My Current Obsession - Innisfree Eco Science Wrinkle Spot Essence Pro

One product that is a must rave is the Innisfree Eco Science Wrinkle Spot Essence (Pro with a vibrating head) for problematic wrinkles that are difficult to target. It is perfect for the eye area with circular motion to prevent wrinkles as well as decrease fine lines. Innisfree incorporates anti-wrinkle products into their cream and tops it off with a head that allows for extra vibration signals to concentrate on those problem areas. It is the perfect compliment of product and the mechanics to enhance beauty attributes for women of all ages. It is a kick starter to prevent wrinkles, yet also helps to reduce the fine lines that have developed over time.

For anyone who is busy on the go and wish for something that helps to reduce the time spent on wrinkles and such, the gentle vibrations cut the amount of time spent on caring for your problem areas. The micro vibrations are gentle on the skin and the smooth metal surface helps to glide the cream onto the skin without tugging too hard to cause even more wrinkles. This can definitely happen with those who are pulling on the skin too hard which causes problems rather than fixing any. 

If you are on a budget and trying to get more bang for your buck, definitely go with the regular spot essence. It is the same exact solution minus the metal vibrating head. In order to maximize the use of the vibrating head for it's price which is priced the same as the regular eco science wrinkle spot essence in most places, you can simply refill the pro with the cream and extend the value of your dollar that much more. The smooth metal head is extremely gentle on the skin and will make you want to circle around the problem areas that much more. Be sure to use it on a clean face to reduce the number of bacteria build up. This is definitely one product that is to rave about and a genius idea for anyone who is just in need of time or is just that lazy!

Product Review - K LAC

One new line created by a handful of scientists in Korea is KLAC, a brand that focuses on inner and outer beauty with products to consume as well as to soak into the skin externally. Scientists concentrate on create products that adapts to those with sensitive skin, even recommended for those with problem skin. With three applications of products that include a peel, serum, and mask, the products are only recommended to be used once or twice a week to achieve soft and clear skin. 

For starters, the peeler is used to remove dead skin from the surface. Just 30 seconds is needed to remove a large amount of dead skin. For those with sensitive skin though, it is not recommended to be used too often and it may leave your skin a little red and sensitive after use, but it actually removes all of the dead skin imaginable. Made with natural extracts from calendula and chlorella to nurture the skin as well as with vegetable lactic acid bacteria, this product is to help keep the skin moist after use.

The LTA Multi Boosting Ampoule Effecter is equivalent to "100 bottles of yogurt" for the skin by showing immediate results of smoother skin. Made of grapeseed oil and rosemary extracts, it helps to increase brightness in the skin through its sticky consistency which is different compared to other products. This sticky texture is their selling point and known to help reduce wrinkles by keeping the skin intact.

Although it is a little sticky, the product actually works well with the skin. It absorbs rather quickly and doesn't cause any reaction at all. The only problem is probably having to use more than anticipated because it is a bit sticky. Nonetheless, the product is actually amazing and blends extremely well with the skin.

The K LAC LTA Revital Mask Effector is a product made with green tea, pomegrante, and glasswort which is nourishing for the skin, helping to retain moisture with a glossy finish. The mask is extremely thick and infused with an extremely hydrating touch that can be left on the skin for longer than the recommended time of 15 to 20 minutes. The smart thing to do is after the 15 or 20 minutes on the skin is to drape it around the neck so you can absorb more of the product onto your skin. It works extremely well with sensitive skin and leaves the skin hydrated and smooth right after use.

Candy forms of the LTA Collagen Troche Candy is full of collagen that helps to maintain elasticity and retaining moisture. Not only does it taste good (just like peaches), it is made of Vitamin and Xylitol which also helps with controlling cholesterol, managing stress, increasing in energy and of course, prevents wrinkles. A bottle has 60 tablets and the recommended dosage is 2 to 6 a day. Its extremely tasty and chewable so you don't have to worry about washing it down.

Overall, the products work well with sensitive skin, but it will take a while to see the effects of the LTA Collagen Troche Candy. I can say, though, that they are extremely tasty and I can't get enough of it. Controlling myself to not consume the whole bottle at once is the one thing that I have to do. It definitely helps that I am tasting something yummy with extra benefits. Although there may not be some direct correlation, my psoriasis has been getting a little better though.

For those who are looking for an actual sales job with this line, they are in search for the top gun sales people. Selling this product internationally, they are looking for representatives all over, but the company is based in Korea. For those interested, contact Michael McCarthy, the immediate supervisor at  MichaelMC13@gmail.com and mention this blog for a free product to sample yourself!

My Current Obession - It's Skin Mangowhite Peeling Gel

One of the best sellers at It's Skin, a popular beauty brand in Korea is the Mangowhite Peeling Gel. The product is recommended for all skin types that helps to remove dead skin by simply massaging the Mangowhite Peeling Gel into the skin for a minute or two. With immediate results and a great scent, it is recommended for anyone with sensitive skin and or problematic skin like myself. 

On clean skin, take a quarter size of the product and massage it into your skin in circular motion. You'll notice white clumps of dead skin that will form which is a bit disturbing the first time around, but you'll get used to it! Use the product one to two times a week to prevent oily skin. For an extremely cheap product priced at $7, it is a definite recommendation for all. I use this product once a week in addition to my Clarasonic Plus machine daily!


The smell of the product is amazing and it works extremely well, pulling off all of the dead skin. THe only problem is that the product may be a little too strong for those with oily and sensitive skin. It does make your skin a lot more oily which can be problematic for those with acne problems. Nonetheless, it is a product that I would buy again because it can be used on other parts of the body to remove dead skin.

Product Review - Missha Super Aqua All In One Cleansing Tissue

For anyone with extremely sensitive skin, the Super Aqua All in one cleansing oil tissue is actually amazing. It is gentle for the skin and wipes away all makeup with just one sheet. You may need to do a little more work with eye makeup, but it is the go to for make up removing and even if you are on the run. The Super Aqua line is for those with sensitive skin, concentrating on water being their main ingredient in their products. Being that I have psoriasis, finding the right product is not that easy. Initially, my face would turn red with use which meant that I had to wash almost immediately but after a second use, the product just works extremely well with the skin. The best part is being able to find something that works well for a low price because Missha actually has sales every now and then which makes shopping that much better. 

Product Review - Etude House Black Head Pore Tightening Essence

The Etude House Black Head Pore Tightening Essence is a handy pen made with Morocco mud that helps to tighten and shrink the sizes of those with expanded pores. Simply turn the cap to ON and push to apply the essence on the problematic areas. There is no need to rinse off and it is definitely recommended for those with oily and combination skin. It is not the type of product to be used as a primary care product for black heads but a supplement. 

Product Review - Missha Tornado Ampule Mask (Stem Water)

The Missha Tornado Ampule Mask which is a sleeping pack has three products that is recommended based on your skin type. The Stem Water product has the benefit of being extremely hydrating which is great for those with dry skin or even during the colder seasons where heat tends to make the skin dry. Using birch sap, bamboo sap, white cedar sap and hyaluronic acid it helps to promote a more moisturized skin base within a short amount of time.

After your nightly skin care regimen, simply pack on the swirly goodness of the Tornado Ampule Mask and sleep the night away. It will help to promote clear skin, removing dead sin cells from the pores. Because it is made with natural pure water (with the concept of their aqua line) it is made with 7 kinds of natural water which relieves irritation. It is one product that is recommended for anyone with dry and sensitive skin because it does work. The amazing swirl of white and green lotion makes it that much more amazing as well!

Product Review - Missha Facial Choco Cacao Scrub

Chocolate is known to be an anti-aging product that helps to remove dead skin cells and enhance beauty. Missha Facial Choco Cacao Scrub incorporates 15% of edible chocolate from Brazil in their scrub which takes it to the next level for chocolate lovers. An amazing smell and a product that works to remove dead skin cells is at the top of the list to enhance the skin and prevent aging. Simply use on a clean face, massage onto the skin for two to three minutes and wash off with lukewarm water. For those who do not have sensitive skin, you can use it as a mask by applying a thin layer and washing of after five minutes. The sugary beads help to remove the layer of dead skin which is still gentle.

My Current Obsession - New Pumice Ultimate Spa

New Pumice Fission Technology is a new discovery I made from my local nail salon that helps to remove the layer of dry skin from the hands and feet. In addition to this, it helps to stimulate and revitalize the skin. It definitely didn't look or seem possible at first but by shaking the bottle and spraying for a hand and foot massage, the layer of skin will be gently removed. You will notice a dead layer of skin that is gently scrubbed away with use. 

My Current Obsession - Innisfree Camellia Shine Hair Essence

Anyone who knows me knows that I still have very long, virgin hair. The reason for that is because I am looking to donate my hair, but I am so obsessed with taking care of my hair that I did a mini blog on Hair 101 and how to prevent split ends when I first started the blog. For the most part, I really care for my hair and have minimal heat damage as well as minimal combing. 

I recently found a product that I have been obsessed with because it promotes healthy hair. The Innisfree Camellia Shine Hair Essence is one of the best sellers in Korea for hair care. It is enriched with camellia oil from Jeju island. It's for all hair types and promotes a healthy shine which can be used daily. Simple run the product through your hair (I suggest running it through your ends only if you are on a budget). After doing so, you can simply pair with your regular products. Because I do not use any, I just use this as a nutrient to keep my hair healthy.

Like many other products that claim to help keep the hair healthy, the Innisfree Camellia Shine Hair Essence is one product that actually works. It keeps my hair healthy and reduces the number of split ends. Although it claims to provide the hair with some kind of shine, there isn't great shine behind the product, but it works in maintaining. For those who do not have the time to care for your hair by conditioning and using olive oil to soak the hair, this would be a great product thats quick and easy to use. 

Beauty Review - Clio Waterproof Pen Liner

I have previously reviewed the Clio Kill Slim Eye Liner which is absolutely amazing for drawing thin lines on the lower and upper lash line. Because lines are extremely thin, it is only recommended for use on the lower lash line. For the upper lash line, I recommend pairing the Clio Waterproof Pen Liner. This product is absolutely amazing with a thicker felt brush that allows for a sharp wing. 

This waterproof liner lasts all day, but it will smudge with water. You can take off most of it with warm water which is not something that I am happy about. Color is supposed to stay on for a night of partying which is the concept of the brand. It is a perfect pair for anyone who is looking for a killer black liner that is dark in color. Day time use is perfect for this.

My Current Obsession - Hourglass Foundation/Blush Brush No. 2

Rated the world's number one brush, it is a must have for all. This multipurpose brush allows you to save time switching from brush to brush and cleaning. It allows for you to go from wet to dry which means starting with a primer, continuing to a liquid foundation and finishing with contouring and highlighting with blush or bronzer. The best thing about the brush is the PETA-friendly, soft bristles which are made from high synthetic fibers, perfect for those with the most sensitive skin that are looking for maximum coverage.

Priced at an average of $60, this was one investment that was an enormous splurge. On a good note, for a brush that is so expensive, it is backed with an 8 year warranty. Yes, 8 years. So if the brush and bristles start to fall apart, be sure to get that examined and save your receipt! Because it is such a handy and durable brush, spray cleaning after use and weekly shampooing is not needed, but recommended. If you haven't gotten your splurge on for this brush yet, I do recommend doing so!

Pamper Me Pretty - Hair Threading

Threading is a popular technique used to remove hair from the face as well as other parts of the body, all parts of the body in fact. It is a method of tweezing hairs in many Arabic, Chinese, Indian, and Persian countries by using thread. This allows for quick hair removal compared to tweezing, but a cheaper method than waxing. 

Everyone has hairs on their face, but it is a matter of it being dark or light. Most women of the Asian cultures engage in threading in order to achieve a more lighter complexion in the skin. The most popular threading areas are the eyebrows and lip. Many others thread the entire face which includes the forehead, chin, cheeks, eye area, nose, ears, and so on. You can also thread the other parts of your body, which include the arms, legs, back. 

The process may sound a little painful to pluck off hairs with the use of thread, but it is just like waxing. It is a painful, tedious process (well a little more tedious than waxing the first time), but it is something that must be done and gets easier over time. You grow used to the feeling of the hairs being pulled. There is a certain technique to each part of the face that you are threading. You may need to pull at some areas to ensure a cleaner thread, but the person threading your skin will show you what to do. 

It is a more natural method and recommended for those who are allergic to different waxing products. In addition, the redness from threading is usually a lot less than that of waxing because of the burning wax that is applied to your skin. Some salons may thread immediately without the application of a baby powder, but others may use a baby powder in order to see where they have threaded already. 

The hairs on your face is then threaded line by line. The most painful areas are the lips and around the eyes because it is extremely sensitive and where the skin tugs at the most. It is important to stay relaxed and try not to flinch during the process because you do not want the specialist to pull of a chunk of hair that is not meant to be pulled off. 

Like plucking and waxing, hair stays off for the same amount of time so this varies from person to person. Each spa and salon has their own way of practice which may be sitting in a chair or laying on a bed, but is something to experience at least once in your life. Eyebrows would be my personal suggestion for someone who's doing it for the first time. Only because you probably have a habit of plucking or waxing your eyebrows already anyway so the pain is more endurable. Another area that is the least painful is the forehead, but if you don't plan on keeping that up, there is no need to thread the forehead area.

My Current Obsession - Banila Co Prime Primer Mattifying Balm

One of the best sellers at Banila Co. is the Primer of Mattifying Balms. With a handful of different primers that the company is known for, the Banila Co Prime Primer is one of the most popular makeup primers in Korea and a well known one, winning an award every year. Developed from their famous bottled-liquid primer line, the balm version helps to maintain hydration in the skin and provide a more even pore base for foundation. I have to grown to love the product because it provides a great makeup base and does help to smooth out the face, much like the Tony Moly Egg Pore product, but this is in fact a great two in one! I just cant get enough of the product and so glad I have it with me on this trip!

My Current Obsession - Nature Republic Botanical BB Fixer

I am absolutely in love with the Nature Republic Botanical BB Fixer spray that is a way to put a hold on your makeup. Very much like the Urban Decay Makeup setter spray, it is to be used after making your final touches to set your makeup for a long night out.

It is one of the fewest makeup setters that I have found in Korea. I think one of the best things about this product is the scent of the spray. I hate using products that work but smell horrible. This setter has a fragrant scent of flowers that smells just like perfume so you can even skip out on the perfume around the ears. Without shaking the can, simply spray to the face with the eyes closed. Be sure to have an even application to the face! Simple as that and you are on your way out.

Pamper Me Pretty - 나무그늘 Dr Fish

Dr. Fish is a different kind of cafe in Gangnam, Seoul. It is by far my favorite place to have a cup of coffee and a quick Pamper Me Pretty session. Although the prices are a little higher than other cafes in town, it is the best place for a bunch of girls to bond and share thoughts over. I suggest going to visit with a  group of girls and sharing the experience of this unique cafe. To make up for the prices of drinks, they offer a free self service of bread and jams that you can heat up. 

They are known for their fish pool where you dunk your feet in and the fish will eat the dead skin. For just an extra two dollars with the purchase of a drink, you can have a semi-pedicure without having to visit a nail salon. The best part about this cafe is that there is no wait to dunk your feet in the pool of fish. Simply finish your drinks and let a staff know that you are ready for your 15 minutes of dead-skin-vanish!

The experience is definitely one that stands on its own. For starters, it is extremely ticklish for those who have sensitive feet or a small amount of dead skin. It is recommended to start out at the baby pool and make your way over to the bigger fish. The size of the fish is beyond ten times the size of the smaller fish so the amount of skin they eat is a lot more. It is almost a frightening experience to dunk your feet in the pool. I know for sure my girls and I were not able to do so immediately, we had to gradually stick our feet into the pool of fish. 

In regards to the menu, all drinks are worth trying. The priority of the cafe caters to their beverages and other snack dishes. With freshly baked waffles, gelatos, bingsu, and other baked goodies, a great amount of time can be spent here. They even have a book room that is strictly for studying, a quiet room that many people can concentrate in. In addition to magazines that can be found at any other cafes, Dr Fish also has a wide selection of books in their book room. It is a great variety to have something else to look forward to other than typical magazines. The spacious cafe is the perfect place to lounge out with cushioned couches and tables everywhere. 

Nonetheless, these dead-skin-eating-fish is a popular treatment in Asian countries and it is definitely  worth trying out. You can't go wrong spending another two dollars on an immediate dead skin treatment. Depending on how thick your callus is, you can see an immediate smooth texture, but of course results vary from person to person. Straight from exit 10 of the Gangnam station on line two, the Dr. Fish cafe is located upstairs across the street from the CGV movie theatre. Although it is a bit hard to find, it is definitely work the travel for.

Beauty Pick Me Up - Milk Calcium Nail Pack

This easy to slip on nail mask helps to pack on the calcium to your nails to promote healthy looking nails. It is perfect for those who always have nail polish on, just like me. Over time, you nails need to breathe and having a nail mask helps to reduce the yellow and hydrates your cuticles. Prepped and coated with a milk liquid, each finger slot is packed with nutrients that help to rejuvenate healthy nails. I am a big fan of this quick and efficient nail mask which is easy to use. This 15-20 minute soak on will leave your nails soft and fresh. I suggest using it before getting a manicure on a set of nail polish free hands. Be sure to pick up this convenient and cheap nail remedy next time you stop by Face Shop!

My Current Obsession - Foot Peel and Foot Mask

Foot peeling is an extremely popular product in Korea. Every beauty store has their own take on the product with a different level of strength for peeling. The general concept is soaking your feet in two separate foot bags that you fill with the foot peeling solution for an hour and a half. Simply scrub off the solution and any dead skin that comes off. The magic behind the foot peeling is that you will shed dead skin for a few days, up to 10 days, depending on the strength of the product. It is the perfect solution to anyone with callus problems and just cannot find the right fix. I highly suggest it and I am in love with it, although it can be a bit nasty to watch your foot peel over the course of a few days. Tony Moly has the strongest foot peel with max effects that lasts up to 10 days.

Be sure to plan for that and be mentally prepared. I don't have such a thick callus problem so I did not peel as much as my family and friends have after using this product. There is also the option of a foot mask that you can use to keep your foot soft and smooth. The foot mask is optional, just a regular mask that helps to lock in moisture to your feet, but I definitely suggest using the foot peel because it is an awesome product. I am definitely planning to stock up before returning home!

If you are interested in this or any other Korean products, feel free to email me at cunggie@gmail.com

My Current Obsession - Innisfree Nail Pen Moisturizer

This extremely easy to use moisturizing pen has an angled tip that allows you to glide nutrients of natural lavender and sunflower seed oil to your nails. It includes a refill tip that you can replace when needed. 

Because I constantly have some kind of color on my nails all year around, this product helps to revive my nails and lessen the yellow color. This cheap beauty pick up is something that I recommend to use when taking off your nail polish for a day or two to help treat your nails.

Beauty Gadgets - Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Steam Towel

I recently blogged about the Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask that I am absolutely in love with. In addition to the face mask, I also picked up the Jeju Volcanic Steam Towel. Although this towel is not made from Jeju Island like the Pore Clay Mask is, they are on the same line of products. Hence, the name of the product. It is suggested to be used prior to the Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask to open your pores and maximize the benefit of the mask.

Regardless of whether the product is being used with the Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask or not, it is a great way to open up the pores of your skin. Like the steam machine that helps to open up your pores, this steam towel has the same effect, but not as strong because of the heat that you are receiving on the face. I recommend using this face towel before removing black heads, threading, waxing, and even plucking on the face. It helps to ease the pain in addition to opening up the pores for deep cleansing.

This reusable steam towel is soft to the skin and extremely easy to use. Simply thoroughly wet the steam towel and place it on a plate. Microwave for 20 seconds and test on the back of your hand prior to placing on your face. Once the temperature is right, place on the face for 5 minutes. Be sure to stay relaxed to maximize the results. This is the perfect time to ease your mind and enjoy 5 minutes to yourself, especially when there is just not enough time in the world.

New Years - New Giveaway

It is the time of the year where we all have a new start. My new start is with my blog and my life in Korea. I will continue to provide updates of food, beauty, health, and tips over in Korea. However, I would like to do it right for the year 2012. Let's start the year with a giveaway.

Being that I have been living in Korea for the past month and a half, I have been exploring Seoul for its many gadgets and beauty products. This giveaway will include a few of the goodies that I have stumbled upon in Korea which includes the Slim Face Massager, the Missha Pure Source face mask, a few goodies from the Daiso store, as well as a handful of bonuses I have yet to blog about :]

To be qualified for the giveaway, please:

• Reply answering "One thing I love about Korea(ns) is..."
• Follow @cunggie on twitter and 
• Subscribe to this blog publicly by clicking the "Join this site" on the homepage (there may be a malfunction, so please be sure to refresh and ensure that your photo is under the Members section)

Once again, shipping is free and I will ship internationally, good luck! Spread the word to family and friends. Thank you all for the support.

Update: Will be announcing the giveaway winner on February 14th. Good luck!