Book Review: Black Milk by Elif Shafak

Reading Elif Shafak’s book is like reading love letters from your beloved ones. You couldn’t get enough of them. You keep repeating the same sentences over and over again as if you are scared the moment you move on to the next one, you might forget all about it and you couldn’t bear the idea of forgetting it. You couldn’t stop smiling either, as your eyes dancing on the letters, you imagine them sitting close beside you, listening to you, reading their words. Sometimes, you get so emotional that you couldn’t stop crying over it, either because the sad stories they been told, or because you’re touched with their words which reflect pure sincerity. For me, it is always the latter. Those letters always feel like warm hugs and could draw a happy smile over my face. That’s how brilliant her books are.  

Black Milk is her second book I read and I’d rate it 9.5/10. It is a non – fiction one, somewhat a memoir of her early life before being a mother and the early months after being a mother. It basically brings you on tours of two. The first part will bring you closer on womanhood, motherhood and authorship. The second part discusses the lives and works of various women writers, in past and present, seeing on how they dealt with similar topics, successfully or unsuccessfully. You may know their names or their works but getting to know how they live their life could be another thing. This book is the story of how Elif Shafak faced her 6 inner voices; struggling and negotiating with them most of the times and then learned to be One. (I’ll try elaborating more regarding these mental voices on my next time review, The Untethered Soul by Michael A.Singer) 

This book tells us about how at first she really against the idea of getting married, fretting if the phase might burden her to pursue her writing passionately like she currently does. She tried her best to make peace with all her inner voices which most of them against her getting married yet a part of her wanted to experience it and have babies of her own. Things started to change when she met Eyub, who has all the opposite sides of her and out of her control, Elif fell in love with him.

“Elif, I stopped expecting anything normal from you the day you quoted Neil Gaiman as your motto on love. We will do the best we can. You will be the nomad, I will be the settler. You will bring me magic fruits from lands afar, I will grow oranges for you in the backyard. We will find balance.” (Eyub)

 After 2 years married to Eyub, she got pregnant with their first baby. Her pregnancy journal was so fun to read and the contents are so hilarious as she was being forced to do all the unusual things; listening to all the nature sounds instead of listening to her music preferences; punk, postpunk and industrial metal. 

After giving birth to her beautiful daughter, she suffered postpartum depression and writer’s block for almost a year. I love the way she addressed this postpartum depression issue in this book since it is rarely discussed (I believe so) among our society since it is a taboo issue. She was fighting this alone since Eyub had to abroad for months. As she said, the only way to get away from problems is to acknowledge them. This book told me a lot about her and the writers she lived for. 

A beautiful one if you want to try a different genre than your usual ones. For my case, I wanted to understand better, get a good a picture about motherhood, this postpartum depression thingy and those obstacles that might be on my way. This book is not just for woman, but also for everyone who finds it difficult, at times, to balance the multiplicity of roles and responsibility in lives.

#AiniMentariReads

Huxley Glow & Brightness Sheet Mask (review)

Huxley Sheet Mask Glow & Brightness 

What is it?

-A unique, brigtening dual-pouch facial sheet mask that combines Prickly Pear Seed Oil and watery essence that soothes and reveals a bright, radiant skin.

How to use?

-Apply pressure from the bottom pouch towards the upper pouch, until there's an opening between the 2 pouch, allowing the oil (bottom pouch) to go down the upper pouch, consisting of the sheet mask and the essence. Next, press the surface evenly in order to mix well the essence and the oil until it turns milky down there. As the instruction said, apply this sheet mask after cleansing and toning and leave on for a good 10-20 minutes.

Key ingredients: Prickly Pear Seed Oil, Cactus Extract, Arbian Cotton, Edelweiss, Glutathione, Nectar Pure

Thoughts: Besides the key ingredients stated, it also contains niacinamide, fourth on the list, allantoin and caffeine. I rarely enjoy sheet mask since they usually irritate my skin but I tremendously enjoy using this sheet mask from Huxley, I have to swear by it. I experienced zero irritation from the moment it touched my face until the end of usage, which is rare. The fact that this mask used high quality of microfiber sheet, it provides me maximum comfort, adheres well on my skin and the mixture of oil and essence, deeply soothe, moisturise and offer me instant glow. Ooooh, so much love for this mask! It contains alcohol and fragrance but all is well for me.

🌟:5/5

Huxley came with 3 types of sheet masks; Oil & Extract, Moisture & Freshness and this one I'm using is Glow & Brightness. Each box consists of 3 sheet masks. 

Thank you so much for StyleKorean for this amazing opportunity for me to try this Huxley sheet masks.

Review on Isntree Sensitive Balancing Moisture Cream 80ml

Isntree Sensitive Balancing Moisture Cream 80ml 

What is it?

-A very creamy moisturiser packed with natural moisturising factors and natural oils; avocado oil, jojoba oil, palm oil, macadamia seed oil and palm kernel oil to deeply moisturise your skin and protect from harmful environment.

Best for?

-Sensitive dry skin to super dry skin

Scent?

-No noticeable scent

Does it work for me?

-No. My face was very dry when I bought this but still, my pores get randomly clogged. How I know? Because I only used this at night for few days straight. Frankly, I didn't expect much from this because it is heavy but the texture is not thick like cerave, more to the creamier side and the finishing is a bit greasy even though how I little I used. It's expected since avocado oil is second on the list. If you ever own any 100% cold-pressed avocado oil, you'll know, it's naturally a heavy oil, rich with oleic acid, nourishing oil, which supposed to work amazingly to dry skin people. 

So what did I do with it? Ahha, you know me. I applied this on my whole body, right after shower, on a damp skin, religiously for almost 2 weeks without a miss. Yes, I have a dry skin and my body loving it so much, post-application it doesn't feel tacky or heavy, just deeply moisturised, resulting in glossy and plump skin. Now, after religious application for almost 2 weeks, my skin is so much better ehek! 

I'm planning to keep trying Isntree products because they really make full use of amazing ingredients! 

🌟:4/5 (as a body moisturiser)

🌟1.5/5 (as a face moisturiser)

Bought this at shopee narrsha.my for RM30, after I redeemed a lot of my hard earn coins.

#ainimentarireview #ainimentarimoisturiser #skincarecommitment #emptied #moisturizer #skincaremalaysia #skincareroutine 

My Sunscreens Collection!

Sunscreens assemble! 🔅🌳

1) Biossance Squalene + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF30 20ml

2) Hada Labo Air UV Sunscreen (Fresh) SPF50 PA+++ 30ml

3) Garnier Sensitive Advanced UV Face Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF50+ 40ml

4) Etude House Sun-prise Mild Airy Finish Sunscreen (Olaf edition) SPF50+ PA+++ 55ml

5) Hada Labo Air UV Sunscreen (Moist) SPF50 PA+++ 30ml

6) Garnier Super UV Spot Proof Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ 30ml

7) Nivea Sun Protect & Light Moisture Sunscreen SPF50 PA+++ 70ml

8) Watsons UV Aqua Sun Protection Gel SPF50 PA++++ 50ml

9) Keep Cool Soothe Bamboo Sun Essence SPF50+ PA++++ 50ml

10) Keep Cool Soothe Bamboo Sun Essence 50ml SPF50+ PA++++ 50ml 

11) Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturising Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ 50ml

12) B.Lab I Am Sorry Just Sun Cream  SPF50+ PA++++ 50ml

13) Nivea Protect & Light Brightening Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++70ml 

14) Cosrx Shield Fit All Green Comfort Sun 35ml SPF 50+ PA++++

#ainimentarisunscreen #sunscreen #skincare #skincaremalaysia #skincareroutine #biossance #etudehouse #hadalabomalaysia #garnieruk #garnier #nivea #watsons #keepcoolsunscreen #keepcool_global #blab #cosrx #justobsessed #birthdayproject #frommetome

4 Aspects of Strong Relationship

 

This is what came in my mind when I was brushing my teeth in my sister’s bathroom in Subang. Come to think of it, lots of inspiration for my writings really happened when I was brushing my teeth in that bathroom.

Here are 4 main things you want to check if you want a successful relationship, doesn’t matter what kind of relationship. This applies to all kind of relationships out there.

First, good choice of words. It’s easy to say good things when we are happy but is it really easy to say good things when we are angry and so consumed with our emotions? It could be hard to keep the clean records. This is why, it is very important to train ourselves to think before we speak, in any kinds of situations. If we really don’t want to live our lives full of regrets, train ourselves hard to think before we speak. In the moment when you think right before you say something, we also need to think who we are to the person we are talking to, or in other words, to know where we are standing. When we are aware of who we are to the person we are talking to, and who the person we are talking to, it’s easier to talk since we know what kind of words we are going to use with the full grasp of the situation. Here comes the hardest part, to stay silent when we are angry, when we are burning on the inside and we feel like we just want to say what should be said so that we could feel satisfied.

For example, when someone said something bad to us, or cursed us, maybe because she’s in a bad mood or both of you are fighting over something, it is always tempting to hurl the harsh words back. Because in that moment, we feel the urge to lash out everything so that we could feel satisfied. We imagine the satisfaction will be so real but the question is, does it really worth it all?

It might be satisfying for a good few minutes but later you will sit down with full shot of regrets. Could apologies erase everything you said before? No. It is hard to hold back but the real satisfaction is when you are able to stay sane and rational in this kind of situations. This is why our Prophet said,

One who cools and controls his anger is regarded as a wrestler (a strong person). [Bukhari & Muslim]

I understand we all are made of limits. But remember, there are always ways to talk things through. Always. But if some people treat you way too much and you could feel your blood is boiling, face them heads up. Those people might seem strong and capable of saying things so hurtful that you think you could die listening to them, but the real fact is, they might not be the way they seem. They might have more issues inside them, they might struggling with a list of insecurities. Nobody knows.

Normalise saying what should be said not what they want to hear, because most of the times, it’s far from realistic. Stay true to your words. Stay true to yourself.

Second, touch. I’m just going to be real here, physical touch really plays a big role in relationships especially family bonds, romantic relationship, friendship, you name it. We are not talking about a tasteless touch or what, we are talking about physical touch wraps with compassion and love. Good physical touch at the early age could contribute a lot in kids’ developments, it could affect how the kids perceive themselves as a person, has impacts on their social skills and so on. Here’s the question, should it be done in an excessive way? It depends on your definition of excessive itself and of course, personal preferences. But for married couple, seriously speaking, it’s not great to show too much of love in the public because instead of proving how much you love your partner, it could prove the other way round. Moderately is always the best way to do something. Sometimes, I like to touch those people who I am so comfortable with, because those touches give me a sense of security and contentment. I couldn’t help but smiling and surely, I don’t feel that way with everyone. Of course this got something to do oxytocin, or known as cuddle hormones. It gives you the sense of closeness and security. Oxytocin is also known to promote bonding between mother and child. Take yourself as an example. How you feel when you touch your beloved mother? It feels good right? It feels like you just took an injection that could make you feel so content and safe thus making you feel you are capable of doing anything and could go through anything the world throws at you.

In our culture, unfortunately, we do not appreciate touch like how it should be and ended up, our feelings are suppressed because they are not expressed enough. Touch those people who are meant the world to you, those people you care so much, mean it. It doesn’t have to be that hard, you could just hold their arm dearly and look deep into their eyes and just smile. It won’t take you long though hahahaha. We should normalise a good amount of touch and of course, do not go around touching those non-mahrams. It’s haram.

Ma’qil b. Yasar R.A berkata bahawa Rasulullah saw brsabda yang bermaksud:

“Sekiranya dicucuk kepala salah seorang daripada kamu dengan jarum daripada besi, nescaya itu lebih baik buatnya berbanding dia menyentuh seorang wanita yang tidak halal baginya (bukan mahram).” Riwayat Al – Thabrani

Touch those people you love, either physically or through words. They deserve to know that they are so much loved and those good feelings within you deserved to be expressed.

To me personally, it’s always easy to make sure my words or actions are impactful; always mean it. From the deepest of your heart.

To be continued.

Consistency

So, hi. This is what came in my mind when I was lying still while trying my best to hold back the pain.

Few days ago, in our first class for Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC), my lecturer asked us, in our understanding, what is IMC?

IMC is basically combining all sorts of channels and platforms, whether it is traditional or non-traditional channel, in delivering a consistent message to specific target groups or non-target groups while allowing the consumers to interact with them.

What is the keyword here?

Consistency, yes.

Even in human relationships, consistency plays such a big role. How? Let me explain.

First, we need to know how to be consistent. We can be consistent with getting clear with our objectives, with what we want. Being consistent, does not mean being pushy. Remember, people never like it to feel pressured in any ways. Do it in a gentle manner, like how they want to be approached. How to know? Try to imagine yourself being in their shoes, would you like it if people keep pushing you, selling their products without considering what you feel even for a moment? We all are humans after all. Imagine how you want to be approached; then, try to apply it in the same way. Yes, every individual is different, so what works for you, might not work for others. How you want things to work, might not be how they want things to work. But remember, in general, people are just the same.

Second, when people start to feel comfortable with the way you approach them, there will be a slight interest in them, even if they do not notice. They will start to find out more about you, asking around, make a background check, anything to feed their curiosity. Slowly, trust will be built in them. They started to be more open.  

One thing you need to remember, certain people do not like it when you say something out loud. Something that both sides already know. Especially when things are still at the early stage. I don’t know to whom this applies but it could ruin the fun if the timing is wrong.

If there are 3 things I could state here, what people in general always crave for, they are; space, time and understanding.

When you see the trust is finally and fully built, that’s might be the time you tell your intention. Or, if you are a brand and the trust is finally built in consumers, they will say “Okay, let’s give their product a try since it does look promising and see if it’s worth it.”

So when people finally open up and give their trust to you, do you think they want to be disappointed? Heck no. And of course you want to do your best in serving and winning their hearts right?

But the problem is, over times, people tend to forget why they are doing it at the first place. They started to forget how hard it is to earn such trust and started to be nonchalant with their actions. As if they don’t care. This is what usually happened in human relationship, either in romantic relationship, or any kind of relationship. When we started to see their true colours, we get disappointed, as if we are so perfect and as if we don’t have the sides that people could be disappointed at. Funny isn’t it?

We tend to expect others to be perfect for us but forget we are all humans after all, the flaws are always there, and we forget the fact that love is all about accepting and to work things out together.

Or maybe we are never clear with what we want at the first place?

This is why the word ‘reminder’ exists, so those who forget can be reminded.

We seriously need to tone down with our never ending expectations. It’s never wrong to have expectations but we need to be realistic. We need to bear in our minds that we are dealing with people; ever-changing creatures, either in feelings or being. Let’s just give our best and if things don’t work the way we want, then it’s okay.

Review on Watsons UV Aqua Sun Protection Gel SPF50 PA++++

Watsons UV Aqua Sun Protection Gel SPF 50 PA++++ 50ml

UV filters used: Uvinul A Plus (absorbs UVA) and Uvinul T 150 (absorbs UVB). Both filters are highly photostable and Uvinul T 150 is known to be the most photostable UVB filter out there. 

Star ingredients🌟:

-Glycerin 

-Niacinamide 

-Adenosine

-Hyaluronic acid 

-Tocopherol 

✔️No whitecast 

✔️Fine absorption 

✔️Light gel-cream texture

✔️No noticeable scent

✔️Free from fragrance, essential oils, drying alcohol 

Real story: I was panicking when I almost ran out of my sunscreen; totally finished Yadah sunscreen and reluctant to finish the Keep Cool sunscreen just yet. My sister brought me to Watsons to get a new sunscreen, which I didn't know what to get for myself. I just skimmed through the shelves and the back of every sunscreen packaging for ingredients checking and this one really catched my attention. And I was more excited got to influence my sister to get herself a good sunscreen too! (finally!)

When we came back home, I studied the ingredients each and the more I searched for the ingredients used, the more I surprised. It feels so good when I applied on the back of my hand. Super moisturising and it feels rather gentle on my skin! The texture reminds me a lot of Keep Cool sunscreen, it feels so similar! 

On the next day, I used this sunscreen to confirm if I could call this Keep Cool sunscreen dupe. Everything is almost the same but the finishing couldn't beat Keep Cool even though it feels similar at the beginning of the application. But still it's not that bad tho. The time it touches your face, it feels like light gel cream which later turns watery. It finished a bit greasy for 2 and half fingers rule but when I top it with Innisfree No Sebum compact powder, the result is boom! I loveeee! Still, I'm gonna call this Keep Cool dupe. It feels soothing, hydrating and very moisturising!

One thing I noticed about this sunscreen, it softens my skin, even after I wash it off. It makes me want to touch my face even more. I believe this is because of ethylhexyl olivate; a skin conditioning fatty acid that derived from olive oil which it helps to keep important hydrating substances escaping from our skin.

This sunscreen used 3 olive oil based; ethylhexyl olivate, cetearyl olivate and sorbitan olivate, which we know how nourishing it is for people with dry skin. People with dry to super dry skin should check this out! 

🌟:3/5

I bought this at Watsons for RM28.80 during sales. You can get this either Watsons online or walk-in stores. Retail price is at RM33.

Garnier Ultra Light Sensitive Advanced UV Face Fluid SPF50 Broad Spectrum 40ml

UV Filters used: Ethylhexyl Salicylate (UVB filter), Ethylhexyl Triazone (UVB filter), Tinosorb S (broad spectrum filter), Avobenzone (UVA filter), Mexoryl XL (broad spectrum filter).

Key ingrdients: Glycerin, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Thermus Thermophillus Ferment.

Full ingredients: Aqua / Water Alcohol Denat. Diisopropyl Sebacate Silica Isopropyl Myristate Ethylhexyl Salicylate Ethylhexyl Triazone Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane Glycerin C12-22 Alkyl Acrylate/Hydroxyethylacrylate Copolymer Propanediol Drometrizole Trisiloxane Perlite Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Tocopherol Hydroxyacetophenone Hydroxyethylcellulose Sodium Hyaluronate Thermus Thermophillus Ferment Phenoxyethanol Triethanolamine Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate Caprylyl Glycol Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer Potassium Sorbate

-Free from any essential oils and fragrance but alcohol denat. Is second on the ingredients list

-Super fast absorption (should I say faster than Keep Cool sunscreen absorption?)

-Leaves no white cast at all

-Doesn’t feel heavy upon reapplication

-Doesn’t feel greasy at all even after 2 hours of application

-Has almost a matte finish with a nice velvety feels on skin

The texture is runny liquid and highly fast absorbing!

Thoughts: I like the fact that it is free from any essential oils and fragrance but mind you, this sunscreen contains high level of denatured alcohol, second on the list, thus contributing to the highly chemical smell. I experience no irritation for the first few times of usage and this sunscreen doesn’t sting my eyes or makes my eyes watery, which is great. But overtime, I could feel my skin feels burdened with the fact, this sunscreen is high in denatured alcohol. My skin felt less burdened compared to when I was using the Garnier Super UV Spot-Proof sunscreen (but still could feel it is burdened). Post-application, it doesn’t feel drying but the drying effect could be felt and seen overtime. It sucks up my skin moisture, making my skin feels so dry. I knew since day one that my skin couldn’t handle well with products that are high with drying alcohol but few weeks ago, my skin felt fine, back to its combination state and I thought maybe I should give it a try.

 Here’s the best thing. This sunscreen sinks in really fast, or maybe I should say faster than Keep Cool Soothe sunscreen? Thanks to the high percentage of denatured alcohol in it. Do you want to know how I apply this? I apply a really good amount of this sunscreen on my face and I DO NOT RUB IT IN, instead, I let it sink naturally while doing other things, like checking my emails or scrolling my instagram or just sitting while lost in deep thoughts. Since it took only few seconds to sink in, so I don't see why I should exert much effort to help it to sink in hahahaha. Then with the residue left, either I used beauty sponge or I used my fingers to even it out.

And mind you, this sunscreen is really, highly water resistant.

It has almost a matte finish but overtime, it turns to powdery matte. It doesn't feel powdery on my face, like how Anessa sunscreen felt like, it feels velvety, if it's the best word to describe the feel.

🌟:3/5

Sadly, I wouldn't repurchase this as it really took a toll on my skin moisture and I would trade my skin moisture with anything, doesn't matter I great it is, and I badly I want to love it.

O Allah, 

Guide me to learn to imitate the habit of twilight, taking time to open the well of colour that fosters the brightness of day.

May every ounce of fatigue felt only be meant to please You, please ease all of my works, grant me barakah and multiple rewards unseen.

Dan Tuhanku, 

Sisipkanlah dalam hatinya ketenangan, walau sepayah mana keadaan, 

Sisipkanlah dalam hatinya ketenangan walau sekeras mana pun ujian dan permudahkanlah jalannya menuntut ilmu demi ummah dan agama. 

Golongkanlah kami antara mereka yang sentiasa merasa rehat dalam solat.

Rahmatilah dia ya Allah. 

Rahmatilah kedua ibu bapa kami ya Allah. 

Maafkan kami atas keculasan tidak meletakkanMu yang pertama dalam banyak hal Ya Allah. Pimpinlah kami ya Allah, Ya Rahman, Ya Rahim.

Amin, amin, amin ya rabbal 'alamin.

Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is one of the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family, derived from milk, although most forms used in cosmetics (including skincare) are synthetic, means that, they are mostly formulate in labs. This is because, it is easier to formulate and stabilise.

It is usually in pH 3-4 and in concentrations between 5 and 12%, lactic acid exfoliates on the surface of the skin by breaking down the materials that hold all the dead skin cells together, allowing the dead skin cells to shed away and new skin cells to surface.

And this will help with better products absorption. 

Lactic acid may cause sensitivity in certain cases, even though it is not common. Starts slow! When it comes to actives, especially exfoliating acids, always remember to go slow. Most of the times, we always refuse to listen to our skin (been there, done that), and it’s always easy for us to over exfoliate and overdoing it especially when we started to see the result is quite promising, in the early first to second month of using.

Besides helps to brighten up skin and helps with uneven skin tone, lactic acid also has hydrating properties, just like other AHA family members.

More reasons to love lactic acid are, besides being a gentle exfoliator, which is great for sensitive, dry skin, it inhibits (hinders) tyrosinase, enzymes that break down tyrosine (basically an amino acid) which leads to melanin production. When more melanocytes (cells that produce melanin) produced, the dark spots will become darker. So when tyrosinase being inhibited, over time, you will see improvement on your hyperpigmentation.

I’ve mentioned earlier, lactic acid has hydrating properties, which basically means it is a humectant. This means it helps in retaining the moisture of your skin. So, here’s a tip. After cleanse your face, on a damp face, apply any hydrating toner you have and then, proceed with your leave-on chemical exfoliant. Let it absorbs into your skin for a good few minutes and end your routine with a good moisturiser. If you have serums to incorporate, apply them after applying the chemical exfoliant and end your routine with a good moisturiser.

But personally, I don’t prefer myself going more than 4 steps in my skincare regimen, especially when I use any chemical exfoliants that time.

Some of us might not know this but lactic acid also helps with fine lines by stimulating fibroblasts (cells which produce collagen and other fibres) and it also increases ceramides production in our skin.

Because of the size if bigger compared to the glycolic acid, some dermatologists recommend lactic acid to those with sensitive or dry skin. But surely, among AHA, mandelic acid is the most gentlest because its size is the biggest among other AHA members. It is said the gentlest because when it is biggest in size, it means it’s gonna penetrate less deeper, resulting in slight to no irritation at all.

Here’s the most important part, I believe. According to FDA, based on few studies conducted, it has been confirmed using/applying any AHAs to the skin shows it increased UV sensitivity.

Taken from FDA websites;

“After 4 weeks of AHA application, volunteers’ sensitivity to skin reddening produced by UV increased by 18 percent. However, the studies also indicated that this increase in sensitivity is reversible and does not last long after discontinuing use of AHA cream. One week after the treatments were halted, researchers found no significant differences in UV sensitivity among the various skin sites.”  

So what do we do when we incorporate AHA into our routine?

SUNSCREEN! REAPPLY YOUR SUNSCREEN! It’s frankly not really a big deal if you work your ass out for it to be a habit.

After all, know your limits, know your warrior, wear your sunscreen and listen well to your skin!  

 

Dear Klairs Youthful Glow Sugar Mask 110g

The scrub comes in a white sturdy glass jar.

It could be used as:

– Gentle exfoliator 

(After oil cleansed, take a scoop (or more) of this and gently massage all over your wet face to get a smoother, soft and better complexion).

–Cleansing balm

 (Scoop a good amount of this and mix it with any cleansing oil you have and give your dry face a good gentle massage for a good 1-2 minutes and wash it off).

–Wash off mask

 (Dampen your skin and apply this evenly and rinse it off after a good 10 min).

Star ingredients: Shea Butter(smoothing properties and amazing for people with dry skin), Raspberry Seed Oil(antioxidant), Jojoba Seed Oil (moisturising, soothes skin and amazing for dry skin) and Kaolin(detoxifying).

Thoughts: It smells exactly like a bubblegum! Yummy! It is in soft pink colour which comes from calamine. Frankly speaking, I always love using physical scrubs once a week or once in a fortnight. It feels so relaxing, and I love how soft and smooth my skin would feel afterwards. Things to bear in mind when you're using physical scrub is, you have to be extra gentle with your skin, since I believe nobody wants their face scrub to cause micro-tear to their precious skin. The thing about micro-tear is, over times, it weakens our skin barrier. 

Thank God this scrub only use fine sucrose granules which is not too abrasive for my skin. I just have to keep in mind to always be extra gentle while enjoying it being massaged on my skin. The pH of this gentle exfoliator is 7, neutral. 

This exfoliator doesn't turn my dry skin into super dry, it cleanses my skin well with no tight feelings afterwards. It's good enough. Most of the time, I can't help myself but forfeited to the temptation in using this exfoliator too, on the other parts of my body; my arms, legs especially. Right after shower, done with scrubbing, on half-wet skin, I will apply HA toner all over my body and proceed with moisturiser or body lotion. Love the result! 

Thank you NattaCosme for this opportunity to let me try this glow sugar mask from Klairs. It's such a great experience and yes, this is my very first Klairs product I ever tried.

Cahaya dan Cinta

Mereka menyamakan cinta itu dengan cahaya dan tidak dapat dinafikan itu ada kebenarannya.

Tapi sebentar,

Kita menjadi buta kerana terlalu terangnya cahaya itu atau kita yang memilih untuk lari daripada cahaya sebenar lalu menjadi buta?

Cahaya itu sentiasa ada, cuma kita,

p/s: Tiba-tiba letrik ada balik, terus hilang kata bhahaahha

#ainimentariwrites #jagajaga 

Koleksi Mentari Saya!

Langit Tuhan

Dada terasa sebu semacam lalu kepala diangkat dan didongak perlahan untuk melihat langit senja dengan harapan berjumpa tenang yang mungkin ada pada permukaan lautan luas langit Tuhan.

Air mata jatuh menitik- nitik, laju, entah sebab apa, mungkin campuran pelbagai rasa yang sudah sampai tahapnya. Dibiar, tidak diseka.

Langit Tuhan menjadi saksi akan banyak kejadian dan juga menjadi tadahan mendengar rintihan banyak orang. Bila rintihan yang diterima banyak hingga menjadi lambakan, langit berbisik pada awan; mari kita minta pada Tuhan agar turunkan hujan. Bagi meraikan mereka yang sedang kesedihan juga sebagai tanda mereka sedang dihiburkan dan ditenangkan. 

Kepingan- kepingan awan yang menghiasi langit Tuhan mengajarkan kita satu hal besar; untuk kekal berjalan, bergerak ke hadapan walaupun perlahan. 

Langit Tuhan adalah satu seni dan kurniaan yang tak terkalahkan kerana manusia takkan pernah mampu bosan walaupun dengan hanya memandang.

Langit Tuhan juga boleh menjadi perumpamaan yang baik untuk keampunan Tuhan yang Maha Luas seperti yang disebut dalam ayat 33 surah al- Anfal. 

Pelangi, awan, bulan, hujan dan langit Tuhan itu semua kurniaan yang menenangkan, bukan?

Bila langkah terasa payah, cubalah lihat langit Tuhan dan bertenang. Tarik nafas dan cuba ingat kembali, janji- janji Tuhan yang tak lama lagi akan tertunai. Yakin. 

Semoga kita kekal dalam pelukan rahmat Tuhan. 

Amin.

Yadah Oh My Sunscreen SPF 35 PA++ Review

UV filters used: Octinoxate, Titanium Dioxide, Octocrylene, Avobenzone.

Ingredients;

It contains bergamot oil which is an essential oil (if you have sensitive skin, you might want to skip this) which is why it smells citrusy (and I hate it). Avobenzone, an UV filter used known to bring irritation for some people. Watch out. And this sunscreen is not fungal acne friendly. 

Full ingredients:

Water, Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, Butylene Glycol, Cyclopenasiloxane, Glycerin, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Titanium Dioxide, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Octocrylene, Cyclohexasiloxane, Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Water, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract, Glycol stearate, Triceteareth-4 phosphate, Glyceryl Stearate, Potassium cetyl phosphate, PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-2 STEARATE, Silica, Acrylates/ C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, Glyceryl caprylate, Aminomethyl propanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Ethyl Hexanediol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Opuntia Humifusa Flower/Stem Extract, 1, 2-Hexanediol.

Texture;

White creamy texture that takes forever to set in. Major hate from me. I did apply a little then wait then apply some more then wait but no good result noticed. Had to use beauty blender to kick away the white cast. I hate it. You know it's not my HG sunscreen if beauty sponge is required.

Finishing;

Semi-matte finishing. Great finishing as it doesn't leave my skin looks oily and feel oily. I tried applying it on face arms and hands and it felt super moisturising (1 star for that). 

Availability;

It comes with 50ml and 20ml on Watsons, Guardian and Hermo. I bought this on Hermo, only for RM32.50 (exc postage) using my ePenjana. Okay la, takde la nak mengamuk sangat. It's always on sale on Hermo. The usual price for 50ml is RM65 on Hermo and Watsons. (You don't want to spend your hard-earned money on this kinda sunscreen). 

In my opinion, 3W Clinic sunscreen is better than this. Sorry not sorry. And did I mention the slight prickling on every beginning of the application? Major turn off. 

🌟:1/5

Keep Cool Soothe Bamboo Sun Essence SPF50+ PA++++

UV filters used: Uvinul A Plus (covers UVA) and Tinasorb S. (covers UVA & UVB). Both are high standards of UV filters as they are very photostable, hardly deteriorate in the presence of UV rays. 

Star ingredients ✨:

–40% of bamboo water packed with antioxidants and silica which is great to improve skin elasticity. Also known for soothing properties. 

–Niacinamide; for skin barrier, regulates oil production and etc. 

–Centella asiatica extract; skin-soothing, antioxidant and rich with amino acids. 

–Packed with 7 types of HA.

Full ingredients, taken from skinlibrary.co.uk:

Bambusa Vulgaris Water(401,800 ppm), Water, Diglycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Behenyl Alcohol, Lespedeza Capitata Leaf/Stem Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Forsythia Suspensa Fruit Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Thuja Orientalis Extract, Pinus Densiflora Extract, Bambusa Vulgaris Extract, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Polyisobutene, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Silica, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sorbitan Oleate, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Potassium Hyaluronate.

✅Fast absorption (takes only few seconds to skin in)

✅No white cast (fit all skin colours)

✅Very hydrating and moisturising (leaving my face plump)

✅Free from any essential oils or fragrance 

✅Doesn't feel heavy upon few layering

✅Healthy glow finish 

Finally a review on this highly rave sunscreen!

There's nothing much to say about this sunscreen as it ticks off every single thing you want from a sunscreen. When it comes to sunscreen, things that matter the most to me is the absorption rate and white cast. This sunscreen absorbs beautifully like a dream! The texture is a light white cream which later turns watery as you give a gentle rub to smoothen it over. Ahh, that moment, so satisfying for me. I always try hard to strictly use this only when I'm going out and I have to admit it's kinda hard to stop myself (I failed for so many times!) from reaching this sunscreen when I'm just staying at home! You don't wanna use a good, pricey sunscreen only when you're just staying inside! 

Okay let's talk on pilling. From my experience, I found out this sunscreen pills under my mask over time. I reapplied for the second time and later found out after my sister told me as she noticed. But it doesn't happen all the time, I was in Genting when I experienced that. Maybe because it's damp down there. And I was moving around a lot that day? Did anyone experience the same? No? 

Oh, I haven't mentioned that this sunscreen has cooling effect right? The coolling effect makes my breath feels hot, like I'm breathing under fire, I mean, in a funny way. It makes me wanting to breathe more rapidly and imagine I was a dragon. The cooling effect only stays for a good few minutes and it feels a lot more obvious and soothing (that makes me smile to myself) when you reapply in air-conditioned car. 

Overall, it is an amazing sunscreen, worth every penny you spent as the performance is on par with the price. It is deeply moisturising and soothing your skin. 

This will suit well with every skin type but people with dry skin, definitely need to check this out! 

It's available at:

Althea for RM76 

Shopee shop yoonybeauty.my for RM59.30 (during sale)

🌟:4.5/5

#ainimentarireview #ainimentarisunscreen #sunscreen #keepcoolmalaysia #keepcoolglobal #skincaremalaysia #protectyourskin

Garnier Super UV Spot Proof Sunscreen

UV filters used: Octinoxate, Tinosorb S, Univul A Plus, Mexoryl XL.

Star ingredients🌟: 

-Niacinamide, adenosine, tocopherol, ascorbyl glucoside, capryloyl salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid.

Thoughts: Let me be frank here. I kept seeing @biexbeautytrait posts on Garnier products on my timeline and it made me feel nostalgic in a way that I thought maybe I should give this brand another try. I used to love their toner when I was 15 and I did use some of their cleansers back in my teenage years. 

The moment it touched my skin, there's a cooling effect, but only for a few seconds, didn't linger like Keep Cool sunscreen. The cooling effect turned into an uncomfortable feelings that it hurts my face. It irritates my skin. I'm not sure why but maybe there's any ingredients in this sunscreen that my skin felt like it was too much for it to bear. But the feelings disappeared after few minutes of application.

I was fine with it as I bought this sunscreen just merely because I wanna try it out. I didn't take a glimpse at the ingredients before I purchased. In my experience, within 5 days of using it, I had come to a conclusion that it's a tone up sunscreen as over time, it toned up my skin, em, pretty obvious (in a way that it was way too much for me). The tone up effect didn't suit my medium tan skin tone. It always made me feel awkward to see myself in the mirror while having it on. 

It claimed that this sunscreen is not oily, not greasy and not sticky. It's greasy (not 2 fingers rule friendly tho), makes my face a bit oilier over time yet not sticky. I didn't bother to top it with any no-sebum pact powder or any loose powder as I used it only when I was at home. You can try it or just take any beauty blender to dab dab dab to kick away the extra dewiness that you don't need. This sunscreen contains denatured alcohol which could be drying for some people, especially when it is in the first six in the ingredients list. And the fragrance is pretty strong and it smells like the normal Garnier Light Complete range. I always find it is unnecessary to have fragrance in my skincare products, I prefer them to smell like chemical or having no scent at all. 

I would not recommend this for people with oily and sensitive skin. I purchased this on Shopee, Garnier official store for RM23 during sale. Normal price would cost you RM29.90. I haven't seen it in any drugstores yet, it's a new one from Garnier, but maybe by this time, it's already available nationwide. 

🌟:1.5/5