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!

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.

As if planned by some unknown force in the galactic realm, while I was squeezing out the remnants of my current Biore UV Aqua Rich SPF 50 PA+++, a new repackaged and reformulated tube (almost a new product entirely) landed on my doorstep!

Okay, maybe in reality it did not land on my doorstep but rather the letter box, and the unknown force would most likely be the kind folks at Kao Biore.

Though the fact that this happened just as my current sunscreen is being drained of its very last drop is a coincidence.

A happy coincidence, I would like to add, as the Biore UV Aqua Rich (earlier version) very quickly became a staple and favorite after I was recommended to it by makeup pals.

I loved it for how it felt — exactly like a watery essence!

It was very light-weight on, did not leave any greasy residue or tack and definitely did not oil up my face with wear.

Occasionally I like to indulge in a creamier sunscreen but for the most part, this has me very happily covered (from the sun's rays)!

Crowned as the top selling sunscreen in Japan, I was pleasantly surprised to find that this blue-tubed and reformulated Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence actually felt even lighter than the one I already own.

If that is even possible!

A quick check with the folks over at Biore had them informing me that it is a new product entirely — new in packaging and also formulation but inspired and building on the much loved texture of Aqua Rich's earlier predecessors.

The sunscreen is refreshingly light-weight on the skin and due to the infusion of citrus extracts, has an uplifting and refreshing scent to boot.

I particularly like how this feels as you spread it across the skin.

While the earlier (silver) version had a mousse-like liquid consistency and spread very nicely across this skin, this one takes it to the next level and honestly feels just like water.

The technology behind that refreshing burst comes from their use of the Aqua Micro Capsules. These capsules release moisture upon application on the skin, giving the skin a refreshing and hydrating sensation.

The best part of it is that it blends out to absolutely nothing — no stick, no white cast or tint, nothing.

Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, the UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence claims to hydrate and soften the skin with use but I fear hydration will not be a reason to purchase this.

In fact, while it was not drying on my skin, it sure did not feel like I had just injected a boost of moisture either.

Folks with oily / combination skin would most likely love this for the non-existent feel after but those with dry skin may want a creamier sunscreen or a more hydrating daycream to double up.

Another thing I noticed about this is that the alcohol content within seems quite high, taking the 2nd spot on the ingredients list.

Even without studying the list, I can smell and feel the alcohol content within the product, thus those that have drier skin and / or are sensitive to alcohol in products may want to reconsider this.

In terms of how it works, the product is said to provide long-lasting protection from UVA and UVB rays. While I cannot contest that because as long as something has SPF I am certain it helps, one way or another, I do think this product requires touching up if you will be under the sun for an extended period of time.

I would definitely recommend this to those who shy away from sun protection because they do not like how greasy / oily sunscreens typically are.

This is definitely of holy grail status right now, and while I can stand some stick or greasiness, on makeup-less days I definitely do not want to feel like I have anything on and this gives me just that along with good sun coverage!

At S$18.90 for 50ml, I would urge everyone to grab it and give it a go!

Except for those sensitive to alcohol in products or need something a little creamier and more hydrating.

This is available at selected supermarkets and pharmacies (e.g. Guardian)

Thanks for reading!

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

Aside from skincare and skin-perfecting items launched with Dior's Diorsnow Spring 2013, the accompanying Color Collection launch sees a touch of pastel infusion through the Dior 5 Couleur Palette in Frost Bloom 334.

Here's a look at the palette along with some quick swatches and thoughts.

Housed in the usual velvet pouch and midly domed lid, the shades included are a refreshing change from the clear and white color palette of Diorsnow collections. Albeit still refreshing and soft for spring.

Frost Bloom 334 is a pastel-hued palette containing a mix of pearly tones and softer satin shades.

The light pearly tones dominate the palette with their purpose of casting a soft irridescent veil of color and radiance to the lid, as opposed to laying down some heavy pigmentation. The 2 satin shades on the other hand do impart more pigment and still have a soft sheen to them.

Though an opinion I immediately formed while playing around with this is that the dominance of light and pearly tones makes this something nice to have in the stash, as opposed to being an item that you can create a multitude of looks with.

Of course you can use this palette in many ways to create many looks but with the pearlescent shades swatching as a light veil and appearing quite close once worn on the eye along with the 2 stronger shades (pink and blue) not adding the kind of depth that I prefer, I personally would not reach for this alone for a 'complete' eye look.

Though to give the palette credit, it is a beautiful piece both visually and in terms of quality.

The shadows are soft to the touch and glide on smoothly without much or noticeable fallout. I only experienced slight chalkiness with one shade (number 2, as labeled below) but otherwise the rest of the shades were beautiful to work with.

The pigmentation of the pearly shades in this palette is in the style of the typical Asian makeup brands. The shades are a sweep of light radiance on the lids, pearly and beautiful without a strong base color.

As far as pearly shades go, these are in a way quite pigmented in that field. If that makes sense.

I have encountered pearly shades that swatch more translucent so I feel these have a decent base pigmentation to them.

In all, I can't say that this palette is going to be everyone's cup of tea.

If you are a fan of light eye looks with a pearly glint and lovely radiant glow then yes, this would be a beautiful addition to your stash.

For those swayed by the look of the palette but aren't certain about the lightness of the shades, you can consider the fact that these irridescent shades do work well, and really glow, over a darker base.

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I personally enjoy playing around with this palette and finding various ways to wear it – be it on its own, mixed with other shades or over deeper base colors.

Though my favorite of all would be the unimaginative way of sweeping the pearly tones all over my lid for a quick, natural and perked up look. That adds a little sparkle but yet the color isn't too condensed that I feel I need the works to 'match it'.

I wouldn't rank this palette as a must-have but if pastel pearly shades like these, are right up your alley then go for it! Grab this Limited Edition Spring pop of color while it is available.

The Dior 5 Couleurs in Frost Bloom is available from March 2013 onwards.

Thanks for reading!

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

It may seem odd to extract this from the bunch to review first but since I have not converted to using the entire range and am gathering my thoughts for the rest, I figured I would give this a mention first.

After all, a cleanser is typically more straight-forward to review.

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Rachel K's See the Difference skincare range always has me mixed up with the new Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference skincare revamp(?). Don't get me wrong, they aren't the same but its just the names and my scatter-brained self.

The Stem Cell Purfiying Gel Cleanser sounds mighty fancy with the term 'Stem Cell' in the name. Though this cleanser is in fact formulated with innovative PhytoCellTec™ technology and meant to boost the natural performance of our skin's stem cells.

In theory that makes for rejuvenated and supple skin post-wash and while the term 'Purifying' in its name may bring thoughts of a stripping clean feel, this is actually very mild and gentle on the skin.

The gel cleanser is free of foaming chemicals which can dry the skin out with use. Hence this leaves my skin feeling mildly cleansed and refreshed post-wash without any taut or stripped feeling.

Though, this also means that the cleanser does not foam up and for some people that translates to 'the cleanser not really cleaning well'.

However I don't have an issue with cleansers that function that way and while this does not foam up to a puffy mousse extent, it does have a slight sud-ing effect so it is not entirely a 'Cetaphil-sensation' either.

Containing Witch Hazel and also Aloe Vera to help refresh and soothe skin, this has a soft botanical scent to it that I find befitting with the whole gentle nature of the cleanser.

An itsy-bitsy packaging issue I have with this is how the cleanser seems to collect and clot a little on the pump. While that (thankfully) does not affect the function of the pump, it can get a bit messy and in harsher words, gross, over time.

This bottle is also far from being travel-friendly due to the glass-like exterior of it and the loose-fitting plastic cap. Though if you ask me, I have always preferred to travel with squeeze tubes anyway.

Maybe Rachel K can come up with a travel-friendly pack? Just a thought...

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Overall I really like this cleanser for how gentle it feels and the ease of using it. It is definitely not one for grueling skin cleansing or makeup removing but as something to refresh the skin and rid it of oilies and impurities, I think this does the job just right in its mild and refreshing ways.

I am still gathering my thoughts about everything else in the range so all those will come (probably together) a little later!

Rachel K See the Difference Stem Cell Purifying Cleanser retails for S$19 at Watsons.

Are you a fan of foam-free cleansers or prefer full out foamy ones?

Thanks for reading!

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

Almost a season behind in terms of news but come to think of it, the actual Holiday season itself isn't even here yet! Makeup releases, previews and mentions are really getting quite ahead of time!

Though that's not anything bad to complain about. I take it as... time to deliberate and prepare the bank for the damage. ha.

But back to this, the DiorAddict Ultra Gloss in 774 Ceremony Red, as released with the Dior Grand Bal Holiday Collection.

774 Ceremony Red also marks the first DiorAddict Ultra Gloss to be introduced to my stash. After having seen, heard and read about these iconic Dior members for such a long time, I finally have one to whip out when I need to!

Needless to say, the packaging is classic and very Dior.

The are 2 colors launched with the Dior Grand Bal collection, 774 Ceremony Red that I have pictured here and a sheer golden glaze, 424 Lamé Gold.

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Unlike what I have seen of 424 Lamé Gold, 774 Ceremony Red has a rather pigmented base color while being strewn with bits of shimmer.

The dimensional reflects flash a certain pink, silver, purple-ish, gold and even red when it hits the light.

Well, I think I should just let pictures do the talking.

While the shimmer sounds quite spectacular, it is rather fine and serves as a soft touch so one should not expect to be able to distinguish the sparkly reflects from the usual human to human proximity.

After all, we hardly glance close up at a pal's lips even if we do love their lip color, yes?

DiorAddict Ultra Gloss comes with a stubby brush applicator that works well at controlling color placement as well the amount of gloss that is dispensed each time.

I find that each 'dip' brings about just enough gloss for a soft sheer red and if you wanted a more intense look, you may have to re-dip and dab on a slight bit more. While some may want a more intense look straight-out, I don't mind this control as it is always easier to dab on more than have too much on!

While I did mention it is creepy to view someone's lips closeup, here'a a closeup of how 774 Ceremony Red swatches on my lips anyway.

Please excuse the labeling of 'Pearl' in the images.

As you can see, the red base has a lovely pigmentation to it and it does carry a slight translucence, making the color lean a little pink on my not-so-pigmented lips. On more pigmented / redder lips, I can imagine this color being more vibrant and appear redder in tone.

The gloss itself is... well, glossy and feels plush without being sticky on. Aside from the reflects, the glossy nature of this glossy finish helps give the lips a plump and dimensional look.

As this isn't touted to be a stain of any sort, it wears like how a normal gloss would. I get about 3 - 4 hours of wear with this before it fades away with speech, food or drinks.

I noticed that it does not leave any staining effect on the lips either (upon wiping it off) and the fine shimmer bits aren't left noticeably scattered on the lips.

Hydration-wise, I don't have a comment as I do not find it particularly hydrating nor drying at the same time. Though for those with dry lips, you may find the plushness and glossiness of this quite forgiving on. Especially so with the fine glitter that does not accentuate or settle into lines.

In all, I love the formula of this particular DiorAddict and how it looks on, enticing me to give their current range a look or consider upcoming releases.

It is a pity (or blessing!) that I am not huge on glosses (very much prefer the ease of lipsticks), else I may have beelined to Dior counters for more. Though this is one I would recommend if you have some spare moolah to spend (or gift)!

Dior Addict Ultra Gloss in 774 Ceremony Red is Limited Edition and available at S$41 across Dior counters.

Thanks for reading!

Since I haven't been hauling much or snapping shots of my face (lotds) these days, I thought to take this time to do up reviews and my thoughts of items I had received and am using.

I found that reviews were a slight minority amongst my more recent entries so here's a little content swap and me making up for it! I hope these experience-sharing entries help because I personally find myself drawn to reading reviews (as opposed to hauls) of late. How odd...

For the longest time, I have always referred to this as the Naruko AMPM gel moisturizer and it was only while typing up this entry that I searched up its proper name and discovered that it was called the Super Hydra Skin Wakeup Pack.

I had this tube of gel moisturizer in my stash for some time but only (fairly) recently dug it up for use and I think I sure did put it to some good use!

It has definitely seen better days...

I figured, it could be an appropriate moment to share some quick thoughts about this product and this entry would function like a little review / overview for anyone interested in this.

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The toothpaste-like squeeze tube, that looks mangled with my use, is actually housed within a cylindrical tube. Thus, do look out for that instead of a squeeze tube when you are purchasing this off the shelves.

The product dispenses as a clear gel and its texture (and look) is reminiscent of hair gels.

It was only towards the end of using it that I discovered this Wakeup Pack was also termed as a cold mask on Naruko.sg. Instructions say that you can slather the gel liberally over your skin for a cool and hydrating masking session but I did not try that through the course of my usage.

Now... what did I think about it?

For our weather and for my skin, I pretty much loved it!

Though I feel I need to get into some further explanations before I urge anyone to rush out to purchase it.

This, for me, would work best as a day moisturizer or something you use during the course of the day to hydrate your skin. I wouldn't recommend this as a night cream because it is simply too... light and not enriching enough for me but to each their own!

As said, this is a light weight gel moisturizer that is easily absorbed and disappears into the skin. It does not leave a film, shine or any stick on the skin yet gives a refreshing boost of hydration that quenches the skin.

It is almost as if it literally disappears into the skin, giving effects without leaving a trace.

Though one little downside is this quick boost of hydration does go as quick as it comes (or maybe not that quick). Some day-moisturizers can last me the whole time till I give my face a wash however for the Wakeup Pack, I do feel the need to re-apply after a couple of hours due to my skin feeling a little dry and in need of moisture.

I think this is best recommended for those who really irk having any sort of stick or greasy film on the skin — at all. That aside, it also isn't too bad if you are looking for a moisturizer to carry out and about to touch up with. The tapered nozzle also helps with quick and easy control over how much you wish to dispense.

On some days I wish this could be more hydrating for me, on others I am glad for the light-weight feel of it.

I definitely give this a thumbs up yet it isn't something I would go into 'rave-mode' about because I love the light texture yet I would like to play around with day-moisturizers that provide a longer hydration period, now that I have gone through a tube of this.

A quick heads up, while this is animal-cruelty free, it does contain paraben and also alcohol within the ingredients.

Naruko is available at Watsons or you can purchase it online at Naruko.sg
(for S$18.45)

Have you tried this? What are some of your favorite light day moisturizers?

Thanks for reading!

Lancôme has been casting some attention to their range of eye products of late. With the revamp of their Mono Eyeshadows, we also see the inclusion of a new liquid liner! 

Let's welcome the Liner Plume in Noir which promises to last over 6 hours of wear with high definition.

The new Plume Liquid Liner, (which I believe is an asia-exclusive) is housed in a pen-liquid-liner style which I feel is probably one of the best things that had happened to the beauty industry.

By that, I mean the option of a liquid liner in the ease of a 'pen'!

For those who are not fans of the wand applicator that liquid liners traditionally came in, or feel that Lancôme's current liquid offering (Artliner) goes on 'too wet' and takes too long to dry on the lid, you may want to check this new fella out!

I gave this liner a couple of shots but sadly, while I have tried so hard to love it, maybe I am just not fated to be with it.

On a 'good eye day', this liner is pretty awesome but otherwise it just doesn't cut it for me. Though don't let that draw a conclusion for you just yet, read on to found out why.

The liner itself works with the ease of a pen-styled liquid liner, which I feel gives more control and precision than the traditional wand applicators. For me, at least.

I like that this has a foam tip because I feel most foam-tipped liquid liners tend to impart a more intense marker-like pigmentation, as opposed to the brush variant which can be a tad more natural.

Though to be honest, brush pen liquid liners could prove easier for new-comers to get the hang of.

Regardless, I found this liner extremely easy to use and I had the choice of doing a fine-point line or going slightly more dramatic with a thicker wing. Though this is coming from a liquid liner lover — be it foam or brush tipped.

The 'grip' design on Plume Liner is interesting and while it doesn't do a whole lot in terms of aiding with application (because the usual designs don't give me an issue either), it is a chic touch in terms of packaging design.

Though I would personally try not to have any foundation, concealer or cream shadow remanents on my fingers when using this, for fear of staining the grip portion!

The only problem i faced with this liner (which is really my own fault and what makes me picky about liners) is that the outer corner of my eyes is quite prone to liner smudging (usually pencil / kohl liners) due to my eyes having a watering habit.

Due to that, this Liner Plume was not waterproof enough to withstand this 'problem' of mine and a good part of the liner ended up fading away through the day.

Here's how it looks at the end of a normal work day. No getting caught in the rain or anything.

The area that did not come into contact with my eye's tearing issue (at the edges of my eye) appear fine but the 'disappearing liner' does eat a little into my upper lids if you scrutinize and observe the image above.

For the most part I can understand when kohl or pencil liners on the edge and lower lid fades but liquid liners on the upper lid usually hold up quite well for me (e.g. CLIO, Kate and K-Palette) so it was simply a case of me being disappointed that this ended up disappearing through the day.

Otherwise, this liner is lovely if you have 'well-behaved eyes' and face no issues with tearing.

Though the non-waterproof fact may leave you running for shelter when it rains or re-consider the liner if you are catching a chic-flick but that doesn't discredit this little guy for its rather intense pigmentation.

It is simply an extra variant to the market when it comes to looking for a liquid liner. I like it but can't love it though if you ask me what I am going to use this for, I would probably keep it for thin lines of definition on my upper lids, steering clear of the edges of my eye.

I can't recall being provided the price of this but I will update it on here if I manage to get it!

Do you prefer pen-style liquid liners or the traditional wand-applicators?

Thanks for reading!

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

New is really a figurative term here as these Lancôme Ombre Hypnôse Mono Eyeshadows were introduced to the Lancôme counters quite a few months back.

I had received a bag of lovely Lancôme items to try and am slowly making my way through it which, sadly, left these as one of the last few mentions. Though to be slightly fair I did shed some light on these with a largely-Lancôme LOTD I did awhile ago.

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Enough said, Lancôme had decided to do away with their previous arsenal of eyeshadows (though not completely) and bring a whole new experience to shopping up eye colors with the brand.

Introducing 22 shades across 4 different finishes, matte, pearly, irridescent or sparkling, some shades are sure to catch your eye (or land up on your lids!).

The eyeshadows have both a name to it along with an alphanumerical tagging which just makes life so much easier.

Why so? Because...

1. I am no good at remembering colors with an alphanumerical name and...
2. The alphabet used actually denotes the texture or finish of the eyeshadow

So this sums up as a super easy way to reference shade finishes and also to remember the eyeshadow colors/names without being some math whiz!

While the letter representation is pretty straight forward, here's the legend anyway:

M stands for Matte finish
P stands for Pearly finish
I stands for Irridescent finish
S stands for Sparkling finish

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Of the huge array available (and I mean exposing yourself to 22 eyeshadows at one go is kind of huge), I managed to pick 4 that had caught my eye.

Okay, in truth 3 really caught my eye and the last one was a shade that Yanny (from Lancôme) really liked and with her suggestion, I picked it up as well.

One thing about these, which Lancôme might (or might not) revise sometime down the road, would be that the shadows are all encased individually.

It is not a surprising fact but with brands rolling out palette combinations and pan-formed shadows these days, packing shades individually could suddenly seem very space consuming or become a slight problem if you envision yourself picking up a good number of these shadows.

Though that is hardly an issue for me because I have to admit, I kind of love how 'special' it seems when a shadow comes in it's own pretty casing along with an applicator of decent quality (not airy and foamy) and even a mini mirror!

The mirror may hardly be of use and we really would not resort to using that to apply makeup with but it's a nice touch and it could act as a small and sleek pocket mirror once you are done with the shadow.

These individual cases may not be the most practical for everyone but I think it is lovely... for now, while I still have storage space.

Aside from the finish, Lancôme has also classified their shadows into 3 different categories (hope matters don't get confusing!) just to make it less overwhelming at one go and a lot easier to browse —
Luminuous and Fresh, Chic and Sophisticated, Deep and Glamourous.

I think the 3 categories speak pretty well for themselves in terms of what colors they may hold. I tried to make my 4 shadow selection across them all, getting at least 1 shade from each category.

Let's have a look at my final picks:

Vert Innocent (I104) — Irridescent finish (from Chic and Sophisticated)

Lagon Secret (P205) — Pearly finish (from Chic and Sophisticated)

Violine Trésor (P209) — Pearly finish (from Deep and Glamorous)

Tresor Flace (S100) — Sparkling finish (from Luminuous and Fresh)

Of the 4, Vert Innocent and Lagon Secret were pretty much love at first sight, no thanks to how gorgeous the shades look.

While I can't speak for all 22 colors available, based on what I have played around with, the Pearly Finish seems to be the most pigmented and true-to-pan compared to other 2 (Sparkling and Irridescent).

If you have noticed, I did not pick up any mattes because it is a finish I hardly work with (or even deviate to) and within the range, I believe there are only 2 shades that are mattes.

Here are swatches of all 4 shades, without a primer and done with a single swipe using my fingers (because I wanted to feel the shadow texture).

A hand swatch actually does some injustice to Tresor Glace since it is a Sparkling color and I typically find it works best for a super light wash of oomph on the lids or patted on over other colors to give them some... well, sparkle!

The Pearly finish, needless to say, is a rather pigmented one with a lovely pearl glint to the shadows, giving it a smooth texture and slight dimension.

As for the Irridescent finish, there is something to say about the color not appearing as true-to-pan but yet due to the irridescent flashes, looks really lovely when worn on the lids. Just don't expect the same color-strength to be translated to the lids. As you can see above, the greenish hue isn't all that apparent but it is there.

Enough rambling about the eyeshadow and as I always say, with 22 color choices available, it's best that you head down to a Lancôme counter and give these a look-see and swatch to see what catches your eye!

To check out swatches of almost all shades, drop by Evonne's entry!

Lancôme Ombre Hypnôse Mono Eyeshadows retail for S$36 each at all Lancôme counters island-wide

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Makeup-aside, Lancôme had also introduced some new tools to aid with makeup application.

Meet the new range of Lancôme makeup brushes — covering foundation requirements to eye shading, contouring and even lip lining.

I didn't get to snap a shot of the full range since I missed the event but here's a photo of the range from Clara (dblchin).

Of the lot, I was eyeing the crease brush which sadly was unavailable at that time but I am also contented with this soft and fluffy shader brush (named Large Shadow Brush).

It is somewhat your usual flat shader brush that has a certain degree of fluffiness to it, allowing for eyeshadow buffing at the crease area yet it is stiff enough to pat colors down.

The sleek black handle and ferrule makes this appear chic and elegant. The golden engraving and printing of the 'Lancôme' font along with the brush number and Lancôme's iconic rose (as seen on the ferrule) gives it a nice touch of style as well.

I have been using this brush namely for shades like Vert Innocent which requires a stiffer pick-up so the color gets packed on, along with a slight fluffiness so the irridescent portion blends out well around the edges.

I don't have the price of this or the other brushes right now but I will update once I have them on hand!

Have you checked out the new Lancôme Ombre Hypnôse Mono Eyeshadows or picked one / some up yet?

Thanks for reading!

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

This is a seemingly random and repeat post, seeing as how I had given this a proper mention a while ago (on here) but I just wanted to throw in a quick 're-discovered' rave.

I had used this briefly awhile back to gather quick thoughts about how it works in the shower and all but I never felt it's full pow-wow potential until my body was honestly aching, tired and my muscles needed something to soothe it along.

Enter, the Kneipp Juniper Herbal Body Wash.

I shan't ramble too much since all's been said, but when all you want after a day of exerting your muscles – be it standing around, exercising or even shopping up a storm in heels – is a relaxing shower, this is absolutely divine.

A bath would be amazing but we don't always have time for it and if you have no issues with the mildly medicated salonpas scent, or infact if you like that, I would say this is the next best thing to slapping salonpas stickers all over your body. Plus you get a refreshing hot shower at the same time.

I hardly think I am imagining this but my skin does have a light tingle post-shower. Nothing that is scary or like lip-plumpers all over but instead the tingle is a soothing and refreshing feeling coursing through the muscles – I love!

I can't stress how much I love this but the slight downer is how the boy complains the shower smells like an 'old person's room' after. Oops. Not the most alluring scent but heck, if my muscles love it, he doesn't have a choice! Plus I believe he secretly likes using it too sans the scent (for him).

I am even contemplating snapping up a bottle for my dad to use after his golf games; I think he would love that.

Kneipp Herbal Body Wash retails for S$19.90 (200ml) and is available at select Unity Healthcares, Guardians and Uchino Bath Designs (full listings here).

Thanks for reading this random rave!

While it is a review, I would like to think this is more of... sharing my thoughts about this product? 

Sometimes I find the term 'review' can sound a little too 'fact-heavy' but I guess there really isn't any other way to put it.

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Nonetheless, aside from their sunscreen, I have never used any Clarins products prior and have only heard positive remarks about their whole skincare and bodycare range.

I had received a bodycare travel kit (of some sort) sometime back and while I have not given the other items within a shot, I sifted this one out and am absolutely in love with it.

The Clarins Tonic Body Treatment Oil is an all-in-one moisturizing and also skin-toning body oil.

Body oils, as the name suggests, are oils and may prove to be a more nourishing form of hydration for the skin. Oils may not be everyone's cup of tea as they do leave a lingering feeling on your skin as compared to some lotions.

Though for my perpetually parched eczema-prone skin, I welcome anything nourishing, hydrating or rich, especially for night-use.

Night-use is exactly what I would classify the Clarins Tonic Body Treatment as due to its richer oil texture and the more apparent film it leaves on the skin after massaging most of the goodness in. Though with that said, the body oil has a silky and liquid consistency which makes it easy to work with and for the most part, easily absorbed.

The slightly richer texture makes it good to use for a mini-massage session (along with the accompanying awesome scent).

In fact, the instructions for use do suggest to massage it from the ankle, upwards if you are working on your legs. When in the mood, I do the whole massage works but otherwise I would just give this a good rub all over.

I wouldn't classify this as a heavy oil because compared to some other variants I have tried, this has a considerably lighter 'lingering' feel on the skin. Yet it doesn't quite fall into the light-weight category either due to the richer nature of it.

The scent of this is absolutely divine — pleasantly soft florals but in a rather spa-like and soothing manner. If anything, the scent really does it for me and is probably what leaves me this smittened with it.

I don't use this daily but I like to indulge in it now and then as it leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth and well nourished through the drying air conditioned nights.

One pet peeve with this would be the packaging.

The one I have is not the retail size but the issue faced is the same, apparently. This glass bottle opens to expose the full 'opening', without a stopper or nozzle to restrict the dispensed amount. Due to that it could be tricky getting the right amount out, especially juggling the glass and fragile aspect. That aside, I really have no qualms with this!

The Tonic Body Treatment Oil is apparently a miracle worker for ridding stretch marks and also toning the skin by tightening and firming it.

I don't use this often enough for the tightening, firming and stretch marks ridding effect to be noticeable but I do find my skin temporarily firmer after use though that goes away since I am not religious with this.

While I rotate other body moisturizers be it lotions or oils, I do love having this in my stash for occasions when I want to pamper my skin and my senses.

I would definitely recommend this if you are into body oils or on the look out to treat your senses with a nourishing body oil.

Sophia (Makeup Blogette) had also given this bottle of goodness in her recent Shower Essentials entry.

Have you tried this? Do you like it?

Thanks for reading!

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