Is creamy cleanser better than soap cleanser?

Before switching to Dermalogica about 14 years ago, I was a Clinique user for quite a number of years.   I used Clinique's soap cleanser (I think it was No.2) and I liked it because of the fresh and clean oil-free feeling on my face after cleansing.  I didn't have much problems then. 

Probably due to hormonal change, I noticed the tightness on my face each time after cleansing.  And my skin seemed to get more dehydrated that it started to peel, especially on my nose area.  Recommended by my sister, I went to a Dermalogica saloon. From then on, I've been alternating their creamy cleanser with the gel cleanser along with other brands. I had stopped using Clinique's soap cleanser since then.  The results were gradually seen as I don't have anymore peeling skin. 

Well, it has been 14 years and I think I will not switch products, unless I am undergoing another hormonal change.....(hope not so early)

My collection of Swarovski jewellery - Part 4

I like this Swarovski cross pendant for its simplicity and colour. To bring out the colour, this simple yet elegant piece is often worn with a dark-coloured blouse. I normally wore this with a black blouse.

Is this the side-effect of whitening powder?

I had my usual facial session the other day.  When it came to the application of exfoliant, I felt a slight stinging sensation on my face.  Normally, the beauty consultant would pre-empt me that I may have that feeling if my skin is dehydrated. 

I usually have that feeling too but just a little.  This time, the sensation was much greater and it was on most part of my face particularly on both my cheeks.  It was quite uncomfortable that I had to request the consultant to remove the exfoliant when she suggested it.

How could my skin be dehydrated and react to the exfoliant in that manner when I had been diligently using my skin hydrating mask more often? As expected, the consultant commented that my skin is sensitive.  In fact, she asked me to use mask more often.  Not wanting to disagree with her, I obligingly nodded my head. 

I have a strong feeling that the 'powerful' Extreme-C is the culprit.  Why not when the only thing different that month is I've started using this whitening product?  Could it be I've applied too much of it on my spot areas? Well, I thought perhaps a little more will whiten it sooner.

Local X-brand skincare products versus imported ones

Which one would you choose?  Are you a sucker for expensive imported skincare products? Or you are a user of any local X brand products such as Loreal, Nivea etc?

Are local products really effective in getting rid of common problems such as wrinkles or pigmentation?  If local products cost only a fraction of imported products, would they be as effective?  It just keeps reeling in my mind the effectiveness of such products when we can see famous celebrity such as Michelle Reis being ambassador for Loreal.  If these products are really effective, it's ironical that they don't burn a hole in women's pockets. 

How can those imported products compete with these more affordable local ones? Whatever is the reason, I stick to my own range of products which I have been loyally using for the past 15 years or so.  Having sensitive skin, I will never change products unless really necessary. 

When can I go back to my yoga again?

Next year, perhaps. With the first half of my day devoted to my kids, it's impossible that I can enrol myself to any yoga session.  And, I only prefer morning yoga although there are afternoon and night sessions offered by centres.

I desperately need one before my body go permanently 'out-of-shape'.