Some Mood-lifting Products I Swear By

Once in a while, we just need some pick-me-up products that would help us get back on track. Whether we are too stressed because of work deadlines, slow Internet, epic traffic jam, our mothers, rude waiters or that long walk under the crazy humidity, there's always a way to turn the tables!

I've listed down the things/products that I've been using to help myself control the beast within. Nobody wants to deal with Ms. Wild Temper! If I ever join a beauty pageant, I'm still not gonna get the Ms. Congeniality award, but at least I'd like to tone down the moodiness even a few notches.

So, here goes...

1. Sheet Masks

I've been using Chinese and Korean sheet masks for years now. It's a good step to add to your skincare regimen especially if you don't have time to visit a dermatologist often. This is an inexpensive way to get that instant spa-like glow that you need after a long day or hell week. You will feel refreshed in just about 20-30 minutes.

2. Clay Mask/Wash Off Masks

Another type of mask that I've been using is a clay mask. Application is a bit different and you have to leave it on your skin for a shorter time. Clay masks are good for removing those deep-seated dirt in your skin. If you apply makeup quite often, you certainly need this! I'm using Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay from Origins. It’s a bit pricey but it’s totally worth it! Not a fan of fancy skincare products? You might wanna try other brands then. Just spend some time at the skincare or 'face care' section next time you visit Watsons. 

Sometimes, I'm using this 2-Minute Whitening Miracle from iWhite Korea, however, this is not a clay mask but a gel type of mask. 

3. Nose pack

I get really annoyed when I look in the mirror and see blackheads and whiteheads peeping at the corner of my nose. It makes me feel like I’m not washing my face thoroughly. So, at least once or twice a week, I try to put on a nose strip or nose pack to make sure that the area around my nose is blackhead-free! I’m using this iWhite Nose Pack, a Korean brand that you can purchase from 7-Eleven, Mercury drugstore or Watsons.

4. Foot Soak & Foot Scrub + Heel Cream

I say this quite often, but I really do care more about my feet than my face, haha! You can ruin my life but try not to step on my newly painted toe nails if you want to live a longer life. But aside from getting pedicures, I also try to treat my feet with foot soak & scrub. I’m using Foot Treats Evening Primrose whenever I feel like it.

I’ve also been walking around A LOT lately, so, hello calluses! I’ve been trying to use this DermAid moisturizing cream that I found at Watsons too in an attempt to heal my semi-cracked heels, boohoo!

5. Hand Lotion

I make sure to place this product on my office desk - that way I’d always remember to use it. I spend most of my time in front of the computer and typing on the keyboard, so, when I take breaks I make sure to use this hand lotion/hand cream as I give myself a hand massage. The combination of honey and vanilla scent helps me to stay awake somehow.

6. Face Mist

I strongly believe in aromatherapy, so, I was quite impressed when I purchased this facial mist from The Beauty Bakery (through Beauty MNL). This is actually a new beauty product that I’ve recently added to my beauty regimen. Aside from its hydrating and cooling effect on my face, the lemon scent also helps me to stay alert in the middle of the day.

7. Serum

Another thing that I’ve recently added on my stash of skincare products is this facial serum from Satinka Naturals. I started using serum just two months ago since I got free sample products from Origins. Their products are SO good but they are SO expensive as well, haha! Good thing I found this amazing local brand at a cozy restaurant not too far from my dorm. (Yes, at a restaurant!) The cool owner of that restaurant also makes products such as moisturizers, serums, shampoo and nourishing hair mask, to name a few. After using this product, you would immediately look a little less tired! This product claims to reduce stress and fatigue and if you don’t believe in magic, you better try this!

8. Eye Cream & Eye Mask

Another thing I’ve been obsessing about is the area around my eyes. Thanks to sleepless nights (a.k.a. anime binge-watching!) for making me look like a zombie most of the time, and of course, the never-ending adulting TO DO lists! Though I know that I actually need to get a good sleep to get rid of the dark circles, I still gave this product a try. Turns out, it's an awesome product that could prevent the development of crow's feet or laugh lines. Though it took me several days to see the results, I’m happy that I have found this holy grail. 

But before I found this Korean Snail Repair Cream from Mizon, I was using this Collagen Eye Zone Mask before I go to bed or before I put on my makeup in the morning to reduce the puffiness of my eyes. I also love the cooling effects of real cucumber, but I just couldn't stand the smell~ urgh!

9. Nourishing Hair Mask

One of my challenges the moment I get up is managing my hair, especially if I have to go outside, participate in the real world and actually talk to people. If I don't style it while it's still wet, I'm doomed for the rest of the day! If I'll just be bumming around at home (I meant my DORM!), I don't even feel the need to comb my hair. Apparently, good grooming means having a hairstyle that would not shock the shit out of people you meet along the street. I'm guilty for torturing my hair every time I change my hair color. I can't stick with JUST one hairstyle for an entire year, seriously! Because of that, I have always thought that my hair is beyond repair. I've tried different types of hair spa treatments, deep-conditioners and even coconut oil in attempt to save whatever's left on my hair strands. Nothing works for my stubborn lifeless hair!!! 

About a week ago, I woke up at my parents' house and when my birth-giver (Yeah, I'm talking about you, Mom!), the person who is supposed to accept me for who and what I am, blurted out the question that everyone who sees me on a daily basis is probably dying to ask... 

"Why is your hair SO dry?"

I didn't even have the energy to talk back that time. No matter what reason I give her, one thing is for sure - MY HAIR IS SO DRY! So, I went back to the city where I am working, still holding that thought in my mind. Then, I went straight to the place where I got the facial serum from #7. Yup! Back to the restaurant - Satinka Naturals! I was planning on buying this around September, but it turns out it couldn't wait, so, I got this one and started using it. And boy! I kid you not, I feel like my hair is breathing again! I've been using it every single day since I purchased it. I'm planning on using this every other day starting next week. This nourishing hair mask definitely exceeds my expectations! 

What about you? How do you pamper yourself after a long day or week? Do you have any favorite skincare or beauty products that maybe I should try as well? I would love to read your comments and suggestions! 

Stay cool and pretty!