Skincare & Beauty Product Junkie

Hello! Thank you for visiting my blog. My name is Ceci and I am a major beauty and skincare product junkie from the San Francisco Bay Area. Please email me at: [email protected] -Thank you!

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My Favorite Korean Face Masks at The Moment

My friend came back from Korea last month and helped me bring back tons of face masks. I purchased two different versions from Nature Republic- the Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Collagen Solution Hydrogel Mask and Ginseng Royal Silk Gold Hydrogel Mask. I also purchased one whitening mask from Holika Holika called Prime Youth EGF Mask Sheet. 

I love hydrogel masks as they stay put on my face even when I am walking around the house. Hydrogel masks help my skin deeply absorb the serum. Though sometimes hydrogel masks might be more expensive than regular cloth masks, it is worth every penny.

I love all three masks as they all have their own specialties. 

The Hyaluronic Acid mask is extremely hydrating. I just recovered from a sunburn and this mask helped soothe and hydrate my skin. My skin was peeling extremely and even after exfoliation, I was afraid to step out of the house and be seen. This mask helped hydrate my extremely dry skin without further irritation. I purchased this for around $5USD per sheet.

The Ginseng Royal Silk Gold Mask is the more expensive of the three. It helps whiten and soothe my fine lines. This mask is extremely moisturizing and my face feels brighter and more clear after usage. I purchased this for around $6.4USD per sheet.

The Prime Youth EGF Mask Sheet from Holika Holika contains whitening properties that helps with anti-aging and whitening. The Holika Holika mask has more serum than the two Nature Republic masks. I always apply the extra serum on my neck. I hate wasting extra serum. My face looks instantly brighter and whiter after using this mask.

Each hydrogel sheet mask  is protected by plastic and film to keep the hydrogel mask in place within the packaging. The serum is also concentrated on the hydrogel mask itself. 

If you have followed my blog since 2011,you should know that I am totally obsessed with face masks and  have tried all kinds. I totally recommend Hydrogel masks!

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* TATCHA * LUMINOUS DEEP HYDRATION FIRMING EYE SERUM and OVERNIGHT MEMORY SERUM CONCENTRATE

Received a lovely care package from TATCHA. The package included TATCHA’s newest products - their Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum and Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate.

I absolutely love both products! The eye serum is easy to use, The tip of the applicator is cooling and helps to depuff my puffy eye bags. I’ve noticed a more brightened eye area after only a week of usage. The applicator tip is an awesome tool for massaging my eye area to prevent wrinkles. It is easy to control the amount of serum being squirted out. This product is a must try. I also like to store it in my fridge for an extra cooling effect when I use!

The Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate is an amazing product! It has a panna cotta consistency and comes with a small gold spoon for you to scoop the product out. Only a tiny scoop is needed to cover your entire face. Therefore, this product would last a good while. After each scoop, the product settles into a smooth surface again, just like it was never used before. The serum is extremely silky and absorbs instantly into skin. I’ve been using it every night and it feels like I have applied a facial mask to my face! Absolutely amazing!

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TATCHA Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35

Recently, I got my hands on TATCHA’s newest product, their long-awaited Silken pore perfecting sunscreen broad spectrum SPF35! This sunscreen is based upon a geisha’s iconic white makeup, oshiroi, which provides amazing sun protection. Geishas pair oshiroi with bintsuke-abura, a thin wax to create a poreless finish and protect skin from sun damage. 

If you haven’t noticed already, geishas have amazing skin under their makeup. Most geisha’s skin looks like its never touched the sun! Thanks to TATCHA’s pore perfecting sunscreen, we can now all shield our skin from the sun just like the way geishas have been doing for the past several hundred years. 

The Silken pore perfecting sunscreen broad spectrum offers extremely weightless sun protection. This sunscreen works wonders under makeup, and does not leave a nasty white cast. In fact, it acts as a primer to prep skin for makeup. Blended with Japanese Wild Rose, Licorice, Silk and Loquat Leaf extracts, along with TATCHA’s proprietary HADASEI-3 Bioactive Complex, this sunscreen will soothe and protect skin. 

I have started using this sunscreen for the past week, and even dabbed some on my little toddler when I forgot to bring his California Baby sunscreen. If you’ve read my previous posts, I am a super loyal sunscreen user. I have been using sunscreen since I was 16. My skin is not perfect, but I feel great about protecting it on a daily basis. I load up my skin with an antioxidant serum in the mornings, and then apply a thick layer of sunscreen. Though I work in an office all day long, my commute will expose my skin to harmful UV rays, even in cloudy San Francisco. 

Again, TATCHA created another wonderful product. I love how TATCHA works with non-profits to provide one day of school for a girl in a developing country with every purchase made. This is an amazing feat for a small company. 

Your heart and skin will feel good when you purchase and use TATCHA products. 

“SILKEN PORE PERFECTING SUNSCREEN BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 3560mL / 2 fl. oz.    

What it is: Inspired by the geisha's iconic makeup, we created this invisible, lightweight sunscreen to perfect and protect skin, making it an elegant, everyday essential.

Why it’s different: Provides broad spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Non-greasy formula tightens pores, perfect as a primer for makeup.

Who it’s for: All skin-types. Non-comedogenic. Does not contain mineral oil, aminobenzoic acid, homosalate, oxybenzone or octinoxate.

Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 15%, Octisalate 5%

Inactive Ingredients: Water, Isododecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Propanediol, Hdi/trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Behenyl Alcohol, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Rosa Multiflora Fruit Extract, Eriobotrya Japonica Leaf Extract, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate (Licorice Extract), Glycyrrhiza Inflata (Licorice) Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum, Sericin (Silk Extract), Algae Extract, Lecithin, Inositol (Rice Extract), Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Sorbitan Tristearate, Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine, Silica, Potassium Sorbate, Beheneth-20, Sodium Acrylate/Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Dimethylacrylamide Crosspolymer, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Titanium Dioxide, Methicone, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Dimethiconol, Disodium Edta, Iron Oxides (Ci77491), Tin Oxide, Mica, Fragrance (Natural), Ethylhexylglycerin, Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol.

Formulated without: Mineral Oil, Synthetic Colors, Synthetic Fragrances, Sulfate Detergents, Parabens, PEGs, PPGs, Urea, DEA, TEA or Phthalates.

Use liberally after moisturizer to lock in hydration, at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. If wearing makeup, use before applying cosmetics. Works as a primer that refines and minimizes the appearance of pores. “

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TATCHA INDIGO Soothing Triple Recovery Cream

Two weeks ago, I had the luxury of trying TATCHA’s INDIGO Soothing Triple Recovery Cream.

The soothing triple recovery cream is an anti-aging moisturizer for sensitive and irritated skin. It’s indigo hue comes from a special Japanese Indigo grower’s plants. This cream is coupled with Colloidal Oatmeal and Sophora Japonica extract, ingredients that help reduce the appearance of inflammation and relieve itchy sensitive skin. 

This cream is excellent for rashes, eczema or psoriasis skin. Recently, I started getting chronic hives all over my body, even on my face. My hives would appear out of nowhere and many ingredients would irritate my skin. My skin became super sensitive! This cream actually works well for me! The colloidal oatmeal acts as a skin protectant to soothe my sensitive skin, even when I have a hives outbreak!

This cream has a light blue hue that disappears upon absorption. 

I find TATCHA products’ packaging extremely attractive. They would make great gifts! I will probably purchase some products as birthday gifts for my friends’ upcoming birthdays.

It is hard to find a cream for sensitive skin with anti-aging benefits. I love how this cream soothes my irritated skin and also provides my skin with full anti-aging properties. 

This cream will be available for sale in July 2015 at TATCHA’s online store and at Barney’s New York stores.

Product Info from TATCHA:

“INDIGO SOOTHING TRIPLE RECOVERY CREAM

50mL / 1.7 fl. oz.

BENEFITS

INGREDIENTS

HOW TO USE

What it is:

Formulated for sensitive skin, this anti-aging moisturizer is rich in Indigo extract, Colloidal Oatmeal and Sophora Japonica extract, which calm, comfort, and restore skin's natural resiliency.

Why it’s different: Our soothing blend of botanicals calms sensitive, easily irritated skin and reverses the signs of premature aging. Formulated with 3% Colloidal Oatmeal (the highest percentage available in a product of this kind on the market), skin is left comforted, supple and replenished.

Who it’s for: For all skin types, especially sensitive skin showing signs of rosacea, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis or allergies. Non-comedogenic.

Active Ingredient: Colloidal Oatmeal 3%

Inactive Ingredients: Water, Squalane (Olive origin), Glycerin, Propanediol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Diisostearyl Malate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax, Xylitol, Behenyl Alcohol, Polygonum Tinctorium (Japanese Indigo) Leaf/stem Extract, Indigofera Tinctoria Leaf Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat Kernel) Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Sophora Japonica Flower Extract, Prunus Lannesiana Flower Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil, Inositol (Rice Extract), Sericin (Silk Extract), Tetrasodium Tetracarboxymethyl Naringeninchalcone, Chondrus Crispus (Red Algae) Extract, Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dextrin, Sorbitan Tristearate, Trihydroxystearin, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Beheneth­‐20, Bis-­Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-­2, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine, Disodium Edta, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Sodium Acrylate/acryloyldimethyltaurate/dimethylacrylamide Crosspolymer, Titanium Dioxide, Calcium Carbonate, Tin Oxide, Phenoxyethanol, Mica.

Formulated without: Mineral Oil, Synthetic Colors, Synthetic Fragrances, Sulfate Detergents, Parabens, PEGs, PPGs, Urea, DEA, TEA or Phthalates.

Directions: Use after cleansing or exfoliating. Can be used alone or over a serum. Perfect for use in the morning and evening on the face, neck, and décolletage. “

Images from TATCHA:

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TATCHA Event in San Francisco

I was extremely thrilled to meet Victoria Tsai earlier tonight at TATCHA’s event at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. She is such an inspiration to all young women. I loved listening to her talk about her philosophy of beauty and about how she started TATCHA. She is an amazing woman and entrepreneur.

TATCHA is an innovative brand with a wonderful focus on Geisha’s beauty rituals. TATCHA products feature effective ingredients that have been used by Geishas for hundreds of years. 

I’ve reviewed various TATCHA products in the past. Some of my favorites are their world-famous blotting papers, Deep Hydration Firming Serum, and Deep Hydration Firming Mask. Please view my older posts featuring TATCHA products here, here , here, here and here.

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Shield Your Skin From the Sun with La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Sunscreen

I have been using a tube of Neutrogena Baby Sunscreen SPF 60 on a daily basis after my showers at the gym. I started getting cystic acne and clogged pores. My skin was in a bad condition and nothing else in my skincare has changed besides my sunscreen. I was amazed at how many chemicals that were in the sunscreen, and it was a sunscreen meant for babies. Luckily, I used the sunscreen instead of my infant son.

I was browsing at my local Target and a fellow shopper recommended the La Roche-Posay Broad Spectrum SPF50. Though the ingredient list was long, I tried on the sunscreen in-store and was amazed at how quickly it absorbed into my skin! It left minimal to no-white cast! Amazing! I always end up looking like a pale white ghost after using many different kinds of mineral sunscreens.

I’ve been working in Silicon Valley/San Jose area and the sun is shining bright most of the time. I haven’t gotten one sunburn from driving in traffic thanks to this lightweight sunscreen. I can also pack on my BB cream on top of this sunscreen without looking like  I caked my face. 

The SPF 50 in this sunscreen is more than enough for my daily needs. I love how it only has mineral sunscreen ingredients, as my skin is sensitive to chemical sunscreens. The French really do make amazing skincare products!

Applied onto skin:

My sunscreens in rotation after my breakout from Neutrogena Baby Sunscreen:

Which sunscreens are you using now?

“Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra-light Sunscreen Fluid is designed for sensitive skin and is formulated with Cell-Ox Shield™ technology, an exclusive combination of: Physical sun filters at different particle sizes for improved protection and texture.A powerful Antioxidant complex to help protect skin from free radicals caused by UV rays and that can cause premature skin aging.All Anthelios sunscreen have been formulated for optimal skin tolerance.

DIRECTIONS:

Recommended for sunscreen protection.

Apply generously 15 minutes before sun exposure.

Shake well before use. Suitable to use under make-up.

Reapply after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating. Immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours.

Children under 6 months of age: ask a doctor.

Active Ingredients

Titanium Dioxide 6% (sunscreen) • Zinc Oxide 5% (sunscreen)

Inactive ingredients

Undecane • triethylhexanoin • isohexadecane • nylon-12 • caprylyl methicone • butyloctyl salicylate • phenethyl benzoate • styrene/acrylates copolymer • silica • tridecane • dicaprylyl carbonate • dicaprylyl ether • talc • dimethicone/PEG-10/15 crosspolymer • aluminum stearate • pentylene glycol • PEG-9 olydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone • alumina • polyhydroxystearic acid • phenoxyethanol • magnesium sulfate • propylene glycol • caprylyl glycol • PEG-8 laurate • disteardimonium hectorite • triethoxycaprylylsilane • diethylhexyl syringylidenemalonate • tocopherol • propylene carbonate • cassia alata leaf extract • maltodextrin • benzoic acid • PEG-9″

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TATA HARPER RESURFACING MASK for instant glow

TATA HARPER is my other favorite brand besides Sunday Riley.

Tata Harper products are 100% natural and non-toxic. The fragrance in the products comes from flowers and not chemicals. Tata Harper products are made in Vermont and her products are spa-like and absolutely luxurious. I purchase my Tata Harper products from SpaceNK. Tata Harper products are one of the most advanced natural skincare lines available. 

The founder of the brand, Tata Harper is from Columbia and she grew up with luxurious products but it wasn’t until her stepfather was diagnosed with cancer and she became more aware of what she applied on her skin. She noticed that a lot of skincare products had carcinogenic ingredients. Tata Harper has an engineering background before she ventured into skincare.

The product that I am introducing today is The Resurfacing Mask for instant glow, an award-winning beta-hydroxy treatment that works just like a traditional face peel. This mask gets rid of dull skin without any downtime or red irritation to the skin. The results are an absolutely brightened complexion, soft and smooth skin, and a glow of radiance. The mask decongests clogged pores and debris in a gentle way.

I cleanse my skin as usual and then apply a thick generous layer and leave on my skin for thirty minutes. Then I remove with a muslin cloth and warm water after thirty minutes.

Result: A wonderful glow!

1oz/$55USD

No animal testing and Cruelty-Free.

“This award-winning beta-hydroxy treatment works like a traditional peel to provide an instant solution for dull skin – without causing downtime or irritation. Delivers instant glow, minimizes the appearance of pores and improves texture for smooth, glowing skin. Formulated to deeply purify and help decongest surface debris and dead skin for a refreshed, instantly revitalized appearance.

Pomegranate Enzymes provide deep cleansing and pore minimization

French Pink Clay reduces the appearance of pores and helps detoxify skin

White Willow eliminates dead skin cells and promotes cellular renewal

Skin type: All, except hypersensitive

Aloe barbadensis leaf juice*, Salix alba (Willow) bark extract*, Sclerotium gum, Lactobacillus Ferment, Lactobacillus/Punica granatum fruit ferment extract, Leuconostoc ferment filtrate (radish root extract), Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel) Distillate, Maltooligosyl Glucoside, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Beta vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Kaolin (Rose Clay), Sodium phytate, Aroma**, Citral, Citronellol, Limonene, Linalool, Benzyl Alcohol, Geraniol

*Ingredients from organic farming

** Clinical grade essential oils blend”

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Hada Labo Retinol Lifting + Firming Mask

When I don’t feel like splurging on my holy grail SK-II Facial Treatment Masks, I purchase masks from Hada Labo! I’ve reviewed Hada Labo products when I first started my blog. I love Hada Labo products because they are alcohol free, mineral free, fragrance-free, and colorant free! Basically, products from this brand works wonders for my super sensitive skin!

As a drugstore brand, Hada Labo products deliver extremely good results for my skin. The products give my skin a boing boing feeling! You know, when you press and bounce your fingers on your skin, your skin will bounce back because it is so hydrated!

I purchased this box of 4 masks for less than $15USD. To me, that is a steal! If you don’t want to spend too much on sheet masks, but want to pamper and hydrate your skin, then Hada Labo masks would fit the bill!

This Retinol Lifting + Firming masks contains wrinkle-fighting retinol for anti-aging effects, and Hada Labo’s trademark Super Hyaluronic Acid for locking in the moisture in skin for extended hydration. This mask also contains Collagen to maintain skin’s elasticity. 

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My favorite Laneige Products

I’ve written about the Laneige Peeling Gel in the past.

I always repurchase Laniege products because of its low price and effectiveness. The Multiberry Yogurt Peeling Gel is awesome! I love using the peeling gel prior to applying the Multiberry Yogurt Pack. The Multiberry Yogurt Pack is from the same line as the Peeling Gel. I usually leave the mask pack on my face for about half an hour. I make sure to use an extremely thick layer. My skin absorbs the yogurt pack and my skin becomes extremely soft and moisturized. 

Laneige products can be found at your local Target!

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Borghese Fango Active Mud for Face and Body

I stopped going to estheticians for facials about a year ago. My skin has actually never been better! I love doing my own facials and treatments at home. Borghese Fango Active Mud is the best for a refreshing and exfoliating mud facial. Not only can this mud be used on the face, but it can also be used on the body as a body treatment!

I love Borghese Fango Active Mud! I always keep a jar of this in my house. I love how this mud treatment exfoliates and cleans my skin. My skin is extremely sensitive and I do have to admit that this mud burns a bit. But I find this original version to work the best. 

This mud treatment draws out all the impurities from my skin. My skin feels extra refreshed after usage. Prior to using this treatment, I wash and exfoliate my skin, then I dry my face and apply a thick layer of mud. I typically leave this on for about 5-10 minutes and remove with a muslin cloth and warm water before it totally dries.

Note: Do not wait until the mud is fully dried because it will also dry out your skin. Remove the mud gently with warm water while the mud is still wet. Therefore, do not leave the mud on for too long.

“Product Description

Our signature and classic Fango Active is a one-and-only, must-have, mineral-rich mud. It's a sensational step beyond everyday clean. Derived from traditional Tuscan treatments, its deep-down purifying power purges and minimizes pores. It exfoliates and helps surface cell turnover, imparting clarity. It hydrates and firms reducing fine lines and providing smooth, toned texture. Infused with Sweet Almond and Avocado Oils, this mud detoxifies and does away with dull skin, leaving skin radiant and refreshed. “

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SUNDAY RILEY GOOD GENES TREATMENT

Info from Sunday Riley:

"A brightening, multitasking, radiance treatment and mask.

Everyone wants the unmistakable look of having “good genes”. This amazing treatment is formulated with key ingredients which will plump fine lines, reveal brighter, newer skin, and improve circulation for a smooth, vibrant complexion. Long term use will help restore damaged skin, reduce hyperpigmentation and scars, reduce the depth and number of line and wrinkles, even out skin tone, and increase epidermal thickness and firmness.

30 mL 1 fl oz

INGREDIENTS

40 % LACTIC ACID

LEMONGRASS

LICORICE

ARNICA

YEAST

Plumps lines, exfoliates and refines skin, decreases wrinkle depth over time.

Boosts circulation, which brings oxygen to the skin, increases vibrance and radiance.

Natural skin brightener. Anti-inflammatory.

Boosts circulation, skin soothing. Helps counteract sting of lactic acid.

Helps heal the skin, create stronger, healthier tissue."

Recently, I have heard such amazing things about the Good Genes Treatment from Sunday Riley. The media endorses this product and celebs swear by this as well. This treatment costs $105USD for 1 oz. Of course, it isn't cheap, but it is made of simple but effective ingredients. If you could only purchase ONE treatment, and I mean only ONE and no other, then you should put your money down for this treatment. Instead of buying several products that do not work or are just okay, it is better to buy one or two products that do work.

Good Genes Treatment is everything in one! Simple as that! It is a strong brightening and radiance treatment serum and mask in one bottle! This treatment is full of simple yet potent ingredients. Lactic acid plums and soften lines while lemon grass and arnica boosts circulation. (Arnica has been used in Chinese herbal medicines for many years and is known for aiding blood circulation.) Licorice brightens skin while yeast helps skin heal.

I've been using this treatment for only one week, but my skin is brighter and my spots do not seem as dark. With continued use, I hope my skin will become more radiant as time passes by.

I stocked up on two bottles and a small sample! Let's see how long my stock will last me! 

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REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask

REN Glyco Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask is still one of my favorite masks. I might have mentioned or posted about this in the past. I always tend to come back to this mask when I want to clear my complexion or when I need an extra boost to help fade some spots. 

This mask gets rid of it all! Over time and with each use, my skin improves. My pores are degunked. My blackheads are easier to remove. My overall complexion is brighter. 

This mask comes with a muslin cloth for easy removal of the product. I leave a generous layer of this mask on my face for about 10-15 minutes. My skin is very sensitive, so I do feel the tingly sensation while this mask is applied on my skin. After leaving this mask on, I wet the muslim cloth with warm water and use that to remove the mask. This mask does not tend to dry up so it does not leave my skin taunt before removal.

More info from REN:

"A potent bio active peel mask designed to renew the complexion, reduce the appearance of fine lines and dramatically improve skin tone. Results:Removes dead skin cells to renew the complexion.Skin looks brighter, healthier, more radiant.Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.Combats congestion, blackheads and blemishes.How to use: Apply a generous amount onto clean skin over the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Leave for 10 minutes. Dampen enclosed cloth and gently wipe off mask. Rinse skin with warm water. Slight tingling may be experienced during application. Use weekly. Not recommended for sensitive skin or for use just after shaving. 

Ingredients:

Aqua (Water), Polysorbate 60, Glycerin, Lecithin, Lactic Acid, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Xanthan Gum, Maltodextrin, Sodium Lactate, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Passiflora Quadrangularis Fruit Extract, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Alcohol Denat., Limonene, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum* (Fragrance), Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extact, Tocopherol, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Linalool, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Citral, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Oil, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Bisulfite *100% Natural Fragrance – Parfum 100% Naturel "

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TATCHA LUMINOUS DEEP HYDRATION FIRMING SERUM

I have been using TATCHA LUMINOUS Deep Hydration Firming Serum for the past two weeks. This serum is perfect for my skin during this cold winter weather because my skin needs extra hydration and extra care.

I get runny noses easily, and I go through boxes of tissue during winter time. The skin around my nose gets dry and flaky, and it gets pretty bad. The skin around my nose gets so flaky that I sometimes feel embarrassed! My makeup also cakes and shows around my nose area. Much more than any other part of my face, the skin around my nose area is always in need of hydration during winter. 

I love how this serum helps hydrate and firm up my skin because it contains a special blend of Okinawa Red Algae and Hyaluronic Acid. Hyaluronic Acid works wonders in terms of hydration for skin! Red Algae has anti-aging benefits for skin.

Since I started using this serum two weeks ago during both my morning and night routine, I did not experience any dry flaky skin around my nose. I love to apply a generous amount of this serum prior to doing my night-time facial massage. 

Massage is extremely beneficial for our skin. Pick a good serum to apply on your skin and do a quick and gentle massage prior to applying your night treatment. Over time, you will see benefits. 

An added bonus of this serum is that it also contains Gold! Talk about luxury! I love pampering my skin with this serum!

Info on this serum from TATCHA:

WHAT IT IS A firming serum featuring a deeply hydrating blend of Okinawa red algae and hyaluronic acid to nourish skin in need of bounceback. 

WHY IT’S DIFFERENT 23-karat gold lends skin a lit-from-within look, without adding shimmer to the face. 

WHO IT’S FOR All skin types. Non-irritating. Non-sensitizing. Dermatologist tested.

INGREDIENTS

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Alcohol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Polyglyceryl-10 Eicosanedioate/Tetradecanedioate, Carrageenan (Algae Extract), Fragrance (All Natural), Inositol (Rice Extract), Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Titanium Dioxide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sericin (Silk Extract), Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate (Licorice Extract), Silica, Hydrogenated Lecithin (Soy Origin), Squalane (Olive Origin), Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine, Camellia Sinensis Leaf (Green Tea) Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Algae Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Gold, Sodium Bicarbonate, Xanthan Gum Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Butelyne Glycol, HDI/Trimethylol, Hexyllactone Crosspolymere, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite.

FORMULATED WITHOUT Parabens, mineral oils, synthetic fragrances, sulfate detergents, urea, DEA, TEA or phthalates.

USAGE INSTRUCTIONS

After cleansing and polishing, massage 1 pump gently in circular motions. Allow serum to absorb fully and finish as needed with a moisturizer or SPF. Use morning and night to enjoy firming benefits and luminous, deeply hydrated skin.

You still have time to enter our TATCHA giveaway! Today is the last day!

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Merry Christmas to my lovely readers! Thank you for your continued support. May your holiday season be filled with joy and laughter. Hope you all will have an amazing new year.

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TATCHA LUMINOUS DEEP HYDRATION REVITALIZING EYE MASK

Next up my my reviews on TATCHA products is the Luminous Deep Hydration Revitalizing Eye Mask. 

I am a long-time sufferer of Occasional Insomnia. Basically, I am a semi-insomniac. Though I do not have regular sleep, I try my best to keep my eyes, skin, and health well by eating fruits and vegetables, drinking healthy drinks and teas, and doing yoga.

Sometimes my eyes still need a pick-me-up. I've been using Shiseido's Benefiance Eye Masks in most instances. I am surprised that TATCHA's eye mask is equally as refreshing to use, and also makes my eye area a lot brighter. 

Since, I only received one set from TATCHA, I've only tried this product once. I hope to get an entire box of 10! This mask is just simply amazing. This mask has the same scent and feel as their Deep Hydration Lifting Mask for the face. Please find my previous review here. 

I actually placed this set of eye mask in the fridge for about an hour prior to application. I left it on my eyes for about 20 minutes. The texture of this mask is gel. There are protective sleeves on both sides of each piece of eye mask. I actually used the protective sheet on my face, and I also applied the leftover serum from the packet to my face as well. I love how that this gel mask is soaked in serum, and there is enough serum to cover your face and neck! I never like to waste the precious serum in mask packets. 

Overall, this eye mask is extremely gentle on my skin. I love how my the skin around my eyes feels extra refreshed and lifted after usage.

I just wish that this mask wasn't $12 a pop. I just have to purchase the box of ten for $95. :)

This mask is packed with awesome, top-notch ingredients such as Peony Extract! As always, TATCHA products deliver great results!

Info from TATCHA:

WHAT IT IS This mask combines our proprietary Okinawa Red Algae blend with nourishing Peony Extract for luminous, purified skin in minutes.

WHY IT’S DIFFERENT The unique coconut-derived biocellulose mask, developed originally to speed healing for burn victims, forms an occlusive layer on the skin. This enables the powerful actives to help promote the appearance of hydrated, revitalized-looking eyes.

WHO IT’S FOR All skin types. Non-irritating. Non-sensitizing. Dermatologist tested.

Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Chondrus Crisrus(Red Algae) Extract, Methyl Gluceth-20, Camellia Sinensis(Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Algae Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Sericin(Silk Extract), Inositol(Rice Extract), Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma Yuen Seed Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Leaf Extract,Paeonia Albiflora Root(Peony) Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate(Licorice Extract), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Squalane(Olive Origin), Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate(Licorice), Hydrogenated Lecithin(Soy Origin), Carrageenan, Ppg-6-Decyltetradeceth-30,,  Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Polyglyceryl-10 Eicosanedioate/Tetradecanedioate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance(Natural), Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol.

FORMULATED WITHOUT Parabens, mineral oils, synthetic fragrances, sulfate detergents, urea, DEA, TEA or phthalates.

Instructions for Usage:

Begin with clean, dry skin. Unfold the mask and peel away one layer of paper backing. Place the mask gel-side down on the skin and adjust to fit comfortably around the eyes. Peel away the remaining layer of paper and smooth the mask to the skin. Leave on for 15 minutes, enjoying the cooling and gentle tingling sensation of hydration. Remove mask and massage the remaining serum into the skin - do not rinse. Seal in long-lasting moisture with Tatcha's Ageless Revitalizing Eye Cream.

Use Promo code: INDIGOMINIS for a complimentary travel size duo of INDIGO Soothing Silk Hand Cream and INDIGO Soothing Silk Body Butter with your purchase of $75 or more.

[skincareobsession]

TATCHA INDIGO SOOTHING SILK HAND CREAM & GIVEAWAY!

Dear Lovely Readers,

It's almost Christmas, and I've partnered up with TATCHA to do a giveaway for my readers!

As you may recall, TATCHA is a luxury skincare line influenced by the beauty secrets of geishas, and its products are made in Japan. I've reviewed various products from TATCHA throughout the past two years. Love partnering with TATCHA because they are based in San Francisco and I am also from the Bay Area! Their products are available for purchase on their website and is also sold at Barneys New York stores, and other retailers. Please find my previous reviews here and here.

Each product packaging is also amazing! Each product comes in a beautiful box-like package which you can pull out, along with a personal note from the founder, Victoria Tsai. TATCHA products make excellent gifts for your loved ones! This is the lovely package that I received from TATCHA:

I will be reviewing other TATCHA products shortly.

Today, I want to introduce the Indigo Soothing Silk Hand Cream. Since it is winter, our hands need special care and attention. Many people think that they shouldn't spend too much on hand care products because it is just our hands. 

Well, that is absolutely wrong thinking! Our hands are so precious to us. They aid us in our daily lives. They allow us to brush our teeth, drive, type, text message, shower, etc... I think you get the point. 

Through handshakes, our hands are usually the first body part that touches new friends, colleagues, coworkers, peers, and clients. People also notice our AGE through our hands. A woman can take extremely great care of her face. However, people can easily notice our age through our neck/collarbone area and our hands. If we are taking such great care of our face, why not pamper our hands too? 

TATCHA's INDIGO Soothing Silk Hand Cream is extremely luxurious and pampering for the skin on our hands. My favorite hand treatments were from Soap & Glory and Estee Lauder. I also love all hand creams from L'Occitane!

However, after trying this hand cream from TATCHA, I am hooked! I've applied it several times today, and my hands are soft as butter. I am also addicted to washing my hands, as I am a major Germiphobe. Especially with an infant, I find myself washing my hands over twenty times a day.

I hate hand creams that leave a greasy feel after application. I can assure you that this hand cream does not leave any residue, because my skin drinks it up like water! This cream absorbs quickly into my skin. 

I love how this hand cream contains Squalene, an important and prized ingredient in Japanese skincare. Squalene is a natural emollient that keeps skin moisturized and supple. This ingredient is exactly what my hands need!

This cream is also interesting because it contains Indigo. The cream leaves a light blue hue that disappears after application.

A 2oz tube costs $38, and the .34oz travel size costs $8. TATCHA offers free US shipping with any order, along with 3 complimentary samples! 

Info from TATCHA:

INDIGO

SOOTHING SILK HAND CREAM

60mL / 2 fl. oz.

What it is: Rich in anti-inflammatory Indigo, liquid Silk and Squalane, TATCHA's INDIGO Soothing Silk Hand Moisturizer Cream softens and soothes irritated skin.

Why it’s different: The stems, leaves and petals of the Indigo plant are steeped in water and fermented to make a concentrated botanical extract. Tryptanthrin and indirubin actives help reduce irritation and promote skin's natural healing abilities. The natural blue hue disappears upon application. Due to the natural botanical extract, the shade of Indigo may vary; the efficacy of the formulation remains the same.

Who it's for: Any skin type, especially sensitive, inflamed or irritated skin consistent with symptoms of dermatitis, eczema and rosacea.

Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin, Petrolatum, Cyclopentasiloxane, Propanediol, Xylitol, Behenyl Alcohol, Diisostearyl Malate, Myristyl Myristate, Squalane (Olive Origin), Microcrystalline Wax, Fragrance (Natural), Sodium Acrylate/Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Dimethylacrylamide Crosspolymer, Sorbitan Tristearate, Beheneth-20, Ethylhexylglycerin, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil, Inositol (Rice Extract), Calcium Carbonate,  Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Disodium Edta, Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine,Sericin (Silk Extract), Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate (Licorice Extract), Hydrogenated Lecithin (Soy Origin), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Alchohol, Polygonum Tinctorium (Japanese Indigo Extract) Leaf/ Stem Extract,Algae Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, and Phenoxyethanol.

Instructions for Use:

Massage as needed onto clean, dry hands for long-lasting hydration. Absorbs effortlessly, leaving skin soothed and silken. Indigo imparts a sky-blue hue to the cream, which will become invisible upon application.

To enter in our Christmas giveaway, simply follow the instructions below:

You can enter starting from now until 11:59PM Pacific Time on Wednesday, December 31, 2014. Giveaway is open to residents of the United States only.

To enter:

1. Like this post.

2. Reblog this post. 

3. Follow my blog! 

4. Send me an email with your name, Tumblr User ID to skincareobsession (at) gmail (dot) com.

The winner will be contacted by email on January 1, 2015. The prize will be shipped by TATCHA.

Good luck! Merry Christmas!

[skincareobsession]

Dolce & Gabbana Aurealux Radiance Moisturiser Cream

I had a small jar of Dolce & Gabbana's Aurealux Radiance Moisturiser Cream lying around and thought that I would give it a try.

I've been using this cream for the past week. Though it did not do magical wonders or spectacular things for my skin, it did keep my skin fully moisturized and well hydrated. Plus, my skin did look extra radiant while on this cream. My makeup glided on easier because of my natural glow.

This cream is supposed to help even out skin tone. I have not used it long enough to see such results. It is recommended to use this cream for at least 4 weeks to see full results.

I love how that a little goes a long way with this cream. It has a thick yet light texture which is hard to describe. It is thick in which my skin feels protected from dryness and that it is light in which this cream absorbed into my skin almost instantly. I would say that this cream is similar to a gel-cream.

The name and brand of this cream sounds luxurious on its own. I like how fashion houses are coming out with makeup and skincare. I have to say that, you do get what you pay for. I've purchased skincare from Chanel, YSL, and others and was never disappointed. 

For best results, I massage my face according to the instruction leaflet that came with the cream. I think massage helps reduce water retention in my face, and helps shape and slim my jawline and chin. You don't need to do a massage only for expensive creams and products, you can massage your face with your regular skincare routine at night and see your skin glow the next day! 

In summary, this cream is a great luxurious treat! An added bonus of this cream is that it is made in Japan! We all know that Japanese skincare products do not disappoint. :)

This cream retails for $129USD for a 1.6 oz jar, which is on par with other similar brands and products.

Took this picture prior to use. This cream almost looks like a gel-cream.

BENEFIT

The first Skincare treatment proven to capture and hold attention, by improving the three dimensions of captivating beauty: radiantly even tone, smooth texture and sensually contoured shape.

FORMULA

The Aurealux Cream is infused with the exclusive Gold Flavo-Silk Tricomplex™, with gold silk sericin, italian olive oil extrat and vitamin B3, a unique trio of ingrediants designed to perfect complexion, infuse skin with moisture and strengthen skin’s easticity feel.

 Suitable for all skin types (normal, dry, sensitive, combination/oily.

INSTRUCTIONS

With the spatula, apply a small amount of Aurealux Cream into the palm, warm, and smooth on the entire face and neck. Gently tap the skin with fingertips to aid absorption.

Use daily, morning and evening after the Dolce&Gabbana Aurealux Serum. Follow with your preferred Dolce&Gabbana Foundation.

 For night time application, press a generous amount onto face, neck and upper chest.