Review: Neutrogena Fine Fairness

It was the need for both a budget-friendly and effective product that urged me to try some of Neutrogena's Fine Fairness products. I was at the mall with another (expensive but effective) product in mind when I came across Neutrogena's display. I needed something to brighten up my skin and fade my pimple marks and after a few minutes of chatting with the promodiser and deciding whether to go for it or not, kuripot tendencies got the better of me and I gave in (Yes, there was a promo). I got the Foam Cleanser, Day Lotion with SPF 30, and Overnight Brightening Cream for only P1,000+.

After almost 3 months of using them, here's my little review of each:

Fine Fairness Foam Cleanser

Foam Cleanser

Before this, I was using VMV's Spring Cleaning Foam Cleanser for Dry Skin and Lactacyd Blue alternately; I have oily skin and I swear by oil-free moisturizing facial wash. Like all foam products, you need to lather up a pea-size amount in your palm or a facial cloth. Apply and massage your skin gently as you cleanse. 

Overnight Brightening Cream

Night Cream

This is the first time I used separate creams for day and night. After toning with my VMV Spring Cleaning toner, I apply this on. It has a lotion consistency and a little sticky, but great for moisturizing. I didn't notice any dramatic improvement on my dark spots within my 3 months of use, but I did like the bright glow it gives overtime. I noticed that when I wake up in the morning and wash my face, there remains a sheen of healthy brightness on my face. :)

Day lotion with SPF 30

Day Lotion

The day lotion is less thicker than the night cream and may feel a little sticky upon application, but it dries up fast. At least on my skin. I only applied a little on my first few days of use but I noticed that my face would feel dry after a few hours so now I apply liberal amounts and just allow enough time for it to dry before I powder. 5 minutes in front of a steady fan should be enough. :) The amount needed really depends on how oily or dry your skin is. For me, it's 2-3 pumps depending on the  weather. My face is always oily no matter the moisturizer so what I do is top it off with a little primer before powder. 

As to the effect, like the overnight cream, there's no dramatic change in terms of fading my marks after 3 months of use. But like the overnight brightening cream, it gives a bit of that Korean dewy glow that may work and look very well on girls with combination or dry skin. 

Overall, I can give these three a 4/5 mark for the glow and moisturizing benefits. For the brightening though, there's no noticeable change, but I'm willing to give it a few more months to see the effect. :) Will I buy it again? Maybe as a budget-friendly alternative to the VMV brightening line.

REVIEW: Lunch Sets at Izakaya Kikufuji, Little Tokyo

One of the things that makes me happy about working in Pasong Tamo is being near the best place for authentic Japanese food: Little Tokyo. It is our go-to place whenever my office mates and I crave for anything Japanese. One of our favorite restaurants, Izakaya Kikufuji, is our lunch haven because aside from serving delicious meals, they also have meal sets specially served during lunch. From 11AM to 2PM their lunch menu is served complete with side dishes, rice, and soup. Though the place is usually filled with Nihonjins, this special deal is great for employees in the area like us.

We've been in Izakaya Kikufuji loads of times and with each visit, we left with satisfied tummies and palates. Our table at Kikufuji usually looks like this:

House Tea: a great way to prepare your tummy for their delightful dishes

Korokke Lunch Set: P215

I usually order Tempura (because Tempura is life) but being a potato lover as well, I opted for the Korokke on our recent visit.

Complete lunch set

The lunch set which ranges from P215 to P395 comprises of your main order, rice, soup, shredded cabbage with cucumber and tomato, stewed veggies, and our favorite, spicy tuna sashimi! It's really good and the tempura crunch complemented the tender spicy tuna slices. They have a full plate of this which we always order on top of our side dish, because that side dish simply isn't enough for something so yummy.

Spicy Salmon and Spicy Tuna!

This place is getting more popular especially to folks around the area so it's better to come early or reserve ahead so you won't have to wait too long to be seated. There are regular seats located near the entrance but we always choose a the traditional Japanese Chabudai or short table to complete the experience. Just go in further past the bar and you'll find them.

Also, I wasn't able to take a photo but after your meal, you can request for a glass of iced coffee to cap off your lunch. :)


TOP TIP: Order everything you want at the same time because additional orders take a little while to arrive. And the service crew are a bit difficult to call.

Despite the this small service problem, dining at Izakaya Kikufuji has been and will always be one of my favorite spots for anything Japanese. :)

February 27: A Millennial's Mental Chatter

It's a breezy Saturday afternoon and I as I was enjoying my milk tea, I was also mentally planning ahead my activities for the year while I wait for my cousins to get their coffee. It's been a while since I went out with them for a "tambay day" and it feels so liberating to be out and about without any obligation than just to enjoy the day with a comforting company. Lately I've been feeling a little off. It seems to me like nothing special or exciting has happened in a long time and I admit, I have been blaming it on my circumstances; on a demanding job, on my 'never-enough' savings, on my choice to maintain only a few close friends, etc. I know this is a bad habit and I'm not one to get so negative about things but I guess we really come to a certain point in life where we crave for something regardless of the blessings we have and for me that would be some excitement and adventure (I think). Now, by adventure I don't necessarily mean climbing hills and mountains and sleeping in a tent in the middle of nowhere, but to have a few days where, like today, you can escape responsibilities and simply exist.

I know I sound whiny and maybe I am but I believe I'm not the only one. Maybe I really do not know what I need and maybe I am just burned out by the mundane daily life patterns and thirst for the company of friends where you can be as silly as you can, get drunk on wine, and listen to sappy music. Maybe I just miss being young and stress-free. Ahh, I certainly am whining. Sorry, friends.

But there are simple things that can make our day a little better when we're feeling like this. Like this creamy, creamy Milk Tea from Happy Lemon. I love Milk Tea so much I can replace my water with it if I were not so sensitive to caffeine.

Happy Lemon's Classic Milk Tea is life

Oh, The Great British Festival was happening this time and though I love the UK so much (European-wanna be here) and attended last year's event, I hate crowds and too much noise (now more than ever) and so we just stayed in Starbucks to talk about the mysteries of contentment and how job-hunting can be such a pain.

With all these thoughts haunting us every once in a while (to those who can relate with me), we eventually have to learn to just focus on achieving our goals no matter how unreachable they may seem at the moment and let go of the things we cannot control. I know it's been said, written, and shared repeatedly but what else can we still do? Stressing over money matters, love, work, and the need to run away won't get us anywhere. It might even just cause us to make hasty decisions just to be able to feel that we're in control - and we have to admit that sometimes, we're really not. 

That said, I didn't mean that we cannot make a change when we feel a change is in order, but let's always consider that with each struggle, something in our character is being challenged and quitting is not always the answer. There are times when we have to suck it up, see it through and see what happens after.
I felt better after today. I have not found that answers to my never-ending whiny questions but my mind was temporarily comforted. It really is true that sometimes being with your best friends (or cousins) is all the therapy you need. :)

Comfort foooooood!

Capped off the night with shawarma because... shawarma. Mercato's vibe never disappoints. Even though we sat on the pavement because we couldn't wait for seats anymore and we were hungrrrry!

A little more walking and talking ensued before we eventually decided to home.

Valentine's Day 2016: Being the third wheel

Here's to everyone who had their parents as a valentine date on February 14! I know I wasn't the only one. And instead of sulking at home being jealous of my friends who were able to spend the 14th with their SOs, I decided to celebrate it (happily and with no bitterness) with my mom and dad.

First of all, no I am not single, but I am in a long distance relationship. Due to our busy schedules, the boyfriend and I decided to just have our date some other time. I know some of you might ask, "Not even a surprise bouquet on the day of?" Yes I know in an LDR there should be at least little surprises on occasions such as V-day, but when you're in a long-term LDR, priorities tend to transcend trivial affairs and traditions and focus on long term goals. At least in our relationship. So going back, I gladly third-wheeled with my parents and went to a church-and-dinner bonding on February 14. Greenbelt was so packed with couples and families that I admittedly wasn't able to listen properly to the mass (Sorry, Lord). We decided to dine in at Draft Gastropub because my dad's a huge fan of draft beers and their food is something I knew my mom would like. Luckily, not so many people stayed for dinner as there's work the next day so we didn't have a hard time getting seats.

Here are some shots I managed to take before digging in:

Classic Buffalo Wings

Hoegaarden (Buy 2 get 1 glass)

Sticky Date & Toffee Pudding

Penne

We also got the Chopped Chicken Salad but it was devoured before I could take a picture. :P No drinks for mommy and me (Yes, all three huge glasses of beer were only for my dad) because we wanted to get Milk Tea from Happy Lemon after. :)

I had fun with my parents, but I would admit, if I had the choice, I would have loved to spend the day with my boyfriend. Despite the distance, I am happy that I am in a relationship with a great guy and I am just looking forward to the day when we can spend all kinds of occasions together.

Someday.

P.S. my folks of course enjoyed the date and were requesting for another one soon (So help me and my budget God). :P 

I made my parents happy on V-day, my love life is going great, life's good. :)

2015: The tragic year that was (and what it taught me)

I know a lot of people posted about 2015 not being their year and encountering many challenges during that time, and I cannot help but agree. Before anything else, let me just say that I am not the type to blame circumstances on anything and being the positive person that I am, I always try to accept and let go and do all those sh*z about Positivity and Peace. I have always been grateful for every little blessing keeping in mind that many others are suffering from worse situations and that I am very lucky to be living as I do.

However, there was a series of unfortunate events last year that made me literally say "Good  Riddance" as the clock struck 12 on New Year's Eve. Together with a couple of painful deaths were a minor financial crisis and a health challenge (that I thankfully overcame). It was still a good year but it was darn painful to look back to and I am definitely welcoming this new one with open arms.

Clouded with my own pains, I was not able to notice the pains of my other friends and acquaintances  who have had misfortunes of their own. Thanks to Facebook Memories, I was able to see some of my own and others' share of heartbreaks and losses in 2015; a former OJT who slept at Dec 31, 2014 and never woke to welcome 2015, a former teacher who lost her battle to a deadly disease, the loss of a lot of friends' loved ones (including my boyfriend's mom), some long-term relationship breakups, and many more.

It was indeed a year of suffering, not to mention the natural calamities that always left a lot of families hurt and homeless. But as with all things, pain and suffering bring along with them lessons that will help us get wiser and stronger. And here are some things I learned last year:


1. Always make time for family and cherish every moment by sharing thoughts, playing, and spending some quality time. "No phones" as my boyfriend would always remind me. You never know until when you can take care of them and spend time with them so do it as often as you can.

2. If you want to try something and you can afford it, do it. Even if no one wants to go with you. I am such a baby when trying new things and I always want someone to do it with me and when no one wants to, I let it pass me by. And that may be the biggest mistake I always commit in my life. A few fun things on your own wouldn't hurt compared to a really empty and wasted year.

3. Surprise the people you love 'just because', and do it as often as you can. The little things make a big difference because you never know what people are going through, even those you think you know well. They might be going through a rough time without you know it and randomly treating them to little gifts, treats, or special messages can be the only ray of sunshine they will get in a day or a week.

4. Stay genuine. If I ask you how many crappy, fake, attention-seekers you know, you can probably come up with a few names. In this world (especially in the Social Media Universe) when many people are fighting over petty things, and faking sh*z up for attention, be your legit, unique self and do things, share things, because of genuine intention and passion. Not for petty likes and compliments.

5. Work hard but don't forget to give yourself a break. No matter how resilient you think you are, your soul will always need a breath of fresh air or an adventure. A fresh mind will always be more productive than a stressed out, overworked one. Our VL's and OT's at work don't get converted to cash and are only usable within the year they were earned. And looking at the unused Leaves I wasted while hustling at work, I couldn't help but wish I'd spent them even for just a coffee-and-books date with myself.

6. Your mood and happiness depend on you. This may be one of the cliches that I've proven to be true. Your state of mind can greatly affect your mood that in turn affects the people around you. Do you notice yourself sulking too much or maybe being mataray to a lot of people at work or school? You may need to do some Me Time and ponder on why you are being like this. Be the ray of positive vibes to others instead of the Grinch no one wants to be around. Whenever I feel lazy or in a bad mood to work, I lock myself in the bathroom or ask for permission to take a nap and ask myself, would I want to interact or work with myself if I was another person?


So there's my list, there's a actually a lot more that can be added by the above are my priority. This list is a personal reflection that I decided to share with the few people who discovered my online diary. It is to let you know that you weren't alone in your struggles and that sometimes, we just need someone who get how we feel. <3

Merci beaucoup! <3

Mrs. Fields Christmas Offers 2015

With the holiday season being promoted hither and thither, one can't help but feel excited that finally, the season we've all been waiting for is here once again! I myself get excited when I see my favorite restos and apparel brands release their holiday specials and I can't wait to complete my budget so I can finally go on a gift-shopping spree!

That said, one of the many brands that recently showcased their holiday food and gift offers is Mrs. Fields. On top of serving the best, melt-in-your-mouth cookies and other baked treats, Mrs. Fields is also a well-known go-to place for sweet gifts, in every sense of the word. The brand's 20 stores around the metro carry various gifts for all types of occasions all year round and  Christmas is no exception. In fact, they take Christmas holidays seriously and make sure that they only have the best offers for this season.

Mrs.  Fields Christmas Collection

Honestly, I've never seen such festivity in one photo and Mrs. Fields definitely packed a lot of good stuff in this one. This is a page from their Christmas catalog. From adorable cookie jars, to nifty gift boxes all containing their special baked treats, you'll definitely find the perfect present for your family and friends!

Other Holiday Offers

Aside from personal gifting, Mrs. Fields is also thinking of our holiday reunions and get-togethers. This page from their holiday catalog contains a great selection of goodies that we can share at parties, events, and even our own Noche Buena! Imagine your Christmas and New Year's eve dinner table laden with sumptuous fresh bakes... total holiday feels. ;D

Now it's easy to plan a budget for every activity the season requires. I love Mrs. Fields' catalog because it contains everything we need from gifts to party needs. The prices are included too so you won't need to google the products and search from a sea of social media posts just to find the what you're looking for.

Here are more photos:

Cookie Jars

Tin Cans

Big Cookie Cake

Mini Cookie Cake

Gift Boxes

Pops in a Jar

Visit them for the complete collection! Also, Mrs. Fields has an exciting holiday activity for everyone. Check out their My Rewards Card and find out how you can celebrate the season in a more meaningful and rewarding way. :)

Happy shopping! :)

REVIEW: Revlon Photoready Perfecting Primer and Eye Primer

I have never been a fan of foundation because it makes me breakout. I only tried about three brands but they all failed me and I'm never trying again. Even BB Cream doesn't work on my skin and I'm pretty much scared to try anything that looks like a foundation, and that includes primer, until I tried Revlon Photoready.

I am currently recovering from a breakout and I'm avoiding all kinds of cream and oil-based products as I'm still undergoing acne treatment. But, I wanted something that will conceal my battle scars while they're healing and I needed something that is light on skin. That's when I came across Revlon Photoready Perfecting Primer while window-shopping at SM Makati with my boss. I was hesitant at first, and a bit of skeptic since all the  previous products I tried really just made my skin worse. But, the Revlon lady... well... convinced me in the end. We tried samples, and since I've also been using Revlon's Eye Primer, I bought it. I've been using it for weeks now and I'm loving the results so far.

My left hand without primer

My right hand with primer

The first time I used it, the texture seemed too thin to hide my scars, but it really helped, not by actually concealing them but by lightening my face,including the scars and fading them so that they're not too obvious and harsh-looking. The best thing about it is that, it has a powdery finish without drying the skin. I apply it right after VMV's Id Gel Treatment (I skip moisturizer). The Perfecting Primer + my mineral powder combo gives my skin a bright, dewy glow without the oil. It doesn't make my skin oily even after the day is done so two thumbs up for this product! You can actually skip powder after the primer if you want to. I just apply it to give my skin an even finish and hide my acne marks.

It comes only in one shade (flesh / light beige tone).

Price: P825
Effectiveness  Rate: 5/5
Top Tip: If you have dry or combination skin, make sure to put on moisturizer before the primer as it tends to feel dry.


Also, I would just like to share, I got myself a Revlon Photoready Eye Primer + Brightener last year when I was starting to learn (eye) makeup, and one of the basics my friend and tutor required of me was a really good eye primer. As reluctant as I was, I followed her instructions telling myself that it's only the eyes, anyway, plus, I really wanted to create the best results for my eyes. A few months after, it became a staple in my everyday routine.

Revlon Photoready Eye Primer + Brightener comes in a retractable pen-type container and is tipped with a brush so you have full control of the application and amount you'll put on. Plus, the brush helps you avoid touching your skin especially since the skin in the eye area is so delicate. The creamy texture brightens your eyes and doubles as a concealer so you can skip that step and go straight to powder. This primer has a matte finish as well so oily girls like me need not worry!

Price: P725
Effectiveness  Rate: 5/5

***
This is a make-up newbie's firsthand encounter so I apologize if it's not too technical or a make-up-ish review. :)

Mrs. Fields My Rewards Card

Christmas is finally here, and it is felt more than ever with the release of the traditional planners from our favorite cafe's and other brands and along with it, the yummy, yummy drinks and treats (Toffee Nut addict here!) we only get to taste every holiday season. This year probably has the most planner offers so far, with brands offering not only schedule planners but also diaries, notebooks, etc. It's always fun to complete the traditional card and get a new planner from an array of fun and sophisticated options. But if you are not really a planner kind of person or if you are on the lookout for something different this year, then you have to try Mrs. Fields' My Rewards Card!

Mrs. Fields' My Rewards Card

Get your first stamp when you get your card!

Mrs. Fields recently launched their Christmas offers (which I will share with you in another post) and their My Rewards Card where instead of a planner, you get free treats when you get stamps on your card. There's a catch though. Each of the 12 circles on the card, corresponds to a milestone that you have to achieve like helping a stranger and making someone smile. You are encouraged to achieve these little goals and reward yourself with your favorite Mrs. Fields products to get a stamp. :)

See the full mechanics here

Get your own My Rewards Card at any Mrs. Fields store with a minimum purchase of P150 and start achieving milestones. Easy Peasy. You're probably thinking "How do I prove that I really achieved a milestone?". No worries because they won't actually look for proof that you indeed watched a new movie or tried a new dish. Just tell them when you purchase your treat.

Though no proof is required, there lies in the milestones the exciting part of this whole program! As much as you can, try to really do them so treating yourself would feel more rewarding :)

Get free Mrs. Fields treats with every 4 milestones you achieve. For your first 4, you can get a dozen  of their Cookie Pops, for your next 4, you can get their Pops-in-a-Jar (also containing Cookie Pops) which is one of their holiday gift offers. And lastly, get a Cookie Pops Pairing for 2 for your last set of 4 milestones! The Cookie Pops are popcorn-size cookies and are actually a newly launched product. More info on Facebook.

Through this program, they are encouraging everyone to live in the moment and celebrate the little things and achievements by treating ourselves. No need to wait for that promotion before you finally decide you deserve a treat.

I myself am a strong believer that happiness need not be expensive. It can be a cookie here or a drink there when you beat a deadline or get commended for your work. And what sweeter way to reward ourselves than with desserts and sweet treats. :)

Scents For Your Every Mood: Moschino Cheap and Chic & Versace Bright Crystal

If you're a perfume-addict like me, you'd know how exciting it is to score great deals on your favorite scents! That's exactly what I got from SM Department Store a few months ago. They have a promo that they do not really publicize where BPI and BDO Credit Card holders can get 3 perfumes for only P5,000 AND have their transaction on a 3-month installment AFTER 3 months. As far as I know, it's for those two major banks, correct me if I'm wrong :) I was so excited because until then, I didn't know such an offer existed. Here are the scents I bought:

I have always lusted after Moschino Cheap and Chic's I Love Love but since my dad would buy me my perfumes abroad (he's a retired seaman), I never bothered to buy myself one... until I discovered this deal. I love it because it has a very light citrus-y floral scent perfect for everyday use.It's sexy, feminine and not overpowering. It's composed of these lovely ingredients: Grapefruit, Lemon, Orange, Red Currant (top notes), Bulrush, Cinnamon Leaves, Lily-of-the-Valley, Tea Rose (heart), and Cedar, Musk, Tanaka Wood (base). It's now my everyday scent. The fragrance stays for hours but I always spritz multiple times day ;)

By the way, if you don't want to splurge on a perfume, Petit Monde has a similar-smelling cologne called For My Dreams. :)

The second perfume I got was also by Moschino Cheap and Chic: Light Clouds. It's just as light and refreshing as I Love Love; muskier yet still feminine. Its main ingredients are peach, cyclamen, lotus, jasmine, rose, ambrette, cedar and musk. This one's a tad too plain for me though, with none of the sexy floral and citrus notes of I  Love Love, so I gave it to my  mom ;) Its smell though, is something that I think teenagers or 'tweeners would love.

Lastly, of all the perfumes I tried on top of the Moschino scents, Versace Bright Crystal won my heart. The sexiness of this scent can't be beat! It exudes femininity, fierceness and independence. Composed of Frosted Accord, Yuzu, Pomegranate (top notes), Peony, Magnolia (heart), Lotus Flower, Acajou, Vegetal Amber and Musk (base), Bright Crystal is the scent to go for when you're in your "Miss Independent" mood. Its sweet, floral scent is dominant but not overpowering as it is neutralized by waterlily and lotus. It is also perfect for after-office parties, get-togethers, and romantic dates! My boyfriend actually loves this scent on me to the point where he notices when I am wearing a different scent. The scent lasts all day long, too. 

There's just something about perfumes that can improve the mood we are in. Whether you're feeling sweet and innocent, fierce and seductive, or sporty and active, you bet it will an extra oomph to your entire vibe. As for these three, Moschino I Love Love is the sweet, carefree girl, Light Clouds is the sporty, active lady, and Bright Crystal is the seductive, independent, Miss Boss woman. My favorite among the three? Versace Bright Crystal. I don't use it often but it's the fragrance most people notice and compliment the most. :)

So the next time, you're out in the mall strolling, think of the top 2 or 3 moods you're usually in and find the scents that will go best with those moods. Perfume shops always offer a spray, or sometimes even a free sample when you're lucky so you can always test and find the best scents for you.

REVIEW: The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil

I have experimented with a good number of brands before realizing that what works best for me are the gentle products. My skin hates and breaks out on products with too much chemicals that promise major results. That being said, one of my go-to places when I want to update my pampering and beauty regimen is The Body Shop. My usual purchase are their bath products which smell sooo good! I also get them to give as presents.

But just recently, I read up some good stuff about tea tree oil and its effects on skin and because I was having a little break out at that time I decided to get one. I already knew The Body Shop has it, so I went straight to the branch in SM Makati to buy one.

A few technical details: Tea Tree Oil is  extracted from the Tea Tree (apparently :P) which is different from  the tea plant used for making teas. It can be used for various purposes such as treatment for skin infections like acne and fungal infections, and may also be used to treat vaginal infections, sore throat, and toothache among others.

You have to be careful though when using it as it can have some side effects like drying, itching or even worsening of acne when you use it as treatment. Pure tea tree oil is strong so you have to either mix  it with other oils like lavender oil or water or use very little amount on just the affected areas of your face.

Luckily, The Body Shop's tea tree oil is a ready formulation. A 10 ml bottle is a mixture of 15% tea tree oil and the following: Aqua (Solvent/Diluent), Alcohol Denat. (Solvent/Diluent), PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil (Emulsifier), Polysorbate 20 (Emulsifier), Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Natural Additive), Limonene (Natural Additive), t-Butyl Alcohol (Denaturant), Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil (Skin Conditioning Agent), Citral (Natural Additive), Leptospermum Petersonii Oil (Natural Additive), Denatonium Benzoate (Denaturant), Tocopherol (Antioxidant). Click here for more details.

For the skin, it can be used as a toner or moisturizer, preferably morning and night. You can also use it as a steam regimen. Just put 3-4 drops on a bowl of hot water and steam away.

As for me, I used it as a moisturizer, applied with a cotton pad every night. At first it felt oily specially on my already oily skin and I was afraid that it would worsen the few pimples I was trying to cure. Since this is a natural cure, it takes longer for the effect to be seen and felt than other products.

After about 4 weeks of use, my skin became smoother and softer especially after applying my powder foundation. The few fine lines I have under my eyes also disappeared. Sadly, it did not work on my pimples. They looked just the same as before and some new additions even popped up. I would have stuck  to it if I was not breaking out but I needed an alternative that is not of oil which is already abundant on my face.

I used my tea tree oil instead as moisturizer for my whole body which also worked fine. I mix  it my lotion giving my skin a really nice minty lavender scent. I would probably go back to it once my face cleared up. :)