Beware: Unsafe Skin Whiteners List!

Skin whitening has been the trend worldwide but most especially in Asian countries like the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand to name a few. People use whitening products to whiten their overall complexion or to remedy uneven skin tones, or remove scars, acne marks, brown spots and skin blemishes. But how safe are these whitening products?

I do suffer from acne marks and other skin blemishes brought by my hormonal acne. So I do research a lot of these whitening products. I've tried many whitening products, mostly those that are advertised on television. You can check my previous articles about the products i've used.

Today, I'd like to share a list of Unsafe Skin Whiteners which I got online from this link (http://www.skin-whitening-product.com/unsafe-skin-whiteners.html). I am not sure this list is verified but at least we get be extra cautious in buying. Just do additional research of the products before you use them.

So here goes the list. Please share this on facebook so that others will know. 

Skin Lightening / Whitening / Bleaching Products with Hydroquinone:
A3 Cleartouch Complexion Lotion
A3 Lemon Skin Lightening Lotion
A3 Skin Lightening Cream
A3 Triple Action Cream Pearl Light
Ambi American Formula
Ambi Extra Complexion Cream For Men
Ambi Special Complexion Cream
Amira Cream or Magic Cream
Baraka Skin Lightening Cream
Binti Jambo Cream
Blackstar
Body Clear / Body Clear Cream
Butone Cream
Care Plus Fairness Cream
Carekako Medicated Cream
Cherie Claire Body Beauty Lightening & Treating Soap
Claire Creme
Clear Essence Medicated Fade Cream
Clear Essence Skin Beautyfying Milk
Clear Touch Cream / Lotion
Cleartone Skin Toning Cream
Clere Extra Cream
Clere Lemon Cream
Crusader Skin Toning Cream
Crusader Ultra Brand Cream
Dear Heart With Hydroquinone Cream
Dream Successful
Elegance Skin Lightening Cream
Envi Skin Toner
Extra Clair Lightening Body Lotion
Fade Out Cream
Fair & White Body Clearing Milk
Fairlady Skin Lightening Cream
Fulani Crème Eclaircissante
Glotone Complexion Cream
Ikb Medicated Cream
Immediate Claire Lightening Beauty Soap
Island Beauty Skin Fade Cream
Jaribu Cream
Jaribu Skin Lightening Lotion
Kiss Lotion
Kiss-Medicated Beauty Cream
Lady Claire
Lightening Body Cream
Lolane Cream
M.G.C. Extra Clear
Madonna Medicated Cream
Malaika Medicated Beauty Cream
Malibu Medicated Cream
Mekako Cream
Mic Skin Lightener Cream
Miki Beauty Cream
Mr. Clere Cream
Mrembo Medicated Beauty Cream
Nadinola Cream
Nindola Cream
Nish Medicated Cream
O'nyia Skin Crème
Palmer's Skin Success Fade Cream
Peau Claire Beauty Body Lotion
Peau Claire Crème Eclaircissante
Peau Claire Lightening Body Oil
Precieux Treatment Beauty Lotion
Princess Lotion
Princess Medicated Beauty Cream Immediat Claire
Princess Patra Luxury Complexion Cream
Rico Complexion Cream
Rico Skin Lightening Lotion
Rico Skin Tone Crème
Shirley Cream
Sivoclair Lightening Body Lotion
Symba Crème Skin Lite 'N'smooth
Tonight Night Beauty Cream
Top Lemon Plus Cream
Topiclear / Topiclear Cream
Tura Skin Toning Cream
Ultime Skin Lightening Cream
Ultra Clear
Uno21 Cream
Viva Super Lemon
Yesako Medicated Beauty Cream
Zarina Medicated Skin Lightener Cream

Skin Lightening / Whitening / Bleaching Products with Mercury:
Acura
Elegance
Fair Lady
Jambo
Jaribu
Mekako
Miki
Movate
New Shirley Medicated Cream
Pimplex Medicated Cream
Rico
Tura

Skin Lightening / Whitening / Bleaching Products with Steroids:

Action Demovate Cream
Action Demovate Gel Plus
Age Renewal Cream
Amira-C
Betalemon Cream
Body Clear Cream Spot Remover
Body Treat Cream Spot Remover
Clair & Lovely Gel
Dark & Lovely Cream / Gel
Dermo -Gel Plus
Fair & White Gel Plus
Fashion Fair Cream
Fashion Fair Gel Plus
First Class Lady Cream
Hot Movate Gel
Hot Prosone Gel
Jaribu Beta - Β Cream
Lemonvate Cream
Movate Cream
Neu Clear Cream Plus
Neu Clear Gel
Peau Clair Cream / Gel Plus
Pro-One Gel Mca
Prosone Gel
Regge Lemon Gel
Secret Gel
Sivoclair Cream
Skin Balance Cream/Gel Wrinkle Remover
Skin Balance Lemon Cream
Skin Success Cream / Gel
Soft & Beautiful Gel / Cream
Tcb Gel Plus
Tenovate
Top Gel Plus
Topifram Cream
Topifram Gel Plus
Ultimate Lady Gel
Ultra-Gel Plus
Unic Clear Super Cream
Visible Difference Gel

PLEASE SHARE ON FACEBOOK!

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W-II AcBeGone Review: How Effective?

Who among my readers still have pimples all over their faces? Pimples can really destroy one's self esteem and confidence. Pimples are really annoying! So, if you wish to get some tips on how get rid of your pimples and pimples scars, feel free to check out articles about how I combat my pimple misery.  Stay for a couple of minutes on my blog :)

Anyway, have you heard of W-II AcBeGone Product? It's on TV and mind you the advertising is really really convincing! I've watched this W-II AcBeGone advertisement for 15 times or more for the past 2 months. Is AcBeGone effective in removing pimples and acne marks? I have thought of buying this product to see how it works. The promises this product offers are way TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE! But out of curiousity and the slightest "WHAT IF IT WORKS" in my gray matter, are pushing me to draw money out of my pocket and buy this product. Yay, it's not a cheap item!

I will give an honest review of W-II AcBeGone product the soonest i get my hands on it.But for now, I'm still weighing things up especially on risking my almost pimple free skin to another possible skin irritant and pimple stimulant. 

By the way, you will not see a detailed review of W-II AcBeGone online. But you see some comments of users of this product who are most of the time not satisfied with the results they are getting.  So if you are a sufferer of acne, do think 100 times before buying anything for your skin, as this might aggravate your condition.

Well, for me, what works taking care of my internal system. By that I mean, EATING RIGHT! Then all of those commercial products may be applied externally. So, yeah.. That it. But I don't want you end up getting frustrated not finding some remedy for you pimple. So I'm gonna some tips.

•  Eat right


• Drink at least 10 glasses of water. You have to flush the toxins out.


• Wash your face not more than thrice a day.


• Use gentle, anti bacterial facial wash, not SOAP.


• Tone with Eskinol Derma Clear C + 175mg of Dalacin C. 


• Moisturize with a good moisturizer.

That's it for now. Wait for my review of W-II AcBeGone!

Have a wonderful day guys!

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Natural Skin Whitening Tips

Many Asian women, want to have a whiter skin. Thus, we have so many products nowadays which offer whitening results in a short period of time. There are also many derm clinics who offer various ways of skin whitening. But they can be really costly, especially if you want a faster result. If you have the budget, then fine, but if you are short of money, well, it's time to think of other ways to achieve whiter complexion. Let me discuss a few of these. 

There are cheap ingredients you can readily find in your kitchen or in the groceries or malls for a fraction of a price you normally have to pay for commercialized skin whitening products. 

1. Lemons. The citric nature of lemons is good for skin lightening. However it can be drying to the skin as well. Depending on your skin sensitivity, you need to do a skin test first. Normally, it is not advisable to put it more than 30 minutes because it might burn your skin. Others however have higher tolerance and put lemon juice on their skin overnight.  You simply get a lemon, cut in half and squeeze out the juice. Then apply the juice on your skin for 30 minutes (or less or more, depending on your tolerance). Then rinse, tone and apply a good moisturizer.

2. Papaya. The papain enzymes in papaya is what helps you achieve whiter complexion. Just get a ripe papaya , cut it in half, and take a spoonful or more of papaya and rub it on your skin. Leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse, tone and moisturize.

3. Tomato. Another good product to lighten your complexion. Get a ripe tomato, cut it in half. Take out the juice or just apply it immediately on your skin in circular motion. Leave it on your face for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse , tone and moisturize.

4. Honey. A perfect beauty companion. It kills bacteria, moisturizes and lightens the skin. Make sure  you get a natural honey or else you could simply be putting sugar on your skin. Leave the honey on your skin for 30 minutes to an hour. Feel refreshed afterwards. 

5. Potato. Oh yes, potatoes are good bleaching agent. Just cut the potato in thin slices then apply it on your face in circular motion. You can also blend the potato if you want or use a food processor to create a mask.Apply it on your skin for 15 minutes.

Remember to do a skin test first before putting anything on your skin. Also take vitamin E and C to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

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Glam Works Pimple Clear Anti Acne Gel Review

It's a rainy afternoon from where I am here in the Philippines. The rain is pouring hard. I just thought of letting you know..hehe..

Anyway, when I got my period a few days ago, I had major breakout. I had over 5 over sized pimples, or should I say acne.  Of course I freaked out. I started looking for the things to blame. I checked my lifestyle. Food intake? I was reckless for a few days for I was eating junk and drank soda, which were a huge No No! Sleep? I had very little of this for the past weeks.  I also consumed the last of my toner with Dalacin C, so for a week I was not toning my face. In sum, I fell short of the safeguards I should have been practicing to completely prevent pimples. My regular menstruation also contributed to the breakout of course.

But the good things is that the pimples are healing really fast. Thanks to Glam Works Pimple Clear Acne Gel. See photo below. I bought this product from Watsons for Php 149.00. This is my first time to try this product so, I thought I'd give you some reviews on this product.

 Glam Works Pimple Clear Anti-Acne Gel Review

Ingredients: (among others)

• Salicylic Acid
• Potassium Azelyol
• Diglycinate
• Triclosan
• Cinnamon Extract

Description:

This unique combination works with each other to help unclog pores, kill bacteria, reduce skin redness and dry pimples.

Directions:

After washing your face apply the gel only unto the part of the skin with pimple. Spread liberally. Use twice a day.

          BFAD Registered

Price: Php 149.00

Rating: 9/10. 

I've only been using this product for a few days. It might be premature to judge in such a short usage, but I'm not having a lot of time on my hands to blog, so please be warned accordingly :)

The product has gel consistency. It is not messy to use. The 25ml tube I bought is already a lot and I think you can use it for over a month. You just put a little of this gel on your acne and you feel a slight tingling sensation, which by the way, I think is soothing.

I applied the gel on my acne in the morning, afternoon and at night. During the first application, the swelling, redness is dramatically reduced in just a few hours. This is no exaggeration.  Take note I have huge bumps. Now on the second application, I noticed some of the pimples have dried up, meaning, they are no longer growing nor painful to touch.  The following applications of the gel, had the same effects.

In short, with no exaggeration, because I only want to share facts here based on experience, the product is really great. In such a short period of time, most of my pimples have dried up completely. What's left are ugly scars.

In combination with this acne gel treament, I also apply green tea gel. Of course I try to get back to my healthy lifestyle. You are what you eat right?

While I may have my occasional breakouts because of things beyond our control, like work, stress, busy lifestyle, etc, what's important is already know how to combat pimples or hasten the healing process. If you are suffering from acne, there's a cure to it. It starts with a healthy lifestyle..:)

If you want to read more about how to combat acne, my way, you can read this article of mine or browse through my other articles on Beauty and Fashion.

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Purederm Olive Collagen Mask Review

First i'd like to shout Congratulations to all Filipinos! Manny Pacquiao won against Shane Mosley!

Yipeeey!

Life has been pretty tough on me lately. I literally moved out of the house. Not that I was kicked out or anything, but I was forced to because of my review. I did not just move out of the house, I moved to another city, alone! It's not a comforting experience to rent, cook for yourself, sleep alone at night, do the usual things you do without the familiar faces around you. I had sleepless nights as the stress triggered my insomnia, and I had to study for hours, lurking at the wee hours of the night in a very unfamiliar place, with all the anxieties and fears of just about anything creeping through my grey matter!

While the good news is I did not have breakouts. Unlike the past months were I get bumps here and there almost everyday. I maybe stressed out constantly right now, but I'm getting better almost pimple free skin again. almost because I had a zit on my forehead the other day. It has shrunk in size quicker than I thought. It's healing and perhaps in 3 more days, i'm good as pimple free again.

So what have I done? I made a post about my best pimple remedy right. So please go ahead read it first.
But then here's a short recap of what I do daily.


Morning:

• splash cold water on my face to get the good circulation going/ take bath.
• wash my face with a facial wash I use Garnier OilClear Brightening Facial Wash (Review coming up soon)
• Apply toner on my face using Eskinol Derma Clear C with dalacin C.
• Apply moisturizer with SPF 30 and which has collagen too. (got one from a facial clinic)

Afternoon:

• Apply toner when needed.
• Reapply moisturizer.

Night:

• Wash face with Garnier OilClear Facial Wash.
• Apply toner again.
• Apply fade cream which also has moisturizer (got from a facial clinic)

The fade cream is amazing as it has brightened my face, eliminating a lot of the scars. I'm happier looking at my face now..Oh yeah! 

So basically that's just what I normally do on a daily basis. I don't have Panoxyl anymore as there is no need. I don't always apply green tea anymore too.. But I still drink green tea every now and then. A liter of water a day is also very vital.

PUREDERM SKIN RECOVERY OLIVE OIL COLLAGEN MASK

But I'd like to introduce my latest fave finds. These are facial masks. What I have tried are those from PUREDERM. I've tried two of these facials masks, but I'll be reviewing the Olive Collagen Mask first.

Price:  

79.00 pesos

Pros:

It is 100% pulp so it adheres to your face way better than any other masks I've tried. 

It is not so wet as compared to the mask from Garnier.

It feels so good on your face.

Smell is just fine as well.

Cons:

There is only one. You are supposed to let it sit on your face for 10 to 15 minutes but you will have to let it stay extra longer as the mask has not dried up after that time. You don't want to waste the goodies from the mask, right?

Overall rating: 9/10

I love the mask as it makes the skin supple and more plump immediately. I don't have enough sleep lately. The longest sleep I could get is just 5 or 6 hours. This mask made a huge different instantly.  So yes I'm definitely gonna buy again and I will try the other masks too. 

Facial masks are really great. They give you instant relief. They are not as costly as going to the derm clinic too. Although the effects are really different. Nonetheless, if you are not having troubles with pimples , pigmentations for that matter, you can skip the trip to the derm clinics and just pamper yourself with these facial masks.

Caution: Do not apply this on your face without doing a skin test first.  You don't want to get allergies, just in case you are allergic to some of the ingredients.

Till then.

The Confessant

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My Best Pimple Remedy!

Wheew! Time passes so quickly and it's been a long while since I started Tickle Thy Thoughts! I didn't have the idea that I'd be really attached to this blog. I own a lot of blogs, some of which I simply have forgotten burried in the deepest chambers of the less active part of my Brainsss!  Guess, I often start things that  I cannot finish... ) But Tickle Thy Thoughts is meant to stay and to live! So while I may be extremely busy with all the hustles and bustles in my offline life, I choose to get some time off to blog and be "The Confessant" I so fondly call myself online. 

My blog is meant to share information that are useful to all my readers.  have very limited time to be online, so let's get the parteee started!

I've been battling with pimples or acne for months. I've tried many remedies, expensive products that we all get to see advertised on tv and on gigantic billboards.  Some work, some don't. Some work momentarily. Others just leave you with more pimples. You can check my articles about pimples and the various products I tried.

I won't do so much talking please understand because  my time is very limited. But here's the thing. To get rid of your pimples and to prevent further pimples from showing, you can try what I apply.

What you need: 

1.. Eskinol Derma Clear C 135ml (Or Ponds or Any Toner you like)

2. Dalacin C 150mg.

Preparation:

Just mix the Dalacin C to your Eskinol Derma Clear C Cleanser. Shake the mixture well.

Application:

Twice a day, preferably morning and before going to sleep. Apply this after cleansing your face. But if you have mild pimple you can just apply at night.

The Dalacin C contains antibiotic that kills the bacteria causing those pimples. I am no chemist. I also have just read this and heard this from other people. I follow the mixture above. And so far it works very well for me. As of this writing, I have no pimples, not one! I just have tiny scars but NO PIMPLES!

In combination with this treatment, maintain proper diet. Eat healthy foods.

VERY IMPORTANT

Drink Green Tea at least once a day. Apply the green tea to your acne as well. It has healing properties.  This is very important. Green Tea is very important. I used to drink 2 to 3 cups a day when I was still on the healing process. I also apply green tea on my face for a few times in a day. Don't skip this please if you want to be pimple free.

And don't forget to drink at least a liter of water if you have mild acne. If you have severe acne, raise your water intake to as much as 2 liters. Remember not to over drink in one setting.  That's not good for your body. Detoxify as well. Green Tea  and water are good detoxifiers.  If you can bear it, then do the apple detox diet. This is how I do it;

• Eat at least 5 apples in a day for 3 days. You can skip meal if you also want to lose weight or just eat minimal amount of food, no coffee, processed juice nor soda nor liquor.
• Drink water a lot of it!

For Spot Treatment of your pimples, use tea tree oil. Panoxyl works well for huge pimples, but it tends to give you dark scars, so I don't recommend it.

To reduce redness and swelling, do the ice treatment:

• Get ice cubes wrap them in a cloth then apply on your pimple. Place it on your pimple for as long as you can bear it. Then wait for a minute or two, then do the same process again. Do this ice treatment at least twice a day depending on the need.

Some don'ts you should remember;

1. Don't touch your face often specially with those unclean hands

2. Don't prick your pimples, no matter how tempting.

3. Don't apply products without doing a skin test.

4. Don't let your shampoo/ conditioner touch your face when in the shower.

5. Don't sleep on your side, that is if you can handle it.

6. Don't stay late at night. This triggers stress, which can trigger acne attacks.

7. Don't eat the foods you think trigger your acne. If you feel certain foods make you breakout more, then you are probably right.

8. Don't smoke and stay away from people who are smoking.

9. Don't drink too much coffee as too much coffee triggers stress which leads to pimples.

10. Don't hate yourself for having pimples. Think positive. Maintain a happy spirit as this radiates on the outside.

I hope I get to help you. Sorry I am in a rush. I have so much to share but I am not as free as I used to be. But I will update more and answer many of the comments in my other articles that I have not answered.

thanks a lot and do share my page on facebook :)

Follow me on twitter too..

Have a happy life everyone and God bless!

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Summer Hair Care Tips

It's summer and for many women, one of the biggest problems during summer is hair damage. The sun is our hair's worst enemy too. Too much heat from the sun during summer is a seasonal enemy of our precious hair, not just for women but also men. The heat causes increased porosity which leads to weak, easily broken hair strands, dryness, hair color fading, dandruff , frizzy hair and split ends. Imagine your hair under heat treatment of over 50 times during summer, when left unprotected.

What can you do to protect your hair this summer? What are some Summer Hair Care tips you should bear in mind? Let me discuss a few.

1. One important REMINDER or make this a RULE: Try to Avoid the Sun as much as possible! But avoiding the sun completely during summer is impossible unless you lock yourself in a dungeon, right? So I say "TRY".

2. Wear protective clothing. Wear hats, caps, bring umbrellas whenever you are out in the sun. Simple to do but some still ignore wearing hats or bringing umbrellas. Males, do bring umbrellas too.. You won't lose your masculine you :)

3. Shampoo and Moisturize/Condition your hair daily.  Use a good shampoo and conditioner. Again this applies to all- both men and women.

4.  Do a weekly hair treatment- extensive moisturization/conditioning - (hot oil) You can do this at home or head over to a good hair salon.

extra tip: Apply mayonaise on your hair. You can apply plain mayonaise or mix some olive oil in it.. Leave it for 20 minutes or so..

5.  Take your vitamins. There are many vitamins that are so good for your hair. We have Vitamin B-Complex, Vitamin B-6,  Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. Beta Carotene is also good for your hair.

And don't forget to drink lots of water! 

P.S. Sorry for not updating that often. I was on a trip and there was no internet connection. Grrr.. I  hate that when it happens. Being offline felt like I was disconnected from the universe..:)

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7 Things You Should Do To Avoid Eye Wrinkles

Too much emphasis has been given on taking care of our facial skin, but people tend to forget how just important it is to take care of our eyes as well.  The skin around your eyes needs a different kind of care. You can't use the same cream that you use on  your face, for your skin around the eyes. The skin in the eye area is so thin and sensitive. There are things we need to always remember to protect our eye area. 

Eye Wrinkles make one look old. The saggy eye bags and the dark circles add a few more years to your age. This is not good.  So what do you need to do to avoid Eye Wrinkles? Read and learn..

7 Things You Should Do To avoid Eye Wrinkles

1. Always wear Sunglasses! Some people despise wearing Sunglasses, but the constant squinting causes crow's feet and forehead wrinkles.  You squint and squint for years and that creates creases on the skin around your eyes.

2. Always wear Eye Cream with SPF. The skin around the eyes is thin that it ages faster than any other skin in your body. So wear an eye cream with SPF.

3. Don't sleep on your belly! Why? Doing so creates creases on the side where your eye gets in contact with your pillow. Through the years, this can cause permanent lines or wrinkles.

4. Don't overdo eye massaging! Massaging the eye area is good as it promotes proper blood circulation, but don't overdo. 

5. Be very gentle with your eye area. When you need to put make-up or remove make up or apply cream on your eye area, be very gentle! Needless to point out the fact that skin is so thin in that area. Rubbing your eye area roughly contributes to hasten wrinkling of the skin.

6. Drink an extra glass or two of water after a night of less sleep or during hot summer days. Doing so hydrates the skin around your eye area.

7. Get enough rest during the night and take naps during the day. This keeps your skin around the eyes looking plump. This also wards off fatigue and stress. We all know stress and fatigue, lack of sleep in a way encourages wrinkles. So keep your body well rested.

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Garnier Light Complete Multi Action Whitening Cream Reviewed!

Any product that promises to control oil and shine on my face definitely catches my attention. So yes, the Garnier Light Complete Multi-Action Whitening Cream was too tempting that I ended up buying the 20 ml tube for a price of PHP 65.00. I bought this product for 3 purposes:

1. To control oil and shine on my face.
2. To help fade my acne marks.
3. As make up base/ as a substitute for face powder as it gives a matte finish.

 Garnier Light Complete says on its package that is a Multi Action Whitening Cream:

• Anti-dullness
• Anti dark spots
• Anti acne marks
• 8 HR shine free Look
• With UVA/UVB Filters

Is the product effective?

I've been using this product for 2 weeks now. I'm using it in combination with other products as well. The cream is a bit thick, I guess but it does give you that matte finish after application.  It's got this lemony scent which I don't like that much but I don't despise either.  

As for the "anti-dullness" effect, well, i am not sure about this.. the product does make your skin look better after application, but haven't noticed much of a difference yet.

As for the "anti-dark spots" and "anti-acne marks" effect,s the results are satisfactory. I've noticed scars have lightened up a bit.  The product seems to work slow in fading out acne marks.

As for the "8 hour shine free look", the product only works from 3 hours to 5 hours for me. Why the variation?  If I stay indoors, away from the harsh environment, the product keeps me oil free for up to 5 hours. But if I'm out, oil start accumulating on my face just after 3 hours so I end up using oil blotting film and retouching every now and then. {Please take note when I also use the "Clean and Clear Deep Action Cleanser Facial Wash" which also promises to give you an 8hour shine free look, my face tend sto stay oil free up to 6 hours.}

As for the UVA and UVB Filters, well, I am not sure if we can call this as similar to "sunblock" or "sunscreen". But before I proceed, let me quote this:

UVB Radiation
UVB affects the outer layer of skin, the epidermis, and is the primary agent responsible for sunburns. It is the most intense between the hours of 10:00 am and 2:00 pm when the sunlight is brightest. It is also more intense in the summer months accounting for 70% of a person's yearly UVB dose. UVB does not penetrate glass.


UVA Radiation
UVA was once thought to have a minor effect on skin damage, but now studies are showing that UVA is a major contributor to skin damage. UVA penetrates deeper into the skin and works more efficiently. The intensity of UVA radiation is more constant than UVB without the variations during the day and throughout the year. UVA is also not filtered by glass.

Damaging Effects of UVA and UVB
Both UVA and UVB radiation can cause skin damage including wrinkles, lowered immunity against infection, aging skin disorders, and cancer. However, we still do not fully understand the process. Some of the possible mechanisms for UV skin damage are collagen breakdown, the formation of free radicals, interfering with DNA repair, and inhibiting the immune system

(source: about.com)

I think, it's a good thing to have UVA and UVB filters in this product. But to be safe, I use sunblock a few minutes after application of the Garnier Light Complete Multi Action Whitening Cream.

My Final Verdict

The product deserves a thumbs up for me! No breakouts! Acne marks are sloooowly fading.(still better)  and the product somehow makes me oil free, although for only a little span of time than as indicated on the product. But yeah, anything that  helps me stay oil free is good, right? So if you have oily skin that is really annoying, you can try this product and see if works for you. Bear in mind that people react differently to  beauty products. Your skin might just love this product. Just do a skin test first if you fear getting breakouts.

Rating: 4/5.

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Drink Green Tea for Clearer More Beautiful Skin!

Green Tea is not a favorite drink of mine. I prefer coffee or chocolate drinks than tea- green, yellow, whatever! But then, I'm starting to love Green Tea now. The reason why I drink this beverage is because of the health benefits it gives and the wonders it does for our skin. If you don't believe me, "Google" is a friend. Try asking it about Green Tea Benefits and you'll see what am talking about. (But yes you don't have to do the searching, for I 've done it for you)

So what are the Benefits of Green Tea? I will enumerate a few.

1.  It contains Catechins, a powerful anti-oxidant that fights free radicals.

2. It contains a compound called theanine which stimulates alpha brain waves, relaxes the body, removes stress and promotes relaxed awareness.
3. It helps you lose weight.
4. It prevents certain diseases like cancer and heart disease.
5. It helps improve the condition of your heart. Green tea inhibits atherosclerosis which is the hardening and thickening of arteries. It also reduces high blood pressure.
6. It helps in the prevention and treatment of Diabetes. Green Tea has the compound EGCG and theaflavins which regulate blood sugar levels by

• Increasing insulin activities
  
• Promoting glucose metabolism
  
• Blocking glucose absorption

 7. It treats inflammation, which is very useful for those who are suffering from acne and other skin condition.
8.  It boosts the immune system through the antigens it contains.
9. It helps prevent tooth decay and even bad breath.
10. It helps preserve bone density and reduces osteoporosis risk.

But wait, there's more. Many people use green tea to treat their skin problems like acne, blemishes, even dark spots. The anti-oxidants in green tea plus it's anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal treatment for pimples. Green Tea also tones and moisturizes the skin. I bet you've heard about famous people using green tea on their skin, in addition to drinking green tea. 

Green Tea really does wonder to your skin. I've been drinking Green Tea on a daily basis for over a month now. This is actually one of my secrets in combating pimples and other skin problems. I also apply it on my face. I'll share the step by step guide on how to make a Green Tea Toner, and facial mask soon.. Till next time..:)

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The Benefits of Egg Yolk Facial Mask: How to Prepare Egg Yolk Mask

Pampering yourself shouldn't be costly. With this simple facial mask you help your skin get rid of acne and other skin blemishes. It will only cost you 5 pesos.

Egg Yolks are very good for the skin. It has vitamin A that has retinoids or Retin A which is used to help skin shedding, regulate the amount of skin produced, stops pores from clogging. Egg Yolks also have 13 cis retinol which helps reduce oil production and bacteria that can cause acne.  If you have oily skin or have pimples, Egg yolk facial mask can help you.

How to prepare an Egg Yolk Facial Mask:

1. Separate the yolk from the egg white in a bowl.

2. Beat the yolk.

3. Place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to cool the yolk (optional).

4. Apply on face.

5. Rinse off after 15 to 30 minutes.

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Eat Healthy, Look Healthy!

If you want to look better on the outside in terms of your skin, your hair, your overall glow, you need to not only watch what you apply externally on your body but also watch what you eat.  What you take inside your body will show on the outside. Eat a healthy balanced diet and you will see your skin improve. As a matter of known fact, what  you take in is actually manifested through your skin, unless you are so blessed with good genes and good skin, the latter of which is an exception rather than the rule.

Eat Vegetables and Fruits

So start eating right especially if you have pimples, acne breakouts, uneven skin tone, dry skin, oily skin, sagging eyes, whiteheads, blackheads, and other skin problems. Skip sodas, liquor and other beverages that contain caffeine, too much sugar, etc. Also, refrain from eating sugary foods. Eat more vegetables and fruits which are rich in antioxidants.  Antioxidants keep the skin cells healthy by cleaning the body, removing waste products from cells, to give a clean, healthy glowing skin.

 

Drink Water

And yes of course, drink plenty of water each day. Water is the number beauty secret that is so obvious when it comes to the benefits it provides, but many tend to ignore it.

What water does to our body, aside from quenching our thirst? 

• Hydrates the body
• Transpsort nutrients and oxygen into cells
• Moisturizes the air in lungs
• Helps with metabolism
• Protect our vital organ
• Helps our organs to absorb nutrients better
• Regulates body temperature
• Detoxifies
• Protect and moisturizes our joints
• Water helps to replenish skin tissues, moisturizes skin and increase skin elasticity.
• Drinking water raises your metabolism because it helps in digestion. Fiber and water goes hand in hand so that you can have your daily bowel movement
• Water dilutes the concentration of cancer-causing agents in the urine and shortens the time in which they are in contact with bladder lining.

This article is simply telling you to eat right. Eat what's good for your body and in due time you will see great improvement in your skin and hair. Foods such as vegetables and fruits are not expensive.   What is the price of these compared to an expensive cake and coffee in the restaurant?  It's all about choice! Spend right! Eat right! Look great!

P.S. I will be out of town for a few days. I might not be able to update that often. Please bear with me. :)

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Cheap and Easy Face Scrub (2 ingredients only!)

Guys, I am super busy lately so yes I was not able to update as often. But here's my update for today- Cheap and Easy Face Scrub that you can do at home with only 2 ingredients. Exfoliation is very very important regimen for every person especially women. You can go to derm clinics to get a professional exfoliation treatment or buy exfolicating facial scrubs for a price or just make facial scrub at home.

Let's start with the ingredients.  You only need two ingredients which you can find at home:

1. Milk  or Honey

2. White or Brown Sugar

Steps:

1. Place 5 tablespoons of milk in a bowl. (or honey)

2. Add 3 tablespoons of white sugar in the bowl and stir. You can add more sugar if you want depending on your preference.

3. Mix the two ingredients together. Now you have your own facial scrub.

*** You can also add honey if you want to the  mixture.

Many of you know this very simple facial scrub recipe. But I just want to remind you that yes, you can exfoliate at home without spending so much. Now, if you have no milk or honey, just use warm water instead.  Remember to exfoliate gently. Do not put too much pressure on the skin and never overdo the exfoliation. Always moisturize thereafter. :)

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Bench ClearPore Cleansing Strip Review

I love Bench ClearPore Cleansing Strip! I've been using this product for a few months now. I use it at least once a month depending on the need.  

Description:

Cleanses pores of your nose thoroughly.

Stip away the clogged dirt and oil on the pores of hte nose with clearpore cleansing strip by bench. It effectively lifts away deeply hidden impurities for cleaner and less visible pores.

Verdict: 4 out of 5

Bench Clearpore Cleansing Strip really works in getting rid of your unwanted whiteheads and blackheads. Just follow the directions carefully and let it sit on your nose for 10 to 15 minutes but I usually leave it up to 30 minutes max just to make sure the strip gets a good contact with the skin. This strip is cost effective. It's only less than 15 pesos. Very ideal if you are too busy to make your trip to the derma. I'm giving it a 4 out of 5 because nothing beats the procedure done at the derm house.

There is also another variant of this Bench Cleansing Pore Strip- the Charcoal Cleansing Strip! I've tried both of these strips. All work amazingly. As to which one to pick, there is no difference as far as my experience is concern. So pick one or the other other!

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Effects of Not Drinking Coffee for 2 weeks!

Admitting that I am a coffee-holic is easy! I'm not the only addict especially in this modern fast world of ours, right? No big deal. I used to take a few cups daily of my favorite coffee 3 n 1 mixture. I used to drink during breakfast, a few hours after lunch, then in evening, before bedtime.. sometimes at midnight during long hours of cramming for examinations and preparing school projects. My coffee was my best companion especially when I was too occupied with school/work, when I was stressed and tired and needed a sudden boost of energy to stimulate my senses. Coffee is stimulating. It makes you instantly alert and attentive. Plus the antioxidants! The good things about coffee...

How about the not so good side effects of coffee. Coffee is addicting. And if you take too much of coffee with all the caffeine in it, it gives unpleasant results. Coffee stimulates the Central Nervous System causing an increase of "stress hormones", which makes you wide alert and attentive. But in the long run, this hurts our system. Imagine taking coffee everyday with that stress hormones in your body increasing day by day with every sip. This prevents one from relaxing. So eventually the drinker gets more stressed, lowering the immune system. Other side effects of coffee are fatigue, heart palpitations, irritability, bad skin condition, dry skin, sagging eyes and pimples! Oh yes girls, coffee can affect our looks and can trigger skin problems like pimple attacks! If you are having pimples and you don't know the culprit, and you are a coffee drinker, why not take the challenge to stop drinking coffee for a week or two and you will see an improvement in your skin condition.

Here's my story:

I refused amidst the violent protest of my inner self to drink coffee (and soda). It was a struggle at first. But I succeeded in not drinking coffee for 2 weeks. A forced deprivation! My sole intention was to see how my skin will improve without the caffeine on my system.

And the results??? Amazing indeed! My skin improved tremendously. Just after three days of no coffee, I noticed my facial skin looked plump, fresh, renewed and not dry. The skin around my eyes improved as well. Best of all, on the third day, I did not see any new pimple coming. And the pimple free skin continued for the duration of 2 weeks.  (I was worried only about the scars then)

So, my personal tip, if you have pimples, try skipping coffee and soda and you will see your skin condition will improve. Give it two weeks at least.

By the way, the other day, I drank coffee, as I really missed how it taste, and guess what,  a new zit just came out. Now I felt sorry. Anyway, I'm back to not drinking coffee again!

Till next time..

Happy holidays!

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Eskinol Oil Control Pimple Fighting Facial Wash: Review

Howdy guys? Here's another review for all women out there.

I have not used Eskinol products for some time, until a few weeks ago. I was so tempted to try out the new Eskinol Oil Control Pimple Fighting Facial Wash with Soft Tea Tree Oil Beads, because I do have oily skin. So yes I did buy one to see if it really works. Please do read my review on Ponds Perfect Matte Oil Control Cleansing Foam.

So anyway, Eskinol Oil Control Pimple Fighting Facial Wash promises to:

• Prevents pimple-causing bacteria with it's Pimple Fighting Action 
• Cleansing actives – reduces excess oils while preserving the skin’s natural moisture to protect it from irritation.
• Contains acne-shield that effectively washes away dirt and fights pimple-causing bacteria.
• Soft Tea Tree Oil Beads – release tea tree oil when rubbed on the skin to enhance the pimple-fighting action.

Price: $6.00 or more online for the big tube.

My Verdict:

I don't like the product so I'm giving it a rating of 2.0 out of a perfect 5. Why? First and foremost, it really did not control oil production. After washing my face with it, I'd get a shiny face in just about 20 minutes or so.It's not that I expect it to control oil production but I was hoping to get a shine/oil free face longer after using it. Worst I had acne breakout after barely a week of using it. So it really did not work for me. The good thing though are the beads which gently exfoliates your skin uhmm... just a little.

I won't buy another tube of  Eskinol Oil Control Pimple Fighting Facial Wash. I still have one big tube sitting undisturbed in the shower room. 

If you want to try this product, do buy the sachet first. Each and everyone reacts differently to beauty products. Hence, who knows this might work for your on the contrary.

What I am using right now is the new Ponds Pure White Deep Cleansing Facial Foam with Activated Carbon. This is just my 3rd day of usage. I will give my review after a few more days.

-->OLAY NATURAL WHITE REVIEW

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Garnier Overnight Whitening Peeling Cream: Review

I have consumed a whole 50ml  jar of this cream so it's time to make a short review on how effective this product is to me. This is the statement at the back of the Garnier Light Overnight Whitening Peeling Cream

"The association of pure lemon essence and natural peeling fruit extracts to peel off dullness overnight and let whitening action diffuse. Wake up to a fresh and fairer skin in the morning."

What it promises:

• skin becomes fairer in 28 days
• Melanin Production is reduced (the pigment responsible for darkening and dark spots reproduction)

Price: 299 pesos or may be lesser now

How effective is Garnier Light Overnight Whitening Peeling Cream:

On a scale of 1-5 with 5 as the highest, I'd give this product a 3.5. Yes it is indeed effective in reducing dark spots specially the ones brought about by acne.  But this is not your wonder cream. Skin lightening is not so noticeable even after more than 30 days of usage. But acne scars have been considerably reduced. So if you need to get rid of those ugly pimple scars, then this is a good choice. 

Garnier Light Overnight Whitening Peeling Cream has a a sweet fresh smell. It's not greasy. But do not apply this on daytime because it will really make your face very shiny.

While it is a peeling cream, there is no visible peeling on your skin. Did my face go red? Nope it did not.  I also did not have break outs nor any adverse reaction to the product.

So basically, it really does deliver what it promises.

My Suggestion:

If you want to really whiten your face, this product will not give you that kind of result. You may have to look for other products. I would suggest this product for those who have acne marks that are too stubborn to go away. One can apply a dot of this product on the scar every night to help eliminate it.

More personal reviews of beauty products soon..

Do Check This OUT and do share: Ten Ways to Seduce Your Man 

OLAY Natural White Review

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Product Review: Ponds Age Miracle Daily Resurfacing Cream

It's good to be back again blogging. I was a bit busy a few days ago. So here's my first post for the week. I have decided to make a product review for all those kikay girls out there. This day's product is Ponds Age Miracle Daily Resurfacing Cream.

I have been a user of Ponds Product. I use their toner, their facial wash and their Daily Resurfacing Cream. First and foremost, Ponds Age Miracle Daily Resurfacing Cream is primarily for fighting aging, reducing wrinkles or age spots in 7 days. That's their promise! This Age Miracle cream is dubbed as Asia's cult cream. It is in fact the best seller beating many popular brands in the market.

The PRICE:

Price wise, this cream is very affordable at only 299 pesos. With the right usage, the product can be used for a month. I used the one in a jar , see photo above.

The GOOD:

Ponds Age Miracle Daily Resurfacing cream is not so sticky and it smells good. It is a great moisturizer considering how easily it would seem for the cream to get absorbed by the skin. It is also a great foundation for make ups because it leaves a matte polished finish, instantly reducing skin discolorations like acne marks. Yes it makes your skin whiter instantly. Another great thing about this product is the SPF 15, so you can actually go out in the sun without worrying about the damaging UV rays.

The 7 Day Promise: how effective:
I don't have many visible wrinkles on my face. So I can't tell with certainty that the cream removed my wrinkles. But as far as my friends who also used the same product are concerned, they noticed a huge difference on their faces. Wrinkles have been less visible and their pores have shrunk in size. In my case, I noticed my facial skin is tighter, pores are smaller and my skin is more radiant.  I also did not develop any irritation in the form of rashes, acne or skin itching.


The BAD:
The downside to using Ponds Age Miracle Daily Resurfacing Cream is that it seems there is no more effect after a month of usage. Perhaps I developed immunity to the product or perhaps the threshold has been reached. Either case, I am not going to buy the product again for purposes of fighting aging. But as a moisturizer it is a great choice!

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Papaya Mask to Help Eliminate Scars!

Need help in eliminating your acne scars? Try out this Papaya Mask to lighten acne/pimple marks and achieve glowing smooth complexion. Papaya aside from being delicious, has vitamin C and vitamin E, and enzymes that nourish, exfoliate and smoothen complexion. It is readily available in the Philippines.

To make a Papaya Mask you need a fresh ripe Papaya. Follow the instructions below:

DO A SKIN TEST FIRST

1. Slice a small portion of a regular sized papaya and chop it into pieces.

2. Mash the papaya or use a food processor to create a paste.

3. Apply the papaya paste on your face and leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes.

4. Rinse it off.

That's it. You can do this at least twice to 3 times a week to help aid your skin in the exfoliating process to eliminate acne scars.

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Acne Free in 3 Days: Review

How to be Acne Free in 3 days?

Sudden breakouts sometimes happen to me even if I have enough sleep and I am not stressed out. I usually resort to natural remedies in combination with over the counter acne cures in severe cases. The past months I came across an ebook called Acne Free in 3 Days by Chris Gibson. This ebook is very popular. It's seen on TV. The author has been interviewed on TV a lot of times already. I was tempted a couple of times to buying this ebook. Although I am hesitant of the idea of being Acne free in 3 days, I can't contain my curiosity of this secret formula of putting an end to acne and clearing my skin in 3 days. So I gave it a try nonetheless, for a price of course. In short I bought the ebook.

What is Acne Free in 3 Days formula? Basically, it's all about detoxification, that is getting rid of the toxins from your body. It involves eating apples for 3 days and other things to do. I can't disclose everything in here. If you want you can buy the ebook here: Buy Acne Free in 3 Days Ebook

Is Acne Free in 3 Days effective in clearing acne in just 3 days as it guarantees? The idea behind Acne Free in 3 Days ebook is true and scientifically proven. I only followed the 3 days of eating apples and nothing else, and yes I cheated and I ate a full meal the second day. But the results are impressive despite the fact that I cheated. All my pimples have dried out. A huge pimple that was about to surface from underneath my face was literally gone on the third day. Pimples dried out. The scars remained though. So I guess this concept really works.  I will give you an update after I explicitly follow the steps in Acne Free in 3 Days ebook.

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