Pardon the silence on here but life / work caught up with me, along with a viral infection from the office that left me under the weather with the voice of a 50 year old.

Right now I may not be able to speak in person (darn sore throat) but I can still type, so here goes!

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From Dior's Summer 2013 collection, the exquisitely packaged and embossed Dior Nude Tan Paradise Duo in Pink Glow is certainly a very wearable collectors item.

For the longest time ever, I have been spying on the Dior Nude bronzers (from past years) and had to drag myself away from the counter. As much as I would love to splurge on them, I had other things in mind or tried to restrain myself by rationalizing that I was out of the bronzer phase.

Thus, pardon the long intro but what I want to say is, I am so glad that I have this in my collection now and a bronzer / blush duo at that. This would certainly get some uses from me.

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Back to this.

Like past Dior Nude bronzers, Pink Glow comes with a little kabuki brush of its own complete with a velvet roll for keeping and carrying the brush in.

The quality of the kabuki included is quite good — soft and not too flimsy nor too dense.

Here is a size comparison of the Dior Kabuki alongside my trusty MAC 227.

I like to use the kabuki for the bronzing side, to add a soft contour or buff color all over though I prefer using my blush brush for the blush side of the duo.

While the velvet sleeves are without a doubt dust and powder magnets, they do add a lovely touch of class to the whole packaging.

Of course we also can't forget the compact design of the Nude Tan Paradise Duo with its plush quilt-like design on a solid metallic case that carries some weight to it. Though yes, metallic also means this is a finger-print magnet but I don't mind it here because you can easily wipe it clear again.

The compact is decent and size and fits easily into the palm of the hand.

The compact comes to a shut with a firm magnetic hold, eliminating the need for clasps and clicks, leaving the surface sleek.

Now, on to what is in the case.

The powder feels very fine and soft to the touch, swatching smoothly across the skin.

The blush and bronzer both swatch evenly with a soft satin sheen. Since they are face colors, the pigmentation imparted is soft and what you see is, of course, a heavier swatch.

While tan-skinned ladies may have stayed away from the earlier Dior Nude bronzers, the inclusion of a blush in this one will give you a reason to consider. When swirled togther, the blush takes on a lovely tan-pink tone.

It probably would not be the best representation on me but check out how lovely it looks on Eliza's skintone.

I haven't got a proper shot of this Bronzer / Blush duo on myself as of now but I will post a Look Feature once I snap that!

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Diorskin Nude Tan Paradise Duo (Irridescent Blush & Bronzing Powder) retails for S$90 for 9.5gm and is inclusive of a mini Kabuki brush.

I don't deny that it is pricey but if you have always wanted to get your hands on the Diorskin Nude Tans, this is a good one to have and collect.

Thanks to Eliza and Mabel for the heads up, word is we will be receiving Coral Glow so start stalking your Dior counters if peachy is your thing, or if you want both.

Thanks for reading!

After the continuous slew of haul posts, here's a quick look at what vibrant delights Dior has to offer this Summer!

Putting out a splash of color and products to beat the Summer heat, Dior's summer releases see a tropical themed release with the Bird of Paradise collection followed by some hot hot heat in the Dior Summer Mix. To top it all off, what is the best way to bask in the heat while still looking put together? Why not try the Diorskin Forever Extreme Control Powder Foundation.

Let's take a quick peak at each of the collections!

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Bird of Paradise

Already available at Dior counters, the Bird of Paradise Summer 2013 collection plays with eye-catching cool hues to battle this hot summer heat!

This collection comes with a good mix of products and have you covered from eyes to lips, cheeks and nails!

(glosses are from the Dior Addict Gloss launch which I have not gone into detail about, oops)

For those who have not checked out this collection at Dior counters, here's what it includes:

• Diorskin Nude Tan Paradise Blush / Bronzer Duo in Pink Glow
• 1 Couleur Eye Gloss (4 shades)
• 5 Couleur Eyeshadows (2 shades)
• Vernis Nail Duos (2 sets)
• Jelly Lip Pencils (3 shades)

The US release of this collection sees some extra items such as a coral variant of the Nude Tan Paradise Duo (while we only have the pink), though it seems they seem to be short of the 4 Eye Glosses that we have with our release. But I could be wrong.

Regardless here are quick photos of the items!

5 Couleur Eyeshadows —

Vernis Nail Duos —

Duo pictured above is 'Samba', and here is the right shade swatched on Sophia; thanks for letting me snap your swatch!

Not pictured is the Bahia duo which was not present but here is the blue/pink combo, from WillPaintNailsForFood.

Diorskin Nude Tan Paradise Blush / Bronzer Duo —

More about this beauty to come!

1 Coleur Eye Gloss —

The Jelly Lip Pencils were not available at that point of time but I have 1 on hand and will talk a little more about it in another post.

As mentioned, the Bird of Paradise collection is currently available at Dior counters and I would suggest you head down and grab what catches your eye!

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Moving on from something that is already out to an up and coming release. Stated to launch 10th June is the new Diorskin Forever Extreme Control Powder Foundation.

Diorskin Forever Extreme Control

A foundation created to last through the hot Summer heat (which is Singapore's weather 90% of the time), Diorskin Forever promises exceptional wear time while perfecting the look of your skin.

Combining a matte-effect with a light-weight feel, Diorskin Forever sweeps across the skin leaving a velvety finish that is said to last and last in extreme Summer conditions.

Those who fear the flat and caked-on look of heavy-sounding powder foundations can be at ease as Diorskin Forever Powder promises a perfect yet skin-like look.

With a blend of smoothing micro-beads and powder plaques (not plague, mind you) along with matte mother of pearl (I know, I am confused myself), this helps to reflect light and illumine skin texture without any appearance of shine.

If shine has always been your worst nemesis and you avoid dewy looks or finishes, this sounds like an interesting alternative to look into without flattening the dimensions of your face!

The secret to its amazing wear lies within the Control Wear Complex™. This absorbent micro-pearl works behind the scenes to control and capture excess sebum. This allows the foundation to stick closer to the skin, without being eaten away by facial oils, and gives you a lasting and also matte appearance for an extended period of time.

Well now, I know that's a lot of theory for a quick introduction to this Summer base so I shall leave it at this for now.

I have received a Compact from Dior and would be giving this foundation a go, reporting back once I have gathered my findings. Fingers crossed that perhaps this could truly be a miracle product for our climate!

I have mentioned Summer Mix in the paragraph above but I cannot share about it as of now though do look out for this hot, heated and vibrant collection soon! Mentions will probably be popping up in June, if I manage time for it.

Thanks for reading! Are you spying on any Summer release / products?

From the folks that bring you Redoxon and other health supplements, here is Bepanthen® Ointment — an ointment targetted at treating nappy rash.

Now before the term 'nappy rash' has you clicking out this post, hear me out.

While predominantly advertised for soothing Nappy Rash in babies (or even elderly folks who rely on adult diapers), it does have other skin healing and soothing properties as well.

What's more if it is gentle enough for a baby's bottom you can be rest assured that it will be free of any harmful or strong subtances that could irritate or ignite sensitivity in skin.

For a start, you would be glad to know that this is paraben-free, fragrance and preservative free.

That aside some nappy rash creams, or multi-purpose skin soothing ointments, rely on Zinc Oxide to help construct that waxy film of ointment.

While Zinc Oxide is an approved chemical to be used within creams, there are some parents who have raised concerns regarding that and I don't blame their cautious-ness. After all, a baby's delicate skin is about 30-50% thinner than ours.

(From Bepanthen)

In a sleek, handy and sturdy tube, Bepanthen can easily fit into and withstand some tossing around in your diaper bag.

Healing –

The main healing tool in Bepanthen is Vitamin B5, which is crucial and optimal for healing rash. The science of it is when this vitamin comes in contact with skin, it converts to something called pantothenic acid, which boosts cell regeneration and promotes the healing of skin. Vitamin B5 is also known as a moisturizing agent in certain skincare and hair care products.

Anti-Bacterial –

While not an antiseptic (because that can be harsh on delicate skin), Bepanthen does have anti-bacterial properties through the ingredient benzalkonium chloride.

Lubricating –

Bepanthen also contains almond oil which works great for lubricating the skin, softening and also soothing the affected area. The soothing effect works especially well to rid of any discomfort caused by the rash.

– As A Nappy Cream —

Because the main point of this item is it being a Nappy Cream, with my experience with it on baby, I'd say this gets the job done.

I did not know how easy it would be for little ones to develop Nappy Rash, until I experienced it for myself (not literally of course). Nappy rash can get quite severe, from what I have seen on it and I doubt I want to scare or shock you with an inflamed baby's bum but google at your own risk.

Previously I was using PURE by Phyto (Paw paw) which also worked rather well but because it is of an oilier nature and extremely natural (as proclaimed by the brand), it does separate into oil and paste and could get quite messy with use.

Bepathen dispenses like a creamy balm that spreads on very easily and 'sticks' firmly on the skin.

For the effectiveness of this on a baby's bum, I'd say like skincare it should vary from child to child but there are loads of positive feedback about Bepanthen and I guess I am adding mine to the sea of it.

With one application (once any redness is detected), I have noticed that the redness subsides and any mild bumps that may have been forming would ease off and the skin appears normal and clear once more.

Speaking of adults, while this is a Nappy Rash cream, who says we can't snitch a little bit of it for ourselves too.

– As a Multi-purpose Cream —

Nappy cream aside, I have tried this on myself for skin issues such as dry patches, eczema itches, mosquito bites and moisturizing dry areas (like elbows).

The cream is of a rather thick texture but blends out quite well and doesn't leave a greasy patch. It is tacky due to the ointment factor but it does not slip and slide all over the place, I find.

I have enjoyed it for protecting and aiding with healing on dry and rash patches of my skin. With that said, those battling eczema or rash may find this quite a nice product to have around to soothe the dry itch and also facilitate with skin healing. It isn't a miracle worker and doesn't yield overnight results (because it is meant to be somewhat gentle still) but it certainly is a good duo to use on top of any eczema medication you may already be using.

Afterall, I personally find while eczema medication zaps the rash, it totally sucks the skin dry as well so a bit of tender loving care balm would be nice.

That aside, something I uncovered (because of the interesting Google Suggestion) is that Bepanthen is recommended by tattoo artists to help condition and soothe the itch you get from a new tattoo. It also helps to protect the agitated skin and encourages it to heal!

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Though enough of all that talk, instead of just reading about what I have to think about it, why don't you give it a shot yourself!

Bayers is offering a set of Full-sized Bepanthen Ointment + Diaper Clutch for the first 300 readers* who register for this freebie via their website!

*after the first 300 have redeemed, subsequent readers will still receive a 3.5g Bepanthen sample!

It is completely fuss-free and after filling in some quick details you would have a full-sized tube of Bepanthen Ointment to try on your baby, gift a friend or relative with a baby or even use it on yourself to soothe dry skin and rash!

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Redeeming Your FREE Bepanthen Ointment!

Very simply, visit Bepanthen's website by clicking here!

Once on the site, click on button to 'Claim Your Free Sample!'

Next, fill in a simple form with quick information for Bepanthen to arrange for a delivery of the product to you.

BUT!

don't forget to input 'icyabstract' within the 'Promotional Code' area so they will know if you are within the first 300!

It's as simple as that!

Quick ground rules would be:

• This sample redemption is only opened to those residing in Singapore only.
• 1 residential address is only entitled to 1 sample redemption
• Lastly, do allow up to 14 days for the delivery of the product (handled from Bayer's end, not mine)

It's that quick and fuss-free. Though if you prefer to purchase or are considering to after trying your sample, Bayer retails at Watsons or Guardian for S$8.95.

Redeem Your Free Sample! >>

Well thanks for reading and hope while it is baby-news it is also informative and helpful to everyone reading!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

Remember my not-so-secret obsession with loose powder?

Apparently that struck me full force when I laid eyes on the (rather) new Diorsnow White Reveal Transparency Loose Powder SPF 15 PA++. Obsession aside, I did try to be rational and not purchase it on my first encounter with it, giving myself time to really think it through.

Yet I could not forget about the powder no matter how much I tried and in my theory — if you can't take your mind off it, you need it.

Perched quietly in the skincare category, the Pure Transparency Loose Powder (shortened name from here on) is enriched with Icelandic Glacial™ Water, which gives it the 'Pure' factor within the name.

Quick titbit about Icelandic Glacial™ Water — It is a natural spring water derived from the glacials of Iceland; it poises itself as the "purest water on Earth". Crystal clear in quality, this spring water contains a mineral rich mix of Calcium, Magnesium and more, leaving it with an alkaline ph level. Another quick point, alkaline water is good at soothing our skin by balancing the ph levels in our (usually acidic) skin.

While I found out all that good stuff only after the purchase while putting this post together, what drew me in would be the very frivolous fact that... the powder is pink!

Cheap thrill, check out that lovely snowflake design on the sifter!

Call me a sucker for such antiques but the soft pink (or Crystal Lilac, as Dior describes it) hue serves a purpose as well.

This pastel rosey shade helps to brighten dull complexions, reduce redness on the skin and provide an overall fresh, healthy glow look to the skin.

Brightening, Correcting and Fresh radiance? Maybe I am biased towards my own concerns of appearing dull-skinned but that is ticking all the right boxes for me!

The pink factor aside, the powder itself is very soft and finely milled. With micronized powders, this smooths the surface of the skin in both appearance and to the touch.

Though unlike my rather recent acquisition, NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder, the Pure Transparency Loose Powder is not invisible on the skin.

It does lend some coverage, which I do prefer, as far as face powders go. A light veil of coverage just seems to help wrap everything up and seal them together - the foundation, concealer etc. However the light veil also means that those with tanner skin may want to swatch this first, incase it is too fair on.

While the powder claims to give a healthy glow, do not expect a dewy or outrightly glowy finish. Think highlighters and 'glossy' skin.

The powder illuminates the skin simply by lending a brightened appearance and a very natural / soft sheen, almost like how skin naturally shines. The overall finish of the powder leans towards a more satin look so don't expect dewy with this bugger!

Pardon the red blotches on my hand. No, it is not some odd skin reaction but rather I busied myself with swatching lipsticks prior, hence.

This Loose Powder also comes with a very pretty Dior-adorned powder puff. However as pretty as it is, I feel the puff a little small for my liking.

Though in purpose it functions fine and is fluffy and plush enough to not feel 'cheapy'. Some may like the smaller size for the precision and ease of maneuvering but when it comes to loose powder, I prefer a bigger puff to get the job done.

Product aside, I am also a bit of a sucker for how white and gorgeous the white Dior packaging looks sitting on my vanity.

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While this is a haul entry I loaded it up with a bit of information here and there, hope it wasn't too long-winded or dull to read.

I am currently in the midst of alternating between this and NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder. Though I must admit that NARS's Loose Powder is one contender that is hard to beat!

Diorsnow White Reveal Pure Transparency Loose Powder SPF 15 PA++ retails for S$80 (14gm)

Thanks for reading! What is one loose powder that you use and love?

If you ask me, I think YSL's Tie & Dye La Lacque is quite a genius product.

While simple in function, performing as a glitzy topcoat to add some spice to your manicure, the beautiful and interesting settling of the product makes you need it in your stash.

Which is probably why I ended up with it even though I hardly have time to paint my nails these days.

A Spring 2013 release, these Tie & Dye La Lacques are sold in extremely limited quantities on our shores. Word is that only 24 pieces per color were brought in (to the YSL Boutique at ION only) and they could very well be sold out by now.

I managed to pick one up by dropping by the YSL Ion Boutique when the stocks were in but testers and word of the release was not out yet.

When left to stand (for quite a long while), the polish settles into three beautiful layers, perfectly showcasing the formula.

Though when shaken up, it appears like a shimmery, shiny, and part metallic mixture.

The polish is fairly liquid too hence it is not hard to shake it up.

Going for S$35 each, these polishes give a hint of color with more emphasis on the glowing shimmer and shine.

Hip coat, the one I have here, has a purple-ish hue to it along with occasional flashes of pearly blue and green tones.

Amongst the 4 shades, this caught my eye the most and seemed the prettiest and most unique, though they are all gorgeous.

I did not bother with doing a swatch of it alone because I anticpated the sheerness of it. Thus, here is Hip Coat worn a monochromatic base.

Base Colors –
MAC Dark Enough? + Random White Polish

Base Color + YSL Hip Coat –

Pardon the spam but at certain angles Hip Coat, while being largely purple, can look a little greenish too.

While I applied 2 coats of Hip Coat over the white base, apparently it hardly shows up on camera and the black base has stolen the show. In person, it is a soft irridescent touch but hardly noticeable unless you were inspecting it.

I have a mind to try Hip Coat over a purple base, just to see how it would transform. Though that is if I can find time to paint my nails again!

For swatches of the other shades, do visit Ommorphia!

Though as I had mentioned, they could be sold out locally by now.

Thanks for reading and hope everyone enjoys their (Labour) day off!