Lovette Jam

Random Musings on Life and Death

2015-10-17T17:24:00.000+08:00

"Even the most beautiful days eventually have their sunsets." – Anonymous

Today is the first death anniversary of a cousin. And today, we attended the burial and funeral rites of a dear neighbor. Both men were great men, well remembered for their kind and good hearts. Both men were honored and loved by many. Unfortunately, both men were gone too soon.

The throngs of people who showed up during the wake and attended the burial were a strong testament of the lives both men led. Friends and relatives from other places came to express grief and offer condolences. The outpouring of love and support even at the end of their lives here on earth was overwhelming.

At a time like this, as we remember their lives and their impacts on ours, we are only left to wonder: Were we able to adequately express our love and respect for them when they were still alive? Did our actions towards them reflect how we feel about them? Have we thanked them enough? Have we loved them?

More importantly, at a time like this, we ponder on our own lives. When the time comes when we succumb to death, will we be ready? Will we have any regrets? By then, have we asked for forgiveness from those we have wronged? Have we forgiven those who think have wronged us? Have we inspired others? Have we made a positive impact on the people around us? Were we loved? Have we loved?

As we contemplate on the uncertainty of life and death, we can only pray that when God finally calls us back to heaven, our lives had been as wonderful as a sunset -- beautiful, noble, unhurried.

In the sunset of our own lives, may we have no regrets. Only happiness... and love.

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Social Media Tourism: Using Social Media for Destination Marketing

2015-09-21T17:05:00.000+08:00

I recently had the opportunity to talk about using social media as a tool for destination marketing. I was invited to speak before Hotel and Restaurant Management students of St. Michael's College in Iligan City as part of the College of HRM's 1st Training Caravan Week.

Here's what I shared with the young minds:

Social media Tourism from Lovette Jam

Thank you, Mr. Michael Cristuta for the invitation. :)

Time Flies!

2015-07-01T15:35:00.000+08:00

And just like that, it's July already. First half of the year... gone.

A lot has happened the past six months. Here are some of my personal highlights.

January

You know you started the year right when you spend it with the people closest to you.

February

I have always declared February as my month -- a month to celebrate life. And love. Chos.

Anyways, this year, I hit a milestone in my life. I turned 30! Yeyy! (which reminds me I needed to finish this supposedly 3-part series. haha!)

March

March basically flew by. It went so fast; it was almost a blur. It was the time that I crammed through my long-overdue thesis -- a do-or-die situation; my last chance to finish it if I intended to graduate. So it was truly when I worked my hardest. Thankfully, before I totally went cray-cray and lost my mind, friends were there as a very welcome break. ;)

April

Well, hard work really does pay off. ;) I finished my master's thesis and finally earned my degree in April! Woot woot! The opportunity to deliver an inspirational message to my fellow graduates was a bonus. It was the first (and most probably the last) time I'd be asked to share what could be closest to a valedictory address. Haha!

May

May was a celebration of #TeamPRADA. The biennial Prada reunion happened in Cotabato City. It's a perfect reminder that even though we grow up and grow old, families never grow apart. ;)

June

June started and ended with travel. As an extension of the Prada Family reunion, we went on a road trip. And when we needed to go back to Cotabato by the end of the month, we tried a different route. Will write about it soon on my other blog. In the meantime, here's the route. ;)

It had been an awesome first half of the year! Time surely does fly by when you're having fun. And it will only get better.

Hello, July! I'm ready for your surprises! ;)

[Skin Care] Managing Summer Acne with Proactiv

2015-05-25T20:00:00.000+08:00

Summer means vacations, the outdoors, and adventures. But to an unfortunate some, the heat can also be about acne and its complications. The sweltering temperature can cause sweating, which will clog pores and lead to breakouts when mixed with excessive oil, dirt, and bacteria on skin. Despite your overactive oil glands going on overdrive this summer, you can still have fun in the sun with your most potent anti-pimple ally: Proactiv Solution, the leading anti-acne treatment product. It is safe and effective for almost everyone, and it can help prevent facial blemishes from becoming a larger skin problem.

How Proactiv Can Address Acne?

Proactiv’s mild formulations gently exfoliate your skin, remove excess oil, and deliver powerful acne-fighting medicine. Its acne-care system can work alone or in combination with a dermatologist’s prescriptions, and now with micro-crystal medicine for fast pore penetration and instant acne-fighting action.

How to Achieve Acne-Free, Summer-Ready Skin?

Proactiv requires less than five minutes a day. It’s easy to make it an essential part of your daily skincare regimen. Its oil-free formulation is designed to absorb excess oil to help give your face a more mattified appearance while helping to assist the skin in the fight against acne. This also helps the skin to remain soft, smooth, and hydrated without looking or feeling greasy.

Simple Three-Step System to Acne-Free Skin:

RENEW

Step 1: Renewing Cleanser

This medicated Renewing Cleanser is made with exclusive micro-crystal benzoyl peroxide – featuring smaller, finer particles designed to quickly penetrate pores to start killing acne-causing bacteria on contact. Tiny exfoliating beads gently remove dirt, excess oil and dead skin cells to help keep pores from clogging.

REVITALIZE

Step 2: Revitalizing Toner

This refreshing, alcohol-free toner helps remove impurities and excess oil so your skin looks and feels clean, soft and refreshed – not tight and dried out. Soothing botanical agents gently balance your skin tone.

REPAIR

Step 3: Repairing Treatment

The repairing acne treatment is a feather-light medicated treatment that Gets deep into clogged pores faster but is designed to be gentler on the skin. It’s an oil-free formula that’s safe for your entire face.

Bonus: Refining Mask

The rich, deep-cleansing mask uses sulfur, a proven acne blemish- fighting ingredient that reaches deep into the pores, heals existing blemishes, pampers inflamed skin, and softens and refines the skin’s texture.

Don’t make it a cruel summer for you, beat the breakouts and be Proactiv!

Careers in Digital Media

2015-05-24T20:21:00.002+08:00

It was one thing I never thought I would get to enjoy in a million years.

I have always had a serious case of stage fright. But over the recent years, I have embraced every opportunity to talk before young people, and I admittedly -- though a little surprisingly -- got to enjoy it.

Late last year, I was invited to speak before the students of the College of Business Administration in Mindanao State University - Main Campus in Marawi City about the "Careers in Digital Media."

Here's what I shared with the young people:

Careers in Digital Media | lovettejam from Lovette Jam Jacosalem

Ten Years, Four Lessons: A Message to Fresh Graduates

2015-04-06T18:06:00.000+08:00

Note: An ad-libbed version of this message was delivered during the 45th Pre-Commencement and Recognition Ceremonies of the College of Business Administration and Accountancy in MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology last Sunday, April 5, 2015.

Ten years. I can’t believe it’s been ten long years. I could still remember when I received my degree in BS Biology (Zoology). I was sitting there during the commencement exercises ten years ago. I was then an eager fresh graduate, willing to rush through life. I thought I had figured it all out – 4 years of med school, a year of post-graduate internship, another year to review and pass the Physician Licensure Exam, then specialize in Pediatrics. That was supposedly my path to success.

For as long as I can remember, I had always had a consistent answer to the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I have always wanted to be a doctor. Lovette Jam Prada Jacosalem, M.D. There’s a nice ring to it, yes? So, why not?

But if someone told me ten years ago that I would quit med school a year into it, be a corporate slave and then work through online jobs, start a small business, and earn a degree in Masters in Business Management, I would have laughed and maybe snorted in disbelief. Like a hardworking horse with blinders on, I have always set my eyes on the road ahead and worked as hard as I possibly could. Ten years ago, I was certain I would be a successful doctor.

But apparently, life isn’t always how we envisioned it to be. Sometimes, reality hits us right between our eyes. What we thought would make us happy and successful could turn out to be something that brings much pain and suffering. While pain and suffering may make success sweeter, sometimes, we wake up one day and we just know in our heart of hearts that it wasn’t meant to be. That it’s time to walk away.

I may have deviated from the life path set by my 20-year-old self. But I learned some things along the way. And I think today is an opportune time to share them with you.

First, I learned that we define our own success. Success should be defined in personal terms. We learned in economics that scarcity has value. But value of what? for whom? and how much? That’s the side of the equation we don’t usually focus on, but we must. We need to define what success means to us and determine what truly is of value for us. Because the moment we let go of other people’s definitions of success and value, real clarity begins.

As a serial entrepreneur and bestselling author, Rick Smith, puts it, “Make certain you are on the right journey. It’s about living where your unique passions and strengths intersect. It’s about not trying to force ourselves into roles that were never meant for us, or slaving toward a prize we will ultimately discover is worth very little. It’s about the meaning and value derived from intentionality, from being in control of your life’s own direction.”

When we define success in our own terms, the journey and the destination becomes a little more clearer and success becomes achievable.

And when we do reach success, we need to keep our feet on the ground. That’s lesson #2. While it’s good to take pride in what we do, to celebrate our successes, and to pat our backs for a job well done once in a while, it’s not okay to rub your success on other people’s faces. Remember to be humble. Let’s keep our feet firmly planted on the ground and have a grateful heart. Let’s acknowledge the blessings we have received and will receive.

Today, more than ever, let’s remember to thank everyone who helped us out one way or another – our parents, our professors, our mentors, and our friends who helped us get through our degrees.

Third, it’s important that we never stop learning. Yes, it’s a crazy world out there. Unemployment rates are frightening. The competition is tough, yet the opportunities to learn are endless. There are many ways to better equip yourself to get ahead of the competition. Invest in yourself. Attend trainings, seminars, and workshops. Sign up for online courses. Or maybe, go to graduate school. Enrol in a reputable school, where you can learn from thought leaders in your field, where you meet like-minded people from different industries.

In all honesty, I didn’t expect much when I enrolled in MBM. I didn’t even know what I got myself into. I just threw myself blindly into an unfamiliar territory. My background was in biology, but I plunged headfirst into the world of business. It was scary, yes, but I sure am glad I did. It was a bumpy road for me, but it was all worth it. The MBM experience was something I wouldn’t trade for anything else.

Which leads me to my final point. Life is never smooth-sailing. Grad school is no exception, especially when you have a job and other responsibilities on top of your studies. But a mantra kept me going: Let all that you do be done in love (1 Corinthians 16:14). Life isn’t easy. I’m pretty sure each one of us, graduates, had gazillion bouts of stress, panic attacks, and moments of self-doubt. There had been times when we’d ask, ‘what have I gotten myself into?’ or the more familiar version of ‘nganong ni-enter pa man ko?’

There were times when we start to doubt ourselves and our capacity to move forward. It happened in school, and it certainly will happen more often in the real world. But I learned that whenever doubt finds its way into our hearts and minds, we just need to take a deep breath and wait it out. Breathe it all in. Love it all out. It may not automatically make everything better, but it would definitely give us enough inspiration and motivation to push forward; to move a little closer towards our dreams – for ourselves, for our families, for the community, for our future.

Let me end this talk with this message: The power of education can’t be measured, unless you count its power to create a career, a life, provide for a family and most importantly, pave the way for a better tomorrow. As we soon leave the premises of MSU-IIT as graduates, we hold that power in our hands. We have been blessed to be where we are right now. May we not forget to look out for opportunities to be a blessing to others as well.

Thank you. Congratulations, and may the Almighty God bless us all.

30th: 10 Stories, 10 Truths, 10 Intentions (part 1 of 3)

2015-02-27T12:00:00.000+08:00

Well hello there, three-oh! ;) Funny how days and years fly by.

Three-oh. Thirty. 30. I am 30!

I miss making lists for my annual birthday post. When I turned 26, I had 26 things to be grateful for. For my 27th, I shared 27 life lessons. But I had simpler and shorter posts for my 28th and 29th birthday because I realized that the lists are getting longer and longer each year, and it is becoming harder and harder to comply. :p

But now, I am turning thirty. It's a milestone. Something special.

And because 30 is admittedly a rather long list, this is going to be a three-part series: (a) 10 Stories, (b) 10 Truths, and (c) 10 Intentions. So here goes...

10 Stories

This is a #throwback of sorts to the past 10 years of my life. Here, I share some stories (and thoughts and lessons) that made me who I am today. Chos. Well, these are just 10 #hugot posts from the past, usually my lame attempts at poetry. Haha!

Anyways, it was unbelievably fun reading through old posts --- brings back memories and stories. So yes, it's indeed true that you just laugh about what made you cry in the past. ;)

In all honesty though, it's kinda hard to share all these now, which explains why #1 on the list is really #1. But whatever! I'll just distract you with images and posters and colorful whatnot. Haha!

Note: The images are linked to the respective blog post. But there are some that I have purposefully left out. ;)

1. on secrets | 01.15.09

Because it's not always easy to open up.

2. on being young | 11.21.09

Because the mistakes made while still young prepare you to handle the future a little better.

3. on confusion and questions left unanswered | 07.31.08
Because there will always be things that are hard to figure out.

4. on (almost) giving up | 11.29.09

Because sometimes, life gives you something that's seemingly unbearable.

5. on frustrations and defeat | 04.06.09

Because not all battles are won.

6. on forgiveness | 05.15.09

Because some people, no matter how close you are or how much you love each other, can hurt you at one point or another. It's important to learn to forgive.

7. on change | 06.28.08

Because you will always have the power to change your life.

7. on hope | 11.12.13

Because hope keeps us all going.

8. on happiness | 11.12.11

Because happiness, really, is a choice.

9. on love | 01.02.15

Because love... is love. ;)

10. on being a work in progress | 09.27.09

Because aren't we all?

*All posters made through Canva.

[Skin Care] Proactiv Renewing Cleanser

2015-02-24T17:37:00.000+08:00

I was one of those teenagers who didn't necessarily bother much with skin care. Not that I wasn't hygienic enough. It's just that I didn't need much. A "ritual" of soap and water was enough. But apparently, soap and water no longer works for a bad case of adult acne, especially when your hormones had gone gaga and your stress level is off the charts.

Well, one of the best ways to deal with stubborn acne is to keep the facial area clean. There are tons of cleansers in the supermarket, and perhaps one of the best is Proactiv. ;)

Proactiv Renewing Cleanser is an oil-free, soap-free medicated formula that contains advanced micro crystal benzoyl peroxide in combination with mild cleanser that lightly washes the skin. Tiny beads gently exfoliate dead cells and impurities so they can’t clog pores. The benzoyl peroxide penetrates the pores fast while being gentle to the skin. It attacks, kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce the number of acne pimples.

Key Ingredients

Benzoyl Peroxide. This is the key antibacterial agent to fight acne. The 2.5% concentration is just effective as 10% solutions in controlling the majority of acne cases and much gentler to your skin. This low concentration gives it the acne-fighting benefit of even higher concentrations, but not the side-effects!
Sodium Hyaluronate. This mucopolysaccharides act as humectant to draw moisture to skin. Mucopolysaccharides are gel-like substances surrounding the collagen and elastin in the dermis layer of the skin.
Polyethylene. These small round beads have no sharp edges that can tear and scratch the skin while they gently remove old, dead cells.
Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract. A botanical extract known for its soothing properties.

Directions to Use

Use morning and night.
Apply a small (dime-sized) amount to damp skin and gently massage for 1 to 2 minutes
Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Pat dry.
If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every other day
If going outside, use a sunscreen

Important Note: I used this product, and it leaves the skin feel clean but dry. So I reduced application to once every couple of days. In between, I use milder facial cleansers.

Why is Proactiv Renewing Cleanser superior than regular cleanser / soap?

While it may seem counterintuitive, harsh scrubbing does not unclog your pores any better than gentle cleansing, and may actually worsen your acne. Cleansing and scrubbing only reduce surface oils and dean skin cells. Many people use harsh products, laden with alcohol and foamy surfactants (detergents) somehow wash the acne off their skin. However, these actions produce irritation and worsen acne. It is possible to gently unplug pores with fine polyethylene beads that gently relieve impacted pores without irritation.

Proactiv Renewing Cleanser does not contains any surfactants that can harsh the skin. It is formulated without the harsh detergents known as surfactants found in many other cleansers. Surfactants, which are responsible for a sudsy foam and lather, strip skin of its essential oils. As a result, the skin barrier becomes damaged and vulnerable to irritation and impaction.

What is the role of Renewing Cleanser in Proactiv Combination Therapy?

The Renewing Cleanser help removes dead skin cells and impurities which can clog the pore. The advanced microcrystal benzoyl peroxide in the Proactiv® 3-Step System kill acne-causing bacteria while the glycolic acid and other exfoliants reduce excess oils and dead skin cells.

The Proactiv Renewing Cleanser is included in the Proactiv Solution 30-day and 60-day kits. Proactiv Solution kits are available at:

Proactiv Online Shopping: http://my.proactiv.com.ph
Proactiv Delivery Door–to-Door Hotlines: Metro Manila Landline: (02) 729-2222; Globe Provincial: 1-800-8-729-8888; PLDT Provincial: 1-800-10-889-4444; Mobile Number: 0917-801-888
Proactiv Mall Kiosks: Glorietta (Ground Floor); Trinoma (2nd Floor)
Watson and SM Department Stores (Beauty Section) nationwide

[Proactiv] Get a Discount on Wen Cleansing Conditioner With Every Purchase of Proactiv Kit

2015-01-10T10:19:00.000+08:00

Some good news from our friends at Proactiv: Proactiv has a new exclusive product bundle available online at http://my.proactiv.com.ph. A discount on Wen Cleansing Conditioner is being offered if purchased with a Proactiv kit.

Mechanics:

Proactiv customers purchasing a Proactiv kit (30-day or 60-day) from the Proactiv Philippines Online shopping site http://my.proactiv.com.ph can choose to upgrade their kits with an additional product, Wen Cleansing Conditioner 350ml at Php250 discount (if purchased with 30-day kit) or at Php400 discount (if purchased with 60-day kit).

Promo Period:

This bundle will be valid until May 15, 2015.

How to Avail:

Visit http://my.proactiv.com.ph and create an account.
Browse the shopping site for products you like, or go straight to http://my.proactiv.com.ph/products.htm. The Proactiv 60-day tab shows a window at the right side indicating Php 400 discount on Wen Cleansing Conditioner 350ml if you bundle it with your kit purchase. The Proactiv 30-day kit tab shows a similar window indicating Php 250 discount on Wen Cleansing Conditioner 350ml if you bundle it with your 30-day kit purchase.
The discount on Wen Cleansing Conditioner is available only for purchases of Proactiv 30 day and Proactiv 60 day kits.
For customers who shall avail of the Proactiv money back guarantee, please note that Wen and its equivalent purchase price is excluded from the refund value.
Nationwide free delivery applies to orders of this bundle.

Unpublished Status Posts

2015-01-02T19:59:00.000+08:00

Ever wanted to post something on Facebook just to let something out but ended up holding back? I have -- a number of times, actually.

I have had random moments of epiphany coupled with a fleeting state of pseudo-brilliance that I thought would have been interesting to be shared on social media -- cryptic and totally random as the said posts may be. But more often than not, right before I click the 'Post' button, I pause, take a deep breath, and delete. I have three options then: (1) post it on Twitter because there will be a lesser probability of it being read after all; (2) write it down on a private note maybe for future reference of the moments of ka-OAhan and kaartehan; or (3) scrap it and forget about it altogether.

In the spirit of New Year (and well, letting go by letting it out of my system), I scanned through those that fell under option #2. It was a fun, a little crazy, and overly madrama, and sharing some of those here was surprisingly liberating. Haha! Read on.

022714: So this is how it feels to be 29! The final stretch of my twenties -- as in only a year before I hit the big three-oh.
I have always imagined that I will have an "oh-em-gee, I'm almost 30!" state of inner panic. I have a mental note to "cut me some slack" and have even forgiven myself in advance in case I go on a manic-depressive mode. Haha! But except for a couple of days ago when I had disturbing dreams of murder and scorpions chewing me up, everything is pretty normal. But seriously?! Murder and scorpions? Whoah. What does it mean?

051314: Note to self: Take it slow once in a while. Do not look too far in the future that you fail to enjoy the present. Fall in love -- truly, madly, deeply. Take time to savor the to-forever-and-beyond kind of love.

071314: Maybe it's time to face what I had been too stubborn to face. I know it's not gonna be easy, but in my heart of hearts, I know I'm getting there. The first step is always the hardest, and I have bravely taken it by accepting that I really am scared to the bones of baring myself... of falling in love.

080114: Here's the danger: When your likes become loves and your loves become cravings. Be careful.

120114: My heart is beating like crazy -- the way it does when something really, really good or really, really bad is about to happen. Here's to hoping it's the former. OR it could be just the coffee doing its thing.

122114: The tears were just there when I woke up. My pillow a little wet, and I felt a momentary sensation of sadness and grief. I couldn't even remember the faces in my dream. But the feelings were too real, too raw. As if I went through it all myself. Mixed emotions of rage and sympathy, hatred and love; of chaos and harmony, of confusion, of understanding.

Ha! Ang arte lang!

On Approaching Three-Oh and Life's Limitless Possibilities

2014-12-29T09:46:00.000+08:00

Life never runs out of options, and it's never as simple as choose either A or B. More often than not, choices can be from 1 to gazillion. Yes, every single day in our lives, we are faced with alternatives that are infinite, unbounded, and limitless.

As we are nearing a new year (and well, I am fast approaching a third decade in my life), it's the perfect opportunity to revisit our life goals and evaluate where we are and where we ought to be.

The importance of our twenties need not be stressed. It is that crucial moment in our lives when we make many major life decisions that are going to affect the rest of our lives: What kind of person will you be? What will you do for work? Are you going to have your own business? Will you get married or are you going to be perpetually single? It is in our twenties that we realize that indeed, #iamlimitless!

On my journey to the mighty three-oh in 2015, my list of intentions included to take better care of myself and start working toward financial freedom. I have always been fond of sleeping late, and I have irregular eating habits. Plus I eat stress for breakfast! And unfortunately, it slowly shows on my skin. But because life is full of amazing possibilities, I had the opportunity to try a line of products from a Filipino company, Limitless Possibilities, a couple of months ago.

Limitless Possibilities Products

Limitless Facial Wash
The Limitless Facial wash uses Green Tea Fragrance as well as a natural multi-fruit ingredient for cell renewal, firming and soothing. It also has Zemea for moisturizing. Skin is made firmer to the touch. Its natural moisturizers leave you with fresh, limitless comfort all day, everyday.

Tamara Body Lotion Night / Day
Fun Fact: Tamara Body Day and Night Lotion was named after Tamara, a surfer, film maker, independent woman whose name Ta-Mara means 'from the sea.'

Body Lotion for Day with organic sun protection for the woman on the go. Get Limitless protection from harmful UV rays everywhere. With SPF 35 UVA+UVB, you're sure to have protection whether you're at the beach and even in the city.

For the woman at rest. Limitless protection continues while you sleep with the Body Lotion for Night. Algowhite boosters harvested from the sea repair and lighten skin so that you awaken with a radiant glow. It's non-sticky and will not leave marks on your bed sheets and clothes while you are sleeping.

Limitless Facial Toner
This product is used after washing your face, twice a day. This is a one-of-a-kind all natural product that hydrates and tones the skin without the sting. What is nice about this is you only need three pumps of the Limitless Facial Toner so the bottle actually lasts long.

Limitless Beauty Face Cream
This is the company's top-of-the-line product -- your partner for the look of limitless confidence everyday. Harnessing the best of nature’s anti-aging and whitening ingredients, fortified with organic sunscreen, combined with natural moisturizers that leaves your complexion radiant all day long. It uses natural fruit-based moisturizers making the product safe for all ages.

Limitless Body soap
The soap is formulated with Algowhite and Papaya using Coconut Oil as a base. It has a unique pink grapefruit scent that leaves a fresh feeling on your body.

------

Limitless Possibilities is a direct selling Filipino company that manufacture skin care products with ingredients from Europe. But more than a skincare company, they are a social selling alternative for the young entrepreneurs, empowering the younger generation to realize limitless possibilities through online entrepreneurship. For someone who aims to take better care of themselves and at the same time earn, Limitless Possibilities is worth checking out. :)

[Skin Care] Why the Benzoyl Peroxide in Proactiv is Superior to Other Anti-Acne Treatments

2014-10-29T08:33:00.000+08:00

What do you do if you wake up one day in your late 20's, and you see a horrible, horrible breakout of facial acne? Something you never had even as a teenager.

That unfortunately happened to me. As a teenager, I had pimples (papules) on my forehead and some on the back during stressful periods in college. Those were easily manageable; nothing serious. It was only during my late 20's when the breakouts became worse that I had to see a dermatologist. I had pustules and cysts already! Such a terrible case of acne, apparently due to a good combination of stress, sedentary lifestyle, and hormones going gaga.

So again, what do you if you wake up one day and see a horrible breakout of facial acne? Well, the best thing to do is to research treatment options. You know it can be really difficult and overwhelming when you are bombarded with tons of products in the market.

Here's what I found out about Proactiv Solution 3-Step System:

When it comes to preventing acne breakouts and blemishes, the Proactiv Solution 3-Step System is the leading pimple-fighter. Proactiv treats acne safely and effectively by attacking it at the source where a build-up of dead skin cells and bacteria clogs your pores.

Mild enough to use every day, Proactiv gently cleans and unplugs your pores and kills acne causing bacteria. The combination of medicines penetrates deep into your skin to destroy the bacteria and help reduce inflammation and heals the lesion. Your skin clears without the drying, peeling or chemical smell you may find in other products.

The Proactiv Renewing Cleanser (Step 1) and Repairing Treatment (Step 3) contain finely-milled, prescription-grade benzoyl peroxide with soothing botanicals. Together, these ingredients gently exfoliate your skin, unplug your pores and attack acne-causing bacteria. The Revitalizing Toner helps remove excess oils and dead skin cells to prevent future breakouts, and the Refining Mask helps reduce inflammation. When used together regularly, Proactiv not only eradicates pimples but also importantly prevent future breakouts.

Benzoyl peroxide is a powerful ingredient that is effective against all kinds of acne (blackheads, whiteheads, and big red pimples). It is bactericidal, meaning it kills bacteria, rather than simply slowing down their growth. It also works very quickly improving acne as early as five days after starting treatment. It’s a great first line treatment but it’s also helpful to use in combination with antibiotics for severe cases. It may cause drying, peeling or redness if not delivered in the right amount (too strong concentrations) or surrounded by the right mix of ingredients. Proactiv’s 2.5% benzoyl peroxide concentration is mild, yet powerful enough to kill acne causing bacteria. It is finely milled, with proprietary advanced microcrystals that delivers the medicine without irritating the skin. This benzoyl peroxide technology is unique to Proactiv.

And to provide you with a stronger arsenal to fight acne, Proactiv released a Limited Edition 60-Day Bundle Pack with upsized Refining Mask (2.5oz instead of the regular 1oz) and Free 50ml Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control. These are exclusively available at Watsons and SM Department stores nationwide.

[Event] Breeze pays tribute to hardworking hero moms with nationwide 1 Laba Day

2014-09-19T09:04:00.003+08:00

Celebrating the heroes of the home, Breeze treated more than 19,000 hardworking moms across the Philippines to a day of rest, games and exciting surprises at the first-ever 1 Laba Day. The leading detergent brand took care of their laundry chores, washing a total of 481,536 clothes, in a series of events held simultaneously in multiple barangays in Metro Manila, Pangasinan, Batangas, Cebu, and Davao.

Celebrity moms and surprise guests, including Sige Moms Christine Bersola-Babao, Gladys Reyes and Dimples Romana, headlined the nationwide events. At Barangay Commonwealth in Quezon City, radio DJ Laila Chikadora also kept the crowd entertained with her witty jokes and led the fun bingo games where moms won bicycles, skateboards, inflatable swimming pools and other toys for their children. These prizes were meant to encourage moms to be Sige Moms who let their kids play and go on exciting adventures.

While the moms enjoyed their day off from doing the laundry, Breeze Laba Ladies and Laba Machines, sponsored by campaign partners Electrolux, LG, Whirlpool and White Westinghouse, took care of washing their clothes.

“We know how hardworking our mommies are, spending as much as three to four hours a day doing the laundry. Today, Breeze is taking care of washing their clothes so they can have some time for themselves and to have fun, as our way of thanking them and recognizing their admirable efforts,” said Mara Banson, Breeze brand manager.

“As part of the Circle of Sige Moms, our job is to encourage mommies to allow their kids to be kids, even if it means getting dirty or having stained clothes,” said Christine. “When we say yes to playing and going on adventures, we say yes to our children’s intellectual, emotional and physical growth.”

“My daughter Callie is very artsy and likes working with her hands. We love baking and often, we’d be covered in icing and food color of every hue,” said Sige Mom Dimples. “But I’m glad I allowed her to do that, because it’s very fulfilling when you see your child achieve great things because you allow them to do their own thing and pursue their passions.”

“Being a mom is a 24/7 job,” added Sige Mom Gladys. “But because we have a dependable partner in Breeze, doing the laundry becomes easier and effortless. We can spend less time on washing clothes and have more time for ourselves and our family.”

1 Laba guarantee

Boasting of a revolutionary formulation, Breeze with ActivBleach empowers mommies everywhere to take on their endless tasks, removing even the toughest of stains in just one wash. Safe for both white and colored clothes, Breeze has a four-enzyme technology that removes more types of stains and a patented whitening technology that delivers visible whiteness in just one wash.

Breeze with ActivBleach is also the first and only detergent brand with melamine perfume encapsulation technology that blooms in wash and bursts in wear, making sure that clothes keep smelling clean and fresh even when worn. It even has a unique active system for better foam profile and quicker lather, plus percarbonate TAED bleach that takes out bleachable stains without harming the environment.

From September 1 to 7, mommies can also win a washing machine from Breeze in the Breeze 1Laba Challenge promo. To join, participants simply need to like the official Breeze Facebook page www.facebook.com/breezephilippines and look for the 1 Laba Day status update. They should then leave a comment on the post, with a photo of themselves doing the 1 Laba pose holding a Breeze pack and using the hashtag #Breeze1Laba.

Take on millions of stains in just one wash with Breeze with ActivBleach, available in three sizes at supermarkets and groceries nationwide: 70g, 700g and 1450g packs.

Today's Craving: Suman at Tsokolate

2014-09-18T20:47:00.002+08:00

In a bed weather such as today, there's nothing more perfect than to curl up with a good book, enjoying the comfort of hot tsokolate paired with suman with pinipig.

In photo is the specialty of Seagull Mountain Resort coffee shop in Marilog, along Buda (Bukidnon-Davao) Road in Mindanao. Suman is glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and often steamed wrapped in banana leaves, and tsokolate or sikwate is hot chocolate.

[Skin Care] Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control

2014-09-15T17:45:00.002+08:00

It doesn’t take too much to sweat and feel moisture if you live in a humid country. Humidity causes your skin to produces more oil and make you prone to breakouts.

I have never suffered from acne but I do get those stubborn, pesky pimple that just won’t go away. Products with salicylic acid can avoid over production of moisture and oil. I always find a product with salicylic acid to be effective in removing that itch and germs accompanied by pimples or acne. Excessive use of acne treatment products can be drying to the skin. I would only use acne treatment

products as spot treatment.

The Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control helps eliminate shine. It’s safe for daily use as this is a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer and control makeup from streaking. Who needs an extra layer of makeup base? For oily type of skin like mine, this is heaven-sent. I believe in having good skin than having a flawless makeup covered face.

Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control now comes for free with the Proactiv 60-Day Limited Edition Pack. You can buy this limited edition pack at your nearest Watsons and SM Department Stores nationwide. Look out for the red “Special Limited Edition” sticker. When buying, ask for the item as dummy boxes are used for display purposes.

The Proactiv 60-Day Kit Limited Edition pack is complete set of Proactiv 60-day supply, with an upsized Refining Mask (from 1oz to 2.5oz) and Free Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control 50ml - all for the same price of Php 3,995 only.

Contents:

Proactiv Renewing Cleanser 120ml (inside the box)
Proactiv Revitalizing Toner 120ml (inside the box)
Proactiv Repairing Treatment 60ml (inside the box)
Proactiv Refining Mask – upsized from 1oz to 2.5oz (inside the box)
Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control (shrink-wrapped with the box)

#KitchenAdventures: Adobo Spaghetti with Nuts

2014-08-24T09:48:00.000+08:00

Oh pasta! It's easy. It's fun. It's widely varied. Perhaps that's why pasta is my favorite go-to ingredient in my random Kitchen Adventures.

Whenever I feel stressed and kind of lost in a pile of to-do lists, I head to the kitchen to somehow take my mind off work for a bit and refocus on how to tackle the rest of the day. It's always a welcome and productive distraction. Oh the perks of working at home! ;)

Anyhoo, here's one of the products of those days: Adobo Spaghetti -- just because I wanted to incorporate something innately Pinoy to a largely Italian dish.

First off: I'd like to put it out there. When I cook, I don't necessarily take note of measurements. I live by the concept of tantya-metry (from the Tagalog word tantya, meaning estimate) in the kitchen. So if you want to re-create the dish, feel free to adjust according to your preference.

Ingredients

Yield: serves 4

175 g uncooked spaghetti (I used Del Monte Spaghetti, Merienda Pack)
1 cup pork, medium diced (about 1/2 in x 1/2 in x 1/2 in)
1 onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 piece tomato, chopped
1 piece bell pepper
4 tablespoons soy sauce, adjust according to taste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons vinegar
1 teaspoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons evaporated milk
Laurel leaves
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
salt and black pepper
chili powder (optional)
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped peanuts
fresh basil leaves for garnish

Preparation

Cook pasta according to package directions.
Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
Slowly stir-fry the fatty portion of the pork until crispy. You can leave the oil from the pork in the pan to use for sauteing.
Add garlic and onion to pan; cook until onion becomes translucent and garlic becomes golden brown. It would be a good idea to put in a pinch of salt at this point to bring out the flavors.
Stir in tomatoes and bell pepper.
Add in the remainder of the diced pork. Adjust to low heat.
Add 1 cup of hot pasta water. Mix in the soy sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, dried laurel leaves, salt, and pepper. Add the evaporated milk. You can also sprinkle chili powder for that extra kick.
Bring it to a simmer over low heat and cook until sauce is reduced to just enough to coat the pasta. This will take several minutes.
Remove from heat. Stir in pasta, crushed nuts (for texture), and grated Parmesan cheese.
For garnish, I added fresh basil leaves and tomato along with the Parmesan cheese and nuts sprinkled on top.

That's it. Easy-peasy, right? :)

Skin Care 101: Benzoyl Peroxide

2014-07-31T00:01:00.000+08:00

Choosing a product to help with your acne problem can be overwhelming, frustrating and potentially dangerous, considering that there are a lot of medications sprouting out claiming that they can treat acne. But can they really treat acne?

For years now, the gold standard of treating mild to moderate acne is the benzoyl peroxide. This is because it is a topical antimicrobial medicine, an oxidizing agent that specifically kills P. acnes, the bacteria that cause acne breakouts. To a lesser extent, it also helps to unblock pores and has an anti-inflammatory effect. BPO is not an antibiotic, and in 50 years of use, there has never been a documented case of BPO bacterial resistance; it is the cornerstone of prescription and over-the-counter acne therapy.

And Proactiv Solution knows that. That’s why Proactiv Solution has Micro-crystals (micro-crystal medicine) benzoyl peroxide. The exclusive form of benzoyl peroxide (BPO) found in the Proactiv 3-Step System’s Renewing Cleanser (Step 1) and Repairing Treatment (Step 3). A crystalline BPO that is finely milled in order to achieve the pore penetration required to control the acne cycle. The Proactiv micro-crystal BPO features exceptionally small and uniform particles—designed specifically to penetrate pores faster and to be gentler on the skin.

Other Ways to Treat Acne

Proactiv Solution vs. Soap

While it may seem counter-intuitive, harsh scrubbing does not unclog your pores any better than gentle
cleansing, and may actually worsen your acne. Cleansing and scrubbing only reduce surface oils and dead skin cells. Many people use harsh products, laden with alcohol and foamy surfactants (detergents) somehow wash the acne off their skin. However, these actions often produce irritation and worsen acne. It is possible to gently unplug pores with fine polyethylene beads that gently relieve impacted pores without irritation.

Proactiv Solution does not contain any surfactants that can harsh the skin.

Proactiv® Renewing Cleanser is formulated without the harsh detergents, known as surfactants, found in many other cleansers. Surfactants, which are responsible for a sudsy foam and lather, strip skin of its essential oils. As a result, the skin’s barrier becomes damaged and vulnerable to irritation and infection.

Proactiv Solution vs. Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid in a cleanser breaks through the plug but does not kill the P. acnes bacteria, the bacteria that cause acne breakouts.

Acne is caused by a variety of factors that take place below the surface of the skin. That’s why it’s best to gently wash with a medicated cleanser with proven ingredients, like benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur, that can penetrate the skin to help unclog pores, kill bacteria and/or reduce inflammation.

Proactiv Solution vs. Oral Drugs

When acne is severe, dermatologists sometimes prescribe oral drugs like isotretinoin or hormonal pills.
There are studies that support that these methods are extremely effective for severe cases, but because
of the nature of these drugs there are side effects that make it questionable if the benefits truly outweigh the cost. For example, there were reports in 2010 linking suicidal tendencies and psychotic behaviors among acne patients on isotretinoin. Hormonal pills, which are mainly indicated as a contraceptive sometimes causes water retention, weight gain, mood swings, and in the long run, even breast cancer.

Proactiv Solution does not have these side effects!

Conclusion

Proactiv Solution is safe and effective in treating and preventing acne. It's gentler than soap, more effective than salicylic acid, and much safer than oral drugs. So if you're still in the market for a solution for your acne problems, give Proactiv Solution a try.

For more info about Proactiv Solution, visit http://my.proactiv.com.ph.

[Event] Alaxan FR returns to VisMin for Court of Inspiration Year 3

2014-07-21T13:48:00.002+08:00

After a successful year of producing talented basketball players from Luzon, Alaxan FR continues its Court of Inspiration campaign by constructing basketball courts in barangays in Visayas and Mindanao, including General Santos, Bohol, Tagum, Bacolod, Roxas and Ozamis.

Photo Credit: Iligan Inquisitor

With the courts’ construction, Alaxan FR recognizes the resilient heart of Filipinos and lets them achieve more by enabling them to conquer body pain: “The Filipino courageous spirit and perseverance are some of the things Alaxan FR supports. However, the strong heart of the Filipino to overcome challenges of life needs the strength of the body, and that’s where Alaxan FR comes in,” said Missy Cheah, Assistant Brand Manager of Alaxan.

“Ang pinoy, palaban ang puso nyan. Hindi basta basta sumusuko. Buong tapang niyang hinaharap ang anumang pagsubok. Ngunit may pagkakataon, kahit palaban ang puso, ang katawan nanghihina sa laban. Dyan papasok ang Alaxan. Ang katawang Alaxan, di sumusuko sa sakit, sumasabay sa pusong palaban ng Pilipino,” she added.

The courts also serve as a beacon for people’s dreams: “We want to empower the people of the communities we reach out to who work hard to achieve their dreams, and one way of achieving that is through the Filipino quality of the bayanihan spirit. Our Courts of Inspiration firmly believes in this Filipino quality and it is its reason for being,” she adds.

The Court of Inspiration slowly molded a new lifestyle in the communities where the basketball courts were previously built, turning them into not just athletic centers but landmarks and venues for community activities.

Two years ago, Alaxan FR jump-started an endeavor to help build basketball courts and provide a backbone against pain for the strong will of potential basketball stars in the country. Starting off in its first year in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, the Court of Inspiration became a herald of hope and unity. After pre-selecting the towns to build the basketball courts on, Alaxan FR provided the necessary construction materials, securing a partnership with the local government to mobilize the townspeople in constructing the play centers. On its second year, Alaxan FR added 10 more Courts of Inspiration in Luzon.

The turnover ceremonies of the courts are graced by the presence of PBA Legends, a handful of hardcourt heroes known for their stellar professional careers such as Benjie Paras, Ronnie Magsanoc, Alvin Patrimonio, Jerry Codiñera and Johnny Abarrientos further firing up the basketball spirit among fans in the community.

Photo Credit: Iligan Inquisitor

Construction of the courts take an estimated 21 days, including excavation, laying the concrete, installation of the basketball rings and painting the court marks. Current Courts of Inspiration are located in Cebu, Cagayan De Oro, Tacloban, Zamboanga, Bacolod, Iloilo, Dumaguete, Butuan, Sarangani and Davao in the Visayas-Mindanao area. Luzon likewise also has ten courts in Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Pangasinan, Batangas, Tuguegarao, Cauayan, Vigan, Laoag, Naga and Legaspi.

The Court of Inspiration does not stop with their construction. Alaxan FR has a vision, of constructing a Court of Inspiration for each major city nationwide in the years to come. It hopes to continue as well discovering and developing the basketball talents of our fellow Filipinos through this project.

Proactiv #Unselfie Campaign

2014-06-05T16:57:00.000+08:00

Time magazine’s recent award to the Philippines as the selfie capital of the world is probably the ultimate testament to how Filipinos love sharing their selfies. Selfies are the ultimate ways of self-expression on social media, and Proactiv recognizes the importance of confidence to people as they share their photos.

A lot of people have resorted to using various filters and photo editing apps for their “selfies” as they want to hide their acne from their friends and the public. With the help of Photoshop, Snapseed, and filters on Instagram, they can already post their perfect selfies. However, Proactiv wants to encourage netizens to address acne for real, and be proactive – thus the Unselfie campaign is born. Instead of posting an edited image, they are encouraged to post an unedited photo of themselves with an unselfie pledge placard:

If you want free Proactiv 30-day kit, you might want to join the campaign:

How to Join:

Like “Proactiv Solution Philippines” Facebook Page or follow Proactiv Philippines Instagram Account, “@ProactivPH”
Write a pledge in a piece of paper “I need to be Proactiv”, “#Unselfie” and “#BeProactiv.”
Take a “selfie” with the pledge placard and post it at:

Proactiv Solution Philippines Facebook Account
Their personal Instagram Account and must tag @ProactivPH

Prizes: There will be three winners of Proactiv 30 Day Kit per week.

[Product Review] Asian Secrets Lulur Indonesian Whitening Body Scrub

2014-04-14T00:35:00.002+08:00

How often do you use body scrubs?

Me? I don't. :p

Well, at least not until I got hold of Asian Secrets Lulur Indonesian Whitening Body Scrub (whew! what a name!) This was part of the loot bag from IBS, Inc's Waterfalling Adventure Tour 2.0. I got curious and gave it a try.

What is it?

The product is "a beauty treatment which originates from the royal palaces of Java, Indonesia and inspired by a ritual called lulur. Lulur was originally intended for the bride-to-be in order to beautify, smoothen, and whiten her skin before her wedding day."

What it Claims:

According to the label, the benefits of the Asian Secrets Lulur Indonesian Whitening Body Scrub include:

Lulur beads gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells to smoothen and give it a radiant glow.
Frequent usage reduces skin pigmentation and evens out skin tone by getting rid of dark patches, especially in areas prone to darkening like elbows, knees, armpits and the area between the thighs.
Contains Seaweed Extract and Vitamin E to help protect the skin and keep it healthy.
It also moisturizes and leaves skin with a light fragrant scent.

After using the body scrub for a while, here's what I think:

What I like about the Body Scrub:

I like the texture and consistency of the product, both creamy and grainy. Its creaminess makes it easy to apply on the skin, while the rich grainy feeling assures thorough exfoliation.
The lulur beads quickly removes the superficial dead skin cells to reveal the fresh ones underneath, leaving the skin instantly looking more youthful.
It also effectively moisturizes the skin. When dead skin cells are removed through the gentle exfoliating action of a body scrub, moisturizer can be absorbed better.
It contains seaweed extract and vitamin E to keep skin healthy.
It's hypoallergenic.
It is available locally.
It smells nice.

What I don't like about the Body Scrub:

As far as the whitening power goes, I haven't noticed significant change in color yet. Maybe it's because I haven't been using the product long enough, or I've been exposed to too much sun to notice the change.
It would be nice if it's available in travel size for people who love to travel as well as those who want to just test it out first.

Conclusion:

Body scrubs are a way to give skin a youthful glow while helping moisturizer do its job better. Asian Secrets Lulur Indonesian Whitening Body Scrub is perhaps one of the best body scrubs in the market today. More details of the product HERE.

Notes:

For external use only. If product gets into eyes, rinse thoroughly with water. Discontinue use if irritation or rash occurs.
Do not be too aggressive in using the product. You don't need to apply much pressure since the scrub particles provide the abrasive action. Too much pressure can cause skin irritation and scratches.
Apply a small amount to scrub gently in a circular motion, slowly moving down the body from shoulders to feet.

Ready to reveal your glowing summer skin yet? ;)

Disclosure: I received the product mentioned above for free as part of a loot bag from Unilab for the participants of last year's Waterfalling Adventure Tour 2.0 hosted by Iligan Bloggers Society, Inc. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

[Skin Care] How to Avoid Vacation Acne Breakouts

2014-03-28T07:42:00.000+08:00

Summer's here! Perfect time to travel and explore places. :)

But travel is not all that glamorous and fabulous. Imagine the unbearable heat that makes the skin extra oily and sweaty. Summer makes your skin exposed to more sun and more dirt. You know what that means, right?

Of course, taking a vacation is no excuse for your skin regimen to take a vacation too. You have to bring your skin care products -- even if it means half of your backpack is your kikay kit! Okay, I'm kidding. Proactiv got that covered. You can bring the maintenance kit during your travels and still travel light.

Proactiv 15-Day Maintenance Kit is now available in the Philippines. It’s compact and easy to carry, and comes with a Free Pouch and Free Refining Mask. The Proactiv Solution 15-Day Maintenance Kit is made especially for existing users of Proactiv who prefer a 15-day supply, and for regular users on the go.

Proactiv 15 Day Maintenance Kit is perfect for travel!

This handy travel kit makes it easy to maintain your acne-treatment regimen at the gym or on the road. Kit includes the complete 3-Step System-Renewing Cleanser, Revitalizing Toner and Repairing Treatment-in three 1-oz. take-aboard bottles. Comes with Free Refining Mask! The snap-close pouch is 3.75 x 4.25 x 1.25 inches and fits easily into a backpack, purse or gym bag.

Why is it important to use Proactiv Solution even when traveling?

Using the Proactiv® System every day, twice a day, is critical to maintaining clear skin. So it’s important to take Proactiv with you wherever you go. Proactiv 15-Day Maintenance Kit has everything you need to maintain your regimen, no matter where you are. The handy carrying pouch includes convenient 1-ounce bottles (approved for airport security) of your complete 3-Step System: Renewing Cleanser, Revitalizing Toner, and Repairing Treatment. It’s perfect for the gym or locker room, business trips or weekend getaways.

How much and where to buy?

Proactiv Solution 15-Day Maintenance kit is Php 1,650 ONLY-- available at selected Watsons and SM Department stores nationwide.

How does Proactiv work?

Proactiv works by intervening in the process of acne-formation therefore resulting to the treatment of your existing blemishes, and at the same time giving you the protection of preventing future pimples from ever appearing again.

From the moment you are born, your skin begins a lifelong process of shedding dead cells and producing oil. The acne cycle is initiated when excess oil and dead skin cells combine to plug the pore of a hair follicle; behind the plugged pore, bacteria grow and multiply, triggering inflammation and swelling. That’s an acne blemish.

Proactiv intervenes in this process by:

Killing the acne-causing bacteria
Reducing swelling and redness of existing pimples
Preventing pores from being clogged
Removing dead skin cells thru mild exfoliation
Removing excess oils

Happy summer, everyone! And safe travels!

29th: To Let Go and Let God

2014-02-27T10:09:00.000+08:00

So this is how it feels to be 29! The final stretch of my twenties -- as in only a year before I hit the big 3-0.

I have always imagined that I will have an "oh-em-gee, I'm almost 30!" state of inner panic. I have a mental note to "cut me some slack" and even forgiven myself in advance in case I go on a manic-depressive mode. Haha! But except for a couple of days ago when I had disturbing dreams of murder and scorpions chewing me up, everything is pretty normal.

Wait, wait, wait! Back up a little bit on the disturbing dreams: For someone like me who usually has dreamless nights, or maybe dreams but forgets everything 3 seconds after waking up, to remember the morbid dreams of me committing a murder was weird. So I looked up what the common interpretation would be:

To dream that you have committed a murder indicates that you are putting an end to an old habit and a former way of thinking... Alternatively, the dream indicates that you have some repressed aggression or rage at yourself or at someone. �

So it's either I have deep-seated angst or I just subconsciously need a changed way of thinking. Coolio!

Then, I also looked up what it meant to dream of scorpions:

The scorpion is also a symbol of death and rebirth. You need to get rid of the old and make room for something new. �

Ha! Common denominator: change. Perfect reminder of an upcoming birthday, eh?

I thought about it and tried to figure out what I would want to change this year. After hours and hours of deliberating (chos!), I have come up with an intention: To learn to let go of pain, fear, anger, and guilt. I'll let go of all the negative vibes and make room for more good. :)

So from here on out, with all my heart and soul, I will:

Happy 29th to me! <3 p="">

Proactiv Skin Care Advisors Program

2014-02-24T12:44:00.000+08:00

Nowadays, skin care seems to get more complicated. There are tons of products out there that promise smooth, youthful, and blemish-free skin. There are products designed for oily skin, dry skin, and "normal" skin. The more options in the market, the more confused and probably frustrated we get.

Before starting on a new skin regimen, it is best to seek the advice of experts. But a medical consultation could lead to more expenses. The next best thing? Consult the Proactiv Skin Care Advisors for free! They will help you:

Achieve your best results with Proactiv Solution
Answer any questions about using the products
Help you customize your Skin Care Routine for your specific skin type
Assist with any additional skincare questions you may have
Provide after-sales service

What are Proactiv Skin Care Advisors?

The Skin Care Advisor program was launched in January 2014 with the objective to provide the best information on acne care and Proactiv to our customers. Skin Care Advisors are technically Proactiv sales representative, deployed at selected Watsons stores and Proactiv mall kiosks: Trinoma, Glorietta 2 and Marquee Mall. If you're unable to visit them, you can simply call 729-2222 if you need advice.

Unlike ordinary sales personnel or promodisers, Skin Care Advisors are trained to offer free acne care advice and after-sales support for our customers. Having undergone the same training module created by Dr. Rodan and Dr. Fields, authors of "The Doctors' Secret to a Lifetime of Clear Skin," these are well-informed advisors and knowledgeable to answer queries about acne and Proactiv. Skin Care Advisors give customers one-on-one guidance on how to achieve a lifetime of clear skin.

Proactiv's initiative on providing this incredible service is a great help for Filipinos with skin problems. Not only is the service free and accessible, but most importantly, the Skin Care Advisors' expertise and knowledge help us understand acne better and clearer skin easier to achieve and maintain.

To learn more about Proactiv Skin Care Advisors, visit: http://my.proactiv.com.ph/skin-care-advisors.htm.

[Product Review] Proactiv Solution Daily Oil Control

2013-12-28T09:01:00.000+08:00

I recently received a Proactiv Solution Daily Oil Control (50mL) for review. It is a breakthrough facial lotion that eliminates shine and is designed to absorb excess oil to help give a more "mattified" appearance while helping the skin fight acne. This also helps the skin to remain soft, smooth and hydrated without looking or feeling greasy. After using it for a week, here's what I think:

What I like about the Daily Oil Control

It works well. It does exactly what it says, creating almost a mattifying mask over the skin.
It helps control oil and other impurities that may cause pores to clog.
It helps to add moisture to the skin without a greasy feel.
Less oil, more freshness. Skin feels squeaky clean after application, and it keeps you looking fresher for longer.
It helps prevent makeup from streaking throughout the day.
It smells nice.

Some Comments on the Product

Here are some things that I think can be improved on the product:

It burns a little bit on application.
It is very liquid, and thus easy to waste. It slides off your finger very fast if you don't apply it quickly to your face.
It is a little pricey.

Conclusion

The Proactiv Daily Oil Control is ideal for men and women with oily skin because it controls and balances the oil levels and gives a matte finish after using it. Use with caution for those who have sensitive skin.

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About the Product

Proactiv Solution Daily Oil Control gently balances oil levels, while keeping skin hydrated, healthy-looking, and shine-free. The light, oil-free formula contains skin conditioning ingredients especially designed to reduce sebum levels while controlling acne blemishes.

Key Ingredients

Decylene Glycol – a highly effective moisturizer and oil controller
Silicone blend – provides a moisture barrier to soften, soothe, and hydrate the skin
Nylon-12 – absorbs excess oil, and provides anti-shine properties

How does it complement the Proactiv 3 Step System?

Just a thin layer of Daily Oil Control reduces excess facial oil and balances your skin's natural oil level to get rid of shine. It also keeps makeup from streaking and helps keep pores from clogging while it hydrates skin, so it's great for your complexion.

Directions: Use after Repairing Treatment. Apply a thin layer to entire face with fingertips.

Where to buy?

a. Proactiv Online Shopping: http://my.proactiv.com.ph
b. Proactiv Door-to-Door Delivery Hotlines:
Metro Manila Landline: (02) 729-2222
Globe Provincial: 1-800-8-729-8888
PLDT Provincial: 1-800-10-889-4444
Mobile No.: 0917-801-8888
c. Proactiv Mall Kiosks
Ground Floor, Glorietta 2 - Contact Number: (02) 388 2848
2nd Floor, Trinoma - Contact Number: (02) 380 3801
Ground Floor, Marquee Mall - Contact Number: 0935.834.1523

SRP: Php 899, 50-mL tube

[Book Review] The Doctors' Secrets to a Lifetime of Clear Skin

2013-11-27T10:00:00.000+08:00

I was one of those teenagers who didn't necessarily bother much with skin care. Not that I wasn't hygienic enough. It's just that I didn't need much. A "ritual" of soap and water was enough. Yes, there were occasional breakouts brought about by irregular hormonal changes, but they were never to a degree that worried me. Not until I was in my late 20's.

Yep, it was only recently when I really needed to consult with a dermatologist and an OB/Gynecologist to check out what was happening. There must be something terribly wrong with my reproductive health to be able to have these kinds of breakouts at this point in my life!

So, I read more about acne -- its causes, treatment, and even misconceptions. Luckily, I got hold of this booklet by Drs. Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields, "The Doctors' Secret to a Lifetime of Clear Skin."

It is an easy-read guide with 30-doses of skin-care wisdom from the Stanford-trained dermatologists who revolutionized the treatment of acne. The booklet clearly delivers vital nuggets of skin-care knowledge that will guide you throughout your life without acne, all written in a fun-to-read, short-and-sweet style. You can even read the entire book in one sitting.

Drs. Rodan and Fields discussed acne, and debunked common myths -- like how chocolate, french fries and soda or occasionally forgetting to wash off your makeup do not cause acne; and how stress and maybe diet can sometimes trigger the acne process. There are tons of information in this tiny 67-page booklet, but it is generally easy to digest. No need to be a skin expert to be able to fully understand the concepts. The tips are also very practical and easy to follow, making a "lifetime of clear skin" truly an attainable goal.

About the Book
“The Doctors’ Secrets to a Lifetime of Clear Skin” by Drs. Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields comes FREE with every purchase of Proactiv 30-day or 60-day kit from Watsons, SM Department Stores, Proactiv mall kiosks, and Proactiv door-to-door delivery. The book is included in the kit.