The SkinDeep program was hosted by OLAY Ambassador Daphne Oseña, who eased the audience into a no-nonsense talk on laser treatments, anti-aging and what the Regenerist line offers. Leading dermatologists Dr. Ma. Pia Lagdameo-Leuenbeger and Clarissa Villarama-Cellona, MD, FPDS helped point out differences (aging process) on skin of women in their 20s, 30s and 40s, and answered questions on anti-aging treatment options like the laser treatment.

P&G Beauty Skin Care Scientist David Khoo, M.Sc. took the stage to talk about the science behind the OLAY Regenerist line, highlighting the two (2) amino peptides present in the skincare line, KTTKS and Carnosine. He managed to educate the audience on an otherwise complex science in under 10 minutes. This beats the video tele-conference I attended with select media last month, wherein David introduced and patiently explained the science behind Regenerist and not to mention patiently answering all our questions.

Other OLAY Ambassadors Miriam Quiambao and Isabelle Diaz-Daza (not in photo) also made an appearance to talk about the brand that they all love and re-cap what had happened during the OLAY Regenerist Pre-Sale Event.

Of course, the night won’t be complete without the unveiling of the latest OLAY Ambassador, specific to the Regenerist line, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzales. 41-year old Tweetie is one of the select few who had first tried the Regenerist line here in Manila and have seen its benefits, hence, her taking on the role as an OLAY Ambassador.

After over a month (close to 2 actually!) of blogging about the arrival of OLAY Regenerist here in Manila, I can finally cap things off with the launch event re-cap. While others are just starting to enjoy Regenerist (either the complete set that came with the invite or the serum + cleanser they got as an event freebie), you can actually read the reviews I’ve done on the Regenerist line. The sooner you learn more about the skincare line, the sooner you can try them out yourself, yes? Here are the quick links to the reviews:

OLAY Regenerist Regenerating Serum
Day Cream: Olay Regenerist Regenerating Cream (Perfecting Cream)
Eastern Experiments: OLAY Regenerist Eye-Lifting Serum

I reckon these three (3) products are key to the Regenerist line, esp the Regenerating Serum and Eye-Lifting Serum.

More photos on the event can be found at Style Manila.

Images: P&G Beauty | CaPRI

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Yes, I keep forgetting to buy one. *kicks herself*

But perhaps it’s a good thing cuz look at what I tripped on — Limited Edition High Performance Balancing Cleansing Oil (Advance Formula), something new from Shu Uemura.

Evolved from the original shu uemura cleansing oil, “Classic” is reformulated with an advanced High Performance Cleansing Oil system for significantly improved removability of waterproof make-up. Two-in-one cleanser and make-up remover helps maintain the skin’s integral balance by removing impurities without stripping the skin of its essential moisture. Camellia Oil protects and rejuvenates the skin while Ginger Root Oil contains anti-oxidant properties that support the fight against skin damage.

2nd gen of the cleansing oils from the Asian beauty brand Shu Uemura. Exclusivity oozes from the packaging as the limited edition bottle is adorned with Uemura’s calligraphy. Promises a more effective removal of makeup, esp the waterproof kind. Contains ingredients that will help rejuvenate and protect the skin as it removes makeup from and cleanses the skin. It’s suitable for all skin types.

Damage: $62 (!!!) Gasp.

I’ll start counting my dimes and pennies now. Sigh.

Image: shuuemura-usa.com

Post from: eBeautyDaily

Photo© 2008 Sasha Manuel

OLAY White Radiance Foaming Cleanser
All skin types

Refreshing deep cleansing action; washes away oil, dirt, and makeup that makes the skin look dark and dull.

Surprisingly, I’ve managed to finish ALL my facial wash tubes. I had been alternately using the Nivea Visage Refreshing Water Cleansing Gel and the Céleteque Facial Wash. The only one left is the RevaléSkin Facial Cleanser. Good thing that my schedule today had allowed a bit of shopping, grabbed a new product to try out. It’s the OLAY White Radiance Foaming Cleanser.

I’ve got to admit I’m a bit excited to use this facial wash. My mum is a huge fan of the brand. I’ve been wracking my brain; trying to remember if I’ve ever tried using any of their creams. None comes to mind, though. I am, however, aware of their reputation in terms of producing quality skincare products, particularly moisturisers and creams. I was only able to try a couple of their bath products: Olay Body In-Shower Body Lotion and the Olay Body Ultra Moisture Soap with Shea Butter. I’m actually curious about their Total Effects line but, well, we’ll see if I’ll manage to bring myself to give them a go. you’ll definitely hear read about it.

Anyway, I digress.

The non-glossy packaging is not novel but definitely worth appreciating. The over-all look ties the whole message of the line. Good branding, I must say. It has that fresh, clean look. Very elegant. Nevermind the cool light green they threw in. Yea, I’d prefer a different colour but they’ve got their reasons, right?

What else is there to expect from a facial wash? What will set this product apart from all the others that I’ve used and reviewed? I reckon I’ll find out soon. But here are a few points where I’ll be focusing on:

1. Adaptability and compatibility of the formula. At the risk of sounding technical, I do appreciate a product’s effectiveness. Will it really cleanse my skin the way it said it would? Will it perform regardless of the skin’s state? Will it be consistent? Will it clog my pores? Will it cause my skin to break out?

2. Lasting effects. I can’t help but wonder if it will simply offer a creamy facial wash experience, which will mask the true state of the skin. How long will it take till I’d feel the need to wash my face again? Is the feeling of softness only momentary? How long will the “white radiance” on my skin last?

3. Usage. Usually you can read instructions at the back in terms of usage but sometimes, you end up using more of the product in order to get the “clean” feeling. Will it be easy to rinse off?

4. Over-all experience. It’s normal to consider the effectiveness of the product, i.e. will it leave my skin soft and supple? Are there nutrients that will help achieve a healthier skin? It is, after all, the main point of buying one. But I’m also looking for convenience and practicality, i.e. is it easy to massage onto the skin? Are there side effects? Did the tube dispenser properly allow me to control the amount I’d want to use? Is it travel-friendly?

5. Value for money. Of course, I would only be able to determine this with finality when I’ve tested the product for a period of time. Will it be worth all the money I spent on it? Can it be considered affordable?

With these things in mind, I know using this product will not be your typical beauty routine. BUT I’m not going to forget to try and enjoy it all the same. I love washing my face anyway. I’m simply hoping that OLAY can add onto the already pleasant experience.

Meanwhile, what about you guys? How do you choose a facial wash to buy and use? What are the things that you think about in choosing to stay with a product? What are the important considerations for you to say it’s a good buy?

Also, have any of you tried this product? Any thoughts?

Post from: eBeautyDaily

Photo© 2008 Sasha Manuel

This wasn’t the first time I brought the RevaléSkin Skincare System with me to the beach. I find them a good companion in caring for my skin. I guess I see the time I spend on the beach as an opportunity to relax — do some hardcore skincare rituals — a way to detoxify and stuff. After all, I’m far from the usual dirt and pollution of the city, might as well make full use of the break to let my skin re-charge, so to speak.

I brought with me the entire RevaléSkin set which includes the Facial Cleanser (middle), Night Cream (left), and Day Cream (right).

This reminds me, I haven’t written the full review on RevaléSkin just yet. I guess I’ve got a few more notes to finalise before I do. I’m still waiting on using the Day Cream more often. I have to admit, it’s only the Facial Cleanser that I’ve been able to use more regularly and as for the Night Cream, I’m only able to use it when I’m not too tired or too caught up with work. I’m still jotting down notes. I promise to work on publishing the review soon.

Post from: eBeautyDaily

NIVEA VISAGE
Refreshing Water Cleansing Gel

NIVEA VISAGE Refreshing Water Cleansing Gel with innovative HydroBalance-System provides normal and mixed skin with gentle cleansing and purifying care without drying. (Source: NIVEA)

• Selectively removes dirt and excess sebum while it respects skin’s own lipids.
• Enriched with specially selected moisturisers, it gently removes sebum and other skin impurities.

I’ve slightly been having problems with my skin breaking out lately. Nothing too serious, most are easily repairable but I’m not used to it. I don’t breakout this easily. This brings me to wonder if any of the products I’ve been using are suspect. First on the list is my current facial wash. I even thought that I’ve been exfoliating too much hence my dry rough skin along the jawline. I actually bought the one without the microbeads to give my skin a bit of a break. Just to be clear, though, it’s not that I’m not satisfied with Neutrogena cuz I am. I’m happy with how the product fares during washing. The beads actually helps exfoliate (unlike some facial scrubs I’ve used in the past) and not merely an illusion of it.

Going back. I decided to switch to a different facial wash for a bit, just to check if it is the facial wash’s fault or something else. It’s just a process of elimintation, is what I’m I’m doing. Heh.

At face value, I’m quite excited to try out this Cool Refreshing Water Cleansing Gel from Nivea Visage. I absolutely love the packaging. It does make me think it IS cool and refreshing. And the blue gel does remind me of water, which also triggers thoughts of skin hydration.

Suggested Application:
Apply mornings and evenings, a little amount of the Cleansing Gel on your moist face.
Massage gently in small upward circles and rinse off with lukewarm water.
Finally, apply your usual toner then your Day or Night product.

The mention of the “massage gently in small upward circles” bit reminded me of the Double Cleansing Face Care tip I featured here last year. I reckon it really does help to set a particular way of cleaning the face. More effective, it seems.

Scent-wise, it’s subdued. It’s not overpowering to the point that it’ll make you think that you’re washing your face with perfume. But, yea, it does have a scent, a bit Talc-ish and smells clean.

Fine print: Skin compatibility dermatologically tested.

It says on the front that it’s soap-free and it’s for normal to combination skin. This is good since I have a combination skin. Hehe.

Anyway, I’m looking forward to giving this product a go. I’ll post the full review as soon as testing’s over. Gawd. With all the products I have on my review queue, I’m worried that my skin will soon wrinkle up like a prune. Ack. I reckon I shouldn’t have went on a beauty shopping spree. Argh.

Photo© 2008 Sasha Manuel

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Think baby wipes but used to clean and refresh facial skin. I came across this product during my last minute shopping for my trip (I’m back in Manila btw). I reckon it’ll prove to be a handy thing for travels esp something like what I just had.

A couple of things I expected were issues on time constraints and mobility. I still had hygienic needs esp my face. Will I have time to dash off to a powder room to freshen up? Would it be too bulky to bring soap and a towel while I walk around? What about the long bus ride I was planning to take? These things I had consider. I had to choose between thorough cleansing or something I make do with while on the move.

This Green Tea Invigorating Facial Cleanser from a local brand bench/ provided a certain amount of comfort in terms of immediate needs. It’s very travel friendly cuz of its size (you can easily shove it in your pocket), resealable pack and economical use. I can’t guarantee that it does nourish the skin — it says it has Vitamins E & C — but it is refreshing. This facial cleanser can remove makeup and dirt.

I got this feeling that I was using an astringent of some sort but somehow I also felt that it’s too gentle to be one. It didn’t make my skin feel “stretched” if you know what I mean. It didn’t dry up my skin either, which was great!

I still prefer facial foams but if you need something to bring with you that can do the job quickly, this one ought to be a good option. It’s very affordable, only Php 12.00. I bought mine at First Aid in Greenbelt.

Photo© 2008 Sasha Manuel

Post from: eBeautyDaily

This foaming facial cleanser works into a rich lather that deeply cleans and moisturizes your skin. Gently cleanses tired, stressed skin and leaves your face refreshed and hydrated.

I’ve been using this facial foam for weeks now. Actually, I use two different foams, one is for exfoliation purposes from Pond’s (which I’ll probably tell you guys about in a later post) and this one from Dove, which mainly addresses my need to moisturise, and hydrate my skin. I reckon I already mentioned just how frequent I wash my face in a day. With the rate I’m going, I don’t want to scrub my skin too much with the other facial scrub that’s why I opt to have one that doesn’t have the beads in it.

I’m a Dove user. I have their exfoliating beauty bars and shower creams plus I also have their moisturising cream bars on top of the facial foam. I’m sort of used to using the bars so the idea of trying out their facial foam was a given. I wasn’t disappointed.

This foaming facial cleanser is said to contain pure cucumber extract, calming green tea, moisturizing cream (it moisturizes your skin as you cleanse), gentle formula with vitamins A & E, minerals and anti-oxidants (leaving you with healthy glowing skin). It’s also Hypo-allergenic and non-comedogenic, which is suitable to sensitive skin.

Green Tea is said to aid in neutralizing the spread of free radicals (source), on top of its soothing effect and the use of extracts like the Cucumber normally means it allows its nutrition to be absorbed by the skin. The presence of the moisturising cream is vital to the prevention of the skin drying out.

To be quite frank, it truly does feel like I’m moisturising my skin while washing. I love the fresh and calm feeling it leaves on me and my skin.

Bento Beauty Tip: Daily use of exfoliating facial cleansers are alright, keep the frequency to once a day. Use moisturising and hydrating facial cleansers for other washes.

Available at AmericaRX.com

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A silky, smooth cleanser that effortlessly melts away makeup while toning the skin, reviving the eyelid area and conditioning the eyelashes in the process. A glowing, bright and clear complexion in one simple step!

After the Bento Beauty Project wherein I talked about putting on makeup, we’ll now talk a bit about post-makeup regimen. Yes. Removing the beautiful makeup you’ve laboured to put on. Hehe.

Of course, as much as the next person, I’m a bit of a lazy lady when it comes to removing makeup. I know, I know. Another bad habit. I do make it a point to wash my face now even when I come home dead tired from events I have to go to. Sigh.

Here’s a secret.

I have yet to find a fabulous makeup remover to accompany my facial wash — I’m even open to switching foams should the need arises — but I still believe I need to find the remover. I’ve vowed to stay away from astringents, though effective, I just feel that it abuses my skin. Sigh.

Even when I’ve found the perks of using mineral makeup to assure me that I won’t wake up with raccoon eyes, I still need to make sure that I’ve fully removed the makeup, esp around the eyes (where I usually concentrate on). I find that they’re the hardest to remove, don’t you? I usually end up foaming twice, which then makes my skin prone to dryness. A bit of a dilemma I’ve got there, yeah?

So, here’s a product that promises to “melt away” the makeup plus toning and conditioning eyelid and lashes. Hmmm. Worth a look, don’t you agree? Soy is native of Eastern Asia, more popular as food but is slowly being used — soybean oil, in particular — in soaps or in cosmetics. I reckon it maximises the protein rich component (source of essential amino acids) that the human body needs.

Quick tip: Be informed if you are allergic to soy before proceeding to use products similar to this one.

Available at Sephora

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