La Roche-Posay Hydraphase UV & Anthelios Melt-in Cream Review

Today's sunscreen review is based on my husband's experience. He has oily skin and used these products for an extended period of time now. (Until he recently switch to Neutrogena)

La Roche-Posay Hydraphase UV Rehydration Intensive SPF 30

Product spread out

This sunscreen's active ingredient is Mexoryl, one of the UV absorbers used in sunscreen. It does not claim to have anything else other than sun protection and non-comedogenic.

If you have sensitive skin this might not be for you. It is very thick and tends to leave a bit of oil film after application. The sunscreen is also scented and does not smell like the typical sunscreen.

Cons:

• Not suitable for sensitive skin
• Thick and quite oily, might cause breakouts for some
• Leaves skin with an oil film
• Heavily scented

The next sunscreen is also from La Roche-Posay, but I believe this is their newer collection.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Cream SPF 60

Product spread out

This sunscreen has a higher protection, however that is insignificant as you are meant to reapply every 2 hours for maximum sun protection. 

This sunscreen is noticeably thicker and also scented like the one mentioned before. Active ingredient is also the same product. When my husband was using this sunscreen, his face was extremely oily all the time and quite disgusting when he comes home in the evening. I do not recommend this product if you have oily skin. 

Cons:

• Thick formula, leaves skin very heavy
• Oily and creates oil film
• Scented, might not be suitable for sensitive skin

I have not personally tried these myself because I don't like scented face products. If you have tried them and have similar or better result please comment. 

Thank you and see you tomorrow!

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen SPF 60 Review

Summer is getting really hot in Toronto! I love the heat though so I can't really complain :)

If you have read my previous blog posts, I'm sure you might have noticed that I'm very much into sun protection. It is super important to prevent your skin from being burnt and potentially turn into melanoma! At the same time, protecting yourself from the sun is also the best way to prevent aging skin. 

When I used to live in Sydney, sun protection education was very widespread due to the broken Ozone layer in Australia. It does seem like Canadians are not so much into that, but nonetheless, if you are reading this, stop tanning and start protecting your skin! 

I have been loyal to my Asian sunscreens for many years, but because I'm running out of them and they are also hard to obtain, I've decided to pick up something that is available at the local drugstore.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen SPF 60

This sunscreen costs about $14 to $16 depending where you go. It claims to be oil-free, non greasy, water and sweat proof, gentle for sensitive skin, fragrance-free, and also non-comedogenic.

The sun screen is a little bit thick, so a little goes a long way. Make sure you apply enough otherwise it would have no use againts the UVA and UVB rays. 

Spread out

So as you can see, the little bit that I squeezed out from the tube can spread out quite far. It is easy to blend and dries in less than a minute after application. It also does not have the sun screen scent (that I hate), or any scent as a matter of fact.

I wore this out, although I was not exposed under the sun too much. I applied my usual Revlon Photo Ready Foundation in Nude on top of the sunscreen and it looks just like usual. No changes to my make up application required.

Skin condition after 10 hours of wear

Because I was not exposed to the sun most of the time, nor I went into the water or sweat, I did not reapply. Above is my skin after 10 hours of wear. There is no noticeable oil or any weird white cast.

I know some people think that this sun screen is too thick, but I'm not sure if they have changed the formula but this is definitely easy to spread. I am definitely going to continue using it. 

Keep in mind that I have normal to dry skin. My husband has been using this product for over a week now and he has really oily skin, he seems to be loving it because it does not leave his skin with an oil film like the La-Roche Posay one that he was previously using. 

In summary,

Pros:

• Light weight
• Easy to spread/ blend
• Non oily
• Fragrance free

Cons:

• Quite expensive

Leave a comment and let me know what other sunscreens you love! I would love to try new ones when mine runs out.

See you tomorrow!

Favourite Asian Drug Store/ Affordable Make Up

For some of us, access to Asian cosmetics might be easier than others. If you are one of the lucky ones, please take the opportunity to drop by an Asian cosmetics store to find the products mentioned below. If you are from Asia, you are able to find the cosmetics in your local drug store or designated brand outlet in your shopping mall.

The reason I have this post dedicated to Asian make up as some of us have difficulty to get cosmetics that compliment our skin tone. Asian brands are often designed to enhance our yellow tone skin colour and less defined bone structure.

Etude House Miss Tangerine Sweet Shower Lips Lipsticks

Swatches

Unfortunately there are no specific name or code listed on the packaging itself, but this line has about 5 colours in total. They are moisturising and gives a gloss like finish upon application.

Etude House "I Love Paris" Lipstick in number 3

Perfect nude lipstick for Asian/ Yellow skin tone! Ideal for everyday wear. It is non drying, lasting power is decent.

Water Strong W Eyebrow Pencil and Eyebrow Liner

FTTB: Pencil swatch; liquid swatch

Brows are the most annoying but also most crucial part of the face! Due to my sparse eyebrows, I've been looking for the ideal brow product forever. I've tried brow powder, brow pencil, eyeshadow and everything in between. Currently I'm using this product as it gives a natural finish and does not smear off if I accidentally touched my eyebrows during the day. The liquid part provides a semi-permanent stain on your skin, suitable for pool/ beach wear. 

p/s: very difficult to find this eyebrow pencil. I purchased in while I lived in Japan. If anyone knows how else I can get my hands on more, please leave a comment :) Thanks!

Biore UV Aqua Sunscreen

This is an alcohol based sunscreen that provides a smooth finish to your face. I am a huge believer of sun protection and this product is good for the days when I like to have light make up on the face. It does not leave an oily residue, however if you are allergic to alcohol products on your skin, this is definitely a pass for you.

L'oreal UV Perfect Longlasting UVA/UVB Protector

I've used this product over 7 years. Although it leaves a slightly shiny finish, it acts as a great make up base for your foundation to adhere on it. It is slightly expensive but can be found in Duty Free zone in all airports. 

Majorlica Majorca Eyeshadow in BE286

This particular colour from Majorlica Majorca is absolutely beautiful on all skin tone! The pigmentation is great and long wearing. One thing to note about Asian brand eyeshadows is that they are generally more glittery or shiny rather than matt finish. 

Sweets Sweets Blusher in MP2

I purchased this is Japan for 720YEN in the local drug store. This brand is very affordable and has great quality. Usually I do not use the brush that comes in the palette but this one has served me well! 

ZA Brightening 2 Way Powder

Last but not least, the ZA Brightening 2 Way Powder is what a lot of people swear by! You can apply it dry or use it with a wet sponge for heavier coverage. It leaves a very natural finish and provides medium coverage. I usually wear this on humid days as it stays put on the skin.

Thank you for visiting my website and stay tune for tomorrow's update!