Monday, 17 September 2012

[R.e.v.i.e.w] Can L'Oreal Youth Code Serum Save Your Youth? (1)


You may know that L'Oreal Youth Code Serum is the sister version of Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Concentration, one of the so-called advanced anti-aging gene therapy products (another one is Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair, short for ANR) . With similar ingredients and a lovely price (€18, 30ml), Youth Code is nearly three times less expensive than Genifique. Not long till it's released, L'Oreal youth Code has become the new Rock Star. A lot of people aged from 20-45 are talking about it, using and reviewing it. Before I start, I read people's reviews from Europe, US and Asia, over 95% users highly recommend it for its high cost-performance ratio, amazing effect and low price. Compared with Lancome, most of users would prefer to pay for L'Oreal.

That is how it comes to me. Two of my friends are the royal fans of Youth Code Serum. They introduced it to me and insisted I should have a try. So I purchased it from the closest supermarket for 169kr with 15% off (coupon from the supermarket, not from L'Oreal). I also added the Youth Code Night Cream in my shopping cart for 129kr (-15%). In total I paid 253.3kr, equal €30. They were really cheap. I was kind of excited about the price. I tried immediately that night before bed.



Firstly I noticed the Youth Code Serum European version adopts a straw instead of a pump. That doesn't really make any difference between functions except it simply shows much closer to Lancome and Estee Lauder, who used the same packages. High-Tech? Alright! The texture is light and smooth. Grey-white transparent color looks like rice soup, no smell. Everything seems alright so far. I did three drops on face, and another two drops on the neck. It was very easy to massage to the whole skin. As I have the habbit to apply night cream as the end step of the skin care procedure every day, I also tried the Youth Code Night Cream that night, a rare light-purple color cream with a thicker texture than the serum, slightly chemical smell, not bad. Then I went to bed with a happy mood. The next morning when I woke up and stood in the bathroom, I saw a different me from the mirror. It was AMAZING! My forehead was so bright and smooth like i was still sixteen with the best age of skin. Skin became softer than before. Small winkles on face went invisible, even the stubborn neck winkles went lighter. The parts I wasn't happy with was a red mark (been there for half a year and i don't know how to get rid of) on my right cheek and my dark under-eye circles still there. Slight red blood under the skin can still be seen on the cheek and around the nose but went apparently lighter. But I couldn't ask for more than how it was by using this little magical bottle only once. You have no idea how surprised I was because I have been using a lot of skin care products for ten years, none of them made such visible changes through just one night. Moreover, it is so affordable!



After 10 days applying of youth Code Serum every morning and night (night cream was only used at night), I couldn't help falling in love with it. I believe my skin has been changed with someone younger, only a little bit muscle and skin lifting job, am going to be back to 18 again. Then I understood why everybody was crazy about it and I decided to keep using it! I called my husband to buy some more back home because I was informed the KICKS (largest Swedish make-up store) was promoting Youth Code Serum for only 158kr in just a limited time. Well, my husband then asked me, are you sure you wanna buy that many? what exactly inside to make it so good? A terrific question! Why is it so good? I suddenly remembered skin experts once told me about the collegan, something (supposed to be natural) you can take to make your skin young, your hair and nails shining. If the effect of one brand of collegan appears in a very very short time, that usually means it contains hormones which should NOT been add into collegan. Then you should keep away from this brand. So, soon I was a little scared. Does the Youth Code Serum contain any hormonal ingredients to make my skin so good?!

I then searched the ingredients of Youth Code Serum online (there are so many different versions and you never know which is the right one), using the website CosDNA to analyse. The result shows, actually there are some ingredients without any safety estimation information from CIR, RTECS and FDA. One of them is Bifida Ferment lysate, the key activity element also included in Lancome Genifique and Estee Launder ANR, was discovered to help the skin repair itself? But why no information about it? Is it because this is a new creation (Lancome and L'Oreal also claims that) with new ingredients? I am not an expert in medicine or chemistry, as a normal customer, I started to doubt  the safety of these ingredients.Who can proof they are completely safe for a long-term usage? Until I found this post (click it to read what the PICU doctor Christine researched about Youth Code Serum) from 15 Minute Beauty. I sort of got my answer.

The story is not ending yet, there will be a (2) coming back soon.......Thank you to stop by, as always!

Friday, 14 September 2012

[R.e.v.i.e.w] Dermalogica Trip-Active Cleanse


I received a sample of Dermalogica Trip Active Cleanse some days ago. Dermalogica is known by the natural high-quality skin care products without cheap and harmful artificial fragrance. Before using it, I analysed the ingredients as usual. The result shows most of them are mild and safe except PEG-100 Stearate and Potassium Hydroxide.

PEG-100 Stearate is said a "moderate to hazard ingredient depending on usage". Cosmetic formulations containing these ingredients should not be used on damaged skin. Here is a quotation about the risk of PEG-100 Stearate:

"The EWG issues warnings regarding: cancer, developmental and reproductive toxicity, contamination concerns, irritation, and organ system toxicity.

PEGs (including PEG 100 Stearate) can contain harmful impurities, including: Ethylene Oxide, known to increase the incidences of uterine and breast cancers and of leukemia and brain cancer, 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen; PAHs, known to increase the risk of breast cancer.

Products and formulas containing PEG 100 Stearate should not be used on broken or irritated skin. Although PEGs are considered safe for use topically on healthy skin, studies showed that patients suffering from severe burns were treated with PEG-based antimicrobial cream; this treatment resulted in kidney toxicity. "

Though Potassium Hydroxide itself contains strongly alkaline and corrosion, it has been widely used in shampoo, cream and lotion producing. It is moderate but may bring a high risk for irritation. I believe it won't be that harmful for just short term use for sensitive skins as long as you don't feel actual pain.


I tried it at a normal cleaning way. Applying the white paste on hands, it contains no artificial flavor but slightly acceptable medicine smell. When stroked for a while, no lather appeared. Gently massaged it on cheek, chin and forehrad, avoiding the eye area, for at least 30 seconds, and then wipe off the warm water. I don't feel dry or irration at all after using it, frankly, the Shea butter really did a great job to keep skin nourishing and soft. Due to I have combination skin without any broken parts, I feel good about it. Many non-foaming facial cleaners may bring the non-clear feeling for being too mild. I think addtional face cleaning brush can be also applied. Addtionaly, this cleaner does not have any make-up remover function.
Dermalogica can be a bit pricey, Trip Active Cleanse 150ml for $38, website, included in Chromawhite TRx series, which aims to brighten skin tone with great moisturization. Suggested using C-12 Concentrate and Extreme C after the cleaner, also applying for a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen daily for better effect. If you have sensitive skin and enough budget, seeking a set of products to make a change of the dark skin tone, you can make a trial at this ChromaWhite TRx series. 

Tuesday, 11 September 2012

Beauty Products Review Blog Recommendation


To do some research for the L'oreal Youth Code Serum I am going to review, I have been reading this blog the whole day 


It is a wonderful blog by placing medical knowledge to analyse the ingredients and possible effects. And of course her own experience to use. The US based blogger Christine is a doctor that makes her review semi-professional (not a skin doctor though). She also has a large range of product review including skin care, make up, nails, hair, body, sunscreen, perfume, etc. I notice recently she posted some reviews in which the product samples are provided specially for reviews. I hope that doesn't effect the independence and objectivity of her work. I will keep an eye on that.  Still her blog is worth reading if you are a beauty addict as well. 

Thank you to stop by, as always!


Wednesday, 5 September 2012

[F.a.s.h.i.o.n] A Basic-Style Muse In Dior


Here I'm going to show the muse who inspired me to start Project 1- Be Basic. Angelababy, the 23 year-old model and actress from Hong Kong, China. I adore the way she dressed herself to attend Christian Dior fashion show in Paris Fashion Week, March, 2012. She looks independent at heart, with endless female power and a super pretty smile, mixed with sweetness and toughness. I personally like this look more than other little soft and gorgeous dresses. What do you think? 

Angelababy In Dior, Paris Fashion Week 2012

Fur Coat from Dior 2011 F/W
Leather Pencil Skirt from Dior 2010 Spring
Quilted Bag from Dior 


Things you may need to follow this look

1. Grey Fur Coat Marc by Marc Jacobs
2. White Short Sleeves Tee Yummie Tummie
3. Black Pencil Skirt OASIS
4. Black Chanel 2.55  Chanel
5. Black Sunglasses  Dior
6. Black High Heels JIMMY CHOO
7. Golden Letter Necklace Zoe & Morgan
8. Black&Golden Bracelet Alexander McQueen
9. Golden Metal Belt ASOS
10. Pink Lipstick L'OREAL
11. Red Nail Polish Lancome
12. Iphone  

Tuesday, 4 September 2012

[F.a.s.h.i.o.n] Project 2-2 - Simple Classic Casual


Hey! How's everything going with you guys? Still remember me, the girl programming an imaginary fashion closet? :) I'm back. Sorry I was away for a whole rainy and unlucky weekend but had a wonderful rest on Monday.

So, back to our topic, where were we? Project 2-2!  All-Match classic single items for casual looks, easy to wear when I go out for a walk in the forest! Of course, still with limited budget, I will choose these Four!



1. Braided Slender Leather Belt, Brown Color
2. Distressed Blue Jean Shorts
3. Short Brown Cowboy Boots (Heels no higher than 5cm)
4. White (or Creamy) Canvas Shopping Bag (With or Without Letters) 

As you can see I chose the most common colors, brown, blue and white (or creamy), which can match all the others already in the closet. Come to have a look how they work with each other!


I didn' list all possible looks because I believe it will probably be more than 50 different combinations with tops and bottons, different shoes, bags, and jewelries! I think you can do this game in your mind as well, get much fun as I have, see how many looks you will get just using these single items! With the ones I list in Project 2-1, it can also make a nice mix&mtach with both elegant and causal taste. How about mixing little black dress with the brown cowboy boots? I would like to try this great idea in real life! But, one more item has to be added. A blue silk scarf! This is really important, for that I'm crazy about marine and sailing stuff, so I will desperately want a blue tongue mixed, sailing theme real 100% silk scarf, better it is from Hermes, and better it is to be VINTAGE. I know I ask too much! This one I want probably doesn't exist. That's why I only have a closet in my imagination! However, even dreaming makes me feel good.


The blue scarf is superbe for almost every look we have made before, it can be tied on the Chanel bag and makes a beautiful tie-bow. Many people did that. Or it can casually go around the neckline of the little black dress, for a decoration of the whole look! Moreover, it can be wrapped on the beautiful long hair under the sunshine with huge sunglasses as Grace Kelly did. As long as you choose the right color to match the whole look. In this color system I make, I will personally recommend some more vivid colors like red, orange and green in addtion to blue, to give a contrast of other white&black. 

Therefore, I've got my complete 20 classic items list and I'm happy about it. Here is a review!

The same as every post, I hope you've enjoyed this reading with fun of imagination. I will stop this project for a while because I am heading to some more beauty review in the following days! After that I will post Project 3 about Winter Basic. Thanks every watcher!


Thursday, 30 August 2012

[F.a.s.h.i.o.n] Project 2-1 - Simple Classic Chic


Wednesday morning, on my breakfast table, I held my little pink notebook, thinking a lot about my last week post  Project 1 - Be Basic. I wonder that, was it too rough? did I make myself clear enough? Maybe I forget to mention all those 10 single items I picked from millions of fashion style just indicates a general idea of mine, how to optimum the cost/performance ratio of one's look, how to pick the most practical items with less money, to make sure one will always have something to discover from her closet, instead of throwing a lot of money on bunch of stuff she doesn't even wear once per year, and still complain about she has nothing to wear!

Meanwhile, you might find the 10 items I'v listed were too boring to wear for having no HIGHLIGHT or charactors at all. When you go out in streets, there are probably 50 persons dressing exactly like you. Your friends can't even tell which one is you! Sadly,that is the purpose of thie project. Like a plant you are going to cultivate, those 10 items are just flower beds without seeding yet. Your beautiful flowers? Not even mention! But don't worry, from Project 2 (still 10 items), I will try to make it more personlized and more specific (but still be able to apply in a general way). I'm thinking Project 2 can be divided into two parts. Here, Project 2-1 will introduce 5 more items to make you look modern and chic, for business and evening party time use, while Project 2-2 will show another 5 hot items added for a more casual and street look, but still classic. Then you know how to keep your wallet tight!

So, this is what I asked myself, "When you've owned Top 10 basic that you can go for all occasions, looking fabulous and classic, what will be the first choice if you can afford one more? "And I got my answer!

It should be her, the classical Little Black Dress! I can create a new look with the 3 items I have already had from Project 1 like in the picture, black high heels, letters style metal necklace and perfect Chanel bag, no need to spend more. However, there are also 10 principles (from me) to pick the first little black dress for each empty closet:

1) Only black
2) Basic design, no weird cutting or stitching
3) Not too casual like streets styles 
4) Not too showy like evening gowns
5) Not too sexy like night wearing
6) Not too long, not too short
7) No decorations, no beads, no silver pins
8) No black lace, no leather
9) Better be pencil shape
10) Better choose the materials will never have crease

In my opinion, to choose a perfect little black dress (like the one in the picture), it will help you, indeed, save money! Because, with proper jewelry or accessories, you can wear it for both working and casual moments, or even visiting and evening parties in some special occasions. How can you do that? Let's add a few more single items to see!


This time, I add 4 fresh ones , vintage style black hat (can be made of wool or man-made materials), short multi layers (or only one layer, but i prefer multi-layers) creamy pearl necklace (or white color, it doesn't matter) , black patent leather envelop clucth (must be shining) and transparent high heels. That's it, another new look appears with both vintage and modern chic tatse. If the previous look with Chanel bag and black high heels is better to work in office, this one will be so dazzling for attending even a special dinner party! Review how Audrey Hepburn handled her little black dress and black high heels.Stunning, isn't it!


Meanwhile, with the 4 new accessories I've already had just now, there are also plenty of possibilities to match them with my other Top 10 items, then you get more looks! For example, check these styles below. They make perfectly match with each other. Of course I can freely change the transparent high heels back to black high heels, and change the clutch back to Chanel style bad for any moments. There is no way the changes will ruin my entire look. I personally love transparent high heels because it always makes my legs look longer, fantastic effect for petite girls! I'm only 5''1' tall, when I wear my hot shorts and 3' high transparent sandals in street at summertime, people can think like i'm 5"8' and always ask me where to buy those transparent sandals. That is why I rank it to Top 20. But remember to choose the simplest style, no stitching with other colors or materials. And, the most important thing, the higher, the better. 

Also I save the pearl necklace for foture wearing although it is not the most widely used item and not suitable for many occasions, but they are still my favourite accessories and i think every girl should have one.



Well, I'm almost done the Project 2-1. As an end for today, I make this above image to remind the audience what I've got for my empty closet right now! Yeah, these 12 never-out-of-time items you also must have if you wanna save money and achieve an elegant and classic look (or cool or chic, whatever) in more than two weeks. I know there are another 3 items from Project 1 left, my plan is that they will show on Project 2-2. So what's new I will be adding for Project 2-2? Soon you will know! Everyone, thanks for passing by! Remember to come back to check! Or follow me on twitter, thanks again!

Tuesday, 28 August 2012

[R.e.v.i.e.w] Can Cheap Price Makes Good?


I've been studying Marketing and Advertisment before, which makes me a bit hard to trust the blind faith held by some people, "the most expensive, the better". That is why I always try to discover those cheap but effective items no matter in supermarkets or stores or can only order online. Don't get me wrong though, it doesn't mean all the expensive skin care products are worthless. Of course some of them are indeed something! You just need to spend some time and acquire the unique "golden eyes" to distinguish the right ones among thousands of products with even more commercials on magazines or TV. For me, what I am currently applying on my face everyday, are them, on the picture, from left to right  (price may vary from different currency and discount policy, etc. I list a local regular price for future reference)

 L: ACO Face Cleaning Lotion (original from Sweden),  Price: 200ml - 49Kr (6 Euros)
C: Nivea Soothing Toner (original from Germany), Price: 200ml - 45Kr (5.5 Euros)
R: Avene Thermal Spring Water (original from France), Price:150ml - 99Kr (12 Euros)


ACO is a Swedish original brand, established in 1939, and currently popular in Scandinavia. It is a Nordic product line. They are well known for their gentle and mild feature, causing no allergy to skin. They also have a wide range of products for all aspects as you can image, very fair price and only sold in pharmacy that just so perfect for sensitive skin type. 

I have been using this ACO Face Cleaning Lotion for more than two months, as you can see on the photo, only half of the lotion left inside. The thing is, I did not like it at all at the beginning. I was recommended this cleaning lotion "can remove make-ups on face and eyes and lips, no need to rinse it off", and it is "for dry and normal skin" (I'm a mixed skin type, sometimes can be sensitive). This is really tempting that I could clean my face without water when I am about to fall asleep with a completely dizzy spirit? For a lazy and sleepy girl, what a saver! However, in the first week, it desperately turned me down. The texture of this lotion was too thick and oily, it only left a sticky feeling, as i never made my face clean. Unfortunely at that moment I was also allergic to the Scandinavian wind, when both of my cheeks remained red marks, I had to use a light Karin Herzog Cleaning Lotion instead, to repiar my skin.  Until my cheeks finally got back to normal two weeks later, I tried it again,and I suddenly found out I never used my ACO lotion a right way. Yes, otherwise it should have worked on me! Two very important things about how to correctly use this lotion, massage, and still rinse it off even they tell you no need!

Then I kept trying it for two months according to my way:  squeezing the lotion on a clean cotton pad, a bit more than usual if I have foundation or powder left on. Evenly wipe them on the skin (including neck), wait for a few seconds, and then start to massage everywhere slowly and carefully for a while.Give it a little bit time for the make-ups and dirt fully melting in the lotion, until I feel all the pores are clean and comfortable, and there are no dirt or make-ups left on the pad. Warm water can help to get rid of the lotion oilness and all the dirt but no need to "wash" it, only wet face for a couple of times and  dry it with a clean towel. Well, that is how I make it works on me, and I feel my skin is perfectly clean, not too dry and I like it a lot now!

There is one thing I concern about after checking the safety of its ingredients online, Ceteareth-6. It is always used in make-ups and creams as an emulsifier, however, i feel it is not one hundred percent safe to apply it everyday for a long time though. And this one actually contains stearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol, can be a little irritant for sensitive skin. I will hold it to investigate.


Nivea is originally from Germany however you can find it everywhere in half of the global nowadays. I used this toner when I was 18 years old in college, and I use it again these days because it's really cheap and very easy to get in all supermarkets,when i am too busy to discover something new to have a dig at, i always chose ones i am familiar with. Generally, I don't see any obvious flaws for this product except the artificial smell is way too strong (some people really hate it). I used to apply them on three pieces of cotton pads, put them separately on both cheeks and forehead for 10 minutes, a simple everyday facial to keep skin wet as a way to prevent the winkles appear, easy and cheap, mild effect, either too good or bad. Checking the ingredients, most of them look fine. But still i don't understand why so many kinds of fragrance have to be added that makes the smell is so awful? And, remember, the contained hydroxycitronellal is something easy to be allergic to some certain types of skin. in that case, I'm almost sure I will only use this one if I have no other choice or emergency situation.


Avene from Paris has always been my choice for skin allergy problem. To be honest I can't live without this product when I am travelling abroad or experiencing a season change. Somehow it is never failed to relieve my red marks. When I have skin problem, i don't use any toner or or lotion or cream except this spray. There are only two ingredients listed on their package: Avene thermal spring water and nitrogen, and some figures for chemical element. It's natural and comfortable. I would highly recommend it as a must-have item in ladies' purses (they do have smaller package than 150ml) . You can use it even after make-ups just comfort the skin for not too dry. Price is alright, can get it in all pharmacy!

Ok, I hope you all enjoyed this review, that I personally think it is interesting to make the Price vs Effect as a comparison, then you will know exactly where your money should go! I will keep updating this project. Feel free to comment, share your expereince and send suggestions, i will reply. Thanks!   

Sunday, 26 August 2012

Creamy Cable-Knit Sweater


Sunshine, wind, wetness and apples in the yard, I already feel the smell of fall, and I love it.My new creamy cable-knit sweater. The colour is as thick as ice cream, so yummy and cozy! ! I just love the way how they made it.

from asos.com

A simple portrait, me in the softness. Nice weekend, cheers!


Saturday, 25 August 2012

[F.a.s.h.i.o.n] Project 1 - Be Basic


I am currently on a very funny and personal fashion project. CLEAN OUT MY CLOSET! Yes, I had too many complex choices which I spent lots of money on but finally find out they do not fit me at all. Alright, then I decide to get rid of them all and own a completely fresh closet, in my IMAGINATION, of course! 

Seriously, this paper fashion idea came from when I was 5 years old with my mom's fashion magazines. I cut the clothes pattern down from the magazines, collected them in my colorful iron pencil box, for 20 years! Now I re-do it again, using internet! That's pretty interesting and I have been thinking to make it out for a long time. Ambitiously, this weekend I did the Project 1, Be Basic. This is quite a personal idea. I am not pretending I'm kind of fashion professional, which I'm not. And I hope that doesn't bother you to read my blog!

First of all, I image I have absolutely NOTHING in my closet. I only have a tight budget, and I want to look classic, elegant that can go for both office working or casual forest strolling with my lover. If I give myself a limitation that only 10 stuff I can buy. Here we go. These are my choice!


1. Plain White Cotton Short Sleeves Tee
2. Men's Long Sleeves White Shirt
3. Creamy Cable-Knit Sweater
4. Black Pencil Skirt
5. Black Leggings
6. Blue Jeans (with or without holes)
7. Black Stilettos
8. White Minnetonka Moccasin
9. Golden Tone Metal Necklace With Letters (can be your name, your dog's name or lover's name)
10. Chanel (or Chanel Style) Black Bag With Golden Chain


Next you've got to ring the bell. I styled the belowing 12 looks. I list each look in the same row. That means you mix "one top + one botton+ necklace + one bag + one pair of shoes" in the same row, then you get the look! I think you will have no problem to catch me. At the last three rows, you can mix shirt or tee with sweater, and turn the collar out to look causal! With the 10 single items, surprisingly you will find out some of them will be perfect for office, some are matching just casually walking in street. Some can wear when you go to travel sitting on a bus, some can go for a Rock&Roll night show without any problem. The thing is, in all kinds of situation, you will look just fabulous with a low-key and classic taste! And, with brilliant make-up and red or light golden juicy lips on, isn't that just so simple to be trendy? 

If you're going for a business travel or just a casual trip, they are definitely the right things you should put in the small luggage. They will never go wrong no matter how you mix them together. I think that is how I would clear my closet and also my mind. And I would say if you have 300 euros, you can get all these similar singles in different stores or websites, well, except the Chanel bag. But under a limited budget, you really don't need to purchase an authentic Chanel, can be a similar style which costs only 30 Euros on some websites. Easy and chic, what do you think? If you like the items I list in my project, you can check it HERE on Lyst for their information, where i get most of the photos from. I hope you enjoyed this project so far, at least it can be a advice! I will soon list more project. The next will be "What If Add 10 More Items For the Baisc?" Will be very very interesting!

Lovely Weekend! Ciao

Thursday, 23 August 2012

My September Wish List


I collect some of my favourite items here, including skin care, clothing, shoes and bag, that I discovered during the whole August! Going to prepar for the coming September, so exciting, isn't it? But when I list them all, I surprisingly find out that they are, more or less, all BLACK or WHITE! Oops! I guess I've got a complete CHANEL taste for this season while Vogue Capturers think about pink or orange for a more vivid autumn. Not a big problem, let me be a little more mysterious then.

First row, from left to right (Price varies from different countries and currency)

1. Latest new version of Chanel perfume, inspaired by Coco (1984) and Coco Mademoiselle (2001), the fresh Coco Noir, which can turn you into a fabulous night in Venice. Really? Gotta have a try!  Price: 97 Euros (50ml) , 132 Euros (100ml)

2. Bioeffect GEF Serum, the widely praised high technology anti-age product. Bring you back the fresh skin for 10 years younger. Seriously, really that magic? All what I know about it is very mysterious, effective and expensive. Price: £125 (15ml). Oops! I desperately want to try, maybe someone can send it as a gift, or maybe, someday when i save enough! You can check it HERE for the details of this product! 

3. L'Oreal Youth Code Serum. Yeah, I haven't got a chance to try this one yet since my friend recommends to me. According to her, it is "really worthy trying, cheap and will definitely beyond your expectation". Alright, I luckily received a 15% disount coupon of it, gonna pick it up when I am going to town. Price: 169SEK, probably 20 Euros, or lower (30ml). I like the price!

4. Talika Lipocils. It is known as a wonderful product for extending and strengthen the eyelash. If it's really that magical, I will definitely die for it. Affordable price, £15 (4.2ml ), £24 (10ml ). HERE to check details.

5. I have been always eager to try collagen since I move to Sweden. I used to purchase it from the US, and then some skin experts suggest I can try the Scandinavian collagen because they have really good fish, and they are easier to get here than the US. Well, that's true. I aim to try Nutrinovelle  that they claim their product is 100% natural and healthy. Who knows?  Maybe there are something can make you look younger in just one night? Just never give up trying. Their website is HERE (in Swedish only), and can be purchased HERE (in Swedish only). Price: 489SEK (28 bags, one bag each day)

Second row, from left to right, top to botton

6. 7. ASOS is the only website i discovered from the UK to sell petite clothing ( I'm pretty small ) combined with a wide range and affordable price and fashionable trends. I wouldn't say they've got the best quality but I like their clothes in many ways. I've got this quilted B&W Jacket to go for autumn in my imagination, very Chanel, isn't it. Price is fair! £20 only, was £55! Along with the high waist black Jet Pocket Trousers for another £20. Extra 10% discount ends on 15th Sep, I think I may go for them soon!

8. Egypian Magic All Purpose Skin Cream is something I newly noticed good for everyone in family. They use it on face, skin, hair, cuts, burns, bruises, rashes, for adults and children. That does sounds magic! I would like to have one box at home for children, you know how easy they get hurt themselves by climbing on everywhere or just playing with the wrong "toys". Plus, I expect this one can help solve skin problems as well, a little bit pricing for a cream, £25. Details HERE 

9. Classic black high heels from Pretty-Small-Shoes. My feet are really small, between Euro size 33-34, so it has always been a problem for me to buy shoes from the actual stores. But I never bought anything from Pretty-Small-Shoes before just because their price is way too high for the unknown brands shoes, although they look fabulous on pictures. Am I gonna have a try, or not?

10. ASOS Quilted Shopper Bag. I need a cheap but big, and trendy shopper or tote bag that I can carry all clothes and food the kids need when I'm out with them. It is just so impossible to bring an authentic £2000 valued Chanel bag when you're going out with them and you know they are gonna mess everything up, including your favourite handbag! No! No! No! This one looks perfect, the Chanel style. Size seems big enough. Price? Not the best as I expected but ok. Or I can wait until they are on sale!

Well, I'm simply introducing what I'm interested in and details about where to buy and everything else. It's been a pleasure if they can catch your eyes:)

Tuesday, 21 August 2012

[R.e.v.i.e.w] L'Oreal Revitalift 10 Total Repair Moisturizer


I wasn't aiming for L'Oreal products at all until one friend recommends L'Oreal Youth Code Booster Serum to me. Yeah, that little black bottle, tempting price and effective, is said showing a higher cost/performance ratio even than the very famous and valued Estee Lauder ANR. Well, that will be another story, I will tell it some other day. Anyway, today I am going to review this L'Oreal Paris Dermo-Expertise Revitalift 10 Total Repair SPF 20 Multi-Regenerating Moisturizer. OMG, do they really have to list all these in just a name? I decide let's just call it LR Moisturizer for short in this review.


I've been trying this LR Moisturizer for exactly a whole month. I found it in a local supermarket which costs only 99 SEK, roughly around 12 Euros, unbelievably affordable. I think that is one important reason why I tried it.  Come to the design of the bottle, I would say not the easiest one to use but not bad either. There is no way to open this bottle to see the moisturizer inside before pressing it out from the pump. It may cause a bit of waste when it's nearly done. I believe the pump can make everything clearner though. And I personally do not suggest to use fingers directly touch any cream from their bottles or boxes. You can see from the pictures below.


Well, let's read about what they say on the commercial of the LR moisturizer's function. Here it is:

To help target 10 signs of ageing in one

1. Deep Wrinkles
2. Fine Lines
3. Loss of Firmness
4. Loss of Tone
5. Lack of Plumpness
6. Age Spots
7. Dull Complexion
8. Crepey Décolletage
9. Uneven Skin Texture
10. Dryness

According to what I have experienced, deep wrinkles and fine lines? Sorry, not really as I can see for using it only one month. I am not saying it is effectless, just not obvious on my face. Plus, I'm 29 years old but have not had deep winkles yet so far as you can see in my photos. However, help to improve firmness, tone and uneven skin texture,  reduce age spots and get rid of dull look and dryness? Yes, I think it did achieve them all, more or less. For the other two, plumpness and crepey décolletage, i don't understand what they mean. Maybe you can tell me?!

I do feel kind of good when I apply this LR moisturizer every morning before using  my L'Oreal True Match foundation. They really match each other and can create a perfect porcelain look if I have done pretty well of the basic moist job for my skin, using wonderful toner or essence twice each day,to let my skin "perfect clean" and "drinking enough". The moisturizer makes my face smooth and glossy. Texture of the moisturizer is truely lightweight and a little bit oily (i thinki it is necessary though) It can last like five hours long until I need to apply some spring water again to prevent my face being too dry or too mashed. I blame that on the weather here in Sweden. It has been windy which can make skin keeps dryness. Anyway, if you are very very dry skin, this one may probably ok for half a day, but if you are very oily skin, i personally do not recommend.  

    
There is one thing I have to mention, the smell. I really don't like the semll because it smells like has been added too much chemical stuff in, very artificial. So I have a bit of doubt of the ingredients inside. Just so far, it looks perfectly fine for using LR moisturizer for a short time, however, when checking the ingredients on professional website to test the safety, I am actually a bit shocked by all the FIGURE here.  You can see from this website of seperated ingredient, how safe exactly they are? From zero to five, the lower the better. Also the safety icon, the green ones means no hazard while the red ones means can be harmful. Exactly, as the website itself describes, the safety icon is a conprehensive index fouus on long term usage. From the safety icon table, for the LR moisturizer, excluded the unknown ingredients and undefined irration, half of the known ones have question marks on, in terms of a long time usage. So, isn't it clear? Yes, it does have effect when you use it for short time, but when you have very sensitive or problem skin, bette be careful to use it. For me, I may probably will just discover something else safer.


Friday, 17 August 2012

[M.u.s.i.c] Lenka Lenka



After all, I have got to bring this album on my blog, although I believe most of you may have been very familiar with . Lenka from Lenka Kripac, 2008. I've been heard the melody of The Show, and Trouble Is A Friend on many commercials and through radio for so long time but never really took a piece on it. Today I did. I encountered Trouble Is A Friend on a casual radio channel. I feel it is exactly what I want right now. Cheerful and relaxing, even it is supposed to describe a possibly gloomy day. Just love this attitude! Here comes the lyrics of it.

Trouble Is A Friend

Trouble will find you no matter where you go oh oh
No matter if you're fast no matter if you're slow oh oh
­The eye of the storm wanna cry in the morn, oh oh
You're fine for a while but you start to lose control
He's there in the dark, he's there in my heart
He waits in the wings, he's gotta play a part
Trouble is a friend, yeah trouble is a friend of mine
Ahh..
Trouble is a friend, but trouble is a foe, oh oh
And no matter what I feed him he always seems to grow, oh oh
He sees what I see and he knows what I know, oh oh
So don't forget as you ease on down my road
He's there in the dark, he's there in my heart
He waits in the wings, he's gotta play a part
Trouble is a friend, yeah trouble is a friend of mine
Don't be alarmed if he takes you by the arm
I roll down the window, I'm a sucker for his charm
Trouble is a friend, yeah trouble is a friend of mine
Ahh..
How I hate the way he makes me feel
And how I try to make him leave
I try, oh oh I try

Others can be good too! You can listen to the whole album HERE .Please listen to The Show as well.  Plus, the album cover is cute. Lenka looks super cute with this little blue silk dress, and her tangled hair.

Monday, 13 August 2012

[F.a.s.h.i.o.n] Fall Is On Its Way

Since I came back from Öland, I've noticed the weather gets a little bit cool at night. Some petals dropped in the yard. My skin and lips become drier than before. Yup, I realise fall is on its way to greet! Summer is about to over, but I'm so exceited to welcome the coming fall because I have already prepared some fresh and affordable candies. Here they are!


I collected three pairs of shoes for different purposes. You will see here is one pair I completely adore, the very famous ballerinas brands, Pretty Ballerinas, from Spain. Pretty Ballerinas has a wide range of collection on their website. I choose this classic Chanel style W&B tongue, white lamb quilted leather and black patent leather toes, beautiful and elegant, absolutely gorgeous! It is amazingly soft and comfortable to wear as I have tried them on and I heard it is handmade in Spain. Stunning! In my imagination, they would fit some special moments like having a casual walk with my lover in the street in Paris, with a tiny shining vintage patent leather purse, and a floral printed silk scarf.

Pretty Ballerinas


Pretty Ballerinas can be a little bit pricing but not when you discover the right online stores. You can always check it here, Javari. Javari is also avaliable in French, German and Japanese. In Sweden I like to go for Spartoo. And Amazon and Ebay of course. All these websites will have regular price down for some special ballerinas styles. Hope you will enjoy the pleasure to hunt what you like. 

My view to fall always tends to be reserved. I sort of like some vivid and cool colors though some people don't. For example, elephant grey, leather brown, light chocalate, blackish green, dark yellow or peacock blue. A pair of scarlet red ballerians could always draw my attetion. I prefer to leave black to winter. About the materials of shoes, better to be leather. Style, heels can't be too high (easy to step into the woods or long walk with children), not too low either (I'm an size extra petite), unless I am wearing ballerinas. I wouldn't complain about my choices. So i got them! Two different styles from www.spartoo.se,


Betty London

I picked a pair of classic Richelieu style leather ankle boots which are used to reserve for men. As far as I kown, it has been popular for quite a time amoug the girls who fancy a vintage look, yes, a Must Have item for retro addict, no matter guys or girls. I guess it will never go out of fashion because itself has been old enough to be fashionable, isn't it? I purchased this pair for around 285kr, very fair price. It goes down from 816kr. Made in Italy, leather was good, shining and exquisite without heavily bad smell. But it seems to be one size bigger than it describes online. Be careful when you order it. Or you can email me to get the exact measurement if you are interested. But generally, I am happy with them.

Below is another pair i really would like to try when i saw their pictures online. It is a kind of light grey color of corrected grain leather, with stable synthetic outsole, probably 7-8cm high heels. I like their mood to be so low-key but elegant. May not best match the yellow shoestrings (can be replaced to whatever strings, while I haven't made my mind yet), but they can also be a perfect option to go with a pair of blue jeans and a silk shirt. The tassel bags will help to reach a relaxing and lazy autumn style. The trick is, the toe has been designed to a great slim shape so when you put them on, your feet will hit a delicate look as well. I bought the same size as the Richelieu style leather boots, but these ones appear to be more fitable than the actual size, while those are, as I mentioned, a little bbigger.     

Betty London

The price was quite impressive and I think it is definitely worthy buying if you also fancy this design. It goes down from 688kr to 344kr. 50% discount is ongoing. You can check it HERE . Don't miss them out!

So, what have you been thinking about your options for fall?


Sunday, 12 August 2012

Day & Night at the Beach


I was away for some days because I went to Öland for vacation with my family. It is an island located in Southeast Sweden. I bring back some pictures from the seaside. It was a quite relaxed time to just sit there, watching the changes of the sky, clouds and the ocean, listening to the waves. I love to see the seagulls flying away, leaving their footprints on the beach. Pretty cute ones, right?
   




The color of the sea water was different by the color of sunshine. Sometimes was jasper, at another time it became sapphire. It is a pity I couldn't capture the silver sands when the sunshine spreaded on the beach. It was an amazing view. The edge of the waves was as shinning as  a white diamond band. Peaceful and quiet, a bit cold and windy though.





Staying at the beach for a long time and waiting for the sunset was never easy on Öland. My husband used to do that. He's got some really nice moments. At this season, the sun dropped really really fast with heavy wind, while the sea water was still cold. I think it's a sign of fall coming. I tried to capture some moments, but I would say I could do better next year. It is kind of photography practice of this year, however I hope I can have more creative work as time goes by.