December 29, 2014

Missha Super Aqua Skin Fresh Refreshing Cleansing Foam Review


This is one of my Christmas shopping items I bought from Missha at SM Cebu the price was too much and I feel like Missha PH is overpriced here is in the Philippines.


I ordered mine from a re-seller at less than P500 only. Because I can’t wait for my order that is scheduled to be delivered this coming January, I still bought it. :) (I’m pretty impulsive when it comes to favorites)

I have been using this for more than 2 months now. I started with their trial pack first that I got from ordering a BB Cream on Missha Ph Facebook page. I realize that it was so nice on my skin, I then bought the travel size from Lazada which lasted me for a month too. I am still in love with it until now.

Before starting this product, I was using a PB soap from my dermatologist which I feel it doesn’t thoroughly cleans my face. Since the trial pack was just sitting on my closet for like 9 months. (Yeah, it was just there for that long) I decided to incorporate it with my cleansing care. And man... I feel in love at first use!

Missha US describe “Super Aqua gives your skin radiance with a help from three revitalized water from nature. 

Containing Sweet Flag Extract and Willow Bark Extract which gives a massage effect with its minute and rich bubbles, Super Aqua cleansing foam gently and completely removes makeup and impurities.

I don’t use make-up every day so on my normal routine I cleanse my face with PB soap and then Super Aqua Cleansing foam. I didn’t had major breakouts while starting on this method so I guess it is fine but of course when I use make up even just a light one, I always use a make-up remover then continue on my cleansing method.

The tube is blue but the product inside is in white color. I use only a small amount and gently massage it on my face for 2-3 minutes and rinse with tap water. In a while, it will create a rich bubbles which is really relaxing while you gently massage it on your face. The instructions is that you rinse it with a lukewarm water but I prefer tepid water as it is more accessible. We don’t have a heater available for our faucets. :D

What I love using this product is that it doesn’t leave a harsh or dry feeling after washing. It doesn’t strip off the moisture out of your skin and you can feel it soft and a bit squeaky. (> is this the right term?) It’s really refreshing when I use it. The scent is not too strong compared to Super Aqua toner and emulsion has. It’s doesn’t hurt my nose if I accidentally breath in some of it compared to other products. But it really hurts my eyes if it gets there. Also, you don’t need too much product to create a lather and cleanse your face. So I think the 200 ml tube will go a loooooong way.

Buying again? Yes, of course. I still have 1 tube on my closet. How about you?

Update: 07-24-15

The product really last long so its worth every penny. 1 tube lasted for about 7-9 months. But I was not able to consume all in my first tube coz I left it Cebu during my recent travel. Overall, I love Missha's Super Aqua Skin Fresh Refreshing Cleansing Foam.

December 13, 2014

My Korean Skin Care Haul (December)

This is actually my first Korean skin care haul like buying all kinds of stuff to try on.

No it's not, this is not my first time buying a Korean skin care. I started with BB creams then mask sheets etc but only 1 product at a time because they're too expensive here in the Philippines. This time I got so impulsive and felt so excited finding someone selling online for a lower price than buying at a mall. I ended up hauling products.

On my bag:



1. Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner: Sensitive
2. Nature Republic Botanical Tint Mousse SPF15 (Coral and Strawberry)
3. The Faceshop Clean Face Oil Control BB Cream
4. The Faceshop Clean Face Spot Corrector

The Kerasys Shampoo and Bar Soap was a freebie from my friendly seller. And also the samplers I got from him as gift too. Thanks so much!

I have waited for like a more than a month to get my hands on these products and I am so excited to start using them all. The first to try on my list is the Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner: Sensitive since my Missha Toner is almost running out. I just can't wait to try it.

My second bag for next month's order will be a Missha filled haul. I am also uber excited for that. :))

And that doesn't end here yet for this month. When I went to Cebu for a short Christmas holiday, I also did some shopping at Etude House and Missha. I just can't resist the urge to shop every time I pass by their store. (Hello Princess!)

Korean Haul


On my Etude House bag:

1. Milky You Cleansing Milk
2. AC Clinic Intense Red Spot Balm with Cleansing Foam
3. AC Clinic Extractor
4.Tea Tree Mask Sheet
5. Pearl Mask Sheet
6. Bright Eyes Patch
7. Don't Worry Happy Change Lip Balm

Plus I got a Wonder Pore toner and lip tint samplers as a freebie. Also got a Pink Card membership. I actually like their pink card. I think this is actually granted to customers for free when your purchase reach their required amount. The pink card is actually a rewards program for Etude House PH princesses wherein when you shop at a minimum of 100, you will get a rebate of 2%. When your points accumulate, you can use it to purchase at Etude House PH stores nationwide. Plus the design is so lovely and elegant.

Then I passed by Missha kiosk and actually bought the full size Missha Super Aqua Cleansing Foam which is very expensive compared to buying online. But of course you don't have to wait for a month to get your item, if you really need the product and don't mind paying the price. Who cares right? Had no choice but to buy it actually coz my travel size is almost empty and it wouldn't last until January I think.The full size is actually really huge and would last for months on me.

Missha Super Aqua Cleansing Foam

I also got these Papaya soap from Yanhee, Thailand. These are not Korean but I just want to include them though. I ordered them at 120 each tub from my college friend who is now working in Thailand. I can't wait to try them too. :)

Yanhee Papaya Soap

And lastly some Nature Republic products from Lazada, the Water Tint #02 and Aloe Vera soothing gel.

Nature Republic and Water Tint #02 and Aloe Vera Soothing Gel

I ended up broke going home... Hahaha. Retail therapy doesn't always help. But I was enjoying it. Just can't wait to try them all...



December 11, 2014

Missha Super Aqua Skin Fresh Hydrating Toner and Emulsion Review

As I was panicking the last time where I can get the Missha Near Skin Firming Peptide, I ended up buying the Missha Super Aqua Skin Fresh Travel set at Lazada and got for Php 664.05.

Just so you don't know, I live in a province where you can see are sari-sari store only. That is why I panic if I run out of anything that I need because I can't easily purchase them right there and then compared to if you are living in the city. My only access are the online shops which I have to deal with shipping, hefty price and sometimes if it's pre-order, you got to wait a month to get it.

As far as I know, toner and emulsion are the basic skin care for lazy girls and those who are just starting up with Korean Skin Care like me. So I am reviewing them together.

The travel kits are in thick plastic bottles. I dropped the emulsion once and it didn't break so I am pretty sure it is plastic. I am not sure about the regular size bottles if they come in plastic too.

From the packaging:

"The Super Aqua basic series is formulated with Active Water System to help improve and maintain skin's healthy moisture balance, making skin moist and radiant."

Let's first go with Super Aqua Skin Fresh Hydrating Toner (30 ml).

"Fresh hydrating toner for clean and radiant skin adding moisture."

As the name it suggested, Aqua, the toner is very close to water in terms of consistency. At first I thought the smell was very close to a detergent but after using it for 3 weeks now, I got used to it and it became close to odorless. I apply it after double cleansing using my palms. I always prefer not to use cotton on Korean toners to save every last drop of it. Korean toners works differently from American toners which is usually applied with a cotton. The product is so light and absorbs faster into your skin but I always space my applications like 1-3 minutes every product to allow better absorption.

Next, the Super Aqua Skin Fresh Hydrating Emulsion (30 ml).

"Moist hydrating emulsion for lustrous and smooth skin balancing skin's oil and moisture level."

Emulsion or face lotion as what others usually define it. The lotion is very white and the smell is a bit stronger than the toner. I am really annoyed with the smell at first coz it's too strong for me but gladly I got used to it. I apply it after the ampoule or the essence. I used to put a lot on my face but I notice that it does not absorb on skin my quickly. (My skin is oily type.) Later I apply it on smaller amount for better absorption.

During the first few days using the Super Aqua Skin Fresh, I notice a small zits on my face. Gladly it disappeared after a week. Probably it was a reaction after shifting from Near Skin Firming Peptide set. Throughout the 3 weeks of using the product I notice less break out, and if it does it just so few. The Super Aqua Skin Fresh set is also mild on my face, I don't feel any tingling sensation during my application. This is really a good set if you are looking for moisturizing and hydrating effects. Waking up in the morning is also a beauty, it's not so greasy and skin feels so soft too. It didn't help with my blemishes though.

Buying again? Maybe, this will be a good choice if I ran out with my favorites again or maybe for traveling if you don't want to bring those bigger bottles with you.

How about you? What you think about Super Aqua Skin Fresh line?

December 10, 2014

Zalora Philippines Online Shopping Review

As you know, I love online shopping when I am stressed. And one of my favorite online shops to visit is Zalora. I have made several successful purchases at zalora but never really had a chance to properly review everything.



What I love shopping at Zalora is that they give out coupon codes and discounts from time to time. :) Since they started in the Philippines, now their site has grown. They have added more brands to their list like Mango, River Island and more. They even upgraded their website which is now better than before. Just my thoughts though because I can now view the website even with a slow internet connection.

The common question for most is, is it legit? Of course it is. As far as I know, Zalora is a big online shopping company in Asia. If you have no credit card  or PayPal, it is not a problem. They offer COD payments too.

Delivery time usually takes 7 days from my experience since I am from the province. One of the things I love about shopping at Zalora is items ordered, no matter the size, they will always come in Zalora box and not just wrapped with anything. This way I know that my orders are safe.
This Christmas season, if you have no time to shop on department stores, Zalora is a perfect choice to shop your gifts and everything else. Highly recommended!

Enjoy 15% discount when you shop at Zalora, just use the code ZBAPZSFT. You can even share it with your friends.



November 10, 2014

Missha Near Skin Firming Peptide Toner and Emulsion Review


I have regretted it so much why I didn't try this as soon as I had these samplers. This set of beauty bottle was hibernating in my closet for like a year already since I received them. I bought the M Perfect BB Cream so I had this two coming along on my package.

Missha Near Skin Firming Peptide line was the one of highest end product for Missha because it is really effective. This is according to the CS on Missha Philippines who replied to me when I inquired for its price.

A short description about the item from Missha US site.



"Near Skin Firming Peptide Extra Vital Toner helps make dry and fatigued skin smooth and bright while allowing the following skin care products absorb into the skin. It provides moisture to the skin and helps make even skin texture. Skin-friendly ingredients, like Lipid Water and 12 peptides, control moisture balance in the skin to help boost the benefits of following skin care.

Near Skin Concentrating Emulsion helps firm and tighten skin by maintaining moisture and nutrition balance while increasing turnover of dead skin cells, a cause of sagging skin. The soft and silky textured formula moisturizes and nourishes the skin to help make an even and smooth skin texture. Contains skin-friendly ingredients, like Lipid Water, Lipid Barrier, and 12 peptides, for firming and tightening benefits.

Near Skin Firming Peptide 4-Step Wrinkle Care & Firming System
Step 1) contains Fermented Bio-Calcium to strengthen skin barrier and tighten the skin
Step 2) contains 12 peptides to restore skin elasticity for firm skin
Step 3) improves fine lines and wrinkles for a smooth skin surface
Step 4) protects and strengthens skin barrier for healthy skin condition"


With the benefits stated above, I can really say that this combo is really effective on my acne prone skin. The effects are noticeable even after 3 days of using it during my night regimen. The effects are even better compared to what was prescribed by my dermatologist which I have stopped because I was not satisfied even after 1 year of following it. I did not use any other creams during my usage for this combo and I am loving the effect on my face. It really beats my previous regimen from my dermatologist. :)

After cleansing my face, I use Near Skin Firming Peptide Extra Vital Toner. The toner is lightly colored and smells good. I used to apply it using a cotton but later change and apply it by lightly patting using my palm for better absorption. After a while I apply Near Skin Concentrating Emulsion by gently massaging in circular motion on my face and neck. There was a slight tingling sensation during my first few nights of using it. I was worried it will cause any bad side effects but it was not so I think the slight tingling sensation was normal.

Just by using this two products, the effects are really great. On the third day of using it, I notice my skin was lighter and moist. Dewy not oily. And if I look at it closely it seems that the skin looks more relaxed than it was before. Pores were minimized but are still there. No major break outs during my usage and the zits that was already there before I started using it healed faster.

Now it’s more than a week of using the sampler, I am panicking where I can get these items so I can continue enjoying the benefits. Should I repurchase? Of course, definitely I am. I have ordered from a friend of mine but the stocks will arrive by December and my samplers are almost near to empty.

Shelling out PhP 2600 (Missha Philippines Facebook) for each bottle is such a horror compared to PhP 900 (from a reseller) each bottle. That was a huge price difference from the same product.

And no, I am not posting my face to show you the before and after like how they normally do it. :)

Update: 2/20/15

Missha Near Skin Firming Peptide Toner and Emulsion
So I now have the full size bottle and they are so light pink. The packaging is elegant and very feminine. (They're so chic by the way!) Product consistency and effects on me are the same with the samples I tried few months ago. I was very glad to finally have them. The only downside with their packaging is that you can't tell how much toner or emulsion you still have because it is not transparent. I hope they can make it more transparent or maybe have a part of the bottle transparent so just we can see the level of the product inside.

The toner dispense a controllable amount of liquid and a pump for emulsion is adequate enough for my whole face. Both bottles are still heavy so I assume they are still enough after 2 months of using them. I wonder how long they will last on me. My face doesn't feel stingy anymore when I apply them unlike the first time I tried them. I use the toner morning and night and the emulsion on night time only.

Since starting a Korean Skin Care Routine, I can really say there has been an improvement on my skin specially on the moisturizing department. Though I still battle a few bouts of break outs on my jaw line part from time to time, but they are controllable. I have to accept that my acne is genetic and all I have to make sure is that it doesn't get worst then I will be fine. The oiliness is now very minimal and yay, I don't have to worry for the cheek to cheek greetings. Haha!

Update 7/25/15

The full sized bottle for toner lasted me about 6 months and 15 days. So far, the effects was good on me. I am more happy with my skin right now than before. I still have 1 more bottle in my closet but I think I'll try the Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner Sensitive Toner.




September 19, 2014

Buddha's Surf Resort Siargao Resto and Bar


Aside from enjoying the good accommodation at Buddha's Surf Resort Siargao, we also had the chance to enjoy their very delicious food. Too bad I didn’t get a picture for every meal we ordered there. 

Their Burgers and Sandwiches’ are one of the best you should try while on the island.

This is their Angus Burger with fries on the side. You can also chose a mashed potatoes if you want to. Babe loves the burger and according to him, it was one of the best burger he ever had. The patty was not too salty or too bland and it was packed with fresh veggies. 

This is my Tuna Sandwich. I was hoping it also has a fries on the sides, hahaha. The bun is elongated so it was cut into half. What I like the most about it is that it has a REAL tuna in it and not the canned tuna mixed in a mayo like some of the resto in the cities serves. The bun also tasted good, I wonder where they bought it or bake it themselves. It just taste so good.

The only thing you might hate here is the serving time, so if you are the type of a person that doesn't like waiting. You can order your food then come back after 20-30 minutes at the resto. We usually play cards while waiting for our food to be served. Good food are worth the wait. :)


I did not bother to look at the price since we all paid it when we checked out but there burgers and sandwiches is somewhere at 200 - 250 pesos.

September 17, 2014

Diary Entry #34: My CitiBank Credit Card Application

I am just so thrilled I got approved for a Citibank Card. I didn't expect that to happen. So thrilled that even at this midnight I had to type in and share how excited I am.

What so great about having a credit card anyway? Utang na naman yan.!

I am not a fan of loans and debts, but there are times that you really have to. I already have a BPI secured card, for the past year and half using it, I find it helpful managing my finances and paying my bills easier than queuing at the payment center. To avoid debts from overspending, I always see to it that I have enough money to pay my bill even if my salary will be late.

So during my stay at Cebu, I happen to see the Citibank agents at SM Cebu Supermarket and this lady agent came to approach me and ask if I want to apply and take advantage of their existing Free Annual Fee For Life promo. Though I really want to apply but I did not bother entertaining her because I know I won't get approve due to the nature of my work. After a few minutes of talking and the possible explanation why I was disapproved from previous application even if I already had a BPI credit card, I got convinced to try it again this time and I told her that I will just approach her after we finish shopping for our goodies. Then after paying the cashier, I head back to their kiosk to fill the form.

So I just fill the form, provide her my ID and credit card for documentation. Then they gave me the blue Citibank umbrella. Di bale disapproved, may payong naman ako!

Here is my FREE umbrella. Very useful this rainy season.

It took almost 15 days for the entire application

August 29: Filled out the form and got my free umbrella
September 4: Got a confirmation text that my application was received
September 9: Got a confirmation text that my application was approved
September 16: My card arrived! Yey!

Not bad this time. Thanks Citibank!




September 7, 2014

Buddha's Surf Resort Siargao, Phillippines

After booking our tickets to Siargao through Cebu Pacific's Piso fare, I spent whole night looking for a place to stay in Siargao. Since it will be my first time there and none of my friends can actually give me a good tips about there so I had to do a research on my own.

So all my search lead me to Buddha's. So I inquired and made a reservation online by emailing them. I booked the superior room with breakfast at P 2650.00 per night. I initially booked for 3 nights only, then our flight was re-booked so I had to add another 1 night.

At the airport we were greeted by the driver with my name on the sign board. It was a good idea to book your airport transfer as I don't notice any public vehicle around the airport. The trip from the airport to the resort is almost 1 hour at 60/km drive. At the resort, we were greeted by the staff with all smiles that will make you feel really welcome. As you enter, there bar is on the right side, a place to a volleyball and a little walk will be 5 room building. Ours was the only room on the second floor. After the staff showed us our room, about 5 minutes our welcome drinks was serve. Too bad I was not able to enjoy it as it has a cola. I don't drink cola.

Birthday boy playing candy crush

This is the view from our room. The place is well maintained and very clean. The green grounds where you can play or just relax at the hammocks. You can play badminton here, you can borrow rackets at the bar. 

Our room was big and very spacious. I didn't had the to take a picture though but it was really neat. It has its own walk in closet so no need worry about cluttered clothes all over. The bathroom was also huge. Mattress is very comfortable plus the very large flat screen TV is our favourite. The room is quite pricey from but from the amenities and the service I receive from staff. It was all worth it.

Aside from the excellent accommodation, the food at Buddha's Surf Resort Siargao was the best and is a must try. They serve one of the best sandwiches I have ever tasted. There Angus beef burger and Tuna Sandwich was really delicious. The only downside is that the serving time which takes longer than usual. But it was all worth the wait. You should also try their Burrito and Curry. My bf loves their curry.



Surprisingly, the internet connection in Siargao is pretty good. I didn't have problems doing my work while I was there. Also, Cloud 9 is a bit far (2.5 km) from the resort, but you can rent a motor bike.


It was fun staying here. :)

August 27, 2014

Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm Review

Lippies. Lipsticks. Lip gloss. Whatever it is they are all lipstick to me. Just earlier this year, I thought I have found my favorite palette for lip colours that I previously bought from zalora.com.ph. I love the colours but my only problem is that it doesn't last for more than 4 hours and you have to constantly retouch.

When I went to Watson's last week, I bumped into their lipstick corner and found this Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm #210. After some chit chatting with the sales lady and got sold by her sales power. I bought one to try on. And guess what, it is now my favorite lip colour (at this time though). I love it that even when I am at home, I still use it.

Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm no. 210

What I like about Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm is that it stays longer even after eat something or drink something, I don't have to worry about retouch. The packaging is also cute, though my first impression when I open it was it looks like a Jumbo Crayola. Haha. It also tastes good, it actually has a minty flavour on it. Plus, the matte has a natural look if applied properly.

Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm no. 210

What I don't like? Drying my lips and the price. It cost me P 575.00. It's quite pricey but heck, if it is that good, I really don't mind buying more colours.


I guess this will be on my Christmas list soon for my girls.

Updated 01.21.15:

I actually did buy another shade for Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm last Christmas. Shade no. 205 is almost at the same colour on my lips. So if I opt to wear something so neutral, I use this shade. If I compare the color, it is something near to an Old Rose. I honestly can't tell if it stays longer like no. 210 coz it has the same tone my lips has. It's still drying my lips though but it is a good lippies.