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I tried really hard but it just didn't work out. 
I feel a lot of things I have tried belong to ok, average level but sometimes I found products lying on the extremes of my scale. This time, it is not on the right side. Let me say it first at the start - this product is not something that I would use. 




Mario Badescu Facial Spray review

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater

What: Facial spray/toner
Suitable for: All skin types
Scent: Rose
Size: 118 mL
Price: $12
Made in: USA
Where to get: Sephora
Instagram | Facebook



Ingredients:

Water, Propylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Rosa Canina Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Leaf Extract, Fucus Vesiculosus Extract, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Citronellol, Geraniol, CI 17200 (Red 33), CI 42090 (Blue 1).


Packaging

Mario Badescu Facial Spray review spray not good

Rosewater/toner spray sounds good, doesn't it? Yes, except the spray doesn't dispense so well. The liquid dispersed is large and chunky and the applicator is not the easiest to use. I get a shock every time I sprayed it on my face. The bottle feels like one that I transferred out from bigger bottles; not the most well-made. 

Mario Badescu Facial Spray review

I know I mentioned that I don't really mind 'cheap' packaging but I expected a little more from this brand.



Scent

Quite strong, and considering that this is a spray-on type, sometimes I feel I'm spraying perfume on my face. You will get a strong smell of roses.




Effects/Side effects

I have tried and stopped this for at least 3 times, each over 3 days before I decided to give up. Mario Badescu rosewater spray is bad (maybe it didn't suit me). I had breakouts in different areas after using it. I don't think I have sensitive skin so having a negative reaction is really the last straw. 

Other than that, I see no other changes. It wasn’t hydrating or moisturising like what it claims to do.





Overall

This product can be used at any time of the day or before and after makeup. However, the packaging is not small and compact such that you can bring it around with you easily.

Despite being a cult favorite, it does not work for me. The packaging is poor as I expected something a little more well done (at least for the spray). It is also quite heavily scented. The product does not work for me - it does nothing to hydrate. It is even more frustrating to deal with breakouts because they will leave scars and dark spots so I think I have given this rosewater spray enough chance. For something claimed to be calming, this sure is the opposite. This review is extremely short because there is nothing for me to write about. 


Pros:
- Can be used any time of the day, before and after makeup 

Cons:
- Poor packaging
- Heavily scented
- Breaks me out
- No to negligible effect



Packaging: 1/5
Scent: 1/5
Effect: 0/5
Value-for-money: 0/5



Rating: 1/5
Will not recommend or repurchase





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Thank you & bye! 
Sunprise! We are finally back with an Etude House product. Etude house sunprise mild airy finish suncreen is a 100% mineral-based sun protection; which means it is suitable for even sensitive skin. Let's get started on our review! 

etude house sunblock sunscreen review mild airy finish sunprise

Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sunscreen

What: Sunscreen
Scent: Strong floral, powdery
Colour: Transparent when blended
Finish: Nil
Size: 55 mL
Price: $8.50 
Where to buy: Ezbuy



Ingredients

Water/​Aqua/​Eau, Cyclopentasiloxane, Zinc Oxide (Nano), Alcohol, Dipropylene Glycol, Dicaprylyl Ether, Titanium Dioxide (Nano), PEG-10 Dimethicone, Vinyl Dimethicone/​Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Magnesium Sulfate, Methicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aluminum Hydroxide, Fragrance/​Parfum, Caprylyl Glycol, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Octyldodecanol, Stearic Acid, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/​Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil, Cellulose Gum, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Viscum Album (Mistletoe) Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Unsaponifiables, Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/​Leaf/​Vine Extract, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract, Tocopherol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Carex Humillis Root Extract, Malpighia Emarginata (Acerola) Fruit Extract, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract




etude house sunprise review sunblock information



Packaging

etude house sunprise review sunscreen packaging

Love the pastel colors and cute details on the packaging. The cap turns and 'locks' in place so you don't have to worry about spillage. With 55 mL in size, you can probably use this for a long time. There is a ball inside to mix the formulation as well. Remember to shake before use as we had an incident of the formulation separating when we don't shake.



Scent

Very strong floral, powder, plastic scent. I usually don't mind the scent but this is so strong it will start to smell 'plastic. It is really strong to me. You can't smell it as much when applied on your face, thank goodness. 



Consistency

etude house sunprise swatch review sunblock test

Quite flowy, blends and absorbs into the skin well. 



On skin (Finish)

etude house sunprise swatch review sunblock test

etude house sunprise swatch review sunblock test


Once fully absorbed, you don't see or feel anything. It does not interfere with my makeup or contributes to additional sebum production. That's great because some sunscreens can be really scary. 



Sun protection

I cannot comment much on this (don't really want to test the effectiveness experimentally too lol). I trust that SPF 50+ and PA +++ is effective as claimed. 
As this is a 100% mineral-based sunblock, it is suitable for even sensitive skin. I have no problem using this.



Ingredient list

Quite a long list of ingredients, including preservatives, silicones, and fragrances. Take note if you are particular. 



Overall

Etude House Sunprise sunblock is a fuss-free everyday sunscreen for me. Remember to shake before use to ensure the formulation does not separate. I have no issue with its sun protection ability and finish. Its consistency is not the most lightweight but it is still easy to blend. I don't usually mind the scent but this is a little heavy. 

This is a 100% mineral-based sunscreen; thus, making it suitable for even sensitive skin folks. You can apply it to both your face and body.

Another thing to note is I cannot find any information on this product on the official webpage (Has this been discontinued?). Purchased it off Ezbuy and saw this selling on a lot of online platforms as well. 



Pros:
- Affordable
- 100% mineral-based, suitable for sensitive skin
- Large capacity
- Good finish with no white/oily cast
- Does not make my face more oily
- Decent texture and consistency
- Blends well


Cons:
- Scented heavily




Rating: 3.5/5
Don't mind repurchasing and using it again





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As titled. I've come across many profiles talking about monthly laser treatments and most of them had very good feedback after incorporating lasers into their routine. I didn't have the chance to speak to a professional so I just left it as so; until I made my visit to IDS. 
I have also tried out some of their products and services. You can search for IDS in the search bar to find the relevant posts. 

Today, I will focus to talk about lasers, particularly carbon lasers because this was the one I did. 


IDS review carbon laser before after




What can lasers do? 

It can lighten pigmentations and dark spots, acne scarrings, stimulates new cell growth and helps with skin lifting. Lasers are no longer something invasive - in fact, there are procedures you can do for an instant perk-me-up. The effect is immediate with no downtime. 



So many different lasers but which one is good for me?

I don't know too. Because it depends on your current skin condition and what you want to achieve. You can simply let the doctor know your concerns and she will advise you accordingly. I am seeing Dr Michelle, you can ask for her too.



Carbon Laser, what is it?

It helps to minimise and clear clogged pores, lighten pigmentation and tighten skin. Sound like a savior especially now because wearing a mask really made my ski more congested than usual. 😒



Procedure 

Step 1: Consultation and suggestion
After the registration, you will be ushered to see Dr. Michelle for a consultation. Base on your skin condition and what you intend to achieve, Doctor will advise you on the suitable procedure. 

My skin is congested and there are old scarrings from the past so she suggested I go for carbon laser. 


Step 2: Numbing cream (optional)
After the consultation, I went into another room to apply a layer of numbing cream. I am glad I was given this option because this was my first time and I have no idea how lasers are like. After the numbing cream is applied, I just had to wait for the effects to kick in before the next step. 



Step 3: Application of carbon substance
                                                                                                                           IDS review carbon laser before after apply

Avoiding areas around my eyes and eyebrows. 


Step 3: Laser it all away

IDS review carbon laser before after


We are almost done here. I took less than hour because I had to wait for the numbing cream effect to kick in. The actual process is 5 minutes or less?



Is it painful

No, is there any discomfort? No. 



Downtime

No downtime at all. I am pleasantly surprised as I thought laser treatments are often invasive. 
In fact, my skin immediately feels and looks better, see below.



Results

Here's a quick before-after. At least I remember to take it before the procedure and right after. Always slipped my mind to do it nowadays. 

IDS review carbon laser before after
Both without make-up.
Can you see how much the scars have lightened especially around my chin? And the redness around my nose is gone? And how much more hydrated" 



Frequency

Speak to Dr. Michelle, she can advise you on this better. I was advised to do monthly maintenance for best results. 



Cost

I cannot exactly remember how much it was per session but they have a very good package deal (which works out to be in the range of 200ish per session) for any kind of laser treatments. I like how their arrangement works - your skin changes so why should you be tied to one type of treatment plan? 
IDS meant it when they said they customise skincare for you. 



Overall

Sessions are fast and results are impressive. Thank goodness I've dropped by for a quick visit before the Heighten Alerts kicked in. My skin has been alright looking fresh and food so far. 



Pros:
- Cleans and tightens pores, lighten scars and pigmentation
- Non-invasive
- No downtime
- Painless and fast procedure
- Instant observable results
- Good service and clean environment
- Reasonable priced
- Different package arrangement for different needs 



Cons:
- I can't think of any




IDS Clinic 

360 Orchard Rd
#02-02 International Building
Singapore 238869
Tel: 6450 3555

Mon - Fri: 10 am - 8 pm 
Sat: 10 am - 5 pm
Sun: Closed
Website | Facebook | Instagram


Rating: 10/10
Recommend to give IDS lasers a try if you haven't 








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*JJOYIS was invited to IDS to experience and review this procedure but the views and opinions are solely our own. 
Previously on JJOYIS, we have posted about Boots Cucumber moisturizer and it performed better than expected (7/10). As such, we started using Boots cucumber skin freshener (toner) with high hopes. Did it perform up to standards? Let's find out! 


boots skin freshener cucumber review

Boots Cucumber Skin Freshener

What: Toner/freshener
Suitable for: oily skin
Scent: Alcohol 
Size: 150mL
Price: <$10
Where to get: Boots Phuket (Thailand)


Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Alcohol denat., Glycerin, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium methylparaben, Sodium citrate, Citric acid, Tocopheryl acetate, Propylene glycol, Benzophenone-4, Tetrasodium EDTA, Dipropylene glycol, Retinyl palmitate, Parfum (Fragrance), Hexyl cinnamal, Sorbitol, Hydroxycitronellal, Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) fruit extract, Denatonium benzoate, Tocopherol, Benzoic acid, CI 19140 (Yellow 5), CI 42090 (Blue 1)



Packaging

Comes in the same translucent green plastic bottle and a snap cap. 

information on boots skin freshener


I am totally fine with budget packaging as long as they don't break or dispense products poorly. 

boots skin freshener cucumber review packaging



Scent

Very strong alcohol smell, I can smell it every time I pour the freshener out. 



Consistency/texture

Flowy and liquidy. 

boots cucumber skin freshener consistency


Does not feel or look like anything. It is absorbed quickly and does not leave a residue.



Ingredient list

Alcohol is present in the product and is second on the list. It is higher than most of my other skincare products. Be warned not to use it near your eyes. Once, I have accidentally used it around my eyes and it made my eyes water. It can sting, so luckily it didn't get in my eyes that time (I cannot imagine if it did). 



On skin

I use this with a cotton pad to remove bits of makeup, oil or dirt. It is not as drying as I've expected. Other than the cleansing effect, I don't observe any significant changes. No before and after photos because I can't tell a difference. It's not oily or sticky after application.



Overall

This is a very very average toner - cleans and tones your skin. It does not cause any problems when I used it but I didn't notice significant improvements as well. The scent is off-putting and it can sting your eyes. This is why I don't like it and will not repurchase or recommend it.






Pros:
- Light consistency
- Absorbs/evaporates easily


Cons:
- Strong alcohol scent
- Stings eyes 
- May not suit sensitive skin folks





Packaging: 2.5/5
Scent: 1/5
Consistency: 4/5
Cleansing power: 4/5
Ingredients: 3/5
Value-for-money: 2/5 (cheap but not something I want to use) 



Rating: 2/5
An average product. Will not repurchase or recommend



Unlike Boots Cucumber moisturizer which turned out better than what we have expected, Boots Cucumber toner did not fare as well as that. We do still have other products from the Boots cucumber series to test out. Stay tune to see what we think of the others!





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Thank you & bye! 

 It has been 1 year since no leisure travel is allowed and we are getting bored in Singapore. Thus, we decided to play tourist in our own country and booked a staycation using Singapore Rediscover Vouchers (thanks govt!). 



fort canning hotel deluxe room review

Fort Canning Park Hotel (Deluxe Room)

Room Size: 30 - 35 Sqm
Breakfast: Breakfast included
Stay Period: Feb 2021, CNY Period
Hotel Facilities: Gym, dining, pool
Nearby: Fort Canning Park, Plaza Sing, The Cathay (malls)
Closest Train Station: Dhoby Ghaut Station
Check-in/Check-out time: 3 pm/ 12 pm
Price: $280/night
Star: 5 🌟
Website
11 Canning Walk, Singapore 178881



Types of rooms available

rooms available in fort canning hotel

4 different rooms for you to choose from and all of them comes with a bathtub. The layouts are different so check out their floor plan on the website if you're keen to understand more. 

On top of that, there are 2 different suites too.

suites available in fort canning hotel

I like their renovation. 



Amenities

fort canning hotel gym

Gym, pool and dining options. 
Didn't visit the pool during our stay. You need to book a slot before making your way to the gym/pool. 
I believe these facilities are enjoyed by both hotel guests and club members. There are some massage chairs outside the gym but we didn't try them. The gym is very large and well-equipped.



Location

fort canning hotel location

It is located on Fort Canning Hill yet it is still a stone's throw away from the malls (The Cathay, Plaza Sing). I like how conveniently located Fort Canning Hotel is but it is far enough for you to enjoy the peace and quiet. 



Deluxe Room (Staycation Review)

The building is only 2 or 3 storeys tall I believe. Our room is located on the second floor, corner unit. 


It comes with a good king size bed, 4 pillows and 2 small deco pillows. The bed is comfortable. 


On the side, there is a full side wardrobe. 

safe ironing board iron fort canning hotel deluxe room review

Inside, you can find things like a safe, ironing board and iron, torchlight and disposable hotel slippers. 


hotel slippers shoe polish fort canning hotel

They also provide shoe polish - this is not common in most hotels.

There are ample power points around the room and you can find USB ports too. 
The TV is wall mounted with channels such as FOX movies. At least there are decent channels available but I really hope hotels can consider changing to smart TVs. It will be much nicer if we can screen our own shows/movies/Netflix you know. 


coffee machine fort canning hotel

The room also comes with a coffee machine and tea from TWG. 


digital switch fort canning hotel

Controls of the room are digitalised - the lights, air-conditioning and blinds can be adjusted using this system. I love digital switch panels because I don't have to walk around to figure out which switch to off at night. 


The air-conditioning in our room wasn't strong despite reducing the temperature to the lowest. Took a long time for the room to cool down (And by long I mean around 2 - 3 am?)


There is an alarm clock at the side too. 

alarm digital fort canning hotel

Can use it to charge your phone and sync your music.



As we stayed during the COVID and CNY period, the hotel was thoughtful enough to prepare small gifts for their guests.

care pack fort canning hotel

We had care packs containing a mask, hand sanitiser and disposable wet wipes. This is so helpful because I am still not used to packing an additional mask in my bag.


cny pack fort canning hotel

CNY goodie bag had mandarin oranges and ang bao. 



The bathroom is probably the main highlight of the room. 

open concept toilet fort canning hotel

I especially love how much natural light you get when you pull the blinds up. There's a small standing mirror (double-sided), weighing scale, toiletries and waste bin.


rain shower hotel fort canning

On one end of the bathroom, you have a rain shower and a toilet bowl.


Hotel Fort Canning combines aesthetics with functionality. 

marble tiles toilet fort canning hotel

Marble-looking (or maybe marble tiles) can be really slippery when they are wet. Hence, there's an additional layer of tiles with a smaller cut to increase friction. 


On the other end, you have a standalone bathtub. 

standing bathtub hotel fort canning singaporestanding bathtub hotel fort canning singapore

I prefer stand-alone bathtubs any day. My number one pet peeve is to have a combined shower/bathtub area. 



toiletries

toiletries

Toiletries as shown. 



Breakfast wasn't great considering the standards of the hotel and room. Hope they can look into improving food standards one day!



Something puzzled us a lot - we were given 1 exit pass (1-time use) hence we paid for parking when we had to drive out for dinner. Wanted to save it for the overnight car park fees but in the end, it was complimentary. We didn't even need to use the exit pass lol. I guess this can be more clearly communicated to the guests in the future.





singapore staycation review hotel fort canning

Before we left, we took some time to walk around Hotel Fort Canning. I am impressed at how they managed to preserve the heritage of this place while making it comfortable for guests.
This is truly an oasis in the city. You're far in nature yet close enough to civilisation. 
I truly enjoyed my time in HFC and hope to be back one day.




Comfort: 4.5/5
Cleanliness: 5/5
Value for money: 4.5/5
Design of room/hotel premise: 4.5/5
Room Facilities: 4.5/5
Hotel Facilities: 3/5
Service: 4/5
Breakfast: 3/5
Location: 4/5
Safety: 5/5
Suitable for: Couples, families, business trips, staycations





Things worth mentioning:
- Location is convenient
- Clean and comfortable
- Standalone bathtub and shower
- 5 stars standard hotel 




Rating: 9/10
Will revisit again




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