Review: Marie Veronique Organics Anti Aging Oil Plus

Marie Veronique Organics Anti Aging Oil Plus 30ml USD 80

As I have shared earlier, this week, I am going to do my reviews on Marie Veronique Organics skincare and kicking start the reviews is the Anti Aging Oil Plus. This brand may be unfamiliar to some of us in Malaysia because their products are only sold online and are not available at our current retail stores. The reason why they have chosen to sell direct to their customers via their on-line store is because they want to offer the very best products at the lowest possible prices. One of the things that attracted me to this line is that MVO products are hand crafted in a small lab in Berkeley, California.

The arrival of my Marie Veronique Organics Skincare

When my Marie Veronique Organics package arrived at my doorstep, you can't image the excitement that I felt. First, a sigh of relief and secondly, I can't wait to try these much raved products. A month before, I have decided to do a new haul in my skincare products and you may read the reasons why HERE. How do I came to know about Marie Veronique Organics (MVO) skincare products?

Review: Madara Delicate Cleansing Milk

Madara Delicate Cleansing Milk 200ml RM 88

I rarely use milk based cleansers because I don't really fancy the oil film that it usually leaves behind. However, I knew I have to get one because my new Marie Veronique Organics Moisturizing Face Screen contains 20% zinc oxide, that needs to be throughly washed off by double cleansing. I've heard a number of great reviews of Madara and decided to purchase this at an organic fair held last month. So how does this fare for me?

My question on Cleansing Oils

Recently, I purchased a bottle of cleansing oil because I have heard so much about Oil Cleansing Method ( OCM ) and since this method is relatively new to me, I have decided to post my question to Viva Woman, my favourite blogger. She posted my question on her blog and I would like to share with you her thoughts on my question. Read it HERE. I hope many will this helpful, just as much as it has helped me.

My Reads: Water, Wax and Oils in Skincare



This is the last continuation article of Part 1 and Part 2, taken from my favourite Marie Veronique Organics blog.

Water, Wax and Oils in Skin Care

Water and Wax

The recipe for most body lotions is a large amount of water and a small amount of oil held together with a plant or animal emulsifying wax. Waxes form an occlusive layer on the skin, which helps to hold moisture in. However, wax-heavy products can leave the skin with less natural oils to deal with trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), and people may find over time that their skin is even drier than it was prior to using the lotion or cream intended to cure “dry skin.”

Because ingredients are listed in descending order according to prominence it shouldn’t come as a surprise to see “water” listed as the first ingredient in most lotions. There is nothing wrong with this, but be aware that you are not getting much bang for your buck if a product contains mostly water.

Oils

Choosing oils that will benefit your skin is a fairly easy process, as there are any number to choose from. Some good choices that are commonly included in oil blends and lotions are: apricot kernel, high in Vitamin A, avocado, rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, and jojoba, high in oleic acid. Some commonly-used nut oils such as almond oil and walnut oil have relatively short shelf lives so are not the best choices, especially if they are the prominent or the only oil included in the mix.

Peanut oil and wheat germ oil are potentially allergenic and not easily tolerated by everyone. Make sure your oils are cold-pressed or expeller-pressed. Grapeseed oil, for example, is a wonderful oil with anti-aging benefits, but it almost always solvent-extracted. Look for the descriptor cold or expeller pressed in front of this oil in particular.

Mineral oil

Mineral oil, aka petrolatum, is a by-product of petroleum. It may seem to be working at first because it acts as an occlusive (ie, it holds in moisture) but in the long run it clogs pores and has a drying effect on the skin. In addition, it may be contaminated with aromatic hydrocarbons, which are carcinogenic.

Review: DIY Mask with Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion

Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion 170ml RM40.90

Selena Big Size Cottan Pads( 60mm x 80 mm ) 80pcs RM18.90

I am pretty sure many of us have heard of this much raved "one drop locks up an ocean"product and I won't go into the details of the said product. Instead, I am going to talk about the DIY mask that I use weekly with this product. Using the lotion as recommended didn't really perform well for me. Yes, I did feel the instant 'toink-toink' effect, but that's about it. It didn't really give me the long term moisturizing that my skin needed. I feel it's a bit of a waste to discard the whole bottle and I might as well use it for something else.

Review:Weleda Pomegranate Regenerating Body Oil

Weleda Pomegranate Regenerating Body Oil 100ml RM135

I have been using body lotions all my life and recently, I have decided to opt for more natural alternatives, minus the 'silicones', 'waxes' or 'perfumes', which are found mostly in commercial products. I done my research over the net came across brands like Pangea Organics, Intelligent Nutrients or Dr. Hauschka, which have good body oils. Though I would love to invest in their products, I feel that it is too expensive for me to at the moment, ( plus the shipping cost and all ). Moreover, their body oils( except for Dr. Hauschka ) are mostly therapeutic benefits and I am looking for one with antioxidant and restorative purposes. And with this, I discovered Weleda. They do have good reviews and among their offerings, the Pomegranate Regenerating Oil seems to fit what I was looking for. I was most happy that it is available in Malaysia and quickly make my way to purchase.

Weleda's Background

Weleda’s principles and philosophy stems from the teachings of Dr Rudolf Steiner in the 1920’s.  In collaboration with Dr Ita Wegmann and a team of dedicated scientists and doctors, his philosophy and principles were applied to medicines and bodycare resulting in a remarkable legacy of products that today has a dedicated and growing following worldwide. Today, Weleda remains true to these principles. Every Weleda product is the result of carefully developed formulations and processes which transform pure plant extracts, herbs and flowers into premium quality products. At every stage of production from cultivation to final product, only the highest standards are upheld. A portion of Weleda’s raw and base materials are grown in Weleda’s own biodynamic medicinal plant gardens.

Weleda products are free from synthetic fragrances, colour, preservatives, emulsifying agents and parabens. The fragrance consist exclusively of pure, natural aromatic plants oils. Weleda products are internationally recognised for their purity, reliability and effectiveness, We do not test our body care products on animals.

Product Description

Pomegranate Regenerating Body Oil is an indulgent body treatment that helps slow the aging process and renders your entire body smooth, firm and naturally beautiful.

Antioxidant-rich pomegranate seed oil helps promote skin renewal and improve the firmness of your skin while actively protecting it from skin-damaging free radicals. Organic macadamia nut and jojoba seed oils provide restorative moisture and essential nutrients, leaving your skin nurtured and protected against moisture loss. Regular use helps promote skin renewal- for skin that looks radiant and youthful as you feel.

Ingredients:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Panicum Miliaceum (Millet) Seed Extract, Fragrance (Parfum)*, Punica Granatum Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Petal Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables, Limonene*, Linalool*, Citronellol*, Geraniol*, Citral*, Eugenol*, Coumarin*, Farnesol*.

* from natural essential oils
** Ve-suitable for Vegans

My Experience

This is my first venture to use body oils instead of lotions. Though it sounds scary for some people,  it is actually not. It's been 3 1/2 weeks that I have been consistantly using this oil every night. Here are my weekly observations:

1st week- Seems that I have to use a lot for both my legs and arms as it absorbs quickly. My skin condition was very dry at that time. For the scent, it smells like 'Campari'( a cocktail drink ) to me. Citrus-y and woody at the same time. My hubby didn't like the smell one bit.

2nd week- Start to use massage method to massage the oil slowly to my skin. I incorporated my vitamin E oil to this routine as well. My skin condition did improve and became more hydrated.

3rd week- The oil seems to absorb to my skin more readily if used on damp skin and I don't need to use as much as before. My skin is definately hydrated and smooth! ( I have grown to love this oil and the smell too.) I do noticed that my skin start to have the healthy 'pinkish' tone and became more firm.

Overall

I give this a rating of 4 out of 5. At the beginning stage, I was unsure if I have made the right choice because my skin still feels dry in the first week. If you are used to lotions, you will see the 'smooth and supple' effects even at first use. Don't be fooled my friend as those are the works of various silicone ingredients in some lotion products.

As I give this body oil a little bit more time to do it's work, I do see a lot improvements in skin tone, hydration and firmness. My dry areas, especially at my elbow and ankle area, have significantly improved in hydration. At times, I may be too tired to finish off my night routine with this oil and just popped to bed. But when morning comes, my skin remained smooth and rather supple. I know this product has definately done it's job well for me and I do see myself repurchasing it once I am done with it.

* After 3 1/2 weeks of use, my bottle is still 3/4 full.

This item was purchased by me for my personal purposes. This review is based on my honest and personal experience with this product and is not influenced by any parties.

My Reads: Why Avoid Fragrances?

 

This is the continuation ariticle from My Reads, taken from my favourite Marie Veronique Organics blog:

Why Avoid Fragrances?

Most products, particularly body lotions, are loaded with fragrance, and most of the time it is synthetic fragrances, described on the label as either “fragrance” or “parfum”, or on occasion, both. It is best to avoid fragrances. Even if you are not concerned about potential neurotoxic or endocrine disruption effects, fragrances are also the number one cause of allergic dermatitis.

If you are plagued with skin rashes the first place to look would be your body care products’ label. Switching to a fragrance-free product may make a big difference. However, searching for a product that is truly fragrance-free can be problematic, since fragrances and trade secret formulas are exempt from the FDA requirement that all ingredients contained in a product be listed on the label.

A distinction also needs to made between “unscented” and “fragrance-free,” An unscented product may still contain a masking scent, so it is important to read labels carefully in order to avoid harmful chemicals found in synthetic fragrances.

Some companies use essential oils (volatile liquids extracted from plants that retain the smell and taste of the original plant) and/or hydrosols (the liquid obtained from the steam-distillation process used to extract the oil) to obtain a pleasant scent. Essential oils are not hazardous to health, some of them in fact have beneficial properties for skin.

However, essential oils are not for everybody. Some people are allergic to certain essential oils, with some of the most common allergens being chamomile, lemongrass and lavender. If you know you are allergic to a certain essential oil by all means avoid it. Citrus essential oils and bergamot can photo-sensitize skin and should be avoided.

One Balm that We Can't Live Without!

Po Sum On Healing Balm HK$15 ( RM 5.80 )

I am pretty sure that some of us do have some items that we absolutely bring with us wherever we go. Some would say it's their favourite lipstick while some others can't live without their hand moisturisers or their lip balms. As for me ( and my family members ), it will be this Po Sum On Healing Balm. This balm surpasses all other healing balms that are currently in the market. It is used for ( as indicated in the leafet ):

• Temporary relief of: Minor pains and aches of muscles or joints associated with simple bruise and sprain.
• Mild headache and dizziness due to motion sickness.
• Chest discomfort associated with bronchial cough.
• Mild abdominal pain and discomfort induced by chill.
• Itching associated with insect bites.

Ingredients: Botanicals of oleum menthae, mentholum, daemonorops draco, oleum cinnamoni, camelia oleifera. The balm also contains essences extracted from several herbs prepared by esoteric and proprietary process. This preparation contains no scheduled poison.

I would usually use this balm if I encounter problems stated above or I will to dab some on my joints to ward off insects. The eucalyptus scent of this balm is quite acute and it is great when I have blocked nose. A little sniff of the balm and my nose is cleared. It does offer great relief to my tired feet or neck as well. However, be cautioned that you do not use this balm on any broken areas of your skin because it will sting.  Other than that, I can only say praises about this balm is because : It really works! Unfortunately, it is not available here in Malaysia and can only be found in certain dispensaries in Hong Kong. I know Bonjour in Hong Kong do have, but you can get better prices from nearby dispensaries.We would usually buy 2-3 dozens of this balm whenever our family members are in Hong Kong. Call us crazy but it is really worth it! So the next time that you are in Hong Kong, believe me, this will be the best thing that you ever get from Hong Kong!

Review: Garden of Eden Scar Serum

It's been almost a month now of using this serum and I think it's about the right time to give my views on the performance of this product. Just a quick preview of this serum, it is said to be -100% Natural Plant Extracts, a concentrated natural vitamin E, which is rich in antioxidants and skin nutrients that protect the skin from free radical damage and effectively accelerate skin renewal and repair. ( Please click HERE to read my previous post. )

My Experience

Initially, I started to use this serum, both day and night. In the day, I would dab and gently rub it in on my scars and followed by a moisturizer. At night, I would use it entirely on both my legs and arms. After 2 weeks, I decide to exercise the same routine for day but use 2-3 drops of serum together with my new body oil for night. I did this because I want to maximise the serum and know the 15ml bottle will not last me for a month. Did I see any improvements? Well, I can't say that my legs are 100% scar free, but I do see the colour of my insect bite scars did minimise probably about 20%. The picture taken below is one of my scars:

Before( Pic taken 16 April )

After ( Pic taken 5 May )

I guess that I have to prolong the use of this serum to see more significant results on my scarring. However, I do see an increase of hydration level on my skin. I like to use this serum together with my new body oil, which is packed with loads of anti oxidants. So my body oil  and Vitamin E is a good combination to boost my skin. I also experimented this serum on my husband's keloids and in a week's time, he did commented that his keloids became smooth and the 'bump' subsided.

Overall

I give this product a rating of 3.5 over 5. I like that this serum helps in my hydration of my skin but need to continue this serum for a couple of months more to see improvements on my scarring. I am not dissapointed with this serum but I personally think it's rather expensive to use as one bottle will only last me a month. I just bought a bottle of Trilogy's Rosehip Oil in replacement to this one and will see how much this will help vs the Garden of Eden serum.

Have you ever been snubbed? Here is my story....



( Picture taken from Disney )

I am rather positive that many of us has been in that situation where we are frequently snubbed by BA (beauty advisors) when we ask for samples or even browsing through their products at their counters. I am writing this in relation to my recent experience when I have decided to make a new haul in my skincare products. For me, I have dry, sensitive skin and I am very careful in selecting any products that I intend to put on my face and to see if the product is worthwhile before I make the full purchase. From the samples, I would usually check the ingredients in the cosmetic database, to see if they contain any harmful ingredients or not.

I had an unfortunate incident with not one, but TWO brands when I approach them. The first from 'Brand A', which I explained to the BA that was I interested in a particular product and I requested for a sample of it and nothing else. I was told that the sample is unavailable for that product and she just leave me with that explanation. She didn't even try to call other branches or get down my particulars to see if they can do something. She also have that attitude of not wanting to serve 'a potential client'. I was left disappointed because I have heard much reviews about that product and even more disappointed, with the attitude of the BA.

Then I have decided to approach 'Brand B', thinking if Brand A doesn't want my business, fine. I will see if Brand B is able to help. I went to the counter, browsing through their product and only approached sometime later. I explained to her that I was interested in one of their product and asked if I am able to get a sample of that because I need to try it because I have sensitive skin. She told me no and instead, told me  asked me to purchase their gift set that cost me RM400+! Obviously, she hasn't been listening to my explanation of my sensitive skin and want sales instead! I am so put off by that but told myself to CALM DOWN! Sometime later, she served another customer and left me alone. But I am determined to stay put because this product is their best seller and I want to try again. She came back to me again and later gave me a 'trial test' of the product by putting some on to my face. I was sooo scared that my face will break out and thankfully, it didn't. I left the counter, feeling a bit disappointed as well and even end up questioning myself, if I have been too sensitive. I don't think I am because I am a potential buyer and I have been snubbed.

I went back home, browse through their facebook accounts and found out that, many others also requested samples and best yet, they gladly give and said that ALL SAMPLES ARE AVAILABLE AT THEIR COUNTERS! I am definately put off and determined to voice my disappointment to the head office of both the brands by writing in. Brand A, did come back to me on that day, apologized and referred me to another counter with more experienced BA, promising the samples as well. Brand B however, came back to me after 4 days, and offered me the same promises as Brand A. ( I found out that both this brand is from the same company )

To end the story, I went back to the referred counters to retrive my samples. The BA at Brand A, acknowledged me but told me to come back later as they only have 1 BA at that time and was pretty busy. Ok, so I decide to go to Brand B. I was greeted by a very helpful BA and she analysed my skin. She hit all the jackpots regarding my skin condition and got my samples. She added a few more but I declined as I don't want to take advantage of that situation. I was pleased with her and decided to head back to Brand A. The counter was full at that moment, and there was only two BA's. I decide to linger a while but was not served. The BA, which I approched earlier on, saw me, but she didn't come to me and served others. From that, I concluded that I will not give my business to Brand B EVER AGAIN!

I tell myself: I certainly don't like to put my investment on brands that don't want my business and rather give it to the ones that are helpful and generous. So to any of you out there who has been snubbed,

• Don't be afraid to take it to the higher level. Write to them and honestly explain to them your experience. I found out that they are more helpful and will follow up with your request or situation than those at the counters.
• Reconsider to take your investments to those brands that are helpful, BA's that understand your skin conditions, that listens to you and are willing to give you samples without any hesitations.

Have any of you been in the situation as I have?

My Reads: Guide for Selecting Skin Care Products for Body



I've grown to love Marie Veronique Organics a lot and I just love reading her blog. From her blog, I've learnt quite a number of things regarding our skin conditions, ingredients and even articles like this one. I thought this is informative and would like to share the pointers from this article to those who are following my blog.

Look for Safe Scents:

1) Avoid fragrance or “parfum”.
Some products will describe their fragrance as “natural,” or “derived from natural sources.” If the sources are not listed it may contain synthetic fragrance.

2) If you are looking for an unscented product, buy products marked “fragrance-free”.
An unscented product may still contain a masking scent.

3) Buy products made with essential oils.

Products containing essential oils are a good alternative to those made with synthetic fragrances. The product should list should list all the essential oils it contains. If you have an allergy problem don’t settle for “Brand X’s proprietary oil blend.” This is not enough information. Citrus essential oils can photosensitize skin and should be avoided.

Moisturize Safely and Effectively:

1) Look for a good proportion of oils to water.
If you like lotions, look for products containing a reasonable number of oils in addition to water content. There are a number of good oils to choose from that are stable and high in essential fatty acids. Some good are: sunflower seed, avocado, apricot kernel, coconut and jojoba.

2) Look for cold-pressed or expeller-pressed oils.
Solvent extractions can leave traces of contaminants in the end product.

3) Avoid products containing mineral oil and petrolatum.
Mineral oil, aka petrolatum, is a by-product of petroleum. It can clog pores and eventually dry the skin rather than moisturize it.

In the following week, I will continue with the articles of " Why Avoid Fragrances" and "Water, Wax and Oils in Skincare"

So, whenever you are purchasing a new product, use this guide to ensure that you are choosing a safe product for your skin.

Review Esmeria Organics Butterfly & Aloe Vera Shampoo

Esmeria Organics Butterfly Bush & Aloe Vera Frequent Use Shampoo 250ml RM39.90

I have been using Lakme K.Therapy Peeling Shampoo a few months back ( read review HERE ), which left me with dry hair and dry hands. However, it did solve my dandruff problems though. So, I set out again to find another replacement and I came across Esmeria's shampoo, since the price is pretty decent for a product with an organic background. 

Ingredients: Aqua, decyl glucoside, aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice, sodium cocoyl glutamate, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, xanthan gum, tocopherol, helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, citrus dulcis (sweet orange) oil, glycerin, buddleja davidii (butterfly bush) extract, thymus vulgaris (thyme) extract, coco glucoside, glyceryl oleate

My Experience:

The shampoo smells pretty nice and soothing. The liquid is transparent and funnily, I feel the texture is almost identical to the Bud's Lavender Shower Gel which I am using now. It didn't really lather well but once you massage it on your hair for a few minutes, it foams up and thickens as you continue. I do experience that the longer the time that you leave it on your hair, my hair would become somewhat become 'heavier' and well conditioned. It may have to do with some of the ingredients of this shampoo. After rinsing, the scalp really feels clean. I didn't buy their conditioner as I usually use my leave on conditioner before I blow dry my hair.

I usually wash my hair on alternate days( I know, it's bad ) and with my experience with this shampoo, I can't do that. On the 3rd day, my hair becomes itchy and very oily on the scalp. So I have decided to change my regime. I will wash my hair everyday to see how it goes. Now I am in my 3rd week, I am hooked on washing my hair everyday. My hair does feel cleaner, fresher, not oily at the scalp and my itching stops! I also noticed that my hair drop less than before. I am not saying that this shampoo is the miracle worker here, I would say the combination of frequent washing with this shampoo helps my condition. It certainly does and I am satisfied with this new regime.

Overall:

I give this shampoo a rating of 4 over 5. This shampoo does a pretty decent job and my hair does feel rather managable and clean. This is an ideal shampoo for everyday washing that helps to control my oily and itchy scalp.  Plus, this shampoo is kind to my frequent dry hands. However, the downside of this product is that it weighs down your hair a little. Mind you, I have lots of hair and on a thicker side. I also find that the shampoo becomes 'runny', not at a medium consistency, after placing it in the bathroom for long. It may be due to the humidity level in the bath so I need to place it in a normal room condition. Other than that, if you are looking for a frequent use shampoo, this product might be good for you.

This item was purchased by me for my personal purposes. This review is based on my honest and personal experience with this product and is not influenced by any parties.

Review Johnson's Baby Soothing Naturals Moisture Rich Wash

If you are a frequent follower to my blog, you might know that Johnson's baby products are my staple bodycare( from baths to lotions ). My preference towards baby or kid's products is because they use milder ingredients, in oppose to adult ones, that contains harmful or harsh ingredients. Generally, I find that baby products cost  cheaper too. Many of you would know by now that I am on a quest to search for more safer products. Honestly, safer products=Pricey or costly. So I am looking for more 'budget friendly' + safe products, mainly for daily usage of shower creams, shampoo or cleansing gel/milk. Why? I personally believe that one should not spend more on products that you are rinsing off after using it only for a few minutes.

Coming back to this review, I know that this product is worthy to mention in my reviews. Of all the Johnson's baby products, this is my favourite! I bought many bottles of this after falling in love with it at my first wash. Sadly, this product is no longer available in Malaysia anymore but my hopes were up when I saw it in Bangkok. Here is a brief product description:

Johnson's baby soothing naturals combines the gentleness of Johnson's with the soothing powers of nature. Johnson's baby soothing naturals Moisture Rich Wash is made easy with a unique blend of Vitamin E, olive leaf extract and skin essential minerals. This creamy wash helps restore lost moisture, helps relieve dryness to keep baby's skin soft and healthy. This No More Tears Moisture Rich Wash pampers baby's skin without stinging baby's delicate eyes. It is clinically proven mild, hypoallergenic and thoroughly tested by dermatologists, so you can trust it for everyday use.

My Experience:
As said, I fell in love with this product at the first wash. It smells so wonderful ( The best smelling Johnson's baby product ever ) and it certainly is moisturizing to my skin. Unlike other shower creams, the lather is minimal and I like it. After usage, my skin is smooth, smells great and replenishes my dry skin. I gave a bottle to my sister and niece, who have ezema prone skin and their skin did not itch or dry out after using this. They did experience itch and dryness with other Johnson's product but not this one and they love this too!

Overall:
I have to give this a 5 out of 5 rating because I really adore this product. Comes in a great long lasting pump bottle too! I have one bottle left and I treat it like a gem. I am really hoping that Johnson & Johnson in Malaysia will continue with this product. I am sure this product will certainly do well for people who are cautious about irritant ingredients. For me, this product is love, love, love.

Do you ask for samples before you purchase?

Many of us do read reviews from blogs and sometimes, we are so tempted to run out and grab that product as quick as we can. And we, mentally telling ourselves, that " if it works for her, it will work for me". This is not the case and we have to be wise to know what we will be investing. I am particularly careful about using new skincare products before I make a full purchase and that is why I will brace myself to the counter and ask for a few samples to try. Do keep in mind that I don't usually change my skincare products and has always been faithful to using a particular brand for sometime...until recently, I have decided to make a haul. Honestly, skin care products don't come cheap and many would agree that it's getting more expensive each year. And each year, the cosmetic companies will come out with something new and we will end up buying things that we don't need it at the point. ( Ok...I will further elaborate on that matter next time ) Now, coming back to the main point, do you ask for samples before you make a purchase? I think it's most important because we need to test out first whether the particular product will suit your skin condition. We may not be able to see the results so soon but we can have a 'preview' on the texture or scent, or absorption level. 

On my recent experience, I have asked for several samples from several brands, some will gladly provide but some won't and will have the thought 'that we are looking for freebies' Sigh! Anyways, I will give at least 1 to 2 weeks to try before I move on to another, just so, it will have sufficient time to see if I liked the products or not. Sadly, some products worked and some don't. Here is the list:

Sample product that works for me:

Clarins : Gentle Foaming Cleanser with Shea Butter, Hydraquench Cream-Mask and White Plus Intensive Whitening Smoothing Serum.

L'occitane: Immortelle Eye Balm

Estee Lauder: Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex and Advanced Night Repair Eye.

Sample product that dont't work for me:

Clarins : Hydraquench Intensive Bi-Phase Serum and Hydraquench Cream.

L'occitane: Very Precious Cream

Estee Lauder: Hydrationist Maximum Moisture Creme

Clinelle: Moisture Glow

Dermalogica: Skin Smoothing Cream, Age Smart Skin Resurfacer, Bioxil Calming Face Oil

By trying out some products, I actually learn that my skin is really more on the dehydrated type and it needed a good face oil, topped with my current intensive moisturiser. I have also obtained knowladge about the ingredients of the samples I've tried, to see if it contains harmful ingredients or not. Lastly, see if the products is worth to purchase.

So, go out there, get a sample ( if they provide ) and try out before you make the full purchase.