Faceless Beauty Reviews

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"How much water should I drink on a daily basis?" I asked my aesthetician. But even she couldn't answer precisely, and only gave me a general guideline to drink about 3L of water per day based on my height and weight.

Being skeptical, I googled around after reaching home, turns out there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how much water an individual should drink each day, as the amount of water needed can vary based on a number of factors, including age, sex, body weight, and physical activity level. One common guideline I've read is to drink at least 8 cups (64 ounces, about 1.7L) of water per day, which is known as the "8x8 rule" and is easy to remember. This is a good starting point, but it is important to note that individual needs may be higher or lower than this general recommendation.

So I googled more, and these are a few ways to determine how much water you should drink each day:

1. Thirst

One of the simplest ways to determine how much water you need is to listen to your body and drink water when you feel thirsty. Your body has a built-in mechanism for regulating fluid intake, and thirst is your body's way of telling you that it needs more water. This is what we experience as thirst. Drinking water when you feel thirsty is a good way to ensure that you are getting enough fluids to support your body's needs. It is important to note that thirst is not always an accurate indicator of hydration status, particularly in older adults or people who are sick, as their sense of thirst may not be as sensitive. When you feel thirsty, it is a good idea to drink a glass of water or other hydrating beverage to replenish the fluids you have lost.

2. Urine color

Another way to gauge your hydration status is to pay attention to the color of your urine. If your urine is light yellow or clear, it is a good sign that you are properly hydrated. Urine is produced by the kidneys and is a way for the body to get rid of excess fluids and waste products. The color of your urine can be affected by a number of factors, including your hydration status, the foods you eat, and the medications you take. This is because clear or pale yellow urine indicates that you are drinking enough water to flush out excess fluids and toxins from your body. If your urine is dark yellow or amber, it may be a sign that you need to drink more water. Dark urine can be a sign of dehydration, as the body is not producing enough urine to flush out excess fluids and toxins.

3. Body weight

You can also use your body weight to determine how much water you need each day. A general rule of thumb is to drink at least half of your body weight in ounces of water per day. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should aim to drink at least 75 ounces of water per day. This is because the body needs a certain amount of water to function properly, and the amount of water needed can vary based on body size. By using your body weight as a guide, you can ensure that you are getting enough water to support your body's needs. It is important to note that this is just a general guideline, and your individual water needs may be higher or lower depending on a number of factors, including your age, sex, body weight, physical activity level, and the climate in which you live.

4. Eat water-rich foods

In addition to drinking water, you can also get fluids from the foods you eat. Many fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries, are high in water content and can help to hydrate your body. Adding these types of foods to your diet can be a tasty and convenient way to increase your fluid intake. Other water-rich foods include lettuce, spinach, tomato, and citrus fruits can also be part of your diet. These types of foods can be a good choice for increasing your fluid intake, as they are low in calories and high in nutrients.

5. Drink water-based beverages

In addition to plain water, you can also get fluids from water-based beverages, such as herbal tea, sports drinks, and electrolyte-rich beverages. These types of beverages can be particularly helpful for replenishing fluids and electrolytes if you are exercising or engaging in other activities that cause you to sweat. It is important to note that some beverages, such as coffee and alcohol, can actually increase your risk of dehydration, as they have a diuretic effect and can cause your body to lose more fluids. 

Herbal teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, and ginger, can be a tasty and hydrating option. Sports drinks can also be a good choice for replenishing fluids and electrolytes, especially if you are exercising for an extended period of time or in hot or humid conditions. It is important to note that some beverages, such as coffee and alcohol, can actually increase your risk of dehydration, as they have a diuretic effect and can cause your body to lose more fluids.

6. Carry a water bottle

Keeping a water bottle with you can be a helpful way to remind yourself to drink water throughout the day. Having a water bottle handy can also make it easier to get your daily water intake, as you can take sips of water whenever you feel thirsty or need to hydrate. You can also use a water bottle to measure your water intake, as many water bottles have markings on the side that allow you to see how much water you are drinking. Carrying a water bottle can be especially useful if you are on the go or do not have easy access to a water source. You can also consider adding some fruits into your water bottle for some flavor!

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines, and the amount of water an individual needs can vary based on their individual circumstances. If you are unsure about how much water you should drink, it is a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. ^^

I've been visiting aestheticians recently for some self-care sessions, and I was informed that food would play a huge role in skincare, so I asked some questions and did some research to find out that there are certain types of foods that may not be beneficial for the health and appearance of your skin.

So here are some memo of foods that you may want to avoid or limit in your diet for healthy, radiant skin!

Processed foods 

Processed foods are foods that have been altered from their natural state in some way, such as by being canned, frozen, or packaged. These types of foods are often high in refined sugars, artificial ingredients, and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to inflammation and breakouts. Examples of processed foods include pre-packaged snacks, fast food, and frozen dinners. To promote healthy skin, it's a good idea to limit your intake of processed foods and choose whole, unprocessed foods instead. 

A review published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) found that a diet high in processed foods and refined sugars may be associated with an increased risk of acne, which can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). PIH is a type of discoloration that occurs as a result of inflammation, such as that caused by acne.

Fried foods 

Fried foods are high in unhealthy fats, such as trans fats and saturated fats, which can contribute to inflammation and clogged pores. Examples of fried foods include fried chicken, French fries, and doughnuts. To promote healthy skin, it's a good idea to limit your intake of fried foods and choose healthier cooking methods, such as baking, grilling, or sautéing.

A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that a diet high in fruits and vegetables was associated with a lower risk of uneven pigmentation or discoloration of the skin. The study found that a diet rich in carotenoids, which are plant pigments found in fruits and vegetables, was particularly protective against uneven pigmentation.

Dairy products

NaturalNews, a Japanese website found that a diet high in dairy products was associated with an increased risk of acne, where a person drinks 2 to 3 cups of milk has a 44% higher chance of getting acne, and even more with skimmed milk due to its higher content in IGF, though more research may be required.

In addition, some people may be sensitive to dairy products, which can cause inflammation and breakouts. This is because dairy products contain proteins that some people may have difficulty digesting, leading to irritation in the skin. Examples of dairy products include milk, cheese, and yogurt. If you suspect that dairy products may be causing problems for your skin, it may be helpful to try eliminating them from your diet for a period of time to see if your skin improves. You can also choose dairy alternatives, such as almond milk or soy milk, which may be better tolerated by those with sensitive skin. It's a good idea to speak with a dermatologist or a nutritionist if you have concerns about dairy and your skin.

Alcohol

A review published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that alcohol consumption was associated with an increased risk of acne. The review also found that abstaining from alcohol or limiting alcohol intake may be protective against acne.

Alcohol can dehydrate the skin and contribute to inflammation and breakouts. When you drink alcohol, your body becomes dehydrated, which can cause your skin to look dull and dry. In addition, alcohol can increase inflammation in the body, which can lead to redness and breakouts. To promote healthy skin, it's a good idea to limit your intake of alcohol and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Caffeine

A review published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that caffeine consumption was associated with an increased risk of acne. The review also found that abstaining from caffeine or limiting caffeine intake may be protective against acne. While coffee doesn't cause acne, some studies suggest it can make it worse by increasing alertness and heightening stress response in the body, which leads to having your stress hormones, such as cortisol, to increase the amount of oil produced by your sebaceous glands, meaning you can be more prone to breakouts.

Caffeine is a stimulant that is found in beverages like coffee, tea, and soda. While caffeine can provide a temporary energy boost, it can also dehydrate the skin and contribute to inflammation. When you consume caffeine, your body tends to lose more water, which can cause your skin to look dry and dull. To promote healthy skin, it's a good idea to limit your intake of caffeine and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

It's important to note that everyone's skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you're not sure which foods may be causing problems for your skin, it may be helpful to keep a food diary and note any changes in your skin after eating certain foods. You may also want to consider consulting with a dermatologist or a nutritionist for personalized advice.

In general, it's a good idea to eat a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, and to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated. This can help to support the health and appearance of your skin from the inside out as well.

I've previously written about general skincare tips that I've gathered, and now that I've learnt more, I'm writing them here!

1. Use a clay mask

Clay masks can help to absorb excess oil and clarify the pores. They work by drawing out impurities and excess oil from the skin, leaving it looking and feeling refreshed. Look for a clay mask that is formulated for oily or combination skin. You can use a clay mask once or twice a week, depending on your skin's needs. Some examples of clay masks for oily or combination skin include:

• L'Oreal Paris Pure Clay Mask in "Detox & Brighten"
• Dermalogica Charcoal Rescue Masque
• Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque

You can use a clay mask once or twice a week, depending on your skin's needs.

2. Exfoliate regularly

Exfoliating can help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can help to reduce the appearance of oily or shiny skin. There are two main types of exfoliants: physical exfoliants, which use small particles to slough off dead skin cells, and chemical exfoliants, which use ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. It's important to choose the right type of exfoliant for your skin type and concerns. For oily or combination skin, a BHA exfoliant may be a good option. However, it's important not to over-exfoliate, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. Some examples of BHA exfoliants for oily or combination skin include:

• Paula's Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant
• Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleanser
• The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

However, it's important not to over-exfoliate, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation.

3. Use a toner

A toner can help to balance the pH of the skin and remove any remaining traces of dirt and oil. It can also help to tighten and tone the skin, and prepare it for the next steps in your skincare routine. Look for a toner that is formulated for oily or combination skin. You can apply toner after cleansing and before moisturizing. Some examples of toners for oily or combination skin include:

• Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner
• Olay Regenerist Pore Sculpting Toner
• La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution

You can apply toner after cleansing and before moisturizing.

4. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer

It's important to moisturize, even if you have oily skin. A moisturizer can help to keep the skin hydrated and balanced, and can also help to improve its texture and appearance. Look for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won't clog your pores. You can apply moisturizer morning and night, after toning. Some examples of moisturizers for oily or combination skin include:

• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
• Cetaphil Oil Control Moisturizer
• Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

You can apply toner after cleansing and before moisturizing.

5. Use a facial mist

A facial mist can help to refresh and hydrate the skin, without adding any additional oils. It can be especially helpful for those with oily or combination skin, as it can help to set makeup and provide a boost of hydration throughout the day. Look for a facial mist that is formulated for oily or combination skin. You can use a facial mist anytime you need a refreshing pick-me-up, such as after cleansing, before applying makeup, or throughout the day. Simply spritz the mist onto your face and allow it to absorb into the skin. Some examples of facial mists for oily or combination skin include:

• Evian Natural Mineral Water Facial Spray
• Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater
• La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water

You can apply moisturizer morning and night, after toning.

6. Use a face oil

While it may seem counterintuitive, using a face oil can actually help to regulate oil production and improve the overall health of the skin. Face oils are rich in fatty acids and can help to nourish and moisturize the skin. Look for a face oil that is formulated for oily or combination skin. You can use a face oil at night, after cleansing and toning, or you can mix a few drops into your moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration. Some examples of face oils for oily or combination skin include:

• Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil
• Paula's Choice CLINICAL Ceramide-Enriched Firming Face Oil
• The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane

You can use a face oil at night, after cleansing and toning, or you can mix a few drops into your moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration.

By following these skincare tips, you can help to keep your oily or combination skin healthy and balanced. Remember to be consistent with your skincare routine and choose products that are suitable for your skin type to see the best results. If you're not sure which skincare products are best for your skin, it's a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or a skincare professional. They can help you create a skincare routine that works for you and your skin.

 I kept forgetting to write about the new toner I've been trying since last June! I purchased them on a sale on Shopee last year, and have been using them on almost a daily basis as a toner after facewash, and it has worked pretty fine so far!

Laneige Cream Skin Refiner - What is it?

Cream Skin Refiner by Laneige is a hydrating toner that is designed to help nourish and plump the skin. It contains ingredients like glycerin and beta-glucan to help hydrate the skin, as well as niacinamide to help improve the skin's barrier function and reduce inflammation.

Overall, Cream Skin Refiner by Laneige seems to be a good option for those looking for a hydrating toner. The inclusion of glycerin and beta-glucan can help to draw moisture into the skin and improve its texture and appearance. The addition of niacinamide can also be beneficial for those with sensitive or irritated skin, as it can help to reduce inflammation and improve the skin's barrier function.

What does the ingredients do?

While I am not a skincare professional, here are some information I've found regarding the main ingredients on Laneige Cream Skin Refiner!

Butylene glycol

Butylene glycol is a humectant and solvent that can help to improve the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. It can also help to improve the texture and feel of a product.

Glycerin

Glycerin is a humectant, which means it helps to draw moisture from the air into the skin. It can help to hydrate and plump the skin, and may also improve its texture and appearance.

Limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil

Meadowfoam seed oil is a natural oil that is rich in fatty acids. It can help to moisturize and nourish the skin, and may also help to improve its texture and appearance.

Glyceryl stearate citrate

Glyceryl stearate citrate is an emulsifying agent that can help to improve the texture and stability of a product. It can also help to moisturize and protect the skin.

Sodium stearoyl glutamate

Sodium stearoyl glutamate is a surfactant and emulsifying agent that can help to improve the texture and stability of a product. It can also help to cleanse and moisturize the skin.

How did the product feel?

On days when I have low energy, I'll just place a few drops over my palms and gently pat them over my face before bedtime. On days when I have higher energy, I would apply the product on my face with cotton sheets after shower, and wipe it across my face and neck to get rid of dead skin. While I don't think I noticed much of a difference in skin condition myself, my mother pointed out that my skin seemed to look brighter after a few weeks' usage. The product also didn't sting my skin, so I've been using it normally until both of my bottles finish.

Judging from the ingredients so far, overall, these ingredients can help to nourish and hydrate the skin, and may also help to improve its texture and appearance - which I think it would be true after a long-term usage. It's important to note, however, that skincare products can affect different people in different ways. If you have any concerns about using Cream Skin Refiner by Laneige, it's a good idea to patch test the product before using it on your entire face and to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional.

See you again next time!

Recently, my skin has been turning really dry, especially when the weather is getting really cold throughout autumn and winter when I was traveling overseas. Applying lotions doesn't feel like they work well, especially right after shower, it just feels like the moisture of the lotion gets absorbed and my skin turns dry again right after half an hour or so!

So I started looking for information online and compiled some information I found about lotions, so here are 10 types of lotions that can help to hydrate the skin, and I hope they are helpful!

Glycerin lotion: Glycerin is a humectant, which means it helps to draw moisture from the air into the skin. A lotion that contains glycerin can help to hydrate and plump the skin, and may also help to improve its texture and appearance.

1. Hyaluronic acid lotion

Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. A lotion that contains hyaluronic acid can help to deeply hydrate and plump the skin, and may also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

2. Ceramide lotion

Ceramides are lipids that help to form the skin's natural barrier and prevent moisture loss. A lotion that contains ceramides can help to strengthen the skin's barrier and lock in hydration, and may also help to improve the skin's texture and appearance.

3. Aloe vera lotion

Aloe vera is a natural plant extract that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It has hydrating and soothing properties that can help to nourish and moisturize the skin, and may also help to reduce inflammation and redness.

4. Coconut oil lotion

Coconut oil is a natural oil that is rich in fatty acids and has hydrating and nourishing properties. A lotion that contains coconut oil can help to deeply moisturize and nourish the skin, and may also help to improve its texture and appearance.

5. Vitamin E lotion

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from free radicals and environmental stressors. A lotion that contains vitamin E can help to nourish and moisturize the skin, and may also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

6. Niacinamide lotion

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that has a variety of skin benefits. It can help to improve the skin's barrier function, reduce inflammation, and improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone. A lotion that contains niacinamide can help to hydrate and nourish the skin.

7. Plant-based oil lotion

Plant-based oils, such as olive oil, avocado oil, and grapeseed oil, are rich in fatty acids and have hydrating and nourishing properties. A lotion that contains plant-based oils can help to deeply moisturize and nourish the skin, and may also help to improve its texture and appearance.

8. Colloidal oatmeal lotion

Colloidal oatmeal is a form of ground oats that has a variety of skin benefits. It can help to soothe and moisturize the skin, and may also help to reduce inflammation and redness. A lotion that contains colloidal oatmeal can be especially helpful for those with sensitive or irritated skin.

9. Peptide lotion

Peptides are small protein fragments that can help to stimulate collagen production and improve the skin's structure and elasticity. A lotion that contains peptides can help to hydrate and plump the skin, and may also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

10. Coconut oil lotion

Coconut oil is a natural oil that is rich in fatty acids and has hydrating and nourishing properties. A lotion that contains coconut oil can help to deeply moisturize and nourish the skin, and may also help to improve its texture and appearance.

These are just a few examples of lotions that can help to hydrate the skin. It's important to choose a lotion that is suitable for your skin type and any specific skin concerns you may have. If you're not sure which lotion is best for your skin, it's a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or a skincare professional. They can recommend the right products for your skin.

It's been a while since I've last written, and now that after many turns of events in life, I'm writing some information I've gathered to try out for skincare!

Skincare for combination skin can be tricky, as it tends to be oily in some areas and dry in others, and it's just difficult to know what works when it's difficult to find a balance and use the right products to properly care for your skin. Here are some general skincare tips for those with combination skin:

1. Use a gentle cleanser

Choose a cleanser that is gentle and non-irritating, as combination skin can be sensitive. Avoid harsh cleansers and scrubs, as they can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness or irritation. Look for a cleanser that is formulated for your skin type and contains ingredients like glycerin or ceramides to help moisturize the skin.

2. Exfoliate regularly

Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can help prevent breakouts. Look for a gentle exfoliator that is appropriate for your skin type. Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can lead to irritation and dryness. Look for a gentle exfoliator that is appropriate for your skin type, such as a physical exfoliator with small, smooth beads or a chemical exfoliator with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can lead to irritation and dryness.

3. Use a toner

Toner helps to balance the pH of the skin and can help to control oil production. Look for a toner that is alcohol-free, as alcohol can be drying and irritating. You can use toner after cleansing and before moisturizing to help prepare the skin for the next steps in your skincare routine.

4. Moisturize effectively, but not excessively