11 May 2016

Beauty Base - bSoul facial & MTM back therapy

Went for bSoul facial and massage before a festive season previously and wow, the facial results turned out to be SO GOOD. If you hadn't knew about bSoul before, here is more details on one of their skincare kit.

bSoul facial is available at several salons, and I visited one at Clementi - Beauty Base. It's less than 5 mins walk from the station if you travel by mrt :)

 photo Beauty Base bSoul Facial 1_zpsozltpssh.jpg



The introduction to the products used were pretty straight-to-the-point, a manner which I’m personally fond of. No overpromises or fanciful claims that builds up your expectations only to give end results that is below mediocre, which happens at some salons. The therapist used pretty layman terms to explain the products with their usage and effects, which makes it easy for me to understand and absorb the information (especially while lying on the comfy bed and being only half awake).

My skin is pretty dehydrated these days due to the cold and dry air-conditioning in office and insufficient plain fluid consumption. Thus, the therapist recommended facial that can help to restore my skin’s moisture and pH level which in turn will brighten up my complexion. 

The range of products used for the facial.



To my amazement, there were no high-technology machines or 'fanciful' creams or serums used during the facial. It is a classic facial, without extractions, using the exact bSoul set shown above that can be purchased and used at home on our own! 

1) Thorough removal of my makeup
This took possibly thrice the amount of time I would spent removing makeup on my own. Must be really thorough :D ok, i'm 1/2 kidding.

2) Cleansing with my favourite bSoul 3 Activ scrub
Again, the therapist spent 2-3 times the effort than I usually do when I use the scrub. She reminded me that the scrub can be effective as a hydration mask too when used together with a serum. The granular beads from the scrub will break down into waxy state after few minutes of scrubbing and it will act to hydrate the skin like a mask. Hence, the 'scrub' was left on my skin while she proceeded to trim my eyebrows.

3) Mask
This was applied in conjuction with the facial massage.
Do note that the facial massage is rather heavy-handed as compared to any other facial massages i've done before. Not something that you will fall asleep with. But neither is it painful at all, hence no worries!
The massage skill of the therapist helps in getting the products absorbed more effectively into my skin as well as reduce any water retention, making my face feel lighter and refreshed, perhaps even more nimble in my expressions that evening.

Now I look forward to using my remaining bSoul scrub in a new manner at home!

There is a makeup room for girls to tidy up after a good sleep facial so that you can hang out shopping even right after a facial.



Of cos, please go and try the facial yourselves to experience the goodness of it. Would be great to pamper your skin and be ready to face the world in the upcoming (June holiday) travel season :)



(Beauty Base is 20 years old! Pretty established for a beauty salon!)




Other than bSoul facial, Beauty Base also offers MTM back therapy.



Prior to trying out MTM massage, I've already prepped myself for a painful experience as what Mia had shared. It's not meant to be the 'shiok' kind of massage, but a real, painful jabbing type. I was honestly looking forward to some beneficial jabbing to clear the knots in my shoulders, and lower back which I strained some time in Dec :(



Now, what exactly is MTM massage? This therapy is a new type of corrective massage, based on Traditional Chinese Medicinal (TCM) Philosophy and Modern Western Medical principal. This technique is aided by specialized handheld rod (read: buffalo horn), which goes beyond the conventional superficial skin and muscle levels. Check out the 'rods':



Each of our backs is like a main power switch that reflects the major organs and nerve systems of our bodies. Here's an overall view of the acupoints on our backs.



The treatment works by stimulating these meridian points in our body to work on the facial restrictions and scar tissues in the muscle. It can be performed in one session for a full body treatment, or it can be localized for specific target area such as face, and is designed to address stubborn problems such as chronic stiff shoulders or bloated face (depending on which area are you performing the treatment on).

Unfortunately, I'm soooo sensitive (read: ticklish) to any touches on my (mid) back that the massage could not be done full-out over that area. The therapist was able to carry out the acupressure treatment properly for my shoulders and neck regions though, helping with the relief of my stiff shoulders and that chronic pain. It wasn't as painful as expected - the massage on my neck, shoulder and lower back region were just that slightly uncomfortable during the session.

The massage therapist, however, warned me of subsequent aching muscles which I felt indeed the very next morning. It was far more sore than I've ever came across before, or have expected.
Thankfully, they gave me the tub of ageless herbal cream to help with the expected aches and I had it rubbed onto my shoulders immediately after I woke up. It soothed the aftermath aches considerably!



http://www.meditrina.com.sg/detail.php?ProductID=351

Overall, I find the MTM massage much more effective in curing my muscle stiffness than another other solutions I've tried so far. If you have problems which regular massages can't help, do give MTM massage a try!




BEAUTY BASE

Block 443 Clementi Avenue 3
#01-69 Singapore 120443

Operating hours:
Mon -Fri: 10.30am-8.30pm
Sat -Sun: 10.30am-6pm
P.Holiday closed.

Tel: 6872 2268
Fax: 6872 2268
E-mail: beauty.base@gmail.com

21 February 2016

Bespoke Box Singapore - Review

It's been some time since I've gotten a beauty box. Cos I can never finish the products and samples in time before more new products come in the following month! :X They snowballed quite badly and I kinda stopped subscribing to the monthly boxes!

However, there's a monthly event which will never fail to come (and go)...and I'm sure all girls will understand. All those PMS weeks and hormonal changes that make us cranky and emotional, plus physical aches and pains to endure >.<

Now, how about a monthly kit to make this period (pun intended) more bearable? Moreover, there will be no worries about not finishing any items in the box before the next month ;) It is definitely some comfort and fun to look forward to!

I was happy to receive one from the Bespoke Box SG team in February!


What is Bespoke Box?
Bespoke Box is a premium subscription service created to help you manage the time of the month. A box of goodies will be delivered right to your doorstep a week before your period for you to enjoy. 

There are different subscription plans available – 3-months ($63), 6-months ($120), or get 15% off with a whole year plan ($228). 
There is also an one-time option ($22) to send as a gift to your friends. All prices are inclusive of free local shipping.


What’s in it?
The contents vary by month, but you may look forward to 5 items – pampering Bath and Body products, beauty products, snacks, feminine items or an art gift. All items are travel-sized or full-sized, so you can fully enjoy the products.


For the February box, we have included a Pocky snack, a Pretz snack, a specially handmade voodoo doll, a pack of Poise pantyliners, Sierra Bee’s honey lip balm and Crabtree & Evelyn hand cream. Total content worth at $37!

Check out the cute voodoo.. ;p


The crabtree & evelyn hand cream, and Sierra Bees' organic lip balm may not be that specific to our monthly woes, but hey, it's always good to treat yourself better! Furthermore, February is the month of love 


Snacking will never go wrong! Get your chocolate fix with the Pocky especially.
And some tea to go along?


Last but not least.. Liners to prep and keep yourself comfy :)


If you're interested already, here's a summary of how it works. 


Once payment is made, the Bespoke Box team will get in touch with you for your mailing particulars and preferred delivery date, to ensure your box reaches you before your period.
Sign up by 29th of the month to receive next month's box!

Use the discount code OYHZ20 for 20% off the 3-month, 6-month or 12-month plans. This code ends on 20 March 2016.
Hop over to Bespoke Box to view the past boxes!

I'm running a giveaway for a Bespoke Box on IG, see you there! :)

18 February 2016

Swensen's Gastronomic World Tour! - Around The World In More Than 80 Days

This year, Swensen’s introduces a foodie world tour – Around The World in More Than 80 Days – where an exclusive dish, inspired by a country’s cuisine is released each month throughout the year.

Since the beginning of Swensen’s, its quality yet affordable food and cozy ambience has won the hearts of many, letting people from all walks of life carve out a memory at Singapore’s favourite family-friendly restaurant. In 2016, Swensen’s will push boundaries to create a memorable dining adventure for their long-time patrons. Inspired by the novel and movie – Around the World in 80 Days – Swensen’s will be taking their diners on a gastronomic journey beyond the little red dot through monthly new dishes from every continent.

Fans of Swensen’s can look forward to an exclusive dish released each month that is inspired by a country’s unique culinary heritage. The first three delectable releases from January to March 2016 respectively are Hurry Curry Crayfish Pasta, Pineapple Fried Rice Paradise and Essentially Hambagu. These seasonal dishes will tickle your taste buds with authentic country origin flavors complete with Swensen’s local twist.

February 2016
Pineapple Fried Rice Paradise ($15.90)


 This Thailand-inspired mouth-watering combination of sweetpineapple chunks and savoury cashew fried rice represents the best of Thailand. Enjoy the merriment of delicate ocean catch, Wahoo fish fillet, thoroughly coated with Swensen’s rendition of sweet Thai sauce with fragrant pineapple rice that comes with prawn crackers for that extra crunch. As Wahoo fishes are wild ocean catches, so they tend to have a firmer bite as compared to fresh water fishes that are soft and crumbly.
Completed with a zesty Thai salad, this medley of flavours is a taste of the Tropics!

March 2016
Essentially Hambagu ($15.90)


With the influence of the western love for burgers and steaks, and Nihon’s rich ancient culture and heritage, Hambagu is born. Diners are in for a treat as they tuck in freshly grounded beef with chunky sautéed shiitake mushrooms generously mixed within, which are then grilled to a deep brown peak and served with a specially concocted dipping Japanese barbeque sauce. End of the meal by refreshing your taste buds with a light Asian salad and sautéed shiitake mushrooms.

Mad Hatter’s Ciabatta Tea Set is back!


The perfect start to a 3-course menu is with Swensen’s Ciabatta Tea Set that comes with signature baked honey buttercream Ciabatta Rolls, warm and fluffy, paired together with their recently launched, free-flow Custom Roasted Coffee. Coffee beans hailing from Sumatra Mandheling, Tanzania, El Salvador and Brazilian Robusta are given the Full City Plus roast treatment, to produce a coffee blend that boasts a full body finish with hints of earthy notes and caramelized nuts.

If you're not a coffee lover, the free-flow of drinks can be tea or soft drinks!

Swensen’s Mad Hatter’s Ciabatta Tea Set, $5.00 is available at all Swensen’s outlets on weekdays from 2.30pm – 5.00pm only. Price is before GST and service charge.

***

Swensen’s Around the World in more than 80 Days Menu launches in Swensen’s restaurants islandwide from 1st January 2016, and will run till 31st December 2016.

Exclusively for HSBC Cardholders: enjoy 15% off an order of Around the World dish or 10% off the entire bill.

23 December 2015

Alfero Gelato - Christmas Superstars

Received these from Alfero Gelato over the weekend!
Just in time for x'mas party :)


Here is my previous post on Alfero Gelato.
Recently crowned the Best Ice Cream Parlour by RAS Epicurean Star Award Singapore 2015, Alfero Gelato is made using only the finest quality ingredients imported from Italy and other parts of Europe. Alfero Gelato is stored in pozzetto cabinets where exposure to light and air is greatly reduced, thus ensuring the smoothness and quality of the ice cream. Marco believes in serving only the best-tasting gelato to his customers, which is why he insists on keeping his gelato covered while on display (unlike other ice cream cafes which display their products in full glory while compromising on taste and texture of their creams). This brave move and unique  concept will certainly delight customers, as the difference is certainly unmistakable and almost impossible to miss. One taste of Alfero Gelato, you’d never want to keep it uncovered again.


This christmas, Alfero Gelato came up with four special flavours - the Christmas Superstars!
Known for making their gelato 96% fat free and with free-range milk, you can definitely indulge guilt-free this festive season :)



From the top left, anti-clockwise:

Mascarpone Pistachio 
Pistachio gelato is Alfero Gelato’s favourite among customers. For X’mas this year, we combine the rich flavour from pistachios with the full-bodied taste from mascarpone cheese to give our customers the best of both worlds!

Strawberry Cheese 
Refreshing and tangy strawberries folded into a blend of creamy surprise with full-bodied mascarpone cheese.

Cookies & Cream (my personal favourite!) 
Who doesn’t love chocolates? And the combination of chocolate cookies and sweet cream is definitely one big winning gelato flavour.

Salted Caramel 
Who doesn’t love chocolates? And the combination of chocolate cookies and sweet cream is definitely one big winning gelato flavour.


Prices:
$5 per scoop (in a cup) for Mascarpone Pistachio (Premium flavour)
$7.50 for 2 scoops (in a cup) for Mascarpone Pistachio (Premium flavour)
$10 for 3 scoops (in a cup) for Mascarpone Pistachio (Premium flavour)

$4.50 per scoop (in a cup) for all the other 3 flavours
$6.50 for 2 scoops (in a cup) for all the other 3 flavours
$8.50 3 scoops (in a cup) for all the other 3 flavours

$17 for 400g tub for Mascarpone Pistachio (Premium flavour)
$15 for 400g tub for all the other 3 flavours
$21 for 500g tub for Mascarpone Pistachio (Premium flavour)
$18 for 500g tub for all the other 3 flavours

$39 for 1kg tub for Mascarpone Pistachio (Premium flavour)
$35 for 1kg tub for all the other 3 flavours

***

Alfero Gelato is conveniently located at two locations: 
81 MacPherson Lane #01-37 
277 Orchard Road #B2-06 Orchard Gateway

These christmas flavours are available at Alfero Gelato outlets from 19th Dec onwards, while stocks last.

8 December 2015

TheShiokBook media launch @ The Laneway Market

Attended the launch of TheShiokBook at The Laneway Market recently. The café has a clean, muji-feel to it, and beautifully decorated with babybreaths. 
I love the place pretty much that we stayed for quite a while even after the event has ended, haha.



The Laneway Market

266 Tanjong Katong Road Singapore 437053

Tel:
67198832


Operating Hours:
4pm to 9.30pm Tuesday
  11am to 9.30pm Wednesday to Friday
  10am to 9.30pm Saturday & Sunday
  Close on Monday

Website:
http://thelanewaymarket.com

Enjoyed the reception by TheShiokBook team!

*http://michhysaurous.blogspot.sg/




Now, TheShiokBook is a dining guide which offers either 1-for-1 deals, or 25% off the total bill at popular dining places in Singapore. There are more than 60 different partnering merchants with some popular hideouts such as Siam Society, and I Am Cafe. And The Laneway Market too! :) 






TheShiokBook can be purchased here at $45 each.

What I like most about TheShiokBook is their corporate initiative to give back to the society. TheShiokBook has collaborated with 3 charities (mainly), Singapore Cancer Society, Assisi Hospice and Ronald McDonald House – For every book purchased from the website, S$10 will be donated to either of these charity organization of the buyer’s preference. What a perfect win-win plan! 


Now, it's your turn to help them give back to society and enjoy the great deals with friends! :)

23 November 2015

ZALORA x Air Asia Loyalty Programme

*credits to Zalora

If you love to travel, or if you’re from neighbouring Asian countries, you would certainly be familiar with Air Asia - Malaysian low-cost airline headquartered near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Being a provider of low cost airfare and flying to several destinations across the region, they now have the Air Asia Loyalty Programme where you can expect even lower air fares! 

AirAsia BIG is Air Asia loyalty programme, and a BIG Shot is what you are when you sign up with AirAsia BIG. As a BIG Shot, you get to earn BIG Points with every flight booking and in return, redeem more flights with those points absolutely FREE! 

Signing up as BIG Shot is simple! With its card-less programme, you will be assigned a BIG ID once your online registration is complete so that you can start earning and redeeming for FREE flights and hotel stays straight away. You can also use your BIG Points to redeem for your seats, meals, insurance and baggage during your flight redemption. 



Now there is another way for you to earn Big Points! Air Asia has partnered with ZALORA to bring you more opportunities to rack up those points. From 21 September to 31 December, when you purchase items from ZALORA, you get to earn 1 point for every SGD 1 spent. Remember, first you have to be a Big member before you can start accumulating your points. Enter your Big Shot ID and you are on your way to getting your points! This is an excellent chance for you to shop for your favourite travel styles and get your special travel accessories. If you are a backpacker, check out the many bags we have. With their multiple pockets and zips, it is the epitome of functionality. If you value your comfort, we recommend dressing for your destination. A kimono wrap for the beach and pair that with sunglasses. Get more out of your trip when you can shop for it and earn points!


STEP 1
Complete your purchase

STEP 2
When you have completed your purchase, you will
land on the Order Confirmation page
Input your BIG Member ID into the box to earn BIG Points

STEP 3
Earn points based on the following structure:
Every S$50 spent in a single order will earn you 50 Big points
There is a bonus 100 Big points when the total spend exceeds SGD 100!
Example:

SPEND ON ZALORABIG POINTS
Less than S$500
S$5050
Between S$50 and S$10050
S$100100+100
S$200200+100


1. This Campaign runs from 21st September 2015, 00:01 (GMT +8) and closes on 31st December, 2015 23:59 (GMT +8) ("Campaign Period"). The Organizers reserves the right to amend or extend the duration of the Campaign Period at any time as it deem fit.
2. To qualify and participate in this Campaign, Participants must do the following ("Campaign Requirements") :
(a) Must be an existing AirAsia BIG member (having subscribed and registered for membership under the loyalty and rewards program operated by BIG under the name "BIG Loyalty Program") and have a unique registration number known as the "BIG Shot ID" at the point of participation in the Contest.
(b) Aged 18 years or older as of 21st September 2015.
(c) Participants are required to make a successful online purchase with Zalora during the Campaign Period and enter their BIG Shot ID at Zalora’s order confirmation page ("Successful Order").
(d) Every Successful Order by Participants will be entitled for BIG Points award.
(e) Only Successful Orders at the following Zalora websites will be awarded the BIG Points award:
http://www.zalora.sg/airasiabig
f) Big Points will be awarded to the Participants based on the amount spent in a single order, excluding taxes and shipping costs
3. The BIG Points award will be credited to the winner’s BIG Shot account within forty five (45) days (or any other period as the Organizers deems necessary) of the Successful Order subject to the Organizers receiving all necessary information as deemed necessary.
4. For full terms and conditions, please click Air Asia Loyalty Programme.

17 November 2015

Nature’s Glory Dr. Bronner's Liquid Soap and Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Been diligently learning household chores and tips recently in hopes to maintain our new place properly in time to come! We're in midst of sourcing for ID/contractors who can understand what we want for a house, and importantly, be genuine and committed. Recommendations are welcome! :)

Was really glad to be invited to try Nature's Glory Dr Bronner's Castile Organic Liquid Soap which has 18 uses to it!

*Certified to USDA Organic Standards
(same strict standards used for Organic Foods)
1. Shave
2. Shampoo
3. Toothpaste
4. Soap Bath or Foot Bath
5. Deodorant
6. Denture Cleaner
7. Mouth Wash
8. Hands Cleanser
9. Body Massage
10. Laundry
11. Douche
12. Hot Towel Massage
13. Pets
14. Dishwashing
15. Toilet Wash
16. Fruits/Vegetables Wash
17. Pest Spray
18. No Rash Nappy Soap


For five generations, over 150 years, the Bronner family is known for their soapmaking excellence. Nothing brings the warmth and coziness of home and hearth into your shower like Dr. Bronner's range of heavenly-scented Castile Organic Liquid Soap. They are certified organic under the USDA National Organic Program, as well as certified Fair Trade. Packaged in 100% postconsumer recycled (PCR) plastic bottles, these soaps are renowned for their quality, versatility and eco-friendliness.

The purity of the source of these soaps grants each droplet its exceptional qualities. They contain a relatively large volume of therapeutic high quality grade essential oil (i.e., 20ml in 1litre) which is really value for money, as typically even a bottle of 10ml essential oil would already cost $20 to $30+. Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap is retailing at a reasonably good price of $18.90 for a 16oz. The soaps greatly enhance its penetration deep into the skin to unleash reservoirs of goodness for long-lasting care and love for our skin.


To being with, Dr Bronner’s Pure-Castile Almond Liquid Soap is unlike any other soap you have ever used. It is made of a combination of high quality, pure & organic extra virgin coconut, olive, jojoba & almond oils. 


Personally, I really love the scent of the citrus version. Can totally imagine using it for many things!
Nothing smells as fresh as the smell of organic citrus oils. The organic orange, lemon, and lime oils in Dr Bronner’s Pure-Castile Citrus Orange Liquid Soap stimulate the skin and invigorate the body, resulting in a truly refreshing shower experience. 


Since I'm on-my-way to be a "housewife", I started off with trying it as a dishwasher instead, heh heh. As stated on its website, Dr.Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soaps are valued for money – up to 4 X more concentrated than other brands of “liquid soaps”. With such a lovely scent, I would definitely repurchase this for ashing my clothing in future, or simply a relaxing foot bath next!



***

Now, while I'm on Dr Bronner's, I found out about another amazing organic product - the Fresh Pressed Virgin Coconut oil!


Dr Bronner’s Whole Kernel Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is expeller-pressed from fresh, carefully dried coconut kernels whose brown inner skins have been left on, resulting in a more aromatic, nuttier-tasting oil. Versatile and delicious, Whole Kernel Coconut Oil can be used for stir-frying, sauces, baking and body care, including hair and body moisturising, oil pulling, DIY toothpaste formulations, and more.


I have not used it as hair or body care yet because it smells TOO YUMMY, lol. Might feel weird for me to use something so delicious smelling on my skin/hair.


Was hesitating between using it on food as a try-out, or on my face as a quick moisturizing mask.
Decided to add it to my "cooking" eventually when the little sister requested for a late night noodles supper! Secretly added the coconut oil to the noodles soup and it turned out very well indeed! The noodles were more fragrant that she could detect that extra aroma in her supper even though she didn't know of the existence of Dr Bronner’s Whole Kernel Organic Virgin Coconut Oil in the house then.
Operation successful!


Dr. Bronner’s products are available at Nature’s Glory retail store or e-shop at www.natures-glory.com.

There's FREE DELIVERY for purchases S$150 & above.

Retail Store:
315 Outram Road #01-09
Tan Boon Liat Building
Singapore 169074
Tel: 6227 1318
Email: customerservice@natures-glory.com

9 November 2015

V-Mina SG Feminine Hygiene Care - Feel the confidence!

As a lady, I know how important it is to keep our delicate regions clean and fresh, while maintaining it to be dry and healthy at an ideal pH level. It is not only for health-conscious individuals who appreciates a delicate care of their long-term well-being, it is also extremely beneficial to those who are prone to infections, and those who are have more active lifestyle, or those who need assistance to balance the state of the micro-flora level.



Here is a new brand-name that uses an advanced approach to total-balance feminine care – V-mina.
It promises to clean without irritation and improve the V-area to a healthy pH range of 3.8 to 4.2. On top on that, there is yoghurt extract to provide Lactobacilus Probiotics benefits to maintain good micro-flora balance and naturally eliminates bad micro-organisms.
There are no harsh surfactants, SLES, SLS or ALS in V-mina products. 

The benefits of V-Mina products are supported and proven by clinical tests done by independent research institution (read more about it here!)

V-Mina Cleansing Mousse



The mousse state makes the cleanser soft and gentle on the skin, while effective in maintaining the cleanliness of the V-area. As mentioned above for all V-Mina products, it improves good micro-flora balance and prevent growth of bad micro-organisms and improve the pH to an ideal range. This mousse is enriched with aloe vera that helps to soften and hydrate the V-area.

V-Mina Lightening Intimate Gel



The gel helps to improve the V-area to a fairer tone with scientifically proven natural extracts such as mulberry root, saxifrage grape and scutellaria root. And the same goes too for this, it maintains good micro-flora balance of the feminine region and prevent growth of bad micro-organisms and improve the pH to an ideal range.

V-Mina Cleansing Wipes



The feminine wipes come in convenient packs of 10s and are non-soap and non-irritant - suitable for daily usage or travels. It is also enriched with hyaluronic acid for the ‘youthfulness’ of the V-area.

V-Mina Deodorant Intimate Mist

Together with the wipes, this is bound to keep you fresh and clean even if you spend the entire day outdoor. The size of it is kept small and convenient for you to pop it into your bag for daily usage :)

V-Mina products are available on its website
Or, you may want to follow the facebook page for more frequent updates!