Wednesday, 30 October 2019

#SparklesAndNarglesChallenge Year 2: Day 2

Day 2 : "Lumos Maxima" ; Brightening Products


I'm assuming you all know what the spell Lumos Maxima is for but I'll tell you anyway. It's an incantation to produce an instant, blinding light from the tip of a wand to illuminate the surrounding area for a few minutes. 

While I have no magic wands nor spells to cast, I have my trusty stash of brightening products to help me achieve my dream glow 🥰 it's not as immediate as the flick of a wand though 😅 So here are some of my go-to brightening items: 




My favorite skin brightening products!





These are all what I'm loving so far, I have several more unopened 😂 Let me clarify as well that "whitening" products in the Kbeauty community equates to brightening, which means glowy/dewy, even skintone, no PIH/PIE and not actual lightening of the skin. I've received some questions similar to this the last time I reviewed a "whitening" toner and they were very confused. On the other hand, I included the Jumiso AHA toner since it has since improved my PIH/PIE as well as the texture of my skin, thus giving me a holistic glow, jk.

I'm excited to see your picks and probably get some ideas to add into my highway long wishlist! 

Lumos Maxima!!! 😋✨✨✨


✨ Much Love,




Monday, 28 October 2019

#SparklesAndNarglesChallenge Year 2: Day 1

Hi guys! As you can see on the title of this post, I'll be sharing with you an 8-day long challenge that transpired in the Asian Beauty Community on Instagram from October 11 to October 18. It was hosted by Luna of Sparkles and Nargles, one of my most respected "OGs" in the AB Community PH. She writes superb product reviews by the way, so kindly do check her IG page in here

From day 1 to day 8 (the latter which happened to be her birthday), she tasked all participants to create a post depending on the challenge of the day, where in everything is based on Harry Potter events. She's a Potter-head through and through and I've gathered that this challenge commenced last year. It seems to be an annual challenge I see. 

I was no Potter-head at all, let that be known. But I love me a bit of thrill so I gladly jumped right in. Without further ado, read on and be transported to the Wizarding World of Hogwarts x Skincare.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~ o ~ o ~ 

Day 1 : "House Pride" ; Products in the shade of your Hogwarts House.

The challenge has begun and I'm super excited since this is my first ever skincare challenge yay!🤩 So I got recently sorted to House Slytherin whose color is Green and Silver. Unfortunately, I'm currently out of town and this Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum was the only Green item I found in my travel kit 😢 I'm so sorry, I'll make it up on the succeeding days. The sparkly thingies will serve as the Silver in the meantime. Does it count?😅😅


I'm obsessed with this serum for the amount of hydration it gives my skin, especially that the ocean breeze and the sun were quite drying. This is also perfect for the challenge since my House symbolizes Water. Hydration = water. See what I did there? 😂 Just let it slide 🤣


Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum, my only Slytherin House representative lol

End of day 1, LMAO 🤣. I'll be back tomorrow for Day 2. Please do join and the finish the challenge with me. I promise the succeeding posts will be a whole lot better HEHEHE.


Much Love,🍋


Sunday, 27 October 2019

G R A T I T U D E P O S T: Seoul Unni Official x So' Natural

I have recently incorporated chemical exfoliants to my routine and it was probably one of the best decisions I made. The sound of chemicals and acids seemed too intimidating at first and given the fact that my skin is hypersensitive, I evaded them for the longest time. Well it's never too late for a change of heart, yes? At the moment, I have two acids in my PM routine: a toner and a sleeping cream. I ensure to alternate the usage though in order to prevent possible over-exfoliating that might cause more harm than good.

I was recently chosen to review the Red Peel Tingle Serum from the Korean Brand So' Natural, as distributed by Seoul Unni Official. Basically, it's a serum containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) suitable for home-use and is perfect for a more youthful looking radiance and all-over healthy glow. 



I'll be including this in my PM routine soon and will be back with a full length review after a couple of weeks. Fret not, I will definitely halt my usage of the other acids and concentrate on this one first. If you're too curious and can't wait for my review, you may already get this product straight out of Beauty MNL for Php 1,580.00! Probably a bit pricey for most but we'll soon see if you can get your money's worth. Ciao!

Much Love,

[ R E V I E W ] : Good Molecules Squalane Oil

Hello there! I'm back with yet another product review and this time, it's all about Good Molecules Squalane Oil. I was fortunately contacted by the brand about two months ago and Miss Serene had been very sweet and accommodating to all my queries regarding the product stash that was especially curated based on my skin issues. They sent me their most hyped Niacinamide Toner, Niacinamide Serum, Discoloration Correcting Serum and this Squalane Oil. Read on.






WHAT IS SQUALANE OIL?

"Squalane oil is a saturated byproduct of squalene oil, a polyunsaturated hydrocarbon. The human body produces squalene naturally, which is why its derivative, squalane, is such an excellent moisturizer for the hair, skin and nails; our bodies know what to do with it."
- Definition obtained from Dermstore.com



BRAND HISTORY:

"The idea behind Good Molecules is simple: skincare that works at a fair price. Founded by a team of beauty industry veterans, Good Molecules creates skincare solutions with best-in-class ingredients, backed by research and formulated for effectiveness. By working directly with top labs, Good Molecules offers products that target skin issues—like acne, redness, and hyperpigmentation—without the traditional retail markup. See a difference in your skin, starting at just $6." - obtained from Beautylish website


INGREDIENTS: 
100% Plant-Derived Squalane Oil


VOLUME
13 ml / 0.44 oz


PRICE
$8.00 USD


CLAIMS:
- Treats dry, dehydrated skin to a boost of weightless moisture. 
- Made with 100% plant-derived squalane 
- Softens and seals in moisture for a healthy, hydrated complexion.
- Vegan, Gluten-free, fragrance-free


DIRECTIONS
Apply a few drops to skin in the morning and at night after serums and other treatments. Let absorb for 30 seconds. Suitable for daily use on all skin types.




IMPRESSIONS:
- It has no fragrance, almost scent-less actually. It's a bit runny, very lightweight and is quickly absorbed by my skin.


EXPERIENCE:
I have been alternating this oil with my Argan Oil from a local brand for 2 months. I mostly use oils during my PM routine only.


THOUGHTS:

PROS:
👍Packaging is very aesthetic, sturdy and perfect for squishing into your travel kit.
👍A little drop goes a long way so the tiny bottle is justifiable. 
👍 Very affordable compared to other brands. (USD 8!! Hello??)
👍Kept my grease at bay. It almost felt like I was wearing a makeup primer.



CONS:
👎Not really a con but I wish they can launch a bigger bottle too.

FINAL THOUGHTS: 
This is, by far, my favorite among my Good Molecules stash. I can vouch for its claims that it is weightless and therefore, my skin absorbs the oil rather quickly. Contrary to what I had expected, it didn't make me oily at all. Instead, it controlled my excess sebum while still keeping my skin looking plump and dewy with a bit of flush. Squalane oil is also one of those few oils that does not clog pores, exactly what my oil factory of a face badly needs right now. This itty bitty bottle will surely last me a good few months more as a little drop goes a long way. Lastly, it makes my face feels soft and smooth right after application which makes a great canvass for my makeup. So that saves me from purchasing a new primer lol.

RATING: 
5/5




REPURCHASE: 
Absolutely! I was actually worrying about the shipping costs should I get a new bottle already since delivery fees will cost me an arm and a leg, or probably two legs. To my surpise, I found a seller from Shopee PH. Hooray!


I will soon post my reviews on each of the Good Molecules products so kindly wait and guess if they worked for me or not. 😜


Much Love,


Tuesday, 22 October 2019

G R A T I T U D E P O S T: Thank You Farmer and Mizumi PH

"Let the Blue sky meet the Blue sea and all is Blue for a time" 
- Moncy Barbour

Once I undo this feeble piece of fabric fastening the cardboard box and its lid, there was no turning back. And then I did. There were paper trimmings underneath some more cardboard. My ecstatic fingers scoured through the sea of trimmings and ultimately felt the tip of the glass bottle's cap. I dug it out and it was there, glaring back into my fascinated eyes. It was the color of a mirthful sky. It spoke to me, then commanded me to breathe. I did as I was told and through my parched mouth, it smelt of ice, mint and water. 


The scent made me remember my High School teacher who questioned me: "How would you describe the color Blue to a blind person?". I had no refute then and believed I was being outwitted. Yet as I stared into the Blue-ness incarcerated within this glass bottle, it made me shut my eyes and for a fleeting moment, I knew I was that blind person. 

I wheezed in the cold, morning drizzle. 

I heard the gentle pulsating falls from a nearby hill. 

I felt the sweat of the clouds, falling from the skies one by one, pursuing each other until their tears reached the ocean. 

It was serene, crisp, sweet and chaste to the mouth, to the skin. I opened my eyes once more, and that was the color Blue.



I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation to @thankyoufarmerph and @mizumi_ph for these wonderful gifts:


Do you realize how delightful these are to look at? I'm absolutely mesmerized that it made me poetic again lol. I am beyond thrilled to use the serum tonight and will share my thoughts on this after a couple of weeks. On the other hand, the Mizumi sunscreen is already sitting on my face. First thoughts about it? 

✔️Lightweight

✔️definitely un-tacky

✔️has a bit of tone-up which I truly love. 

In essence, this is truly love at first sight. Nevertheless, please do anticipate my extensive reviews on both of these fabulous items. I pray you have a great day ahead! 


Much Love 💙,

Monday, 21 October 2019

[INITIAL REVIEW] : Apotheke Science Niacinamide 10%

[Disclaimer: Product was gifted by brand but all opinions are entirely my own]. 


A pleasant day to everyone! I am sharing my very first review today and the spotlight is on for APOTHEKE SCIENCE. This brand is already a household name among the Philippine Beauty Community, without a doubt. I had been on a bout with myself whether I should get this serum or not for I still have a lot of unopened items in my stash. However, a good friend who has been raving about it finally gave me that necessary push. Fortunately, the brand has generously gifted me with the serum together with their facial wash and toner. Read on as I share my impressions and experiences about their best-selling Niacinamide 10% Serum.


"Also known as vitamin B3 and nicotinamide, niacinamide is a water-soluble vitamin that works with the natural substances in your skin to help visibly improve enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles, dullness, and a weakened surface.

Niacinamide also reduces the impact of environmental damage because of its ability to improve skin’s barrier (its first line of defense), plus it also plays a role in helping skin to repair signs of past damage. Left unchecked, this type of daily assault makes skin appear older, dull, and less radiant."

Description from Paula's Choice Website


BRAND HISTORY:

Apothēkē Science is a locally, handcrafted skincare line created by a Molecular Biologist and a Medical Doctor. Their products claim to combat major skin problems such as acne, fine lines, wrinkles, eczema, and rosacea. Formulated with only the finest of natural ingredients, Apothēkē's products deliver all the necessary agents to protect your skin against outside pollutants and irritants. Absolutely all organic without the following:

No parabens
No GMO
No sulfates 
No silicones 
No toxins
No synthetic chemicals
No additives

INGREDIENTS

10% Niacinamide in a bed of Aloe vera gel, aloe vera extract and seaweed extract. 

VOLUME: 

60 ML




PRICE: 

Php 249.00 or USD 4.90.

CLAIMS:

- Minimizes lines and wrinkles 
- Restores skin radiance
- Reduces blemishes, calms breakouts and unclogs pores.
- Combats oily skin by balancing natural sebum levels
- Improves skin's barrier function, preventing it from losing water and protecting it from pollutants and irritants.
- Protects skin against damage from sun exposure.


DIRECTIONS

Pour several drops on your fingers and spread all over face until covered by a slightly thick layer. Best used after Apotheke Science Firming and Cleansing Toner. (Review on that soon).


IMPRESSIONS:

- Housed in a (cute and fat) dark glass bottle with a pump.
- Has a fresh aloe vera scent similar to usual aloe vera gels in the market.
- Clear, viscous consistency that is evenly spreadable and is quickly absorbed by the skin.





EXPERIENCE:

I have been using the serum for two weeks, both AM and PM routine. I use two pumps in the morning to avoid any possible tackiness while using three pumps in the evening.


THOUGHTS:

PROS:

👍 Packaging is commendable. Most of the Niacinamide serums I own are housed in glass droppers. Personally, I prefer pump bottles as it's easier for me to control the amount of product being dispensed.

👍 Niacinamide in a bed of aloe vera gel is a masterpiece. I have two other serums that both contain 10% Niacinamide and I believe these were too potent to be tolerated by my skin. Soaking the product in aloe vera must have diluted it somehow, making it gentler and perfect for sensitive skin.

Texture shot #1:






 👍 Noticeable mitigation of breakouts. Prior to using this serum, new pimples would typically pop here and there every one to two days. No new-born zits thus far in the 2-week duration of using the serum.

👍 Excessive sebum production as has been reduced as well. I wake up to a dewy and plump looking skin.

👍 No tacky feeling despite not being lightweight. Can be used day and night.

Texture Shot #2:




CONS:

👎 Packaging, while it may be convenient for usage at home, may also be a con if this is to be a staple in your travel kit. It's a bit bulky and therefore, not travel-friendly but you may always opt to transfer it to a smaller bottle.

👎 No noticeable lightening of my PIH so far but I plan to finish the entire bottle first before giving a final verdict.

Unfiltered photos of my current skin state (pardon my uncombed, newly-washed hair):



FINAL THOUGHTS: 

As mentioned above, I would like to empty the product first as I believe that two weeks is rather inadequate. In the interim, I can attest that I am liking the product very much due to the noteworthy improvements on my skin in the sebum regulating and reduction of breakouts department. However, the chief skin concern that I deeply wish to have addressed are the PIH and PIE on my cheeks. I'll be posting an updated review in this post as soon as I have fully utilized the product.

RATING: 4/5 in the meantime, will edit depending on the final result.

REPURCHASE: Will answer on the updated review so please do wait for it!

Here's an edited Photo to be posted on my Instagram tonight: 😊




On a different note, do you now have an idea why I named my blog "Make That Glow"? Because I literally love making things glow, such as the above shots. While sparkling objects truly spellbind me, I reckon that the product's texture as well as its beauty are further highlighted when lit up. Huge thanks to a good friend Tesh of Blooming Pixie for coining this superb hashtag that I've been using on Instagram for my sparkly photos. (#MakeitGlowbySkincareLassie) Just sharing. 😅😅😅


I wish you all have an amazing day my friends!

Lots of love,💛


Sunday, 20 October 2019

G R A T I T U D E P O S T: Papa Recipe Box

"The more you are thankful, the more you attract things to be thankful for."

It has been a little over seven months when I started my Instagram blog and the blessings that come with it have been overwhelming. From meeting wonderful people that you become friends with for real to the Brands that trust you for your unbiased reviews. Let me say thank you and I appreciate each one of you.
 
For today, another huge thank you to PAPA Recipe PH for sending over this beautiful box of sweets! Or I mean, these Honey sheet masks together with this cute little jar of honey!
 
Have you tried one of those DIY face masks strewn all over Pinterest? If not, you're missing out! I'm telling you, organic skincare has extraordinary benefits not only for your skin but for your overall health as well. One of my favorite DIY masks is a mixture of raw honey, yogurt and turmeric. It's my go-to mask whenever my red days are coming up 'cause you know what that means lol. Honey is a constant ingredient in my DIY masks and I've posted some of them on my Instagram which you can find here, here and here.
 
 Honey is naturally antibacterial so it's absolutely effective for my unwanted breakouts as well as prevention of it. If you're into an anti-aging regimen, you might also want to consider  including this gem since it's full of antioxidants plus its extremely moisturizing and soothing properties boots complexion glow. 
 
By the way, did you know that you can also take a spoonful of honey mixed with cinnamon to lessen your cough and/or colds? I've read it from various medical articles so I had to find out for myself since I've been having cough attacks recently. You won't believe how fast it relieved me. I highly recommend it! heheh :>

Anyhow, I can't wait to put on this mask later. I'm still torn whether to use the sheet mask or concoct a DIY mask again. Help me decide? lol. 
 
Below is my lovely box that was sort of victimized by my boredom. Halloween is just around the corner after all? Haha XD


Much Love,

 

Saturday, 19 October 2019

I'm Anne! Nice to Meet You :)





Hello everyone! My name is Rose Anne but I go by Anne, sometimes R.A., or sometimes Tea-Tea. 🤣

I'm 32 years old and a newly-retired employee. I'm currently a housewife which means I have so much free time and thus, you can expect consistent contents from me yay! A little history though, I used to run a 4 year old fashion blog and sadly, it got neglected due to corporate slavery. You know what I mean LOL😅.

I'm currently running an Instagram Microblog under the handle @skincarelassie and it mostly tackles my journey in achieving that clear or "glass skin". You may think that there's no visible issues on my skin basing on my above-photo but don't be fooled 😅. This was taken from a beauty conference last August which means I was all made up for the event. I wear full coverage foundation whenever I go out since I'm not too confident to flaunt my bare face on the streets. My primary skin concerns are extreme oiliness, hypersensitivity and PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentations). Secondary issues would be roughness and dullness. 

Since I've been quite active on my Instagram blog for a while, I decided to set up this blog for a more thorough discussion on the beauty products that I currently have, and will be purchasing in the future. By the way, I love making things glow 🤭. You'll soon find out why this blog was named such 🤩✨.

Please don't ask for bare-faced photos just yet 🤣. We will get there eventually. Rest assured though that I'll aim to be as honest and transparent in this blog as possible in the coming days. 

I also plan to inject some lifestyle posts every once in a while to showcase my love for fashion, food, travels and books too. A bit of variety in a niche won't hurt 😊😊😊.

That would be all for today. I'll be back with my first official post soon so please do watch out for it and support!


Much Love,💛