Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Review, Worth the Hype?

Saturday, September 22, 2018

Ever since I became an adolescent, I have been battling various skin problems which I thought would go away when I reached adulthood. I was wrong. That's the reason I got into skincare anyway, constantly looking for Holy Grail products that could hopefully transform my skin back to its pre-puberty glow. Enter the Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop

Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Review

Before proceeding to my review, you may be interested in knowing about the skincare benefits of topically applying Vitamin C. 

How Does Vitamin C Benefit My Skin?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin widely known to boost the immune system. It is also a potent anti-oxidant and an agent in the biosynthesis of collagen. We know Vitamin C as our go-to when it comes to colds and the flu but what does it do your skin? 

  • It reduces photodamage and wrinkling- Oxidative damage to proteins is a feature of both photodamage (photoaging) and intrinsic aging. In addition to its antioxidant functions, vitamin C regulates the synthesis of the structural protein collagen. Studies show that Vitamin C topical application for 12 weeks decrease wrinkling, reduce protein fiber damage and increase collagen production. 
  • It fights discoloration and pigmentation - Topical Vitamin C application is also shown to have a significant skin lightening effect due to the reduction in melanin production and melanin oxidation. (Source)
  • It reduces skin roughness - One study showed that topical application of Vitamin C correlated its use with decreased skin roughness. It is said that the presence Vitamin C is required for the formation of competent barrier lipids in the skin, thus making the skin smooth. 
Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Review
The Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop is so pretty!

About the Product

The Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop is a serum to rejuvenate the skin. It contains concentrated pure Vitamin C and key ingredients directly from nature. Its innovative multi-solution and non-irritating formula are to revitalize, maintain, and transform the skin. It is suitable for all skin types. 

It contains a hybrid of 5% L-Ascorbic Acid and Centella Asiatica Extract which helps stimulate collagen production and improves skin tone and texture without harsh irritation. 

Since its Vitamin C concentration is one of the lowest in the market, it is a great product to use for introducing Vitamin C to your skin. 

Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Review
Dear, Klair's brand philosophy: Simple, but enough.

Ingredients

Water, Propylen Glycol, Ascorbic Acid(5%), Hydroxyethylcellulose, Centella Asiatica Extract, Citrus Junos Fruit Extract, Illicium Verum(Anise) Fruit Extract, Citrus Paradisi(Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Polysorbate 60, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract, Chaenomeles Sinensis Fruit Extract, Orange Oil Brazil, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Disodium EDTA, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Camellia Sinensis Callus Culture Extract, Larix Europaea Wood Extract, Chrysanthellum Indicum Extract, Rheum Palmatum Root Extract, Asarum Sieboldi Root Extract, Quercus Mongolia Leaf Extract, Persicaria Hydropiper Extract, Corydalis Turtschaninovii Root Extract, Coptis Chinensis Root Extract, Magnolia Obovata Bark Extract, Lysine HCL, Proline, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Acetyl Methionine, Theanine, Lecithin, Acetyl Glutamine,SH-Olgopeptide-1, SH-Olgopeptide-2, SH-Polypeptide-1, SH-Polypeptide-9, SH-Polypeptide-11, Bacillus/Soybean/Folic Acid Ferment Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caprylyl Glycol, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol 

Aside from Ascorbic Acid, the most notable ingredient in this long list is Centella Asiatica Extract which is also a key ingredient in Korean Beauty today. It is known for its anti-bacterial, soothing and smoothing properties.

For more information about the various ingredients and how it affects your skin, click here.

Stabilized Vitamin C

Another thing to note about the Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop is that it uses a stabilized version of Vitamin C. Vitamin C in its purest form is unstable and can easily oxidize upon exposure to oxygen, heat, and light. This causes a problem for serums since oxidized Vitamin C is not effective anymore and can even irritate your skin. That is why Vitamin C serums are always packaged in dark air-tight containers and have such a short shelf-life. No matter how well you store it, it will turn in a yellow-ish shade - an indication that oxidation is starting. 

Dear, Klairs promises that this is not an issue for their Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop serum. According to their website, a slight change in color will not influence the effectiveness of this serum. 

How to Use

  • For Normal Skin - After cleansing, apply 1-2 drops and gently massage into the face using the palms.
  • For Sensitive Skin - After cleansing, prep the skin with toner. Mix a few drops into preferred serum or moisturizer and apply accordingly. 

Other Notes

  • Vitamin C products are best used during the evening rather than in the mornings. Follow up with sunscreen if used during the day. 
  • This is not recommended to be used after using exfoliators (AHA, BHA products, etc.). 
  • It is recommended to be stored in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • For the best effect of vitamin C, use serum within 2-3 months after opening. 

Price/Where to Buy

$23.00 at Wishtrend. They ship worldwide and offer free shipping for orders $69 and above (right now, it's $30 dollars and above, so hurry!). They also offer free shipping for single items, just use code: SINGLEFREESHIPPING.

PHP 1200 at Go Bloom & Glow (currently on sale for PHP 1080!).

My Experience

Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Review
It also comes with a dropper.

Packaging

It may seem shocking to those who are already familiar with Vitamin C serums as it comes in a clear bottle. Since the Vitamin C used in this product is stabilized, they can store it in a pretty bottle instead of the typical dark tinted bottles used by other serums. It has a very simple design with a holographic feature which is really cute and elegant to look at. The serum is dispensed through a medicinal dropper which I think is great for hygiene and convenience purposes. The dropper also allows you to control the amount of product you are using. 

Scent

It doesn't have a prominent scent. I thought it would smell like orange juice or something sweet. I did notice that it leaves my hands (and face!) with a metallic smell. Not to worry though, it is tolerable and goes away rather quickly. 

Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Review
Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop has a rather runny texture.

Texture 

It is runny, similar to water but has the consistency of dry oil as well (See the crappy photo above >.< ). Since it is quite oily, I recommend that if you use it during the morning, pair it up with a good oil control face powder like the Shiseido Medicated Baby Powder (review here) and wear sunblock too. 

Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Review
It leaves a dewy finish and absorbs fast in the skin.

Application

The serum was smoothly applied to my skin. I noticed a warm feeling upon application. You may be initially alarmed that your skin is reacting negatively or what not but it is not something to worry about. It is quite relaxing once you get used to it. A minor tingling sensation may be felt also. This is due to the difference in pH levels in the skin and the Vitamin C. It also absorbs perfectly into the skin quickly, leaving a healthy dewy look. 

Results

I have been using the Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop for over a month and a half now and can vouch for its effectiveness. I noticed a significant change in my skin. My post-inflammatory hyperpigmentations are visibly reduced. My dark spots are noticeably brightened. Complexion is more glowing and my skin tone is evened out. I feel that using this serum has made my skin visibly healthier. I do not think it had anything for minimizing my pores though. I saw the effects as early as a week. See the photo below for proof. 

Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Review
Look at how large of a difference that is!

My Thoughts

PROS : 

  • Gentle and can be used for sensitive skin. 
  • Made my skin brighter and healthier looking.
  • Evened out my skin tone.
  • My post-inflammatory hyperpigmentations are visibly reduced.
  • Absorbs well into the skin quickly.
  • Did not cause any purging or breakouts.
  • Has a longer shelf-life than other Vitamin C serums.
  • Relatively cheap for a serum. 
  • Pretty packaging.

CONS :

  • Can be a bit oily. 
  • Has a metallic smell.
  • Is warm on the skin. (Not a con for me but it can be putting off for some people). 
  • Does nothing with my large pores.
I am so impressed with the Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop. It has significantly changed my skin for the better. The hype for this product is definitely worth it. I believe that a few more months of using this would remove my dark spots completely.

This is my first ever Dear, Klairs product and I am looking forward to trying more from the brand. I have read that it also works much better when paired with the Dear, Klair Freshly Juiced Vitamin E Mask, which I have just purchased. I will keep you posted.  

Repurchase? 

100% YES!


Have you tried this product? How did it work for you? What's your favorite Vitamin C serum? Let me know in the comments below.


Note: This article contains affiliate links that may help support this blog if you make a purchase. This product was provided by Wishtrend for a review but all thoughts are my own and are not influenced by the brand and/or its affiliates. 

Why You Need An Outdoor Inflatable Tumble Track At Home

Tuesday, September 18, 2018

Outdoor Inflatable Tumble Track
An inflatable tumble track can be used both indoor and outdoor. 

Tumble tracks are commonly seen in gyms used by professional gymnasts. Recently, more and more people are buying airtracks and adding them as part of their home staples. If you don't own one yet, you may ask why you should consider buying one. Continue reading below for reasons why you need an outdoor inflatable tumble track at home.

Reasons to Own an Outdoor Inflatable Tumble Track


  • It doesn't take up space. A significant advantage of an inflatable tumble track over the traditional foam-based mat is that you can fold and unfold them easily. Once they have deflated, you don't have to worry about storage anymore. This is especially important if your room has limited space. Since the airtrack is compact, it is also fuss-free to carry around wherever you go. 
  • It only takes a few minutes to set up. An inflatable tumble track can be set up easily in mere minutes. You will not be hassled whenever you want to use your airtrack. The set up is easy enough for kids to do on their own. 
Outdoor Inflatable Tumble Track
An air track can come in a color and size of your choice. 

  • It is shock-absorbent. Shock-absorption is one of the main properties of an airtrack. This feature allows the user to do a wide number of activities while not having to think about having injuries. Safety is guaranteed as the airtrack creates a cushion against the hard floor. Its surface is designed to withstand any impact caused by hard landings and unexpected falls. 
  • It can be used for various fitness activities. An outdoor inflatable tumble track is not only used for gymnastics. It can also be used to practice yoga, dancing, pilates or even doing a regular sit-up. An airtrack is thick and wide enough for users to be able to stretch their body and develop their balance and coordination. 

Outdoor Inflatable Tumble Track
A tumble track can easily be deflated and stored in your home.

  • It is kid-friendly. The inflatable tumble track is a safe place for kids to play and explore physical activity at an early age. They can jump, crawl, tumble and be as creative as they can in their movements without risking any injuries. Some daycare centers even install airtracks to prevent child play accidents. 
  • It will encourage you to get out of the couch. Since the airtrack is so flexible and easy to use, you will be inspired to have a more active lifestyle. If you don't have time to go to the gym due to your busy working hours, an inflatable tumble track at home may be the perfect fix. If you're looking to start an at-home gym, this equipment should be the very first one you buy. You simply have to pick it up and begin an exercise of your choice.

Due to the reasons above, an outdoor inflatable tumble track is truly an amazing gym equipment you can add at home. It is an investment that you won't regret. 

There is a lot of air tumble track for sale online but not all have great quality. Wholesale AirTrack  is one of the world's largest suppliers in producing air tracks with years of experience. They offer affordable airtracks that are durable and have a quality you can trust.


Note: This is a sponsored post. 

B&Soap My Secret! Glacial Water Mask Review

Saturday, September 15, 2018

B&Soap My Secret! Glacial Water Mask Review

This review is about the B&Soap's My Secret! Glacial Water Mask that I bought from Althea Korea sometime last year. I was only able to try it out recently. 

About the Product

B&Soap's My Secret! Glacial Water Mask is a mild and calming mask which contains six pure minerals extracted from Alaskan glacial water to soothe and condition your skin. Formulated for those who have dull, dry or sagging skin. Glacial Water will replenish moisture to every single layer of your skin for deep hydration. 

What is Glacial Water?

Glacier Water is water from ice blocks at very low temperatures that are free from human contamination. It boasts special properties which render it purer and cleaner than other water. These characteristics are applied to cosmetics to prepare extremely delicate and pure products with a high cleansing and moisturizing capacity (Source). 

Ingredients: 

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Glacier Water, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Betaine, Propylene Glycol, Allantoin, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Triethanolamine, Methylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance

Price:

41PHP or about 0.8USD from Althea Korea. 

Masking Duration: 

10-20 minutes

My Experience

Packaging: 

The packaging is great! It looks cute and kind of reminds me of a post card or an old fashioned envelope. All information in the packet is in Korean though, except for the ingredients. 

Scent:

Upon opening, I noticed a perfume-y scent. Take note that this mask has 'Fragrance' as one of its ingredients. The best description I could give you about how this smells is that it's like a typical beauty product. I hope that makes sense! Luckily scent was not overbearing and disappeared upon mask application. 

Material: 

The mask sheet material is thin and had a really great fit for my face. The mask was very adhering as well. 

Essence: 

Essence is thick and not drippy, consistency is like that of an aloe vera gel. The packet did not contain a lot of it, however, the sheet mask was completely saturated. The mask did not dry out through out the recommended masking time which is 10-20 minutes. I usually follow the maximum limit when I use a sheet mask. Essence was absorbed in under 10 minutes. 

Results:

This mask left my face with a dewy finish, feeling moisturized and not tacky at all. I felt that my face was truly hydrated even during the morning after. I didn't have any breakouts or reactions that I can associate with this product. I noticed a bit of a pore tightening effect too. 


B&Soap My Secret! Glacial Water Mask Review

Thoughts

It's the first time I'm encountering glacial water as a skin care ingredient and I am impressed with its hydrating properties. This is also the first product I have tried from B&Soap so I really did not know what to expect. Glad to say that I was pleasantly surprised with this mask. I will definitely repurchase! B&Soap's My Secret! Glacial Water Mask will be great to have in my stash whenever my skin feels extra dry. Might be time to try out more Glacial Water products too! 

Have you tried Glacial Water in skincare before? Let me know below!

Note: This post is not sponsored in any way. All thoughts are my own. Your product experience might be completely different from mine. 


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The Girl Code: 7 Basic Unspoken Rules Every Girl Should Follow

Sunday, September 9, 2018


The Girl Code is a set of unspoken rules that teaches women to treat each other with kindness, love and respect. However, in today's social media and elitist "squad" culture, girls can easily get self-absorbed and selfish. We treat each other as competition when we should really be allies. We often forget how important it is for us girls to stick together, even if the other girl in question is just a random stranger. Wouldn't it be nice to feel at ease, knowing a girl you just met in the bathroom will have your back when needed? Here are the 7 basic unspoken rules every girl should follow.

1.) Always tell a girl if something is going wrong in her outfit.

See a girl go out of the bathroom with her skirt tucked in her underwear? Tell her. Those leggings are totally see through? Let her know. Her boob is out? She has lipstick in her teeth? Smudgy mascara? Say something, but make sure you do so discreetly. You know you'd appreciate the honesty if these  unfortunate things happened to you.


2.) Let a girl know if her boyfriend is cheating.

Girls owe it to other girls to let each other know when their boyfriend is cheating or trying to cheat. If a guy chats you up but his relationship status says "In A Relationship", walk away. Don't try to flirt with him, tell his girlfriend instead. You'll be doing a sister a favor that might just help her dump his cheating ass.


3.) Don't hate. Give compliments and boost each others' confidence instead. 

We always seem to have something negative to say about that girl who's prettier or has nicer things than us. Or maybe about that girl in a happy relationship and a successful career. We even hate on  that girl we don't know who happened to walk by us, wearing a pretty dress. Why do girls rip each other apart? You are aware, more than most people, how crazy this world can get.

 

Every girl has her own set of insecurities and issues she has to deal with. On top of that, we have to be at the receiving end of harsh criticisms from our own kind. Putting down others will not make you above them. It doesn't work that way.

Like her dress? Ask her where she bought it. Think her make up is on point? Say so. A genuine compliment from a random stranger can boost her self confidence and maybe make her entire day. Don't we want to live in a world where women build each other up instead of ripping each other apart? I thought so. 

4.) Be sympathetic during "that" time of the month.

Haven't we all experienced the panic when our monthly visitor comes knocking and we are caught without feminine napkins or tampons in hand? Maybe you've also tried walking all over the place only to find out you have blood stains in your clothes. Be willing to help a girl out in times of need. Follow this basic girl code rule to avert a possible red day disaster.  


5.) Make sure a drunk girl gets home safe. 

If you see a girl who is too drunk for her own sake and is alone, instead of going judgmental on her, go up to her and make sure she's okay. She is very vulnerable and could easily be taken advantage of. Don't take that chance. Offer to take her home, call her emergency contacts or turn her over to a local police station where she could safely spend the night. This basic girl code rule could possibly end up saving a life.

6.) Help a girl who is being harassed.  

There are a lot of creepy people in the world. Some nights, you unluckily grab their attention and they focus all their efforts on you. You repeatedly say "no" but he won't take that for an answer. Won't it be better if another girl jumped in and backed you up? Definitely! You understand how awful these situations are so when you see a girl being harassed, offer a helping hand and save her. 


7.) If you see a girl crying, be her friend. 

Sometimes, it's better to be alone when we have stuff to cry about while sometimes, it's nice to have someone who would sincerely listen. If you happen to notice that the girl in next table is crying, come up to her and ask a simple "What's Wrong?" or "Are you okay?". Knowing that someone gives a crap would bring much needed positivity in her life. If you can, go out of your way and make time to listen to what she has to say. 

THE GIRL CODE DOESN'T MEAN WE HAVE TO BE BFF'S. 

These Basic Girl Code rules should be universally adapted by women. Following the girl code doesn't mean you have to be BFF's with every girl you meet. It simply requires you to look out for all ladies you encounter, doesn't matter whether she's a friend or a stranger. Besides, no one else could understand your situation better than your fellow women. 

In this world that is constantly getting crazier and crazier, it's nice to know that us girls can try to stick together.  

Streetyard - The Best Porkchops in Cebu

Sunday, September 2, 2018


Streetyard in Parkmall Cebu


Wondering where you can find the best tasting porkchops in Cebu? I might just have the answer to that: Streetyard. Streetyard is a budget friendly restaurant that serves sauced porkchops, among others. 

The restaurant started back in October 2014 as a small stall in JCentre Mall known to be as "SnakYard". They initially only aimed to sell their first products: Mac and Cheese and Nachos. The owners didn't have big plans for the business since it only served as a sideline on top of their regular jobs. They decided to add the Pesto Herbed Pork Chop to their line up to widen the menu. They had not expected that it would significantly change their course of business moving forward.

By February 2015, the small stall was transferred to the mall's food court area due to the increasing demand for the Pesto Herbed Pork Chop. A food cart simply could not handle the volume of customers they were getting. On September 2016, the mall had to demolish the food court area. To continue their service, the mall management offered them a temporary store. Due to the public's continued support, "SnakYard" owners decided to formally acquire the area, making the once small food cart a full pledge restaurant. 

Last May 2017, their second branch newly branded as "Streetyard" opened up in Parkmall, Mandaue.

Streetyard in Parkmall Cebu


Never having been able to visit JCentre Mall, ever, I have not heard of them before. A good friend of mine kept on telling me that I have got to try Streetyard's porkchops, saying nothing but great things about them. This had me crazy curious. So when I was able to stop over Parkmall, I did not let the opportunity pass me by. I had to try the so called best porkchops in Cebu and the time has finally come. 

The Streetyard Menu 

Streetyard Menu Cebu

The Pesto Herbed Porkchops might have put Streetyard on the list of must try restaurants in Cebu City, but the owners did not stop there. Streetyard currently has three variations of their famous chops on the menu: Pesto Herbed, Sour Cream and Hang-over. They also serve Cabonara, Grilled Sandwiches, Nacho's and Mac and Cheese. All of which are very affordable.

Streetyard Menu Cebu


The Food

I only got to try the Famous Pesto Herbed and Hang-over Pork Chops which I had on two different visits. We also ordered a serving of their Carbonara. 

Pesto Herbed Pork Chop

Streetyard Pesto Herbed Porkchop

The star of the Streetyard menu is a hefty sized porkchop with butter and pesto sauce served with a cup of rice and sliced cucumber sidings. 

I swear, after trying this for the first time, I found myself daydreaming about it a few days later. I get it now. My boyfriend who ordered a serving of Carbonara instead of a porkchop meal claiming he wasn't hungry enough, got to taste it only from a few slices I was willing to share with him. I could see jealousy in his eyes as I feasted on my porkchop and he regretfully settles with his Carbonara. The carbanora was good, but it was no pesto herbed pork chop. On our second visit to Streetyard, he finally ordered his own plate. 

Hang-Over Pork Chop

Streetyard Hang-over Porkchop

I ordered Hang-over Pork Chop on my second visit. The pesto herbed one was so good that I was curious about the other chop variations. The sauce is creamy, a little spicy and very cheesy. It reminded me of the sauce used in Chili-con-carne. The sauce was of very generous portions, which I definitely enjoyed. Just like most Filipino's, I tend to like having my rice smothered with sauce. It was too much for my boyfriend though, who is a complete opposite of me when it comes to my love for sauces. 

Carbonara

Streetyard Carbonara

Streetyard's Carbonara is as creamy as can be. It's not too dry but not too wet either and it had a generous amount of ham bits. Overall, it's a decent serving for such the cheap price. Pasta is also a good addition to the Streetyard menu for added variety. 

The Aesthetic

Streetyard in Parkmall Cebu

The Streetyard aesthetic, if I could describe it properly, is a combination of hominess with touches of modern edge. The menu board with its corresponding prices is readable and clearly presented at the counter. Although the restaurant itself is not as "instagram-able" (apparently a requirement now) as other newly opened hip restaurants in Cebu, it still offers a relaxing ambiance and contains a certain lovable charm.

Locations

You may visit Streetyard or Snakyard in the following locations:

Streetyard

2nd Floor, Parkmall (beside MexiMama), Mandaue City

SnakYard

Upper Ground Floor, JCentre Mall, A.S. Fortuna Street, Mandaue City

For more information, please visit their Facebook page.

If you're looking for the best porkchops in Cebu City or maybe just looking for a new affordable place to dine at, give Streetyard or Snakyard a visit. Streetyard is definitely on my list of the must try restaurants in Cebu. 


Note: This post is not sponsored in any way. All food items were purchased by the writer.


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