As a consumer these days, free shipping and free samples are the keywords to our wallet when it comes to online shopping for beauty products. In the retail world, it is equally important to know that we get more for our buck which is why Biotherm is offering FREE facials with professional specialist no less when you purchase 3 or more skincare products. There’s a $65 booking fee for the facial but you can redeem it off the skincare products you purchase.
I experienced my facial at Biotherm MYER Melbourne store and it was relaxing and well received. Before you have the image of me having a facial done at Biotherm counter, this was actually done in a dedicated private quiet room away from the hussle of the cosmetic hall. After a quick consultation about my skin condition and what I expect from this facial, we agreed to stick with a mix of Biotherm’s hydrating and brightening products. The facial lasted approximately 45 minutes, not only was my face, neck, shoulder was worked on, even my arms were thoroughly massaged as well.
Best of all, I was not RUSHED out of the room where so many facials places do; the facialist gave me all the time I needed in my case a bit of a makeup touch up (having to head to another event later that evening), hair sorting out and piling on my layers of clothes. There was no messy, greasy hair in sight and my eye makeup was left in tact!! Did I love the results? Yes! Was the service good? YES! Did my skin loved it? YES and my long-battered shoulders sigh in great relief too!
The facials are available limited time only so if you plan to restock your Biotherm products next, call first and ask about the redeemable facials to hit two birds with a stone. Now this is what I call retail therapy, complete with a whole experience for free!
My skin post facial due to having to go to an event post facial I had to keep my eye make up on . Apologies with the dim lighting.
To make a booking, please call (02) 9661 1246
So previously I have blogged about my Clear & Brilliance Laser experience and now I am sharing with you my skin pre laser and post laser sans makeup (insert horror face). At point of writing this post, I have just gotten my second laser and is approximately 5 weeks since my first laser so I can share with you how my skin went week on week and what skincare I used post laser.
My skincare prior to Clear & Brilliance Laser:
- Day: SKII Facial Essence, SKII Whitening Serum, Jurlique Sun Lotion SPF30
- Night: Alpha H Liquid Gold Skin Perfecting System
- Additional care: Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant (every 2nd day)
Skincare post laser:
- Day: Jan Marini C-Esta Cleanser, C-Esta  Serum and Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant SPF 15
- Night: Jan Marini C-Esta Cleanser, Age Intervention Retinol Plus Face Cream and Age Intervention Peptide Extreme Face Lotion
- Additional care: Jan Marini Skin Zyme Mask every 2-3 days
My main skin concerns pre laser:
- Pigmentation (existing and prevention)
- Scarring (mostly from frequent breakouts episodes)
- Pores (mostly around the nose area)
- Dullness (I am quite prone to this since I am on the pills)
- Deep neck wrinkles
Now that we have gone through the basics, my initial experience and now you get to see what happens post laser (which is very crucial and not many people has shared this part of the journey). The pictures below are taken in natural day light, first thing in the morning after cleansing prior to putting on skincare. Due to the lightning is depending on the natural day light, I have no control over the lighting effects.
Before – Pigmentation on the forehead, pores around nose and redness around nose and mouth area.
Before – Visible neck wrinkles, acne scarrings on the cheek and nose pores.
Before – Obvious pigmentation on the top of the brow, pores on the nose, overall dullness.
On the day post laser
As this is my first laser on my skin ever, my skin appeared to be very red (in fact it is the reddest my skin has ever been) and it also felt very hot. Visually, it looks like my skin had a sunburn (ala Kim Kardashian) minus the skin damage of course. The ‘hot’ feeling lasted for approximately 6 hours or so and subsided towards the night.
Apart from the ‘hotness’, I can instantly see the ‘plumped’ effect due to skin being pricked and blood circulation is being boost. Since my skin felt very raw and tender, I resorted to skipping skincare and used cold water to gently cleanse my face that night.
Right after laser – Lobster red
Right after laser – It is as hot as it looks
Right after laser – Nothing a bit of mineral makeup can’t cover up.
Post laser Day 1-3
Redness on my face subsided by Day 3 but the redness on my neck are still visible. Skin felt dry to touch (I am assuming this has to be the dead skin cells sitting on the surface level) but not tightness. I also noticed that skin care absorbs approximately 80% quicker than usual. Around Day 2 I find that my skin started to flake a little, the Jan Marini Enzyme mask really helped to remove them.
Day 7 Post laser – Redness reduced, pores around nose feels somewhat tighten. Once the dry skin were sloughed off, my skin felt softer and visibly brighter already.
Day 7 Post laser - Acne scarring reduced, neck wrinkles soften. Overall skin felt tighten.
Day 14 post laser – Overall, skin appearance looks brighter and skin tone looks even toned. Neck wrinkles are dramatically soften too.
Day 14 post laser – As you know I am plagued with regular breakout, I was breaking out on the side of my face and jawline.
 Day 14 post laser - Clearer, brighter skin!
Overall
Redness has completed subsided. Just a hint of pinkness around my neck aka wrinkles land. After couple of days of gentle exfoliations my skin is baby smooth, radiant, visibly brighter and felt tighten. Best of all? Pores look noticeably smaller due to the tightening effect and blackheads were reduced! Major love!
I will be posting updates on mu 2nd and 3rd Clear & Brillance Laser treatments with photos to compare before and after.
Two  weeks ago, I had my virginal experience with fractional laser treatment at Erase Clinic, trialling their new Clear & Brilliant Laser. Developed and produced by the same company that brought us Fraxel and Thermage.
You will need to consult a specialist prior to the treatment to ensure that you’re the right candidate for it. We agreed to start with ‘medium’ setting for my skin and ‘high’ for my neck area. Yes, that’s me sans makeup, your lucky day!
What is Clear & Briiliant Laser?Â
Is a laser that uses fractional laser technology to helps to prevent early signs of aging and the treatment has minimal downtime.  The laser energy creates millions of microscopic treatment zones in your skin, replacing damaged skin with healthy, younger looking tissue. Basically what it does is the laser gently pricks into your skin to encourage collagen production, cell renewal and increases cell turnover. Results is almost instant and you can feel/see results straight away post treatment.
 
Prior to the treatment, having my face cleansed and topical anaesthetic massaged onto my skin for 15- 20 minutes.
During treatment –  the black tube is actually a super cooling machine that blasts cool air to minimize discomfort during treatment. The laser felt like needle pricking on the skin, doesn’t hurt whatsoever but I could feel my skin instantly felt very hot. Certain areas were more uncomfortable than other areas particularly closer to the hairline and forehead. I would say the whole treatment wasn’t painful it was rather bits of discomfort. We also chatted throughout the treatment process, clearly it wasn’t hurting.
Note how red my cheek is as compared to my forehead area that hasn’t been treated.
This picture was taken immediately post treatment, see the redness around my face and neck? My skin felt really hot so it was bliss to lay under the cooling machine to ‘chill’ the skin.
What result should I expect from Clear & Brilliant Laser?Â
- Rejuvenated, fresh looking skin
- Smoother, fresher looking skin (eliminating lines/wrinkles/age spots/freckles)
- Improved tone and texture
- Natural radiance and glow
- Simply, clear + brilliant skin
How many treatments do I need?
Generally speaking, on average people will need 3  - 6 sessions 4 weeks apart depending on skin’s condition. Erase encourages to have 3 session and decide from then on if you require more or just go in for maintenance every 6 months.
Who is it for?Â
Anyone who is 25-40 years old who is experiencing first signs/first stage of aging will benefit the most from Clear & Brilliant Laser. Great for anyone who wants to maintain a younger looking skin.
It is the only laser system noted to be classified in between the less aggressive or common topical peels/solutions and the more aggressive or ablative cosmetic and laser aided treatments.
In my case: I am 27 and I did it because A) I was curious B) I have been dying to trial Laser treatment and C) It has come to the point in life that no matter what skincare product I’ve used, my skin seemed to be dull and tried looking. I needed that boost and didn’t want to go all the way with Fraxel/Thermage. Consequently, Clear & Brilliant Laser was the perfect fit for instantly rejuvenating my skin and help prevent first sign of aging for me.
Can I have Clear + Brilliant Laser if I have already had other cosmetic procedures?
Clear + Brilliant Laser may be complementary to most other cosmetic procedures like fillers, Thermage, or Botox. I had fillers and had C + B L on my nose without any issues. Always flag any concern during your consultation to ensure everything is covered.
Potential side effects (I think this is important to take note so you know what you’re up for):
- Prolonged redness (I had redness on my skin for approximately 7 days)
- Swelling (I experienced swelling for approximately 12 hours and applied ice pack couple of hours post laser)
- Blistering (N/A)
- Scarring (N/A)
- Infection (N/A)
- Pigmentary Changes (Be extremely cautious post laser to apply sunscreen as your skin can be prone to tanning)
- Acne Flare-Up (Due to skin surface layer being damaged, you need to wait for the dead skin cell to shed and if the skin renewal process goes on too slow the dead skin cell can potentially block skin and cause acne breakout)
What results can I expect to see?
The results of treatment are both immediate and progressive. A few days after the treatment, your skin will start to feel softer, look brighter, with improved tone, texture and radiance. You can expect to see:
- Naturally radiant and glowing skin
- Visibly illuminated skin tone
- Renewed, ultra-soft and smoother texture
- Skin that looks clear and brilliant
Stay tuned for my before & after treatment pictures and I will be blogging monthly updates for the next couple of months with my treatments.
Each treatment is AUD$295 and if you purchase 3 sessions, it will be AUD$1,000 and you’ll get  a set of full size Jan Marini skincare kit.
Erase Clinic is the first salon in Australia that brought in this fractional laser and is also the only salon in Victoria that has it.
Before I start my praises with Oscar Oscar Salon, let me indulge you in with my little hair salon story. I am your typical loyal customer and once I’ve found ‘the’ hairdresser I rarely go to anyone else. To date, I have been with Sally at SUI Salon for the past 7 and a half years,  have followed her from a previous salon when she changed jobs and even have moved my schedule around just to accommodate her days off so I can make sure my hair gets done by her.
We have a very unique relationship because we don’t communicate (She’s Korean and don’t speak much English). I’d just tell her I want something “different”, “lighter shade/darker shade”, Â ”trim/cut” and “curly/wavy”. Those words pretty much sums up what I’d usually go for with my hairdresser. Strange enough, she always gets it and will tell me if it’s either not a good look for me or she’d just work her magic.
Throughout the years of blogging, I have my fair share of “free experiences” with salons* but to be honest, I rarely walk out of them feeling 100% satisfied like how I would walk out of SUI feeling a million bucks. That is why, til this day I pay full amount to get my hair done at SUI instead of some sponsored salon and have personally recommended so many people to get their hair done at SUI.
So when my #MBBE girls insisted that I must try out Jacky from Oscar Oscar Salon, Chadstone; my initial reaction was meh, he probably won’t get my Asian hair. After approximately 20 tweets of encouragements later, I was ready to give it a go for a blow dry to try things out (TIP: If you’re trialling out a new salon, go for a blow dry prior to any massive change like cut/colour).
After a thorough hair consultation, yummy complimentary Aveda tea, hair wash, treatment, head massage, hand massage and curling action with Cloud 9 straightener later. I walked away looking like this.
Needless to say, I was impressed with the service and the blow dry and will book in for a cut (with Jacky) and colour (with Nathan) in 2 weeks time, just in time for #MBBE 2011.
One for the back! Â What do you think?
Right after the blow dry with Jacky Chan.
* Except for Barney Martin at Surry Hill, Sydney. I can’t afford to fly up to get my hair done by the genius every month.
Last month, I was fortunate enough to be invited to experience Allison Browning Therapies’ facial and body treatment. Allison Browning who is the face and hands of Allison Browning Therapies has been working as Adorebeauty’s expert skin adviser and brow sculpting/colouring for over 6 years. Recently, she’s moved out to start her own business specialising in brows, microdermabration-facials and body massage treatments.
 This discreet Brunswick East location is perfect for both male and female clients who can just jump onto a car and drive off post treatment. I had the chance to experience Allison’s signature Microdermabrasion-Facial Treatment (AUD $150) that incorporates an intense deep cleansing of skin surface cell by vacuuming dead skin cells, unclog pores for baby smooth skin finish and an extraction facial straight after the microdermabration.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the intense smooth sensation after the microdermabration (doesn’t hurt by the way); the post extraction redness/soreness wasn’t what I was anticipating after a facial. To be fair, I happen to arrive to the facial at the height of my stress level which resulted in massive acne breakout. Consequently, I had more acne to be removed hence more redness and scarring post extractions. (Note: Allison did recommended Vitamin C skincare  products for aftercare, which dramatically reduced redness and speed up the healing process.)
A shot of the microderm filter that was used on my skin and the white gunk are my dead skin cell, white heads and build up. Gross much? So glad they were all vacuumed off my face.
Post Microdermabration Facial, Allison spoilt me with a Neck & Body massage. Having done years of energy work training, Allison bring this into her massages and treats each body and the stress it holds in an individual way. By far, it was hands down the best body massage I have experienced in Australia. Definitely wish it lasted forever.
In the end, I was also given a bottle of Stress Relief Bach Flower Therapy (a remedy with 5 of the flower essences combined) to help with my stress level.
Overall, I recommend Allison if:
- you prefer having your treatments in a discreet location
- you want your brows to be tamed or shape non existing brows
- you like a therapist that is a wealth of knowledge that is able to help with your skin concern
- a therapist who doesn’t push products down your throat (they carry ASAP & Medik8 skincare products by the way)
- your body needs a deep massage (you will know the level of awesomeness of this massage as soon as her hand touches your back)
For more updates about Allison Browning Therapies, do visit their Facebook page.
Bookings line: 0413 559 177
In preparation of #ABBW, I got my lash extensioned by the professionals at Xtreme Lashes – a company started by three sisters some 7 years ago. Previously I have had quite a few lash extensions in few random Asian salons but didn’t particularly like the results. They were either too gloopy or drag my already straight and downward lashes even straighter.
After getting my sparse lashes consulted, we proceed to get the natural but defined and volumised lash result. The aim is to get 60-80 lashes onto each of my eyes. Let the results speak for itself.
This is my usual lashes and this is with the help of constant use of lash growth serums.
Two hours later, lush, natural looking but volumised lashes is mine for the next two months.
While the process is a little long but I must say the results is worth the time. On top of that I get to save myself from curling my lashes and applying mascara daily. I guess the most important thing for me is to have lashes custom fit for my eye shape my lash requirements and what suits me best. After the extension it felt so lightweight and couple hours in I almost forgotten that there are lash extension on my lashes.
During the 2 hours process I took this opportunity to bombard as many questions and myths to poor Jess who is trying to concentrate and glue the lashes one by one onto my lashes. I thought I’d share with you dear readers with some of the things when considering lash extensions:
- Myth: Lash extension is bad for your lashes. This is not true at all. If it was, do you think so many businesses are still running and blooming? The only time lash extension can be bad for you is when it is applied poorly. Eg: lashes that are too long/heavy being applied on weak and fragile lashes. Each individuals have different lashes and they should first get consulted if they are suitable for lash extension then proceed to use a range of different length lashes to create the natural lash contour customised by individuals.
- If you’re in the market for lash extension always ask how long the process will take and how many lashes will be glued to your lashes. The reason why Xtreme Lashes pride on their services is because they don’t rush clients out the door by taking the short cut of applying 20-40 lashes and be done within 30-40 mins. Instead, mine took 60-80 lashes and lasted 2 hours. Obviously, quality of lashes and service counts for longevity.
- AFTERCARE is crucial. Too many salons that I have visited would get the job done and show you the door without being detail about aftercare. This will make or break your lash extension experience because obviously if you do not know how to take care of it, it won’t last the mile. Xtreme Lashes provides home care to ensure lashes last as long as possible and offer free refill after initial extension.
- Remember knowledge is key. If you get lashes done and know how to take care of them, it will be the best investment you’ve done on your appearance AND time.
FACT: The side that you sleep on often have shorter lashes. Argh, I am training myself to sleep on my back at the moment by putting pillows around both sides.
A full lash extension experience will be approximately AUD$180.
Will I do it again? You bet I will. #MBBE also need awesome fluttery lashes.
To find your nearest lash stylist click here.
Couple of weeks ago, I got to experience Jurlique Aromatherapy Facial (AUD$105), it lasted for 60 mins. Little did I know Jurlique does facials in their stores and they offer a range of facials (30 mins, 60 mins and 90 mins options) and body massage treatments. There’s one facial cater for everyone’s needs from express to luxurious.
The Aromatherapy Facial is also Jurlique’s signature facial targeting each individual skin needs and have a customised facial to target skin’s specific needs. I find the whole experience quite traditional, so it’s all about back to basics with Jurlique using Jurlique skincare products but I thoroughly loved the sensory and the relaxed, tranquil atmosphere. I left the facial with nice glowy skin with no grease or overtly oily hair.
What I like about the experience:
- Love how it comes with hair net to keep hair away from oil
- Heated bed, enough said
- Sensory therapy that keeps the whole experience smelling amazing
- Complimentary hand massage while my mask is being set on my skin
Products that was used for my experience (my skin is combination oily and prone to acne):
- Purifying Cleansing Lotion
- Purely White Skin Brightening Cleanser
- Purely White Skin Brightening Mist
- Citrus Purifying Mist
- Rosewater Balancing Mist
- Herbal Recovery Gel
- Calendula Cream
- Purely Age-Defying Refining Treatment
- Moisture Replenishing Mask
- Rose Hand Cream
It is recommended to have best results for your skin with 4-6 weekly facial treatments and the daily use of Jurlique skin care ritual. I will also be blogging about a few Jurlique product review in the near future.
Last year, I went for my first dermal filler experience but I did not use up all 2 ml of my dosage so I went back recently to get the rest of the Restylane SubQ injected onto the tip of my nose. A little more on Restylane SubQ, it is a form of stabilized Hyaluronic Acid.
From the box:
Restylane SubQ is a clear, transparent and viscous gel. It is a unique form of non-animal hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural polysaccharide that occurs as an important structural element in the skin and in subcutaneous and connective tissues as well as in the synovial tissue and fluid. Hyaluronic acid belongs to a group of very few substances that are identical in all living organisms.
SubQ acts by adding volume to the tissue, thereby supporting the overlying (dermal) tissue to shape the contours of the face, to the desired level of correction. It is intended to be used for facial tissue augmentation (recommended to use on nose, cheeks and chin).
This photo was taken straight after the local anesthetic injections. The plastic surgeon injected the local inside the top of my mouth where the gum bits are and the tip of my nose. Hence the blood spot on my nose. This process immediately puffed up my nose and shrink my blood vessel to avoid any injection hitting the blood vessels later and causing ugly bruises. I was left alone for roughly 5 minutes for the effect to kick in, during which I could barely move the bottom half of my face.
I chose not to pick a picture of the actual procedure because it looks pretty gory. Anyway, the filler felt like it was all over in 60 seconds. Here is an after picture and the surgeon is molding the tip of my nose. To be honest, I walked into the room preparing myself for the worst pain in my life (I have been told that the tip of the nose has more nerves and is more sensitive to pain) but boy am I surprised that second time around it wasn’t actually as painful as I have anticipated. I suppose the needle that was used is smaller this time around and the local anesthetic applied was done in a way to maximize the effect and to minimize the pain.
This was the after shot, all done in 2 minutes. The whole process was certainly uncomfortable and a little painful. Definitely bearable!
I went straight back to work after this.
Here is the before and after shot. As I have only touched up very tiny bit on the tip of my nose it isn’t crazily obvious (my novice photograph taking skill isn’t helping either) but it is enough to make a difference by elongating my nose ever so slightly, the way I wanted it to be.
