The power of phytonutrients featuring Zulqaas facial serum

A woman can never have too many beauty products to boost her beauty and confidence. It's even more important to take care of my skin being a busy full-time doctor, wife and mother. After all, a beautiful wife reflects a caring husband and loving family :)

So I only use the best products for skincare. Facial serum is one of my secrets. They are light and quickly absorbed skincare product that contains highly concentrated active ingredients without containing occlusive and moisturising ingredients such as petrolatum or mineral oil.

This is why they are expensive. Because they are the holy grail to good skin. The molecules are small to enhance absorption and ensure deeper penetration into the skin. Therefore, only small amounts ie a few drops are needed each application. And it is non greasy, perfect for oily skin like mine. It can be used with or without moisturiser depending on individual's skin condition.

Read more about facial serum on WebMD.

Zulqaas facial serum is developed by Dr As Zulqa. She has a doctorate and a special interest in developing Halal cosmetics. Her product is registered under the ministry of health Malaysia with the number of NOT180503209K. This is an important fact to ensure that the product is manufactured under strict conditions with quality ingredients.

Zulqaas facial serum is made of phytonutrients, meaning natural chemicals derived from plants. They are not essential for bodily function. Instead they improve our well-being. Read more about phytonutrients on WebMD.

The 10 active ingredients include

Liquorice-antiseptic and anti-inflammatory
Chia Seed- rich in antioxidant，soothing and anti-inflammatory
White Mulberry- skin brightening and whitening
Rosehip oil- lightens uneven skin tone
Rosemary- anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory, fights acne
Tea tree oil- fights acne
Asiatic pennywort- stimulate new skin cells growth
Baikal skullcap- anti-ageing
Matricaria - soothes and hydrates sensitive skin
Japanese knotweed- anti-oxidant and reduces appearance of wrinkles

And of course it's free of potentially harmful ingredients such as alcohol, paraben, silicon, mineral oil and colorant. Vegan and animal lovers can also be reassured that no animal is used as part of the ingredients or the testing process. For my Muslim friends, Zulqaas facial serum is halal as well.

Extrapolating from the ingredients used, I can also safely use it in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

I use the facial serum after cleansing my face at night. It can be used together with my night face gel for even more moisturising effect to soothe the face after a long day out at work. Really love how lightweight the serum is and the instant moisturising effect.

Testimonies from other users

More information about Zulqaas facial serum --

1.WEBSITE https://www.aszulqa.com

2.BLOG https://www.aszulqa.com/blog

3.WEBSTORE www.zulqaas.com

4.FB PAGE https://www.facebook.com/ZulqaasOfficial/

5.IG official https://www.instagram.com/zulqaas/

6.IG testimonial https://www.instagram.com/zulqaas.testimonial/

7.Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxCjBuZPSJ4VFXhgyykJJiA

Generation 3 Colla by Kitsui

Being a doctor, many often ask me do we need supplements and what are safe? I do not put a total ban on supplements but these are the certain pointers to follow-

- Make sure the product is from reputable source using only the highest quality ingredients with the necessary certifications

- Avoid generally if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

- Avoid if you have any chronic medical conditions especially kidney and liver problems

- Make sure it doesn't contain steroid

- Scrutinize the list of ingredients. Use reliable sources such as webMD to look for potential side effects.

I don't deny certain supplements can improve well being. Collagen beverages is one of them. Recently I have been given the opportunity to try Generation 3 Colla by Kitsui.

Some background about Kitsui. Being the Winner of the Asia Pacific Super Health Brand, it boasts products that are made from natural ingredients to improve health and well being. All the products are manufactured with high quality products conforming to standards of Good Manufacturing Practice.

Me being myself, time to go through the main ingredients!

Lemon- rich in vitamin C, antioxidant and  has a great flavour

Collagen- the building block for good skin. It makes the skin firm and youthful.

Astaxanthin- a type of carotenoid found in algae and seafood. A great antioxidant.

Vitamin C-essential for skin repair and healing.

Calcium- for great bone and nail health

Omega 3- for a healthy heart and reduces bad cholesterol levels.

Kitsui claims the following benefits from drinking Generation 3 Colla--

-Lightens stretch mark and wrinkles
-Relieves oily skin
-Reduces appearance of scar including acne scar
-Moisturises the skin
-Slows the ageing process
-Helps with uneven skin tone
-Maintains healthy nails and hair

These are the recommendations/general tips when consuming Generation 3 Colla--

- Avoid milk, fried food and soy sauce for those with acne

- Avoid excessive caffeine which can accelerate the ageing process

- Stop consuming Colla during menstruation as absorption may be impaired

- To space out the timing of consumption at least 5 hours from other prescription drugs

- Suitable for expecting mothers with more than 4 months pregnant or breastfeeding mothers

-  Please do not consume if slimming/detox products if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

-  Drink 2-3 litres of water a day for best results

-  This collagen drink can be made with water which is warm/room temperature/ chilled. But make sure the powder dissolved fully.

-  It can be consumed after breakfast or before sleep (better before sleep for optimal absorption)

-  Always consult your healthcare professionals before consumption especially if you have other medical conditions.

I find these advices are fairly practical and logical. This further shows that Kitsui is not just chasing for sales. But they are genuinely interested in the well-being of their clients.

This short video shows how to make a great serving of Generation 3 Colla. I prefer the drink chilled because it makes the sweetness more harmonious.

Just to note that those who are allergic to seafood or with ezcema/allergic rhinitis are not recommended to try this collagen drink as it's based on marine collagen.

Kitsui Generation 3 Colla can be found at your local Watson's store and also online Watson's store.

Kitsui official website
https://kitsui.com.my
Kitsui Facebook page
https://m.facebook.com/kitsuimy/

Disclaimer: the opinion given is merely a personal experience and does not constitute formal medical advice. Please seek your medical professional's advice before any complementary therapy. Always ask for certified professionals before proceeding with treatment and stop if discomfort or side effect ensues.

Nufael goat's supermilk for the whole family

Yummy. More milk for baby Bing! Being fully breastfed for more than a year, he's still very big time into drinking milk. The amount that he eats and drinks can be more than an average adult. But the options are limited because he's a very picky eater. So we are always on the lookout for nutritious formula milk.

We have been trying out Nufael goat's milk for a while already. Not only is this suitable for the growing baby Bing, it's also great for the rest of the family. My pregnant self will benefit from the extra calcium and nutrition. What I consume will then be channeled to my flourishing second boy in the womb. Breastfeeding mothers can also consume this. Hubby can also use this to make his cup of coffee or tea extra delicious, as well as to provide more energy to go through a busy day.

Besides goat's milk powder, it also contains real extract of red dates, honey, raisins, manna, Arabic gum and pomegranate. A wonderful combination of vitamins and minerals to improve general well-being such as iron, omega 3 fatty acids and prebiotics. As for my fellow Muslim friends, these are important food ingredients called Makanan Sunnah. And of course it's sources are halal (because it's new, still pending Jakim approval) The goat's milk is imported from Netherlands.

As there's no added sugar, artificial coloring or flavoring, it's a healthy choice. The alkaline nature of the milk makes it suitable for those who have sensitive stomach as well. It's also easily digested in order to prevent bloating and constipation which is commonly faced in pregnancy. And many anecdotal evidence that those with allergy to cow's milk. Can consume goat's milk safely. Don't worry about any goaty smell because there's none (In fact Nufael promises 100 % refund if you find it unpalatable).

Now if you look at the packaging carefully, Nufael is actually a product of Feedmilk! Remember these lovely nursing clothes you often see on Facebook? And Femilac milk boosters?The founders undoubtedly support breastfeeding. Therefore they only recommend starting Nufael in toddlers older than 2 years old. Because no milk is better for your children before that.

Sharing our own experience trying out Nufael.

Mommy of 1.5 boys aka myself

I don't usually like milk powder because of the smell or the taste. But I do need it because breastfeeding and being pregnant means that I need a lot more nutrients to provide for both my babies and myself. I find that Nufael has a really mild flavour and it's not sweet. Loving it!

Baby Bing

A growing toddler, but he's also a picky eater. Sometimes we worry that he doesn't get enough nutrients because he only eats rice/noodles, eggs, tofu, fish/chicken on and off, sweet corns and carrots. Lol. We are so glad that he accepts Nufael milk and are hopeful that this will help to supplement his diet.

Daddy

Being a big time coffee lover, he can easily have 2-3 cups of cappuccino in a day. Besides using fresh milk, we have also started using Nufael in his coffee. And he said his coffee still tasted awesome. As there's iron in Nufael and coffee decreases iron absorption, mommy hopes that daddy will be able to get more iron from his diet.

Besides our own positive feedbacks, many other Nufael users have also enjoyed the benefit of drinking Nufael.

Some affirmed my taste about Nufael which is not goaty at all.

Others think that it's value for money and can stave off hunger.

Some also takes it to supplement calcium intake during pregnancy and breastfeeding for stronger bone and teeth.

These are the various websites for Nufael.

https://www.facebook.com/Nufael-Susu-Kambing-HQ-1790720354540391/

Facebook page : Nufael Susu Kambing HQ

https://nufaelsusukambing.com/

Official Website

Landing Page for purchase and search for distributor

https://www.susukambingnufael.com/?et_fb=1

Instagram of Nufael's Founder Anys Paloma

https://www.instagram.com/anyspaloma/

Instagram for Nufael's HQ

https://www.instagram.com/nufaelsusukambing.hq/

Official Instagram for Nufael Susu kambing HQ

No HP 0168404932

HQ Address :

No 9, Jalan Keluli, AK7/AK, Seksyen 7, 40000, Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan

Last but not least, if you really fall in love with Nufael and would like to become a distributor/dropship agent, please register here

Landing page for Nufael distributor

https://www.nufael.com/pengedar-susu-nufael/

Swanicoco lipstick review x 50 Gram - Natural cosmetics safe in pregnancy

I'm so excited to receive my Swanicoco lipstick in the mail! Hailing from Korea, it has a range of natural bio cosmetics. And I'm proudly to announce that 50gram is the first to sell this in Malaysia! Being pregnant, I'm extremely careful with both what I consume and apply on the skin. Swanicoco is a cosmetic brand that I trust in this respect.

Story about Swanicoco

Swanicoco started off by creating naturally fermented soaps in Korea. They use the best medicinal herbs, boil them, and then ferment them. The company is all about good quality biotechnology research and creates products safe for everyone's use. The concept of bio fermentation is the gist of their natural products.

What is bio fermentation?

Swanicoco produces fermented cosmetics. During the fermentation process, particles become smaller. Therefore, absorption rate into the skin is much better. Fermented extracts account for 80% of Swanicoco cosmetics.

Fermentation also releases active ingredients such as antioxidants and amino acids which are the holy grail for anti ageing skincare.

The goodies I received in the mail. Juliet Red lipstick, acne clear serum, day cream with SPF50+ and ampoule. So far I also tried the day cream, it's non greasy and lightens the skin instantly. Love it!

What's the ingredients?

High quality grains, fruits, vegetables, and Korean medicinal herbs are used. These natural ingredients do not irritate the skin and is great for those who have sensitive skin like me. They also source patented ingredients from Europe, including France, which leads the global cosmetics ingredients market; as well as organically certified ingredients from the United States and Australia. All these are FDA approved!

Swanicoco does not use ingredients that are harmful to the skin such as dyes, artificial fragrances, chemical preservatives, steroids, alcohol, mineral oil, parabens, and benzophenones.

These make Swanicoco products safe, hypoallergenic, mild, and ideal for all skin types, as well as eco-friendly.

For the animal lovers , be rest assured that Swanicoco fully prohibits the unnecessary sacrifice of animals and have consolidated over 10 alternative methods of testing.

Besides this, there are added goodies in their cosmetics such as Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF), and protein peptides . These are essential ingredients in repairing skin and assisting in healing.

Swanicoco boasts great coverage, long-lasting effects, and UV protection.  Let's put it to test! To begin with, I got this vividly red Juliet Red lipstick! The colour is so fiery.

As I don't usually put on makeup that's too showy while I'm at work, I only applied it in a thin layer. This is the effect- a nice tint of pink that's pleasing to the eye and not too flaunting. It brightens the whole face.

Or else, one can also try applying to it's actual color. This creates a more glamourous look that is more suitable for a night's out. It will go better with a little black dress. And perhaps if my skin is fairer.

Besides providing an attractive color, this lipstick also moisturises because it contains shea butter and avocado oil. I can't wait to try out more shades and share it with everyone.

One more essential ingredient is candelilla wax which is also vegan friendly and hypoallergenic comparing to traditionally used bee wax.

Last but not least, this is why you keep reading this post. A referral link to win free lipsticks and perhaps even a free villa stay! They are also lovely enough to provide the first few buyers with the skincare sample products I took a photo of.  Get it now because this Juliet Red is a limited edition. Remember 50Gram delivers nationwide :)

A long footnote: 

More info about the skin care samples you may receive with the purchase of the lipstick

GF PURE AMPOULE  

• Contains Silk Amino Acids and Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate to improve skin firmness & hydrate skin• FGF promotes healing and tissue regeneration & EGF promotes epidermal cell renewal • Improves skin texture while strengthening skin's natural barrier• Penetrates deep into skin to promote cell growth and obtain optimum hydration within 

How to use:After using toner, tear off the aluminum cap and put conical cap on the vial. Spread evenly to entire face. Follow with moisturizer.(Store in a cool area or keep in the cosmetic fridge) 

UV shield perfect sunblock cream

• A high protection facial sunscreen enriched with Camellia Sinensis(Green Tea) Leaf Water• Blended with Herbal & Botanical Extract to help soothe & moisturize skin• Contains Niacinamide & Adeosine to improve skin tone and reduce fine lines & wrinkles• Shields skin against harmful UVA+UVB with SPF50+/PA+++• Suitable for daily use & under makeup and provides intense moisture• Perfect for all skin types including sensitive skin 

How to use: Apply after basic skincare & before outdoor activities. Reapply whenever necessary. 

AC Control skin toner & emulsion 

Tea tree leaf water and various herb extracts (jojoba seed, artemisia annua, calendula, and comfrey leaf) in the AC Control Care Skintoner help to soothe irritation and protect skin from harmful environmental factors.

This Swanicoco toner also contains hydrolized algin, a submarine plant, which is chock full of mineral and fatty acids that gently exfoliates for smoother skin. Ceramide, another key ingredient, infuses the skin with long-lasting moisture that strengthens the skin’s elasticity. Living up to its name, this skintoner helps control easily irritated, sensitive skin and effectively controls sebum.

HOW TO USE:After cleansing, pump a moderate amount into the palm of your hands and gently apply evenly over your face. Pat gently to promote full absorption.

Home chemical peeling treatment featuring Derca

Can't go for regular facial treatment? No worries, now we can safely do it at home. All it needs is 15 minutes every 2-4 weeks. I have previously written about suitable facial treatment in pregnancy especially regarding safe chemical peeling. This is because breakouts and scarring and be particularly troublesome for certain expecting mothers due to hormonal changes.

I have been given the chance to try out Derca BioSculptivate AT-resurface/peel. And I'm excited to show you how well it works! My breakouts have improved significantly in the second trimester but there are still lots of blocked pores and closed comedones. And the scarring is unfortunately very visible.

Background of Derca range products

Founded by Lurinda who is a somatologist. Somatology is a study about holistic care of human health and well-being, particularly in the area of aesthetics. To know more about this field, refer to this page.


The main ingredients used in the this home peel kit are

Hydroxy acid (HA) like beta HA (salicylate) and alpha HA (glycolic acid) are found. They are very useful for exfoliation and clearing up the clogged pores as well as reducing inflammation. They have been studied and found to be safe when used on the skin in pregnancy because absorption into the blood stream is negligible.

Aloe leaf extract provides a much needed soothing effect for the acid peeled skin and hydrates the skin.


Bisabolol is an active ingredient found in chamomile. It is an anti-inflammatory that calms and soothes the skin. It also helps other active ingredients to penetrate into the skin.

Those who are interested in knowing other potential toxins to avoid in pregnancy please refer to this article on webMD.

Watch my YouTube video to see how to use this kit.

Just like conventional chemical peeling, I felt a slight sting on my face after the mask was applied. But it's much milder than my facial treatments at the clinic. It's normal to feel so because the acid used irritates the skin. After the first use, I have noticed much less acne and much easier to extract my comedones.


This home peel kit is only at RM180. It can provide 10 sessions of peeling if only used on the face (5ml), 5 if used for both face and neck (10ml). Comparing with those performed at aesthetic clinics, it's only RM18 each facial treatment! Of course the strength of the acid used in the product is less than those applied by aesthetic doctors to ensure safety. In certain cases, if the effect is less than perfect, I would advice you to head to an aesthetic clinic because some scars and severe acne needs to be managed with stronger peels and maybe laser treatment.

Official website for Derca Range
https://www.dercarange.com

Malaysian distributor Bellagio Wellness Artistry
www.bellagiowellness.com
WhatsApp 0122492488

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) food trail- dinner (part 3)

Finally gotten around to write about our adventurous dinners at Saigon!

Ramen Bar Suzuki HCMC

8/5 Lê Thánh Tôn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh
093 781 45 69

https://g.co/kgs/pCRT6k

Very flavoursome ramen with thick soup. But the flavours are heavier comparing to those in Japan. Go early to try out their limited edition ramens at only 10 servings per day.

ASIANA FOOD TOWN

tầng hầm khu B, công viên 23/9, 4 Phạm Ngũ Lão, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh
090 377 08 36

https://g.co/kgs/5ZK8sZ

Great for big groups because it's a big food court. Price is pretty average and taste was the more internationally acceptable.

5KU Station

29 Thái Văn Lung, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh
090 777 54 87

https://g.co/kgs/8tZZYx

Great BBQ selection, marinated well and DIY using a cute charcoal grill! Be there early before 7pm because people literally queue for a table. But everything there was spicy, including their fried noodles.

Lý Club Saigon

143 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, phường 6, Quận 3, Hồ Chí Minh
028 3930 5588

https://g.co/kgs/KyrL4f

Where we enjoyed the evening during Victor and Shin Yi's wedding dinner. Fine dining concept with fresh ingredients. Great atmosphere and children friendly too.

Ốc Oanh
534 Vĩnh Khánh, Phường 8, Quận 4, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
+84 98 399 49 39

https://goo.gl/maps/rLkNi8gjeZR2

Very local seafood eatery. Will advise to come in slightly big groups because it's a fairly chaotic area. Cheap though. Eat seafood only and don't order anything else.

This is how local it gets. Everyone sits on low chairs.

Bep Me In

136/9 Lê Thánh Tôn, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
+84 28 3824 4666

https://g.co/kgs/Wj5y7V

Authentic Vietnamese dishes. Serving is not huge and their fish soup really gave a big kick of flavors. Very different from Chinese cooking. And siew mai at Saigon is not a type of dimsum! It's a flour/meat ball cooked in tomato based gravy and taken with steamed French baguette.

Saigon has such a great variety of cuisine to suit every traveler's taste buds. Hope my posts have given you some guide as to what to try out during your trip. Bon appetit!

Should one invest in maternity panties? Featuring Mamaway

Baby bumps come in all sizes and shapes. By the third or fourth month of pregnancy, the precious bump would have outgrown your usual jeans. It's always good to wear loose clothes and leave plenty of room for the growing belly and bub.

But that doesn't mean boring shapeless look! It spells shopping for more clothes that show off the awesome baby bump! Not only do you need to look good outside but it's even more than important to make your lingerie as comfortable as possible.

I have recently talked about maternity bra. 

Of course good things must come in pairs. Here you go, reasons why maternity panties are essential. Afterall, the bump starts growing from down below.

I have started wearing Mamaway Antibacterial Maternity Panties at my fourth month of pregnancy. These are the reasons why I love them.


Maternity panties are more stretchy. As the bump is growing, the first pair of panty to go will be the non elastic ones. Maternity panties can often stretch to more than double their original size so you don't have to keep buying new panties as your pregnancy progresses. The stretchability also makes it more comfortable.

As with your normal panties, it can come in medium rise or high rise varieties.

The medium rise ones sit just below the bump. And is suitable for those who still like their low rise pants. But from experience I can easily let you know that you can probably keep your low rise aside for 4-6 months.

 But the medium waist variety is also good for those who has itchy bumps and need a scratch or two on and off. This is very common and is due to stretching of the skin as the belly grows, as well as the hormonal changes. This is harmless unless if you also have yellowish skin and eyes. Then it's time to seek advice from healthcare professionals.

After delivery, one can choose the high rise variety so that it covers the caeserean scar without exposing it to irritation from the outer clothing.

Mamaway panties are made of antibacterial material called Heiq pure. It's a technique originated from Switzerland by blending pure silver into the fabric which has antibacterial properties. This prevents odour causing bacteria from colouring the panties. Exactly what I need!

Sweating a lot is also a part of pregnancy and post partum period that I really hates. Mamaway panties absorb these excessive moisture well and make me feel fresh after a whole day at work. The material is also cooling.

So mothers and mother-to-bes, take this chance to pamper yourself and get a few pairs of good maternity panties :)