25 May 2009

Lip balms in a pot

I’m so into lip balms since high school.  When my lips get dry either from being exposed to low AC temperature or extreme heat, a pot of lip balm offers quick relief.

The Face Shop Fresh Lip Balm


I love the fruity flavor, particularly cherry.  When applied, it instantly moisturizes lips just like a petroleum jelly would, minus the greasy feeling and the smell.  It has Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil, The Face Shop Fresh Lip Balm is the anti-chapping protection you’ll need as. This balm gives off a shiny finish, making it perfect to top your favorite lipstick as well.  As a base, I don’t recommend this one because the makeup is somewhat thick hence lip colors can’t stay on for long. 

 Other flavors available:  Orange and Strawberry

 You may also try Body Shop’s Born Lippy

Leaving the same effect as The Face Shop Fresh Lip Balm, this one is made of organic beeswax which is widely known to have moisturizing properties.

Ellana Lip Treatment

This no-petroleum lip balm indeed can keep your lips soft and supple over time.  And here’s a plus:  upon application, there is a sweet-minty taste while instantly moisturizing your lips.  I tried this balm when I had real chapped lips and it did wonders.  Now I still keep it in my kikay kit, a must-have in fact.  Perfect as lipstick base too. 

Flavors available: Vanilla Bean, Strawberry Kiss & Cucumber Melon

Photos courtesy of http://www.thebodyshop-usa.com/; http://www.thefaceshopen.com/; http://www.ellanaminerals.com/





18 May 2009

Sunblock

Over summers, I’ve been trying on different sunscreens. For someone who loves to go outdoors most of the sunny days, UV protection is a necessity.  So here’s my review of some of the sunblocks I’ve used over the years.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF50+ 
True to its name “Ultra Sheer”, this is by far the most translucent sunblock I’ve used.  It is easily absorbed by the skin and leaves no white marks.  I took this off the rack when I got intrigued by the ad’s tagline: 8 out of 10 women say this is the best sunblock, and I should agree.  Though almost invisible when applied, it works as hard as the traditional thick lotions.  Plus it has this cooling effect once struck by heat.  While Neutrogena costs a little more compared to other sunscreens in the market, it is worth every cent.



Nivea Children’s Sun Lotion SPF50  
When hitting the beach with the kids, this can be your best bet.  Aside from high SPF, it is proven safe even on children’s delicate skin so why would it be harmful on adults’.  Highly effective too, I never had sunburns with this on, even if I stayed under the sun for long a long time.  When you check the supermarket racks now, Nivea is now available in smaller, handy bottles hence consumes less space in your baggage.

  
Beach Hut Max SPF75++ 
So you hate the thick consistency most sunblock lotions have, this is for you.  Water-based and comes with a spray, application is much easier, even on those hard to reach areas like your back.  Aside from very high SPF, it is also non-sticky, non-greasy and hypoallergenic.  I just sooo love it.