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Sponsored Review The answer is a resounding yes… with a huge BUT! But what you ask? Enzymes are great for exfoliation and anti-inflammation. They destroy the keratin protein on the upper layers of the skin to reveal smoother skin and also act as filters against damaging sun rays, environmental pollutants and even acne. However, they are very picky about their environment and only function optimally at certain temperatures and pH. 🙁 But guess what? It’s not the end of the world yet because Dr Bragi has come up with a unique marine enzyme technology that overturns the ‘traditional enzyme theory’. Well, the doctor knows best. Click to learn more about this revolutionary technology and its products. So early last week, I was sent these Dr Bragi product samples. Dr Bragi Bio Marine Exfoliant Dr Bragi Age Management Moisturiser Dr Bragi Intensive Treatment Mask Honestly, I didn’t think Dr Bragi was anything special since there are many products out there that are formulated by doctors. But when I read the brochures that came with them, I was truly intrigued with the state-of-the-art technology behind it. The brand was founded by the late Dr. Jón Bragi Bjarnason PhD who was a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Iceland and one of the World’s leading enzymologists. The diverse marine life of Iceland’s abundant sea waters inspired Dr Bragi to scientifically explore marine enzymes. He dedicated his life to the study and therapeutic application of marine enzymes, achieving numerous awards, as well as global patents for his discoveries. Clinical evidence of their effectiveness compelled Dr Bragi to develop a unique line of skincare based on this advanced marine enzyme technology. Fusing marine biochemistry with pure, natural and effective ingredients, Dr Bragi’s formulations are driven by clinical studies, visible results and backed up by decades of scientific research. Dr Bragi’s marine enzyme products optimise cell function, keeping the skin as young and healthy as possible. This enhances the skin’s natural rejuvenating mechanisms so effectively there is little need for other products. Dr Bragi delivers the most innovative, effective and safest formulas on the market. Most skin care products contain a vast number of unnecessary ingredients that look, feel and smell great but in reality offer no benefits whatsoever and can in fact cause more harm than good. Dr Bragi formulations however, belong to an entirely different league of products, as they contain absolutely none of the following: NO artificial preservatives NO parabens NO perfumes NO silicones NO glycols NO dyes NO lipids NO lanolin The Dr Bragi approach to skincare… In scientific terms, the word activity is defined as ‘having a biological effect on something’. Many products boast about ‘activity’ and transforming the skin but few are supported by empirical clinical data. Enzymes are essential protein molecules that dramatically speed up cellular processes in all living beings and the same goes for marine enzymes – Dr Bragi products possess a genuine enzymatic ‘activity’ and visibly promote a beneficial change in your skin to help it look younger and healthier. Dr Bragi’s patented marine enzymes are like no other cosmetic ingredient available. Unlike other enzymes used in skincare, marine enzymes are adapted to function in the depths of the ocean with temperatures reaching as low as -2°C. When subjected to body temperature, they become ‘super-active’ and more powerful than other enzymes. These are the full sized products of the samples. I’ve included their photo, description and price information. Scroll down for their info and my thoughts about them. Dr Bragi Bio Marine Exfoliant A superior facial exfoliant packed with fossilised diatom algae and Witch Hazel to cleanse, brighten and renew. This simple home treatment acts in a similar way to microdermabrasion by targetting stubborn, congested areas of dead surface skin cells and excess oil (sebum), stimulating cellular renewal, whilst clearing and minimising pores. These minute particles gently exfoliate the epidermis making the skin more receptive to treatments and enhancing the performance of your Dr Bragi marine enzyme moisturiser. Silica-rich fossilised algae replaces vital minerals to help support the skin’s collagen production. Lime derived AHA gently exfoliates the epidermis, whilst polysaccharides help to tone and lift. With regular use, this treatment helps to eliminate blackheads, fine lines and uneven and lacklustre skin tone to promote a glowing and blemish-free complexion. With 98% natural ingredients this product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. How to use: Dispense a small amount onto the fingertips and massage gently onto dry skin, paying special attention to areas with excess oil build-up such as the forehead, nose and chin. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Follow with a Dr Bragi moisturiser to help balance the skin’s natural oil production and protect from bacteria. Avoid eye contact. For sensitive skin, apply to damp skin. Ingredients: Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Solum Diatomeae (Diatomaceous Earth), Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Maris Aqua (Sea Water), Sclerotium Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citrus Aurantifolia Oil (Lime Oil), Aqua (Water), Limonene*. *From natural essential oils Price: $69.90 (50ml) Afterthoughts… Exfoliating your face should never feel like a tractor running over your skin. A good scrub is one that effectively sloughs off nasty dead skin cells without scratching or irritating your skin. My skin is in a better condition these days – less clogged pores and zits. And I really want it to stay that way. The last thing I need is a harsh exfoliator with jagged edges that cut the skin. The Dr Bragi Bio Marine Exfoliant contains beads that are so tiny that can’t be seen but can be felt. The first time I used the product, I applied it on my dry skin and started rubbing it as suggested by the packaging instructions. But the friction generated on my dry skin was too much for me to bear so I applied some water on my face before I continue rubbing it. The final result was squeaky clean skin that looks radiant and happy. Photos of its texture: All in all, I think it fulfils my requirements of a good scrub – non-abrasive, effective and free of harmful additives. 3.5 Honeyz crowns! Dr Bragi Age Management Moisturiser Dr Bragi’s patented formula combines his unique, ‘super active’ marine enzymes with the added hydrating and plumping abilities of hyaluronic acid. This versatile facial moisturiser helps to reduce the signs of ageing by fighting the effects of environmental stress, preventing the breakdown of collagen and supporting optimal cell function. With the aid of calming sorbitol and glycerin, this exceptional oil-free moisturiser instantly nourishes the skin, whilst marine enzymes continuously smooth, exfoliate and cleanse from deep within the skin. Enzyme activity can help to dramatically rejuvenate, refine and brighten the complexion, eliminate dark circles and ease the symptoms of problematic skin conditions. How to use: Less is more! Apply sparingly to cleansed skin using a gentle massaging motion. A pea-sized amount is sufficient for the entire face and neck area and will continuously moisturise throughout the day. Use once in the morning and again before bed. Allow 15 minutes prior to applying an SPF or make-up. Safe to use around the eye contour. Do not use in conjunction with oil or lipid based products. If your skin feels sticky, you have used too much! Ingredients: Glycerin, Water (Aqua purificata), Sorbitol, Urea, Alcohol Denat., Carbomer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Chloride, Tromethamine, Trypsin, Chymotrypsin. Price: $268.90 (60ml) Afterthoughts… Glycerin, Sorbitol and Sodium Hyaluronate for hydrating purposes and Alcohol Denat for removing excess oil – just what the doctor ordered. 😛 Combination skin is complicated – it is dry underneath and oily on the surface. And you can’t use products for dry skin or oily skin as they can cause you to break out or dry out which are both bad beauty repercussions. So always look out for products that contain moisturising ingredients that addresses acne or excessive oily skin problems. I’ve been using this product for five days and I’m happy that it hasn’t added any new zits to my face. Initially, I was actually pretty afraid that it will do so due to its slightly greasy nature. The texture reminds me of Bio-Essence’s Radiant Youth Essence which feels oily at first touch but quickly melts into the skin, infusing it with intense moisture. The moisturiser produces a warm and soothing sensation when you massage it over the skin. After application, my skin feels soft, revitalized and flexible – no tight feeling. 4 Honeyz crowns! Dr Bragi Intensive Treatment Mask Professional strength marine enzyme mask, as recommended by celebrity make-up artists. This innovative mask is designed to rapidly target redness, dehydration, loss of firmness and signs of premature ageing. Experience a Dr Bragi treatment from home with this fabric mask, delivering the highest concentration of patented marine enzymes, ensuring outstanding results in an instant. The skin appears plumper, smoother and brighter – ideal for a pre-party rejuvenating boost. Particularly recommended for stressed, fragile or sensitised skin types. How to use: Use once or twice a week on cleansed skin. Open out the mask and, using your fingertips, place the mask onto the eye contour, carefully smoothing it down to fit the rest of the face. Relax for 10-15 minutes, then remove. Wipe any excess with a tissue. Use before bedtime for optimal results. Ingredients: Water (Aqua purificata), Glycerin, Alcohol, Calcium Chloride, Tromethamine, Sodium Acetate, Trypsin, Chymotrypsin. Price: $21.90 (15ml) Afterthoughts… When I removed the mask from its packaging, I was slightly taken aback by its greasy texture that is similar to the Age Management Moisturiser. Don’t think you ever touched an oily mask sheet eh? Also, most masks feel cold and wet but this one felt slightly warm and oily. The most amazing thing was when I rinsed the essence off my hands, the greasiness disappeared without a trace. I was pretty confused with its consistency – it was greasy, mild yet soothing. The mask was also not dripping wet like most sheet masks. Here are some photos: This was my face before application. Then put it on for 20 minutes and relaxed… Minion Dave came to join me! Haha! I thought the mask was slightly oversized but surprisingly it still fit snugly on my face after 20 mins as seen below. Don’t underestimate the power of this ill-fitting mask because after the 20 minutes, my skin felt more supple like it had absorbed all the nutrients in the mask! Tadah! Velvety smooth skin! I’m getting married next year so good skin is definitely on my priority list now. I need a good range of products that hydrates deeply and erases visible creases effectively. So I’m eager to try the products for a longer period of time to see more obvious results. Meanwhile, 4.5 Honeyz crowns for its hydrating qualities and natural ingredients. Dr Bragi is available at all Origo Creation retail outlets: International Plaza 10 Anson Road, International Plaza, #02-87, Singapore 079903. Orchard Central 181 Orchard Road, Orchard Central, #01-17, Singapore 238896. Chinatown Point 133 New Bridge Road, Chinatown Point, #01-37, Singapore 059413 The Adelphi 1 Coleman Street #04-50 Singapore 179803 Exclusive for Honeyz Belles! Quote ‘Honeyz Reader‘ for 15% off* regular-priced Dr Bragi items at all Origo Creation retail outlets! *Offer is valid till 31 October 2013. Have you tried Dr Bragi products too? Let me know by sharing your review at Honeyz Cube ! Also, stay abreast of the latest beauty news and product launches with our Honeyz Cube Facebook Page ! Your friend, Juliana Disclaimer: Please be rest assured that even though the products and services were sponsored, they do not have any bearing on the content of this post. Opinions stated are objective and genuine. Also note that all sources, information, content, links are valid to change at any time #beauty #beautyreview #DrBragi

Sponsored Review Affirmative. Don’t worry. You don’t have to buy a coupon deal, cross the borders or even break your back for it. This one-in-a-million sanctuary is strategically located in the heart of the heartland, easily accessible by any public transportation options. So click for your economical luxurious retreat! Oxymoron but you know what I mean! 😛 Our little hideaway spotted! Secret Wellness Hougang dwellers rejoice! Secret Wellness is located at Blk 683 Hougang Avenue 8, #01-895 Hougang Singapore 530683. Here are some of the services rendered by the parlor: You can also view their full menu here . I’ve been wearing heels everyday for the past few days so I requested for a 60-minute foot reflexology program and full-body massage to calm my aching tootsies and back. Before conducting the foot massage, Wisz, owner of Secret Wellness, recommended a ginger herbal soak to boost blood circulation for detoxing and to reduce swelling of the feet. I thought that was pretty interesting. I knew ginger eases digestion and an upset stomach but never knew it can be used externally for detoxification too. Anyway, here comes the foot soak! Caution – hot! I made a huge mistake of not letting Wisz know about my low heat threshold and almost ended up scalding my feet! Eeeep! Wisz quickly gave my feet a cold shower by pouring chilled water over them. My therapist of the day, Faz, also smoothed some vaseline over the area to soothe it. With all that pampering, the redness reduced pretty quickly and I could enjoy the goodness of the herbal foot soak again. After 10 minutes of soaking my worn out feet, they felt refreshed and imbued with life. Haha! Artistic capture of my energized feet! I was served a warm cup of tea during the foot soak. Tea + Foot Soak = A match made in heaven. Faz proceeded to the next item on the list – foot reflexology therapy. She explained that the treatment seeks to also improve metabolism, strengthen the immune system and cure stiffness of muscles. Well, Faz has six years of experience in foot reflexology so I trust her wholeheartedly and let her do her thing. She wrapped each foot with a towel and gave them a few strong rubs before she unwrapped them again to apply direct pressure to my reflex channels. I guess you belles know by now that foot reflexology is based on the principle that there are reflex points on the feet that correspond to the body’s organs and glands. For example, the toes represent the head and the ball of the foot represents the chest and lung region. You can see this chart for a better picture of the different zones. Images credits: http://www.enjoyrelaxingmoments.abmp.com/foot-reflexology I often suffer from symptoms of gastritis so it was no surprise that I felt uncomfortable when she touched the ‘stomach zones’. After a gruelling yet healthful massage, Faz removed the ointment that she’d applied during the massage with an antiseptic towel. I was surprised by this gesture as most therapists will just leave you greasy and irky. Haha! Well, she explained that these are the exact reasons why she removed it – for a clean and grease-free finish after a comforting massage. Then Faz went on to prepare the room for my 60-min Javanese massage. While she was doing that, I decided to explore the premises. And I was awed by their wall of achievements and positive reviews. 🙂 And the room is ready! The cozy massage room was reminiscent of a decadent Bali resort with lush silk bed sheets that resembled traditional indonesian fabric. They were tastefully paired with elegant satin curtains and romantic ambient lighting. And the massage? B-R-I-L-L-A-N-T. Faz stayed true to the principles of a traditional Javanese massage with long and firm massage strokes that are both relaxing and gratifying. So a soothing foot soak and an invigorating body and feet massage later, my energy was revived and I was all ready to conquer another 10 miles in heels! Haha! All in all, it was a great experience. You should have seen the way they fussed over preparing the rooms and accommodating my every need. I just loved how they made me feel like a VIP with their attentiveness and gentleness. Their pocket-friendly prices are certainly a bonus. 4 Honeyz crowns for Secret Wellness! Thank you Wisz and Faz! From left to right: Wisz, me and Faz. Saw these on my way out. Regular spa goers and students say YAY! Contact Secret Wellness at +65 6387 7729 or visit their website at www.streetdirectory.com/secret-wellness for their latest promotions. Address: 683 Hougang Avenue 8, #01-895 Hougang (S)530683 For more exclusive content on salon reviews, beauty tips, style books or to receive the full gamut of privileges as Honeyz readers, like my Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/ilovebunny.net Your road to a sparkling lifestyle begins here . Your friend, Juliana Disclaimer: Please be rest assured that even though the products and services were sponsored, they do not have any bearing on the content of this post. Opinions stated are objective and genuine. Also note that all sources, information, content, links are valid to change at any time. #beauty #beautyreview #SalonReview #SecretWellness

Sponsored Review Snack monsters are gonna rejoice at this next announcement – a snack-filled sampler bag has just descended from food heaven and its name – Greedy Chimp ! You bet this hungry little ape loves his grub and is dying to share his toothsome loot with you. Experience the euphoria with me as I unpack my very first Greedy Chimp bag in this latest episode of Dash of Honeyz! Here’s a rundown of all the snacks that were in my Greedy Chimp bag! Purence Dew Water What better way to protect yourself from the summer heat than to hydrate yourself with water as clear as morning dew? Purence Dew is free from inorganic minerals, heavy metals, and pesticides that are harmful to the body. Inorganic minerals can cause heart disease, arthritis, rheumatism, etc. Purence Dew helps our body to fight against cholesterol, atherosclerosis and constipation. Where to get it? Available at Fairprice Xtra, Fairprice Finest, Cold Storage, GroXers.com From S$1.95 – S$2.10 How much? From S$1.95 – S$2.10 Candies aplenty! iGen Sugar Free Mints Keep your breath minty fresh all throughout summer with these sugar-free mints. Choose from zesty strawberry or the freshest double mint. Where to get it? Available at Cheers, Fairprice Xpress. How much? S$2.20 per tin Morinaga Choco Balls Perfect sized for popping, these chocolate coated balls hide a little flavour surprise on the inside. Choose from peanut, caramel or strawberry filling. Where to get it? Available exclusively at Greedy Chimp. Email wantsnacks@greedychimp.com to place your order! How much? S$2.50 per box Jelfy Hello Kitty Gummy Candy These gummies come in juicy flavours that add a sweet, citrus punch to your snack inventory. Gum gum – yum yum! Where to get it? Available exclusively at Greedy Chimp. Email wantsnacks@greedychimp.com to place your order! How much? S$1.80 per packet Troo Freeze Dried Banana As emphasized in the video, this is a killer. And that’s not the end of its list of merits, each bag carries only 105 calories! That’s almost like eating a piece of white bread, except it’s tastier. 😛 Go bananas with this healthy and nutritious snack, freeze dried for your convenience. Bananas are quickly freeze-dried at temperatures below -40 degrees Celcius, which allows the nutrients to be preserved for long durations. This snack is made with real fruits, with no added preservatives and no allergy-triggering soybean, peanut, buckwheat and egg. Where to get it? Available exclusively at Greedy Chimp. Email wantsnacks@greedychimp.com to place your order! How much? S$6.50 for a pack Nongshim Champong Spicy Cuttlefish Premium Noodle Soup The little chimp is all out to tickle your tastebuds with this delicious MSG-free instant noodles. New on the market! Indulge in the robust flavor of these thick and chewy Champong Spicy Premium Noodles. Satisfy your blazing summer hunger pangs with this yummy quick fix! Where to get it? Available at all major supermarkets. How much? S$5.25 for a pack of 4. And if that wasn’t piquant enough for you, try this next snack instead! Kimmy Seasoned Seaweed My nose exploded almost immediately after I stuffed the seaweed into my mouth. The burning sensation lasted only a while though leaving a sweet aftertaste. Send the summer heat through your nose with this wasabi-seasoned pack of crunchy seaweed that is thinly sliced for easy enjoyment. Also available in Original. Where to get it? Available exclusively at Greedy Chimp. Email wantsnacks@greedychimp.com to place your order! How much? S$4.95 for a pack of 6. Also click on photo for a quick video demonstration on how you can enjoy the HotChocSpoon (found in my Greedy Chimp May bag) to the fullest! Subscribe to Greedy Chimp! This spanking bag of goodies is available at SGD14.90 every month or SGD44.70 every three months. Visit Greedy Chimp’s website at greedychimp.com/subscriptions/ to view all the subscription options and like their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/GreedyChimpSnacks for the latest Chimp activity! As mentioned in the video, Greedy Chimp will be available on Honeyz Cube soon so watch out for it! Meanwhile, stay up to date with the latest snack discoveries at http://greedychimp.com because the Chimp knows best. 😛 Your friend, Juliana Disclaimer: Please be rest assured that even though the products and services were sponsored, they do not have any bearing on the content of this post. Opinions stated are objective and genuine. Also note that all sources, information, content, links are valid to change at any time. #DashOfHoneyz #FoodReview #GreedyChimp

After my dreadful breakout earlier this year, I’ve ditched my heavy liquid foundations for mild formula bases like Color Control (CC) creams. But the rise of these groundbreaking skin saviors has also led to hundreds of new CC creams surfacing in the market every month and this has made the search for the best CC cream a notch tougher. So far I’ve been pretty loyal to my Rachel K CC cream until recently when I was introduced to Korean beauty behemoth, LJH’s Cellabel M.C. Vital CC Cream which is surprisingly impressive. Therefore, I’ve decided to compare both CC creams in this post and show you which brought the most to the table. 🙂 The LJH Cellabel M.C. Vital CC Cream is a multi-purpose cream that acts as both a foundation and a sunblock. Its clever formulation not only treats blemishes but also covers them well by matching their color to your skin tone like a chameleon! On top of that, its rich source of vitamin C also helps to prevent skin troubles and improve skin condition. And we’re talking about 800 times more Vitamin C than apples. In summary… – Multi-purpose cream that combines vitamin C essence, makeup and sun care. – Corrects skin tone – Provides excellent coverage – Smooth touch without stickiness from natural plant ingredients – 7 Free (Paraben, mineral oil, tar color, ethanol, fragrance, animality, TEA free) – Non stimulation tested (Oriental Medicine Bio-industry Clinical Testing Centre) – SPF30 PA++ What I thought of it… Honestly, I didn’t like it at the first glance. The cream didn’t come in the usual shade of beige. Instead, it is slightly greyish white with a rather thick consistency that does not seem to comply with their product description – corrects skin tone. Well, I guess I was fooled by its color and high viscosity because upon spreading the cream, it seamlessly blended into my skin tone and reduced the imperfections. Even though the texture was thick and not buttery like most CC and BB creams, I was surprised that I could still spread it over the skin pretty easily. The result was silky smooth skin that was utterly hydrated. 🙂 I’ve applied it on one side of my face to show you the contrast. The pores and broken capillaries were adequately concealed and my pasty complexion was instantly brightened. No new zits after application too. I’ve since replaced my foundation with the LJH CC cream and have been using it on a daily basis. Here’s my face with LJH CC cream and some blush and lip gloss for a peachy glow. As mentioned earlier, I’ve been using Rachel K for the longest time so I decided to do a like for like comparison. Texture I juxtaposed both creams to compare their texture. From the photo above, it was evident that the texture of Rachel K was lighter and smoother since it looked like melting ice-cream. Both glided over the skin pretty smoothly and quickly but honestly, I think Rachel K is a winner in this category as it produces a weightless and airy feeling like you’re not wearing any makeup. Winner: Rachel K Coverage And now we compare the colour correction and coverage characteristics. I’ve applied both CC creams on my face as shown below. LJH CC Cream effectively neutralized the redness and dullness of the skin while Rachel K pretty much covered nothing. Needless to say… Winner: LJH Packaging I’m quite a klutz so I prefer the LJH’s pump dispenser to Rachel K’s twist cap as it allows me to regulate the amount of cream dispensed. Winner: LJH Ingredients Both are super charged with Vitamin C and hydrating glycerine. The gaping difference is that Rachel K contains Vitamin E that lightens scars and promotes skin repair while LJH contains Centella Asiatica that not only lightens scars and pigmentation, it also accelerates skin healing, erases fine lines, promotes collagen synthesis and prevents premature aging. So I guess the winner of this category is… Winner: LJH The overall winner? LJH Cellabel M.C. Vital CC Cream! All in all, I love its power-packed ingredients, illuminating pigments and hydrating properties. 4.5 Honeyz crowns! LJH Cellabel M.C. Vital CC Cream currently retails at SGD58 (U.P. SGD72) at the Cube Store ! Cube Store Specials! Buy 2 get 11 free! Purchase the LJH Cellabel M.C. Vital CC Cream (SGD72) and LJH Cellabel M.C. Sun Pact SPF50+ PA+++ (#23 Natural Beige) (SGD88) and receive 11 LJH products absolutely free! Here are the 11 complimentary LJH products for this promotion. Limited sets left. Visit Cube Store Specials to place your order! Don’t take my word for it. Try it for yourself! Redeem LJH CC cream and other LJH Cellabel samples at my beauty encyclopedia, Honeyz Cube’s Rewards Catalogue . Have you tried LJH products too? Let me know by sharing your review at Honeyz Cube ! Also, stay abreast of the latest beauty news and product launches with Honeyz Cube’s Facebook Page ! Your friend, Juliana Disclaimer: Do keep in mind that reviews are entirely subjective. It is normal to have differing views so please don’t hate me if I didn’t speak well of your favorite product. I definitely have no intentions of distorting the image of any brand. Well, to each his own (or in this case ‘her’ own), isn’t it? Peace! 😛 #LJH #beautyreview #beauty #RachelK #CCCream

Sponsored Review Last month, I took a short spa vacation amidst the bustle and hustle of Orchard Road. Despite the absence of balmy breezes, sunshine and relaxing sounds of ocean waves, I still found bliss in a luxurious whirlpool tub, spacious steam room and a slew of invigorating body massages. Forget the sun and sand. Melt the lingering stress and tension away with swoon-worthy services by Spa Infinity . Psst! I’m giving away free facials too! You wouldn’t believe it. The luxurious oasis I am talking about is located just behind this badly painted door… … and across this carpark at the basement of Far East Shopping Centre. Tadah! And here we are! Enter the premises and you’ll be immediately greeted by the warm smiles of the Spa Infinity staff. Spa Infinity is actually an affiliate of Spa Symphony (SS) which I reviewed earlier so I thought the spa exuded the same luxuriant essence as SS with its lush facilities and services. I was also glad to hear that the therapists at Spa Infinity are also certified and well-trained in providing spa services. Kelly of Spa Infinity assured me that their treatments use only high quality natural ingredients that are eco-certified and suitable for all skin types. Most products are made in France and awarded by the renowned International Beauty Institute. And now, to enjoy the Spa Infinity experience to the fullest, play this and take a quick pictorial tour with me! Comfy cushioned chairs in the lobby The spa gives off a natural rainforest aura with its relaxing ginger scents, soothing meditation music and generous pots of green plants that can be spotted at every corner. There are also comfortable massage beds that are hidden behind ‘bushes’ for quick stress relief. Spa Infinity adds a dash of the tropics to the already awesome experience with warm fruit teas that are served before the massage. I also explored the bathroom and was awed by the large jacuzzi, steam room and comprehensive range of toiletries provided in it. The walls and platforms were distinctively designed with shiny tiles and tiny pebbles to complement the resort design of the spa. The changing room was also aptly equipped with lockers, robes and hangers. My six-hour spa experience commenced with a beauty assessment with the Spa Infinity therapists where I addressed my skincare and body concerns. I was also asked to fill out these forms for their records. My heavy workload has made me fall victim to stress related symptoms like indigestion, headaches and back aches. So Angeline of Spa Infinity suggested that I use Life Source’s Essential Oils Body Elixir to treat the symptoms. Honestly, I’m not a huge fan of rubbing oil all over the body as they tend to clog pores and cause breakouts on my back. Angeline assured me that the oils are non-pore clogging as they are water soluble which allows the pores to ‘breathe’ even after applying multiple layers on the skin. The oils are mainly made up of high concentrations of Oleic Sunflower Oil, Rice Bran, Almond Oil and Vitamin E. These are some of the uses of the oils. Angeline has chosen ‘HEAL’ for my massage to target the stress-related pains and discomfort. And here we go! Warning! Gratuitous topless shot coming up next! LOL! My massage was executed by Zhou Hua, an experienced masseuse who’s served thousands of satisfied customers over her 9-year career. I get frequent migraines so Zhou Hua also rubbed my temples and the area above the arch of my brows to relax the muscles. She even taught me some basic massage techniques to prevent future headaches! How sweet. 🙂 After two and a half hours of friendly banter and therapeutic massages with Lifesource products, Zhou Hua treated me to a heavenly Green Tea Thermal Detox Mask that relieves body aches, aids digestion and circulation. Zhou Hua laid a loosely woven gauze sheet on my back and applied a warm layer of green tea mask on it. I’m a big matcha fanatic so the rich green tea aroma of the mask sent me to seventh heaven instantly. In case you’re wondering, the key ingredients of the mask are french seaweed mud and green tea. Long term usage helps reduce fat storage, boost metabolism and relieve aches and pains. It is best used to curb stress, back or shoulder aches and belly fat. If you’re looking to reduce cellulite and firm skin, you could also request to add organic products from Centella into your mask. The main ingredients in Centella products are Pure Spring Water and Centella Asiatica. There are a thousand great benefits of the Pure Spring Water. Some of them include improving blood circulation and skin cell regeneration, promoting collagen proliferation, accelerating skin healing and reducing formation of fine lines. Centella Asiatica, which originated in Asia and Madagascar, is used to lighten acne scars and pigmentation, accelerate skin healing, erase fine lines, promote collagen synthesis and prevent premature aging. Feeling refreshed after the salubrious session. Before I went on to my next treatment, I was invited to the Spa’s very own diner for a quick lunch. The diner offered some pretty cool culinary choices such as sandwiches, glutinous rice and ice-cream! And I chose this mouth-watering Tom Yam soup! Haha! It wasn’t on the menu but they offer daily specials and that day, the special item was my favorite Thai Tom Yam soup! After a hearty and fulfilling meal, I proceeded to my next treatment that was administered by the lovely Chloe. I was asked to choose a facial treatment for this session and I chose to experience the goodness of the Bian Stone Gua Sha facial again. You can read about my full review of the facial here . The Bian Stone Gua Sha facial is actually the brainchild of Albert who’s also the Training Manager of Spa Infinity. I met Albert during lunch and he explained the advantages of using the bian stone instead of machines for treatments. According to him, the stone has a warming effect which creates ultrasonic wave pulses to enable skincare products to penetrate deeper into the skin. Massaging the bian stone on the skin will promote circulation of oxygen-laden blood that in turn helps to clean the pores and dissolve toxins. This not only helps you achieve healthier complexion, it also slims and firms the face effectively. Since this is his baby, it’s no surprise that the man himself is a regular enjoyer of the Bian Stone Gua Sha facial. Albert is more than 50 years old and this is his face after years of Bian Stone treatment. :O Albert, Training Manager of Spa Infinity ‘Nuff said! Where’s my Bian stone? I need a thorough facial treatment now! I had CC cream on so Chloe removed it with a a mild herbal aroma conditioning plant make up remover that did not contain chemicals and colorant. She then measured the distance between my nose and jaw. It’s 4.6 inches before the treatment. After some cleansing, exfoliating, extracting and bian stone massaging, she measured my face again. The distance between the nose and jaw was shortened to 4.5 inches. Amazing! Does my face look sharper? 😛 What’s a facial treatment without a facial mask? Chloe applied the H2O mask which is power packed with antioxidants that help fight free radicals, slow down the effects of aging and encourage collagen production for healthy, glowing skin. Read more about it here . And I’m done! I’ve turned on the flash to give you a clearer view of my face. I thought it was glowing with radiance. What do you think? 😀 Thanks Chloe! Chloe and me. Do you suffer from headaches, joint, neck, back or any other musculoskeletal pain? These could be due to various factors such as muscle strain, injury, poor posture, etc. Well, to get a more accurate diagnosis, you could also visit Spa Infinity’s in-house Chiropractic Clinic that is managed by Dr. Alexandros Karaplis. According to Dr. Karaplis, the most common causes of headaches are dysfunction of the joints in the neck, stress, bad posture and visual strain. And after some examination, he deduced that my neck had a slight deviation to the right side which may in turn be the reason why I get headaches now and then. The deviation is a result of my bad sitting posture as a consequence of sitting in front of a laptop and typing everyday. Geez. Never knew blogging has occupational hazards too. To rectify this, he suggested using my less dominant hand (which is the left hand) to move my computer mouse. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining the natural forward curve of the lower back with ergonomically designed chairs or cushions that provide back support. Dr. Karaplis provided many useful tips that afternoon on correcting and restoring spinal instability and strengthening spinal muscles. If you would like to relieve your body pain and improve your posture without medication or surgery, you may want to consider Chiropractic. For further info, consult their FB page at https://www.facebook.com/InfinityChiropractic88 Dr. Karaplis did some chiropractic adjustments and recommended that I use the jacuzzi and steam bath to relax the stiff joints and muscles after the session. And so I did! 😀 Just when you think it can’t get any better. 😛 Afterthoughts… It is evident that I had a great time at Spa Infinity. Despite its lavish treatments and facilities, it’s not a frou frou establishment. The spa delivers top-notch service and effective wellness programs that are not only therapeutic but also surprisingly affordable – most facials at Spa Infinity cost SGD250 or less. Both therapists, Chloe and Zhou Hua also seemed pretty happy and contented with their jobs and constantly sang praises of their boss and the managment team of Spa Infinity. Well, happy employees make happy clients. I was smiling from ear to ear throughout the treatment. Trust me, you’ll love its positive atmosphere too. 4.5 Honeyz crowns! Spa Infinity is located at 545 Orchard Road #B1-22 Far East Shopping Centre, Singapore 238882. Contact them at +65 6738 0069 for appointments. Visit their website at www.spainfinity.com.sg for further info about their services and promotions. Exclusive for Honeyz Belles! Spa Infinity wants to treat two lucky belles to their Rejuvenating 60-min Organic Facial (worth SGD130)! The Rejuvenating Organic Facial uses miracle herb Centella Asiatica to aid skin renewal, smoothen skin’s texture, lighten acne scars and dark spots, encourage collagen production to erase fine lines and to prevent premature aging. And it includes a relaxing pressure point massage to promote better circulation for luminous, glowing skin. And guess what? The chosen winners will be entitled to two facial sessions each!!! All you have to do is like Honeyz’ Facebook Page and Spa Infinity’s Facebook Page. Then share this photo (see Honeyz’ Facebook Page ) and tag five of your friends in the comments box. Contest ends 28 August 2013, Wednesday 10pm. Good luck! Behold a beauty miracle with Spa Infinity! Your friend, Juliana Disclaimer: Please be rest assured that even though the products and services were sponsored, they do not have any bearing on the content of this post. Opinions stated are objective and genuine. Also note that all sources, information, content, links are valid to change at any time. #beautyreview #contest #beauty #SpaInfinity #SpaSymphony

Happy National Day everyone! Have a fantastic time ogling at the fireworks later! Your friend, Juliana #greetingcard #NationalDay2013

Heartiest greetings to all of you – Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri! Honeyz Cube extends our compliments to you with 100 free cubepoints! Enter ‘RAYA2013’ at http://honeyzcube.com/RedeemCode.aspx to celebrate this joyous and special occasion! *Promo code is valid till 14 August 2013. Your friend, Juliana #contest #beauty #FacebookGiveaway #HoneyzCube #HariRaya2013

Sponsored Review August is the month of flags, fireworks and… challenges! Yup. I bravely accepted The Body Shop’s 3-Day Clear Skin Challenge and this post documents the trials and tribulations of my beauty evolution. Wonder if I beat the challenge? Click to find out! The Body Shop calls them the Tea Tree Super Power Trio and these beauty warriors were sent to my abode for the 3-day clear skin challenge. Tea Tree Cool & Creamy Wash (SGD20.90) The new Tea Tree Cool and Creamy Wash is a deep-cleansing daily wash which leaves skin super-clean, fresh and velvety soft. For anyone concerned about blemishes, cleansing is the most important stage of a skincare regime, yet many of us find traditional face washes drying and demand something that is effective yet gentle on their skin. The Body Shop Tea Tree Cool and Creamy Wash is tough on blemish-causing bacteria and soft on skin. Working to intensely cleanse and purify, it instantly removes all impurities and excess oils, without over-drying. From the very first use, skin looks clearer and fresher and feels softer. Prevent further outbreaks with regular use. My verdict: As the name suggests, the texture is extremely creamy and soft. The menthol in the facial wash creates a cold sensation which leaves the skin visibly bright and refreshed after washing. It is mild on the skin and harsh on the acne-causing bacteria. My skin hardly feels tight or dry after washing and excess sebum and impurities were also successfully eradicated after the second use. 4 Honeyz crowns for adhering to its promises! Tea Tree Squeaky Clean Scrub (SGD24.90) The Tea Tree Squeaky Clean Scrub effortlessly removes accumulated dirt and impurities of the day. Suspended within The Body Shop’s vibrant cooling gel, specially selected exfoliants gently uproot impurities whilst caring bursting beads release their skin loving goodness. My verdict: I’ve always chosen my scrubs very carefully as harsh exfoliators may cause redness and wrinkles. Before I embarked on my ‘Squeaky Clean’ journey, I squirted a small blop as shown below to feel the composition of the gel and beads. I never liked scrubs that use rough and irregularly-shaped beads as they produce a gritty and abrasive feeling on the skin. Thankfully, the Tea Tree Squeaky Clean Scrub uses round and smooth granules that felt gentle yet effective. I was also glad that it does not contain glycol which may loosen the bonds of my lash extension glue . For its skin-polishing efficacy and minty fragrance, 3.5 Honeyz crowns! Tea Tree Oil (SGD18.90) The Tea Tree Oil can be used directly on the skin or during facial steaming. My verdict: Even though the product is in oil form, the skin did not feel greasy for long after application. The oil was absorbed almost immediately by the skin leaving only a chilly sensation by the menthol. The zesty blend of tea tree and lemon oils also emitted a soothing fragrance that stimulated the senses, producing a relaxing effect. My angry-looking zits also looked calmer after the first use. They cleared up by the third day. 🙂 4.5 Honeyz crowns for its affordability and effectiveness. Here are some photos of my progress over the three-day challenge… Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 I thought my skin looked happier and more radiant! More reasons why we should support The Body Shop’s Tea Tree range… The Body Shop encourages sustainable and organic farming practices by sourcing their tea tree oil from the Kenya Organic Oil Farmers Association in Mount Kenya National Park. This preserves the park’s natural biodiversity while producing Community Fair Trade organic tea tree oil for The Body Shop products. So fight acne woes with The Body Shop’s Tea Tree range too! For more info on their latest promos and products, visit their website at www.thebodyshop.com.sg or their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TheBodyShopSingapore . Have you tried the products from The Body Shop’s Tea Tree range too? Let me know by sharing your review at Honeyz Cube ! Have fun! ❤ Your friend, Juliana Disclaimer: Please be rest assured that even though the products and services were sponsored, they do not have any bearing on the content of this post. Opinions stated are objective and genuine. Also note that all sources, information, content, links are valid to change at any time. #beauty #beautyreview #TheBodyShop

Advertorial  We’ve all bought insurance for our homes, health, cars but have you heard? You can now acquire insurance for your ez-link card too! And wait for it… AT ABSOLUTELY NO COST! The perks are out of this world. Click to find out more about their latest ‘Activate!’ programme! If you’re registered with ‘Activate!’, there are 3 key functions of this programme that you can enjoy: [It’s a one-time, simple, registration which is absolutely free by the way!] • EZ-Manage • EZ-Protect • EZ-Deals Registered ‘Activate!’ ez-link card holders can check the transaction history of their cards for up to three months, block and recover funds should they lose their cards, and enjoy additional protection against unauthorised usage before the lost card is blocked! EZ-Manage Have you ever lost your ez-link card right after topping up the value? I’m sure it has happened to some of you! Yeap. This catastrophic scenario happened to me once. I was a student at that time so it was definitely upsetting for me since my modes of transport can only be accessed with the ez-link card. So I totally endorse the new EZ-Link ‘Activate!’ programme because by registering with it, I am now protected by EZ-Manage when I lose or misplace my ez-link cards. And they do this by blocking further usage when I report a lost card and allowing me to enjoy the refund of the remaining stored value in the lost card later. Amazing isn’t it? Also with EZ-Manage, I’m able to monitor my transit and retail transaction history up to three months*, either at the ‘Activate!’ website or via the EZ-Link mobile app! * ‘Activate!’ only applies to adult ez-link cards issued by EZ-Link and does not apply to concession cards issued by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). EZ-Protect  Should there be unauthorised usage of funds between the time the customer calls EZ-Link to block their card and before the card is successfully blocked (which can take up to 48 hours), EZ-Protect provides an additional safeguard of up to SGD10, on top of being able to block your EZ-link card and fund recovery. This means that consumers can safely store more value on their cards instead of having to top-up their cards frequently. In partnership with ACE Insurance, EZ-Protect has a robust system which requires verification of personal details and reinforces security in case someone else picks up the card and tries to make a fraudulent claim. My favorite feature is the transaction history where I can check the available funds in my card before I board the bus. No more multiple beeps for the whole world to know that I’ve insufficient funds on my card. Now I can prepare small change for bus tickets without ransacking my bag in a moving bus. Yay! Most deals come with a price, but not with ‘Activate!’ In the months of July and August 2013, all registered ‘Activate!’ ez-link cardholders stand a chance to have their retail transactions on their registered ez-link cards… WAIVED FOR THE MONTH! Woohoo! I love my ez-link. Muuaahhh!  Terms and conditions will apply, of course. Details, and Terms and Conditions can be found at http://www.ezlinkactivate.com.sg/ez-deals/promotions Hurry and register with Activate!, simply visit http://ezlinkactivate.com.sg/ . You can also register via the EZ-Link app available at the iTunes App store for Apple mobile device owners. Google Play Store for Android devices. Because there’s really nothing to lose and all to gain! Your friend, Juliana #advertorial #EZLink #travel

Business profile? Checked. Bank account? Checked. Best team in the world? Double checked! It seems like we’re just one step away from being a full-fledged business – we need a gorgeous and productive office space! A good office layout boosts your mood and enhances the thought process. So I’ve been scouring the web for great office space ideas for Honeyz Cube ‘s future office. Our signature colors are purple and pink which are great for fengshui according to this Fengshui color chart below. 😛 I’m no expert at interior design but I definitely know what I want in my future office – chic spaces clad in shades of purple and pink without being overbearing. Here are some great examples: The main office area My room perhaps? A soothing color like aqua is great too! But if rosy hues are badly needed, add some fluffy pink beanbags or a hot pink stool as shown in the photo. So what do you think? What are some of your favorite decoration ideas? Share with me by commenting below! Your friend, Juliana #officespace #Interiordesign #decor #Design #HoneyzCube #lifestyle