Aritaum Tips on Taking Care of 20s Skin.

Most skin care experts say that the best time to start a consistent beauty routine is in your 20s, which is probably because the skin’s renewal process start to decline as early as age 25, and may even happen sooner if you have poor lifestyle habits that aggravate free radical damage. Your 20s is the best time to start using skin care products like Aritaum.

Aritaum Flagship Store in Gangnam.

Here’s a comprehensive guide about taking care of your 20s skin that you can easily incorporate into your daily routines:

1. Start exfoliating regularly.
Exfoliation speeds up skin renewal by facilitating the removal of dead skin cell layers more efficiently to reveal new skin layers underneath. Sluggish skin renewal is the main cause for dull looking skin and pigmentation (e.g. dark spots), and our skin’s natural cellular regeneration process begins to decline gradually starting at age 25. Furthermore, premature skin aging may be aggravated by factors like stress, environmental pollution, and bad lifestyle habits that can make your skin look older than it's supposed to.

Exfoliation also helps unclog pores, smoothen skin, and prevent future breakouts. Choose mild exfoliators like acid-based ones containing alpha-hydroxy acids, salicylic, and/or glycolic acid. Acid-based exfoliators are not abrasive yet effectively remove dead skin cells from within.

Laneige Clear-C Peeling Mask.

2. Prioritize sun protection.
The sun’s UVA and UVB rays cause a lot of skin damage. In fact, people who are regularly exposed to the sun develop premature signs of skin aging like wrinkles and dark spots than those who don’t. However, most people aren’t concerned about using sun protection products.

Your 20s is a great time to begin using sunscreen in your regimen daily. You can prevent a lot of skin care issues in the future just by prioritizing sun protection. Choose a sunscreen that has at least 35 SPF (sun protection factor) and protects against both UVA and UVB rays (broad spectrum protection), as most sunscreen products may not protect against both UV ray types. Wear sunscreen daily all over your face and body, and leave on skin for at least 30 minutes before going out.

Mamonde Everyday Aqua Sun Cream.

3. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise.
Diet and exercise are non-negotiables are you want to maintain good health and vibrant skin. Sticking to a healthy diet and having regular exercise in your 20s gives you an edge amongst the average population and will surely give you huge incredible benefits you can reap in the future. A sound diet and exercise regimen in your early 20s is the best investment you can get for your health, beauty and even money down the line.

4. Find the right cleanser.
Many teenagers who’ve experienced oily and acne-prone skin may have been used to using strong cleansers, astringents, and skin care practices that can strip your skin of its natural oils and moisture. Once you reach your 20s, however, your hormones are beginning to be more stabilized. Thus, it's also important to begin switching to milder cleansers right for your skin type and begin concentrating on skin hydration and nourishment.

An array of cleansers at an Aritaum store.

5. Adapt your skin care routine to the season.
Just as your hormones begin stabilizing in your 20s, it’s also advisable to begin adapting your skin care routines according to the season. Use lightweight, water-based, or oil-free formulas during warmer seasons to prevent excess oil production and breakouts, and use creamier formulations during the colder months to prevent skin dehydration and dryness. Adjusting your skin care products according to the season puts less stress on your skin and help you adjust to environmental stressors better.

Aritaum Baby Face Mist.

6. Try adding retinol into your regimen.
Retinol is a popular skin care ingredient because it functions both as an anti-ager and for controlling acne. Your 20s is a good time for incorporating retinol into your regimen, as you may still be coming off your acne-riddled young adult days and transitioning into an older adult facing risks of skin aging.

7. Consider anti-aging products.
It is actually never too early to control skin aging by using anti-aging beauty products. Your 20s is an excellent time to begin introducing anti-aging products in your regimen, as your 20s skin is still good at absorbing nutrients and renewing skin cells. When buying anti-aging products, opt for ones loaded with Vitamin C and antioxidants, since these actives deal best with fighting free radical damage, oxidative stress, and UV damage.

More skincare products from Aritaum.

Your 20s is an excellent time for starting health and skin care regimens that will pay off greatly in the future. Take care of your 20s skin by adopting these habits, using products like Aritaum and being confident in maintaining that youthful-looking glow well into your 20s and beyond.

Spotlight | Althea Milk Peel Cream Mask.

It hasn't been long since Althea launched their own brand of sunscreen, and now they're back in the spotlight once again with another new product. Althea is on a roll these days when it comes to developing and launching new products, and it's such a delight to be able to try, test, and share my experience with each new item that they bring forth.

That being said, here's what I think about the Milk Peel Cream Mask, the latest addition to Althea's growing family.

Althea Milk Peel Cream Mask.

The Althea Milk Peel Cream Mask is a gentle peeling mask that promises to give your skin a 'big gulp of hydration' and 'refreshed complexion'. It combines the power of AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) with the gentle formulation of milk to slough away dead skin cells, unclog pores, and moisturize the skin. It also contains kaolin, a naturally occurring clay mineral that has long been heralded for its ability to detoxify, cleanse, and soothe even the most sensitive skin.

Nothing much to read here so I had to look up all the pertinent information on the internet, lol.

As with the other Althea products, the Milk Peel Cream Mask has a simple, minimalist packaging. It comes in a 50 mL pump bottle housed in a white box with hardly any English text on it. I had to look up all the pertinent information on the internet because hey, that's what Google is for (lol). At least I knew beforehand that this is a wash-off mask (not a peel-off mask as I originally thought it was) and it's tested by dermatologists, as indicated on the box.

Got milk? :)

Pump bottle.

To use, simply apply an even layer onto damp skin and leave it on for 30-60 seconds before rinsing it off with warm water. You get a creamy clay texture as you pump the product out of the bottle, but as you slather it on your skin, it transforms into a bubbly foam. That tingling, ticklish sensation that I felt as the product turns into a foamy lather reminded me of the Bubi Bubi Lip Bubble Lip Scrub, which I use to exfoliate my lips. Its mild, powdery scent, on the other hand, reminded me of the baby cologne that my son currently uses.

Creamy clay texture.

My skin feels really smooth and clean - bouncy, even - after every use. I don't apply this on a daily basis, though, as my skin tends to be dry during this time of the year and the last thing I should be doing is over-exfoliating my skin. I use the Althea Milk Peel Cream Mask twice a week at the most, but if your pores need a bit more unclogging, you can use this product thrice a week. This product is ideal for all skin types, even for those with sensitive skin.

Bubbly! 

The Althea Milk Peel Cream Mask retails for Php 490 and is exclusively available at the Althea website. For a limited time, you can get free shipping on all Althea exclusives using the code PBSHIP at checkout. In addition, you can get a 20% discount on your first order using my referral code.

Say hello to my new hair! :)

And yes, I finally had the chance to change my hairstyle, just in time for my birthday. Speaking of which, thank you Althea for my birthday gift! You guys are so generous that I have more than enough Reward Points on my account to splurge on skincare with! :)

Spotlight | The Cellin Facial Peeling Essence.

For years, I had been a loyal user of Cure Natural Aqua Gel - one of Japan's most popular skincare products. It's a gommage exfoliator made of 90% hydrogen water, and a cult favorite product in Japan. Exfoliating at least once or twice a week has always been a part of my exhaustive skincare routine, and Cure had always been my go-to brand.

It wasn't until my most recent trip to South Korea when I discovered a cheaper alternative to the Cure Natural Aqua Gel that's equally, if not more potent.

The Cellin Facial Peeling Essence.

Enter The Ceelin Facial Peeling Essence, from the same company that manufactures and distributes the Essence Cushion and Honey Soap which I have previously raved about in this blog. It's a cleansing agent that sloughs away dead skin and dislodges sebum from the pores without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.

It sloughs away dead skin cells, hence the term 'Peeling'.

It's made with fig extract, which is rich in nutrients such as vitamins B and C, phosphorus, and potassium - all essential for boosting and rejuvenating the skin's health. Figs also contain active enzymes which deeply penetrates into the skin to remove layers of dead skin cells and clear sebum-clogged pores.

The tube has an English translation of the product information + usage directions.

Same goes for the back of the box.

The Cellin Facial Peeling Essence also contains natural plant ingredients such as Ulmus davidiana root extract which has anti-inflammatory and photoprotective properties; Centella asiatica which is rich in amino acids and helps improve skin elasticity; Ulmus rubra (slippery elm) extract which eliminates free radicals from the skin; and Amaranth seed extract, known for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties as it contains the highest concentration of plant-derived squalene.

Still sealed.

To use this product, you must 1) first remove all the makeup from your face, cleanse as you normally would, and then pat your face dry. 2) Squeeze a nickel-sized amount of the Peeling Essence onto the back of your hand, then dab it on your face using your fingertips. 3) Spread the essence all over your face by massaging it onto your skin using gentle, circular motions. 4) Once the dead skin cells have come off, rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water and continue with your regular skincare routine.

Directions for use.

Now here's how the Peeling Essence looks like. It's a clear liquid with gel-like consistency and a mild floral scent.

Swatched on the back of my hand.

Massaged and spread all over the back of my hand...

And here comes the dead skin!

I love how it effectively removes dead skin cells without leaving your skin dry or turning your skin red and patchy. You don't get that mild tingling as you spread the product all over your face. Instead, you get that creamy, moisturizing feel, as if you're slathering serum on your face.

Dead skin cells near my chin area (click to zoom).

Dead skin cells on my nose and cheeks (click to zoom).

Your face becomes cleaner and brighter afterwards, and your skin feels soft and supple, especially around the cheek area. I've been using this product twice a week for over a month now, and have been loving the results so far. I also use this Peeling Essence on my elbows, and I must admit, my elbows don't look so dark anymore after continued use. :)

The Cellin Facial Peeling Essence comes in a 120 mL tube and sells for Php 880. You can purchase this online through The Cellin Cosmetics Facebook page or their Instagram profile.

Spotlight | Human Heart Nature Natural Lip Scrub.

Matte lipsticks are all the rage these days, and I must admit, I have a growing fondness for this lipstick trend. However, my major - and perhaps my only - concern is how they make my lips look parched and dry afterwards.

Thankfully, my favorite local skincare brand Human Heart Nature now has a product that can address this problem. Ta-daaaa ~~~ the all-new Natural Lip Scrub!

Human Heart Nature Lip Scrub.

I was looking forward to this product so much that despite being under the weather, I made it a point to attend the Magalogue Turnover/Product Launch held last March 18. Two days later I was rushed to the hospital because of a severe asthma attack, haha.

Product description.

All-natural ingredients.

Expiration date and storage instructions.

So anyway, the key to keeping your lips moisturized despite the annoying drying tendencies of matte lipsticks is to exfoliate properly. And by that, I mean exfoliating before and even after wearing (matte) lipstick.

Here's the lip scrub, uncapped.

This genuinely natural exfoliant does just that - it buffs away dry, dull skin and makes your kisser soft, smooth, and yes, kissable. It's made with all-natural, homegrown ingredients such as raw sugar from Negros, beeswax, sunflower seed oil, and jojoba seed oil.

A closer look. The jar is stuffed, like super-stuffed with sugar crystals.

The sugar crystals gently slough away rough, dry skin while the medley of moisturizers soften the skin and make the lips look plump and healthy. Oh, and this lip scrub contains peppermint too. I love its minty-fresh scent and its cooling effect on my lips!

Swatched. :)

To use, simply apply a pea-sized amount of the Human Heart Nature Natural Lip Scrub on the lips. Then massage the scrub gently for a minute or two. No need to worry about the sugar crystals falling off from your lips. They adhere pretty nicely, so none of those precious crystals go to waste. Afterwards, rinse your lips or simply wipe it off with a wet tissue or a damp washcloth.

My lips, parched and dry after 8+ hours of wearing matte lipstick.

I also used this product on my son, whose lips are often as dry as the Sahara. As soon as I applied the lip scrub on his lips, he licked the sugar crystals off the corners of his mouth because 'they were sweet', he said. Guess what? They're actually edible, but I don't recommend you to eat it. Lol. Also, you don't need to exfoliate everyday; twice or three a week will do.

After using Human Heart Nature Lip Scrub!

Overall, this product does a stellar job of getting dry and parched lips back in shape. I love its cool and refreshing formula, aside from the fact that it does not contain chemicals and is made with natural, locally-sourced ingredients. It's reasonably priced, too - just Php 175 for a 12-gram jar. Definitely pure bliss for my lips. :)

The Human Heart Nature Natural Lip Scrub is available at the Human Heart Nature online store and all Human Heart Nature branches nationwide. I'm thinking of doing a giveaway in collaboration with Human Heart Nature Laguna, so please stay tuned for details! :)

Spotlight | Human Heart Nature Vanilla Exfoliating Bar.

One of my all-time favorites from Human Heart Nature is the Bamboo Body Scrub, which I have raved about here. Unfortunately, this product was pulled out from the market sometime last year, much to my dismay.

This year, Human Heart Nature launched an alternative to this product, only this time it's in soap form. It's called the Vanilla Exfoliating Bar, with Loofah Exfoliants to boot.

Human Heart Nature Exfoliating Bar.

Human Heart Nature says this Exfoliating Bar will 'give your favorite spa a run for its money' as this product gives you the same spa-mpering experience at the comforts of your own bathroom.

Product description at the back of the box.

Infused with loofah extracts, this cleansing bar deeply cleanses as it sheds off your unwanted, dry skin. It's cold-processed and enriched with natural glycerin from coconut oil to keep the skin smooth and supple, and it soothes and invigorates the senses with it sweet vanilla fragrance.

Chemical-free!

And like all of Human Heart Nature's products, the Vanilla Exfoliating Bar is free from chemicals such as parabens and sulfates.

Those green thingamajigs are the loofah extracts. :)

What I love:

- It reeks of vanilla, my ultimate favorite scent!

- Exfoliates, without leaving the skin feeling tight and dry.

- Proudly Philippine-made.

- Made with natural ingredients.

- Chemical-free.

- Affordable price.

What you might not like:

- Some of you may find the loofah particles a bit rough at first, especially those with super sensitive skin. Hence, take extra care when rubbing against the sensitive skin parts. Also, I do not recommend using this on your face.

Priced at Php 84.75 each, the Vanilla Exfoliating Bar is available at Human Heart Nature stores nationwide, at their online store, and at select Beauty Bar outlets, Shopwise, Rustan's, and Robinson's Supermarkets in Metro Manila.

Spotlight | NeoCell Skincare Products + Giveaway!

A few months ago, I had the privilege of trying out some of NeoCell's best-selling products - the Beauty Bursts and the Keratin Hair Volumizer. Using them for weeks led to amazing results, hence I grew really fond of the brand. And so when NeoCell sent me a second wave of their new products, I was more than thrilled, and ready to be impressed all over again.

Today I'll be doing a capsule review of these three products - the Alpha Cell Exfoliator, the Hydra+ H.A. Serum, and the Refreshing Herbal Mist. I've been using all three for more than a month now, and I must say, NeoCell does exactly what it says it can do for your skin.

L-R: Alpha Cell Exfoliator, Hydra+ H.A. Serum, Refreshing Herbal Mist.

Made with natural fruit extracts, the Alpha Cell Exfoliator removes dead skin cells on the surface to make the skin look fresh and radiant. It contains green tea, a product that is rich in anti-oxidants, and has anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.

Alpha Cell Exfoliator, $5.73.

To use, simply pour a moderate amount on a cotton ball, and apply it on clean, dry skin while avoiding the eye area. I use this every morning, before applying moisturizer on my face.

Clear liquid, comes in a clear plastic bottle.

Push-down cap.

I love how this product penetrates easily, and how it makes my skin bright and tight sans the redness and irritation. For those who detest heavily-scented skincare products, you'll like how this product has no scent at all, although I was kinda hoping for it to smell like green tea or something.

NeoCell details.

The Hydra+ H.A. Serum, on the other hand, is a 'penetrating time-release serum' that contains natural hyaluronic acid (H.A.). Hyaluronic acid plays a critical role in skin health with its unique ability to hold in moisture.

Hydra+ H.A. Serum, $25.17

When applied topically, hyaluronic acid forms an air permeable layer and penetrates into the dermis, thus boosting the elasticity and hydration of the skin. The protective barrier on the skin locks in moisture, which gives the skin a youthful appearance.

Time release serum.

NeoCell's Hydra+ H.A. Serum does exactly that - it makes the skin glowing, plump, and youthful-looking. My skin felt tight right after the first application, and with continued use, the fine lines under my eyes started to fade away.

Paraben-free!

This product has a nice, citrus scent - subtle and not overpowering at all. It comes in a pump bottle, which dispenses the product easily and hygienically.

Pump bottle.

The serum has just the right consistency - not too thick, not too runny, and is easily absorbed by the skin. One pump is enough to cover the face and neck, so just a little goes a long way. I use this product twice a day, morning and evening, in lieu of my regular moisturizer. I love what this product does for my skin, so I don't think I'll be going back to my old moisturizer anytime soon. :)

One pump is all you need.

Finally, there's the Refreshing Herbal Mist, NeoCell's 'on-the-go moisture complex'.

Refreshing Herbal Mist, $7.17

This cooling mist contains collagen, skin balancing herbs, and soothing aloe vera that makes the skin hydrated and revitalized.

On-the-go Moisture Complex.

It comes in a handy 30 mL spray bottle that fits even in my smallest purse. I love that I can take this product wherever I go, and use it whenever my skin needs a little 'pick-me-up' - especially on days when I'm busy running errands while going to and fro my son's school.

Paraben-free!

Light, non-sticky, and lightly-scented, this product dries easily and can be spritzed even with makeup on. So yeah, I love that I can freshen up my face without worrying about my mascara running or my foundation caking. :)

Spritz!

These NeoCell products are available on iHerb, and at retail stores such as GNC, Whole Foods, and Better Health. Here in the Philippines, NeoCell products are distributed by Power and Beauty. You can make a purchase through their website, or at their physical store located at Trinoma Mall, Level 1.

One of my readers, however, will have the chance to try these products for free! And because I love my readers and followers so much, I'm even adding a bag of Beauty Bursts to the prize pack! And you know how much I love these collagen supplements because of the wonders that it did for my skin. :)

Beauty Bursts in Super Fruit Punch flavor.

Once again, I will be using Rafflecopter for this giveaway. The rules are simple - complete ALL of the mandatory tasks for your entries to be valid. You can earn more entries by doing the optional tasks. Giveaway will run until August 21st and is open worldwide.

a Rafflecopter giveaway