October - Month of breast cancer awareness What Is Breast Cancer? Breast cancer usually originates from the cells lining the milk ducts and glands. Ductal cancer (i.e. arising from the ducts) are more common than lobular cancers (i.e. arising from the lobules). At this early period of cancer growth, the malignant cells are confined within the milk ducts and glands and have not invaded into the surrounding tissue known as the stroma. When breast cancer is detected at this stage known as non-invasive or in-situ cancer, treatment is easier and patients live longer. However, when cancer cells have broken out of the milk ducts and lobules and invaded the surrounding stroma, the cancer is called an invasive cancer. An invasive cancer can gain entry into the lymphatic system and spread to the lymph glands (called nodes) in the armpit. Likewise, the cancer cells can enter the bloodstream and spread to other organs in the body. When these cells reach a new site, they may form a new tumour, often referred to as a secondary or a metastasis. The organs most commonly affected are the lungs, bones and liver. In this advanced stage breast cancer is usually incurable and patients may only have months to live. Symptoms Often there are no outward signs of breast cancer that you can see or feel. If there are outwards signs, the first symptom is typically a lump in the breast area which feels different from the surrounding breast tissue. Other common symptoms include an area of thickening, or a dimple in the breast. Less common signs include breast swelling and redness or an enlarged underarm lymph node. Diagnosis The only effective and proven method to detect breast cancer early is an X-ray of the breasts called Mammogram. Mammogram is able to detect microcalcifications (calcium dots), which is an early sign of non-invasive duct cancer, and also breast cancers that are too small to be detected by clinical examination (less than 1 cm diameter). Other methods such as Breast Self Examination (BSE), Clinical Examination, Ultrasound Scan (Breasts) have not been proven to be effective, although BSE does play a part in early detection if there are unusual lumps spotted. How Common Is Breast Cancer? Breast cancer is the commonest cancer in Singapore women and about 1000 women are diagnosed with the cancer annually. Women of all the 3 major ethnic groups (Chinese, Malay, Indian) are equally affected. Significantly, the number of women diagnosed with breast cancer is increasing at an average of 3% annually. Women of all age groups are affected but are more common in women above 40 years old. The incidence rate of breast cancer in Singapore is about one-third of that of American women and half that of European women. It is estimated that an American woman has a 12% chance of developing breast cancer in her lifetime. In Singapore this chance is lower, estimated at 4 to 5%. How best to prevent 1. Breast Self Examination Try to get in the habit of doing a breast self-examination once a month to familiarize yourself with how your breasts normally look and feel. Examine yourself several days after your period ends, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen and tender. If you are no longer having periods, choose a day that’s easy to remember, such as the first or last day of the month. When a breast cancer is detected and treated at an early stage there are several advantages. These tumours are often small (less than 1 cm diameter) and are suitable for less mutilating surgery e.g. Lumpectomy as compared to Mastectomy. There is also a higher chance of avoiding Chemotherapy after surgery 2. Taking folate rich foods Folate is involved in the synthesis, repair, and functioning of DNA, the body’s genetic map, and a deficiency of folate may result in damage to DNA that may lead to cancer. In addition to breast cancer, studies have also associated diets low in folate with increased risk of pancreatic, and colon cancer. Foods rich in folate include citrus fruits, citrus juices, dark green leafy vegetables (such as spinach), dried beans, and peas. 3. Weight management if you are overweight Being overweight, which increases the production of estrogen outside the ovaries and adds to the overall level of estrogen in the body 4. Avoid smoking and second hand smoke Smoking increases breast cancer risk by 30% while breathing secondhand smoke increases the risk by 70% in younger, primarily pre-menopausal women. The California Environmental Protection Agency has concluded that passive smoking causes breast cancer and the US Surgeon General has concluded that the evidence is “suggestive,” one step below causal. There is some evidence that exposure to tobacco smoke is most problematic between puberty and first childbirth. The reason that breast tissue appears most sensitive to chemical carcinogens in this phase is that breast cells are not fully differentiated until lactation. 5. Drinking moderately Having more than two alcoholic drinks per week, which can limit your liver’s ability to regulate blood estrogen levels, increases breast cancer risk. 6. Explore alternatives to Hormone Replacement Therapy Studies have shown that there is a strong association between the use of HRT and breast cancer risk. 7. Soy products The verdict is still out on this. While some studies showed soy offers a protective effect against breast cancer, a few studies showed the estrogen-like effects in isoflavones may be harmful for women with breast cancer. 8. Increase intake of Omega 3 oils. Some studies showed that it could reduce a woman’s risk from breast cancer. ** How you can help Buy a Pin Buy a pink ribbon pin (S$2) or a crystal pink ribbon pin (S$5). Pins can be bought from Club 21 stores, Lacoste, Royal Sporting House stores in the city, Nova stores in the city , Wisma Atria and the local Breast Cancer Foundation office at 26 Dunearn Road. Be a Volunteer. For the month of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, BCF needs help in selling the pins. Otherwise, simply register with them and state the area of interest. Donation Write your cheques to Breast Cancer Foundation and send to 26 Dunearn Road Singapore 309423. Buying pink ribbon items Some of these items were featured in Style.com The Estee Lauder Pink Ribbon set comprises of a High Gloss in Pink Ribbon and a crystal studded pink ribbon pin (not pictured). It retails at S$31 of which S$20 will be donated. Available at local Estee Lauder counters. Origins Limited Edition Pink Peace of Mind On the Spot Relief - retails at S$22 (S$2.20 will be donated). Available at local Origins counters. Clinique Great Cause Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion 200ml with Clinique pink ribbon handphone charm or keychain (not pictured) - retails at S$85 (S$10 will be donated). Available at local Clinique counters. Clinique Colour for a Cause lipstick in limited edition ribbon pink colour - retails at S$31 ($10 will be donated). Available at local Clinique counters. Bobbi Brown Pink Ribbon Collection - Tulle lip colour and Pink quartz lip gloss - retails at S$55 (S$10 will be donated). Available at local Bobbi Brown counters. Lacoste Watch Lacoste will donate 10 percent from its Mainsail Breast Cancer Awareness watch to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Chronograph watch, Lacoste, $355; available October 1 at lacoste.com. Jenny Han Dress The Young Survival Coalition will receive 20 percent of the proceeds from the sale of each limited-edition ruffle shirtdress. Cotton-silk dress, Jenny Han, $198; buy online now at shopintuition.com. Mackage Coat Mackage will donate $100 from the sale of each limited-edition wool coat—complete with white lining featuring pink ribbons—to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Sadly, it is only available at Saks Fifth Avenue Manhattan.It retails at $695 and only available from October 1. Power to you folks in Manhattan. C.O. Bigelow Gift Set Sales of the C.O. Bigelow Cancer Vixen Collection—which includes Lemon Cream Body Wash, Lemon Body Cream, Mentha Lip Tint in Pink Mint, Mentha Foot Tingling Foot Cream and Dr. Hiosous Quince Hand Lotion—will help the company make a $250,000 donation to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Cancer Vixen Collection, C.O. Bigelow, $29.50; buy online now at bathandbodyworks.com. New Balance Shoes New Balance will donate a minimum of $500,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure from the sales of the Lace up For the Cure clothing line. Buy the New Balance 768—the official shoe of the Komen Race for the Cure—and 15 percent of the proceeds will go towards the company’s pledge. 768 Pink Ribbon running shoe, New Balance, $95; buy online now at teamstore.com. Sonia Kashuk for Target Products Be a beauty do-gooder: when you buy a product from this limited-edition Sonia Kashuk for Target collection 15 percent of the purchase price will be donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Stock up on beauty buys with the Bagged It Pink cosmetic bag, Lips to the Rescue lip palette, Stroke of Genius purse brush set or the Dust Up blush brush and know that you’re getting pretty for the cause. Sonia Kashuk for Target products, $8-$20; available October 1 at target.com. Erin Condren Planner When you purchase this 12-month, week-at-a-glance life planner Erin Condren will donate $24 from each sale to support women and men in their fundraising efforts for a variety of foundations that support the cause including Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Revlon Run/Walk. 2009 Breast Cancer Awareness Life Planner, Erin Condren, $48; buy online now at erincondren.com. Michael Kors Tote The Breast Cancer Research Foundation will receive 50 percent of all sales of the Michael Michael Kors Ribbon Tote which comes complete with a pink ribbon charm. Canvas tote, Michael Kors, $68; available October 1 at michaelkors.com. Coach Watch The Breast Cancer Research Foundation recieves $100 from each pink Coach Lexington Breast Cancer Awareness watch. Watch of swiss quartz, Coach, $398; buy online now at coach.com). Tory Burch Tote When Tory Burch fans buy one of her limited-edition totes in October, 10 percent of the proceeds benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Canvas tote, Tory Burch, $195; visit toryburch.com for stores. Review - Skin MD Shielding Lotion When I was asked to review the Skin MD Shielding Lotion, I was anxious to sample it because It worked wonders for Mandrake, which says a lot as he had tried various different moisturizers and they are all touch and go. My cuticles and the skin around my heels are a tad dry and I wanted to see how different Skin MD would be from the hand creams I had used so far. I am not disappointed. I have tried many different brands of hand creams and moisturizers, including expensive heel creams touted as miracle creams. None work as well as Skin MD. Firstly, I like that I don’t need to rub the cream into my skin for it to be absorbed. It is easily absorbed and does not leave that layer of greasiness which I detest. Secondly, the lotion works in such a way that it transform the outer layer of skin into a hydrating invisible shield. In order for the skin to heal and return to its healthy condition you have to seal in the moisture and oils that are below the outer layer of skin and protect it from the irritants in the environment. Thirdly, you have to reapply a conventional lotion regularly to get the benefit. It will come off when you rub your hands or wash them, but a shielding lotion bonds with the skin and lasts for at least four hours. It is perfect for busy working people and mums - like me. Last but not least, it is even gentle enough to be used on the face. I have slightly oily and sensitive skin. After use, it leaves my skin soft and hydrated - but not greasy. It also works as a makeup primer - I have found that my makeup lasts longer when I use Skin MD. A few dermatological facts about Skin MD - No animal products or testing Fragrance and colorant free Dermatology tested Non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) Non greasy Hypoallergenic Paraben free It is not available in Singapore but you can order it here. Here’s a video showcasing the efficiency of the lotion: Top Ten Essentials for the Plus Size Woman 1. A White Shirt that is fitted to show off your curves snug but not tight. Any clothing that is too tight instantly adds on 10 pounds to your figure. not baggy or loose. A sack-like silhouette is not flattering nor does it look sharp made from a good quality cotton mix. It should weigh down properly and hold its shape. 2. Boot cut Jeans in dark indigo. Skinny or tapered cuts are not recommended as plus size women tend to have wider curvier hips - these two cuts don’t do much to elongate the lines of the body. A dark denim looks more slimming and goes well with either light or dark tops 3. Black Pencil skirt Pick a heavy fabric like gaberdine or wool mix that skims your hips comfortably. A knee length skirt helps to elongate the line of the body 4. Black Wrap Dress Pick a fabric in either rayon or cotton. A V neckline helps to draw the eye in, narrowing the silhouette. It can be dressed up for work days or dressed down for weekends. 5. A signature piece of jewellery It could be a pair of earrings or a signature cocktail ring - depending on your personal preferences. Proportions matter, so opt for a chunky or bold piece. 6. White fitted tee. Here, you can get good quality tees from Giordano, Gap, Old Navy etc. Else, you can order online from Target.com. Be sure to get a well fitted piece so that the tee falls snugly on the body The length should extend beyond the hip so as to elongate the lines of the body 7. A good pair of leather pumps Make sure it comes with good sturdy heels for support and comfort Opt for leather soles so that feet can breathe easily 8. A chic watch in a clean sophisticated look - suitable for work or play Diamonds in the bezel or watch face also add to the overall elegance 9. Black single breasted jacket in a good weighted fabric. Zara, G2000 and Gap has good affordable options. If you can splurge more for this investment, go for Armani, Hugo Boss or Massimo Dutti. 10. A good quality leather bag which you can use for work or weekends. Zara, G2000, Mango, Warehouse, Raoul and Aldo have chic affordable choices. Again, if you want to go all out on this accessory, you can have your pick from Celine, Loewe, Louis Vuitton, Furla or Chanel. Top Ten Essentials for the Plus Size Woman 1. A White Shirt that is fitted to show off your curves snug but not tight. Any clothing that is too tight instantly adds on 10 pounds to your figure. not baggy or loose. A sack-like silhouette is not flattering nor does it look sharp made from a good quality cotton mix. It should weigh down properly and hold its shape. 2. Boot cut Jeans in dark indigo. Skinny or tapered cuts are not recommended as plus size women tend to have wider curvier hips - these two cuts don’t do much to elongate the lines of the body. A dark denim looks more slimming and goes well with either light or dark tops 3. Black Pencil skirt Pick a heavy fabric like gaberdine or wool mix that skims your hips comfortably. A knee length skirt helps to elongate the line of the body 4. Black Wrap Dress Pick a fabric in either rayon or cotton. A V neckline helps to draw the eye in, narrowing the silhouette. It can be dressed up for work days or dressed down for weekends. 5. A signature piece of jewellery It could be a pair of earrings or a signature cocktail ring - depending on your personal preferences. Proportions matter, so opt for a chunky or bold piece. 6. White fitted tee. Here, you can get good quality tees from Giordano, Gap, Old Navy etc. Else, you can order online from Target.com. Be sure to get a well fitted piece so that the tee falls snugly on the body The length should extend beyond the hip so as to elongate the lines of the body 7. A good pair of leather pumps Make sure it comes with good sturdy heels for support and comfort Opt for leather soles so that feet can breathe easily 8. A chic watch in a clean sophisticated look - suitable for work or play Diamonds in the bezel or watch face also add to the overall elegance 9. Black single breasted jacket in a good weighted fabric. Zara, G2000 and Gap has good affordable options. If you can splurge more for this investment, go for Armani, Hugo Boss or Massimo Dutti. 10. A good quality leather bag which you can use for work or weekends. Zara, G2000, Mango, Warehouse, Raoul and Aldo have chic affordable choices. Again, if you want to go all out on this accessory, you can have your pick from Celine, Loewe, Louis Vuitton, Furla or Chanel. My Stand on Counterfeit Products “What’s wrong with buying a good quality imitation?”, you ask. The counterfeit market is not funded by one or two ignorant person(s) asking this question. It is fuelled by women around the world happily buying counterfeit goods and who would ask the same question if questioned. What they also don’t know is that the $100 they paid for each of their imitation LV bags is channeled into money laundering and funding underground businesses. The majority of counterfeit goods are manufactured in Asia, mostly from China and Korea, and are made by slave workers. Most of them are young children, some as young as six (!), who are taken away from their homes to work in shockingly poor conditions, and for as little as a dollar an hour. The counterfeiting industry rakes up to $650 billion a year. That $650 billion is going somewhere, and you can be sure it’s not going back to the child labour who make these merchandise. The money goes into cash flow supporting the drug business, arms business and funding international terrorism. Some people think it is not worth it to pay $10,000 for a Birkin. Some may not be able to afford the real item. If one can find a knock-off out there that is a hundred times cheaper, why pay so much for the real thing? But stop to ponder a moment. Why is the real bag priced that high in the first place? Hermès Birkin handbags are hand-made, stitch by stitch, by experienced craftsmen, one of the primary factors contributing to the high price of all Hermès handbags. The production of each bag may take up to 48 work hours, translating into weeks. Involving a multitude of steps, each bag is of very high quality and immense craftsmanship. When you think about the cost of a specialized artisan who makes those bags, it’s very much worth the price. Counterfeits on the other hand, are of extremely inferior quality. Instead of using fine lambskins or calfskins, counterfeiters use plastic or man-made leather. These will not be lasting and the designs are usually off. Even for the so called “good quality” imitations, the stitching is usually inferior and not even, the printing skewed and the print (if any) off colour. People who carry imitation goods may not have any idea that it is painfully obvious that they are projecting a false glamorization. The issue here though, is not about how much business they lose anymore, because in most cases, consumers who resort to purchasing a counterfeit probably won’t buy the real thing anyway. The real issue comes in what does it stand for and how far back you trace it as to the slave labor that happened in the beginning. It’s an intellectual property and a human rights issue, and that is what’s serious. The luxury brands will always be making money because luxury goods will always be a hot commodity. When there is a high demand for luxury goods, there will be counterfeits. France has laws implemented to target the counterfeiting industry. If you enter France with a fraudulent item, you will be fined very heavily, and your item will be confiscated. That is what they’re doing to protect their national industry. It does not seem to be happening in Asia soon, but in time to come, I hope to see that happening. Ultimately, it is really up to us- the consumers. When consumers boycott counterfeits, there will be no need for it. If that doesn’t happen, it will continue to be there; it will continue to be a multi million dollar industry. Let us do our part in not making child labour lucrative. My Stand on Counterfeit Products “What’s wrong with buying a good quality imitation?”, you ask. The counterfeit market is not funded by one or two ignorant person(s) asking this question. It is fuelled by women around the world happily buying counterfeit goods and who would ask the same question if questioned. What they also don’t know is that the $100 they paid for each of their imitation LV bags is channeled into money laundering and funding underground businesses. The majority of counterfeit goods are manufactured in Asia, mostly from China and Korea, and are made by slave workers. Most of them are young children, some as young as six (!), who are taken away from their homes to work in shockingly poor conditions, and for as little as a dollar an hour. The counterfeiting industry rakes up to $650 billion a year. That $650 billion is going somewhere, and you can be sure it’s not going back to the child labour who make these merchandise. The money goes into cash flow supporting the drug business, arms business and funding international terrorism. Some people think it is not worth it to pay $10,000 for a Birkin. Some may not be able to afford the real item. If one can find a knock-off out there that is a hundred times cheaper, why pay so much for the real thing? But stop to ponder a moment. Why is the real bag priced that high in the first place? Hermès Birkin handbags are hand-made, stitch by stitch, by experienced craftsmen, one of the primary factors contributing to the high price of all Hermès handbags. The production of each bag may take up to 48 work hours, translating into weeks. Involving a multitude of steps, each bag is of very high quality and immense craftsmanship. When you think about the cost of a specialized artisan who makes those bags, it’s very much worth the price. Counterfeits on the other hand, are of extremely inferior quality. Instead of using fine lambskins or calfskins, counterfeiters use plastic or man-made leather. These will not be lasting and the designs are usually off. Even for the so called “good quality” imitations, the stitching is usually inferior and not even, the printing skewed and the print (if any) off colour. People who carry imitation goods may not have any idea that it is painfully obvious that they are projecting a false glamorization. The issue here though, is not about how much business they lose anymore, because in most cases, consumers who resort to purchasing a counterfeit probably won’t buy the real thing anyway. The real issue comes in what does it stand for and how far back you trace it as to the slave labor that happened in the beginning. It’s an intellectual property and a human rights issue, and that is what’s serious. The luxury brands will always be making money because luxury goods will always be a hot commodity. When there is a high demand for luxury goods, there will be counterfeits. France has laws implemented to target the counterfeiting industry. If you enter France with a fraudulent item, you will be fined very heavily, and your item will be confiscated. That is what they’re doing to protect their national industry. It does not seem to be happening in Asia soon, but in time to come, I hope to see that happening. Ultimately, it is really up to us- the consumers. When consumers boycott counterfeits, there will be no need for it. If that doesn’t happen, it will continue to be there; it will continue to be a multi million dollar industry. Let us do our part in not making child labour lucrative. Bath sanctuary As I eased into the tub of warm water scented with Vanilla Citrus from the latest shipped purchase after a long day, my mind and body started to relax and unwind. Lighted aromatherapy candles. Silence. The thoughts washed over my closed eyelids and sank into my languid mind. Another simple pleasure that I treasure. Bath sanctuary As I eased into the tub of warm water scented with Vanilla Citrus from the latest shipped purchase after a long day, my mind and body started to relax and unwind. Lighted aromatherapy candles. Silence. The thoughts washed over my closed eyelids and sank into my languid mind. Another simple pleasure that I treasure. Coastal Scents 10% discount coupon code I just got this email from Coastal Scents. Dear Coastal Scents Subscriber, This Friday, we are glad to announce a great sale for everyone! This offer is only good for subscribers using the code below at checkout: $ 5.00 OFF ORDERS OF $ 50.00 OR MORE or $ 10.00 OFF ORDERS OF $ 100.00 OR MORE To get the discount, you need to use the coupon code “EZ” in your shopping cart and hit recalculate. If the code is not used, you will not get the discount - no exceptions. The coupon code expires 8-17-08 midnight EST. Happy Shopping! Greetings from Naples, Florida Kathy , Steve & the crew at Coastal Scents www.coastalscents.com Coastal Scents 10% discount coupon code I just got this email from Coastal Scents. Dear Coastal Scents Subscriber, This Friday, we are glad to announce a great sale for everyone! This offer is only good for subscribers using the code below at checkout: $ 5.00 OFF ORDERS OF $ 50.00 OR MORE or $ 10.00 OFF ORDERS OF $ 100.00 OR MORE To get the discount, you need to use the coupon code “EZ” in your shopping cart and hit recalculate. If the code is not used, you will not get the discount - no exceptions. The coupon code expires 8-17-08 midnight EST. Happy Shopping! Greetings from Naples, Florida Kathy , Steve & the crew at Coastal Scents www.coastalscents.com Mask feature - Dainty Masks I ordered Dainty Masks from an overseas spree at $0.85 per piece. It’s available here in Beaute Spring - but they are retailing it at $2.50(!) per piece. I feel so virtuous after saving so much. All In One Collagen Mask Major Ingredients: Hydro Molecules, Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Enzyme, Vitamins A, C and E, that helps to replenish the loss of moisture, giving you a suppler, firmer and most importantly fairer, younger looking skin. Effects: 1.To whiten and re-hydrate your skin 2.Prevent wrinkles by increasing skin elasticity 3.To repair and re-conceal wounds and sunken scars 4.To facilitates the recovery of skin metabolism 5.Modulate and stabilizes skin pH This is a performer. After application, my skin feels and looks visibly brighter, clearer and softer. There is a definite bounce to my skin. There will definitely be stocks of this mask in my beauty cabinet. Major Ingredients: Natural Lotus Flower Extracts, Purified Water, Plant Placenta, Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, Vitamin E Oil that gives you a silky and moist skin. Effects: 1. Close up open pores 2. Rejuvenates cells and possesses anti-oxidants 3. Smoothen and moisture your skin 4. To whiten and re-hydrate your skin A good mask for nourishing and relaxation. I like that it has collagen and placenta extracts to nourish the skin. Major Ingredients: Natural Lycopene Extracts from tomato, Hydro Molecules, Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamins A, C, E. Effect: 1. Gives you a supple, silky and radiant look 2. Exfoliates dead skin cells 3. Possesses antioxidants to prevent skin damage from harmful UV rays 4. Whitening and re-hydration of skin This mask is for anti ageing purpose as it contains antioxidant elements. Contains collagen and HA for firming purposes too. Major Ingredients include Di Water, Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Brabadensis Leaf Juice, Vitamine Oil, 1.3-Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Caster Oil, Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulost, Witch Hazel Extract, Algae Extract, Amino Acid, Enzyme Effects: 1) Skin brightening with moisture replenishment 2) Helps restore skin structure for skin that is soft and radiant 3) Retains & replenishes moisture in skin preventing wrinkles 4) Increase skin cells metabolism and scar healing 5) Prevents occurrence of acne I’ve always liked aloe products for the super healing and regeneration properties. I used this mask after pimple extraction and it calms my skin very well. Major Ingredients include Di Water, Hyaluronic Acid, Citronella Extract, Collagen, Aloe Brabadensis Leaf Juice, 1.3-Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Sorbeth-30, Proplene Glycol, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Caster Oil, Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose, Witch Hazel Extract, Algae Extract, Amino Acid, Enzyme Effects: Citronella mask helps you to get a firm & elastic skin. It is also able to control sebum secretions from the skin, thus making your skin less prone to the blemishes due to oily skin. The formula helps to restore skin structure making your skin soft and radiant. It also retains and replenishes moisture in the skin. Suitable for all skin types especially oily skin. I like this mask as it is meant for oily skin and it helps to curb sebum production. I find that my skin is not as shiny for  a period after I use it. It also helps in hydrating oily but dehydrated skins. Ingredients: Natural Rose Extracts, Hydro Molecule Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Enzyme, and Vitamin E Oil that gives you a supple and radiant skin. Effects: 1.Rejuvenate cells, refresh dull and tired looking skin 2.Giving your skin a supple and radiant look 3.To whiten and re-hydrate your skin 4.Prevent wrinkles by increasing skin elasticity I didn’t find this mask as good as the All in one collagen. But the scent is very pleasant and it is relaxing after a day of work. Mask feature - Dainty Masks I ordered Dainty Masks from an overseas spree at $0.85 per piece. It’s available here in Beaute Spring - but they are retailing it at $2.50(!) per piece. I feel so virtuous after saving so much. All In One Collagen Mask Major Ingredients: Hydro Molecules, Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Enzyme, Vitamins A, C and E, that helps to replenish the loss of moisture, giving you a suppler, firmer and most importantly fairer, younger looking skin. Effects: 1.To whiten and re-hydrate your skin 2.Prevent wrinkles by increasing skin elasticity 3.To repair and re-conceal wounds and sunken scars 4.To facilitates the recovery of skin metabolism 5.Modulate and stabilizes skin pH This is a performer. After application, my skin feels and looks visibly brighter, clearer and softer. There is a definite bounce to my skin. There will definitely be stocks of this mask in my beauty cabinet. Major Ingredients: Natural Lotus Flower Extracts, Purified Water, Plant Placenta, Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, Vitamin E Oil that gives you a silky and moist skin. Effects: 1. Close up open pores 2. Rejuvenates cells and possesses anti-oxidants 3. Smoothen and moisture your skin 4. To whiten and re-hydrate your skin A good mask for nourishing and relaxation. I like that it has collagen and placenta extracts to nourish the skin. Major Ingredients: Natural Lycopene Extracts from tomato, Hydro Molecules, Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamins A, C, E. Effect: 1. Gives you a supple, silky and radiant look 2. Exfoliates dead skin cells 3. Possesses antioxidants to prevent skin damage from harmful UV rays 4. Whitening and re-hydration of skin This mask is for anti ageing purpose as it contains antioxidant elements. Contains collagen and HA for firming purposes too. Major Ingredients include Di Water, Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Brabadensis Leaf Juice, Vitamine Oil, 1.3-Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Caster Oil, Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulost, Witch Hazel Extract, Algae Extract, Amino Acid, Enzyme Effects: 1) Skin brightening with moisture replenishment 2) Helps restore skin structure for skin that is soft and radiant 3) Retains & replenishes moisture in skin preventing wrinkles 4) Increase skin cells metabolism and scar healing 5) Prevents occurrence of acne I’ve always liked aloe products for the super healing and regeneration properties. I used this mask after pimple extraction and it calms my skin very well. Major Ingredients include Di Water, Hyaluronic Acid, Citronella Extract, Collagen, Aloe Brabadensis Leaf Juice, 1.3-Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Sorbeth-30, Proplene Glycol, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Caster Oil, Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose, Witch Hazel Extract, Algae Extract, Amino Acid, Enzyme Effects: Citronella mask helps you to get a firm & elastic skin. It is also able to control sebum secretions from the skin, thus making your skin less prone to the blemishes due to oily skin. The formula helps to restore skin structure making your skin soft and radiant. It also retains and replenishes moisture in the skin. Suitable for all skin types especially oily skin. I like this mask as it is meant for oily skin and it helps to curb sebum production. I find that my skin is not as shiny for  a period after I use it. It also helps in hydrating oily but dehydrated skins. Ingredients: Natural Rose Extracts, Hydro Molecule Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Enzyme, and Vitamin E Oil that gives you a supple and radiant skin. Effects: 1.Rejuvenate cells, refresh dull and tired looking skin 2.Giving your skin a supple and radiant look 3.To whiten and re-hydrate your skin 4.Prevent wrinkles by increasing skin elasticity I didn’t find this mask as good as the All in one collagen. But the scent is very pleasant and it is relaxing after a day of work. Shiseido Vital Perfection Masks I have been ordering quite a number of masks to try out lately, and have found a few to be rather outstanding. Shiseido Vital Perfection Black Mask (credits to balloonbs) There are two types of masks under the Shiseido Vital Perfection peel off masks series. This is the black one - for removing blackheads and drawing out impurities from the skin. The usage is rather simple. As with the usual peel off masks - apply a thick layer on cleansed dry face. Leave it on for 25 - 30 minutes and peel off. The effect is as per the picture of the peel off layer above. I could literally see tiny little blackheads on the peeled off layer, though not as bad as the one pictured above as I do my facials and masks very regularly. I have read reviews where this black mask helps to reduce the size of pores too. Shiseido Vital Perfection White Mask (credits to gw3nnie) The application method is as above. This one is for whitening, brightening and hydration. I found both masks to be excellent. Sadly, they are not available here so I had to order them from an overseas spree at $0.85 a piece. There are even sellers selling these at $2.00 online but recently I found a seller who is selling at $0.60 per piece. I still have 10 pieces for each mask so probably will order from her next month. Shiseido Vital Perfection Masks I have been ordering quite a number of masks to try out lately, and have found a few to be rather outstanding. Shiseido Vital Perfection Black Mask (credits to balloonbs) There are two types of masks under the Shiseido Vital Perfection peel off masks series. This is the black one - for removing blackheads and drawing out impurities from the skin. The usage is rather simple. As with the usual peel off masks - apply a thick layer on cleansed dry face. Leave it on for 25 - 30 minutes and peel off. The effect is as per the picture of the peel off layer above. I could literally see tiny little blackheads on the peeled off layer, though not as bad as the one pictured above as I do my facials and masks very regularly. I have read reviews where this black mask helps to reduce the size of pores too. Shiseido Vital Perfection White Mask (credits to gw3nnie) The application method is as above. This one is for whitening, brightening and hydration. I found both masks to be excellent. Sadly, they are not available here so I had to order them from an overseas spree at $0.85 a piece. There are even sellers selling these at $2.00 online but recently I found a seller who is selling at $0.60 per piece. I still have 10 pieces for each mask so probably will order from her next month. Style Book - wicker purses Ferragamo Isabella Fiore (top and bottom) Kate Spade (top and bottom) Style Book - wicker purses Ferragamo Isabella Fiore (top and bottom) Kate Spade (top and bottom) Beauty Freebies If you like to sample products before buying the full size item If you, like me, don’t like to ask counter sales people for samples, lest they look at you with jaundiced eyes If you like to pack sample sized products for travelling If you simply like samples just because Then please check out this site for free samples of skincare products . You only need to pay the postage costs, which is more than fair enough. Beauty Freebies If you like to sample products before buying the full size item If you, like me, don’t like to ask counter sales people for samples, lest they look at you with jaundiced eyes If you like to pack sample sized products for travelling If you simply like samples just because Then please check out this site for free samples of skincare products . You only need to pay the postage costs, which is more than fair enough. New Bag Collection Just launched a new bag collection in the shop. Do go take a peek New Bag Collection Just launched a new bag collection in the shop. Do go take a peek Coastal Scents Brushes at 40% off! Just sharing the 40% discount at Coastal Scents with you folks Check out those with the pink sale badges. Coastal Scents Brushes at 40% off! Just sharing the 40% discount at Coastal Scents with you folks Check out those with the pink sale badges. Chloé Party Black frock, hand knit white on black Camellia shrug, pearls for the night. Peep toe heels and diamante clutch not pictured. Mineral makeup for the night - midnight blue smoky eye Dishing out lots of free drinks! Very potent ones if I might add. I got sloshed after ONE lychee martini. Gorgeous singer who was playing the piano. I totally dig the white baby grand. The usual taitai turnout. I think I am getting tired of parties like these where people make small talk and get sloshed. I think I am getting old. ** Left the party after a while and hear this - I walked home. OK, it wasn’t that far away (lesser than 1km I think) and there were no cabs (it was drizzling). And so, I walked home in a “high”. The walking area beside the highway and what do you know… Imagine walking halfway and then coming up against this. I sure as hell am not going to detour back, even though I am wearing a dress. Strangely I started to giggle as I climb over. This will only happen when I am inebriated, I assure you. Other times I will most likely utter some untypable expletives. All in all, I think the party was rather boring (or maybe I am jaded). Raoul parties now, are much more entertaining, what with free booze, models galore and good music. Lavazza Calendar Shoot I love how rich and opulent the colour scheme and art direction is orchestrated. Absolutely stunning. Hip scarves for Bellydancing With me, any activity translate into a fashion need. As can be evidenced from my belly dancing classes: Forest green and black You can’t tell from the picture, but this is a very luxuriously deep burgundy purple. It was the last piece and luckily my sharp eye ferretted it out of the pile of scarves.   Yes, you don’t need to say it. I know I am hopeless.