Wednesday, January 28, 2015

TO BETTER SKIN

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Backgrounder


If you didn't already know, my skin is really sensitive - something I only realised one or two years back after getting my first bad breakout after puberty. It doesn't help that my part-time job gradually deteriorates the health of my skin by exposing it to different types of makeup during work. With such a number of foundation, blusher, powder applied on me I find it hard to keep track of whether they are suitable for my sensitive skin. As a model, you either bring your own foundation (and that's only if they allow you to use your own personal stash) or otherwise, grin and bear it. As such, you might once in a while meet makeup artists who don't take much pride in their job, leading to nasty encounters with dirty brushes and whatnots. 


"Ew" I know. This was a makeup artist's kit from one of the shows I did before the breakout. I would not say the hygiene of this kit directly caused the poor condition of my skin, but I'm also not saying it didn't either. I honestly don't know. It could be the hormones or it could be the gradual accumulative trauma effect from all these experiences I had at work. Hence, leading to the breakout.

No, it wasn't easy tackling skin problems.

1. I had to work. It wasn't easy going to work bare faced when your face was not at its tip-top state. Your self-esteem would naturally plunge as you compare yourself to other models working around you and worse, you start feeling bad for the makeup artist who has more work to do because of all the facial flaws she has to conceal. 

2. People say things like, "Oh, let your skin breathe!! Don't cover up. Let the pimples heal...", but really? The dilemma as to whether to put makeup or not wasn't easy to resolve. In the situation where your skin is under the attack of evil of pimples, I think, or rather I would naturally grasp for any concealers and foundations within reach in desperation, earnestly hoping that they would mask every trace of my insecurities. 

3. Eyes. Talking to people wasn't easy. Why? If you've or had skin problems, you'd understand how it is absolutely difficult to hold a conversation when you notice their eyes constantly straying to the concerned areas on your face. 


4. "What happened to your face??!!" that question becomes the epitome of rubbing salt into the wound.


Tried Seeking Help

I visited a known dermatologist centre that had been (still is, btw) aggressively advertised by many bloggers, in hope that it would be my best option. I paid $1.2K (!!!) upfront because.... ya la, to be honest, I was swayed by the convincing sales person and not forgetting the army of bloggers they sponsored. I went for a SINGLE facial session and NEVER returned eversince.

"You'll definitely not leave with your skin looking red. I promise! We are located in town leh. Do you think we would let you leave looking bad in town?" 

I was promised the above when I shared about my bad facial experience in my teenage years and how I hate walking out with red marks after the sessions. It just doesn't make sense how one can walk out looking much worse than before and to accept the absurdity of situation as part of the "recovery process"... That promise above was gold and immediately, I was SOLD. $1.2K. Ok.

And that, my friends, was the worst decision I had made in 2014. 
I left without looking at the mirror. The room was possibly strategically dimly lit anyway, so I didn't have the chance to scrutinise my face. Oblivious, I went home only to realise how bad my face was flaring with all the hideous red marks. It was so so bad. I know I should have taken photos for reference purposes but honestly, I was utterly damaged... a photo was the last thing on my mind and, far from comforting. 


Photos Don't Lie

Then, I received an email from Caring Skin. They asked if I was keen to take up an aesthetic-related blogging assignment. I was obviously apprehensive about it after the last experience. Eventually, I agreed to it after being guaranteed with the assurance of results. "In the event that your skin reacts badly to the treatment, Caring Skin will bear all the necessary costs for dermatologist treatments." Very professional. 

On my first visit, I had a chat with the Relationship Manager, Subrina. She analysed my skin with a machine that detects what your skin is currently lacking of - moisture? elasticity? etc. From there, they then decide the ideal treatment for your skin (a very, very good use of technology). 


Again, I was met with consoling words, "Don't worry. There will be no red marks. Our customers don't walk out with flaring red marks unless the pimples are already flaring. We only make it better, not worse." This time, I tried to take it with a pinch of salt. After all, I had nothing much to lose. My skin was already bad. If anything went wrong, they would be held liable. 

And unknowingly, this chance I took with Caring Skin turned out to be one of my best decision's ever in 2014. Caring Skin turned out to be my self-esteem saviour.



This was me with full on makeup and good lighting. It was very frustrating that the marks left by healed pimples were still visible despite my efforts to conceal them. They were way more obvious in real life.... you'll see later (continue scrolling)


Before removing makeup
After removing makeup
Areas of concern: Forehead, sides of cheeks, neck

Look at how bad my skin was. If Caring Skin is truly not as good as it is, I wouldn't have bothered disclosing such personal photos to you guys. Because I know it might help some of you out there who're battling skin issues, as much as it had helped me, 

*** And only after a few sessions***
TAKE NOTE OF THE DATE: 8th October to 22 October

My skin was quickly clearing up ^^

Most of the pimples had cleared, leaving only a few stubborn ones left.

And yes, this Nano treatment I did really help a lot with whitening.
By November, I was able to take no makeup selfies *grateful* I know this might sound a tad exaggerating but it's possible if you're determined enough. I diligently went for the treatments fortnightly after school, watched my diet, drank more water, tried to gt enough rest..... and stopped taking up runway gigs. Now, I'm only modelling for online stores, the risk of getting contaminated is a lot lower compared to having a make up artist sharing her brushes with 10 other runway models and myself.


Physically, it was effortless.

Mentally, it definitely is not easy battling skin problems. Irina understands the pain, which is why Irina chooses to disclose honest photos for you guys to see. No one should ever feel ashamed about having a solvable problem. The possible solution is potentially right here. I'm not saying the treatment will 100% work on you, I'm no doctor, but I've seen results and happy customers going in and out Caring Skin, and I am one of them. 

It's a very healthy, humble and cosy environment. Nothing fancy. The founder, herself lives to make others feel better about themselves through healthier skin. Instead of texting me to chase for the blog entry (like many clients would), she always checks if I'm doing alright after the facial session. And trust me, I can tell that it's all genuine. I'm certain that I'm getting this treatment not because I'm a blogger but because I'm a "patient" of hers. I brought my good friend there today and I'm pleased to say, she likes the place as much as I do.



The first trial only costs $88 while dermatologist's consultation easily costs up to $100 or more. Why not give it a go?

Caring has successfully treated my skin in a timespan of less than 3 months. I have now totally recovered from my breakout AND enjoyed being pampered by Caring's beauticians with face and shoulder massages in the process of recovery - physically, it was effortless (except the extractions ouch!!!!)

Knowing that its treatment is both safe and effective, I confidently urge you guys with troubled skin to go for a trial and see it for yourself if Caring is for you. There will not be any hard selling on their end, don't worry.

P.S. Not saying it's only for troubled skin, if you wanna look good for Valentine's or Chinese New Year, by all means, because I just pampered myself today too hehe.


Thank you

Looking back, I am really appreciative of those who had been by my side when I felt the ugly in my life. They looked me straight in the eyes without making me feel self-conscious about my poor skin condition. They did not make me feel any less beautiful. Also: I started dating Yi Ming at that point of time. I really don't know how he managed to see past it all.

It is very comforting to know that the state of my skin does not dictate who I am, though it did momentarily take a toll on my mental being. No matter how many times people say, beauty is skin deep.... we realistically understand that beauty on the inside can't get you free drinks at the bar.


Very Useful Information

Treatments I did: Nano Perfector
How many sessions: less than 12
Usual price: $280 (Per Session)
Special Promotion: “IRINA” for first trial of Nano Perfector at $88 and free eye-treatment on Off-Peak hours (11am-4pm) worth $88 * Valid till 30 April 2015

Book your appointment at:

No Photowonder no shit. This selfie was taken today after facial, no foundation but only with eyebrows drawn and lipstick on (for ootd purposes). Look forward to receiving happy emails from you guys, about how amazing you think Caring is too.






33 comments :

  1. Hiii irina! You're so inspiring! Can you please do a makeup blog post?:) about the products you use hehe love you !!!

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    1. You're so sweet! I'll try to do up one when I've the time :-)

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  2. Hi Irina!

    Thank you so much for sharing this personal things with us - am currently struggling with breakouts and uneven skin as well which has been causing a lot of insecurities too :( Just wondering, does the treatment involve extraction? Want to try it out but I'm afraid to do so if it has extraction since I heard it's really painful + can make it more inflamed in the long run and not that good for the skin.

    Thanks so much!!

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    1. Yes! It involves extraction. I think extraction is only bad when it's not done properly cause more breakout after that. I went to Mary chia before and they were saying how the breakout is normal post facial but that's not true. I didn't experince any further breakout from Caringskin. Extraction is just to remove impurities stuck inside. I think it helps but maybe if it'll ease your mind, go ahead and do more research and see how? ;-)

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  3. wow ur skin was real bad

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    1. This comment makes me feel frustrated at society - Don't listen to this anon Irina! We all have skin problems, whether we'd care to admit it or not, and you are an incredibly brave (and admirable) soul for putting yours out there for the whole word to judge, just so you could help others too! You're a wonderful, and beautiful person.

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    2. and you are real rude and immature (to first anonymous). thanks for this incredibly brave post, for someone who battles with really bad acne too, I completely empathise and am happy that you've found a way past it !

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  4. Hi Irina, thank you so much for sharing this post. But I have a few questions before heading down to try this out. Did you use any skincare products from them or your own? Did it completely cleared your acne and marks? Thank you :)

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    1. Oh yes! I used like masks and some sample products given by the staff. Switch my makeup remover from oil based to water based after being advised to do so :-)

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  5. Hmm sure you paid 280$ per session? Cos seems like another blogger got it free...

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    1. That's the usual price and it's clearly stated this is an advert

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  6. A good dermatologist is really, really hard to find. I'm glad everything worked out for you, Irina! Caring Skin sounds promising, I'll be sure to check them out. :)

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    1. YES, I AGREE. Usually the easiest way out is to take oral medications. Yes, you should totally check them out! I'm glad to have heard lovely feedback from my readers so far :-)

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  7. Hey Irina! Wld like to know the how r the session procedures like? Weekly or monthly and do u have to make downpayment etc?? Thanks in advance!

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    1. Hello! When my skin was real bad, I went fortnightly. And then it went down to monthly after it got better. They'll do all the scheduling for you. Don't worry. No fuss at all :-) As for downpayment... I'm not very sure. Sorry! But you can call, they're real friendly. I'm sure they'll answer all of your questions :-)

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  8. Hi Irina! May I ask what camera you use to take the pictures you post on Instagram? The picture quality is really good!!

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  9. Hi Irina! You're looking great! Could you please make a blog post on your diet plans/ how you keep your body in shape? I have tried many ways to shed off some pounds but it never does seem to work. Would you please share some tips? Love you :)

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    1. Irina? Diet? Plans? HAHAHAHAHAHA.
      honestly, though, having observed Irina for quite a while.... her eating habits scare me. DO. NOT. FOLLOW. HER. ADVICE. She's just got a very high metabolism. She's been promising me to hit the gym but that has never happened even once.

      Irina, as I type this: But I wanna go gym though.

      She's too adorable.

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    2. I don't exercise these days.... I'm so unhealthy! But I heard blood type diets help! You might wanna check them out. Irina loves you too ^^

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  10. Irina, Thank you for posting this! Sharing is caring, hahaha! As always, my favorite blogger among others! Loves

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    1. Thanks for your kind words :') Blessed to have people like you around!

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  11. Thanks for writing this :)

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    1. Thanks for reading. Thanks for dropping by, to say something nice :-)

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    2. Hi Irina! It's always good to read your blogs. They are so inspiring that I had to continue reading it. If you have time pls share your skin care routine. You're so beautiful. Lovelots 😘

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  12. Hello Irina!! It's always good to read your blogs. It was so inspiring that I had to continue reading it, if you have time Pls share your skin care routine ..

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    1. Hi Jullienne (cool way of spelling the name!)
      Thanks for dropping by to say hi. I've always noticed your support on Instagram and am very thankful for that. If I could, I would try to share my skin care routine. In case I dont... here;s a really brief one:
      1. Toner - Clarins
      2. Essence - Missha
      3. Serum - Shu Uemura (day)/ Kiehl's (night)
      4. Moisturizer - etude house & clarins
      5. lip balm - vaseline

      That's kinda it everyday and don't forget sunblock during the day!!! VERY VERY IMPORTANT hehe. Hope this helps! Let me know if you need anything else. Thank you once again for being such a sweet soul <3

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  13. Hi irina! Do you stick to one therapist? If yes, may I know the name of the therapist?

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  14. Hi Irina! It's a great post! (:
    Was thinking of visiting Caring Skin for help with my breakouts but I'm not sure if their treatment prices are of usual price per visits. How does their pricing work? (:

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    1. Hello there! Their prices change when there's promotion. Why not give them a call and see what the prices are like now and if there's any promo ongoing! They just celebrated their anniversary so maybe there's one? Goodluck!!

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  15. Hey irina, Since your skin already healed,may i know if you are still using their facial product or did you change to another? Also, how much does the products roughly cost you? :)

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    1. Hi there! I have written a skincare blog post recently that you can refer to for more information :-) I have never purchased any of their skincare. I prefer the skincare I've researched on and decided to use! Hope this helps!

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