Can you #DoTheAHHHH?

One of the best things about living in a tropical country is that it’s practically summer all year long. (It may rain from time to time, but generally we almost always have hot weather.) I know it’s a must to apply sun protection daily to reduce the risk of UV-related skin damage, but I just can't stand the feel of sunscreen lotions for everyday use. I still have this thought that they're just meant for the beach. With the intense heat nowadays, it’s about time that sunscreens offer more than just protection. 

I'd love to introduce to you all Nivea Sun Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Mist – the first aerosol sunscreen from NIVEA that combines immediate sun protection and pleasurable freshness.

Nivea Sun Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Mist (P550.00)

Nivea Sun Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Mist has a unique cooling technology which leaves skin with a pleasantly refreshed and silky feeling. Its continuous spray action releases fine droplets that give a non-greasy, even layer of sun protection all over the body, without feeling sticky or leaving white marks. The aerosol spray makes it easy to apply and works on all angles so that even hard to reach places get protected. The pleasurable refreshing sensation delivers a burst of welcomed freshness, especially on really hot days. Now, applying sunscreen need not be a drag anymore - it's actually a refreshing pleasure!

Tell me, can you #DoTheAHHHH?

For the rightfully curious, #DoTheAHHHH is Nivea’s innovation for sun protection that’s made refreshingly fun through a video series capturing individuals in mid-sensation as they spray on and experience Nivea Sun Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Mist SPF50. Reinforcing that sun protection can be surprisingly refreshing, it gives quite the new take to fun under the sun as it protects the skin from harmful UV rays while pleasurably cooling the skin.

The country's top media and society influencers sure can, as they showed us how to act cool and feel refreshed during this year's Nivea Summer Blast 2013 held in Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan. The two-day event spanned the gamut of various outdoor activities for its guests, but the Nivea Summer Blast participants especially got a kick from spraying on their newest sun protection must-have, the Nivea Sun Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Mist SPF50 – and they were caught on video! Housed on the official Nivea Philippines YouTube channel, and on its Facebook page, attendees from the event were spotted in their best AHHHH moments as they enjoyed the refreshing feeling of Nivea Sun Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Mist SPF50.

Video 1: 

Video 2:

Nivea Sun Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Mist comes in 200ml aerosols with SPF 50. It's reasonably priced at P550.00, and is currently available in all leading department stores, drug stores, and supermarkets.

Now, think you're up to #DoTheAHHHH? Sure you can! Do your best AHHHH moment and you might just get a chance to get a P50,000 shopping spree from American Eagle Outfitters or win Ray-Bay sunglasses. Visit NIVEA Philippines on Facebook and click on the #DoTheAHHHH app for more details.

Love,

Helen

Gifts & Hauls: Beauty Edition

I don't usually receive this much beauty stuff on a normal weekend, and I am truly grateful! All these stuff I either received from events, as prizes, or for review. But nevertheless, expect to see reviews on these on my upcoming posts.

Last weekend, I attended another Belle de Jour (BDJ) Rendezvous, entitled "Street Chic". I wanted to blog about the event, but when I came a few minutes to 1PM, the event was already starting and the venue was packed so I couldn't take nice pictures from my seat. Nevertheless, I will try to be an early bird on the next BDJ Rendezvous so I write about it too! :D

Photo Credit: Belle de Jour Power Planner

As a tradition, no Bella leaves empty handed every BDJ event. Each loot bag has a back issue of either Women's Health or Cosmopolitan, a Goody hair tie, samples from Physiogel, Black Beauty, Pantene, and Kiehls, plus some cash vouchers and flyers from brand partners.

BDJ Rendezvous Loot

After filtering the stuff, these are the ones that I will definitely use. Haha! (Thanks so much for ALL the goodies, BDJ!)

But wait, there's more...

SkinWhite Classic Set

BDJ had a raffle during the event where most (if not all) Bellas won something from their generous brand partners. I won a set of skincare products from SkinWhite! I don't know why I keep on winning whitening products, but it's okay. Haha! My favorite part of this prize would have to be the bag. Kidding! I'm most interested in the lotion and soap, but I'm really liking the bag. It's cute even if it's blue.

All BDJ 2013 Planners have coupons that entitle each Bella to a FREE Beauty Travel Set and Kolours Luster No-Ammonia DIY Hair Dye. You can either claim the items at their office somewhere in Taguig or during a BDJ event. Taguig is too far from my home, so I was very happy when they announced that we could claim the free items on the event venue (which was in Shangri-La Mall).

Beauty Travel Set (with products from Hygienix, SkinWhite, and Vitress)

Kolours Luster Demi-Permanent Hair Dye

I believe all shades from this hair color line are darkish/natural, and I received the darkest one which is Pamper Me Brown. Who knows, I might want to darken my hair sometime, and when I do, I'd use this and give you an update!

Bejewelled Purple Pen

This one was a super sweet present from my BDJ friend Lala! I met her way back 2010 during my first BDJ Rendezvous. She designed this pen herself! She was my seatmate then, and we've been friends ever since. (Thank you for this, Lala! ♥)

Just when I thought I've received enough beauty stuff to call it a day already, I saw a package waiting for me when I got home.

Kerastase Cristalliste Set

I finally received the Kerastase Cristalliste set I won from Kerastase Philippines last March. They're having a new promo wherein you could also their Elixir Ultime 24K Gold products so you better join ASAP!

Nivea Body UV Whitening Serum SPF 25 PA++

Nivea Sun Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Mist SPF 50

I also received products from Nivea Philippines for review. I'm all about caring for my skin (and am totally vain with it), so I'm excited to try these out! (Special thanks to Mikki and Castro PR for sending these over!)

Thank you for everything! To my readers, I may be sick right now and also dead tired from work, but that won't stop me from writing. Till the next post! :)

Love,

Helen

Krispy Kreme Salted Caramel Doughnut

Krispy Kreme's Original Glazed will always be my one true doughnut love, but for now I've found a new doughnut fling. Haha! It's a fling since this flavor is just available for a limited time only (until June 23, 2013).

Krispy Kreme's newest line is called Delectable Desserts, and it features 2 flavors: Kreme Brulee and Salted Caramel. I don't know about you, but I sure am a fan of anything salted caramel. I can't even recall when I started liking that blend of salty and sweet, but I'm definitely hooked!

Krispy Kreme Salted Caramel Doughnut

Krispy Kreme's Salted Caramel Doughnut is a masterpiece. It has caramel iced on top of the doughnut, plus some sprinkle of rock salt, and another drizzle of sweet caramel sauce. Inside the doughnut is a delicate touch of caramel cream (this part is not too sweet). (Please correct me if I'm wrong, but this doughnut is the most caramel-ly a doughnut can get.) But if you think it's sugar overload, let me tell you it's not. It's just...sugar plus a bit of salt overload! Mwahaha! :D It's sweet alright (since that's what doughnuts are supposed to be), but the salt balances out the sweetness. It's amazing how the flavors contradict then blend in your mouth. I. just. love. it.

You have to try this out. It's really good! :D

Love,

Helen

Tony Moly Tomatox Magic White Massage Pack

As I may have mentioned in my past post, I've been on overtime work for almost 3 straight months already. Work has its way of creeping into my skin and making it look dull, since I sit in front of the computer all day, but I still prefer this over fieldwork any day. Ha! :D During times like these, I cheat my way to glowing skin using face masks. One I've sampled recently is Tony Moly Tomatox Magic White Massage Pack. It's just a sample sachet, so this review would just be a skincare quickie.

Tony Moly Tomatox Magic White Massage Pack (P548.00)

About the product:

• Massage cream and pack with instant brightening effects
• Hydration and protection to maintain a healthy skin
• Whitening and detox
• Anti-oxidants prevent aging

Contains: Tomato extract, Lemon extract, kiwi extract, White tea extract, Pearl Powder Recommended for: Skin that doesn’t go well with makeup, people who don’t have time for a pack at night

Directions: Apply sufficient amount (avoiding the eyes and lips), massage for 1-2 minutes, and wait for 5-10 minutes. After that, wash off with lukewarm water.

I'm used to mess-free face mask sheets, but I couldn't resist trying out this one because of its skin-brightening properties. Just what I needed!

Pros:

• The full-sized product of this has the most adorable packaging. (It's shaped like a real tomato!)
• It has a creamy texture that doesn't drip of cause mess. You can rub/massage the product on your face with ease.
• The product smells really nice and fresh, not really like tomatoes.
• I didn't have skin irritations or allergies with this.*
• I used this at night, and upon washing off, I immediately noticed my skin looking brighter. I went to sleep afterwards (not earlier than my usual time), and when I woke up, it looked as it I had slept for long. My skin was glowing and more even, no kidding. I wish I had pictures to prove it, but this sachet was good for only one use.
• One remarkable thing was the night after I used this product, while I was still at work, my colleague mentioned to me that I didn't look a bit tired (even at 7PM, and my shift started 8AM!). And this was the only product I added to my routine.

Cons:

• Upon application, I felt a slight tingling feel on my skin. It disappeared in a few minutes, but I didn't develop any skin redness or irritation.
• The effect is temporary though, as it lasted only for 1 day for me.

Will I repurchase? Maybe. It was love at first try!

Available at all Tony Moly stores and kiosks (at department stores) nationwide.

Have you also bitten into the Tomatox craze? How did this product work out for you?

Love,

Helen

Snoe Hair Heroes Super Fresh Texturizing Beach Waves

Most shampoo commercials show that only straight hair can be beautiful, but I'm a firm believer of embracing imperfection. I'd rather have tousled, messy, and sexy beach waves all year round. You can call me a curly-hair advocate! That being said, I've always on the lookout for new curl-boosting products in the market, and one that I'm LOVING right now is Snoe Hair Heroes Super Fresh Texturizing Beach Waves.

Snoe Hair Heroes Super Fresh Texturizing Beach Waves (P299.00)

Sage Tea Tree & Peppermint. Sea salt. Moringa.
Softly separates for shiny, sexy, mussed waves
Heat Safe
1.69 fl. oz. /50 ml

About the product:

[click photo to enlarge]

Hair Heroes Super Fresh Texturizing Beach Waves adds sexy, tousled waves and a light matte finish to any hair type. This defining spray will bring out the tousled, textured look you can only usually get after swimming in the sea. Your hair will still feel soft to touch but with that added bounce, definition, and a body to die for. The added moringa extract will help give moisture and shine and also help protect and repair your hair against free radicals. You can even use this on dry hair to add texture for that perfect Beach Babe look!

Directions:

Shake well before using. Simply spray over towel dried hair. Gently blow dry and “scrunch.” For an ultimate beach goddess look, just leave hair to dry naturally. It’s as simple as that! This Sea Salt Spray also works amazingly on your hair when it’s dry or tied back in a bun.

See the 2 separate layers inside the bottle? For this sea salt spray to work properly, you'd have to shake the bottle first before spraying.

How I use this product:

1. Towel dry hair until it doesn't drip.
2. Shake the product to mix the formula, and spray 3x (or more) on the palm of my hand.
3. Use my hands to apply the product on the hair below my ear level up to the tips.
4. Scrunch, scrunch, scrunch!
5. Clip my hair into a low bun and go. (I commute to work after this step.)
6. Unravel my hair and appreciate the super fresh, honeydew melon-like scent. (For when I reach the office - first stop is the ladies room!)
7. Twirl my hair inwards and outwards (like a baliw). Haha!
8. Just let my hair air-dry with the office air-conditioner.

All those steps result to this:

This is my good-girl hair look, and this is how it usually looks when I'm in the office. If I want it to look wilder or more tousled, I just flip my hair over for volume, and scrunch like there's no tomorrow - no twirling.

Pros:

• This product smells soooo good. It manages to make my hair smell super fresh (like honeydew melon) even after commuting.
• I love how enhances my naturally wavy hair - it's versatile in a way that it can make my hair look wavier or tamer (depending on how I finger-style it). Remember, scrunch for tousled messy waves; twirl for tamed curls.
• It has a semi-matte finish, which looks super natural since compared to shiny/glossy hair serums.
• It's non-sticky! (Another pro over hair serums.)
• It has moringa extracts to moisturize, add shine, protect and repair your hair.
• You can reapply during the day, and even use this on dry hair to add texture.

Cons:

• Packaging is not sealed.
• It can be considered pricey because of it's small size (P299.00 for 50ml).

Would I repurchase? YES!

Available in all Snoe outlets nationwide. For the list of stores, click here.

Looks like this one is my favorite Hair Hero. Which product is your favorite among all of the Hair Heroes? :)

Love,

Helen

Merry Moo! Artisan Ice Cream

Ice cream is such a treat, especially with the crazy hot weather we're experiencing every single day. My colleague spotted Merry Moo Artisan Ice Cream in Mezza Norte, and of course, I had to try it out!

Merry Moo Artisan Ice Cream

Merry Moo Artisan Ice Cream is made from fresh Laguna dairy. They're homemade in small batches, and they only use the freshest ingredients available. What I liked about Merry Moo the most is that they have fun, unique flavors which you can't find in other ice cream stores!

Cookie Butter | Horlicks | Strawberry Shortcake | Cookies and Brownies | Candied Bacon

Milo | Sea Salt Caramel | Butterscotch Pecan

Their best-selling flavors are Sea Salt Caramel and Earl Grey Tea. You can ask to try out the flavors first before ordering.

Horlicks (P75.00)

Classic malted milk flavor

A cup goes for about P70.00 to P75.00, depending on the flavor. What I noticed first amongst all things was the texture of the ice cream - it's very dense and thick, never watery. Since I'm a fan of vanilla ice cream (or anything milky), my order was a cup of Horlicks ice cream. Since it was my first encounter with a malted milk flavor, I was bracing myself for some Maltesers-level of sweetness, but it turns out, this one is just mildly sweet and ultra creamy. I loved this flavor, and I'm so looking forward to try out their bestselling Sea Salt Caramel next.

If you happen to drop by Mezza Norte, do try Merry Moo! I'm sure you'll find a unique flavor from their amazing lineup that will be a sure hit. For more information, check out Merry Moo Ice Cream on Facebook.

Love,

Helen

Uniqlo Announces the Winners of the “U-SHOP. U-WIN.” Facebook Promo

UNIQLO, Japan’s leading global fashion brand, announced the winners of its newest Facebook promo, “U-SHOP. U-WIN,” at the opening of SM Aura Premier, the SM mall chain’s newest and first mall at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

From left: Katsumi Kubota, Chief Operating Officer, Fast Retailing Philippines Inc.; Winners of iPhone 5, Michael Allen Celestial and Marlon So; Geraldine Sia, General Manager, Fast Retailing Philippines Inc.

UNIQLO’s “U-SHOP. U-WIN.” is a Facebook-based game application that allows the fans of Uniqlo Philippines to virtually purchase items from UNIQLO’s Spring/Summer 2013 collection found at the UNIQLO Spring/Summer page within the UNIQLO Web page and get more shopping points for them to buy more UNIQLO items. Shoppers can win instantly just by choosing their “lucky” cashier upon checking out after shopping. At the end of the promo period, major prizes were raffled off to all shoppers who played the game. Players who logged and played more during the promo period had more chances of winning the major prizes. The promo, which lasted for two weeks, featured several exciting prizes up for grabs for avid UNIQLO shoppers.

Here are the winners of the "U-SHOP. U-WIN." promo.

Winners of a Tablet Phone:

1. Harlene Echinique from Pasay City
2. Monica Salvacion from Quezon City
3. Philsen Padilla from Malate, Manila
4. Angela Lustre from Biñan, Laguna
5. Elmer Rayo from Taguig City
6. Mary Joy Puno

Winners of a Summer Getaway for 2:

1. Jaime Atienza, Jr. from Davao City
2. Jose Mari Jurado from Meycauayan, Bulacan
3. Recarlo Concepcion from Sampaloc, Manila

Winners of a Canon DSLR Camera:

1. Kristine Joy de Vera of Kaingin Road, Balintawak
2. Randy Sureta from Novaliches, Quezon City

Winners of a brand new iPhone 5:

1. Chrischelle Osicos from Makati City
2. Michael Allen Celestial from Sta. Rosa, Laguna
3. Marlon So from Quezon City
4. Roland Savellano from Quezon City

The awarding ceremony for UNIQLO’s “U-SHOP. U-WIN” Facebook app promo was preceded by the opening of UNIQLO’s 3rd store in the country. Like Uniqlo Philippines on Facebook so you don't miss out on their upcoming promotions!

Love,

Helen

Hey! Fishy Fishy Beer-Battered Fish & Chips at Mezza Norte

I have this attachment towards fish dishes, and I don't know why. Given the choice of chicken, pork, beef, or fish dishes, I'd go for the latter in a heartbeat! This could seriously be the reason why I'm not gaining weight no matter how much I eat.

When I went to Mezza Norte with some of my colleagues last Friday, we all ordered different types of food - Japanese rice toppings, Italian pasta, Mexican burrito, and of course, Fish & Chips - which was mine. I spotted Hey! Fishy Fishy and ordered it on the spot, without remembering that I could try out samples first. I had my sample fix while waiting for my order since I was already hungry.

Hey! Fishy Fishy Menu

Their fish is battered using San Miguel Pale Pilsen, which gives is a unique and distinct tenderness and flavor.

 

Bayou (P200.00)

A delectable sampler of our fish, shrimp, chips, squid, chicken, and onion rings. A must try!

 

Cheesy Fries

Fish and Chips (P120.00 for 2 large pieces)

Crispy and golden brown beer-battered fish fillet served with Potato Wedges and Tartare Sauce

Fish and Chips (P120.00)
 

I ordered a serving of Fish and Chips. The order came out a lot smaller than the sample order on display, but I still loved it anyway. This serving is just right and it satisfied my empty tummy. Fish and Chips are best eaten immediately while it's still hot and crisp. I loved how soft and tender the fish is inside. The tartar sauce goes very well with the fish. The chips balanced out the saltiness of the fish, and I asked for extra cheese sauce to go with my chips. Yummy!
 

On my next trip to Mezza Norte, I'll order either Fish and Chips again, or Bayou! Like Hey! Fishy Fishy on Facebook for more information and updates.

Love,

Helen 

The Body Shop's Mind-Blowing Anniversary Sale

The Body Shop is celebrating their 17th birthday with a MIND-BLOWING SALE which started last April 30, 2013 (right after their Members-Only Sale) on ALL The Body Shop stores nationwide. For this sale, you can get some of their items at 70% off, plus stock up on their limited edition bath and body products at 40% off (which you'll see below)!

This time, I'll be unwrapping the gift I received from The Body Shop last weekend.

My present came in a wooden crate that's made by Tahanang Walang Hagdanan. These crates are made from wooden pallets and are used to ship The Body Shop products from the United Kingdom. These eco-friendly crates also used to display their products in store, and will be a nice addition to my room so I could keep my stuff more organized.

Inside the box were the Brazil Nut Shower Cream and Body Butter. I love the scent of the Brazil Nut range, it smells almost good enough to eat! The scent reminds me of chocolate, mocha, and caramel. My mom thought it smelled like cake icing. You get the hint. ;) If you LOVE foodie scents, then by all means, drop by your nearest The Body Shop store to check these out!

Photo Credit: The Body Shop International

The Brazil Nut bath and body range is back by popular demand, alright! The only catch is that it's limited edition, but you can stock up all you want since all products from this range is currently at 40% off at the Mind-Blowing Sale!

Almond Body Butter (P417.00)

Blueberry Body Butter (P417.00)

For this season, grab The Body Shop’s limited edition products! Stock on the limited edition Brazil Nut, Almond, and Blueberry Body Butters.

Peach Shower Gel (P237.00)

Peach Body Lotion (P450.00)

Peach Body Butter (P417.00)

Raspberry Shower Gel (P237.00)

Raspberry Puree Body Lotion (P450.00)

Raspberry Body Butter (P417.00)

Feel refreshed after an afternoon of activities with the Peach and Raspberry bath and body range.

White Gardenia Body Cream (P537.00)

White Gardenia Body Mist (P417.00)

White Gardenia Eau de Toilette (P477.00)

Start the White Gardenia trend! Moisturize with the body cream and layer on the body mist or Eau de Toilette for a lasting floral scent.

Apple Blossom Shower Gel (P270.00)

Apple Blossom Body Lotion (P450.00)
 

Apple Blossom Eau de Toilette (P477.00)

Freshen up with the Apple Blossom range! This is my personal favorite among all the sale items. You may check out my review of the Apple Blossom Shower Gel and Eau de Toilette here.

As an added ANNIVERSARY TREAT, a P2,000.00 single-receipt purchase gets you an eco-mug designed by student-winners from University of Santo Tomas College of Fine Arts and Design and De La Salle College of Saint Benilde School of Design and Arts (just like the one I received from the LYB Members Oly Give Joy Party).

Now we can all stay fresh, radiant, and glowing this summer with these products from The Body Shop. I would love to read about your sale finds! Feel free to share with me your Mind-Blowing Sale experience in the comment box below. :)

Love,

Helen