Shiseido Anessa Perfect Gel Sunscreen

Last year's trip to Tokyo yielded a new find on sunscreen.  I discovered that Shiseido Anessa brand has a BB cream tinted sunscreen called Perfect Gel Sunscreen.  It's only available in two tint so I selected the darker shade (Japanese girls tend to be whiter) to try.  

I used the Shiseido Anessa Perfect GEl sunscreen on my Jan/Feb trip to Hawaii.  I was going for the all natural look, including under-eye coverage.   I have to say that the tinted sunscreen works pretty well.  It's as thick as regular BB Cream (I currently use one for under-eye circles from Shiseido) yet feels light enough for daily usage.  I liked the fact that if I needed a bit of coverage, I can use this combo and skip a step.

Directions: after morning routine, spread all over face for tinted coverage.

Where to Buy: any drugstores in Japan, Amazon, eBay

Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen

I purchased my first Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen product 10 years ago when I lived in Tokyo.  You can find them in every drugstore in Japan.  Over the years, the brand has different version - whitening, brightening, etc.   My favorite has been the brightening one as it leaves a thin film of shimmer on the face.  On last year's trip to Tokyo, I stocked up on the Anessa sunscreen.

One of the reason why I always go back to this sunscreen is because it's light, non-oily, yet have great coverage.  The lotion is white but spread clear.  A little goes a long way.  It's not as thick as the Bioderma but I like the fact that my face stays matte throughout the day.  I will use the Anessa sunscreen during the winter when it tends to be more cloudy (those rainy days) while I use the Bioderma for the super sunny days during the summer and for the beach as well.

Directions: lather on after morning routine - make sure to cover neck and chest area.  

Where to Buy: any drugstore in Japan, Amazon, and eBay

Bioderma Photoderm Spot Sunscreen

On the same Europe trip, I purchased this Bioderma Photoderm Spot Sunscreen with 50+ SPF.   This product I love!!  I loved it so much, last year when I was in the UK, I made sure to stock up.  This product goes on matte and have very high protection.  Over the past two years since I've been using this on a regular basis, I have not seen any new sun spots on my face.  I like the fact that it doesn't leave a shiny sheen like most other sunscreen.  It's great for combination/oily skin types and probably all other skin types.  Highly highly recommended!!  

Directions:  after morning routine, lather on face, neck and chest.

Where to Buy:  available in European pharmacies, Boots, and Amazon

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen

One of the most important part of a beauty regime is the sunscreen.  Living in sunny California, you can get sunspots very easily, by just driving to work/school daily.  Thus, I lather on sunscreen on my face, even if it's cloudy/rainy outside.  I've tried all sorts of sunscreen and over the next few posts, will comment on the ones I like and dislike.

When I went on a Europe trip 3 years ago, one of my must do was to visit a pharmacy and purchase European branded sunscreen.  The La Roche-Posay brand was not available in the US yet and I read through blogs that it was a good sunscreen to try.  Thus, my haul included the La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen for both myself and my kids (they have a kid spray version).

I have to say, I was a bit disappointed with the La Roche-Posay sunscreen.  It's quite heavy and leaves a shiny sheen.  Since I have combination skin, it's not for me.  It also made me break out after a week.  For normal or dry skin skin type, this may work.

Directions: after morning routine, lather on sunscreen all over face, neck, and chest area.

Where to Buy: available from all US drugstores, in Europe - Boots and other local pharmacies, Amazon, etc.

Mario Badescu Seaweed Night Cream

I've been a big fan of Mario Badescu ever since I discovered their pimple cream (best ever - please see future post).  Since I was in a need for a night cream, I thought I would try one from Mario Badescu.

Directions:  after cleansing, toner and serum, put night cream all over face.

The Mario Badescu Seaweed Night Cream is light green with some light beads (not sure from what).  It is medium texture and for combination skin like me, feels a bit heavy.  Although it's meant for oily and combination skin type, it leaves a shiny sheen which is okay for night but shouldn't be used for day.  I'm also using this only during the Winter because I need more moisture in my skin.

Where to Buy:  choices are endless as you can buy product on Mario Badescu website, Amazon, Anthropologie (where I bought the product), Urban Outfitter, etc. 

Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream

I was so in love with the Mizon Snail Ampoule that I decided to go for another product by Mizon.  Since I needed to add eye cream to the Lancome Eye Illuminating Concentrate, I decided to try the Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream.

Directions;  after cleansing and toning, put eye cream around the eyes.

I concentrate on the area under the eyes.  I've been using this product for a month now and like the light texture of the cream.  It's light yet creamy at the same time.   I haven't seen significant difference in my under-eye circles or crow's feet yet but hoping the effects would come.

Where to Buy:  Amazon, KBeauty shops, Target, Urban Outfitters  

Lancome Genifique Eye Illuminating Youth Activating Concentrate

As I wrote on my last post, my friend Kwan introduced me to the Lancome Genifique brand.  I decided to try the eye concentrate since my crow's feet needed some help. 

Directions: use the drop to spread the serum under and over eye

I use the Lancome Genifique Light Pearl Eye Illuminating concentrate as part of my night routine.  I have used this product for a year now.  Since a little goes a long way, one bottle can last a long time.  I find that even after the serum, I need to use a eye cream because the serum is quite light.  Per the advertisement, I am to see younger, brighter-looking eyes in 7 days.  I don't believe that is true.  I've been using the serum for a year now and don't see a significant difference.  My crow's feet is not getting worse but they haven't disappeared either.  I also don't see a significant reduction in dark circles.  Due to the cost, I would say save your money and invest it in better eye cream that can really target the areas that you want to address.

Where to Buy: Sephora, major department stores, Duty-Free, and Amazon 

Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate

On my last trip to Thailand, my good friend and beauty fanatic, Kwan, told me about Lancome Genifique and said it's the best wrinkle fighting serum out there.  Thus, the big purchase from duty-free.

Directions:  After cleansing and toner, put a drop or two all over face using the dropper.  A little goes a long way.

Whatever you do, don't drop the bottle on hard floors.  I did that with my first bottle and the glass dropper inside the bottle broke!  It was heart-breaking!

I've used the product for 2 years now and although it's quite costly, a bottle last a long time.  I only use as part of night routine.  Although I'm still fighting wrinkles on my forehead, the wrinkles are less noticeable at times.  I also find that the concentrate tightens the skin.  I'm not sure it's worth the price though as you may be able to find other Asian product that have the same impact without the hefty price.

Where to Buy:  Sephora, major department stores (Macy's, Nordstrom), Duty-free shops, Amazon

Star Rating System

Based on my good friend Julia's recommendation, I added a 3 Star Rating system to the blog. Instead of just my star rating, the reader (this is you!) can add your own rating for products that you've used.  

I used a simple 3 Star Rating because 5 star tends to get skewed to average or the middle.   The rating system is as follows:

3 Star - Buy it!

2 Star - Buy it or Leave it

1 Star - Leave it

Please feel free to click on the rating to add your vote!!

Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate

I'm a big fan of Shiseido products and have been using them for over 20 years.  Their latest essence/serum product called Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate got great reviews.

Directions: after cleansing face, put small potion onto fingertips and massage onto face.

I've been using this concentrate since December and noticed a tightening effect after usage.  The formula has no fragrance and is a bit watery (not as concentrated as an ampoule).  I only use this in the morning routine, rotating across my serum/essence product.  The price is not bad considering its effect and comparable products like Lancome charges double the price.

Where to Buy: major department stores (Macy's, Nordstrom), Shiseido retail stores, Amazon

Tatcha Pure Cleansing Oil

Tatcha has great packaging and the brand makes all their products in Japan.  The Tatch Pure Camellia Cleansing Oil  is a good alternative to DHC Cleansing Oil.  It's much more expensive but the cleansing oil feels purer, more refined.  

Directions:  on dry skin, put oil onto palm and massage oil onto face for 20-30 seconds. 

There is no fragrance to the cleansing oil and is very effective in taking all makeup, dry skin cells from face.  The cleansing oil is very gentle and softens face.  A little goes a long way.  I would not recommend using the product around the eyes to remove eye makeup.  

Where to Buy: Sephora, Tatcha.com, and Amazon

Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash

I'm staying at the W Scottsdale this week for work and it reminded me of how much I love Bliss products.  I was introduced to Bliss 15 years ago when I was living in New York.  The Bliss spa (especially the oxygen facial) was a real treat.  I love staying at the W hotel to partake in their products.  This product is so effective, my hubby uses it too.  A great unisex product!

Directions:  with wet face and hands, massage product onto face and rinse off.

The Fabulous Foaming Face Wash is great for combination and oily skin.   For dry and sensitive skin, you may want to be careful. Although the product is not drying and quite gentle, there are foaming beads that can be too harsh for sensitive skin.   This face wash is gentle enough for general use and very effective on male skin. 

Where to Buy:  any Bliss spa, W hotels worldwide, and Amazon

IOPE Moistgen Emulsion

I was introduced to IOPE in New York last year.  I was in search of a replacement lotion, was in Flushing and randomly went to a KBeauty shop.   The saleslady said this was the best lotion for my skin type (combination).

Directions:  after cleansing and serums, put 1 pump to spread all over face.

I've been using this lotion for a year now but only for morning routine.  This moisturizer is great during the winter months when I need a bit more moisture.  It's not heavy like other skin hydration lotion that I've tried (i.e. Oil of Olay, Shiseido).  There is no oily residue and gives the skin adequate moisture.  For summer months, I use a tiny bit to provide moisture.  One bottle can last a long time.  I'm still using the current bottle for a year and probably have enough for another month or so.

Where to Buy:  in New York, purchase from any KBeauty shops, Amazon also carries this line.

Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule

Out of all 10 step Korean beauty routine, the one that I found new was applying Ampoule.  I didn't know what it was until I did some research. An ampoule is a supercharged serum with higher concentration of active ingredients.  I've been intrigued about whether one would make a difference.  I've heard a lot about snail cream and thus thought I'll try an ampoule made from snail secretion.

Directions: put a drop onto face using the dropper after cleansing and before essence and serums.

I've been using the Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule since January and have been happy with the product.  It feels heavier than an essence but without the oily residue.  It's gentle on the skin and seems to put an extra layer to the skin after toner.   I started using this ampoule only at night but started putting this as part my morning routine two weeks ago.  

Where to Buy:  I purchased this product on Amazon but there are other Korean beauty shops that you can purchase this at.  In the Bay Area, I think the K Beauty shops in Japantown carries this brand.

Sana Nameraka Q10 Essence

I've always been a big fan of Japanese drugstore product, Sana Nameraka.  I first used products from this brand when I was living in Tokyo 10 years ago and still goes back to it.  Here in the States you get it from the Japanese supermarket.  I've used the other lines but like the Q10 one the best (the pink line).

Directions:  after cleansing, put some essence onto skin.

The Sana Nameraka Q10 essence has no smell, is very light and does not leave a oily residue.  It's smooths the skin and provides moisture to the skin.   I've been using this specific product for 6 months now as part of my morning routine. 

Where to Buy:  you can find this product in all the drugstores in Japan.  In the States, you can purchase from Nijiya and Ichiban-kan.  I do see some Sana products on Amazon but not this particular essence.  It's relatively cheap, priced around $20.

Skin Recovery Masque

My favorite product from Yulia, my esthetician, is the Skin Recovery Masque.  I was intrigue about this product from the very first facial from Yulia and have been using this ever since.  The masque smells like pineapple and works wonders!

Directions: after cleansing, spread a very thin layer all over face.  Wash off after 30-45 minutes.

I love this product because you only need very little to create a wonderful smelling mask.  It's not scary looking like other masks (there's a white opaque layer).  It leaves the face feeling very soft, smooth, and instantly brightened.  I try to use this before special occasions.  A bottle can last a long time - I bought this bottle two years ago and only 3/4 way through.  I use this mask about once to twice a week.

Ginseng Astringent

Another product that I love from Yulia, my esthetician, is the Ginseng Astringent.   It's not too drying, has a nice smell, and is effective.  I sampled this product on my very first facial with Yulia and have been using this as part of my daily routine since. 

Directions: after double cleansing, put some astringent on a cotton pad and swipe all over face.  I only use this product as part of my night routine because it's effective for removing all makeup residue.

I've been using this product for over 2 years now and one bottle can last a long time (about a year).   It's been part of my cleansing routine for a while.  I used to use this twice a year but have changed to only using this at night because I find it more effective than the SK-II Clearing Lotion at removing all makeup and cleansing residue.

Glycolic Mud Cleanser

I'm a big believer in facials and have been going to an esthetician in San Carlos ever since we moved to our new house.  I usually go once a quarter. Yulia, my esthetician, also makes her own products (through a manufacturer in LA) and one of her product that I love is the Glycolic Mud Cleanser.  One bottle can last for a year and it's great because it's tough enough to take all the grime out but gentle enough where it doesn't dry out the face.

Directions: after cleansing with oil cleanser, smear on a thin layer all over face and gently massage for 15-20 seconds. I only use for night routine.

I've been using this product for about 2 years now and feel that it does wonder on keeping my skin clean.  I used to use this cleanser twice a day but it may be too drying to do this twice.  Thus, I only use this as part of my double cleanse at night. I switch off between using this and the Tatcha powder cleanser now after the oil cleanser.  

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

This is by far my favorite drugstore beauty product.  Since I have combination skin, I want a cleanser that's effective on acne and oily skin but not drying.  The Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser fits the bill.  It's easy to use, gentle on the skin and leaves skin clean and silky after cleansing.

Directions: put one pump onto palm and spread all over face.  I usually don't massage with this cleanser.  Rinse with lukewarm water.

I've been using this product for over 20 years now.  Even my hubby uses it for his skin.  There is no smell to the cleanser yet it's effective, softening and mild.  

Think Dirty Rating: 10

I'm totally shocked on this rating.  This gentle cleanser seems to be the perfect organic product yet it's 10 on Carcinogenicity and 10 on Developmental & Reproductive toxicity.   Out of the 8 ingredients, there are 3 that rate higher than a 7, with Butylparaben with the highest rating of 10.  Health impact of Butylparaben include toxic to reproduction, hormone dirsruptor and carcinogen.

I'm happy to say that my two daughter was not affected by the reproductive toxicity of this product.   Maybe since I've used this product for so long the toxins no longer stays in my body?  I love this product so much I will continue to use it as part of my morning routing =)

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

So I bought in the hype on this cultish beauty product from Japan.  It's used by all the beautiful celebrities in Asia as well as US (my fave being Cate Blanchett - talk about flawless face!).  I've been following this brand for a while and trying out the duty-free samples as often as I can.  When I saw that there was a good deal on Virgin Atlantic sky mall, I took the plunge and bought a full bottle. 

Directions: you can either use a cotton pad but I learned from the saleslady to use my palms so that my hands can benefit as well.  Put some essence onto your palm (or cotton pad) and pad softly onto face. I usually start with my forehead since that's where I need the most help.

I started using this product since early November and although there's been no dramatic changes, I do find that my face is less oily (I have combination skin) and pores on my cheek area are getting a bit smaller.  The wrinkles on my forehead hasn't gone away but maybe it takes time.  I'm 3 months into the product and have only used a 1/4 of the bottle so one bottle can last a while (as it should since it's so expensive).  The smell is a bit funky, it reminds of fermentation; which makes sense since the essence is made from rice fermentation process.  The smell can last a while on the skin so make sure your emulsion, moisturizer and/or suntan lotion will mask the smell.

Overall I'm happy with the product for now.  I'll wait until I get to the end of the bottle to report whether I like it enough to buy another expensive bottle.

Think Dirty

Think Dirty App

So I just learned about the Think Dirty app from a friend.  She recommended that I add toxicity rating into my product posts.  What a great idea!  However, I quickly realized that only non-Asian products have bar codes and probably for good reason since US products are heavily regulated by the FDA (I should know, I work for a drug company!!) and bar codes are on everything.  We will soon be able to track down product from the manufacturing origin which is all a good thing for consumers.

I will post the rating from Think Dirty app on all products that do have ratings - be on the lookout for them!

SK II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion

I bought into the SK-II hype after looking at numerous commercial ads.  The brand ambassadors truly have amazing skin (both Asian and non-Asian).  When I saw that there was a deal on Virgin Atlantic sky mall, I decided to take a chance.  Originally I was going to buy only the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence but the only package they had was a dual package with the Clear Lotion.  The Clear Lotion was essentially free since the dual package but the same price as the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence alone in the duty-free shop.

Directions: after cleansing face, put some clear lotion onto cotton pad and wipe all over face.

The Clear Lotion has no smell and looks like purified water.  I haven't seen a major difference in using the Clear Lotion specifically.  I would say save the money for emulsion and essence and find a cheaper alternative.

Clarins Super Restorative Replenishing Comfort Mask

The Clarins Super Restorative Replenishing Comfort Mask is a great buy.  I received a sample from Nordstrom and liked it so much I bought a full bottle.   The mask smells nice without being overwhelming.

Directions: squeeze the bottle and put a light layer all over face.  Keep mask on for 15-20 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.

The texture of the mask is very light in nature.  You can detect a difference after only one application.  The face is very smooth and the face is brighten.  It's doesn't dry out the skin like other masks so it's perfect for the winter.

Tatcha Polished Rice Enzyme Powder

This is a fairly new product I'm trying as part of my two-step cleansing process.  I received a free sample of Tatcha Gentle Polished Rice Enzyme Powder and loved it so much that I bought a small bottle of the Classic.  The like the Gentle version better than the Classic.

Directions:  make sure face and palm are wet.  Put a small portion of powder onto palm and mix with lukewarm water.  Massage onto face for 20-30 seconds.  Rinse off and dry face.

I usually use the cleansing oil first before using the enzyme powder to double cleanse my face at night (I don't do this in the morning).  As stated, I like the Gentle version better than the Classic version because it's gentler on the face.   With the two step cleansing process, I already feel like my face has gotten clearer with less blackheads and no whiteheads appearing.

Shiseido Pureness Deep Cleansing Foam

When I was haunted by acne back in high school, I tried everything under the sun to make the pimples go away.  I tried the Shiseido Pureness brand because it was advertised to target acne.

Directions: squeeze a nickel size onto palm.  Spread onto face and massage for 15-20 seconds.  The foam should activate to remove any grime and makeup.

The Pureness deep cleansing foam is very light.  It did not irritate the acne but I did not find the cleanser very effective.  I don't think the product penetrate the skin deep enough to remove dirt that can lead to blackheads and whiteheads.  The product did smell quite nice, compared to the store available acne combating products.  If you want something to combat acne, try another brand of products.  Use this only if you have minor acne and/or have sensitive skin.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

The Neutrogena Oil-free Eye Makeup Remover is the best product ever!  I've used it for so long, I can't remember life without it.  Ever since I started applying mascara, I've used this product.  This eye makeup remover is super effective & gentle.  It doesn't leave oily residue and removes all traces of waterproof mascara.

Directions:  put some on cotton pad and wipe across eye to remove makeup.

Did I say I love this product??  I swear by this and the Neutrogena makeup remover cleansing towelette.  I wish they make this eye makeup remover in travel size so that I can use it when I travel.  But since they don't, I use the second best option, which is the cleansing towelette when I travel.

Think Dirty Rating: 10

I'm in total disbelief that my favorite drugstore product is a whopping 10 in the toxicity rating!  I've been using this product for well over 20 years and am thankful that my eyelids, eyelashes, and under eye area are still intact.  The Carcinogencity rating is off the chart at 10.

Out of all ingredients the main culprit is Benzalkonium Chloride Solution.  It is used as a preservative which makes sense because this remover can last a lifetime.

I'm totally bummed about this rating but since it's on my all time beauty list, I will continue to subject myself to the its toxins.

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

I fell in love with Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes when I was in my early days as a consultant working super long hours and before I knew anything about skin routine.  The cleansing towelettes is easy to use, effective and very portable.  It's great for travels and late night parties =)

Directions: use one towelette to remove all grime and makeup from face.  Can be used in the eye area.  I usually use the back of the towelette to do a second wipe.

This leaves the face super clean yet not oily or dry.  One towelette is enough, even for waterproof eye makeup.

Think Dirty Rating: 9
I was totally shocked when I discovered that this cleansing towelette has a rating of 9 (out of 10 which is the highest).  The Developmental & Reproductive toxicity is off the charts - pretty close to a 10.

Based on the ingredients listing, the biggest culprit is due to Fragrance which received a 9.  The wipe doesn't require fragrance - why have it in there at all?

It's a good I don't use it on my kids and now I really won't whether the wipes I do use on them have similar toxicity rating. 

Shiseido Pure Retinol Express Smoothing Eye Mask

This eye mask from Shiseido is luxury at its best.  It contours well underneath the eye and is thick.

Directions: apply patch underneath the eye.  Leave on for 15-20 minutes.

After applying the eye mask, the under eye circles seem to lighten a bit.  The eye area is brightened.  However, at its current price, not sure it's worth the luxury.  There are other brands that has similar effects at half the price.

Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil

Claim to be the original creator of the cleansing oil, the Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil is the ultimate oil master.   I used the high performance balancing cleansing oil and thought it was very effective.  However, at over $40/bottle for small bottle, the cleansing power was not priority enough for me to continue using it.  There are many other brands (including my other post on DHC Deep Cleansing Oil) that have equal effectiveness without the high price tag.

Directions: on dry face, put a pump or two of the cleansing oil and massage onto face for 20-30 seconds.  Rinse off with lukewarm water (they say cold is better but it's too much for me) and dry off.

There is a cleansing oil for different skin sensitivity and skin needs (brightening, balancing, premium, etc.).  However, I'm not a big believer that a cleanser can help you with skin needs such as brightening, wrinkle repair, etc.  The purpose of the cleanser is to clean and remove dead skin cells so that your skin can absorb the nutrients found in essence, moisturizer, etc.  Make sure to find a good cleanser that can clean but put your investment into skin cream that can be absorbed into the skin.

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

This Japanese brand cleansing oil is great!  It's not too expensive, can be found on Amazon and Nijiya (Japanese super market) and does the job right.   The DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is comparable to Shu Uemura oil cleanser and about a third of the price.

Directions:  on dry face, put one pumpful of oil onto palm and spread across face.  Massage the oil using circular motion for about 20-30 seconds.  Rinse off.

There is no smell to this oil and cleansing leaves the face squeaky clean.  If you want extra clean, use another cleanser for dual cleanse. 

DHC Eye Mask

I purchased the DHC Revitalizing Moisture Strips from Nijiya, a Japanese super market, that carries DHC beauty products.  The box comes with 6 pouches with 2 strips each.  

Directions: apply the strips under the eye for 20-30 minutes.  For more effectiveness, leave overnight.

The first time I applied the strips, I left them overnight per the directions but it left ceases under my eye that lasted a few hours.  The strips are not as effective as other eye masks that I've tried.  Although it's quite reasonable in price, save your money and move on to better eye masks.

Dead Sea Mud Mask

I recently purchased this product after reading many reviews on Amazon.  The Dead Sea Mud Mask by Pure Body Naturals originates from Israel.  The mask is very thick and dark.  When I apply it, I try not to have my hubby around or else he may think I'm a zombie!

Directions: spread a thin layer all over the face (and neck if you prefer) and leave on for 15-20 minutes.  I usually leave mine on for at least 30 minutes to prolong the effectiveness.

After washing off the mask, the face feels instantly tightened and very clean.  Mind you, I double cleanse with oil cleanser and glycolic mud cleanser before applying mask.  The pores seem smaller and less visible.

Dermal Collagen Sheet Mask

Within the KBeauty 10 step process, weekly sheet masks is a must.  There are so many choices!!  I started with the Dermal Gold Collagen Sheet Mask and expanded to the variety pack.  Thus far, I've tried Green Tea from the variety pack and don't think there's a difference between the Gold and the Green Tea.  The product foundation is probably the same.

Directions: after cleansing face, put the sheet mask on for 15-30 minutes (I usually do 45).  Tap the rest of the product onto face to absorb the essence.  Continue the rest of beauty routine thereafter (i.e. essence, emulsion, etc.).

I find this sheet mask to be quite moist and covers the face well.  After 40-45 minutes, the sheet mask is still not totally dry like other sheet masks.  I haven't seen significant changes after using the sheet mask but find that the skin has a lot more moisture.  Don't think there's any improvements in the wrinkle reduction area.

Petitfee Gold EGF Eye and Spot Patch

This product hails from Korea.  The patches are jelly-like soaked in gold and EGF (not sure what this is!).  It's full of essence and gets absorbed into the skin.  It has a perfumery smell.

Directions:  using the scooper, carefully lift an half circular eye patch and apply underneath the eye.  Be careful not to cover the eye.  Spot patches can be applied anywhere - I usually put it on my forehead for wrinkle reduction.

The texture of the patches are thick and after application, slowly gets absorbed by the skin and becomes thinner.  There is also a cooling feeling upon application.  I don't put this in the refrigerator but I read that you can for a more cooling treatment.  When I applied this the very first time, the under eye area was so sensitive that there was a tingling uneasy feeling.  It went away after 15 minutes or so and did not happen future treatments.   I did not find miraculous results after one treatment but do find that my under-eye circles are less apparent.  I use this about twice a week when I'm not doing other face masks. 

su:m 37 White Award Detox Mask

This mask hails from Korea and has very positive reviews on Amazon.  I purchased the individually packaged mask that is suppose to be the equivalent to a bottle.  

I have tried bubbling oxygen masks before this masks take to to a different level!  The liquid is clear but upon putting it on the face, it turns ash white and starts bubbling immediately.  

Directions: on clean face, put the liquid lotion all around the face, making sure to avoid eyes, nose, and mouth.  You can physically see the change within 1 sec.  The bubbling will continue until mask is done (around 20-30 minutes).   Wash off afterward.

The bubbling effect is very interesting and for a while you think the bubble foam will start dripping.  Luckily, nothing drips and what you have afterward is a very clean feeling.  Pores do seem to have tighten and even with one mask, the skin looks whiter.  I will just need to get used to all the bubbles!

Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

I was introduced to this product by a coworker who is experimenting with KBeauty products.  I purchased this product on Amazon and have been using it since early January.

The Laneige Sleeping Mask is very light yet a little goes a long way.  The product has a very light perfume smell and per directions from the manufacturer, you should take some time to breathe in the smell for extra lift.  

 Direction: I use the scoop spoon (pictured with the product above) to get the product from the jar and dab onto my face.  I then use my fingers to lightly spread the product all over my face.  I use this mask once a week.

After using this mask, I do find that my skin is brighter and more refreshed the next day.  It's also softer.