White Milk

This is going to be one lengthy post as I will review not only one, but two latest products from 3 Concept Eyes as known as 3CE, a sub-brand by Stylenanda primarily focused on beauty. Luckily, I discovered this Korean cosmetics wholesaler who enables me to try out these particular 3CE products 'cause you know, they're not available locally in Jakarta.

3CE White Milk Pack To Foam & 3CE White Milk Sleeping Mask.

Can't we just scream for the cutest packaging ever done by 3CE?

Talk about details.

A hologram sticker attached to each packaging which symbolizes the originality of the brand.

Although 3CE is well-known for its sophisticated kinda design, this time they really prove their breakthrough in Korean market with their cutesy whitening products. Called as White Milk, their first skincare range focuses on skin whitening as if people are madly craving for a brighter skin. True that I'm one of those people who ain't satisfied with my uneven skin tone, and that's why I opt for a whitening product haha.. I have always had issues with my dull complexion, but I tried to be realistic that it takes effort and time as typical whitening products promise nothing instant. Hmm.. Unless their White Milk Cream, that one's supposed to be called a magic cream!

3CE White Milk Pack To Foam

Description: The milk and clay ingredients lift away the impurities deep inside the pores and keep your skin looking clean and clear. The product contains 10,000ppm milk protein and extraction that can remove excess sebum and the impurities deep inside the pores, promoting clean and clear looking skin. The moisture-retaining oatmeal and honey keep skin from drying out, while the tea tree extract helps soothe the skin.

Directions: This white clay mask contains fine particles of bubbles and can be used as both a facial pack and a cleanser.

Combat dead skin cells: Spread an ample amount over face avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 10 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. The rich lather lifts away impurities deep inside the pores. Use once or twice a week.
Refreshing Daily Cleanser: Apply to damp skin and massage in a gentle rolling motion. Work up a lather and rinse with lukewarm water.
Urgent Spot Treatment for the T-zone: Apply an ample amount over the oily T-zone and rinse after 5 minutes. The soft and rich cream throughly cleans those hard-to-reach areas in the T-zone.

My verdict: Let me explain about the unique packaging 3CE has come up with for this clay product. It feels like a toothpaste tube, but thinner. Supposedly, you'll be able to squeeze out until the last product. No more wasted product, plus hygienic! Also, the screw cap is just what I need for a facial foam since you're gonna put it in the shower and water usually just finds its own way to sneak into the cap, am I right? The consistency is creamy, it glides very easily, interestingly lathers up to foamy bubbles, and I can feel how hydrated my skin is afterwards. Though the texture is not as solid as clay, it hardens within minutes when it's applied to dry face. The rinsing process was effortless too, I'd just wash it off with water and wipe everything up. Overall, the after effect of using this as a facial foam or mask is almost the same. Therefore, considering this facial pack as a mask is such a fun regime while showering in the bathroom. Not to mention, it smells like powdered milk, which is a plus point!

3CE White Milk Sleeping Mask

Description: Non-sticky, creamy sleeping mask contains 50% of milk protein extract that moisturizes the skin and brightens complexion overnight. Tea tree extract treats blemishes and evens out overall skin tone while oatmeal and honey protects & strengthen skin's barrier.

Directions: Use in the evening. After cleansing and toning, apply adequate amount evenly over face avoiding lip and eye area. Sleep through the night with the mask on, gently wash off with lukewarm water in the morning.

My verdict: Though the weight and shape of the product is exactly the same with the facial foam, it doesn't come in aluminum tube but plastic. However, the scent of this product is somewhat similar to the facial foam, a powdered milk kind of, but more artificial. I use it at the last step of my nighttime skincare routine, every three-day period. The thick cream consistency remains sticky on the skin, especially oily on the T-zone. While it claims to brighten complexion overnight, I could barely notice any skin tone improvement the morning I woke up, seriously. Other than my face being extra moisturized and supple, I don't think it shows a significant result. But I'm happy that this hydrating sleeping mask doesn't break me out! It's hard to find one, you know. I guess that's due to the tea tree formula, yet amazingly, there is no a hint of herbal scent at all.

Price: USD 21.

Use my code T717MH2M8NU to get 8% discount at bbcosmetic.com. The discount code will only be valid within this month, so hurry fill up your cart!

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Woohoo! I'm beyond thrilled to present you a new look on my blog! Over the past few years, I've always wanted to revamp this blog because the previous template looked too dull no matter how much I tried to customize it. The decision of doing a total blog makeover was never easy. Not until recently, when I was in the middle of nothingness and suddenly had this random thought, "Why don't I purchase a pre-made template and give it a shot?" So I spent hours and hours browsing around Etsy, projecting if those particular themes would fit Oh Dear Bumblebees' image. Just so you know, before the idea of purchasing a template came up, I already browsed the freebies but not a single one I stumbled upon could impress me. I'm an extremely picky person when it comes to design because I know exactly what I want, and finding "the one" while staying within budget was challenging, indeed. Hope you enjoy scrolling down the page as much as I do!

Berry AHA!

Greetings, bumblebees! So if you have noticed, a few months ago I changed this blog header in pursuit of rebranding my beauty journal, while in actual fact I just couldn't commit to a specific topic and even talked about something else aside from beauty. Therefore, I sort of wanted to remake a new header without binding myself into a particular niche blog. You may now expect a fashion, lifestyle report or perhaps random chats from me! 

Here we go again to beauty related post, this time it's about a not-so-new-anymore toner from Etude House called Berry AHA! Bright Peel Boosting Serum. Phew.. What an eye-catching name! I think this was released earlier this year along with their Toning White C line in which I have zero interest with.

Etude House Berry AHA! Bright Peel Boosting Serum.

Description: The first-step peeling essence for skincare removes dead skin cells and impurity residue daily.

Directions: After washing the face, at the first step of skincare, dispense an appropriate amount on a cotton pad and apply on the face in the direction of skin texture, starting from the inside and working outward in a gentle blotting motion.

My question was "is it toner, is it serum?" when I first saw this product (I didn't know their description in the beginning). Obviously it's called serum but it looks too watery from the outside, yes? We know that toner is the first step, meanwhile serum is supposed to be used at the last step of your skincare routine. Thanks to Google, uh I mean Etude House website (or should I say my meticulous research before purchasing every skincare item?), I bought the right product for my need.

Click here to zoom.

I've always had a thing with AHA ingredients simply because it's known to be great at rejuvenating. The only downside of wearing AHA is that your skin can get extra sensitive to sunlight, thus a sunscreen is a must (thought it's always a must all the time). This boosting serum has salicylic acid too in it! That seriously surprised me because I was presuming this line would only concern at peeling or brightening the skin.

Packaging wise, it's kind of sleek despite its name. Moreover, considering it comes from Etude House who always gives such cutesy atmosphere to their product, I think this one maybe intended for more matured target market. Haha.. I might be wrong too. Anyway, I like how secured the seal (picture below), so bravo Etude House for the consideration. I still remember their Wonder Pore toner didn't include such seal to prevent leakage. However, the outlet of this bottle is too small for the product to come off. Because texture wise, it's not as watery as usual toner (now the name boosting serum makes sense). The liquid is thicker than water, it seems like it contains a teeny tiny jelly-like substance.

Nice security seal you got over there.

Scent wise, it smells fruity with minty tinge. It doesn't only feel sweet but refreshing. I don't know how bilberry fruit's supposed to smell, but it definitely has the kind of smell that doesn't bother me at all. Performance wise, as a toner, I can say I was impressed for the immediate effect. It moisturizes my skin and on top of that, it gives me this silicone effect, you know? Yeah, they do use a synthetic skin conditioning agent and surfactant belonging to the chemical class of siloxanes and silicones. No wonder the instantly smooth skin. However, the good thing, it doesn't break me out.

In conclusion, I might finish it all since I totally enjoy the immediate result. Umm.. But you know me, when it comes to cosmetics, I always want to explore, try new things, and whatnot. That's why I'm here for you guys ;) To review more and more exciting products!

Price: IDR 210k

The Wonders of Tea Tree Water

[Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received the product for a review purpose, but the opinions are my own based on my experience.]

Benton Honest TT Mist.

Description: Benton Honest TT Mist is made of tea tree water instead of water. This mist contains hyaluronic acid and various beauty ingredients to help improve your rough and damaged skin from stress and pollution with moisturizing and cooling effect.

Directions: When you spray to your skin directly, spray about 30cm distances and then softly pat your face to help your skin to absorb the product. You can use your palm or cotton pad.

Further information about ingredients and warning.

If you haven't already read my review on the other Benton Honest skincare, you might probably wonder why I use Benton as I was reluctant about the brand before. Anyway, I've been quite interested in this product as I need something that can moisturize my skin without making it oily. Talk about balance! Especially when my skin is a bit oily on the T-zone.

This Honest TT Mist actually claims that it can benefit all skin type, such as problematic skin, dry/ oily skin, and even sensitive skin. With tea tree plant as the main ingredient, we all know how great the healing power tea tree has, which makes it a popular natural acne treatment ingredient. I personally had a bad experience using tea tree oil back then in junior school, my hormonal acne became even worse after religiously applying tea tree oil from The Body Shop to my affected skin. That what made me think twice to try this, but a girl gotta do what a girl gotta do. Skincare is all about trial and error!

Glossy plastic tube.

The spray nozzle.

Packaging wise, I like the fact it doesn't come in a can bottle and the small size is perfect for traveling. The water that comes from the nozzle supposed to be fine mist, but in real life, it's a bit too harsh. I mean if you compare it to Avène Eau Thermale Spring Water, that's how a fine mist should've appeared. They claim about 250 times sprays usage. I've been using this product since January every day and night, and do around 5 sprays each usage, now it still have maybe like 8ml left on the tube.

Scent wise, it has no scent! How surprising. I was expecting something herbal but there's none and I seriously love it. Imagine how weird it would be to spray something scented to your face! Well, I do smell something a very tiny bit that I can't even explain what it is, but I'm sure it's nothing like perfume. Which in the end, makes me really believe there's no added fragrance in this product.

Performance wise, the texture is like water, and I spray it directly to my face, then pat it with my palms. I use it as my secondary toner, my current primary toner is from The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava (which is a nice product, however I'm not going to repurchase). The mist feels soothing on skin and also hydrating at the same time, another great thing is, it keeps my acne at bay *greatest feeling ever* ^^

All in all, although the spray packaging kind of disappoints me, the product works like wonder. I'm absolutely going to repurchase it, because mine is going to run out soon! You can get yours at Jolse.

Price: USD 8.48

P.S: Have you joined my Pre-Spring giveaway? This time, I'm collaborating with Firmoo giving away a pair of sunglasses of your choice. Other than that, there are also 5 $10 vouchers. Hurry go check it out :P

Fresh Start

It's a new year! Hope that everyone's had a wonderful start to 2016. As I want to stick to one of my new year's resolutions which is "Less makeup, more skincare." I've started to change my skincare routine and found this rave on the market, it is from Benton. Yes, when we're talking about Benton, it's not going to be easy since there are mixed reviews and so on. Please rest assured that this post is not a sponsored review at all. I bought the product with my own money and conscience after loads of researching.

I was very skeptical about this brand before, until one day, Alice of W2Beauty personally convinced me to try the samples, I believe it was the Aloe BHA Skin Toner if I'm not mistaken. She explained about Benton background issue and the company's solution to the trouble occurred. So after the reconsideration, I tried their samples, and I was beyond glad I didn't get weird reaction. I mean, my skin was just fine. I'm thankful that Alice contacted me, because if she didn't do that I'm pretty sure I wouldn't test Benton product, not even a single of it. I myself was too biased towards the bad reviews.

This is just my story, to be honest though, skincare is about trial and error in a battlefield. I don't want to jinx, but my skin has been reacting so far so great. This cleansing foam is not the only fighter, I get facial every month, I have my own at-home spa as a little treat to myself at least every twice a week. It wasn't easy nor inexpensive. But at the end, the effort feels super worth it.

Benton Honest Cleansing Foam.

Description: In order to have a healthy face wash, Benton Honest Cleansing Foam cleanses fatigued skin caused by various stress and pollution. This natural cleansing foam not only cleanses your face but further moisturizes your skin to minimize dryness of your skin.

Further information about ingredients and warning.

With a lot of research before buying this product, there were too many mixed reviews about it and somehow made me wonder if it's worth the gambling. Last year there was a hype called "Low pH Cleanser", as if it's a big deal you should get a low pH one in order to avoid dehydration of the skin. 

While I'm already familiar with products that claim "pH balanced" for the skin, I was confused if the low pH ones would do good. Apparently, there's no big difference in using low pH cleanser since it will disrupt our skin acid mantle just as higher pH cleanser will. The surprising fact is, low pH cleanser may consist more chemicals, because it 'needs' chemical to be mixed into the formulation so that the product reaches the desired pH level. Moreover, it's not the pH level that matters, but the ingredients after all. The point is, your skin don't get irritated simply because the pH level is too acidic or too alkaline.

I don't own an at-home pH testing kit, but based on my research, this cleansing foam ranges around 8. It only use natural surfactants that are extracted from palm oil, also consists no harmful ingredients. The product is meant for secondary cleansing, so don't expect it can break down waterproof properties such as tinted eyebrow gel. LOL. Besides, it's 2016, double cleanse, will ya?

Thanks Benton for providing the details in English.

Pearly white cream with non-addition of chemical coloring.

My skin is oily combination, oily T-zone and normal on the rest to be exact. Just so you know, I'm the type of person who dislikes it when my skin feels tight or overly moisturized after washing off. This cleansing foam leaves the kind of feeling in between that, feels so right. It makes my skin squeaky clean without stripping my skin at all. The foam lathers easily too! Thrice a week on the day I wear heavier makeup, I'd wash my face with Pobling Premium Pore Sonic Cleanser, letting all the stubborn excess makeup and dead skin come out.

Scent wise, it smells soapy. At first I needed to get used because my recent one smelt so different (I used up two Holika Holika Volcanic Pore Purifying Deep Cleansing Foam, which was an amazing record for someone like me). I've been considering to use this Honest Cleansing Foam in the long run too. That may difficult for someone who gets bored easily and always tends to explore new stuffs out there. However, if the cleanser will continue doing good to my skin just like now, I think I'll have to stop with the gambling game.

Price: IDR 130k

I've been seriously committed to my new year's resolution. As I said earlier, I'll reduce my expense on my makeup. Not that I'm not enjoying makeup, I just want to have a better canvas, meaning a smooth healthy skin so that my makeup would look more flawless and of course, I'm a sucker for "natural look, but not really". LOL.

Here is my go-to minimal makeup, which is super easy to create. Did I say I've been indulging cream texture makeup lately? I'm giving a special shoutout to Etude House Play 101 Stick. It gives glow to the skin, comes in handy (no pun intended) yet doesn't break me out.

Face:

• Laneige BB Cushion in natural beige
• Bourjois Healthy Mix Concealer
• Etude House Play 101 Stick Contour Duo
• Etude House Play 101 Stick in #12
• Holika Holika Sweet Cotton Pore Cover Powder

Eyes:

• EOS Rainshower in gray
• The Face Shop Designing Eyebrow in gray brown
• Koji Spring Heart Eyeshadow in mocha
• Innisfree Eco Gel Eyeliner in brown

Lips:

• Peripera Peri's Tint Water in pink juice
• Peripera Peri's Tint Milk in milky pink

My Kind of Beauty Mask + Mini Giveaway

Though a sheet mask a day challenge may come overwhelming, I believe there are many benefits a sheet mask may offer. In order to achieve a healthy glowing skin, there must be a lot of efforts in it, one of them is using a face mask routinely. My regime isn't that complicated, I wear these masks right after I cleanse my face and dab my toner (with a cotton pad) before putting it. Just never use any kind of face mask on a dirty skin! That's something that always irks me whenever I see beauty vloggers demonstrate face mask on their full of makeup skin. What's the point?

Primera Clear-Up Seed and Sprout Energy Mask

I honestly never tried any other Primera products besides its sheet mask. There was this 10+10 promo when I visited the store in Myeongdong, so I bought it. Turns out it's so good and I regret not buying more. They use an unbleached organic cotton sheet. Performance wise, after leaving it for 15-20 minutes, it left my face smooth and hydrated, even for the following day.

Innisfree Trouble Care Skin Solution Mask

The trouble care uses propolis as its main ingredients, and I thought it would leave a sticky feeling afterwards. However, thankfully it's not despite the honey properties. What I like about Innisfree mask is that they use unbleached pure cotton just like Primera since it's an eco-friendly product.

Too Cool For School Pumpkin Sleeping Pack

I am not a big fan of sleeping mask because they tend to excessively moisten my oily-combination skin, but this one is an exception! Not only it has a powdery scent, it makes my face smooth, and feels light on my skin overnight, really. I don't wake up with so much glow either.

The Face Shop Red Ginseng Real Nature Mask 

Korea is well-known for its own red ginseng which is very healthy for the body. Apparently, this mask sheet contains extract of six year-old Korean red ginseng rich in saponin, a supplement to care for tired and languid skin. How great is that? It's just I have to warn you that the mask has a strong woody scent and the essence isn't transparent or white like in the usual face masks you may find. It has brownish tinge, so I suggest you to wash your face after you're done with it.

Beyond Beyond The Real Tea Tree Mask

And the most favorite tea tree mask sheet award goes to Beyond! It smells refreshing, fits my face perfectly and thankfully we have the physical store here in Indonesia though I am not sure right now if I'm going to stock them since the price would be quite high. Sigh...  

Nature Republic Snail Hydrogel Mask Sheet

It's true that Korean has such an impressive beauty rage, snail slime is only one of them. I think it's early this year that snail slime has become the hottest ingredients in skin care. Yes, apparently snail has healing properties and anti-bacterial benefits for the skin. The essence from this mask was abundant, there was some leftover so apply it on my neck and hands, plus the mask didn't even dry out after 20 minutes.

Innisfree Intensive Ampoule Mask [BHA]

I think I'm a bit attached with Innisfree when it comes to skincare. Well, BHA is a great companion if you have particularly oily, acne prone skin. It is well known that BHA has anti-inflammatory action. So that's why I befriend with it.  This mask is pretty unique as there are 2 part of it, one is the ampoule and the other one is the mask sheet itself. I noticed my irritated skin was looking better after application. Such a great thing to stock on. Too bad I didn't buy much back then in Korea.

Holika Holika After Sauna Mask Sheet

Actually, the shape of this face mask a wee too big for me, and I wish the nose part could be made longer to fit me well. However, I really love the packaging, especially the back side where I can put notes, and it will be a cute gift for anyone. Because they have so many themes for this mask, such as before an interview, before a date (LOL), after drinking, after taking a trip, after hard study, and whatnot. This after sauna mask is supposed to be a pore care, I spot cucumber extract as one of the ingredients.

The Face Shop BeBe Lip Mask

Having chapped lips won't flatter any lipstick I wear, so once I'm done scrubbing my lip (I use e.l.f Lip Exfoliator), I'll just apply this on my lips. It'll make my lips more moisturized than wearing just normal lipbalm.

Annie's Way Lavender Relaxing Jelly Mask

Uh, I really want to know where you guys can get this mask in Jakarta! Its jelly texture makes me don't want to take off the mask. The cooling effect is just what I really need for a morning mask. Maybe anyone of you bumblebees know where I can get this?

*coughs* 'Cause you know, sharing is caring and Christmas is also around the corner, feels like a perfect time for a giveaway, right? I want to share some of my favorite mask with you, I hope the prize would be interesting enough for you to join :D

My mini giveaway banner. Do save and share ^^

What's in it?

• Primera Clear-Up Seed and Sprout Energy Mask
• The Face Shop Red Ginseng Real Nature Mask
• The Face Shop BeBe Lip Mask
• Etude House Pearl Aura Brightening Essence Lotion (sample)
• TonyMoly Panda's Dream White Magic Cream (sample)
• Too Cool For School Pumpkin Sleeping Pack (sample)
• Too Cool For School McGirly Come Clean Facial Wash (sample)

You've only got to follow these simple steps:

1. The giveaway will only be sent to Indonesian address only.
2. Fill in the Rafflecopter to entry.
3. Follow me via Google Friend Connect. Kindly find the widget on my left sidebar.
4. Or follow me via Bloglovin' for another point.
5. Let your friends know. Put the giveaway banner + link to this post on your blog. It's also an optional rule for a plus point that you can submit everyday.
6. I do want to know what kind of face mask do you regularly use or find it interesting. Tell me on the comment below as I want to explore new stuffs :D
7. The giveaway will end on Thursday, 31 December (GMT +7).
8. I will personally e-mail to notify you and update this post with the winner name on the first day of 2016. If you don't e-mail me back in 2x24 hours, then I will pick another winner.

♡ ♡ ♡ GOOD LUCK! ♡ ♡ ♡

No More Wondering

[Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received the product for a review purpose, but the opinions are my own based on my experience.]

Happy Halloween, bumblebees! What are you guys planning to do this weekend? I'll be as usual spending quality time at the salon. Two months left 'til new year, I still have no idea whether my 2015 resolutions have been all completed. But one thing for sure, I've visited the places I've always dreamed since my teenage year. Couldn't be more grateful :)

Anyway, back to skincare review. I'm now more careless about my skin, I don't really wear toner nor moisturizer in real life. Promise I will change this bad tendency before it becomes a habit. That's the reason why it took me awhile to review this product that was sent by Jolse. It's my all time favorite Korean brand and their famous skincare line, Etude House Wonder Pore. I believe this was a new release in early 2015. Well, actually, I got this awhile ago, and even brought it to LA.

Etude House Wonder Pore Tightening Essence.

Descriptions: This is a pore essence that tightens pores for smooth and firm pores. Cleans pores, tightens pores, controls moist/oil balance, weak acid pH control. Therefore, makes fine smooth pores.

Directions: After using Freshner, get appropriate amount and spread on your face.

Product's ingredients. I notice a few types of silicones.

Cute drawings as expected from Etude House.

Packaging wise, it's always adorable and the plastic bottle is sturdy and made of high quality plastic, I love the pump packaging because it works wonder to prevent leaking. There was no leakage problem while I was traveling with it. 

Onto the texture and performance, the essence is thicker than I expected it to be. Surprisingly, it absorbs super fast and leaves no greasy residue on skin. It's a gel-like cream and able to cover small pores on my cheek. Another great thing, the alcohol smell isn't as intense as their Freshner. There's no stingy sensation upon application though it has alcohol in its main ingredients.

Thick gel texture.

Blends out so easily and instantly smoothen my skin.

The essence moisturizes my skin well without making it feel sticky. It has some kind of oil control as my oily combination skin turns matte within a minute after application. I like to use it as a primer too as with it my pore looks less visible. Then again, it's only meant for skincare :P 

Price: USD 15.82

Perhaps, one of these Wonder Pore products might appeal to you:

• Whipping Foaming
• Freshner
• Brush

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Practically holding my breath when IU released this song just a day before my birthday! I was twenty three then, and lemme tell ya I can relate a lot to this song. There were many times when I didn't know what I wanted to be or do. It was difficult to envision my life in 5 years, which is confusing! Am I having an early quarter-life crisis?

IU - Twenty-three.

Magic in Nature

[Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received the product for a review purpose, but the opinions are my own based on my experience.]

How are you, bumblebees? I have been contemplating whether I have to just focus on my full time job or also manage my blog at the same time as I need to draft my new year's resolution in no time. Then again, I am not that busy, there are many other people out there who work crazier than me. Thus, I will update my blog no matter what. I can't promise a frequent update, but one sure thing, you'll still see the same or even better quality blogpost from me ;)

Now let me review another product that I picked from Jolse, it's Nature Republic's Magic Remover for Mascara. Btw, go check out their website because they normally have a sale, which is quite a big deal. The new arrivals look intriguing as well, hmm...

Nature Republic Magic Remover For Mascara.

Description: This mascara remover with borago officinalis extract removes powerful eye makeup.

Directions: Shake bottle to mix oil & liquid layers. Soak cotton makeup pad with remover solution. Cover eye region with soaked pad for 20 seconds then wipe makeup clean.

I wish they put the ingredients in English.

Ohh, I am so in need of great eye makeup remover that's gentle to the skin. That's why I chose Nature Republic because I believe it will use natural agent in its formula. As for this one, it uses botanical ingredient called borago officinalis a.k.a star flower (you see the plant in its packaging?) It's believed to have a cooling, diuretic, anti-inflammatory and saline effect on the skin. With such main ingredient, at least it feels safer and gentler to be applied on the skin around eyes since it's more sensitive.

Testing to remove my waterproof eyebrow liquid pen in one swipe.

Performance wise, it doesn't perfectly remove stubborn makeup in just a single swipe. I tried to remove my holy grail Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Brow Color in one swipe and the result is as in above picture. However, it will do its job just fine when I tried removing them again with a few more drops and power. There was once when I had to wear double false eyelashes (yes, I wore two layers of falsies) and the makeup artist put loads of mascara on it, I thought I'd be having troubles removing them. Apparently not! The key was to generously soak the product, don't hesitate to use new cotton pads and separate the excess glue with Q-tips too. You know, my real eyelashes are precious, so I don't want to risk losing one of them. LOL.

What I like about it is it doesn't sting at all, no matter how much of the products you're using. It's not as oily as many oil based makeup remover that I knew. The scent is not overwhelming and just smells nice, nothing is too chemical whatsoever.

Price: USD 8.98

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Girls' Generation - Lion Heart.

The girls are back, bumblebees! I like the cute classy concept in this MV, it somehow reminds me of those old days. Not to mention, the outfit when they're having live performance are never boring. No wonder they dominates the music show by winning 9 times in a row. Which one of their latest singles that you like the most?

Galactomyces Essence

Hey wonderful bumblebees! Happy new year!! First post of the year, I hope I didn't disappoint you for being MIA and abandoning the #BLOGMAS. I'm so sorry. Mianhaeyo~ That's why one of my resolutions this year is to blog more (with quality of course). LOL. Don't you think time flies so fast? A bit too fast than before. Is it only me but it really feels like it passes very quickly after I started blogging last year.

My first post in 2015 is about my favorite facial essence. So I've been using Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence since early 2014, not clearly remember the month, but I did repurchased last December cause I used up the whole bottle!

Well, there are so many other Korean brands out there who produce this galactomyces contained essence actually. I wonder why I picked Secret Key in the first place as it was honestly an impulsive buying back then. This kind of treatment essence wasn't new to me, I tried the one from Missha before, sample size though.

Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence (Limited Edition).

Description: Whitening and anti-wrinkle line which contains 94% galactomyces, one of the yeast ferment filtrates. It is not only the source of the nutrition, but also has an outstanding moisturizing effect for the skin. Free of parabens, animal oils, benzophenone, flavoring, coloring, triethanolamine, mineral oil, phenoxyethanol, alcohol, and sulfates.

Descriptions in Korean and ingredients.

Please note that I don't think this product would work as amazing if I didn't do the other skin regimen such as cleansing, exfoliating, toning, etc. This essence claims to brighten and prevent wrinkles, I do see the brightening effect, but not yet the anti-wrinkle as I'm only in my early 20s. I believe it requires a long term commitment if you want to prove whether it can prevent or reduce the wrinkle.

Let's get to the review, this essence has watery and runny texture so I'd use a cotton pad and just dab it around my face. Some people might think that pouring some into the palm and pat it on the face would save the product more, but well if you're doing it that way, make sure your hands are clean.

The rose edition doesn't have any scent at all! I was surprised 'cause I thought there would be a slight rosey scent at least. On the other hand, the original edition has a quite distinguishable scent, not to the extend it's unpleasant anyways.

Packaging wise, it's made of glass, kind of heavy, therefore I definitely don't recommend this for traveling as 150ml is the only size they have. Not sure if it's going to leak, but it's rather inconvenient for me to bring this stuff.

When I run out of the original STE, I didn't restock it right away because I had to wait for the pre-order. Thus, I stopped using it for awhile, almost a month, and surely there was no sign of breakout. Honestly, I prefer this rose edition because it is odorless and it absorbs to skin more quickly. I think that's because the watery texture, it's not like the other one isn't watery, but the texture of this one is more like real water. Not to mention, the packaging looks exclusive with gold cap.

The rose edition contains 150ml, it's a tad lesser than the original one, 155ml.

It took me like half a year to finish the first bottle. However, these days I've tried to be more generous when it comes to skincare, that's why in this picture you couldn't see the shadow of the remaining essence anymore. I've finished one third of it in just a month. Muahaha!

Price: IDR 185k

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Feels like the K-drama gods are so kind lately. Because all the good looking men are on TV! On Mon-Tue we have this hottie Ji ChangWook. Just new in, Wed-Thu drama we have HyunBin, I have had a huge crush on him since A Millionaire's First Love! And lastly on Friday, with 2 episodes in a day, we have Jaejoongieee aka the most good looking human I've ever seen in person.

Usually when a drama ends, I'd feel sad, the kind of empty feeling you know. However, that wasn't the case for Pinocchio! I did a little talk about the drama before, it was a lovely drama to catch up but I mustn't be the only one who wanted the drama to end a little sooner as I saw HyunBin in those upcoming drama previews, right? x_x Thankfully they aired episode 18 and 19 on the same day so that Hyde, Jekyll, Me would premiere on schedule.

KBS Healer OST:

Michael Learns To Rock - Eternal Love.

Tei - What My Eyes Say.

SBS Hyde, Jekyll, Me OST:

Park BoRam - Falling.

KBS Spy OST:

Jungyup - Shadow.

Zia - Stardust.

Mind to share what are you currently watching in this dramaland? :D

Gift Guide: Workaholic Moms

Greetings, bumblebees! Back with another #BLOGMAS post. On this second #BLOGMAS, I'm going to share a Christmas gift guide for mothers who are working full time; mothers who are basically busy when they're in office and home. Just like my mom. Even when she's home, she would also take care of the housekeeping stuff although we have a maid and sometimes she would bring some 'home works' and get done her another side job. Hmm, but I guess this gift guide isn't restricted to mothers as you can also pick it as a gift for workaholic girlfriends.

1. Ban.do I Am Very Busy iPhone 6 Case
2. Echo Touch - Ruched Leather Mix Gloves
   
3. Yankee Candle Build A Snowman Winter Wonderland Collection 
4. Parker Urban Premium Golden Pearl
   
5. Missha Time Revolution Night Repair Science Activator Ampoule
   
6. Michael Kors Glam Jasmine Deluxe Gift Set
   

I know I know, though Ban.do looks like it's marketed for teens and young adults, I bet workaholic moms couldn't deny that this statement case is absolutely made for them too!

In such cold weather, busy moms will need something to keep them warm while checking on their smartphones. I picked Echo's Touch - Ruched Leather Mix Gloves because these leather-and-knit gloves have special tips at the thumbs and index fingers that allow interaction with touchscreen devices. It looks stylish too, doesn't it?

Being engaged to work makes your body tensed up and we all had been through that moment. For workaholic people, they don't realize this anxiety sometimes. Therefore, a Yankee Candle would be a perfect gift for them. Build A Snowman is described as a playful scent of cool, minty fresh air with the hint of vanilla. But for this, you can prolly ask your mom what's their favorite scent because then again, relaxation would come in minutes if only they enjoy the aroma.

A fountain pen is undoubtedly considered as classy, because it'd give such lovely handwritings. This golden finish pen by Parker definitely looks elegant and if your mom is someone who dearly loves write something on paper instead of PC, I guess this gift couldn't be more perfect.

Based on my observation, when people are busy, they tend to forget to take care of their skin. I might be captivated by Missha's luxurious packaging when I picked this product, but no, in fact this essential ampoule contains glactic acid fermented ingredients to improve skin damages which is purposed for anti-aging and its ingredient contains no irritants. Besides, the price is fairly affordable for its quantity.

When in doubt, pick a gift set. And if you're still doubtful, pick something that is universally needed. Yes yes.. It's none other than fragrance! Glam Jasmine Deluxe Gift Set includes perfume spray, rollerball, and body cream. Especially in a work place where one should not wear heavy perfumes, the rollerball and body cream are just right!

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Hayley Westenra, Russell Watson, and Aled Jones - Twelve Days of Christmas.

Another favorite Christmas carol of mine. The lyrics are fun and it rhymes so playfully. For me personally, the best part is the FIVE golden rings~! LOL! On another note, did anyone realize this? Google bar search will display pine trees and snowfall in the background if you're searching anything with Christmas in the keyword :P

Till next #BLOGMAS, then!

Bija

Welcome, December. Goodbye, November! And hey there, fellow bumblebees! I am back with skincare product review, this time it's from the Korean road shop brand; Innisfree. So yaaay to my first Innisfree review ever! *Wait~ Where have you been, Mitch?* However, before we begin, I'd like to make it clear that this wasn't my first time trying Innisfree product :D I made a purchase of their Jeju Volcanic Nose Pack too, but it was meh, and to be honest I don't really like writing such negativity so I decided not to review it. It was such a shame since the Jeju Volcanic range caught my attention more than the others.

Innisfree Bija Anti-Trouble Facial Foam.

First of all, you must be wondering what Bija is. I googled it and found a wikipedia about Bija and apparently it literally means 'seed'. In this case, Innisfree uses Torreya Seed Oil. If you're interested, here's a picture of the Bija from their website. This nutmeg is a rare ingredient that can only be used after it has endured 20 years of survival in the wild. Its hardy properties allow for the skin to be gently smoothed and for the skin's natural defense system to be enhanced.

What I like about all Innisfree product is that they only use natural derived ingredients and the skincare would usually be free of synthetic colorants, mineral oil, animal-originated ingredients, artificial fragrances, and imidazolidinyl urea. Just like this facial foam!

Sealed and flip cap.

The tube packaging is completely sealed outside with transparent plastic and when I twisted the cap, it was sealed again with aluminum foil for double protection. The shelf life is 12 months after initial opening.

Description, directions, and ingredients.

From creamy to foamy.

With just a pea-size, the thick creamy formula foams easily. It has a pearly white color and smells so organically fresh. It doesn't sting when I'm lathering it around my eye area, there's a slight of minty effect, but it feels so gentle, and does a great job at cleansing. I recommend to use this with facial brush too, because it can perform a better job at cleansing makeup residue.

After rinsing, it left my skin feeling clean and fresh. The only downside is, it gives me that tightness feeling to the normal part of my oily combination skin. I guess those with oily skin will love this facial foam.

Regarding the controlling blemish, yes it works! I don't have a big pimple to begin with *don't jinx!*. But there was a time when I developed some tiny bumps on my forehead as a consequence of threading, and before I put some herbal ointment, I used this facial foam, voila~ on the next day, they disappeared. The herbal ointment doesn't work that amazing usually, though. Oh moreover, this facial foam can control my hormonal acne too.

All in all, it's a nice facial foam with such affordable price for 150ml size that would suit oily skin type with least blemish concern. But would I repurchase it? I'm the type who can't stick to one thing unless I don't find any dislike in it. Therefore, I don't think so, but we'll see :)

Price: IDR 110k

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GOT7 - She's A Monster.

Frankly, I like GOT7 because of Jackson in it. I've never imagined I'd like this guy. He was born in freaking 1994 just so you know! First saw him in the variety show; Roommate season 2, and I thought he was funny, hyperactive, such a dork LOL. Not to mention he looks like ManSe (yes one of those adorably cute triplets, the maknae!) Back to the topic, I have been listening to this song for a week!! It's just one of my favorites from their album, Identify. They recently released a new MV Stop Stop It, but there's something that entertains me more than that, hohoho, yeaaah, the dance practice session... Ok. I feel like a pedonoona now. Bye~!

H2O Cleanser

What's up, my bumblebees? So after I shared my own beauty tips, I feel like reviewing one of my favorite cleansing product. It's Bioderma Sébium H2O that all beauty bloggers have raved about. I wasn't that interested in using water cleansing formula back then before because I thought water can't really dissolve makeup, especially the waterproof ones. But I was wrong! Let me tell you why, just keep reading :D

Bioderma Sébium H2O.

Description: Purify and cleanse your imperfection-prone skin with the Bioderma Sébium H2O, a regulating, non-rinse micellar water cleanser. Designed for those with combination to oily skin, the soap-free formula can be used on the face and other imperfection-prone areas of the body, such as the chest and back. Sébium H2O cleanses the skin in depth, and improves the quality of sebum production with the patented Fluidactiv® complex. The non-comedogenic cleanser removes impurities using micelles, which micro-emulsify and remove impurities without drying the skin out. It guarantees perfect cutaneous tolerance, leaving the skin is left looking clear and feeling fresh.

They say it's sold one in every 15 seconds worldwide, which I think it indicates how good this product is, right? As a cheaper alternative to the Clarins cleansing water, finally I bought the one for combination/oily skin because I have oily combination skin (oily T-zone, the rest are normal).

Ingredients.

Directions: Use twice daily, in the morning and in the evening. Soak a cotton pad with the solution, and cleanse the face and eyes. Repeat with more cotton pads until they come away clean. The solution is no-rinse, but you should gently dab your face with a clean towel after use.

Although it's stated you don't need to rinse, I strongly advise you to wash your face again since this is only the first step when I do double-cleanse. It's alcohol free, soap free, no coloring formula. The product can last for 9 months once the packaging is open.

Packaging wise, it looks just okay, unlike the 500ml one, the 100ml and 250ml packaging do not come with a pump. The bottle is safely sealed at the first time so you don't need to worry people try to sniff it whatsoever.

The cleansing water tinged with turquoise.

Foolish me thought the turquoise color comes from the bottle, apparently not! LOL. The color comes from the water. I thought because there's no added colorant, then it will be transparent like the Sensibio H2O. There is a slight fragrance too, but it's just subtle and smells pleasant to me.

Performance wise, it effortlessly takes off all my make up and it doesn't sting my eyes. Not only that, it also removes excess oil without over drying the skin. My face simply feels clean and refreshed without tightness. It can take off my waterproof eyeliners too. The only downside is it doesn't remove my liptint, thus I have to get my makeup remover separately for that one.

Price: SGD 28.75 per 250ml or SGD 15.90 per 100ml (Get 15% off at CupoNation!)

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So have you read my previous Make Saving Money Fun post? I told you bumblebees that another way to save money is to get discount right? We all know how convenience online shopping is nowadays, it doesn't only save times and energy but it also saves your fuel! If you haven't tried it yet, I suggest you try it at least once in a lifetime, there's nothing wrong to experience it.

However, only purchase from an online store that is trustworthy or recommended by lots of people. My favorite ones are Zalora and Reebonz! There are literally lots of things to get there, you can buy things for yourself or even gifts for your loved ones. To save some more money, here's the trick: find a site where you can get discount or deals like CupoNation. They cooperate with many trustworthy online stores as well as huge company such as Sephora and The Body Shop. And since I am someone who loves to dine out, I'm glad that CupoNation's offers are not merely for beauty & fashion, but also for food & drink. My suggestion in finding the right coupon (to prevent impulse buying) is to browse by categories, they have 17 categories FYI :O

Anyway, simply check out their website to find out more deals they have right now!