Erborian Seve De Bamboo Eye Gel

I was reading Sokoglam for recommendations on eye cream and came across this new brand, Erborian.  Erborian is a brand that combines French and Korean method, best of the beauty world.   I was keen to find a daytime eye cream that's not too heavy and stays under concealer.  Since the Erborian Seve De Bamboo is an eye gel, it should be lightweight formula that I was going for.

It's been a month since I've tried on the eye gel and I'm loving it.  The gel is very light, almost watery yet has good impact.  I don't have puffy under-eye but if you did, I can see that the gel would work miraculously to de-puff.  The lightness of the bamboo reminds me of cucumber without the seeds of course.   I don't think this gel is heavy enough for night-time but will keep using it in the morning to 'wake up' my eyes.

Directions:  after skin routine, apply eye gel under the eye

Where to Buy: purchased from Sokoglam

Skin79 Watermelon Girl Mask

Since the temperature is getting colder my skin has gotten drier.   Watermelon helps with moisture and thus I tried this Skin79 Watermelon Girl fruit sheet mask.

I was pleasantly surprised that the mask actually looks like the package - it actually has the rind of the watermelon and blush on the mask.  It was super cute - although not sure if I looked cute in it.   The mask was thin, fitted well and was full of essence.  I would definitely use again!

Directions: after cleansing and toner, apply mask for 20-30 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased from MemeBox

Forencos Song Joong Ki Sheet Mask

My face has settled down enough where I've added back serums, essence, and masks.  My hubby recently traveled to Japan and had a layover in Seoul.  He was kind enough to purchase a face sheet mask set at the airport as omiyage.   

Song Joong Ki is one of my favorite Korean actors since his beginning days as the play boy in "Sungkyunkwan Scandal", Running Man and recently as the army captain in "Descendants of the Sun".   I would've gladly tried on any masks with him on the cover!  

I tried on this Forencos Friday mask - Gold Regenerating Silk Mask - this past Friday.   The mask did feel extra silky, had a ton of essence (but no drip) and lasted more than 30 minutes.   The mask fits well except for the nose area where the strip could be longer.   I still felt the mask essence the next morning. 

Directions: after washing and toner, put on sheet mask for 15-20 minutes

Where to Buy: purchased at the Seoul International airport terminal

RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream

I've been trying out samples of eye creams to find the ultimate elixir.  The RoC brand is not that well known yet appears on a lot of lists for being best value.  It contains retinol which is an available over the counter anti-aging ingredient.  The more potent formula is only available via dermatologist.

There's promises of reduction of wrinkle, crow's feet, dark circles and puffiness on the label and on the web.  After a month of this product I don't see a significant difference.  In comparison to the Fresh Black Tea eye cream, this eye cream is light.  I end up putting two dab of cream on each under eye area.   However, the sample size does give you plenty to assess and determine whether the product is right for you.  Retinol can be drying and doesn't work well for sensitive and dry skin types.

Directions:  after cleansing, toning and essence, put a dab of the cream under and above the eye.

Where to Buy: purchased on Amazon.

Fresh Black Tea Age Delay Eye Concentrate

I've been on strict dermatologist skin routine order so haven't been tapping into my kbeauty and jbeauty stash (been dying to try a face mask or two!!).  Although I've since added back SK-II Essence into my routine, the only other thing I can add is eye cream.   I've used up the Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream so been on the hunt for a more effective eye cream.  The Mizon was nice but not thick enough for my under-eye circles.

Through blogs and Instagram, I found rave reviews on the Fresh Black Tea Age Delay Eye Concentrate and decided to try the sample size.  The sample size is quite small, only 0.1 oz.  It lasted about a week with twice daily applications.  I did love the cream!  It was thick and felt luxurious.   My eyes felt pampered and I could feel its effect the next morning.   If I wasn't trying another eye cream, I would've purchased a full size bottle.   

Directions:  after cleansing and essence, apply cream below and above the eye.

Where to Buy:  purchased on Amazon

Elta MD UV Clear Sunscreen

I finally found an oil-free sunscreen that's specific to my skin type!!  This is again a recommendation from my dermatologist and I love it!  Elta MD has a variety of sunscreen and this one is specific to skin type prone to acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation.  

I'm not sure why SPF is only 46 because it feels stronger and last longer than other sunscreen.  It's extremely lightweight and one pump of the sunscreen goes a long way.  Since its oil free, it's helping to maintain clean and clear skin.  So happy I found this product!

Directions: after lotion, apply sunscreen on face and neck.

Where to Buy: purchased at my dermatologist office

CeraVe Hydrating Lotion PM

One of the skincare product that was recommended by my dermatologist was the CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion.  She specifically mentioned the PM because it had more added benefits.  It contains hyaluronic acid which is in many jbeauty and kbeauty products.   

This lotion is light yet compact.  There's no oily residue and the face feels soft after applying.  I use this lotion to combat the dryness from the creams prescribed by my dermatologist for my acne.  After a series of breakouts, my skin is finally clearing up.  Now that I've simplified my beauty routine, my face has stopped breaking out.  I'm starting to add back essence but very slowly.  Right now I've only added back the SK II essence morning and night and SK II toner at night.  I've learned my lesson that less is more 😁

Directions:  put three pumps of lotion onto palm and spread all over face.

Where to Buy: available in all drugstores

Cerave Hydrating Cleanser

Upon strict doctor's order, I had to dramatically overhaul my beauty routine.  One of the approved cleanser is Cerave Hydrating Cleanser made with ceramides and hyaluronic acid.  I use this in the evening to remove minimal makeup and oil.  

This cleanser is very effective.  Feels similar to Cetaphil cleanser but even more squeaky clean.  I've been told not to use a toner so this is it for face cleansing.   My hormonal acne has decreased significantly.   Maybe drugstore cleanser isn't so bad after all.  It's very cost effective.

Directions: on wet face, spread and massage one pump of cleanser onto face.  Wash with warm water.

Where to Buy: nationwide drugstores 

Epionce Lytic Gel Cleanser

After a visit to the dermatologist for my hormonal acne, my whole skin routine changed.  She gave me a sample of Epionce lytic gel cleanser and recommended that I do not use toner.  So my routine now consist of this cleanser in the morning followed a skin cream.  No extras and no other masks.   

After two weeks of this cleanser, my skin did feel much better - less breakout (although the first week I was breaking out more) and my existing acne was clearing up.  I purchased a full size bottle to maintain this routine for the next 6-8 weeks.  My kbeauty products will need to collect dust.  😢

Directions: massage gently onto damp skin and rinse with warm water.

Where to buy: purchased at dermatologist 

Skinmiso Pore Corset Serum

Over the years I've had my share of looking in the mirror and wondering why my pores were so large (gets worse over the summer) and how in the world I can minimize them.  When I discovered kbeauty, I read through enormous amount of product reviews and sites and identify solutions to my huge pores.  After poring numerous hours into research, I discovered the Skinmiso Pore Corset Serum.  

I was definitely skeptical about the ability to minimize pores because aren't they based on genetics?  But I was willing to try.  Over the last two months I used the Pore Corset Serum exclusively in my morning and night routine as the only serum, after toner and essence.   And it really did make the difference!! More pores on my cheeks (next to my nose bridge) has shrank and is less visible.  My forehead pores are also less noticeable as well.  The serum has a slight hint of grapefruit smell but otherwise quite clean and easy to apply with the stopper.   

If it wasn't for my hormonal acne and craters on my cheeks, I would continue using this product.  However I've been told by my dermatologist to stop all products and only use a gel cleanser, Retin-A cream at night and an acne cream in the morning.  I'm in week one of my two week routine and not much has changed.  Wished I can go back to this Pore Corset Serum!!  And wished they made one for my waist 😁

Directions: after cleansing, toning and essence, apply droplets onto face.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox

Over Cleansing

I've noticed significant increase in acne over the past two months (after my Peru trip).  It may have been the traveling, living outdoors, the hot weather, or all of the above.  I did some research and identified that perhaps I was over cleansing and using too many new products on my face.  

Thus, over the past week, I did my own experiment of 'doing less'.  No more double cleanse in the morning.  No more clay masks twice a week.  No more sheet masks daily. 

So instead of a 10 or 12 step routine, I'm cutting it down to 6.  But I'm more selective of the products that I use.   

I did find that my craters were less red and the whiteheads not lasting as long.   My skin feels and look better.  And, I have more time to watch Korean drama.  =)

[The Saem] Snail Essential Hand Cream

First, I want to thank Suki for inviting me to do a guest post, I am very excited to share a product that I love.

As a letterpress stationery printer, I handle and trim mainly 100% cotton papers that absorb moisture and natural oil from my hands, leaving them dried and rough. There are a few hand repair cream with rave reviews that I have tried worked well, but I cannot use those whenever I need to because they tend to have greasy finish that stain my crisp clean cardstocks when I work. For that, I am always on the hunt for products to moisturize my hands without leaving any traces of grease. 

Snail Essential Hand Cream by [theSAEM] has been the best friend any pair of dried hands could ask for since I found it in Korea a couple years ago. I must say, I was skeptical at first because of its odd ingredient - SNAIL SLIME. I definitely would not have tried it if the sales lady did not grab my right hand, slather it all over and gave me a mini hand massage as I walked pass by the beauty products store. I did not pay much attention to the product as I was on a mission looking for quality and cheap nail polishes, so I kept on walking and found a nail polish store few minutes later. As I tried on polishes from my right hand fingers to my left hand fingers, I noticed a night-and-day difference - moisturized hand and nails on the right and ashy with dried cuticles on the left. More importantly, although the lotion was only massaged in a couple minutes ago, my hands were dry to touch, not a trace of the typical greasy film left by most hand creams. So I turned around and looked for the nice sales lady and bought myself a few tubes and have been using it regularly ever since.

This hand cream has a faint clean floral scent, you will not get overwhelmed by the scent. The 2.36oz tube makes it a perfect size (TSA approved) to toss into your bag.

If you do see it online or in a beauty product stores near you, grab one and try!

Where to buy: Korea, eBay, or online retailers (ie, http://cosmetic-love.com/, a Korea-based online retailer that ships free on all orders!)

Dr.G Brightening Peeling Gel

Although I have plenty of clay and sheet masks I realize I didn't have an exfoliator. After reading a blog post by Glow Recipe, I decided to try the Dr. G Brightening Peeling Gel.   I have not been to a Korean spa but did experience a Turkish one where they do a great scrub to get all the dead skins off.  I imagined that this peeling gel would do the same but only milder (hope way milder!)

I was not disappointed!  My initial use of the gel produced a whole lot of dead skin cell, especially around the nose.   It seem like I haven't washed my face in a while when I've been diligently double cleansing and using clay masks.  The ordeal was very satisfying and I couldn't wait to use it again.  A few days later when I used the gel again it was much better - not much skin cells seeing scrubbed off.  The gel is very mild and my face did not feel tight or red after usage.  There are also no microbeads in the gel so no worrying about it scratching the face.  I've been using the gel for a few weeks now and love it!  I just need to cut it down to maybe once or twice a week. 

Directions: after double cleanse, put some gel on palm and massage onto face.  Keep massaging until dead skins pool together.  Wash off with water.

Where to Buy:  purchased on Amazon

Cosrx Natural BHA Skin Returning A-Sol

I've been experiencing some hormonal acne lately and was keen to get some products to get my skin back to normal.  In reviewing reviews on Soko Glam, Amazon and other beauty bloggers, I found this Cosrx Natural BHA Skin Returning A-Sol to be a top favorite.  

It's been a month since I started using this product in my morning and night routine.  I am loving the results!!  My acne which were red craters before have been greatly minimized, my skin is less red and there's been significant reduction of new pimples.  The essence toner has an alcohol undertone smell but it's not strong.  I think this product is a must in my everyday beauty routine.  If only it comes in travel size...

Directions: after cleansing and toning, put some onto palm and gently tap onto skin. 

Where to Buy: purchased on Amazon

Bonvivant Mellow Clay Mask

As part of my last purchase from MemeBox, I received a free sample of Bonvicant Botanical Mellow Clay Mask.  I use brightening or clay mask twice a week so was excited to try a new one.  

The texture of the clay mask is softer than the Pure Body Naturals Dead Sea Mud Mask.  It's not as thick and feels a bit doughy.  It spreads well and I used only a very thin layer (which leaves plenty for future usage).  The clay dries within 20 minutes and upon wash with water does not leave the face too drying.  My face felt softer, clean, and my acne redness seem more subdue.  It's a good add to my beauty collection!

Directions: after double cleanse, apply a thin layer on the face.  Wash off after mask has dried.

Where to Buy:  sample from MemeBox

Tosowoong Refresh Sea Cucumber Essence Mask

I am taking on the Soko Glam 7-day sheet mask challenge and today's mask is one that was purchased on MemeBox.   What drew me to this mask was the colorful packaging (it reminds me of the sea) and since I do enjoy eating sea cucumber, I thought why not enjoy its beauty content too?  Boy was I happy that I tried it!

The mask is silky and transparent in texture.  Because it doesn't have a mask protector, the mask was so full of essence that I had to take extra care to unfold.  Once I put it on my face, the silkiness melt right into my skin.  The mask fits perfectly, especially around the nose area, which is a tricky place for most mask.  The forehead area could be bigger but it may be due to my large forehead.  There were plenty of extra essence for neck and upper chest.  The mask lasted more than 40 minutes.  I'm already thinking of getting more! 

Directions:  after double cleanse and toning, apply mask for more than 20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox  

Heliocare 360 Gel Oil-free Sunscreen

One of the benefits of traveling for work is that I get to explore the pharmacies of new location.  I traveled to Venice in early June and had some down time to explore the city (and get some good eats).  The pharmacies in Venice were small and boutique like.  I was able to find a few products I haven't seen before.  The selection was less than expected though, probably because I was in the tourisy part of town.

Although I've been happy with my sunscreens, I am always in need for better ones, especially ones that are oil-free.  This Heliocare 360 brand is one I haven't seen before or am familiar with.  Since it's gel like and oil-free, I decided to give it a try.  I've been using this product for approximately 2 weeks and really like it!  It smells faintly of orange and has a yellowish/orange tint.  The sunscreen applies smoothly with no residue.  It's very matte like and indeed was oil-free.  I like the fact that it's not thick so I barely feel the product.  So much so that I thin I can go without the Skin Food Silky Finishing Powder.  Now I need another trip to Italy to get more sunscreen!

Directions:  apply sunscreen as last step of beauty routine.

Where to Buy:  purchased in pharmacy in Venice, Italy

Trouble Skin Night Routine

Treating trouble skin requires a new night routine.   Here's the new line-up:

DHC deep cleansing oil

Banila clean it zero

Pure Body Naturals Dead Sea mud mask

innisfree rice it's a squeeze mask

Asahi hyaluronic acid lotion

SK-II clear lotion

SK-II essence

Cosrx skin returning a-sol

Skinmiso pore corset serum

Mizon snail repair eye cream

Got it down to only 10-steps!  

Banila Clean It Zero

Trying out a new cleanser highly recommended by my hair stylish because she has gorgeous skin and she's Korean who knows major beauty products.  I've been suffering from hormonal acne lately and not sure if it's due to stress, travels or new products (maybe all the above).  

This cleanser is beautifully packaged with a scooper that stays put in the inner lid (great packaging!). You need to scoop out just a quarter size to spread the sherbet texture like cleanser onto face.  It's easy to use and doesn't seem to be as oily as the oil cleanser (duh!!).  It cleans off easily without drying or harsh residue.  I love this product so far as it leaves my face super clean and seem to be helping with the acne.

Directions: use scooper to put quarter size portion into back of hand.  Spread across face and massage.  Wash off with water.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox

Benton Snail Bee High Content Mask Pack

My face was in desperate need for some pore and acne care lately.  I've seen some hormonal acne appear on the side of my forehead and right cheek.  After going through my stash, I realize I don't have any product that truly addresses this problem.  This mask from Benton was the closest since it can be used by all skin type.  

I have the essence so know the product well.  The mask is very similar to the essence, in smell (a bit of iron) and texture.  Can't say that I'm disappointed by the mask but I'm not in love either.    I would prefer to use the essence (which I use only in the morning routine) than the sheet mask.

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply mask for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox as part of Benton starter kit. 

Guest Blogger

I'm happy to announce that my dear friend, Betty, has been added as a guest blogger!!  She utilizes a lot of Taiwanese and other Asian skincare products.  I am excited to add her experience and the product reviews on this blog.

Welcome BETTY!!

The Face Shop Rice Water Bright

I received the The Face Shop Rice Water Bright trial size samples as part of anther purchase.  I've been meaning to try the samples and with my recent travel, it was a perfect time.

The Face Shop Rice Water Bright rice cleansing water and lip & eye remover are both not effective. The cleansing water is quite light and I had thought it was a toner instead of a cleanser.  The directions states that a cotton pad should be used to wipe across face and then wash off with water.  Not only is it confusing to use cotton pad for a cleanser but the product was ineffective in cleaning the face.  There was no squeaky feeling and seem to have left an oily film.

The lip & eye remover was even more disappointing because I was hoping to find an alternative to the Neutrogena eye remover.  The remover did not work on waterproof mascara and eyeliner.  Even after usage, I had to supplement with a Neutrogena cleanser wipe.

Both products were ineffective and disappointing.

Directions:  Put product on cotton pad and wipe across face.  Rinse with water.  

Where to Buy: The Face Shop

Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask

I've heard a lot about Sulwhasoo from friends and fellow bloggers and have been waiting for some time to try their product.  I got the chance by purchasing some travel size products on Testerkorea.com.  It didn't take as long as I thought to get products shipped, about 2 weeks or so when I had thought it would take a month or longer.

The Sulwhasoo Clarifying mask is a gel like mask.  It has a strong ginseng smell,.  After just 10 minutes, my face started to tightened and the mask started to be clearer.  I left the mask on for 30 minutes at which point my face was beyond tight.  The mask was easy to rinse off with tepid water.  My pores did seem to appear smaller and face a bit tighter.  Def worth a try again for longer term effects.

Directions: after double cleanse, apply mask to face and leave on for 15-20 minutes.  Rinse with warm water.

Where to Buy: purchased travel size packets on Testerkorea.com

Product Empties

After traveling quite a bit both within the US and internationally, it's quite satisfying to use up travel size beauty products.  I believe I have written reviews for the empties but if I haven't it will be in future posts.  Empties include:

Botanic Farm Grain Ferment Sherbet cleanser

Benton Aloe BHA skin toner

Benton High Content Essence

Shiseido Ultimune Concentrate

Innisfree Green Tea Balancing Skin

Innisfree Green Tea Balancing Lotion

Amore Pacific Eye Concentrate Complex 

Can't wait to try the next batch of beauty products!

ettang Peeling Soothing Mask

I don't see a lot of peeling gel with mask so when I saw this on MemeBox, I thought it was worth a try.  The ettang Peeling Soothing mask contains two parts - peeling gel and a soothing sheet mask.  

The peeling gel was easy to use and was quite effective in scrubbing away all the dead skins.  It was quite satisfying to see all the dead skins appear as films and easily washed away with water.  

The soothing sheet mask was a bit disappointing because the mask felt rough and did not have a lot of essence.  It still provided moisture and since the dead skin cells were sloughed off, the face felt very soft.  The mask did leave the face very sticky so putting any night cream was a challenge.  I end up only applying some essence and called it a day.

Directions: spread the peeling gel on face and massage until dead skin are sloughed off.  Apply the soothing sheet mask afterward.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox

Amore Pacific Intensive Vitalizing Eye Complex

Through a friend's recommendation (thanks Luisa!), I came to know about the Amore Pacific skincare brand.  Since I was in need of a travel size eye cream, I purchased the Amore Pacific Moisture Bound Intensive Vitalizing Eye Complex cream from Amazon.   

I've been using the eye cream for 3 trips now, for a total of 5 weeks, and finally used up the bottle.  The cream is soft, gel-like and apply beautifully without feeling heavy.  I apply morning and night and it works well under concealer.  My undereye area feels moisturized and brightened.  The cost of the trial size was $11 which is quite a lot for travel size but it was worth the price of eye hydration.  I would be tempted to purchase full size but want to try out more options before settling on one.

Directions: apply to eye area morning and night.

Where to Buy: purchased on Amazon.

Tosowoong Pore 3D Mask in Bird's Nest

Still on my business trip so time to try out another mask in my collection.   I wasn't sure what a 3D mask was so thought I'll try it out as an experiment.

Upon opening the Tosowoong 3D mask, I was weary of the brown coloring.  I've never seen a sheet mask in non white or clear color before so wasn't sure what to expect.  The mask is layered in two past - upper and lower face. The directions were clear to separate the mask from the clear side and affix to face.  Perhaps that's the side hat had all the essence, although both side look the same.  The good thing was the mask was protected on both side.   Due to the lower and upper half of the mask, it affix to the face nicely except the upper half was a bit small and did not cover the entire forehead.   I had the mask on for 30 minutes plus as the mask was to dry out completely.  After the period, the mask wa still not dry below the eyes and around the cheeks.  I had to peel off the mask.  I was expecting my face to be a bit discolored from the brown coloring but all I saw was clarity, smaller pores and tightness.  It was a nice canvas for the night skin creams and essence.  The day after the skin felt refreshed, hydrated and plump.  I would try the mask again or perhaps other 3D mask.

Directions: after double cleansing, apply mask on face for 30 minutes or more or until mask is completely dry.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox.

Skinfood Black Sugar Mask Washoff

With the time change and excessive drinking, my skin was in need of therapy. I tried the Skinfood Black Sugar Wash off to energize and clear my pores.

The mask is scrub like with crystallized black sugar.  I was afraid that the scrub would scratch my face but after massaging on my face, skin felt hydrated,  super clean and refreshed.  I couldn't detect any scarring of the face.

Directions: after double cleanse, apply  wash off and clean off with water.

Where to Purchase: part of Kbeauty trial box from MemeBox.

Botanic Farm Grain Ferment Cleansing Sherbet

Trying out a new cleanser for my two step cleansing routine.  The botanic farm grain ferment cleansing sherbet texture feels waxy, similar to my hair product oil from Japan.  Once it's on the face, it takes some effort to spread across the face.  Although not oily, it feels like it should be.  The cleanser has a hint of fruity smell but not strong.  The face does not feel as clean as mud or foam cleanser.  Perhaps it's meant for normal skin and not for oily or combination skin usage.

Directions: after cleansing with oil cleanser, apply and spread sherbet all over face.

Where to Buy: part of the Kbeauty trial kit from MemeBox.

My Beauty Diary Sheet Mask - Apple

My Beauty Diary is my favorite sheet mask now and my go to for weekly mask challenge.   My recent purchase is the Apple Polyphenol for oil and pore control.   

Upon opening the package, there is a hint of Apple scent but it's not overwhelming.  The mask is over abundant with essence, so much so that the essence drips on the clothing.  There is also enough in the package for neck and chest area.   The mask is refreshing and although I've only used the mask once, my pore seem to have gotten smaller and there is less shine in my face.  I will have to rotate this mask with others during the week.

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply mask for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased in NYC pharmacy.  Available on Amazon.

Bonvivant Mint + Tea Tree Sheet Mask

I ordered the Bonvivant Botanical Mask Pack in Mint + Tea Tree from MemeBox a while ago and kept it for the Peru trip.  After a grueling 4 day hike and another week in the Amazon heat, I pampered myself with this mask in Lima the day before our flight back to SFO.   

The mask had a nice half sheet separator so that the sheet mask would not tear.  The mask was heavy with essence and the texture was so so.  After taking off the mask, my face felt sticky instead of plump as with other masks.  I'm a bit disappointed as I really wanted to like this brand.  The tea tree and mint combo was calming and did not have a scent.

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply mask for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox

Slowganic Cleanser - Green Tea

Traveling for work for the next 2 weeks which means time to try out new travel products!  😁

First one on the list is the slowganic cleanser in Green Tea.  At first glance, the product looks sticky and putty with a hint of green/gray coloring.  Although it doesn't look very nice, it cleans very well!  It reminds me of the mud cleanser I have.  The texture is clay like with no microbeads.  The face needs to be wet in order for the clay like material to spread.   It washes off well and the face feels squeaky clean!  However, I am put off by the texture and most likely will not re-purchase. 

Directions:  after cleansing with oil cleanser, apply cleanser into face and massage face.  Rinse with water.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox as part of Korean skincare box.

Mediheal Tea Tree Healing Solution Essential Mask

After the Machu Picchu hike, my face had more breakouts and redness.  Good thing I packed the Mediheal Tea Tree Healing Solution Essential Mask to help revigorate my skin and reduce the redness.

The Mediheal Tea Tree mask is full of essence but not abundantly more like the MBD ones.  It had a nice half sheet protector so that the mask does not tear. The mask is soft and fits the face well.  I was half expecting the mask to be different such as extra soft texture or more essence but in the end it's just a nice regular mask.  Since it's cost a bit more than regular mask like MBD and innisfree, I don't think it's worth the money to repurchase.

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply to face for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox

innisfree It's Real Squeeze Mask - Tea Tree

For my two week Peru trip I knew my skin would go out of wack.  To prepare, I packed some sheet masks with tea tree as preventative and follow up routines.   

I applied this innisfree It's Real Sqeeze Mask in Tea Tree in Cusco before the Machu Picchu hike.  Not only was it full of essence, the mask was soothing and soft.  This is similar to other innisfree sheet mask but the tea tree really stand out.  My face felt refreshed, a bit less red and even some spots less apparent.   It was definitely a good preventative measure to what's to come during the four day Inca Trial hike.

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply the mask to face and leave on for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased from MemeBox

Travel Routine

Traveling doesn't mean that my skin routine takes the backseat.  I'm always on the lookout for travel size of my favorite skin products.   Here's my travel routine for the 2 weeks in Peru (limited for Machu Picchu hike):

- Tatcha Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil

- Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash

- The Face Shop Blemish Zero Clarifying Toner

- innisfree Green Tea Balancing Skin

- innisfree Green Tea Balancing Lotion

- innisfree Green Tea Balancing Cream

- Amore Pacific Moisture Bound Intensive Vitalizing Eye Complex

- Bioderma Photoderm Spot SPF 50

All product reviews can be found on other posts except for the eye cream.  I will have to do a separate post later.

Tosowoong Dr Troubex Sparkling Mask

This is possibly the most stressful week ever - early meetings, pickup parents on Wednesday from the airport, eating out, vendor meetings, project blowup and added more projects to portfolio!  On top of that had to pack for two week trip with just 1 carry-on (is that even humane??).   Although I'm glad the work week is finally over I am freaking out about this 20 hour flight to get to Peru tomorrow.  I do hope I have all the essentials.

Given all the stress I'm surprised my face has not broken out like crazy but there has been a few more bumps along the side of the forehead.  I've had the Tosowoong Dr Troubex Sparkling Mask for a while and decided to try it out to see if it will calm my over hyper and sensitive face.   

At first glance the fact that the mask does not have a protector sheet is poor design since it's so easy to tear the sheet mask.  The mask also feels heavier and denser, not as silky and smooth as other masks. The essence level is also low because it dried out after 20 minutes while others last significantly longer.

My face felt less red and the bumps seem to have gotten smaller.  May need to use this mask for extensive time in order to see real difference though.

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply mask for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox

Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence

Spring means it's time for a new essence!  I love Benton snail products so decided to try the Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence.  It is not as concentrated as the ampoule but have high content of snail bee filtrate.

I've been using this essence for a month and happy with the result.  The essence is gel-like yet light.  It applies well and absorbs quickly.  There is no fragrance which I like.  I use this only in the morning as part of my shorter morning routine.

Directions: after cleansing and toning,  apply essence and then apply moisturizer and sunscreen.

Where to Buy: purchased on Amazon

My Beauty Diary - White Pearl

I'm in love with all the My Beauty Diary sheet mask set.  Although they contain different types of ingredients, they all seem work like magic.  The sheet mask feels silky soft and filled with so much essence that it actually drips out of the package upon opening.  The great thing about the MBD mask is that there's a sheet protector for each mask so one can open them cleanly without ripping the mask.  

The MBD White Pearl mask seem ultra nourishing and whitening.  There is no smell perhaps due to the pearly nature.  Even after 30 minutes of the mask, the sheet mask has not dried out but I had to take it off to get some beauty sleep.  =)   There was also more essence in the package to apply onto face and neck after the mask was taken off.  Love it!

At less than $2/piece, the MBD mask sets are a must buy!  My goal is to try all the variety and assess whether there's a difference.  Stay tune for more!

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply mask for 20-30 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased in a pharmacy in Brooklyn, NYC.  Available on Amazon.

Skin Food Peach Sake Silky Finish Powder

As the weather turns warmer and the cloudy skin becomes sunny, it's time to control the oily and shiny sheen from my combination skin.  I wanted something light that will last all day without the need for refresh.  

I read through a lot of blog posts and Amazon reviews and nailed down to two choices - Skin Food Peach Sake Silky Finish Powder and innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder.  Even though innisfree powder seem to be more organic, I chose the Skin Food product because I don't like the innisfree mint smell and the shipping would've taken longer.  

I've been happy with my choice so far.  I love the peach fragrance of the Skin Food powder and the powder is translucent and silky.  I've been using it for a month and a half and find that it has great staying power where I don't have to reapply during the day. 

Directions: apply on face as appropriate to prevent oily sheen

Where to Buy: purchased on Amazon

My Beauty Diary - Bird's Nest Sheet Mask

During my recent NYC trip, I stocked up on masks including a box of My Beauty Diary - Bird's Nest for Ultra Whitening.  

Similar to othe MBD masks, this mask is full of essence (dripping actually), fits well and extra nourishing.  Upon opening the mask, the sheet mask actually smells a bit like bird's nest.  Bird's nest soup is my favorite as it's really good for you, especially for the skin.

I'm hoping that this set will reduce or stop my hyper pigmentation.  It's also to prevent new ones possibly from upcoming trip to Peru. I love this brand so much I can't wait to try others. 

Contrary to belief, My Beauty Diary is actually a Taiwanese brand and thus not kbeauty.  Shall we call it tbeauty instead? 

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply sheet mask onto face and leave for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased in a pharmacy in NYC (located in Brooklyn to be exact), available on Amazon and other online retailers.

Freeset Donkey Milk Skin Gel Mask Pack - Whitening

I noticed more pigmentation on the nose and under the eye yesterday and totally freaked out!!  I've been really diligent in applying sunscreen and wearing wide brim hat whenever I'm outside.  I blame the California sun and my daily commute for this new hyper pigmentation and freckles.  

I looked through my growing inventory of sheet mask (becoming quite the addict!) and found the Freeset Donkey Milk Whitening gel mask.  The gel mask has great silky texture filled with abundant essence.  Mask lasts more than 20 minutes and if it wasn't getting so late I would've waited longer.  

My face feels smooth and the pigmentation a bit lighter.  I just love the texture of the gel mask!  The Healing one made me a believer and this Whitening one is no different.  Will need to stock up!

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply mask for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox

SkyLake Mask Pack - Trouble Skin

Due to allergy season, my skin have gone haywire.  I purchased a pack of Sky Life Herbal Mask packs in the NYC Korea Way retail store.  It's a really small store post situated between The Face Shop (probably not a good thing) and some bakery shop.  The shop clerk was friendly  and said this brand is all natural with herbal products.  After switching some masks so that I get equal amount of the elastic care, brightening and trouble care, she also gave me a few samples.

I tried the mask pack - trouble care today and upon opening the package, immediately got a whiff of the herbal smell, similar to bad Chinese medicine herbal drink.  I was a bit hestitant as the mask texture was thick and did not seem to contain a lot of essence.  Upon applying the mask, there were few spots that didn't seem to fit including the forehead (stretched to my hair roots) and nose placement was too big.   

After applying for a minute or two there was a cooling feeling with some tingling.  After taking off the mask, the skin feels instantly refreshed with the cooling sensation remaining.

I don't know whether it's an illusion or not but some red spots from a recent facial blackhead extraction disappeared and my cheeks which suffer from spotty eczema are not as red.  Although I'm not in love with the smell, the end result seem to be worth it!

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply mask for 15-20 minutes

Where to Buy: purchased at Skylake retail store in NYC

Botanic Farm Rice Natural Energy Mask Sheet

The other day Sokoglam had a post about rice cleanser and mask.  This inspired me to try the Botanic Farm Rice  Energy Sheet Mask.  Plus I love eating rice (especially with seaweed!) so the mask was perfect.

The sheet mask is silky cotton and filled with essence.  It gave the skin the extra boost but not an extraordinary mask.  The skin felt refreshed.  It's pretty good value considering it's less than $3.  

Directions: after cleansing and toning, apply sheet mask onto face for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased from MemeBox

It's Skin Honey Sheet Mask

I've been watching Descendants of the Sun and super jealous of Song Hye Kyo and Song Joong Ki's clear, white and glowing skin.  I read somewhere that Song Hye Kyo uses home-made honey water as face masks.  Since I'm not into making my own mask, the next best thing is the It's Skin Honey sheet mask for glow and elasticity.

The sheet mask seem a bit big as the eye area stretched to the side of the face and the side of the mask touched my hair.  The mask did have a nice faint scent and face felt refreshed.

Directions: after cleansing and toner, apply sheet mask for 15-20 minutes.

Where to Buy: purchased on MemeBox

Etude House Moistfull Collagen Emulsion

Emulsion is the same as moisturizer and will need to be changed with the seasons.  Since it's spring I no longer need to wear a heavy moisturizer (good thing I was almost done with the IOPE Moistgen Emulsion).  I've read a lot of great reviews about Etude House and have been wanting to try their emulsion.   I was not disappointed!  The Moistfull Collagen Emulsion is light in texture,  smells floral yet does not leave a shine.  It's perfect for the spring and summer months!  

The only comment is around the packaging - I wished they made either a pump or a top that's easier to dispense the lotion.  The small opening is hard to get the same amount of lotion every time.

Directions: after cleansing, toning and applying serum and essence, put a quarter size portion onto palm and tap lightly onto face.

Where to Buy: purchased on Amazon