Can your cellphone cause acne?

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Too much exposure to mobile phone heat, not good for the skin

People use mobile phones every day in more ways than one, unlike before when it was only meant for calls. Instant messaging came and it didn’t take too long for it to have games and other entertainment features such as a music player and a radio. Today, people use it to get information from the internet, while numerous apps have made it possible to do things with just the touch of their fingertips. But among the numerous features a mobile phone has, the camera is probably the most used of them all. From taking pictures and preserving memories to taking selfies and show off.

While mobile phones have given people the power to do things with just a swipe or touch of their fingertips, the constant use of mobile phones, especially those who are relentlessly taking selfies may cause some harmful effects on the skin. The heat coming from mobile phones is known to promote the number of antigens that could cause allergies, especially to those who already a history in having several allergic reactions. Combining this heat to the use of nickel and cobalt in the phone trimmings could also make the skin red and itchy. And with these skin irritation brought by having too much heat exposure from mobile phones, blemishes and acne could breakout on the skin.

Experts also have revealed gruesome details about the collection of dirt, bacteria, and other nastiness that builds up in cellular phone. When mobile phones get in contact to the skin to make a call, the skin is not only in direct contact with the bacteria, but it also starts to perspire and even trap oil in the pores. Worst yet, the pressure of the phone on the skin creates blemishes.

Luckily, America’s #1 acne treatment system, Proactiv Solution has a 3-Step System that is dermatologist-developed and is designed to help clear existing acne and prevent future outbreaks, while gently taking care of the skin. This will also make the skin always ready for a selfie without having to use any filters before posting it online. 

Proactiv’s 3-Step System starts with the application of the Renewing Cleanser, which contains Benzoyl Peroxide to help kill acne-causing bacteria. The ultra-fine, micro-crystal BPO penetrates pores fast while being gentle on the skin and tiny exfoliating beads help to unclog the pores of impurities, such as excess sebum, keratin and dead skin cells. Next is the Proactiv Revitalizing Toner which refines and purifies pores through gentle exfoliation. It contains soothing botanicals to gently remove excess oil for refreshed, clear skin.

And finally, the Repairing Lotion, is a treatment that helps to heal breakouts and prevent new ones from forming. Each Proactiv kit comes with a free Refining Mask that helps keep skin clear and acne-free. Formulated with sulfur, a proven acne-fighting ingredient, reaches deep into the pores where blemishes begin. The Refining Mask unclogs pores, pampers inflamed skin, and softens the skin’s texture.

Taking a break from these long heat exposure from mobile phones will definitely improve skin health— trimming down hours of phone calls to a minimum, lessen the amount of time playing games on the phone, and probably just take a few selfies instead of filling the phone’s memory with a lot of it. By using Proactiv to have that blemish free skin, the perfect selfie could just be a click away.

To know more about Proactiv Solution visit http://my.proactiv.com.ph/. 

Proactiv + Green Tea Moisturizer - Review

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I love matcha and all sorts of green tea stuff. So why not try a green tea moisturizer, right? :)

Proactiv+ Green Tea Moisturizer is a lightweight, non-greasy formula contains Green Tea, to help fight free radicals and is rich in mineral and botanical extracts. It has been designed to help soothe dry skin without clogging pores and is the perfect moisturizer for blemish-prone skin.

I have a combination of oily/dry skin. My T-zone is quite oily, while the other areas are a bit dry.
This moisturizer is actually perfect even when you have oily skin or oily parts in your face - just use it sparingly. I use it in the morning, before I apply my sunscreen. Wearing your SPF (I use 50 and higher) is a must especially when you're using anti-acne products.

The Proactiv+ Green Tea Moisturizer is ideal for men and women with dry skin associated with acne medication because it helps maintain skin moisture and a soft, supple tone.


What are the benefits of using Proactiv+ Green Tea Moisturizer?

• Provides relief to dry, irritated skin
• Non-Comedogenic (won't clog pores)
• Contains Green Tea EGCG, a potent antioxidant designed to fight free radicals while helping to soothe and calm the skin
• Features hydration ingredients and minerals and emollients that are designed to nourish and soothe the skin
• Alleviate skin dryness

It didn't affect my makeup, nor caused excessive oil. This is probably because I used it sparingly. I don't use it over my makeup though, as I feel that I would need to apply sunscreen again over it. 
I like its packaging. It comes in a tube that you can easily tote around.


Product Ingredients:
Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Sodium Polyacrylate, Iris Florentina Root Extract,Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Epigallocatechin Gallate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Trideceth-6, Zinc Sulfate, Retinyl Palmitate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, PPG-2 Myristyl Ether Propionate, Alcohol, Allantoin, Propanediol, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate, Polyquaternium-11, Disodium EDTA, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance (Parfum), Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citronellol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Linalool.

I try to stay away from skin care products with fragrance and alcohol, but since I use this only once a day and sparingly, I can easily combat any of their effects if they even have any.

How does it complement the Proactiv 3 Step System?
Apply daily, as needed, to alleviate dryness. Can be worn alone or under makeup. When using the 3-
step system, the Proactiv+ Green Tea Moisturizer should be applied after Step 3 – Repairing Treatment.

If you're looking for a moisturizer infused with green tea and is specifically designed for acne and blemish-prone skin, this is a good product to try.

Where to buy?
a. Proactiv Online Shopping: http://my.proactiv.com.ph

b. Proactiv Door-to-Door Delivery Hotlines:
Metro Manila Landline: (02) 729-2222
Globe Provincial: 1-800-8-729-8888
PLDT Provincial: 1-800-10-889-4444
Mobile No.: 0917-801-8888

c. Proactiv Mall Kiosks
Ground Floor, Glorietta 2 – Contact Number: (02) 512-5885
2nd Floor, Trinoma – Contact Number: (02) 512-5981

d. Selected Watsons and SM Department Stores:
G/F, SM Cubao Department Store (Beauty Section), Cubao, Quezon City
G/F, SM Makati Department Store (Beauty Section), Ayala Center, Makati City
Level 2, SM North Edsa Department Store (Beauty Section), North Ave. cor. EDSA Quezon City
G/F, SM Megamall Department Store (Beauty Section), Building B., Ortigas, Mandaluyong City
Level 1, SM Fairview Department Store (Beauty Section), corner Regalado Avenue, Quirino Highway,Quezon City
G/F, SM Southmall Department Store (Beauty Section), Alabang - Zapote Rd, Almanza Uno, Las Piñas
G/F, SM Mall of Asia Department Store (Beauty Section), Seaside Blvd, Pasay City
Level 2, Watsons, SM Megamall 4, Building A., Ortigas, Mandaluyong City
G/F, Watsons, SM Mall of Asia, near Starbucks, Seaside Blvd, Pasay City
Upper Ground Floor, Watsons, SM Aura Premiere, near Hypermarket, McKinley Parkway, Taguig
Suggested Retail Price: Php999, 30ml 1fl.oz
Delivery Fee (Hotline and Online Order):
Php150 – Metro Manila
Php330 - Provincial

***FREE delivery for Online and Hotline order if purchased along with Proactiv Solution Combination Therapy 30day or 60 day kit!***

Adam Levine for Proactiv Philippines Commercial

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Lead singer of the Grammy Award-winning band Maroon 5, Adam's made a name for himself with a signature voice woven into the musical fabric of today. His signature voice swept throngs of women off their feet. But despite his hot looks and glowing achievements in his remarkable career, Adam Levine, the “Sexiest Man Alive” for 2013 was, once upon a time, someone who struggled with acne breakouts during his teenage years. This man, the envy of many men because of his undeniable charisma and confidence, also suffered because of acne just like any normal teenager, and grappled with lack of confidence. For someone who looked so natural in front of the camera, Adam was once forced to stay away from the crowd.

“People might think that nothing faces me, but that’s just not true. Nobody is proud of having acne. It’s isn’t fun; it sucks. I suffered from acne when I was younger. I was so insecure. It was not pleasant experience”

Fortunately, America’s #1 acne treatment system, Proactiv Solution, gave him the answer to his acne problems. Proactiv’s 3-Step System is dermatologist-developed and is designed to help clear existing acne and prevent future outbreaks, while gently taking care of the skin.
“So if your acne is your problem the solution is Proactiv, bottomline. I know how important it is to get acne out of your life. Proactiv helped me. It’s no brainer. Just do it. Because you’ll be very happy. It is so great that there is something out there now, that is legitimate, Adam added."
Now with clear skin, Adam Levine no longer feels the need to hide. “It is game changer; it treats acne and treats your skin right,” Adam said. “As a guy, I don’t like a lot of male acne products. But with this, its three easy steps and you’re doing all you need to do.”

Watch full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bwvl9df45Gk&spfreload=5

Proactiv Solution comes in 30-Day kit (P2,495) and 60-Day kit (P3,995) and is available at all Watsons nationwide. 

Althea Turns 1 - Birthday Celebration July 20 to 31

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It's Althea's 1st Birthday! And as a treat to everyone who has been showing love and support to this wonderful brand, they've cooked up some awesome deals and promos! 

• Limited Edition Birthday Box + DIY Party Kit
  For orders placed on 20/7 onwards. While stocks last.
  
  
• Free Goodies for first 1,500 shoppers
  Full size beauty products. While stocks last. 
  
  
• Birthday Giveaway. Pick 3 Top Sellers for 100% REBATE!
  Rebate will be credited into your account. 
  
  
• #AltheaTurns1 Instagram Contest
  - Got your Althea party kit? Wish us a happy birthday with #altheaturns1 and stand a chance to win amazing prizes such as Macbook Air, Ipad Air 2, iPhone 6S, Galaxy S6 Edge, Canon EOS M10 Selfie Camera, Althea credits and beauty hampers from Althea! 
  - Prizes total worth KRW10,000,000 to be won.
  - Contest starts from 20th July - 15th August, 2016.
  
  

*Terms and conditions apply. Please refer to www.althea.kr and Althea Facebook for more information. 

I will be publishing my Unboxing Post next, so please watch out for it!

Adam Levine reveals secret to his confidence

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Who is Adam Levine:
He is the lead singer of the Grammy Award winning band, Maroon 5, and has made a name for himself with a signature voice that is sure to sweep women off their feet. Maroon 5’s releases have gone gold and platinum, setting records for most #1 singles and he’s been a judge on the Emmy Award-winning The Voice. He also starred in the indie film Begin Again, where his 222 Records label track Lost Stars was nominated for a Best Original Song at the Academy Awards. 

While most women are swooned by the “Sexiest Man Alive” of 2013 with his hot looks and remarkable talent, men also aspire for the same kind of charisma and confidence that he evokes. Little do they know that like most of us, Adam Levine struggled to regain confidence during his teenage years. He suffered from severe acne breakouts, which took away much of his confidence and forced him to stay away from the crowd. 

“I was just ashamed of my acne,” Adam shared. “I had horrible breakouts. I would hide from cameras, hide in my room. Acne just shows up and causes trouble and it messes with my confidence.” And even today, when his schedule gets busy, the stress can take a toll on his skin. “I am a very active person and it kind of lead to zits, which is unfortunate but a reality for me,” he chuckled. 

“My life for now is unbelievably busy and I feel fortunate and blessed every day,” Adam said. He also shared that unlike most people’s belief about celebrities having to look so good on screen or otherwise, they also suffer from the same skin problems that make many people lose their self-confidence and hide away from many of the good things in life. “I always want to make sure that people understand that even though we are celebrities or successful, we are no different than anybody else.” 

Fortunately, America’s #1 acne treatment system, Proactiv Solution, gave him the answer to his acne
problems. Proactiv’s 3-Step System is dermatologist-developed and is designed to help clear existing
acne and prevent future outbreaks, while gently taking care of the skin. “It is so great that there is
something out there now, that is legitimate,” Adam added. 

It takes no more than five minutes to complete this system, which is great for busy people like Adam
Levine. It starts with the application of Step 1, the Renewing Cleanser, which contains Benzoyl Peroxide to help kill acne-causing bacteria. The ultra-fine, micro-crystal BPO penetrates pores fast while being gentle on the skin and tiny exfoliating beads help to unclog the pores of impurities, such as excess sebum, keratin and dead skin cells.

Step 2 is the Proactiv Revitalizing Toner which refines and purifies pores through gentle exfoliation. It contains soothing botanicals to gently remove excess oil for refreshed, clear skin.

Step 3, the Repairing Lotion, is a treatment that helps to heal breakouts and prevent new ones emphasized. “You have got to take these steps if you want to take care of your skin,” Adam Finally, “It has your skin in mind and in fact a lot of it is restorative and healthy, which is great.” from forming.

Each Proactiv kit comes with a free Refining Mask that helps keep skin clear and acne-free. Formulated with sulfur, a proven acne-fighting ingredient, reaches deep into the pores where blemishes begin. The Refining Mask unclogs pores, pampers inflamed skin, and softens the skin’s texture. 

Now with clear skin, Adam Levin no longer feels the need to hide. “It is game changer; it treats acne and treats your skin right,” Adam said. “As a guy, I don’t like a lot of male acne products. But with this, its three easy steps and you’re doing all you need to do.”

Benzoyl Peroxide - Best Acne Treatment

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Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) has been known to be a compound that fights acne from getting worse. What most people are afraid of are the misconceptions that surrounds it, such as, “your skin gets addicted to it” and more popularly, “quitting its application will make acne faster and with a vengeance”. These are 
just some of the reasons why people tend to shy away from a relatively cheaper and effective way in treating acne. The only probable and logical reason to avoid BPO is having an allergic reaction to it.

To better understand why people should have it as an option for acne treatment, an understanding on how it works, what it does, and how to use it properly, should take away all the misconceptions that surrounds BPO. 

Acne happens when a pore blocked by excess keratin, sebum, and dead skin cells comes in contact with bacteria which cause the inflammation. What BPO does is that it breaks down into benzoic acid and oxygen, and the oxygen acts as a free radical destroying the cells that blocks the pores along with the 
bacteria growing on it. During the early stages of acne formation, BPO is known to be effective in preventing these outbreaks on the skin.

The BPO scare however, comes from its misuse. Having too much of it on the skin, making sure that the acne-causing bacteria is eliminated from the surface, gives the skin unnecessary stress than protection. That stress leaves the skin more vulnerable to more acne outbreaks after quitting from BPO treatment.

Using BPO the right way, meaning more strategically, on skin could help drastically minimize the formation of acne and prevent future outbreaks. Fortunately, America’s #1 acne treatment system, 
Proactiv Solution, offers a 3-Step System that is developed and recommended by dermatologists. This skin care regimen helps clear existing acne and prevents future outbreaks while gently taking care of the skin.

It only takes no more than five minutes to do this 3-Step System, starting with the application of Proactiv Renewing Cleanser that has Benzoyl Peroxide that kills acne-causing bacteria. It has ultra-fine micro-crystal BPO that penetrates pores fast while being gentle on the skin. Tiny, round exfoliating beads unclog the pores of impurities, such as excess sebum, keratin, and dead skin cells.

Next is applying alcohol-free Proactiv Revitalizing Toner which refines and purifies pores, exfoliating the skin further by removing more dead skin cells and keeps pores unclogged. It also has soothing botanicals that gently balance the skin tone, removes excess oil for a refreshed, clear skin.

Finally, Proactiv Repairing Lotion is an as-light-as-feather treatment that heals the blemishes off the skin and also helps in preventing new acne from forming. Each Proactiv kit comes with a free Refining Mask that makes sure to keep skin clear and acne-free. Formulated with sulfur, a proven acne-fighting ingredient, reaches deep into the pores where blemishes begin. The Refining Mask unclogs pores, 
pampers inflamed skin, and softens the skin’s texture.

And besides, Proactiv has only 2.5% of BPO, which is lower than other over-the-counter acne treatments so it is safer to use daily. Moreover, at this concentration level BPO can already effectively kill acne-causing bacteria so there’s really no cause for worries--really.

So not be afraid of whatever misconceptions BPO has and set your skin free from acne. Use it strategically, and you will never have to worry about acne again.

Proactiv Solution comes in 30-Day kit (Php 2,495) and 60-Day kit (Php 3,995) and is available at all Watsons stores nationwide.

TCL’s Latest Innovation In Display Technology, Now Here in the Philippines

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As one of the leading brands in the area of display technology, TCL has managed to increase its market value on global expansion through the years. The top-tier brand of television and mobile phones has gained acclaim for bringing premium home entertainment to consumers, committed to make life more exciting.  

According to IHS Technology, TCL ranked third globally in the first three quarters of 2015, with a market share of 5.7%. In China alone, it has achieved a brand value of 71 billion RMB, topping the country’s list of being the #1 TV exporter.  

From its humble beginnings as a small joint venture of tape production in the city of Huizhou, China to becoming a formidable international electronics company, TCL is slowly making a dent in the Philippines with its state-of-the-art television known to delivering an immersive picture quality. 
This year, TCL is introducing the first QUHD TV series, a trailblazer in the high-end product category. Equipped with a unique Quantum Dot Display Technology which far exceeds UHD TVs in terms of display effects, definition and color purity, QUHD TV Series attempts to bring the cinematic experience into the household while also offering functional and interactive features in the product.  
Here in the Philippines, TCL will be launching Cityline 1, one of the primary products of QUHD TV series to be released in the coming months. Available in both flat and curved designs, with sizes ranging from 50” and 55” to 65”, it brings together stunning image quality, elegant design, powerful hardware and ultimate entertainment content needed to up the ante of consumer-oriented TV. The product also takes pride of its elegant feel, equipped with a 9.9mm slim screen, metallic body and bezel design.  

The latest innovation in top display technology will be unveiled soon. For integrated entertainment solutions that combine sleek, upscale design with high-speed functionality, keep an eye on TCL’s newest products to be launched soon, as well as its foray into becoming a diversified business through the release of a new product line.  

Here is a sneak peek of what's in store for all the techie people and TCL fans.

About TCL Multimedia  
Headquartered in China, TCL Multimedia Technology Holdings Limited (HKSE stock code: 01070) is one of the leading players in the global TV industry, engaged in the research and development, manufacturing and distribution of consumer electronic products. Through a new product-and-user-oriented business model that focuses primarily on a “double +” strategy which includes “intelligence + Internet” and “products + services” as the main direction, striving to become a “global entertainment technology enterprise” that provides integrated entertainment solutions to customers.   

For more information, please visit their website  or Like them on Facebook. 

Alex Gonzaga goes “Mellow”

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TV show host extraordinaire, actress and certified funny girl Alex Gonzaga recently visited the radio station of Mellow Touch 94.7 in order to promote her latest endorsement, Proactiv, a top skin care product. Exhibiting a young and vibrant charm, Alex, the first Filipina face of Proactiv and who is also a loyal Proactiv user, wowed her hosts with her trademark wit and candor that made her one of the top TV hosts in the country today. She also explained how Proactiv is so easy to use in making it a daily skin care routine in just 3 easy steps.

For Step 1, use the Renewing Cleanser, an oil-free medicated exfoliating cleanser that kills acne-causing bacteria with benzoyl peroxide.

Step 2 is the Revitalizing Toner, a refreshing, alcohol-free toner that refines and purifies pores, with Glycolic Acid that exfoliates dead skin cells to help keep pores unplugged.

Finally, Step 3, the Repairing Treatment, a feather-light, invisible medicated treatment that kills acne-causing bacteria preventing zits and acne.

Watch full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhnq7HPzkl8

Proactiv Solution comes in 30-Day kit (P2,495) and 60-Day kit (P3,995) and is available at all Watsons nationwide.

Huma Island Resort & Spa Nominated in World Luxury Spa Awards for 2015

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Huma Island Resort's Kapuruan was recently nominated for the Best Luxury Resort Spa category in The World Luxury Spa Awards of 2015. Launched in 2009 by the renowned World Luxury Hotel Awards, its mission is to maintain and award the highest standards within the global luxury spa sector, and set benchmarks in service delivery within this highly competitive industry.

Huma Island Resort's Kapuruan Spa's nomination is an indication of its drive to pursue world class status through the provision of a facility, with services that meet international standards for its discerning guests. No other spa in the Philippines offers unique glass bottom flooring that allows views of underwater fauna and a wide selection of Asian and Moroccan treatments. With five treatment villas built over water, the spa is a picturesque place to enjoy the best massages, wraps, and facial therapies in Palawan.

The winners for the World Luxury Spa Awards will be determined through voting, and will be based on service delivery alone. Guests are encouraged to cast their votes during the annual voting process which can be done online. Vote Kapuruan Spa for Best Luxury Resort Spa of 2015 http://www.luxuryhotelawards.com/vote-spa

About Huma Island Resort & Spa

Huma Island Resort & Spa is a new holiday destination for the elite traveler. It is a sanctuary

for discoveries. With approximately 15 kilometers perimeter, Huma Island Resort & Spa has 81 spacious thatched roof high ceiling villas and a vibrant plush interior rousing Middle Eastern vibe.

Huma Island Resort & Spa is owned and operated by a Kuwaiti Company, UNITED INTERNATIONAL HOTELS GROUP W.L.L. with international operations in Maldives, Oman, Hungary, Malta, Philippines and  Kuwait.  UIHG WLL is part of ITHC group of companies (www.ithc.com.kw) , owned by Dr. Hamad Al-Tuwaijri , a prominent and successful business figure in Kuwait .

For more information, please call:

Laurie Reyes-Blay

For Huma Island Resort & Spa

Tel: +639178138511 |  +632 553 0119

E-mail: pr@humaisland.com

www.humaisland.com

Huma Island Resort and Spa Social Media Accounts

Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/humaislandpalawan/

Instagram – @humaisland

Twitter – @Huma_Island

Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/humaisland

Youtube - Huma Island Resort & Spa/YouTube

Proactiv Success Stories

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If you're still unsure if Proactiv is the right anti-acne treatment for you, or if you think Proactiv is not suitable for Filipino skin, please continue reading this post.

Let me share with you several success stories of real Filipino users of Proactiv by citing their testimonials as examples, and linking to their uploaded videos.

Acne Creates Wall
When you have acne, you tend to avoid social events and you shy away from situations where your skin is the spotlight and makes you stop doing the things you love with the people you love. Acne influences your self-esteem, self-confidence, your outlook in general and your social life. Even mild breakouts can negatively impact how you feel about yourself. Acne truly affects more than just your skin. It can affect your entire life in very real ways.


Reclaim Control Over your Skin with Proactiv!
Gladly, there’s Proactiv! Proactiv Solution is the only acne management system which combines medicated ingredients that work together to treat and control acne. It uses several different ingredients in one system to treat the blemishes you have now and help keep new ones from forming. With Proactiv, you’ll get back control over your skin.

Here are some of the inspirational stories of ordinary people who had won over acne and are now enjoying the life-changing benefits of clear, beautiful skin.


Alex Gonzaga

“I’m really thankful I gave it a try. I use Proactiv everyday and it’s amazing. It really works! It leaves my skin feeling fresh and clean especially after a long day at the studio. Now, my skin is balanced and under control. No more oily cheeks, no more dry skin and best of all, no more pimples.” – Alex Gonzaga


Nolin Dela Cruz

“After six weeks of using Proactiv, my skin improved. Ngayon, mas confident na ako…” – Nolin


Lourdes Agcaoili

“Nakita ko agad ang resulta. Nag-heal ang mga pimples at na-lessen ang oiliness. And then nung umuwi ang husband ko from abroad, he said, ‘Wow ang ganda mo ngayon. You look great!’ ”. 
– Lourdes


Mark Chuahiock

“After using it for three months, my friends began noticing that my skin was improving. Then after six months, my face was all clear. Now, I recommend my friends to use Proactiv. And I’m the one inviting them for photo shoots”. – Mark

Mike Irapta

“Of course I will recommend Proactiv, talagang effective siya. Makikita niyo naman wala na yung acne ko.” - Mike

Althea Korea to Launch in PH + My First Althea Haul

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Happy Valentine's Day! If you're a doting boyfriend/husband and you're still in search on what you can give to your significant other this season, or just an awesome and badass independent beauty, well I have a great news for you.

Althea Korea, a popular shopping website that offers authentic Korean beauty products, is finally catering to its lovely fans in the Philippines! 

They have a wide variety of Korean beauty  products - from makeup, skincare and hair care - from a long list of top Korean brands that a lot of us haven't gotten the chance to try because they're not yet available here. 

What can we expect from Althea?

1. They offer FREE SHIPPING to their customers in the Philippines for orders worth Php1500 and up. They will ship our orders directly from Korea to your doorstep!

2. The products they sell are 100% AUTHENTIC, guaranteed! In case any product is confirmed as non-authentic, Althea will honor returns right away and refund 200% of the purchase value. Yes, 200%. They are that confident about their products' authenticity.

3. They have the BEST price available. They manage to sell these products at a lower price because they get them directly from the brands in Korea. No middle man, no extra charge. :)

4. They have Unconditional Returns. If you're not completely satisfied with your order for any reason, Althea guarantees 30-day unconditional returns. Please go to their website for more details about this. :)

I was one of the first lucky ones to shop at Althea, and I felt like a kid in a candy store! I've always loved Korean makeup, particularly their brow products and BB creams. But my lovely friend Carol suggested I also try Korean skincare products, and these are some of Althea's must-haves!

My first Althea haul!

My pretty pink package from Althea Korea!

A snap of the inside. My orders came in a secured packaging, complete with bubble wraps (which I've played with already, so I had to throw them out).

My first Althea haul!

Closer look at the Korean skin care products that I got :)

The Althea Promise

I got the WondeRuci Light Light Eye Balm. Carol swears by it because it's like a treatment AND a primer for your under eyes. It helps minimize creasing in your concealer, which happens almost regularly to me, thanks to out humid weather.

Light Light Eye Balm

Next, for a touch of glam and royalty, I got the Piolang 24K Gold Wrapping Mask. Tammy uses it before applying makeup to prep her skin, while Carol prefers using it at night. It helps in tightening your skin and giving you that natural glow. It has REAL gold in it, FYI. 

Piolang 24K Gold Wrapping Mask

This is B&Soap Mamie Blue. It's a face pack that leaves your skin refreshed, so it's probably best used after a tiring day at work or school. 

Mamie Blue

I can't wait to try all of them and post my reviews! :) 

Don't forget! Althea Korea wil launch their  PH website http://ph.althea.kr tomorrow, February 15. They're having a huge GIVEAWAY! 

They're offering FREE 300 credits to use for shopping for every new sign up.

FREE SHIPPING will be given for every Php1000 spent during their launching month.

They will also offer Daebak Deals 1+1 and Zero Pedos Deals! 

Don't forget to post pictures of the products that you bought, want or planning to buy with the hashtags #altheakorea and #altheaph. 

Enjoy shopping! :) 

The Truth About Acne

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Photo from http://bit.ly/1WNj6pi

What is acne and how does it develops? 
Acne is the most common skin disease and very common to teenagers. Nearly everyone experiences acne at some point in life. It may last for a few months or a few years. 

An acne blemish begins approximately 2-3 weeks before it appears on your skin’s surface. So while it may seem you get a pimple overnight, what you’re actually seeing is the final stage of a much longer process. It starts in your sebaceous hair follicles – the tiny holes you know as pores. Deep within each follicle, your sebaceous glands are working to produce sebum, the oil that keeps your skin moist and pliable. As your skin renews itself, the old cells die, mix with your skin’s natural oils, and are sloughed off. Under normal circumstances, these cells are shed gradually, making room for fresh new skin. 

Dead skin cells may block the pores, resulting to over accumulation of oil underneath. Bacteria that live on the skin naturally begin to grow and multiply in this site, triggering an inflammatory response causing a red, angry pore that we may see as pimple already at the tail-end of the acne formation process. 

What provokes Acne? 
Contrary to popular belief, acne is not caused by eating too much chocolates or oily foods, nor does it occur exclusively on teenagers. Acne is a cyclic process that everyone experiences, and can occur at any age. Stress, periods, climate, cosmetic products (comedogenic), drugs and industrial chemical are factors that provoke acne. 

How to Prevent Acne?
Nourish - There is no miracle diet to clear acne, but a healthy, balanced diet can help your skin fight acne. Choose fresh, unprocessed foods from all four groups and drink eight glasses of water a day, or more when you exercise. 

Cleanse - To maintain clear skin, stick to a daily acne-fighting skin-care routine. Gently wash your face with a soap-free exfoliating cleanser twice a day to remove excess oil, dirt and dead skin cells. Avoid over washing, which dries out your skin and causes it to produce even more oil.

Protect - While small amounts of sun exposure may seem to clear acne at first, the sun actually dries your skin, causing it to produce more oil and dead cells, creating the ideal environment for blemishes. Avoid excess sun exposure and wear at least SPF 15 sunscreen every day, even if it's cloudy. 
Rest - A good night's sleep (7-8 hours) can do wonders for your complexion and immune system, which helps fight infection to clear acne more quickly. 

Exercise - Your skin benefits from an increase in blood flow and blood oxygen level achieved by exercise. If you are prone to body acne, wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing when exercising, and shower with an acne-fighting body wash soon after. 

Relax - Acne starts inside hair follicles, where your sebaceous glands produce the protective oil that keeps skin soft and supple. Hormones control these glands, and psychological stress affects hormone levels. Too much stress can yield too much oil and trigger the acne cycle. So relax—take a bath, go for a walk, do yoga or whatever you want to make you feel happy and calm. 

How Proactiv Solution Combination Therapy stops acne? 

1. The Proactiv Renewing Cleanser (Step 1) and the Proactiv Revitalizing Toner (Step 2) works by removing dead skin cells, ensuring that the pores don’t get clogged. The Proactiv Revitalizing Toner (Step 2) removes excess oils. 
2. The Proactiv Renewing Cleanser (Step 1) and Proactiv Repairing Treatment (Step 3) kill the bacteria and prevent proliferation. 
3. The Refining Mask helps reduce the inflammation and swelling. 

Proactiv is designed to attack acne “proactively” – delivering the right concentration of medicines and acne-care agents, in the right order and concentrations, to help control the acne cycle before breakouts occur. If you have acne, Proactiv Solution is the key to clear complexion.

Proactiv is safe and effective for almost everyone with mild to moderate acne – healing the breakouts you may have today and keeping your complexion clear by helping to prevent future breakouts. By clearing your skin, Proactiv also helps blemishes from leaving behind permanent scars. Proactiv combines mild concentrations of antimicrobial acne medicine with botanical skin-care agents to gently remove excess dead skin cells and oil (to keep pores from clogging); to kill acne causing bacteria inside pores; and to soothe redness and irritation. 
Proactiv Solution comes in 30-Day kit (P2,495) and 60-Day kit (P3,995) and is available at all Watsons nationwide