – Charles & Keith

Charles & Keith has been great on my feet. I love their designs, I love the material and my feet love their shoes. I often get sore feet or some discomfort with other brands but not from C&K. Their shoes are durable, lasts long and stylish. I enjoy wearing wedges and C&K has one of the best collections that change every season. The bags are worth buying, too.

Top kids’ shoes brand – Stride Rite

I’m a shoe-aholic and I also enjoy shopping shoes for my son. Stride Rite is the best brand I’ve bought for him. The shoes last very long, even the washable ones after regular washing. It’s very comfortable and my son enjoys wearing them.

Top wine provider – Wine Talk

Wine is one of the few addictive things in life that I enjoy and I particularly love Wine Talk when it comes to looking for or buying wines. Wines are easy to find and order online via its website, and the wines will be delivered straight to your doorstep. Simple and easy.

So these are my top picks from 2014! I am looking forward to more products and services to try this year. 2015, let’s make it even better, more exciting and more fun!

Win a Car with L’Oreal Paris Beauty Countdown!

Posted on November 20, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

Love shopping for beauty products? Would you like to win a brand new car? Who doesn’t?!

This has got to be the most exciting year-end! L’Oreal is giving away daily, weekly prizes and a brand new car worth over RM100,000!

It’s the season of gifts and this means it’s the season for shopping! Whether you’re buying gifts for your friends, your loved ones or for yourself, this contest is definitely great for you. After all, who wouldn’t want to win prizes after shopping?

L’Oreal Paris is running its Beauty Countdown Contest from 1st November until 31st December 2014 —- that’s 10 weeks of Beauty Thrills! L’Oreal is giving away amazing daily and weekly prizes over the next 10 weeks to reward highest spenders! If you spend the most overall on L’Oréal Paris products by 31st December 2014, you’ll drive home our Grand Prize – a brand new car worth over RM100,000!

There are so many prizes at stake for L’Oreal Paris lovers:

Daily – RM100 worth of hamper x 3

loreal-beauty-products-skincare-foundation-makeup-oil

Weekly – Mystery Prize such as kitchen appliances and Poh Kong Jewellery

loreal-paris-beauty-countdown-mystery-prizes

GRAND PRIZE – A car worth over RM100,000

(Image is only for reference – but this is quite a cute and cool car!)

SIMPLE STEPS ON HOW TO ENTER:

Spend over RM20 on L’Oréal Paris products
Log on to www.lorealbeautycountdown.com.my
Upload a photo of your receipt
Answer the question: Which country does the brand L’Oreal Paris come from?
Accept the Terms and Conditions
Press ENTER and you’re on your way to winning beautiful prizes!

how-to-join-loreal-paris-beauty-countdown

Shop more to increase your chances of winning and keep submitting your entries. Time to start filling up your shopping list with L’Oreal Paris products: lip colors, foundation, eye shadow, skincare, shampoo, conditioner, extraordinary oil…so many exciting products to choose from!

prizes-to-win-from-loreal-paris-contest-malaysia

Important:

This contest is open to all Malaysian residents older than 18 years of age as of 1st November 2014 with a valid MyKad and address in Malaysia.

For complete terms and conditions, click HERE

My 8 Festive Gift Picks from Crabtree & Evelyn

Posted on November 8, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

Let’s keep the Holiday Gifts ideas rolling…here are more gift sets that I came across with! Oh, excited to go Christmas shopping!

crabtree-evelyn-christmas-festive-gift-set-hand-therapy

My Pick #1:

Big Top Twelve Hand Therapy Musical Tin

RM288 – contains Hand Therapy 25g x 12

This wonderful and entertaining gift contains twelve of much-loved and ultra-moisturising Hand Therapy creams. Rich and decoratively presented in the 2014 Seasonal Spectacular designed collectable musical tin, which features a traditional wind-up mechanism on the base and plays Sleigh Ride by Leroy Anderson. I think this can be a great set to buy if you want to give something to a group of friends or colleagues. Price for 12 pieces will only be around RM24 each and you get to keep the collectible musical tin!

Contains:

Rosewater Hand Therapy 25g

Nantucket Briar Hand Therapy 25g

Gardeners Hand Therapy 25g

La Source Hand Therapy 25g

Summer Hill Hand Therapy 25g

Citron, Honey & Coriander Hand Therapy 25g

Lavender Hand Therapy 25g

Pomegranate, Argan & Grapeseed Hand Therapy 25g

Evelyn Rose Hand Therapy 25g

Lily Hand Therapy 25g

Tarocco Orange, Eucalyptus & Sage Hand Therapy 25g

Verbena & Lavender de Provence Hand Threrapy 25g

Large decorative wind-up Musical Tin

crabtree-evelyn-christmas-festive-gift-set-hand-therapy-6

My Pick #2:

Scentsational Six Hand Therapy Musical Tin

RM158 – contains Hand Therapy 25g x 6

This one is half of my first pick. Give the gift of soft, smooth and supple hands with C&E’s Hand Therapy in 6 favourite fragrances, beautifully presented in the 2014 Seasonal Spectacular designed collectable musical tin, which also features a traditional wind-up mechanism on the base and plays Sleigh Ride by Leroy Anderson.

Contains:

Nantucket Briar Hand Therapy 25g

Rosewater Hand Therapy 25g

Pomegranate, Argan & Grapeseed Hand Therapy 25g

Gardeners Hand Therapy 25g

La Source Hand Therapy 25g

Lavender Hand Therapy 25g

Decorative wind-up Musical Tin

crabtree-evelyn-christmas-festive-la-source-bath-body-set

My Pick #3:

La Source Bath & Body Duo

RM140 – contains a body wash and body lotion

Perfect gift for everyone and anyone who enjoys bathing! Give the gift of silky soft and wonderfully scented skin this Christmas with a decoratively presented La Source Bath & Body Duo gift set. With a relaxing, green marine fragrance reminiscent of the sea, La Source Shower Gel gently cleanses and refreshes, while La Source Body Lotion moisturises and conditions the skin.

Contains:

Relaxing Body Wash 250ml

Relaxing Body Lotion 250ml

Seasonal Spectacular design Gift Box

Fragrance: A crisp, clean scent of refreshing aquatic notes, musk, and gentle shoreline breezes.

crabtree-evelyn-christmas-festive-gift-nantucket-briar

My Pick #4:

Nantucket Briar Bath & Body Duo

RM150 – contains shower gel and scented body lotion

Give the gift of silky soft and wonderfully scented skin this Christmas with this decoratively presented Nantucket Briar Bath & Body Duo. With a soft and classic oriental fragrance, the Bath & Shower Gel gently cleanses and conditions, while Body Lotion locks moisture into the skin.

Contains:

Nantucket Briar Bath & Shower Gel 200ml

Nantucket Briar Body Lotion 200ml

Seasonal Spectacular design Gift Box

Fragrance: A blend of briar roses, bergamot, fresh greens, amber and vanilla.

crabtree-evelyn-christmas-festive-gift-set-summer-hill-bath

My Pick #5:

Summer Hill Bath & Body Duo

RM150 – contains shower gel and body lotion

Give the gift of silky soft and wonderfully scented skin this Christmas with this Summer Hill Duo. With a warm and floral fragrance, our Summer Hill Bath & Shower Gel gently cleanses and conditions and Summer Hill Body Lotion locks moisture into the skin.

Contains:

Summer Hill Shower Gel 200ml

Summer Hill Body Lotion 200ml

Seasonal Spectacular design Gift Box

Fragrance: Warm, white floral blend of summer grasses, wildflowers and orchard fruits.

My Pick #6:

Rosewater Bath & Body Duo

RM150 – contains shower gel and body lotion

Brighten this festive season by giving the gift of silky soft and wonderfully scented skin with decoratively presented Rosewater Bath & Body Duo gift set. With a captivating and elegant floral fragrance, Rosewater Bath & Shower gel gently cleanses and conditions, while Rosewater Body Lotion helps lock moisture deep into the skin.

Contains:

Rosewater Bath & Shower Gel 250ml

Rosewater Body Lotion 245ml

Seasonal Spectacular design Gift Box

Fragrance:Captivating rosewater surrounded with light notes of violet, florals, and musk.

crabtree-evelyn-christmas-festive-gift-set-porcelain-diffuser

My Pick #7:

Porcelain Diffuser 180ml

RM230

Wouldn’t you want to smell the holidays in the air? Indulge in the continuous and celebratory fragrance of Noël with elegantly designed porcelain bird-shaped diffuser. A captivatingly decorative and festively scented addition to any home for the Christmas season, the porcelain bird is designed to draw in the oil and diffuse the fragrance into the room. Look at that adorable bird! Would be very nice to have that on the coffee or side table.

crabtree-evelyn-christmas-festive-gift-porcelain-diffuser-home

A great holiday season centerpiece

Porcelain bird-shaped diffuser

Exquisite fragrance without flames

Allow 24-36 hours for the fragrance to start to diffuse into the room

Fragrance: Irresistible festive blend of fresh balsams, persimmon and citrus fused with spicy star anise, clove and nutmeg.

crabtree-evelyn-christmas-festive-gift-scented-candle

My Pick #8:

Large Poured Candle

RM150

Create a luxurious glow and ambiance in anybody’s home for the holiday season with this festively fragrant Hollyberry candle. Presented in a beautifully bold frosted purple jar, this Hollyberry Poured Candle will decorate the home with the festive, warm and welcoming scent of just-cut foliage, plump wild fruits and trails of inviting spices. Inspired by crimson berries and fresh, green leaves, this fruity fragrance captures the magic of winter with red currant, fig and frankincense notes. And simply because I just love the color purple, this gift immediately caught my attention.

Provides a long-lasting scent

Beautiful frosted purple glass

Presented in an elegant Crabtree & Evelyn signature festive box

Approximately 45 hours of total burn time

Fragrance: Hollyberry is a festive fruity fragrance that captures the magic of winter with red currant, fig and frankincense notes infused with crimson berries and fresh, green leaves.

And I just love this season’s gift box designs. It’s very different from the simple, floral C&E boxes.

crabtree-evelyn-christmas-festive-gift-boxes

All these gift sets are in limited availability and stocks within Malaysia. For stocks and prices, check with a Crabtree & Evelyn shop near you.

Photos and gift details captured from Crabtree & Evelyn UK site

Celeste de Jesus

Beauty, Lifestyle, Health, Fitness and Other Addictive Stuff

Tag Archives: skincare

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Happy New Year! Top Product Picks from 2014

Win a Car with L’Oreal Paris Beauty Countdown!

My 8 Festive Gift Picks from Crabtree & Evelyn

Scentsational Six Hand Therapy Musical Tin