Tried and Tested: Rexona Clinical Protection vs. Christmas Shopping at Tiendesitas

Recently, I was sent this challenge by Rexona where I can only use the deodorant before going to bed and never apply it in the morning. Even after my morning shower.

I am a sucker for these things so I obliged and met them for a shopping spree at Tiendesitas - one of the most humid places in Manila. I seldom go there myself.



Shopping started at 7PM and my deodorant (Rexona Clinical Protection for Women) will almost reach its 24 hour deadline. Actually, I've been to another humid venue earlier in the morning and I was sweating like hell.

No putok or jabar.I could still smell the feminine fragrance of Rexona.

At Tiendesitas, I completely forgot about it because I was focused on shopping. Safe to say, with this product you won't have to worry about smelly underarms while Christmas shopping in tight, humid places packed with crazy shoppers (e.g Divisoria, or the Worldbex Bazaar).

Spotted Phoemela Berranda doing her patrol for the news.

8PM I secretly smelled my UA and no B.O. but the Rexona scent has faded. But come to think of it, a deodorant that lasts THAT long and THAT strong deserves an award. Don't you just hate the smell of BO? It gives me migraine and sometimes I want to hand deodorants to people. Even the richest most pretty people have B.O.



Here are some FAQs about this new must-try deodorant:

- it is best to use at night before sleeping when the skin absorbs the clinical protection best. No need to reapply in the morning even after shower.

- it has moisturizers which protects your underarms from darkening.

- Rexona Clinical Protection offers 48 hours protection even for the most excessive sweaters.

This is a premium product from Rexona and is priced at around Php 300, available at Watsons. Currently, this is my deodorant of choice.


I have confidence!




Watch the video above and see who's helping Julie Garwood sing. Must-watch!

More Clinelle! Clinelle Blemish Gel Review

I am officially converted to Clinelle and can't help but hoard all products applicable to my skin type. Though I still can't wait to go back to my derma products, Clinelle is a skincare line good enough to even my skin tone for a brighter and softer skin.

Two weeks ago, I almost got Clinelle Facial Scrub and Clinelle Blemish Gel. The promodizer told me if I get 500 worth of Clinelle products, I'd get 800 worth of products for FREE. The loot includes the essential care line: cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and some more products, and a Carmen Soo pillow and stress ball x.x

But as I was about to pay, the promodizer apologized and told me they ran out of some of the free stuff. Read: all the Clinelle products except for the Carmen Soo pillow and stress ball hurrrr...

I didn't realize I also got a tampered box, with the ends open and the top unsealed. Not my lucky day.

Anyway I still got the Blemish Gel on a separate occasion (still on discounted price at Watsons but I could no longer find the same promotion) and here's my review. Unlike other pimple gel this product does not sting or feel anything at all. I use it on blemish spots before sleeping and in the morning.

I could say it reduces redness and bumps by 60%, that's around 1 day worth of healing period for blemishes and pimples. I did not even read what it was made of but certainly, the ingredients must be mild because they do not produce stinging and skin darkening. It didn't make spots too dry to cause flaking either.

In short, it works without all the side effects of the usual blemish/pimple gels. The packaging says it can be worn under makeup too :)

Have you tried Clinelle Blemish Gel yet?

Clinelle Professional Care Review

Clinelle, a brand that has cared for the skin of many women across the world has finally arrived in the Philippines. This brand is a hit in the US, China, Taiwan, HK, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia.

I've read about it a number of times in beauty forums but never had my hands on the products until now. You can get Clinelle at Watsons.

It has been 3 days since I used Clinelle and I am still using the following products from its essential care line + the SnoWhite Mask many have been raving about:

1. Clinelle Caring Milk Cleanser 100ML (Php 399.00)

This cleanser is without suds, or bubbles like what is expected of milk cleansers like Cetaphil. With Clinelle, I only used a little but was confident I had a clean face afterwards unlike with other sud-free cleansers that I usually repeat washing with.

All products of Clinelle says it provides balance, soothing, and healing. My skin felt soft and more comfortable after washing. Can't believe how light it felt, no kidding.

2. Clinelle Purifying Toner 200ML (Php 399.00)

The toner, which is alcohol-free feels like baby oil (without the oiliness) maybe because it was really gentle. Though I think I feel a safe bit amount of stinging. Like the Milk Cleanser, it has a mild scent which you could love or hate but it fades quickly anyway. It promises to control acne and promote skin cell renewal.

It was successful in removing traces of makeup and since it made my skin feel soft, it completely relaxed me and prepared the skin for the next product which is...



3. Clinelle Moisture Glow 50ML (Php 439.00)

I am using this only at night, when I am not using the SnoWhite Mask. This moisturizer is easily absorbed but might make your skin too oily. What I do is, after an hour or so of application, I wipe my face with a facial tissue to remove excess products.

When I wake up, my skin tone looks more even and redness is decreased. That's why it's called Moisture Glow? I believe in the soothing properties of this product but wish it doesn't make skin oilier.


4. Clinelle Eye Bright 15ML (Php 529.00)

This is the first eye cream I ever used in my lifetime. Staring at the laptop screen all day made my eyes look really tired with dark circles. Tell me if I am hallucinating, but after gently tapping my eye area with this eye cream - my eyes look brighter.

I use it AM and PM, I think I love all the items in this skin care line already.

5. Clinelle SnoWhite Mask 50ML (Php 729.00)

The SnoWhite Mask is a wash off mask. Just let it stay on your skin for 15-30 minutes. Used this product on the first day of my review and I felt my skin being soothed and relaxed. It did make a difference the day after, no wonder this is one of the famous Clinelle products out there.

Too bad that I can't use it daily, recommended usage is just 3 times a week.

I'm excited about these Clinelle products and they have a wide range for different types of skin. I've read reviews about their acne gel, pressed powder, etc. Yup loads more of Clinelle products but I'll stick to these for now. Each box contains an instruction sheet on what to use and when. Also recommendations if you have other skin conditions :)

Have you tried Clinelle?

Here's a link to the Clinelle FB Page for more information.

Tried and Tested: Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stain + Balm

Highschool during my time - we were obsessed with lip and cheek stains that came in tiny tubes. We'd rub it on our cheeks and pretend it was a natural flush so we won't get disciplined. And what's great about stains are their natural look. No one can really tell unless you go overboard.

Every girl was gaga to get a "just bitten" and "just pinched" effect. I don't know how but I'd forgotten this cool trick with lip tints/stains until I bumped into another invention by Revlon.

"Vitamin enriched formula with Vitamin C for anti-oxidant protection. Color does not smudge or streak in 10 lightweight shades."



Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stain + Balm

How to Use:

1. Apply marker directly to clean, dry lips
2. Build color and coverage as desired
3. After 30 seconds add extra shine and moisture by applying the balm

I got all 3 colors because they work like magic, as if I am naturally endowed with red or pink healthy 'just bitten'lips depending on the color I use. Unlike its predecessors, Revlon's Just Bitten Lip Stain comes in a form of a pen. Just swipe it on your lips and tada! Colour that lasts the whole day.

I use Gothic Red for serious days, and Passion for fun days. Yep.

On the other end of the product is a lip balm which should protect your lips from cracking. The balm is snot shiny nor sticky, which contributes to the just bitten effect.

I am amazed. No more re-applying lipstick for me or that obviously colored lips :) I started using lipstick this month after some consultations with other beauty bloggers. Now I am a convert, a lip colour is a good weapon.



I wonder though if we can use this as cheek tint as well? That's just the thrifty me asking.

Beauty: Simple Eye Makeup with Revlon Grow Luscious

Here's a simple eye makeup routine that uses the simplest, no-brainer, eye makeup products from Revlon, Maybelline, and The Body Shop.


Without eye makeup

First, start with clean eyebrows by using an eyebrow blade/shaver. Around Php 60 for 3 sets of blades in beauty stores.

Next, I discovered how using a higlighter/concealer from The Body Shop beneath the eyebrows makes your eyes look even cleaner.

Line your brows lightly with Maybelline Eyebrow Pencil. Fuller eyebrows make you look years younger.



Now time to bring out The Body Shop Kajal Gel Eyeliner. I've learned to use it just on the top lids, then smudge the outer edge of your lids with your lady finger. Makes it look a bit smoky without too much fuss.



I lost my MAC eyelash curler but I grabbed a new Revlon Mascara which makes the eyelashes look longer. I like the big bristle brush which have been replaced nowadays with fancy shapes. The bigger the brush or wand, the easier for me to finish everything fast.


with Revlon Growluscious Mascara

Even without curling, the lashes look darker and fuller. Matches the kajal eyeliner gel well. Tada! Now you have eyes that are not too fancy and not too plain. Just simple like grey.

Beauty: Montagne Jeunesse Masks

These masks kept on nudging my curiousity every time I pass them by at Watsons. First, who would miss their fancy packaging with funny photos of models wearing masks. I find them funny :)



Today I tried the Ceramides Montagne Jeunesse Mask for sensitive skin, which is actually a 2-in-1 product! Step 1 is at the bottom which contains the masque. Step 2 is the top part that contains the ceramides serum.



Cut it in half with a pair of scissors to prevent the product from spilling. Remember to use the bottom part first. It's the Zen Flower Sensitive Masque.



The mask was relaxing indeed, it had a minty feel and you can apply a generous amount, as much as you like. Keep it on for 10 minutes or so. The packaging says remove with water, but I would suggest you damp a face towel to wipe the mask off, then rinse with water.

Now onto the ceramides serum, it was very light and I had a good time massaging it lightly onto my skin. The serum was absorbed fast and gave my face a matte finish.

The product gave me a powdery glow and I feel like it also lifted off some dead skin cells. It's perfect for the pockets of time you get from work or traveling. Think of it as a spa in a sachet. There are other variants like the Chocolate Masque I also want to try because it's just so fun and easy unlike factoring polynomials. Do this before an important date, when you feel super stressed out, or just want to be refreshed.



This post is brought to you by math problem solver and college algebra.

The Black Pond's - Pure White Facial Foam with Activated Carbon Review

Tried and tested! I was very curious when I saw this Pond's TVC, right away I wanted to try it. Because I want something that can suck the gunk out of my face: -



I say that this product really sucks, as in suck the impurities off your face. Before trying the product I glanced at the mirror and noted how little blackheads where on my nose. After washing, my face looked brighter and the little devils on my nose have been sucked and destroyed by the activated carbon.


This is hardcore product testing!

Compared to other Pond's facial wash, I think this is the best to use after removing your make up with Pond's Cold Cream which I swear by. I get more pimples when I don't use their cold cream. Back to the Pure White Facial Foam, it feels that all make-up and grime are removed after one wash.

One thing I noticed though is that it doesn't help control the oil and sebum on my face. I regularly use Pond's Clear Solutions Facial Wash which really mattifies my oily skin very well. So I think I can use Clear Solutions in the morning and the Pure White Facial foam during the night. I asked someone from Pond's and he says it is perfectly safe to use and combine all of their products.


Me at the Pond's Institute (not really) trying the activated carbon for myself!

The Pond's Pure White Facial Foam is a winner because of the activated carbon technology. It is basically like charcoal that absorbs impurities but the ingredient used by Pond's is activated carbon which has more absorbing power than regular carbon as seen on a microscope.

You can try Pond's Pure White Facial Foam for yourself, it is available in different sizes and even in sachets. Let me know how you find it :)

Hair Revelation: Sunsilk Co-Creations

Because 'revelations' and 'mysteries' are uso I am just going to hop in this hairy topic :p Guess what these are inside my shower cabinet:



I love the rainbow effect, don't you? It's really no mystery because one look and obviously they are Sunsilk Co-Creations Shampoo. I've been using Yuko Yamashita's pink shampoo called Smooth and Manageable ever since it was revealed and made available on the racks.


Why? Because I love anything Japanese and it makes my hair soft, smooth, and yummy because of it's sweet soft yogurt-y scent. I am not saying these because I've been sent tons of shampoo bottles but because I really use Sunsilk's Smooth & Manageable shampoo. The only thing I haven't tried is the Creamsilk conditioner, I don't know yet which variant matches my shampoo
of choice.

Co-created by Japanese hair expert, Yuko Yamashita

If you've noticed how my hair is freed of chok-choks and pampony these days, it's all thanks to Ms. Yamashita haha :) I haven't tried the new Creamsilk Conditioners but I will soon and I hope it makes my hair even better.

I wonder if Yuko ever came to visit Manila? I want my hair expertly touched by her :p

Elianto Miracle UV BB Balm - I Got It!

I think Elianto has cast a spell on me, I swear I am not being sent these products but buying them off the shelf! I just thought I needed a new approach when it comes to make-up and I am trying it the Korean way through this Korean brand. All though I read some say it is made in Malaysia and not Korea, it still works the same according to most beauty bloggers :)



My first Elianto purchase was a success and I couldn't sleep until I got another product which is the Elianto Miracle UV BB Balm. Elianto's best seller, in fact, one stall I visited said they were out of stock. So I asked my super nice lovey dovey hubby again to get me this item here at SM Bacoor where they also have a new stall.

It was my friend Mariel, who tried the BB Balm first when we first saw the Elianto shop. It gave her a glowing and fresh look although the attendant used the BB Balm together with the BB cream. Both items are around Php 700 each, I asked if the BB Balm can be used alone and the saleslady said yes but the effect is better if it is topped with the BB cream.


Untouched Elianto Miracle UV BB Balm

I haven't tried it yet, my Elianto BB Balm is still a virgin until I have the time to go out and put it to use. Then, I shall post pictures again of the result. I've been looking at YouTube for video tutorials on how to properly use the Elianto BB Balm but I can't find any! x.x

Tried and Tested: Celeteque Facial Wash and Scrub

Noted that my pregnant hormones are causing my skin all the rage - I still tried Celeteque Facial Wash and Scrub after receiving it in my mailbox. My first impression is that Celeteque is similar to another brand called Cetaphil which is also a gentle cleanser.



I checked the back label for any dangerous ingredients (for the little boy) and I think I didn't see any. So after first use, here are the good points I have for Celeteque:

- it is more foamy than other gentle cleansers which is good because I am not contented until I see foams or bubbles. Just a visual that your face is really getting cleaned.

- I only used a small amount and it was enough for my face

- the texture is really smooth

The pack I received also contained a Celeteque facial scrub or exfoliating facial wash that you can use every other day. The exfoliating beads are gentle and soft but you can feel how it deeply cleanses your skin compared to the normal facial wash.

Both products are great to use in removing makeup or dirt from the daily grind. You can use it as many times as you want, perfect for summer. I brought these products with me to two out of town trips already :)

My verdict is that Celeteque's facial wash are great for those with normal skin and for preggers like me who have to skip derma products for a while. It is good for maintaining good skin but in terms of preventing breakouts or eliminating acne - Celeteque can offer something else :)

Tried and Tested: Maybelline Clear Smooth Minerals Concealer

What I love about Maybelline products is how they are affordable and accessible from any mall near you. It's easy to grab whenever you ran out of their products or you are on a binge shopping spree.

Here's something new to add to your make up kit (hopefully, it's not that full!)

The new Maybelline Clear Smooth Minerals Concealer compliments the Clear Smooth Minerals line. This is perfect if you have acne scars or upcoming blemishes that you need to cover up. This liquid concealer is easy to apply and glides on the skin smoothly, unlike concealer sticks that can become cakey or too white for your skin - making the imperfection even more obvious. This concealer also works for dark under eye circles!




How to apply:

You can apply the concealer before applying the Clear Smooth Minerals Foundation. The concealer is easily absorbed by the skin and you only have to put small dots. This concealer comes with a "wand" to achieve perfect application.

Now you can dust your foundation on, followed by the Clear Smooth Minerals Blush, and top off with the Clear Smooth face powder. Easy as pie!

If you overlooked some spots, just dot a small amount of the Clear Smooth Minerals Natural Concealer and tap with your finger. It's great how this concealer looks very natural no matter if you applied it before or after your makeup.

The Clear Smooth Concealer costs around Php 350 ++, depending if the counter is on sale when they offer 20% off all products.

Tried and Tested: Avon's Ultra Moisture Rich 24k Gold Lipstick

The product name is a mouthful but after swiping Avon's UMR lipstick, your lips will never be the same again. As a non-lipstick user, my lips are almost virgin when it comes to lipstick. Most of the lipsticks I tried float on my lips and are so embarassingly obvious and awkward.



Today I tried Avon's Ultra Moisture Rich 24k Gold Lipstick in Golden Peach. My ignorance set in and I tried to put lip balm and powder foundation on my lips first before applying the lipstick itself. My lips looked super nude which was cool but my lips felt heavy and I am not sure if my foundation is edible?


Avon's Ultra Moisture Rich 24K Lipstick in Golden Peach

So after I munched on some Greenwich pizza, everything was gone and I simply swiped on the Ultra Moisture Rich lipstick. I couldn't believe my eyes, it looked even better by itself and there is no need for special rituals (like putting powder on lips first). It matched my skin perfectly whilst still maintaining the nude color that I love.

The shine provided by the UMR lipstick is from its micro sparkling elements and not from a sticky glossy substance some lipsticks have. My lips didn't feel heavy and it was as if one is wearing nothing.


My instant collection of Avon's UMR lipstick, thank you Santa! :)

As for the staying power, some of my UMR lipstick transferred to my table napkin while enjoying desserts. Yet I think it is normal because of the swiping movement I do with my table napkin. I checked my glass and some lipstick also left a trace. And because I knew how great my lips look with the UMR, I hurriedly excused myself for a re-application :) It's as if I discovered lipstick for the first time. On another note, the UMR did not dry my lips or made it flaky.

I think this lipstick is going to be a mainstay in my makeup kit. Surprisingly, lipstick can also affect a lady's diet. Why? Because you wouldn't want your lipstick to be messed up by eating. I love it! :)

Oh my thighs! Nivea My Silhouette Review

After watching the advertisements on TV incessantly, I gave in and bought this Php 560 lotion. Now my bottle is empty and I can give you an honest review of Nivea My Silhouette.

My Silhouette is gel based and is easy to apply. The lotion is quickly absorbed by the skin, it gives you "just-out-of-the-shower" freshness with its light refreshing scent. This scent will not last very long. After application, the skin feels silky soft - an added bonus since the main use of My Silhouette is for fat reduction.

However, my hands feel sticky after putting it all over my thighs so I usually wash my hands after using. The bottle suggests that it be used twice a day but I used it only at night.

After consuming Nivea My Silhouette, bottoms up - I can say that it works. I often feel my inner thighs rubbing against each other when I walk but now I barely notice or feel them rubbing against each other. It also reduced "waves" on my thighs which may be classified under cellulites. My skin is also smoother but I feel that My Silhouette is not very good at moisturizing.

Maybe, it would be better to use Nivea My Silhouette at night and a moisturizing lotion at daytime. I recommend Nivea My Silhouette, your sweet thighs are worth it :)