Annie's Way Mint Cooling Mask

Hello, hello!

I hope everyone's doing fine because yes, I am doing fine and it's just that I've been busy catching up with friends in KL since I will be leaving this place for good - really soon. A part of me is heavy-hearted while there is a part of me that really wants to leave.

Talking about torn in between, aye?

All these thoughts really get to me really bad and soon, I began to notice bumps, pimples, acnes and whatever you call them. I do know Benzoyl Peroxide works for pimples and acnes but I don't want to risk my skin getting dry. Yes, I do know products with Benzoyl Peroxide is only meant for the pimple or acne and NOT for the whole face. Some more, it is so difficult to find skincare with peppermint fragrance to it. I simply adore peppermint. So, the other day, when I first visited Mask Slim outlet in Sunway Pyramid, I was excited when I saw they have peppermint mask!

It's called Annie's Way Mint Cooling Mask - it mainly targets acne prone skin and soothes while moisturizes the skin.

I thought to myself that for the longest time, I have been trying to find peppermint masks but somehow, I couldn't... I am quite particular about masks because I don't like leave-on or wash-off mask. It was really a joy when I saw Annie's Way has it in Mask Slim.

Basically, the packaging of the masks from Annie's Way is really, really simple. They come in pastel pink, green, blue gold, white and silver? It may not look that cute but as long as it works, I guess I am gonna like it.

Once opened, I could almost smell the infusion of minty herbal fragrance! Love, love, love it so, so much! The mask comes with a protective film.

The mask itself is made of very thin and smooth material. It is certainly not like the mask material from My Beauty Diary or other brands.

Personally, I think the absorption is really fast due to the material because within 15 minutes, I could see the mask drying up. To maximize the effect of the essence, I leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes. Usually, when I use other masks from other brands, I don't really see them drying up so soon.

As far as the essence goes, well, I kind of slap on every bit of it every time I use this mask because I like the cooling sensation a lot.

My thoughts... I love this mask because of the minty fragrance.

I do notice the mask actually does refresh my skin and it controls sebum production at least for 24 hours. Furthermore, I think I get less acnes and pimples nowadays after using this mask every weekly.

Well, it works!

Oh, if you're interested, you can pick up this mask at Mask Slim outlets for RM5 per piece.

My mask collection

Okay, let's just say when it comes to skin care, I am kinda lazy... Yeah, I know the fact that I am ageing but still, there is still this little tinge of laziness that stops me from giving my skin extra love. In the past, I used to use mask once every month or if I am not lazy, maybe twice a month or in the worst case, well... I totally don't use masks at all for 2 to 3 months. That's my level of laziness for your information.

Ever since I started working in an environment where I was exposed to the beauty of skin care, I have incorporated the use of facial masks into my daily skin care regime.

The whole mask thingy is quite addictive actually.

I know there are people who go like, "You shouldn't use mask everyday because it will strain your skin with too much nourishment and causes breakouts."

Honestly, I have yet to experience breakouts from using facial masks everyday for the past one month. Therefore, my answer to the above statement is, "It depends on your skin and also if you can afford using mask everyday. If you can afford, why not?"

I don't mean to show off but... my mask collection is kinda scary...

There you go... part of the facial masks that I own. Did I tell you not that it is addictive?

I was over the moon the other day when I got a package from Jo and guess what? More masks!

OMG... I am so in love with my girl friend - best girl friend ever, ever, ever, throughout the whole universe!

Lemme share with you some of the masks that I love!

I don't mean to be expert but this is purely based on my preference since I have tried out a lot of facial masks from different brands out there and well... just like any typical person, I have my hits and misses.

When it comes to masks, I always prefer Korean masks over Taiwanese masks - I don't know why. I used to like My Beauty Diary so much but ever since I tried out Korean masks, I've been hooked... let's cross our fingers and hope it is not for life. LOLX!

One of the biggest manufacturers of facial masks in Korea, iM1NE is here to stay. Hopefully they would be able to find sole distributor within Malaysia and then on, these masks would be available easily.

I couldn't stress enough how wonderful these masks are.

No, I am not paid to write about this although the masks are gifts from my ex-boss. The whole set for a month usage costs about RM40. Well, worth it, right?

If you're wondering why there are small letter printed on the top right side of the packaging - these masks are known as the step-by-step masks.

What you do is - just follow the steps printed on the packaging. These masks promise a more radiant complexion with healthy glow in 15 days but I would say, it depends on your skin.

I really love the texture of the masks!

My next favourite would be the VOV Daily Clinis masks.

It has four functions in one - the retail price for each piece is RM9. I know it's quite expensive but believe me, there are more expensive masks out there!

Next in line is one of the Taiwanese masks. No, it's not from My Beauty Diary but it is from Annie's Way.

It is the Annie's Way Anti Allergy masks in pink packaging - these masks are awesome! The quality is better than My Beauty Diary and best of all, it retails for RM5 to RM7 depending on the functions of the masks.

Vanedo Masks are from Korea and I do like it but not as much as the others.

Where to get these masks - Mask Slim outlets at SS2, Sg. Wang, Times Square, Sunway Pyramid and well... I think they have other outlets elsewhere.

If you are familiar with VOV, do get your hands on these VOV Daily Fresh Masks!

One of the best masks available in the market! The masks actually cover the eye area too so, you're basically killing two birds with one stone. The retail price - RM7.70 per piece. They have more than 10 types for you to choose from. Even the packaging is so pretty and fancy!

Where to get these masks? Easy - go to The Sops Seoul outlets that are located in Publika, Carrefour Midvalley, Stardust Studio Fahrenheit and Lovely Korea Beauty Premium KL Festival City.

Okay, now, it's time for one of the expensive masks - SKII!

This mask retails for RM50 per piece at SKII counters and at Sephora, Malaysia.

I'm not sure how this mask fares because I have yet to use it - I wanna save it for special day or occasion so, I'll just leave it aside first. No, Chinese New Year is no special occasion  hence I am not gonna waste this expensive mask.

Alright, I think that is all for now.

Do share the stories of your favourite masks!

Skincare and make-up regime

I don't really blog about my skincare regime or routine because I believe each and everyone of us has different skin types. Courtesy of an old buddy of mine, I've decided to do this entry.

Mine tend to be a little dry on my cheeks whereas my T-zone is quite oily. I guess I can safely say I have combination to oily skin.

After attending several talks and introductions by Esther of Lancôme, I've learned quite a number of things when it comes to skincare. So, after a while, I've been practising the regimes as being instructed for more than a year now. After which I have done so, I do notice nowadays my breakouts are really close to zero even when it is that time of the month. 

Anyway, I'm gonna share with you, my skincare routine in a particular order.

Before that, please do not quote me or Esther because everyone's skin is different. What works for me may not works for you. So, do your research and find out what is best for your skin!

1. Cleanser

When it comes to cleansing, I don't have a specific cleanser that I like because for me, any products that make me feel clean without the tightness sensation, that's it. I'll use it!

Personally, I alternate between two cleansers. I'll use my Bioré Marshmallow Whip Facial Wash in the morning while at night, I'll be using my Clinique Liquid Facial Wash for Oily Combination Skin. Well, no particular reason because I just feel like I need cleanser with extra strength at night since I am out in the morning and my skin is exceptionally dirty when the day ends.

2. Toner

I'm sure everyone knows this step, right?

Again, I have no preference when it comes to toner. I like toners with astringents because the aftermath of using these toners - refreshing! My favourite toners are from Eskinol and also Lancôme Hydrazen Neocalm Gel Toner.

3. Eye cream or eye serum

I think I am a little anal when it comes to eye creams or serums for the eyes. I have terrible dark circles and well, a little sign of crow feet. When I search for eye creams, my main concern is anti-ageing and anti dark circles.

I'm pretty sure you all know what eye cream application should be done using our ring finger since it is the weakest finger and while you are applying, try massaging your eyes too. It helps the blood circulation!

My favourite eye cream so far - Lancôme Génefique Youth Activating Eye Concentrate, Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Recovery Complex and also Simple Regeneration Age Resisting Eye Cream. The eye cream from Simple doesn't really work but hey, it feels good upon application.

4. Serum

This is my favourite part - serums!

Hey, I love the watery feel when the serums touch my skin! Yeah, any serum! Need I say more? You need serum, yes, your skin needs it to boost or enhance it's current condition! This includes to repair and regenerate!

My favourite serums are Lancôme [LR 2412 4%] Advanced Skin Corrector and as far as oil-control goes, Clinique Pore Minimizer Refining Serum.

5. Moisturiser

I am not exaggerating but moisturiser is very important. If you get the wrong moisturiser, well, girl, either you'll end up looking like you can fry an egg on your face or well... have you seen how dry skin peels off? 

Talk to those BCs at the counters or get a skin analysis like I did!

My favourite moisturisers are Sasatinnie Green Apple Refreshing Aqua Gel. I have been using this for quite some time now well... partly because I don't have the budget to get any high end brands. 

6. Sunblock

As much as our body needs sun protection especially if we're going to the beach or walking under the sun, our face needs sunblock to ward off those dangerous UV reflections.

If you don't know yet, without sun block, our skin is prone to pigmentation and formation of dark spots due to those UV rays.

So, girls, stock up on those sunblocks!

Don't worry about if your skin is oily or whatsoever. I'm sure there is one product out there that is suitable for you.

Mine is Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Jelly Water Base SPF30PA++ just because it doesn't feel oily and upon application, it actually feels good!

7. Mask

Once a while, I will give my skin a good treat by applying mask, be it facial or eye sheet mask or sleeping mask. Any mask is good!

Well, if your tummy needs a treat, your skin does too!

My favourite masks are from My Beauty Diary.

8. Scrub

Scrub for me is like a weekly thing.

If I am feeling great, I will scrub my skin like, twice a week and if I am feeling lazy, perhaps, once a week. Scrubs are good because you need to exfoliate to remove those dead skin for better moisturiser and serum absorption.

My favourite scrub is St. Ives Apricot Scrub.

Yeah, I guess that's it about my skincare regime but if I am applying make-up that day, most probably, there are few other steps. Oh, I'll just be doing my face or foundation routine. No eye make-up included.

Okay, I'll share with you.

9. Make-up Primer

This step is to even out your skin texture and to fill up your pores. Except for that, it'll also make the foundation or BB cream to last longer without having it melting off halfway during the day.

Oops, I do have quite a lot of favourite face primers. Hahaha... That is the reason why I am broke. Okay, here's the list - Monistat Chafing Relief Gel and Benefit Porefessional.

10. Foundation or BB cream

I am not so much of a BB cream person but I use foundation most of the times. I don't do well with powder foundation so, I am better off with liquid foundation.

I do have my favourite foundations and also, BB cream though.

My favourite foundations are Stage Picture Perfect Foundation, Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra and also Maybelline Clear Smooth BB Cream.

11. Concealer

I'm sure all you make-up geeks out there are aware of the colour wheel when it comes to combating your skin's imperfections, right?

Well, you need the right colour to conceal those scars, blemishes and uneven skintone.

There are a lot of concealers with different formulas from different brands out there. How do you know it works? Well, go and torture those BCs with a lot of questions, I'm sure you'll get what you want. Haha.

My favourite concealers are Stage Picture Perfect Liquid Camouflage, Stage Photo Pro Creme Camouflage and Maybelline Angel Fit Concealer.

12. Loose powder

After applying foundation or BB cream and concealer, the final step is to apply your loose powder over it to set your foundation or BB cream.

This step is good to ensure your foundation stays longer and to avoid formation of fine lines.

My favourite loose powders so far are Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Talc Free Mineral Loose Powder and Clinique Face Powder.

13. Setting spray

 Finally, the last step in my make-up routine!

This is not a must but if you want to avoid cakey face, well, you have to do it. After all the make-up, including eyes, cheeks and everything is done, just apply the setting spray to fix everything!

My favourite sprays are from Nature Republic Cooling Mist and also Urban Decay All Nighter.

So, there you go, all set and done!

Even if you're feeling too lazy to apply eye make-up or whatsoever, you can walk right out of your door looking all good!

What is your skin routine or regime?

Etude House Moistfull Massage Mask

I am not a big fan of sleeping mask or whatsoever product that you need to apply before heading to bed because I know for sure, the product will stain my pillows as you know, yours truly has really bad sleeping posture.

Enough say.

When I first heard a close friend of mine raved about Laneige Water Sleeping Pack, I was curious how this sleeping mask thingy actually works.


I wasn't even aware of this brand at the time when it first entered Malaysian market but when that friend of mine purchase the whole line of strawberry yogurt skincare line, I did not even bother to try it out. She told me how amazing all those products were back then and her sister who used the Water Sleeping Pack told her that it was really good.

Well... typical me back then - one ear in, another ear out.

As age catches up with me, I've decided to indulge a bit in my skincare since I see fine crowfeet and also wrinkles already nowadays.

Like I've mentioned, I am not a big fan of sleeping masks or packs or yada, yada, yada but at the time when I visited Etude House, they were having promotion for this sleeping mask cum massage cum pack. LOLX... Basically, it's a product with 3 different usages - how amazing can it get, right?


Well... lemme just list down the directions of usages for this product just in case any of you are interested in it.

For massage - apply gel to face, massage for 2 to 3 minutes and rinse off with warm water.

For pack - apply ample layer to face, leave on for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse off with warm water.

For overnight mask - apply ample layer to face, leave on overnight and rinse off.

So, that is the information that you'll find on the packaging.

My first impression on this mask was actually very predictable. I was drawn to it by the fresh floral smell of the product. You guys know how anal I am about smells. Even if a product works wonder and it smells horrible, it's less likely I will repurchase it unless it's something like overnight magic, then I may consider.


Anyway, the other reason that drawn me to purchase this product was because at the point of time when I purchased it, I was facing problem with flaking skin due to dehydration. I figured out since I was already facing problems with open pores and oily skin, it was less likely I was going to add another skincare product into my list.

Hence, the best way was to get something like sleeping mask. Coincidentally, Etude House was having promotion, so, I got the massage mask at RM19.90 only.

The texture of this product is something like gel. It doesn't feel runny and actually it was quite difficult to scoop up the product since the gel feels quite solid.

You don't really need a thick layer of product when you are applying because it does feel heavy upon application.

Another reason that made me purchased it was because - hey, this product was HUMONGOUSLY huge! No kidding, okay?! RM19.90 only for 180ml and no jokes - it can last you for at least half year even with daily application!!!

Remember? You don't need to apply a lot of product because a little goes a long way? So, normally, I only need the amount below for my whole face and neck as overnight mask.


I don't really fancy using this stuff as pack and massage purposes because normally after cleansing my skin, I don't like any other stuffs except for toner, serum, essence, eyecream and moisturizer to touch my face. I even hate it more if I need to cleanse my face for twice in a night because it'll strip off all the moisture!

Thus, to lock down the moisture, I use it as sleeping mask. The picture below is when the gel is being applied.


Upon application, I am not gonna lie - I didn't like it in the first place because it felt sticky - very, very sticky. I figured out it could be due to the fact that I've applied too much of the product. So, on my second try, I applied less and it still felt sticky.

So, after a while, I came to term with the stickiness of the product because I am loving the fresh floral smell.

The absorption is a little slow, probably it'll take like 10 to 15 minutes for the product to be absorbed by your skin and another 5 to 10 minutes for the stickiness to reduce.

~ I am definitely NOT naked ~

I was just comparing the size of the product to the size of my face. LOLX!

Well... honestly, after using it for the past 3 months, I can finally conclude that this is a product that you can really just forego. You don't really need it in my opinion because, well... it does nothing to my skin and booooo... I don't feel the moisturizing effect that the product promises and yeah, no improvement.

The thing I dislike about this product is - no scoop is given and yes, you've to dig the product using your fingers and it's NOT hygienic considering the product comes in HUGE amount that you're less likely gonna finish up in a month or so and the more you dig, the product will be more prone to be exposed to bacteria.

I don't hate it but it's just something you may want to skip if you're on tight budget because there are other products in the market that'll work better for you.

For me, I use it for the sake of using it. I mean, you have it, use it, that's all.

Pros
Affordable if you were to compare this to Laneige Sleeping Pack - a lot more product. Nice fresh floral smell that comes in pink packaging and pink gel content. Thick, so a little goes a long way.

ConsUnhygienic - please provide a scoop or change the packaging. Doesn't really provide any UUMPPH outcome upon usage. Product absorption is SLOW and it feels sticky and will remain sticky for quite some time.

Not to say I am dissapointed because I got it for RM19.90 at the time of promotion, so, yeah, I will still continue to use this product but God knows how long I'd need to finish it up. Let's cross our fingers and hope I don't dump this product away.

Price - RM39.90
Product - 2 out of 5
Packaging - 1 out of 5
Availability - Etude House
Re-purchase - No

Have a great working week, people!