Instant Glow Argan Soap for Face and Neck: The Golden Bar?

With my wonderful experience using Instant Argan Oil, I wanted to see if I could get even more out of the line. The next time I had a free day, I rushed on over to Watson's and got me a bar of Instant Glow Morocco Argan Oil Argan Soap for Face and Neck (PHP 249). I parted with my hard earned PHP 200 +  with the highest expectations from this miracle oil-based cleanser. Now before I get into the actual review, here's what the product looks like:

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="480"] A sealed box[/caption]

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="480"] Quite a big bar of soap, as you can see when put beside my 100mL bottle of argan oil[/caption]

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="480"] Ingredients[/caption]

The packaging is simple but hygienic, with emphasis placed on protecting the bar of soap inside. A sealed plastic wrap on the box gives it a bonus of 100+ points because at least I know that what I've purchased hasn't been pawed by whoever stopped to check the display. Then there's the bubble wrap inside that cushions the soap from getting banged up. Once that's been discarded, there is a final layer of saran wrap separating the precious soap from the elements.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="360"] Bubble wrap![/caption]

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="480"] Another layer: massive bar wrapped in saran[/caption]

Now for the actual usage of the soap... The gigantic size of this argan soap bar kind of justifies the price, and so does the list of ingredients that include witch hazel and shea butter. Upon first whiff, I got the overwhelming buttery smell of hopia mongo—not a bad thing as I don't mind the scent of Filipino-Chinese pastries at all. A decent lather is created when rubbed with water, though not enough that it feels like germicidal soap.

I was instructed by the sales attendant to massage the lather onto my face and leave it for about 5 minutes, which was impossible for me because I always ended up getting stingy suds in my eyes. After washing my face, I could feel a tightness in the skin. My combination-normal skin might not be 100% compatible with this formula that I find too strong for me. This argan soap also didn't seem to help clear my minor breakouts. However, I've seen the other reviews and my guess is that this soap is better-suited to oilier skin types to really get in there and strip away the sebum.

Because I don't agree with the formula, I've been using this as a body soap instead. I  wouldn't say that it has helped lighten my skin, but it does last a loooooong time before the bar dissolves into nothingness. When the sales girl told me it was matipid (thrifty), she meant it. My recommendation? Find a friend and split a bar, so that you're not left with too much if this isn't a good match for you. The sales attendant herself told me that she slices the soap bar in half with a knife, thereby preserving the other half and prolonging her usage. Hmm... good money-saving tip there.

My Rating: 3.5/5 Bar soaps tend to be harsh, even when they're intended for the face. They'll never really get a high rating from me from the get go, unless I use one that practically defies gravity. Good soap, but a little drying when used on the face. I'd stick to the argan oil instead.

Faking Apple

As a present for myself--for the next two years, because this is way over the budget--I got an iPod Nano from Power Mac Center. At the till, I asked the lady if a generic wall socket adapter/plug would do for charging and, of course, she said no. That's how I ended up buying an original Apple wall socket (PHP 1,090, according to the Apple online store).

Before I get to the main point, a little background story:

My generic adapter came with an MP3 player/speaker cube I got for Christmas last year. By the way, the speaker cube is the best. Before I got the iPod, I used it as an MP3 player by inserting a micro-SD card loaded with music into its built-in slot. It functioned the same way as an iPod Shuffle (well, but without the shuffle). No screen. The sound blasted loud and clear, while the battery power was very good.

When I got my Nano, I decided to use the wire that came with the speaker cube to connect it with my iPod. Though the resulting sound wasn't as loud as if I had directly inserted an SD card into the device (if the speaker was on full-blast), it could be adjusted by having the speaker on full blast while setting the iPod volume to 3/4s of the way full.

In summary, get the MP3 cube if you want a value-for-money speaker/audio player  that does the job good.

Okay, back to the plugs. I now have 2 plugs that I have to distinguish every time I want to charge, since they have similarities. It's not so hard to tell the difference when you look closer though. Here's a side-by-side comparison:

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="640"] (Left) Apple original plug and (Right) generic/fake plug[/caption]

Exhibit A: Front View

The very first way to distinguish the real one from the fake one has got to be text printed on the surface of the plug. Apple's has a more natural look to it, whereas the generic one has a "stamped-on" appearance to it. Second, the actual text differs. Apple's says "Designed by Apple in California," while generic's says "Designed HT WHP in California." Third, the shade of gray and texture on each plug's face is different. Apple's is a lighter color with a smooth, frosted/matte texture, while the generic one is darker with a patterned/rough surface.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="640"] (Left) Apple original plug and (Right) generic plug[/caption]

Exhibit B: Back View

The most glaringly obvious differences can be found in the backs of the plugs. Apple's USB slot is found at the top, while the generic one's slot is found near the bottom. Upon further inspection, I noticed how the USB slot in the generic one is looking a bit crooked. Also, the colors of the faces are different again, with the generic one having a yellowish tinge to it.

The Verdict:

Well, it's not so confusing when you put the two side-by-side. Will I still use the generic plug? Not if I can help it. When it comes to electronics, I try not to risk it. I've had an awful experience with second-rate goods before, so I don't like to take my chances.

BEAutiful Soul: The Almost Acca Kappa

It all started with an argument... I was going out on an errand and was completing my so-called OOTD with a spritz (or four!) of cologne, which just so happened to be my mom's Acca Kappa Muschio Bianco that day. (I've been known to sneak a few spritzes of the clean-smelling scent when the mood strikes.) Mom was there and got a little upset that I was using her special occasion scent for errands.

Mom: Don't use that. I hardly use it myself, only saving it for when there are big events.

Me: You hoard perfumes, and you totally shouldn't. They either dry up or start to stink.

Okay, I feel a little bad for using her favorite scent for a mall run, so I opted to shop for my own bottle of an alternative instead. That's right, Acca Kappa has an alternative that's very affordable at PHP 348. May I present Kashieca BEAutiful Soul:

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="560"] Isn't the bottle reminiscent of Givenchy's Dahlia Noir?[/caption]

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="354"] Dahlia Noir[/caption]

It's been around since 2010, but I've only just discovered it this year because I can be very out-of-the-loop sometimes. I was window shopping some months ago with my mom, and she was so amazed that it smelled exactly like Muschio Bianco. At the time, we didn't bother getting it because she still had a mostly full bottle of Acca Kappa on her dresser. It stuck with me though.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="420"] Musky[/caption]

What's nice:

• The packaging is pretty with regard to box and bottle. Like I said, the bottle shape and lid brought to mind a stripped-down Dahlia Noir, while the box is a little quirky but cute. Seeing that it's a celebrity scent for Bea Alonzo, the box design is probably a nod to her.


• Under the lid is a black spritzer which I thought added a touch of class.

What's fneh:

• The bottle size is bulky for small purses, but PHP 348 for 65 mL is a good deal. Okay, no complaints! Thank goodness I'm used to lugging around a sack of a bag.


• On me, it doesn't have much of a staying power. To be fair, my skin makes fragrances with high alcohol content vanish in a jiffy. Even the actual Acca Kappa cologne doesn't last that long. Re-sprays are inevitable.


• Of course, this scent is not a 100% replica of Acca Kappa. You get the clean muschio bianco scent at the beginning that eventually has a dry down of fruity-meets-spicy pink peppercorn.

What's not nice:

• A sticker label on the bottle comes off as a little tacky if you're conscious about displaying it on a show dresser.

Rating: 4.5/5. Nice enough for daily use. I'd personally wear this at home or outside when I don't want a scent that leaves too much of an impression. In short, it's good for a mellow day.

Avon Anew 360 White Intensive Serum

(Note: It's been around a while, but I'd like to review this since I've only just started using it and I can't seem to find other reviews on the net.)

Truth be told, I have a smattering of light-colored freckles on me. It's a natural process, so I've taken to ignoring it. This year, I seem to have developed one or two deeply colored dark spots that I absolutely detest, so I'm willing to finally try a whitening product. When I read the ingredients for Anew 360 White Intensive Serum, I was pleasantly surprised to find Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate listed somewhere in there. Because that matches my Tony Moly Intensive Care Galactomyces First Essence (not to mention yeast ferment is the key ingredient of luxury products like SK-II), I decided to pair the two together and see if my little lightening experiment is going to work.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="360"] New and improved ingredients list[/caption]

It's worth mentioning, that 360 White Intensive Serum has undergone a makeover, packaging- and ingredients-wise. How do I know? Mom has been using this even before I became interested with this line. The old bottle was also very modern-looking, suitable to the year 2000's design of sleek, smooth, silvery, and robot-like. The serum dispenses through a dropper that I thought impractical when I tested Mom's bottle, since it was only able to hold a small amount of liquid at a time and was kind of messy to dispense because of the consistency of the product. On the other hand, the new bottle is coated in a shimmery white color that fades with a gradient effect towards the bottom, revealing the actual color of the serum. The new packaging also has more lines and edges. It's literally more edgy. For the ingredients, I did a side-by-side comparison of the old packaging and the new one. There were slight differences with the type/s of ferment filtrate, but I just shrugged it off.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="461"] (Left) The year 2000's 360 White Serum; (Right) Current Packaging of the serum[/caption]

After applying my essence and waiting a few minutes for it to completely dry, I put 2-3 pumps of the serum all over my face and neck twice a day.

This is actually my first ever bottle of serum. I've always just stuck to creams and gels in the past. Let me tell you, I love the texture of serum! Creams tend to look shiny and feel too thick, but you have to endure it because of the need for moisture. This is wonderfully smooth, but I still occasionally top it off with some moisturizer when my skin is feeling a little parched.

Verdict:

When I saw this in the brochure, I was impressed by its claim of PSP technology, something about how the formula emulates the way the skin on the palms don't develop any dark spots. This product is supposed to block melanin formation, so goodbye dark spots.

Pros:

• I like serums now, thanks to this! I've always just used moisturizers and am, therefore, immune to the thick texture of creams. Serums are ideal for when you want non-stick skin. If I'm staying at home and out of the sun, I think I could get away with just serum.


• In my opinion, it seems to have had some effect. Don't know if my eyes deceive me, but it seems like the edges on my ridiculously darkly-colored dark spot has lightened a bit.

Cons:

• Especially around the nose area, I sometimes get a small stinging sensation. (Or maybe it's just that I have a very sensitive nose area. It tends to react that way with a lot of other products.)

Will I repurchase? Not just yet. It's an okay product, but not something I have rave reviews for. I recommend using this for maintenance of already-fair skin. Also, I have another Avon Anew product slated for review after this, so I'll wait and see how that one fares.

Overall, I'd give it a 3.5/5 rating. Slightly above average for working to a certain extent. Nothing amazing though. For the sale price I bought it at PHP 699, I would say that it offers so-so value for money. (Whitening products in the Philippines are often sold at a premium price.) A month later, this went on sale again for PHP 699, but with a free small jar of Anew 360 White day or night cream. Try to wait it out for a nicer offer to get more bang for your buck.

The Vitamin Fix

When we hit the road, we hit the road hard. When I say "we", I mean just about anyone who I work or hang out with. It's usually very intense when I've got work to do, so the sleep-deprived nights are part of the deal. Eventually, the immune system conks out from the fatigue and I start coming down with a cold, a cough, or a fever. Yes, I'm well-aware that my habits aren't precisely to-die-for.

After all is said and done, there is no substitute for the genuine article: R&R (rest and relaxation). BUT if you find that you have to keep yourself going in spite of your exhaustion (be it from travel-related fatigue or work weariness), sometimes the best solution is to add some effervescence to the mix.

I am obsessed with effervescent vitamin tablets. It seems to me that they're the fastest way to get a much-needed energy kick. Mind you, this is no Sting, Red Bull, or Cobra. The nice flavor and fizzed-up water provides a pick-me-up when you need something in a flash. Plus, if you don't want to get out of control with the instant juice mixes, this is a pretty clever alternative.

As you can see from the photo, I've stocked up the best I can. Redoxon (leftmost and rightmost on the photo) seems to be readily available most anywhere except the Philippines. It's sold in Canada, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Korea, etc. For the life of me, I haven't found it in Manila. Optisana (second to the left) can be found in... Santi's Delicatessen for PHP 96. Cheaper than Berocca, but I haven't had the chance to compare vitamin content. Finally, Dr. Elizabeth's (second to the right) was on sale, but I don't remember the price.

The con? Make no mistake, these are all sugar-free but contain aspartame. That's why I still take the regular old pill-form vitamins. I just like to have one of these canisters in my purse for when I'm feeling like something nasty is about to come on. A little vitamin boost may just be what the doctor ordered...

Eco Friendly Baggie

In supporting the eco-friendly Philippines movement, I've indulged in countless eco bags to haul my purchases in—not that I have that many purchases to speak of. Most times, I use the generic, cheapo bags that all the big groceries offer. It's inexpensive and can haul some heavy loads so long as the bottom is supported while carrying.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="324"] Typical, but it works[/caption]

Last Saturday, I met with some old friends to celebrate our group Christmas party. Eva of UVLA Store gave all the gals goodies from her collection.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="480"] (Left) Pouch and (Right) Bag[/caption]

Aren't these just the cutest eco bags??? They're very Bohemian, well-suited to the quirky, vintage-loving, Cubao  X crowd. I've been telling Eva that she reminds me of Jessica Day, Zooey Deschanel's hipster-chic character from New Girl.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="420"] Who's that girl? It's Jess Eva![/caption]

If you're in the Cubao area, do stop by UVLA Store at Cubao X. I guarantee that each visit will be interesting, since they've always got some freshly acquired toy or trinket to gawk at.

Beauty for a Cause

Impulse buying this holiday season has mostly gotten me into trouble! Nothing terrible, mind you, but just a tad bit excessive than the budget I usually stick to. Of course, that can be expected of the holidays. Cosmetic companies are forever coming up with gift/value packs, palettes, and other special edition items, making it the ideal time to hoard beauty loot for the year ahead. One of my explorations have brought me to the web-based doorstep of Bon Marche, an online beauty store that deals US brands for competitive prices.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="560"] Budget-friendly US drugstore brands and more[/caption]

Yes, I know it sounds like an endorsement, but I'm not affiliated with Bon Marche. I just really like their offerings. For example, I saw a special offer by the shop to help out the victims of Typhoon Haiyan. Selected items from Maybelline, Revlon, and Burt's Bees were offered at PHP 180 each, with all proceeds going to charity. Perhaps this was one time when my impulse buying could actually do some good. Here's what I ended up getting:

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="420"] Revlon Diamond Lust Eyeshadow in Plum Galaxy and Colorburst Lip Butter in Sugar Frosting[/caption]

For the record, I was very pleased with Bon Marche's service. The transaction was quick and painless, while the delivery was prompt. I paid PHP 180 each for the eyeshadow and lipstick, plus the PHP 60 shipping fee. My (sealed!) Revlon goodies came packed properly, and the eyeshadow was bubble wrapped for safety. I was positively giddy when the package arrived and, yes, I do plan on purchasing more stuff from Bon Marche in future. :)

The Mask

When I have the time, I like to do these once-a-week "Spa" Days at home where I'll do some hair and face treatments from the comfort of my own bathroom. Out come the scrubs, deep conditioners, and pore cleansing strips. To add some flavor to the routine, I became  interested in trying out a  face mask from The Face Shop to see if they actually make a difference. This is the result:

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="384"] Either I look like a luchador or a wannabe Bloody Face from American Horror Story[/caption]

Apart from looking stupid for the duration of the treatment, did I notice any beautifying effects?... Um, yes and no. Yes in that there is moisture—too much moisture—literally dripping from the mask. Since the blogs I read beforehand didn't go into detail on the 'how-to's of using these types of face masks, I was a little clueless coming in. The mask sheet was practically submerged in liquid from the packaging. I had to keep it on my face for a good 15 minutes. As much as possible, I didn't try to wring out the liquid to get a soak. However, that caused the formula to drip down my neck or onto my scalp. Suffice it to say, it was a weird sensation.

No, because it feels all too temporary. Why should I bother with a soaked mask sheet that comes off in a little bit when I could just spring for a cream-type sleeping mask that comes on like any old moisturizer? No mess and no need to time.

All in all, I think it is but a novelty. If you receive it for free with your PHP 500 and above purchase from a Korean makeup brand, then that's well and good. As for going out and buying it on purpose (even though it costs as little as PHP 50), I'd think twice.

A Magical Christmas

Perhaps magic is in the air this "fall". 

A Hairy Mess Part 2

Apart from a good ol' rinse-off hair treatment, crazy frizzy locks like mine require other products to weigh it down. I've tried leave-on conditioners before (Sunsilk's Smooth and Manageable and Pantene), but now I want to spring for some hair oil because it's the new "it" product for hair. Dove Hair Therapy Nourishing Oil Care Serum, to be precise. (Fun Fact: In the US, Dove haircare's endorser is Parks and Recreation's Rashida Jones.)

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="420"] Dove Nourishing Oil Care Nutri-Oil Serum[/caption]

It seemed like a bad idea at first, because hair oil on a person who doesn't want greasy strands sounds so counterproductive. But as long as the product stays away from the roots, then all should be well. The intended use of a hair oil is mostly to add a bit of shine to otherwise dull hair, in addition to moisturizing and smoothing the strands. IMHO Perhaps the appeal of the oil over leave-on conditioners is that the formula is often lighter or weightless. If you have thick hair and you don't want the added volume, maybe a thinner liquid like this is ideal.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="360"] Product info[/caption]

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="360"] Ingredients[/caption]

You get 40ml of oil in a plastic bottle with pump dispenser for PHP 239. Compared to a leave-on, that's expensive, but I personally only use 2-3 pumps at a time and only when I remember to put it on. It'll last me a good couple of months. The small size makes it a staple in my bag as it's so easy to tote around when a quick hair fix is needed.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="360"] 2-3 pumps on the palm[/caption]

When you think of serum, what comes to mind is a consistency that's thicker than oil or water but thinner than cream. This particular hair serum has the exact consistency of oil, so don't be surprised that it's runny. Like I said, I employ 2-3 pumps of product for my chest-length hair. I like to warm the oil in my palms by thoroughly rubbing both hands together and then applying to the hair from the nape of the neck down. Then I comb to spread it out evenly. Sometimes I use it while my hair is still damp, but mostly I like to apply when my hair is already dry. I try to be very careful with the amount I pump out. Too much of any oil becomes greasy.

The make or break factor of this oil serum has got to be the scent. It has this strong, slightly smoky smell that reminds me of a gentleman's pomade of olden times. If you don't want a product that messes with your shampoo and/or conditioner's scent, this is so not for you. If you're okay with that type of scent, then this is a handy product to have in your purse. Something I'd give a 4.5/5 to because of the sometimes-distracting scent.