6 Summers with SampleRoom Family

When my good Blogger Friend Sophie told me about how she and her group of friends thought about bringing in a "sampling site" in the Philippines, I knew it's going to be big!  Because I, for one, has always been a fan of "Hey guys, try testers on counters first before you purchase!" , or "Hey, ask for samples if they have any before you commit in purchasing full size!"

That's how AMW started, I started a journey of investing good quality skincare, makeup and hair care products and I want to share my experiences online so YOU know what to expect before you spend your hard-earned money.  

So when Sampleroom asked me to be a Partner Blogger, I said YES right away and it was the best yes after Keith --- LOL!

But seriously, who would've thought 6 summers has passed and I'm still here, happy and taking about my love for Sampleroom as often as I can?

Moringa-O2 2in1 Herbal Shampoo and Conditioner Review

I recently have issues with my scalp ever since the start of 2018!  It must be the weather or some allergic reactions to food, I honestly can't pinpoint it but it is starting to bother me like crazy!  

I have to re-shuffle and change some of my hair products and it was a wonderful timing when I got a sample of Moringa-O2 2in1 Herbal Shampoo and Conditioner (thanks Sampleroom).  I am too bothered to try ANYTHING that can help reduce itch and treat scalp!

Moringa-O2 2-in-1 Herbal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner is a safe and effective herbal anti-dandruff shampoo and conditioner which cleanses your scalp and moisturizes your hair at the same time!  It consists of Malunggay, Olive Oil, Sunflower Oil and Argan Oil which work together to provide gentle and no-fuss solutions that cleanses your hair and scalp without stripping off its essential oils.

It is also infused with Rosebay extract that decreases sebum production on the scalp while reducing the appearance of adherent and non-adherent flakes. It also provides a soothing anti-inflammatory action, making Moringa-O2 2-in-1 Herbal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner a lighter and milder alternative compared to leading anti-dandruff brands in the market.

Cloud Cosmetics Baby Pores Powder Emulsion Review

So a cute box arrived our doorstep one time and it says "Cloud Cosmetics"

After checking out the packaging, I originally thought it was a Korean made beauty products but after doing my own research, learned this is a Proudly Filipino Brand!

Formerly known as Eden's Paradise (I knew about it as the packaging of their lip product is exactly the same!)  

I personally applaud their new look!

Today, I am focusing my first Cloud Cosmetics review on their Baby Pores Powder Emulsion (Php499.00).

Cloud Cosmetics Baby Pores Powder Emulsion Says ---

This primer is specifically designed to cover, blur, and minimize pores and skin imperfections. It glides on as a cream and quickly transforms into a fine powder leaving a matte, silky smooth finish. It instantly hides your imperfections like magic! With SPF 30.

Initial Thoughts: Seoul White Korea

You've probably seen the launch of Seoul White Korea online a couple of months ago!  Who wouldn't?  Most of my Beauty Loving friends were there!  I was really sad I couldn't make it as I was stuck in a meeting in the opposite side of the Metro.  

But thanks to my Sampleroom family, they sent me a set to try and I've given these products a quick test and what I'll be sharing to you are my initial thoughts as I haven't used them long enough to really give an in-depth review.

I welcome all my AMW friends to comment below if you've tried these products and share to us your experience so we can help each other!

As overwhelming as the cute photo looks, the brand launched only 2 products --- the Double White Whitening Soap and Instant White Tone-Up Whitening Milky Cream.

The Seoul White Korea Double White Whitening Soap

60g Php39.00/ 90g Php60.00/ Double Pack Php65.00 and Triple Pack Php125.00

Which Vitress Variant Should You Go For?

Three years ago, I shared about my thoughts on Vitress Hair Solutions especially the Cuticle Coat (Original) which is inexpensive yet effective!

Fast forward to today, who would've thought the brand, who already made great hair solutions came up with more variants to match EVERY SINGLE Hair needs of Filipina?  (Or women in general?)

When it comes to hair care products, I am really confident in sharing my thoughts on them because I have tried so many brands to date and hey, that's where this Blog started!  

AskMeWhats started by answering queries from friends and family and my first few questions was all about Hair Products!

So I was given the chance to try their newest line, of course, I still included the Vitress Cuticle Coat in Classic then went for Vitress Cuticle Coat Heat Protect, Vitress Hair Freshener and Vitress Hair Polish Strengthening.

Which particular variant should you get if you only have to pick ONE?  I personally think all 4 are a MUST since they are all affordable, but just in case there is such thing as only ONE hair care product, here's a quick guide or help from yours truly!

Vitress Cuticle Coat Classic

Php87.00

Made with special serum from a blend of Silicones, Vitress Classic Cuticle Coat wraps and seals each hair strand to protect it from damage and breakage as it gives an instant and intense shine, softness, smoothness, protection, and manageability to the hair.

Gluta-C with Kojic Plus Shower Salt Scrub and Acne Control Toner Review

Hi AMW friends!  Today, I will be giving my initial thoughts on 2 newest products from Gluta-C with Kojic Plus+ line which I got from Sample Room.

Gluta-C With Kojic Plus+ Shower Salt Scrub (Php164.75) and

Gluta-C With Kojic Plus+ Acne Control Toner (Php109.75)

Since I've tried other Gluta-C products in the past and haven't suffered any negative reactions using them, I am more comfortable in giving these 2 new products a try!  But keep in mind that I didn't use the toner fully because I personally do not have Acne Prone Skin and I only use it on days I needed to "spot treat" certain areas.  As for the Shower Salt Scrub, I come to terms with the idea of exfoliating both my face and body even with dry skin because it helps lessen the skin flakiness and it was highly recommended by skin experts to do so no matter what skin type you have!

Let's start with the Shower Salt Scrub which I used immediately after receiving this from Sample Room.

Cathy Doll Whitening Sunscreen L-Glutathione Magic Cream SPF50 Review

I've been more addicted to Sunblock lately!  From driving my son to school and all the errands in a lightly tinted car!  I'm starting to see watch lines and shirt lines!  (Not a good sight people!)  So my quest for lightweight face and body sunblock continuous as I use up tube after tubes!

Especially Sunscreen for the Body!  

Cathy Doll Whitening Sunscreen L-Glutathione Magic Cream SPF50

Php499.00 (Approx $9.00) for 138ml 

I used to shy away from Whitening Sunscreen or any whitening products in general!  But thankful for the harsh rays of the sun and my constant getting in and out of the car (motherhood), I am starting to see uneven lines and random dark spots on my arms and legs!  So I finally gave in to Cathy Doll Whitening Sunscreen L-Glutathione Magic Cream because I get so many positive feedback from fellow beauty junkies!

Tiny Buds Rice Baby Powder Review

I first introduced to you the brand Tiny Buds HERE and I personally used their products on Kyle so many times!  One product that I must highlight is the Rice Baby Powder.  For years, I haven't used any baby powder on Kyle because I am a bit paranoid with all the negatives on baby powders I read online.  I mean, when we are talking about our little ones, it is always better to be safe than sorry!

But once Kyle reached "toddler" stage and he's been perspiring so much just like his dad, I knew I had to look for a brand that's natural and safe to use.  Thankfully, there are more and more brands/companies out there trying their best to answer the needs of moms like me!  I tried Tiny Buds  Tiny Buds Rice Baby Powder because it is made from real rice grains and as the company states, they are "Natural to the Tinyest drop".  

Tiny Buds Rice Baby Powder says ---

This Internationally awarded Tiny Buds Rice Baby Powder is the 1st baby powder made from 100% real rice grains. It is hypoallergenic and keeps baby’s delicate skin fresh and dry all day. Trusted by Pediatricians.

• No talcum powder & harmful preservatives
• Mild Scent
• Prevents prickly heat
• Safe for babies with skin asthma and skin eczema

Palmolive Naturals White + Milk Review

One thing that I've been loving about my Sampleroom family?  The chance to try before I buy because I would sometimes just stick to what I use and never venture out on other brand/products.

I recently get to try the new Palmolive Naturals White + Milk line and I couldn't be happier.

Palmolive Naturals White + Milk Soap 

(80g for Php28.75 and 55g for Php12.95)

Palmolive Naturals White + Milk Body Wash

(200ml for Php80.00)

Saw this poster of Heart Evangelista so many times online and that sparked up my interest about the products event more!

According to Palmolive ---

"Palmolive Naturals White + Milk Soap’s formula is infused with 100% natural milk protein, helps nourish and reveal whiter skin in just 1 week*, so you can flaunt your naturally milky white, milky soft skin."*Based on mexameter instrumental reading; when used twice daily

Sample Room's Summer ParTEA!

When Sample Room reached out to me to be included in their "Partner Bloggers" list, it wasn't a difficult decision to say "YES" upon hearing their mission.  A mission I've been constantly hoping for whenever I write product reviews.

"Who wouldn't want to try the product first before buying them?Sample Room is here to give you that option. And this is our inspiration."

Fast forward to several years after, I am one of the lucky "many" who are part of this growing family!  I get to try out product samples before I can decide if I'll commit to a full-sized version.  I get to read reviews from fellow consumers who have availed samples and also from fellow Beauty Bloggers who are as "OC" as I am when it comes to product testing.  

Seriously, Sample Room is a gift from the Beauty Heavens.

And just when I thought I was lucky enough to be part of this lovely community, Sample Room invites Partner Bloggers each year to enjoy Summer!

This year, it was held at the beautiful Manila Polo Club!  With partner brands who believes and support the mission and vision of Sample Room.

Basilur Tea 

By far one of the best tea brand that I've tried.  I was able to try this December last year when I was gifted this by a friend.  I can't stop drinking this tea every night and my favorite flavor as of the moment is the White Magic Milk Oolong Tea.  Jasmine comes in 2nd and I can't wait to try the rest of the flavors!  

Skincare For Startup MUAs

Getting these Pond's Goodies from my Sample Room family brought me back to so much memories.  I remember those times when I was just starting out (eons ago!)

This post is just a simple reminder on how anyone can chase after their dreams!  I used to dream to be a Professional Makeup Artist as young as 16 years old but because asking money from my parents was never an option for me, I went ahead to fulfill my dreams by being creative about the resources I have!

Even with limited budget, I make sure my KIT is packed with skincare products to help "prep" the skin of my clients!  I remember loving the Pond's White Beauty Day Cream and used it for the full 4 years of my college days and how I actually use it on clients!

Again, the brands of skincare you invest for your PRO KIT doesn't have to be this brand but this is to show you how you can try to use brands based from your budget, and better, if you ask your clients to prep their skin using their own products before the makeover!

Got all these from Sample Room.

Pond's Acne Clear Anti Acne Facial Foam

Best product for oily skin.  Even when clients who have oily skin advise me that they don't have makeup on, I still advise them to wash their face with a cleansing foam to remove excess oil and dirt.

Something New: Belo Baby Hand Sanitizers

When Belo launched Belo Baby, I knew moms like me are more than willing to give "baby products" a test because we do everything for our "babies".

So when I saw Belo Baby came up with their own line of Hand Sanitizer, I'm so happy Sampleroom has stocks for their members to try by using their points!  I have to give these a test (on myself) before letting my active toddler use it!

Available in 3 scents: Peach, Green Apple and Blueberry

Full size 50ml Php49.75

According to Belo Baby ---

"Belo Baby hand sanitizer kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria. Aside from being hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, it is carefully formulated without harmful ingredients such as parabens, triclosan, chlorine, formaldehyde, and other common allergens. It is 100% safe and gentle! Moreover, it has glycerin that moisturizes skin, and an ultra-mild fragrance that leaves skin fresh."

AMWtv: Belo Sunexpert Initial Thoughts

Hi AMW friends!  If you follow me on Instagram and are cool enough to click my IG stories, you've probably seen how often I do initial thoughts/product reviews on products that I'm currently testing, random makeup and skincare tips and a whole lot of life-sharing.  With the positive messages I receive on the short and sweet IG stories, I am more inspired to do more!  And with this in mind, I've finally decided to create AMWtv, nothing special, not a full-blown "Vlogger" for sure but you won't definitely see the last of this video!  

Recently, I received a full range of Belo Sunexpert from my Sampelroom family!  Ever since Kyle went to school, I've been using more than the usual sunblock because I wait for him 3 full hours right under the sun so I tend to apply and re-apply more than usual.  So this is a blessings in disguise when I got fresh supplies of my daily sunscreen.  

YES, you read it right, DAILY sunscreen because the Belo Sunexpert definitely falls into that category.  They aren't sticky, extremely lightweight and doesn't change the color of your skin tone, and best of all, they work!  So please scroll further down for my initial thoughts video (upon receiving the products) and my in-depth review on each product.

Please be nice to me, this is definitely super amateurish but its done with 101% love!

Moringa-O2 Naturals Malunggay Herbal Insect Repellent Review

So I am the "protective" mom, Yes I AM!

So protective I always spritz Citronella around the area where he stays put.  I have a mosquito patch too!    As much as I should feel secure with all my hoobaloo, I don't feel he's 100% safe.

So it was pure happiness when I received a sample of Moringa-O2's newest Herbal Insect Repellent Lotion with Citronella that is DEET FREE!

According to Moringa-O2---

"The Moringa-O2 Herbal Insect Repellent Lotion with Citronella contains a rare blend of extracts and oils from "malunggay", olive and omega (sunflower) that feed your skin with rich anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals.  Citronella Oil is a plant-based natural insect repellent.  Aloe Vera helps heals bites and wounds; soothes and moisturizes the skin."

Johnson's Milk + Oats Review

When Kyle was still a Baby, I am very particular with the bath product he uses.  But now that he's almost 4 years old, I told myself I will use whatever's available because I don't want his skin to be too sensitive like *ahem* his mom so I want him to get used to different brands!

And just when I thought I was being a cool mom for not being "OC" about his skin, it backfires on me because Kyle is suffering from Dry, Itchy and worst, skin irritations!  We literally had to bring him to his Doctor to have his skin checked!  True enough, he is suffering from Clinically-visible Dry Skin!  

I honestly felt bad!  But what's a mom to do?  Instead of moping around blaming myself, I have to thank my SampleRoom family because they recently sent me a Johnson's Milk + Oats package so I gave it a test right away!

L-R Johnson's Baby Bath, Baby Lotion and Active Kids Shiny Drops Shampoo

Finally, I'm ready to share my thoughts on the power of 2!

The New Palmove Naturals Intensive Moisture Available at Sampleroom!

All thanks to Sampleroom for letting me "try before I buy"!
I am seldom a Palmolive Naturals hair care products user.  Yes, I have tried their Anti-Hair Fall line but I never thought of trying to others until I saw these on my favorite sampling site!

Now, my current hair situation, as you all know, is colored and damaged!  So shampoo and conditioner with the word "Intensive Moisture" are just some of the keywords I'm looking for.  When Palmolive Naturals Intensive Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner + Cream Conditioner landed on my desk, I immediately gave it a test (that same night!  I had to shower again!)

Then the rest was history!  I'm almost halfway done with these power duo so I'm ready to share my thoughts.

Sample Room is Heaven-sent Since 2012

I have been a proud member of Sample Room for as long as I remember.  Okay, it wasn't that long but it felt like I was with this family forever!  Sample Room started 2012 and it has been 3 fulfilling years of Trying Before Buying!  If you have been a long time reader of my blog, you'll know how much I wished ALL BRANDS to give consumer (us) chances to try their products before we buy full-size!

And my prayers were answered with Sample Room came about.  With the commitment of empowering consumers through an interactive online community, us, consumers get to find the perfect match when it comes to skincare, cosmetics and other beauty and wellness domains.

Just some of the "happiness in a pouch" I receive every now and then...

Have You Tried Belo Baby Products?

You know how much I appreciate Sampleroom for so many things!  The first reason is that --- we can always Try Products Before We Buy!  Secondly, they really include some of the best products and brands in the market for sampling!  And recently was no exception!

I have tried a lot of Baby Skincare products ever since I turned into a mom!  One reason I try my best not to stick just one brand is because I don't want my son to get accustomed using just one product.  If he gets allergic reactions to certain ingredients, I want to know as early as NOW.

So when I received samples of Belo Baby from my Sampleroom family!  I gave 2 of the products a test!

What's New?

Belo Baby Face and Body Lotion

Belo Baby Hair and Body Wash

Belo Baby Bar Soap

Belo Intensive Whitening Tone Correcting BB Cream Review

So year 2016, Belo up'd their game by creating an instant flawless, no-makeup look in a tube called Belo Intensive Whitening BB Cream.  Given the fact that I have used and tested so many BB Creams, I raised my brows on this because I have this inkling feeling that this product will be "heavy" against my skin.  (That was my judgemental side talking :P)

All thanks to my Sample Room family, I get to try this out amidst all the judgements on top of my head!  So after 2 full weeks of use, I'm ready to share my thoughts.

Note from AMW:  I did a patch test prior to applying this all over my face!  Please do the same if you have sensitive skin.

I look pale, but that's my pale face with a layer of Belo BB Cream

What sets the Belo BB Cream apart from the rest of the BB creams, is the "Conceals as it Whitens" promise.  I know most BB creams have whitening properties but seldom do I find that "whitening effect" even after a year of usage!   (Referring to my Skin79 VIP gold BB Cream)

Something New: TRESemme Platinum Strength Line

One thing I'm proud of, is my ability to change hairstyles on my own based on my mood!  I own loads of hair tools both for professional and personal use.  Okay, don't tell my husband this --- I always buy hair tools and tell him it's for professional use but in reality, it ended up in my "pesonal hair tools bin" Shhhh....

And I recently had a haircut (you'll know if you follow me on Snapchat @AskMeWhats).  My hairstylist kept on saying I have extremely dry and damaged her!  Thankfully, she has been my stylist for quite some time so I don't take it negatively!  I just told her: "I know!" :P  And I'm actually trying my best to do something about it!  

How? By using hair treatment 3x a week, use heat protectant products whenever I use styling tools!  So I'm always on a lookout for products that helps protect my hair from all those heat-styling tools!

TRESemme came up with a solution called TRESemme Platinum Strength.  This range fortifies and strengthens hair and can repair up to two years of damage caused by everyday hairstyling. 

The range includes --- TRESemme Platinum Strength Shampoo, Conditioner, Treatment Mask and Stay Soft Leave in Treatment.

#StandUpToStylingDamage Muses