Hello, guys! How are you? I grabbed this Yoko Whitening Spa Salt on a whim when I was out shopping in a supermarket. Salt scrubs are an off/on staple in our bathroom but I haven't tried this brand yet nor have I seen a salt scrub that specifically targets the armpit and bikini area. I'm on a quest to transform my dark pits, so for you girls like me, here's my review!

About the Product

WHAT: Yoko Whitening Spa Salt For Armpit & Bikini Area

PRICE: 39 PHP at Unitop

Product Description:
Whitening Spa Salt enriched with Vitamin E and natural herbal extracts. It can remove dirt deposits and dead skin cells from the armpit and bikini area effectively giving you a new radiant skin, feeling clean and soft, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkly skin. Dramatically effective for your Armpit and Bikini area within 7 days.

Directions:
Pour spa salt on your hand, rub gently in circular motion on wet skin, leave it on your skin for 3 minutes and then rinse off with clean water.After use, you can feel your skin's softness and  smoothness.

Ingredients:
Sodium Chloride, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Acanthus Ebracteatus Vahl Powder, Fragrance, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Curcuma Longa Powder, Rhinacanthus Nasutus Powder, Andrograhis Paniculata Powder, Sapindus Mukurossi Powder, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), CI 14720, CI 19140, CI 42090

Salt is, of course, the first in the ingredients list. There's glycerin and olive oil for moisture plus powders from plant extracts. Niacinamide is the whitening ingredient while Vitamin E is there as an antioxidant and skin conditioner.

My Experience

The salt scrub comes in a 220g resealable plastic pouch. The salt inside is yellowish in color - it looks like brown sugar but much finer in texture.

I love the smell of the salt. I can detect something floral and something ginger-ish in it so I looked up the scientific names and learned that the scrub contains jasmine and turmeric. Hmmm, that explains the scent and why the scrub is yellow!

If you're worried about staining, no need to worry because the scrub does not stain my skin (or the bathroom tiles) and can be easily washed away.

before and after dissolving it in water

I wash myself first with a shower gel or soap and apply the scrub on damp skin. Make sure your skin is just damp and not sopping wet because the product will melt easily. Also, don't use on open wounds because this will hurt a lot. Remember, the scrub is basically salt. Lol.

The armpits and the bikini area have thinner skin than the rest of our body so I use very gentle circular motions when rubbing the scrub. The salt is fine but it has enough abrasiveness so you don't need to apply force.

Impressions

I use this product every other day and at the time of writing, I am on my second week of use.

It's an effective exfoliant - my skin feel super soft whenever I use this. It's also great in removing deodorant residue since my underarms look a lot clearer than before although I haven't seen significant whitening results yet. So far, I'm happy with the product and will continue using it. Will update this post once I empty the pouch.

Have you tried this product? What are your kili-kili whitening secrets? Let me know!

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Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. This review is based on my own experience and opinions. What works for me may not work for you and vice versa.

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Hi, guys! Last December, I availed Sample Room's latest offerings from Gluta-C. The brand introduced two new products to their Kojic Plus line - the Shower Salt Scrub and the Acne Control Toner. According to them, their Kojic Plus line will effectively deliver 4x skin whitening action using the combined powers of Glutathione, Vitamin C, Kojic Acid, and Azelaoyl Diglycinate.

I haven't used the toner yet but I have already emptied my Shower Salt Scrub. Here's my thoughts about it!

ABOUT THE SHOWER SALT SCRUB

WHAT: Gluta-C Kojic Plus+ Shower Salt Scrub, 250g
PRICE & WHERE: PHP 164.75 and it's available in all leading supermarkets and drugstores.
Got mine free from SampleRoom PH.

Product Description:
Gluta-C Kojic Plus+ Shower Salt Scrub has 4x skin whitening action that combines the power of Glutathione, Vitamin C, Kojic Acid, and Azelaoyl Diglycinate for a more holistic skin whitening regimen. It gently yet effectively exfoliates to remove dead skin cells without causing dryness for that younger smoother skin and provides a cooling scent for a refreshed feeling.

How to Use:
Apply and massage gently to whole body, targeting dark and rough areas. Rinse with water. Use regularly. For best results, complete your skin regimen with Gluta-C Kojic Plus+ Face and Body Soap and Body Lotion with SPF 30.

Ingredients List:

Sodium Chloride, Glycerin, Betaine, Water, Butylene Glycol, Arbutin, Citric Acid, Sodium Sulfite, Acetyl Tyrosine, Saxifraga Sarmentosa Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Glutathione, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Niacinamide, Fragrance, Benzophenone-4, Papain, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Glycolic Acid, Kojic Acid, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Menthol, Menthyl Lactate, CI 15850, CI 19140.

Aside from the 4 whitening ingredients mentioned, the scrub also contains other well-known whitening ingredients like arbutin and niacinamide. It also has exfoliators like Papain and Glycolic Acid to help remove dead skin cells for a healthy, glowing skin. There are also moisturizers like glycerin, betaine and butylene glycol to help reduce dryness. Here's the Cosdna analysis of the ingredients. They say the scrub is suitable for all skin types but as always, patch test first and don't use if you are allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients.

MY EXPERIENCE

the product is protected by this foil/cardboard seal

This sat in my closet for a while and when I finally opened the container, I can see that the liquid has separated from the salt. The formulation needs to be improved because the salt would settle at the bottom after a short while. After one week, I have to mix it again before I can use it.

The tub has a wide mouth so you can dip your fingers (even your whole hand if you want) but I prefer using a spoon to keep it sanitary.

before and after mixing

After mixing, the scrub has a runny consistency. It is super easy to spread plus the salt in the scrub doesn't melt easily. I was able to soak my skin and exfoliate to my heart's content. The scent is really lovely - it smells strongly of citrus and I really, totally dig it! It is calming and relaxing for me. The fragrance is quite strong so this may not be for you if you have a sensitive nose.

consistency

The product is described as cooling but I was not so sure about that during the first few times I've used it. It would initially feel hot after application. After about 5 minutes, the hotness would be replaced by a cooling sensation. I'm guessing it's because of the menthol? If you wanna experience the cooling sensation, make sure to leave this on your skin for 5+ minutes!

RESULTS

The tub lasted me 2 months. I haven't observed whitening effects but I guess that's understandable since I only use it once a week. If you want to take advantage of its whitening powers, you definitely need to use it 2-3 times a week.

I still think this is a great exfoliating scrub. My skin always get so soft and smooth after rinsing it off! Overall, the exfoliating and moisturizing effects are enough for me to buy this again. The 250g tub is only P164.75 (fair price if you ask me) and it is available at all leading drugstores nationwide.

Have you tried this? Let me know about your favorite scrubs!

Check out SampleRoom to try products like this for free!
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Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. This review is based on my own experience and opinions. What works for me may not work for you and vice versa.

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What: Skinfood Avocado & Sugar Lip Scrub 14g
Price: 5,900 KRW

Today, I'm gonna review this adorable lip scrub from Skinfood. This is included in my Althea Superfood Box.

About Skinfood

I am not familiar with the Skinfood brand but apparently, they believe that nutritious food yields healthy, beautiful skin. That's true but Skinfood takes it further by making all their products food-based (think ingredients like black sugar, berries, honey and salmon, etc). They use sustainably grown ingredients too so that's another plus in my book. Skinfood has several branches in the Philippines (list) but they currently don't have any stores near me. *sigh*

Packaging

The avocado scrub came in this simple pink plastic wrapper. The manufacture date (제조) is written on the front and as you can see, the scrub I got is made on October 19, 2016. I assume 2019 is the expiry date. Of course, keep in mind that the expiry will change once the product is opened. I usually keep lip treatment products up to a year.

the back of the plastic wrapper in case you're wondering

The Avocado Scrub Itself

look at this cute avocado

It is the shape and size of a small egg but the base is flat

at the base, the brand & product name is written in hangul
the manufacturing date and expiry are also printed (sorry for the cat hairs lol)

The lip scrub is inside the 'seed' of the avocado. So cute!

I can't read the ingredients on the plastic wrapper this came with, but judging from the product name (and shape) alone, this scrub is made of avocado and sugar. I mean, obviously!

It is kinda like a paste.

Most sugar scrubs are very gritty but this avocado scrub has a very fine texture.

My Experience

screencap grabbed from Althea Skinfood box page

I followed the instructions detailed above as much as I can.

I applied as evenly as I can but the sugar bunches up when you put too much. I let it sit for a few minutes to soften dead skin cells and then I massage it all around to exfoliate. You can rinse it off with water but I prefer to just wipe off the residue with a tissue. Voila! Very soft lips achieved! Note that lips can also be over exfoliated so do this no more than 1-3 times a week!

Worth it?

Sugar scrubs can be easily DIY'ed but if you don't want to do the mix & match, this is an already-made product that really works!

This item is kinda hard to find though. I got this from Althea's Superfood box but it is currently not listed in their Althea PH website. I am not sure if Skinfood's physical stores carry this item since I don't have any near me. If you really, truly, badly want to try this, I guess it's best to check out their stores first or try online websites that sell Korean products like Jolse/Testerkorea.

That's it for this review. Hope this helped!

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Skin Genie Black Mallows Fluffy Scrub 100g (150PHP)

Skin Genie is a local brand offering whitening and anti-aging products. They claim all their products are safe, gentle, all-natural and suitable even for sensitive skin. I haven't heard of this brand before but I am all for discovering new stuff, even more so if they're locally made. #supportlocal, amirite ;-)

You can get the scrub in two sizes: 450 Php for the 250g jar or 850 Php for 500g. The scrub is also available in a 100g bag for 150 PHP but I think this is a limited size. The Skin Genie Black Mallows Fluffy Scrub I have is included in my October 2016's Saladbox (read my unboxing here). Props to Saladbox for introducing this to me because #spoiler, never have I loved a body scrub as much as I love this!

About Black Mallows Fluffy Scrub

every scrub is cutely shaped and looks like a delectable choco crinkle <3

Product description: Chosen carefully, these power-packed scrub has the ability to nourish, rejuvenate the skin and gives plenty exfoliation.

Ingredients:

• Forbidden Rice - Rich in antioxidants, forbidden rice is a potent source of skin-loving antioxidants and Vitamin E. It contains antioxidants and protein that help maintain skin firmness and restore elasticity. 
• Activated Charcoal - It acts like a magnet to attract and absorb dirt and oil. When dirt and oil in your pores come in contact with Activated Charcoal, they stick to it and then get washed away when you rinse.
• Niacinamide - is a powerhouse ingredient. It can help firm, reduce signs of aging, reduce hyperpigmentation, and prevent moisture loss.
• Rolled Oats - Oatmeal can help remove dead skin cells and soak up oil, acting as a natural remedy to acne It can provide soothing relief from sunburn, poison ivy, and other irritations, and can heal skin and open pores.
• Cranberry and Apricot Beads - Smoothly removes the cells of dead skin and the blackheads, unblock the pores, and clean the skin gently. It triggers the growth of fresh cells.
• Grapeseed - Can provide protection against sun damage. It has astringent properties and therefore, can tighten the skin. The linoleic acid found in grapeseed oil can be very beneficial in skin conditions like, acne, dermatitis and eczema. Linoleic acid can soothe and nourish the skin, and help it to repair. 
• Sodium Bicarbonate - Can be used to correct the skin’s pH balance, it is a natural antibiotic that cures the underlying fungal infections. Sodium Bicarbonate can also slowly erase acne scars and speed the healing of acne damage.

Instructions:

Begin with wet skin in the shower—warm-to-hot water is ideal to soften the skin. Apply the Black Mallows Fluffy Scrub in a circular motion. For around 10 to 15 minutes, leave the scrub and give enough time to open up the pores. This will also allow the ingredients to penetrate your skin. Rinse and pat dry.

My Experience

I mentioned in my unboxing article that I'm impressed with this because this is such an innovative idea. It looks like marshmallows but it melts when soaked with water. Normal scrubs are potentially unsanitary because you have to scoop them out of a jar. In contrast, the Black Mallows are all separate, just take one and break off what you need.

pic taken immediately after dissolving the scrub on my arm

Speaking of quantity, the 100g pack I got contained only 4 marshmallow scrubs. Don't worry because a piece can seriously go a long way.  I'm generous in application, so I usually use about half. Even a quarter is enough to cover the whole body.

This mallow scrub smells very pleasant. I am reminded of lakatan mixed with tutti-frutti flavor whenever I use this. The scent is not annoying at all.

Close-up of the cranberry and apricot beads. I left it for about 10 minutes like the instruction said

After dissolving the scrub on my face and body, I let it sit for a while. The greyish suds got clear after a few minutes leaving the cranberry and apricot beads behind. There are also some rice grains in the mix. When I thought enough time has passed, I rubbed the beads again to remove any remaining dead skin cells.

Be gentle on the face though, the beads can be rough if you use force. Don't go gaga over exfoliating and remember, once or twice a week is enough. After scrubbing, I added a little bit of water to get suds. This can be used as a soap too. Amazing, right? Lastly, I finally rinsed off everything.

Voila! So soft and smooth!

I expected my skin to become red from all the rubbing I did, but no, it did not. My skin feels new - very soft and nice to touch, even the elbows!. The scrub is moisturizing too. I didn't feel the need to apply lotion after. To sum everything up, here's a list of Black Mallows' pros and cons:

Pros
-Sanitary, just break off a piece you want to use
-Easy to use
-Has lots of beads for that exfoliating power
-Lathers up and can be used as soap
-A jar of this scrub will last forever
-Pleasant smell, the scent is not annoying at all

Cons

-A bit messy in the bathroom, there are lots of beads!

-The exfoliating beads can be rough on face

-Time consuming

-You need to keep these away from children, it looks so good to eat!

Will I buy this again?

Isn't it obvious yet? Haha. Yes, I'll repurchase this again. I think this product is worth it and I sincerely recommend everyone to try this. Hope this review helped.

Check out Skin Genie: Facebook, Instagram

Check out my own social media: Twitter, Instagram

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. Any judgment given is entirely my own honest and unbiased opinion.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Update: 

Skin Genie has an ongoing Holiday Sale where most of the items are 50% off til January 15! I got the 250g jar for only 225 PHP! *heart eyes*

Black Mallows Fluffy Scrub, 250g jar 

The jar is not heavy since it's only 250g but it has a handle for easy carrying

The Black Mallow scrubs inside are all rectangular and thinner than the ones in the pouch.
Same functionality though!

Anyway, that's it for my update! See you in the next blog!

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Adrenaline Neuraw Scrub (Lemon), 250g

Product Description:

Adrenaline Neuraw Scrub is packed with Vitamin C to feed your skin only the good stuff and keep the bad stuff out. Contains anti-microbial properties to help absorb impurities from the skin and moisturize. Keeps skin hydrated and clear as it can. Excellent in lightening old scars such as old insect wounds!

The scrub came in a very simple resealable clear plastic pouch. The product name, weight and Rraw's website is printed in the front but other than that, there is no other information available. I like the minimalist design but I do wish they also included the ingredients and instructions.

Price and Where I got It

If you haven't heard of them yet, Rraw is a local company offering organic products ranging from soap bars, body scrubs, lip tints, face masks and a whole lot more! They guarantee all their products are made using only wild and fresh ingredients.

Their Neuraw body scrub can be bought for only Php 129.00 (originally Php 299) at Rraw PH's website. Neuraw is available in different versions and you can choose among the following: Endorphin (Vanilla), Dopamine (Strawberry), Serotonin (Cocoa), Melatonin (Pandan), and Adrenaline (Lemon).

I chose Adrenaline (direct product link) because I like lemons and because Rraw claims this is good for lightening dark spots and old scars like insect wounds.  I got mine as part of the Noël Christmas gift set for Php 549.00 (You can read my Noël unboxing here).

Ingredients List

screenshot taken from Adrenaline's product page

All the ingredients look innocent and no harmful chemicals are included. I have some qualms about the oils but we'll get to that later.

How to Use 

screenshot taken from Adrenaline's product page

My Experience

close up of the sugar scrub

First of all, this looks like it will be a good exfoliator because of the large uneven grains of sugar and salt. I applied this over clean, slightly wet skin, after cleansing with body wash. This is face-friendly, according to Rraw.

I followed the instructions above and rubbed in a circular motion, focusing more on dry areas like my elbows, knees and ankles. The sugar and salt melted away leaving the oils and tiny little pieces of lemon bits in my skin. After that, I let it sit for 5 minutes then I rinsed it all off.

Results

This product is certainly effective as a scrub plus the coconut and olive oils act as natural moisturizers. Didn't use lotion or any moisturizers afterward because my skin is baby-soft and so smooth after using this!

Now, remember my qualms about the oils? I'm still trying to find my holy grail products but I know my skin well enough to know that any oil-based products left on my face will lead to breakouts. Whenever I use such products, I make sure to wash it off with a foam cleanser. This time, I threw caution to the wind - I used the scrub on my face, didn't wash the oils off with another cleanser and left my skin as it is. As expected, I broke out the next morning. :(

If you have combination/oily skin like me, I think it would be wise to use this scrub only on your body, not the face. (Disclaimer here: every one of us are different. What works for me may not work for you, and vice versa.)

I didn't see any notable lightening results as well but I think that is quite understandable since I only use this not more than once a week.

Product left at the time of publishing this blog

Here is a summary of Adrenaline Neuraw's Pros and Cons:

Pros

• All organic materials
• No harmful ingredients
• Made my skin so soft and smooth
• Did its job well
• 250g lasted long

Cons

• Leaves a slight greasy feeling
• No significant lightening results
• Not for facial use (at least for me)
• You can try to DIY this at home for lesser cost

Will I repurchase?

Hmmmm, probably not. Rraw has a wide variety of scrubs that look great so I will probably try those the next time I do a haul from them (I'm eyeing the coffee and charcoal scrubs).

Anyway, that's it for my review! I hope this helped.

Check out RRAWPH: Website, Facebook, Instagram

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Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. Any judgment given is entirely my own honest and unbiased opinion.

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