Product Review: Bioré UV AQUA Rich Watery Gel SPF50+ PA++++

Disclaimer: Product is kindly sent by samplestore.com, but reviews are based entirely on my own experience.

Wearing sunscreen is a really important step in maintaining good skin, especially in sunny (read: scorching) Singapore. But the reason why many of us do not wear sunscreen is because it is really hard to find cosmetically elegant sunscreens.

There is a myriad of reasons why many sunscreens suck: Too greasy (hence pore clogging, even though some say non-comedogenic), leaves a ghostly white cast (errr nope), does not adhere with moisturiser/makeup causing it to 'pill' or ball up (worse case ever).

If you use chemical exfoliants, retinoids or benzoyl peroxide like me, sunscreen is a must in your morning routine. Do not ever skip it! Of course I can start on a '101 reasons why you should wear sunscreen' sort of thing which will translate into a whole blog post on its own... so I shall leave it for another day! In case anyone of you are interested, /r/skincareaddiction on reddit offers very good information on sun care.

Sometime in July this year, I bought a particular sunscreen brand that was highly recommended by dermatologists but I hated that sticky feeling it left and I think the greasiness started to clog my pores. So I started my search for a HG sunscreen that I can rely on... Through some product trial-and-error, I've placed 2 in my arsenal and one of them is actually Bioré UV AQUA Rich Watery Essence! I came to know about the Watery Essence when people over reddit were raving on and on about it so I knew I had to try since I could get my hands on one so easily in SG as compared to people in US or UK.

So imagine my delight when samplestore sent me the Bioré UV AQUA Rich Watery Gel! I was actually deciding between both of them, but purchased the Watery Essence instead haha.

Do you know? A 2014 Benchmark Survey commissioned by Kao Singapore revealed a surprising find - that only 30% of women between the age of 12 and 49 years old use a sunscreen daily. (GASP!) What is even more startling is that this number has remained unchanged for the past five years, even with the introduction of more sun care products over the past few years. Based on this worrying trend, it is apparent that women in Singapore do not consider protection against UV damage a priority.

Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays without proper protection can cause permanent effects such as premature skin ageing, wrinkles and freckles, as well as, various skin damages like discolouration, sallowness, dryness. In extreme cases, it can even lead to skin cancer.

Picture cr: http://www.skincancer.org/

There are two types of UV rays, UVA and UVB.
UVA rays:

• Penetrate into the deeper layers of our skin as compared to UVB rays 
• It is also the dominant tanning ray. 
• The penetrative ability of UVA rays through glass means that even when you’re seeking shelter indoors, your skin continues to be exposed to its harmful effects which can cause cumulative damage such as wrinkling and skin ageing. 

UVB rays:

• They cause the most damage to the outer layer of skin such as reddening of skin and sunburns.
• Without proper protection, prolonged exposure to UVB rays can cause long-term damage to skin’s epidermal layers.

The Aqua Rich Watery Gel contains the breakthrough Aqua Micro Capsule, a water capsule which breaks upon application on skin to release the UV protection agent while giving skin a cool and refreshed feeling. It also has superior double UV block with enhanced SPF50+/PA++++ therefore providing maximum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun. It is suitable for use on both the face and body. But here's the best part!! It is infused with hyaluronic acid & citrus extract to keep skin hydrated and fresh!

Here's a comparison of the Bioré UV AQUA Rich Watery Gel and Watery Essence. I didn't have a chance to swatch the texture before purchasing mine previously, so I assumed that the essence will be lighter than the gel because of the names what... But to my surprise, the Watery Gel was more 'watery' than the essence as you can see the Essence remains rather firm on my hand. The essence has a more creamy feel, albeit still watery. (If you guys get what I mean!) I do have to admit that I prefer the Watery Gel to the Essence in terms of their texture.

See the micro capsules?

All absorbed! Looks neither greasy nor shiny, and no white cast! It looks as though I haven't got any sunscreen on and you can see that my skin is visibly more hydrated as compared to the first photo. I'm sold on this one.

My verdict:
This is really hands down one of the best sunscreens I've used! I love it more than the essence because it absorbs much faster, and it feels as though I'm not wearing anything on. Both the essence and gel are excellent products from Bioré but I love the gel so much more and it does feel more hydrating as compared to the essence. Most importantly, it doesn't break me out or clog my pores. This is the #1 key factor for me when choosing products for my sensitive acne/clog-prone skin. This is definitely one that I will add to my daily AM routine and foresee myself repurchasing this instead of the essence.

However every skin is different so I must caution you guys to do a patch-test when trying out new products. Both the gel and essence do contain alcohol as the third ingredient on the list so just a heads up for people whose skin cannot tolerate products with high alcohol content.

If you are looking for a value for money sunscreen that isn't greasy for daily usage, or if you are tired of searching for sunscreens that do not leave a white cast, do give the Bioré UV AQUA Rich Watery Gel a shot!

Till next time,
A

The new Bioré UV AQUA Rich Watery Gel SPF50+ PA++++ (90ml) is retailing at S$18.90 at all leading supermarkets, personal care stores and western pharmacies and departmental stores.

Product Review: Bioré Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover

Disclaimer: Product is kindly sent by samplestore.com, but reviews are based entirely on my own experience.

Everyone knows that makeup removal is an essential part to maintaining healthy skin, but sometimes too many cleansing steps in our routine can leave us feeling a little lazy on days when we are too tired to function. But I fuss over my skin too much, for I will never ever sleep in my makeup hahaha.

With that being said, using an effective makeup remover is equally important. I've tried countless makeup removers, from the old cult favourite Fancl Cleansing Oil (when I was much younger because my mom used to swear by it) to the current holy grail for many — the Bioderma Micellar Cleansing Water. I also have had bad experiences whereby makeup removers leave a nasty residue behind after cleansing and I had to deal with badly clogged pores after. Counter-intuitive huh.

I do like the micellar water makeup removers in the market currently, as you can see I'm currently using one in my skincare routine post. However, on days when I do put on heavier base makeup, I find that I require more cotton pads + more product to remove it. So that's not very wallet-friendly and that also means more tugging on my skin... 

To put the word out, I am guilty of being sceptical of many drug store brands because while I do think they work for the general normal skin population, they are not really suitable for many sensitive skin users or people very prone to certain skin conditions like acne or eczema. BUT! I recently picked up the Bioré UV Rich Watery Essence sunscreen after reading many recommendations over on Reddit and I'm absolutely happy with my purchase. So when samplestore had a campaign on this Bioré makeup remover, I knew I wanted to try it!

I have never tried the previous version but this new & improved version of the Bioré Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover with its revolutionary jelly-like texture, is said to come in an even smoother, lighter consistency as compared to the previous version, but with the same high cleansing ability that effortlessly dissolves and lifts off more makeup in a gentle glide.

It comes in this girly pink bottle that'll look really cute on the dressing table! I also do love that it comes with a pump because some viscous makeup removers do not, and that creates a mess (+ waste) when I pour the product out.

The improved product benefits include:

• A smoother jelly-like texture that is gentle on skin. It rinses off easily and quickly without any harsh tugging or pulling action.
• High cleansing ability that can dissolve and lift off all traces of makeup effortlessly.
• Made with 40% moisturising essence that nourishes and hydrates skin for a dewy moisturised finish.
• Lightweight formula leaves skin feeling refreshed, with no sticky or greasy after-feel.

Sounds good so far! Points 3 and 4 seem the most appealing to me because I really abhor the sticky residue that some makeup removers leave behind. (Yes Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Water, I'm looking at you.) And a makeup remover that hydrates my skin at the same time?! I'll gladly welcome that!

Here's a look at the texture.

It is really smoooooth and seems more watery than jelly-like! I tilted my hand slightly to get a better shot but you can see it already trickling down my palm hahaha. But hey, no complains because a thinner consistency is always better than a thicker one. This means that it wouldn't feel too heavy on our skin! +1 for that.

Okay, texture checked. Next, let's put its cleansing ability to the test.

I rarely wear any heavy eye makeup so no eyeshadows here. On days when I require a more flawless canvas, I'd go heavier on the base (foundation & concealer). So here's my Nars All-Day Weightless Luminous Foundation and Laura Mercier SC Concealer that I'll swatch, together with some lip colours from 3CE and my trusty Maybelline Hyper Sharp Liner.

For best results, it is advised to apply Bioré Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover on dry face and hands instead of using it with a cotton pad or tissue.

All you have to do is to pump an appropriate amount (2 - 3 pumps) onto clean hands and spread evenly over your face and eye areas. (It is advised to remove your contact lenses before use too!)
Massage gently to dissolve makeup. Lastly, rinse throughly with water. It is not necessary to remove cleansing liquid with cotton pad or tissue. (Or in my case, I'll remove it with a clean, hot flannel!)

Here's how my skin look like after massaging it into my skin. Ya pretty gross looking, I know. But I actually do enjoy such products where you can massage it into your skin and watch the makeup dissolve. It feels pretty gratifying if you've had a long day, just to take the makeup, dirt and grime off your face.

Taadaaa! All washed off! It's cleansing ability is superb, so that's another point checked. There is a little bit of The Face Shop's Play 101 Burgundy pencil colour left if you can spot the slight reddish tinge below my fourth knuckle. But it doesn't bother me that much because it removed more than 95% of what's on my hand, and I'll always double cleanse.

What's more amazing is that it doesn't leave any sticky residue behind and doesn't feel oily at all! My skin doesn't feel taut as well. It does leave the skin feeling very balanced because it doesn't strip the skin of too much oil or add more oil to it, hence making it suitable for all skin types. However, there is a very slight scent to it so for ladies who are hypersensitive to fragrances, it might cause some problems so do patch test first!!

My verdict:

I have been using it to remove my makeup every night for the past week and I really enjoy using it. No breakouts thus far on my acne prone skin, no clogged pores as well, so that is a really huge plus point. As a regular micellar water user, I'd have to admit that it does take some time getting used to the jelly-like texture. I'm really impressed with its cleansing ability and I can see myself reaching for this whenever I put on heavier makeup. A point to note is that it does sting if some product gets into your eyes (that is why the instructions cautioned to remove contact lenses prior to using). Overall, if you're looking for an affordable and effective makeup remover, Bioré Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover is definitely one to check out!

Thank you all for reading! Have a great weekend!

With love,
A

The new Bioré Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover (230ml) is retailing at S$24.90 at all leading supermarkets, personal care stores and western pharmacies and departmental stores.

Updated skincare routine!

I've been obsessing over Caroline Hirons recently... Not sure why didn't I start following her blog more religiously earlier, but it's better late than never. Pop over to her blog's side bar for cheat sheets on different skin conditions, and how to build up your routine!

Here's what I've been doing thus far, and my skin seems to be loving it :)
My morning routine is just a simplified version of my night time routine!

A.M.

Cleanse - Physiogel Cleanser, wipe off with clean flannel. Use something preferably non-foaming, a milk/balm/gel is fine. If I find my face a little greasy, I'd switch to my cleansing balm instead.

Exfoliate - Usually an acid toner would be recommended in this step, but I'd skip it in the mornings as my skin is really pretty sensitive. I'd however use a gentle exfoliating treatment like the La Roche Posay Effaclar K [+].

Spray hydrate - La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water

Serums/Oils - 1-2 drops of Clarins Lotus Facial Treatment Oil

Spot treatment - Thursday Plantation 100% Tea Tree Oil on a cotton bud

Moisturiser - Derm's moisturiser

Sunscreens - I'd do up another post on it!


P.M.

First Cleanse - La Roche Posay Micellar Water

Second Cleanse - Banila & Co. Clean It Zero, wipe off with clean flannel (can use the same one from the morning but discard it into the washbag after this use.) This product does contain mineral oil, which C,Hirons would totally frown upon but it works for me! So I'm not changing it as of now. It is not readily available in SG, but you can purchase it at Changi Airport Duty-free when you're flying or Qoo-10!

Acid Tone/Exfoliate - First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads are really great! They are gentle and do the job of exfoliating very well. Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner, this I use only 2-3 times a week although it feels really gentle as I find that using it too frequently messes with my skin.

Clay Mask - Innisfree Super volcanic clay mousse pack or Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay (w Raw Honey and a few drops of TTO) a few times a week after my second cleanse.

Spray hydrate - Spritz La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water. 2 times a week I'd pat in Hada Labo SHA Lotion (Light) instead or when my skin feels extra dehydrated. (Effaclar K [+] and TTO are from the A.M. routine)

To combat breakouts, I'd alternate between Differin and Epiduo (both prescription only) and apply it topically all over my face. A good alternative for these would be Benzac AC 2.5% Water-based gel which is available at all pharmacies, it is also manufactured by Galderma hehe.

Serums/Oils - Currently testing out Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate, and loving it so far. It absorbs really quickly and is very light-weight. I'm also looking for a good Vit C serum to add into my routine, so if any of you have any recommendations, do drop me an email!

Moisturiser - Laneige Water Sleeping Mask is my all-time favourite. One that I did not expect to fall in love with, due to all the hype surrounding it but I did. After I'm done with the above, I'd stick some Nexcare Acne Patch on any spots before going to bed.

Lip balm - Not forgetting your lips, here's my favourite Dior Lip Glow because you'll wake up with soft and pink lips hehe.

That's all for my current skincare routine!
Have a great week ahead, thanks for reading!

With love,
A

Product Review: Kotex LUXE Ultrathin Overnight & Day Pads

Disclaimer: Products are kindly sent to me by samplestore.com, but reviews are based entirely on my own experience.

I am actually a long-time user of Kotex's products so I'm really excited to try their LUXE series.

These are the two products from the soft & smooth line that I have been using regularly!

Samplestore kindly sent both the day & night pads over, and it is really timely as Aunt Flo's in town this week 

Instead of the usual white/single coloured wrappers, Kotex LUXE series actually features 4 different coloured wrappers. An instant mood lifter I'd say, especially when you're on your period feeling like  The pad design also varies so it's a surprise each time you open one!

Below is a comparison chart between the Kotex Soft & Smooth Ultrathin and Kotex Luxe Ultrathin pads:

Here's a little experiment I did using my existing pads to compare it with the Kotex LUXE ones!

That's the Kotex Luxe Ultrathin for Regular flow on the left and the Kotex Soft & Smooth Slim on the right. You can already tell that the Ultrathin is much thinner than the Soft & Smooth one!

My verdict: It is much thinner as compared to my regular Kotex day pads, which makes it a breeze to wear. You know how sometimes we have to be really careful about wearing tight dresses or bandage skirts when we are on our periods? I think that with Kotex Luxe Ultrathin pads, we wouldn't have to worry about that. I have also stuck with Kotex pads because they make the most comfortable cotton pads! I hate those netted ones... super uncomfortable. At first I was a little hesitant if these would feel rough against my skin but nope! They're really comfortable to wear.

But wait... What's the worst period nightmare you can have? Overnight leakage, gross.

Here's the Kotex Luxe Ultrathin Overnight Pads YouTube commercial. The things mentioned in the video are spot-on!

Our girl problems are now solved with Kotex Luxe Ultrathin Overnight pads! It is THE pad that will help you realise that overnight period leakage is never your fault!

Now I know we can't compare a 'non Ultrathin/regular' pad to an 'Ultrathin' pad but these are the only ones I have hahaha and coincidentally they're also from Kotex. The Kotex Soft & Smooth Night has ProActive Guards that prevent leakages, while the Kotex Luxe UltraThin Night has Surround Lock Protection with surrounding embossed star-contours designed to help provide you with additional security and leakage problem! The most significant difference between the two pads is that the Kotex Luxe Ultrathin Night pad comes with the new Honeycomb Liquid-Locker technology specially designed to rapidly absorb and lock away fluid to help prevent back-flow, so that skin feels dry and comfortable!

This is the enhanced U-Shape Back Guard of the Kotex Luxe Ultrathin Night designed to rise up upon contact with fluid, helps absorbs and prevents back-flow. Say goodbye to back leakage!

Kotex Ultrathin Night 32cm

See how fast it absorbs!

My verdict: I know that some of us might feel that a thicker pad offers 'extra protection' but it's definitely not true! I absolutely love the Kotex Luxe Ultrathin Night pads during a heavy flow. It absorbs much faster than my regular Kotex night pads and I'm definitely switching over once I've finished my current pack. Why? Because it is really comfortable and leaves me feeling very clean and dry! No damp feeling at all HAHA. Leakage wise, I'd have to say I trust Kotex because the regular night pads have already been working well for me at preventing any night leakages, but I believe that the Kotex Luxe Ultrathin Night is as effective if not more, because it really adheres to the contours of your body.

Want to try these amazing pads before buying them? 
Head over now to samplestore to redeem your free sample or you can also request one on Kotex Facebook page for free!

Both Kotex Luxe Ultrathin 28cm (14s) and Kotex Luxe Ultrathin Night 32cm (12s) are retailing at S$5.95 each at all local supermarkets and leading pharmacies.