All-Around Safe Block

on
Friday, August 29, 2014
[Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received the product for a review purpose, but the opinions are my own based on my experience.]

Helloooo, dearest bumblebees! How come it's the end of the month already? I just can't bid goodbye to August yet, but life must go on. Remember when a couple of months ago I shared my favorite sunscreen? I said that I converted my sunscreen to the physical one, I also did explain the difference between the physical and chemical sunscreens if you're interested to know more about it. Furthermore, if you're still wondering why is it important to wear sunscreen daily, kindly watch this video :)

Well, as now I'm going to share a chemical filter sunscreen, let me clarify why I try a chemical sunscreen again. As you know, physical sunscreens tend to leave white cast on skin. The L'occitane Immortelle that I reviewed awhile ago doesn't leave me white cast, but the thing is I share the product (ehm, it's expensive) with my mom now, and I'm just being oh-so-lazy to go to her room to grab the sunscreen and often end up forgetting to use it. So I come up with an idea of finding a budget-friendly sunscreen for a student like me ^^

HanaVillage.com Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence Sun
I don't think I have tried many Missha product in the past, I have known this product for a long time but I have yet to try their skin care. Well, except their First Treatment Essence. Btw, I'm pleased to know that Missha is against animal testing as it's stated on the packaging. To be frank, I don't really mind using a product that's tested on animals or even has animal ingredient in it anyway. I am sorry that I may disappoint you, but I'm just... being totally honest. I'm not a vegan, I eat McDonald's, I own animal leather bags and wallet, and I do use animal ingredient beauty products such as, snail mucus, pearl powder, etc as well. So how can I say I'm against animal cruelty :( In spite of those statements, I give props to all the animal cruelty-free products! Trust me I'm not cruel to animal, I can't stand watching all those videos on YouTube at how bad human treat the chicken and cow and pigs and rats and so on. However, if you still think I am cruel and heartless to animal, it's okay x_x

HanaVillage.com Missha Essence Sunscreen Ingredients
The ingredients.

The active ingredient in this sunscreen is ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (also called octyl methoxycinnamate). For effectiveness against UVA or UVB please refer to this chart for all the FDA-approved sunscreen filters. It's shown that the ingredient only absorbs UVB and short-wave UVA. On the other hand, UVA rays are more harmful as these rays penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB, which have long been known to play a major part in skin aging and wrinkling.

Controversy exists over whether or not octyl methoxycinnamate may harm humans who use products with the chemical in them. According to ÖKO-TEST Kosmetikliste, octyl methoxycinnamate has been suspected as hormones to act as it is absorbed through the skin and can be detected in breast milk. However, there is no conclusive evidence has been found and it is uncertain what the exact effects of octyl methoxycinnamate are. Since Missha didn't state how many percent of octyl methoxycinnamate they use, all I can say is, it is less recommendable as a chemical filter.

So it's all now back to your personal choice whether you want to use sunscreens with this chemical filter or not. I have mixed feelings when using this kind of product, just like when I find 'cones or parabens in my beauty products. I'd only continue to use it when it doesn't give bad reaction, as for this sunscreen, fortunately I haven't experienced any breakout. Please just don't....

HanaVillage.com Missha Essence Sun swatchHanaVillage.com Missha Essence Sun swatch
The swatch and I intentionally captured it unblended.

As it's called Essence Sun by Missha, it's supposed to be moisturizing just like an essence. It doesn't contain mineral oil, which I really prefer because mineral oil breaks me out sometimes. The main ingredients are the 7 Oriental Tea Newplex, which are chrysanthemum tea, green tea, terragon tea, mulberry tea, persimmon leaf tea, arrowroot tea, and cinnamon tea.

I use the sunscreen on top of my skincare routine and all over my exposed body, such as arms, legs, and feet. It feels so lightweight, smooth (as there's dimethicone in it) and has a semi-matte finish. The sunscreen turns transparent once it's fully absorbed to the skin. It smells pretty nice, like floral scent, very natural. Furthermore, it doesn't leave white cast! Perfect for photoshoot :P

One thing I notice about this sunscreen is it's not waterproof. Therefore, this won't be the ideal sunscreen if you involve in water activities. That's why they have another variant that's formulated strongly against sweat or water, called All-Around Safe Block Waterproof Sun. It offers a slightly higher SPF which is SPF 50.

The sunscreen will expire in 12 months usage, and I think 12 months is a great deal for a sunscreen since my usual sunscreen expires in 6 months and (again) it's expensive T_T

Price: USD 11.50

Not only Asian cosmetics, Hanavillage.com sells circle lenses too and offers free worldwide shipping if you purchase more than USD 30. I asked Cindy (their representative) if she can pick me any natural green circle lens and here's what she chose for me ^^ The circle lenses are from Dueba, it's manufactured under The Dolly Eye plant so that explains the packaging, yes?

HanaVillage.com - Asian Cosmetic Beauty & Coloured Lens Store
The cutest circle lens packaging I've ever had.
HanaVillage.com - Asian Cosmetic Beauty & Coloured Lens Store

Specification of Dueba Puffy 3tones:
Power Range: 0.00 ∼ -10.00
Diameter: 14.5mm
Base Curve: 8.6mm
Water Content: 38%
Lifespan: 1 year disposal

HanaVillage.com - Asian Cosmetic Beauty & Coloured Lens Store
The result on my very dark brown eyes.

Design: 4.5 out of 5
First time wearing green lenses, I was surprised at how natural they look on me! Now that I think it again, such vibrant color doesn't pop out much on my very dark brown eyes, which make it seem natural on me. The lens has three tones, and based on my experience, 3 tones lenses will give a natural result on my eyes. It doesn't get a full score from me because the design is kinda pixelated, even though it looks just fine when it's worn.

Enlargement: 4.5 out of 5
The limbal ring is perfect for the lens. As this lens has a diameter of 14.5 mm, the enlargement effect looks quite natural for small eyes like me.

Comfort: 3 out of 5
You know the feeling when it feels like there's something on your eyes though it doesn't hurt, right? That's what I exactly feel about this lens. However, after several eye drops and some blinks, it feels comfortable. The lens starts to dry after 3 hours when I wear it indoor with the AC on, but I can wear this lens up to 7 hours.

Overall: I love how natural the lens look on me despite green is not my natural eye color. Though it may feel a bit weird at first, the lens can be worn up to 7 hours and it's a yearly lens which is a fair point.

Price: USD 22.50 per pair

 photo michellemisshacopy_zps80fd4c92.jpg
Final look with Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence Sun and Dueba Puffy 3tones.

Lens care tips: Treat your circle lenses gently, wash your hands before application, rinse & disinfect each time you remove them, and dispose them when they start to cause dryness. Even if this lens has yearly lifespan, I won't use it for one year, I'll probably dispose after six months usage. I write the first time usage date of each lens on the back of the lens case (with a sticker and marker of course). I always insert and remove my lens from the left eye too, it has become a habit for me so I won't mix up the left and right lenses. This is the great way to avoid eye infection.

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53 comments on "All-Around Safe Block"
  1. Hi sweet Mitch
    These review are so useful
    Great job babe
    Kisses
    Maggie D.
    The Indian Savage diary Fashion Blog

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  2. I love the packaging of Essense Sun, it look so chic!

    Annabel ♥
    Mascara & Maltesers

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  3. the packaging of the all round safe block is so cute and simple and lovely! and the puffy 3 tone is really pretty ne~ it's a good size!

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  4. I've tried this sunscreen and I liked it as well. It's a definite plus that it doesn't leave any white cats and I also like the longer expiration date.

    Rowena @ rolala loves

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  5. We've never heard of that brand but sounds like a seriously amazing sun block. Thanks for sharing, we'll have to check it out!

    xx 365hangers

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  6. I'd never heard of this brand, before, but I'd probably buy it for the packaging alone haha!
    The lenses look amazing, too xx

    francesca | on-thebias | fashion, beauty, lifestyle

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  7. cool video Mitch !!
    and your skin is flawless and looks glowy !

    AMOURPIXIE

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  8. It's a really great post! Very informative and honest!

    www.hollandsreverie.blogspot.com

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  9. nice review :) keliatannya bagus sunscreen ini, harganya juga cukup terjangkau :D
    aku suka lensnya, keliatan natural di mata baguuusss :)

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  10. Thanks for dropping by my blog!
    You are such a nature beauty..T_T
    Don't even need much make up to look that pretty!!!
    Your review on products is always so detailed!!
    Would like to try on doing one someday but i'm clueless about the chemicals n stuffs LOL

    hachidiane.com

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  11. whoaaa. nice lens !!


    http://nataliegasm.blogspot.com

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  12. Wow you actually wear contacts to change the colour of your eyes? That is braaaaave sista! The thought of anything even near my eye just freaks me out. They do look really natural on you though, and as a side note this has to be mentioned…your eyebrows are frickin amazing! Rosemary x

    rosemaryofelephants.blogspot.com

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    Replies
    1. It's my first time trying green lenses, never thought I'd love it :P Thank you Rosemary for your sweet comment xx

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  13. This look great! I saw you said that you haven't used many Missha products before, check out my blog post about one of their BB creams if you have time :)
    http://www.itschelsea.com/2014/02/the-best-bb-cream-ever.html?m=1

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  14. Never heard of these products but I`ll surely check them out! x

    ROUGH & TOUGH☯ // I`m on Bloglovin! // IG: @jiaachacruz

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  15. Heard the brand before but nvr tried anything
    That sunscreen sounds perfect for the upcoming warm weather
    You look pretty asusual mich
    X

    Varinder Makeupmeandyoyo

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  16. the packaging looks super pretty <33

    cheer, michelle ~ http://livedreammagic.blogspot.com/

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  17. Love the Review ...thank you so much for the tip <3

    www.theeche.com

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  18. I've never heard of this sunscreen before but I love it's packaging! so girly and beautiful, I need to try it :) also you always look so adorable with colored contact lenses!
    XOXO

    Milu
    www.hellolupi.blogspot.com

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  19. I've been looking for a good block! My skin is so sensitive though that I hesitate with anything new, love the review!

    xx Cara
    www.carascliche.com

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  20. I love the look of the safe block - it makes your skin look so smooth and beautiful! :)

    Layla xx

    www.sprinklesofstyle.co.uk

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  21. the sunscreen look good ! i love to try them out
    and i just started following you <3


    http://www.ryokogurl.com/

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  22. The packaging looks so sweet~ I will go Missha store to check it out =D
    You look so natural and pretty with the green lenses my Dear ❤❤❤

    With Love,
    Qoqo

    www.q00q00.com

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  23. Yeah too bad Missha was not recognized that much compared to other Korean products even though they have their store in Indonesia. The packaging is so Missha-like! Pretty and elegant. Thank you for the review! And btw that green contacts look great on you ;3

    gabbythegabby.blogspot.kr

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  24. perfect green lenses ** u have cat eyes with them ^^~
    i really like it~
    ~ Thanks for sharing

    My blog ♥ Visit it cutie ^^

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  25. Omg you are so pretty!
    xx

    Mind to visit my newest post about beauty?
    http://missdjoen.blogspot.com/2014/08/review-simply-stay-by-mustika-ratu.html
    Thankyou ^^

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  26. That is the cutest sun cream I have ever seen!

    Clare from Tweet xx

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  27. You look amazing with those lens, dear!

    http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com

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  28. i suddenly became aware of the importance of sunscreen and in search of a cheaper one after I'm done with IOPE's and the missha seems to suite my skintone, the lenses looks good on you (and you have a flawless skin!)

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    Replies
    1. Then this sunscreen will be great for you because it's affordable and it turns transparent once it's fully absorbed to the skin ^^ Thank you, dear :)

      Delete
  29. That looks like a fantastic product!

    Raindrops of Sapphire

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  30. I tend to play it safe with my sun protection products, however the feminine packaging for this product is SO pretty!! :)

    http://aglassofice.blogspot.co.uk/
    - I follow back on Bloglovin' -

    x

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  31. Totally obsessed with your blog now! Just thought you should know! xx

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  32. Looks like a great product, and very cute too <3

    Visit my blog: www.sarahrizaga.blogspot.com

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  33. awww u look so lovely. I am huge fan of MISSHA products and I love the girly packaging of this sunblock.
    You have a really lovely blog and I'm so glad I stumbled across it.
    Keep up the good work and I'll definitely come here more often now!

    Love
    ♥ Heart Bows & Makeup ♥

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  34. I think it's a great buy at just $11+ for a sunscreen! Great review, Mitch!
    Luxury Haven

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  35. Oo, never heard of this one before! I'm always wearing sun lotion (a red head), so I might have to look this one up.

    Em | Hmm maybe...

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  36. The packaging is so cute. Never tried this sunscreen, but maybe I'll give it a shot

    Made in Mauve

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  37. the packaging is so cool! love it! I,ve never heard before about that brand. thanks for sharing!

    xx

    isa

    www.un-likely.com

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  38. great review, maybe i have try this sun lotion once i run out the old one:) and the packaging is really cute <3

    www.cinwilsoon.blogspot.com

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  39. the lenses look so pretty on you! love the colour! :)

    Metallic Paws

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  40. Owow, your skin! Those eyes! Killer combo!
    Thank you for taking the time to swing by hun, hope to see you back soon!

    xo-Julie
    Peace. Love. LOL!

    Haute Khuuture Blog

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  41. The sunscreen sounds great and I love your contacts!

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  42. Sooooo that whole science part flew over my head (MY FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL HASN'T STARTED YET AND I REFUSE TO TACKLE LARGE WORDS) but the All-Around Safe Block sounds much more suited for me!
    As for the whole cruelty free thing, I do think it's important to educate yourself on what actually happens during the testing process, but it is sad that bunnies are being tested on. :( (Actually, this post has led me to look up some more information about the topic, and I think I'm going to have to go cruelty free now!)

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    Replies
    1. I've seen a bit of the testing process videos, I couldn't even watch the whole video but then again, I can't commit myself to use the cruelty free products T______T

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  43. Oh, I love Missha product! Currently using their BB cream product. I just know that it's against animal testing, so glad to hear that!
    Anyway you look cute with the lenses! Well, I never try to wear any, still afraid to put it in lol.

    love,
    http://g-carinoo.blogspot.com/

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    Replies
    1. Apparently Missha still tests some of their products to animal since they market in China as well T.T I just knew about this too, how disappointing.

      Delete
  44. I'm jealous with your glowing-as-always skin kak :(
    love the pinkish packaging!

    xx
    Check our blog:
    Overload Journals

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  45. Interesting sun block with cute packaging ^^

    恵美より ♥
    www.emi-doll.blogspot.jp

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  46. I like the idea of a sunscreen that smells good and is light weight. They usually smell a little weird and feel greasy.

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  47. Oh no! That's really disappointing! Then why do they put that label if they still undergo animal testing! :( I thought all of their products are cruelty-free x_x

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