Category: Beauty

Winter can be pretty harsh on the skin, even if you don’t have a naturally dry complexion. There isn’t as much moisture in the air during the colder months of the year, which means your skin will be significantly drier. If your skin is too dry, it will start to bleed and crack. Chances are you’re also using the heat in your home more in the winter, which further robs your skin of moisture. You can also make your skin drier when you take hot baths or showers in the winter.

Adding moisture to your skin and using a quality face wash can be helpful temporarily, but you’ll need to do more to provide long-term care for your skin and keep your complexion looking its best. Here are some helpful suggestions for maintaining a youthful complexion even in harsh winter conditions.

Don’t Use Hot Water

When you’re washing your face or body, use lukewarm water. If the water is too hot, it will strip your skin of natural oils. Since the air is already very dry in the winter, the small amount of oil that you have in your skin could be taken away by washing with water that is too warm. Lukewarm water helps to balance the moisture levels in your skin and opens up your pores enough for moisturizer to be truly effective.

Moisturize Often

As soon as you get out of the shower or bathtub or wash your face, be sure to moisturize. During the winter, your skin will dry out very quickly, so it’s best to apply moisturizer when your skin is still damp from cleansing.

When you moisturize the skin before it dries completely, you’re sealing moisture in, which reduces redness and peeling. It may also be helpful to have your moisturizer handy right near the bathtub so you won’t forget to apply lotion to your face and body immediately.

Moisturizers that contain skin conditioning ingredients like vitamin E or aloe vera are also helpful in the winter, since they make the skin softer and help prevent fine lines and wrinkles. You may also want to try a moisturizer that contains coconut oil, since this can be used on both the body and face. Coconut oil also has the ability to lock in moisture and has antimicrobial properties that can reduce breakouts.

Protect Your Skin

In addition to using a cream-based cleanser and moisturizer for your skin, remember to protect your face and the rest of your skin when you’re out in the cold weather. Remember that you still need to wear sunscreen even though its winter, since the sun is still shining and your complexion could still be affected by UV rays. Your sunscreen should also include extra moisturizing ingredients like avocado or sunflower oils, as well as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to keep your skin from being damaged by the sun.

Hydrate From the Inside Out

Get a humidifier for your home so that you can fill the home with moisture and keep your skin from becoming too dry. It’s also very important to drink lots of water in the winter time, even though you may not feel the need to drink as much.

The winter season is usually when people like to enjoy hot drinks like tea and hot chocolate, and this can deprive your skin of moisture. Drink a little warm water with a splash of lemon to cleanse the skin internally and keep your body hydrated.

Of course, you can also drink cool or room temperature water with a slice of lemon or cucumber to flush impurities from the skin and give you a healthy glow even in rough weather conditions.

Moisturize Overnight

Finally, you’ll have a better chance of keeping moisture in your skin if you apply moisturizer before going to bed and leave it on while you sleep. This works for your face as well as your hands and feet and other areas that are difficult to moisturize, such as elbows and knees.

Lotions and facial moisturizers that include keratin and aloe are great choices, or you can make your own body moisturizer with coconut oil and a few drops of your favorite essential oil. If you wear gloves or socks after moisturizing, you can lock in moisture for longer periods of time.

Aging is inevitable. The slow but steady progression of time makes itself known in various parts of the body, but nowhere does it show more than in the face, where the skin is thinner and much more delicate and therefore prone to showing more signs of aging.

Skin aging can be divided into 2 categories. It can be intrinsic, which refers to age-related changes that are beyond your control, such as heredity and other genetic factors, hormones, and cellular recession. Extrinsic aging refers to aging brought about by factors you can eliminate with a few lifestyle changes. This post talks about skin aging and how it’s best to be managed.

4 Factors That Cause Premature Skin Aging

1. Sun Exposure

The appearance of age spots has less to do with our actual chronological age than it does with consistent unprotected exposure to the sun. Experts have gone so far as to claim that about 70% of skin aging is dependent on how much sunlight we expose our skin to throughout life.

Solar radiation is responsible for the accelerated destruction of collagen fibers in the skin via a process called oxidation. When collagen fibers become rigid and fragile from their initial elastic state, a phenomenon called solar elastosis occurs—also called photo aging.

To combat this, avoid staying out for too long under the sun, and make a habit of applying sunscreen before going out. If you are fond of having a tan, consider using a self-tanner instead of acquiring a tan the natural way by baking under the sun. Use makeup and skincare products that provide an adequate amount of SPF protection— the more you layer, the more protected you’ll be. In regards to skincare products, it is highly recommended to use natural-based products as they can help your skin to protect its microbiome. Natural and organic products will not only protect your skin but will also serve as a healthy barrier preventing the penetration of any harmful bacteria. Such natural ingredients as avocado, honey, coconut, or goat milk are great options for taking care of your skin. If you want to keep your skin hydrated you can use avocado soaps while for nourishing pure goat milk soaps will do wonders. All these natural ingredients can serve as great remedies for dry skin and maintain healthy pH levels.

2. Diet

A diet that’s high in fat and simple sugars and refined carbohydrates ages you from within: it makes the skin’s connective tissue rigid, therefore losing elasticity. Switching your sweets and fries out for leafy greens and fresh fruits can go a long way towards making you look and feel younger. These foods are rich in antioxidants, so they help fight free radicals that can cause all sorts of chronic disease. Plus, they are also able to mitigate if not reverse excess oxidative damage caused by prolonged sun exposure. Look into adding more foods that contain lycopene, lutein, beta-carotene, and vitamin C to your daily meals.

3. Smoking and Drinking

Everyone knows what happens when you overindulge in alcohol and cigarettes—liver disease and lung cancer to name a few. Smoking and drinking also contribute to premature skin aging. Smoking constricts the flow of blood and oxygen to the skin tissue, both of which are necessary for the skin to stay healthy and supple. This activity can also cause the appearance of fine age lines around the eyes and above the upper lip, making you look older than you actually are.

Similarly, drinking alcohol deprives the body of hydration, which is essential to younger-looking skin. In both cases, you can expect dullness and discoloration in addition to poor muscle tone and lack of skin elasticity. This can lead to a saggy neck which can add years to your face. If you smoke, quit while you’re ahead, and try to imbibe less alcohol in general. Combat sagging neck skin with YEOUTH’s Neck Firming Cream, which is infused with argireline and green tea that deliver age-defying results with every use.

4. Stress

Stress can affect your skin in different ways— it can cause you to get less sleep, which results in eye bags and a sallow complexion. The faces you make when you are stressed can also have an effect on facial wrinkling; that is, it makes them more likely to appear.

Wrap Up

While it may not always be possible to keep the clock back, a few lifestyle changes can go a long way towards maintaining your youthful glow. Just by eating well, staying hydrated, and protecting your skin from the sun, you can give your skin a chance to recover from the damage. Ridding yourself of a few bad habits can also benefit not just your skin but your overall quality of life. If signs of aging continue to plague you, please see a dermatologist for personalized care.

Thousands of all-natural skincare products are formulated every year, but only a few are worthy to be included in your favorite list. In this post, I will be sharing a roundup of the products that really worked well for my skin. These are the products that deserve 5/5 stars for consistency, quality, and reliability. Since I have realized the benefits of using only all-natural and organic products especially for the skin, I get my skincare items from Healthy Options. Without further ado, here are my favorite and most recommended holy-grail items that I call “revolutionary” and a must-try for everyone.

My 10 Favorite Skincare Products of 2017 from Healthy Options

1. Derma E Radiant Glow Face Oil by SunKissAlba (PhP 925)

My morning and evening skincare routine won’t be complete without this Radiant Glow Face Oil by SunKissAlba. It’s a trending product on Instagram with a reason: it illuminates the skin and adds hydration instantly. Derma E collaborated with SunKissAlba to create a luxurious oil that can give you an unforgettable glow. I love using products that are eco-ethical and cruelty-free like this one because it’s guilt-free and it makes me happy!

If you like having golden bits on your face and body without looking too much of a diva, give this oil a try. It leaves the skin so supple and soft like a baby’s bum. I put 2-3 drops and apply it with my ring finger on my forehead, cheeks, nose and then do a piano tap motion and massage it gently onto the skin. It’s two skincare steps in one: while most face oils tend to moisturize and sit more on the surface of skin, this one penetrates and quenches like a serum while giving the dewy, smoothing benefits of an oil.

Luscious organic Jojoba Oil and replenishing organic Argan Oil moisturize to help combat dehydration and the appearance of wrinkles while promoting radiance. Rejuvenating organic Seabuckthorn Oil helps to smooth and add shine while mineral-rich Mica adds a natural-looking brilliance to your skin.

2. T.N. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel Astringent (PhP 365 for 16oz, PhP 285 for 8oz)

This is the only 100% natural astringent that effectively cleanses, soothes and treats everyday skin irritations, without over-drying or leaving behind irritating residue. It’s gentle enough for daily use on face and body to relieve oily, irritated, red, damaged and blemished skin.

I apply this using my bare fingers or with a cotton pad. I never sleep in makeup. After washing my face, I apply witch hazel about three days in a week, and I noticed my skin is clearer. T.N. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel Astringent is also useful in taking acne scars away and making my skin less oily on top of it. It may not work for all skin types, but it’s doing justice to my skin!

3. Avalon Organics Intense Defense with Vitamin C Oil-Free Moisturizer (PhP 599)

This is a lightweight cream that rehydrates the skin for improved texture and elasticity. It’s not only my favorite but my husband’s favorite as well! We share this item and we apply this every night. One tub goes a long way. It took us more than six months to empty it. The Avalon Organics Intense Defense with Vitamin C Oil-Free Moisturizer is the quickest fix for dry, tired skin.

My husband’s skin is more sensitive so he’s thankful he found a product that’s gentle on the skin and doesn’t contain parabens, harsh sulfates, preservatives, synthetic colors, and fragrances. Avalon Organics Intense Defense with Vitamin C Oil-Free Moisturizer nourishes with soft, non-greasy hydration while energizing skin for a smoother, firmer, more youthful appearance.

4. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay (PhP 525)

This product is known as the “world’s most powerful facial.” It’s a total skin-repairing powerhouse! Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay contains 100% natural calcium bentonite clay for deep pore cleaning and it doesn’t contain additives, fragrances, and animal products. It definitely clears the skin and leaves it soft! This facial mask helps to remove dirt and impurities from the pores and it’s also kind of exfoliating. It gives noticeable improvement in skin complexion and it removes stubborn blackheads.

Directions are simple: Mix Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay with equal parts of apple cider vinegar or water. Use a glass, pottery or wooden bowl. Stir the mixture until is a smooth paste then add more clay or liquid as needed. Apply a 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch thick layer of clay to the face or other areas and let it dry. Drying times vary, but times suggested is 5 minutes for delicate skin and 15-20 minutes for normal skin.

You will feel a pulling and tightening sensation, deep pore cleansing! Believe me, it’s quite the experience. Remove the clay by washing with warm water. Expect a slight redness to appear after removing the clay. This is normal and will disappear in approximately 30 minutes.

5. Derma E CoQ10 Super Repair Cleanser (PhP 675)

I use two types of cleanser for my face daily. One of which is this Derma E CoQ10 Super Repair Cleanser, an antioxidant-rich, sulfate-free cleanser that lathers away dirt, oil, makeup and impurities, promoting fresh, healthy, youthful looking skin. What I love most about this product is that it’s so gentle and it’s very fragrant. This facial wash is doctor-developed with potent antioxidants CoQ10, pomegranate, green tea, and Vitamins A, C and E that defend the skin against daily stress, leaving it fresh, revitalized and youthful-looking.

6. Derma E Hydrating Scrub with Hyaluronic Acid (PhP 675)

This is the other facial cleanser I use also every day. Derma E Hydrating Scrub with Hyaluronic Acid is a creamy exfoliant that buffs away impurities and dull surface cells without over drying. It leaves the skin soft, smooth, and luminous. Hyaluronic Acid delivers intense moisture, and walnut Shell Powder provides gentle yet effective exfoliation, lifting away dullness. I love the grainy feel of it and the deep clean it gives my face. When you take skincare seriously and are always on the hunt for the next gen of game-changing skincare products, this should be in your list.

7. Lafe’s Natural Deodorant Spray (PhP 245)

Many years ago, I read an article that changed the way I view deodorants in the market. Using all-natural deodorants that don’t contain aluminum is the only way to go. The problem with antiperspirants is that they clog up your pores so the wetness doesn’t eek out. The ingredient that clogs up the pores is aluminum chloride, which has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer. Neither of these claims has been scientifically proven, but there’s enough concern about them that some respected doctors warn us to avoid using aluminum in our beauty and skincare products.

I also choose to use ones that contain no parabens because I don’t want to put anything evil on my skin. Lafe’s natural deodorant is an effective spray formula. It’s a lavender-scented organic deodorant made with lavender essential oils to keep you calm, relaxed, and feeling fresh. The natural botanical essential oils fight odor-causing bacteria without the use of harmful chemicals.

Lafe’s Natural Deodorant Spray is made with certified organic ingredients and is aluminum free, gluten free, and propylene glycol free. It comes in several different fragrances, but I have only tried the lavender and unscented variants. Pick the one you love most.

8. Nature’s Gate Aloe Vera Body Wash (PhP 295)

This fortifying aloe vera body wash awakens the senses with a blend of Aloe, Blue Malva, and Sweet Almond Oil. It has a sweet smell that reminds me of candy or bubblegum, but it doesn’t carry long after washing. It suds up easily, doesn’t dry my skin, and it makes good foam. One bottle of Nature’s Gate Aloe Vera Body Wash goes a long way. It’s vegan, gluten-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, and cruelty-free. I just wish it also comes in a smaller size container so we can bring it during travels.

9. Lafe’s Organic Lip Balm Unflavored (PhP 135)

I have tried and tested so many lip balms in the past, and only Lafe’s Organic Lip Balm Unflavored has worked really well on my lips. This USDA-certified organic lip balm is made with beeswax, vitamin E, and natural oils, providing moisture without the use of harmful chemicals. It doesn’t leave the lips chalky or chapped. It’s the perfect consistency! I use it every day under lipstick or alone whenever I feel like my lips need care and nourishing.

No matter how much abuse your lips has endured in your lifetime (toxic lipsticks and such), it’ll feel pretty much new again after you apply this lip balm consistently for a few days.

10. Avalon Organics – Lavender Luminosity Daily Moisturizer Unscented (PhP 475)

I’m obsessed with this moisturizer! The consistency is light but truly feels comforting on skin. I use it under my makeup and I’ve noticed that makeup looks smoother and doesn’t seem to get greasy either. It really feels liberating when you know that you’re putting only natural ingredients and not chemicals on your skin.

Avalon Organics Lavender Luminosity Daily Moisturizer is a hypo-allergenic lotion that hydrates and visibly brightens for renewed radiance. This moisturizer is infused with kombucha that helps smooth the skin’s surface to enhance radiance and antioxidant-rich grape seed polyphenols that help the skin fend off damaging free radicals and maintain a velvety softness. It also has hyaluronic acid which helps enhance the skin’s moisture retention. As a result, the skin feels softer and appears more luminous.

Wrap Up 

There’s a case to be made that using organic skin care products is better. Okay, maybe they’re not life-or-death necessary in the same sense as water, oxygen, and food are—but when it comes to fortifying one’s inner and outer glow, there’s nothing like natural skincare products to lift your mood. They can be more expensive but the price for value is considerable. Whether you’re looking for an occasional #treatyourself splurge or you’re ready to indulge in a quality skin care haul in Healthy Options, consider getting these personal favorites. 🙂

Healthy Options has a vision of a healthier world where people enjoy longer, richer, more fulfilling lives by taking control of their health without harming the planet. Check out the list of Healthy Options stores here: https://www.healthyoptions.com.ph/stores

Your Desire Hair Salon and Spa officially launched on November 25, 2017, last Saturday, and I was one of the people invited to witness the blessing and opening ceremony. At the same time, I gave my crowning glory a mini overhaul and availed of the “hair color with haircut and keratin treatment” package. Since my hair was cut straight months before (so boring) and I needed a root retouch, I figured it was just proper timing to have them done.

Hair Cut and Hair Color at Your Desire Hair Salon (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

Since I started coloring my hair a few years ago, the constant regrowth struggle is as expected and it’s ongoing. Dark brown to medium brown hair color can be lower maintenance compared to bleached and lighter hair color (like blonde and rainbow unicorn-dyed hair), but still it requires maintenance. Problem is, I’m terrible at making regular trips to the hairdresser.

Full disclosure? My last two hair color touch-ups were done at home by myself. As expected, the colors looked uneven and ended up looking choppy. Some parts turned out darker and lighter on others. Hair experts may call it a disaster; I call it unique. 😛 Kidding.

It’s not a usual habit for me to go to expensive salons only to end up disappointed at the result, so I’m so glad to find Your Desire Hair Salon and Spa conveniently located in Creekside Square along Tomas Morato Avenue. It’s about 15-20 minutes of drive away from home. Now I’d have a reason to visit a decent salon and spa whenever I feel my hair and nails need pampering.

with the salon owner, Hanny Badiang

Your Desire Hair Salon and Spa is a salon for men and women where you can kick back and relax, a place you could easily visit for a complete restyle or just your regular trim. It has a down-to-earth vibe with minimal decor that’s not intimidating. Staff are warm and friendly, none of the snooty kind, thank goodness. They deliver great customer service and won’t let you walk out with a directional (read: ridiculous) hairdo.

I trusted my hairstylist’s judgment and skills. After cutting my hair into a U shape, he chose medium blonde ash (closest to my previous hair color) to offset the existing brassy tones and recommended hair treatment to lock the moisture in. Without any airs or graces, he had a good sense of humor and allowed me to completely stay at ease and feel safe in the knowledge that my hair would look better. The shade of the “Medium Ash Blonde Permanent Hair Color” (8.1) was based on L’Oreal’s color scheme.

Prices are surprisingly affordable and fair, considering the chic ambiance and nice location in Quezon City. Guests are free to pop in for a consultation, and all questions regarding hair styling, nail services, and skin whitening are welcome. If you’re nearby, pop in and say hello! Treat your tresses at this modern hair salon and spa and find promotional packages that suit every budget. 🙂

Before

During

After

Packages and Rates
1. Hair rebond, hair color, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P2200
2. Hair rebond, cellophane, manicure, edicure, foot spa: P2000
3. Hair rebond, hair treatment, manicure, edicure, foot spa: P1800
4. Brazilian keratin, haircut, manicure, edicure, foot spa: P1600
5. Hair treatment, hair color, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P1100
6. Hair treatment, hair cut, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P580
7. Hair treatment, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P480
8. Back massage, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P400
9. Foot reflex, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P380

[schema type=”review” url=”https://www.instagram.com/your_desire_skincare/” name=”Your Desire Hair Salon and Spa” description=”Ground Floor, Unit 7C, Creekside Square , Tomas Morato Avenue, Bgy Kristong Hari, Quezon City” rev_name=”For inquiries and reservations, call 0915-170-5848, 0917-842-6698″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-12-01″ user_review=”4.6″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

My mom is in her early 50’s, and she’s a pre-menopause basket case right now. Losing weight has been her goal for several years. She had tried taking diet pills before to suppress the appetite, but it turned out only having unpleasant effects including heart palpitations, restlessness, dizziness, and insomnia. She could not go on extreme dieting and perform regular exercises and workouts because between her job and our family, there’s hardly any spare time.

Mom at Healthy Options - High Street branch

I think a lot of women experience the same problem and hence seek easy and fast lose-weight and fat-burning solutions to achieve the figure they want. To be specific, my mom’s concern is her belly fat. We saw SafSlim at Healthy Options and decided to give it a try. From Instagram:

Review of SafSlim Belly Fat Transformation System

SafSlim is a natural dietary supplement that’s said to help break down the fat particularly in the stomach area.  It is free of dairy, free of gluten, and free of stimulants like caffeine. According to the manufacturer, it is most effective when you follow a reduced-calorie diet that doesn’t contain trans fats, hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup and high glycemic carbohydrates. But finding out whether or not one can expect a slimmer belly requires a lot more than a marketing pitch alone. Clever wordplay and an emphasis on promotion are always a part of products, but what we need is clear evidence and support.

The key ingredient of SafSlim is safflower oil, a substance made from the safflower plant and that has been linked to factors associated with weight loss, improving cardiovascular risk factors and improving cholesterol levels. Another ingredient is Vitamin E, an antioxidant that’s important for normal neurological function (protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage caused by free radicals).

One must take SafSlim for 16 weeks consistently to be able to notice good results. Recommended intake, at the back of the label, is one tablespoon twice a day. We’ll document and share her progress through time. Here are her before and after pictures for now (2 weeks period):

Two weeks ago (taken on May 15, 2017):

Exactly two weeks after (taken on May 29, 2017):

SafSlim is a liquid formula that works by decreasing your appetite, reducing cravings, and improving metabolism. The supplement has a delicious taste (Berry Cream and Tangerine Cream flavors) and sweetened with naturally derived Xylitol, so it can be mixed with juices, shakes, smoothies, yogurt, and other beverages. Mom takes it with Nature’s Plus Thermo Tropic Shake, a meal replacement weight loss system that’s also available at Healthy Options.

We noticed that her belly fat has reduced as well as the fats in her thighs. The difference may not be too significant since it’s been only a fortnight. To follow through her weight loss journey, I already bought a second bottle of SafSlim (Tangerine Cream flavor) for her to take it consistently. Below are more side-by-side comparison of “before and after photos” showing the front, left, and right sides. What do you think?

Wrap Up

After taking SafSlim for about a week, my mom didn’t really have any cravings. She ate healthily, kept a food diary to track her meals, and never went hungry. She lost 2 pounds, which is okay. At this point, I think it’s really important for people who want success to become intentional with dietary decisions, food planning, and determined actions.

SafSlim works but what matters more, in the long term, is making healthier food choices and controlled portions for sustainability. Taking natural weight loss supplements like SafSlim and Nature’s Plus Thermo Tropic Shake won’t make drastic changes quickly. If losing necessary fat takes 2 weeks, 1 month, or even 2 months of time, then that is fine. Lifestyle changes are the hardest to make and they do not happen “just because.” The whole point is to create a realistic plan and strategy to make a healthy lifestyle a priority.

[schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/HealthyOptionsPhilippines/” name=”Review of SafSlim Dietary Supplement for Losing Belly Fat” author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-05-30″ ]

The Yuletide holiday season this year went by too fast, don’t you think? In its truest meaning, let’s not forget that Christmas is about the celebration of Christ’s birth. It’s about giving and sharing—love, joy, peace, goodwill to men—that kind of thing. With the limited time for me to shop and my loved ones and myself (from October to December), Healthy Options had me covered. 🙂

Often, gifts that make life simpler and healthier are extremely welcome. At HO Shangri-La Mall, I found so many great items that I’m sure my family and friends would love. These were composed mostly of food and personal care stuff we can use every day.  Here are the top 10 best products I got without breaking the bank.

Top 10 Best Products as Gifts: Holiday Shopping at Healthy Options (Shangri-La Mall)

1. derma e Purifying Daily Detox Scrub With Marine Algae and Activated Charcoal (100% vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, mineral oil-free, lanolin-free, gluten free, GMO-free) (left most)

I absolutely love using this as a facial scrub. With apricot seed powder and activated charcoal, it draws out toxins from skin’s surface down to the pores and exfoliates away pollutants and impurities. Derma e Purifying Daily Detox Scrub With Marine Algae and Activated Charcoal is ideal for those looking to diminish the visible signs of aging as well as fight off future damage. It leaves my face fresh and so soft!

2. Alba Botanica Even Advanced Moisturizer SPF 15 (Sea Moss) (in the middle)

This moisturizer forms part of my nighttime facial care routine ever since I bought it. Alba Botanica Even Advanced Moisturizer is hypo-allergenic and smells so nice. Featuring sea moss extracts, it stimulates cell regeneration to help correct uneven tone, while the breathable sunscreen content helps protect against future discoloration and sun-induced complexion issues. At daytime, it can be worn well alone or under make-up. After a week of use, my skin feels supple and looks good. No irritation or unwanted breakouts! I’ll definitely repurchase.

3. Alba Botanica Even Advanced Natural Cleansing Milk (Sea Lettuce) (right most)

Completing the facial care combo is this fragrant soap-free milk cleanser that gently removes any traces of the day. Made with sea lettuce, aloe vera, and jojoba, the Alba Botanica Even Advanced Natural Cleansing Milk maintains the skin’s pH and provides moisture for a powerful regenerative effect. The “milk” attached to the name is quite appropriate, because it’s so creamy but light). Suggested use is to gently rub onto a face pre-moisted with warm water, to give you that Cleopatra bathing-in-milk feeling of luxury.

4. Nature’s Gate Liquid Hand Soap 

Made with herbal extracts, Nature’s Gate Moisturizing Liquid Soap gently cleanses and leaves hands feeling soft and pampered. We bought a ton of these as giveaways (in different scents) to my mom’s friends and colleagues and as gifts for exchange gift. The soap itself produces a nice lather, so far the best hand soap we’ve tried.

5. Nature’s Gate Shampoo and Conditioner

Nature’s Gate Shampoo and Conditioner are hands-down my favorite. I have influenced so many people in my circle to use these in replacement of mainstream products that contain harsh chemicals and ingredients that may produce adverse reactions and side effects. I recommend these for all hair types especially for colored hair since they don’t strip the dye from hair. The smell lingers and it’s amazing. We also bought these as gifts to friends.

6. The Carolina Nut Company Gourmet Peanuts

We tried the honey roasted and chipotle variants and shared them with my family and office mates. We liked them so much—we need more. In different spice varieties, Carolina nuts are fresh, well-seasoned nuts presented in regular nut tins with classy, well done labels. They’re so addictive! On my next two visits at Healthy Options, all the flavors were out of stock. OMG. The stores should restock more of these, so we can spread the goodness to everyone.

7. Sahale Snacks Parmesan Cheese + Herbs Crunchers (certified gluten-free)

Since The Carolina Nut Co. peanuts were not available during my recent trips at the stores, I was happy to find Sahale Snacks Parmesan Cheese + Herbs Crunchers. The herbs are a mix of Italian seasonings (oregano, basil, etc.) and peppers. When these combine with the Parmesan cheese, the resulting flavor is really delicious. The red pepper tilts these over to the spicier side of things, but that’s fine. Natural sweeteners, such as organic tapioca syrup and organic cane sugar, were used. I thought these will serve as a nice garnish on pasta or even cooked as an ingredient in spicy stir-fry dishes in this holiday season.

8. Natural Nectar Spread, ChocoDream Cookie Butter Speculoos Spread

Now who doesn’t love cookie butter speculoos spread? Cookie butter is a decadent treat that’s gained a cult following for a time. Spice cookies or speculoos (pronounced “speck-you-lows”) are a sign of the holiday season. Some call them St. Nicholas cookies—and they’re basically edible versions of the warm, fuzzy feelings we get when curl up in bed. We like it on toast, while some prefer having a couple of spoonfuls. But you know what we have yet to try? Put ChocoDream Cookie Butter Speculoos Spread as crust to cheesecake and add about a pint of ice cream on top to make a good speculoos pie. Yum!

9. Barney Butter Almond Butter Vanilla + Espresso

A “non-cheat” food with essential nutrition, Barney Butter Almond Butter Vanilla + Espresso can be described like “love.” Made with blended blanched almond butter, it’s a little bit subtle, robust, smooth and sweet. This is a great gift to those who are allergic to peanuts but do enjoy nutty flavor because it’s peanut-free and gluten-free. Its creamy texture is thick enough to spread or dip chunks of apple into. It spreads easily and is wonderful in sandwiches.

10. Healthy Options Sparkling Juices (Acai, Peach, Golden Apple, Grape, Rose, and Wildberry)

At only PhP 295 per bottle, these sparkling juices are very elegant and presentable gifts for Christmas and the holidays. We bought more than 10 bottles of these and we’re so glad that the wine bag and the Healthy Options apple logo sticker came with each as perfect packaging. These sparkling juices are non-alcoholic and refreshing. The flavor is sweet and bold, yet delicate and sophisticated. 🙂

Have you completed your holiday gift-giving list yet? If you are at a loss for Christmas or Thanksgiving gift ideas, this may serve as a dazzling list of possible presents for your family, friends, and yourself. Shopping at Healthy Options for products that deliver great value is always fun and satisfying. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 😉

[schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/HealthyOptionsPhilippines/” name=”Healthy Options Shangri-La Plaza” description=”Main Wing Shangri- La Plaza, Edsa Corner Shaw Boulevard, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, 1550 Metro Manila” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 635 0321″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-12-29″ ]

It’s been said that money can’t buy happiness, but spending money for retail therapy certainly makes me feel good. 🙂 We waltzed into the temporary store of Healthy Options in Shangri-La Mall last month and shopped for items which did not only make us happy but also safe and secure. 😉 Opposite the temp store was a large banner which read “COMING SOON: HEALTHY OPTIONS BIGGEST STORE IN THE PHILIPPINES.” High-five to everyone who’s excited for this! How big will it be as compared to the one in Glorietta 2 in Makati? It’s only a matter of months until we all find out. Meanwhile, in this post, I’m sharing the items we got in September.

Healthy Options Shopping Haul (September 2016)

Personal Care

I’ve always wanted to have whiter teeth for a brighter smile. 🙂 Instead of going to the “laser teeth whitening” route, I’m more open to try toothpastes with natural whitening agent. I’m happy that Healthy Options carries Jason Toothpaste Powersmile Vanilla Mint Fluoride-free Toothpaste. This prevents the formation of cavity causing plaque build-up with grapefruit’s seed extract, while freshening breath with smooth vanilla flavor followed by a kick of peppermint. Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is present as a natural whitener that aids in the removal of stains, promoting a beautiful smile.

I’ve read so many good reviews about the T.N. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel Natural Astringent online, so it’s easy to fall in love with it at first glance. Witch hazel is the only toner you will ever need. It has a gentle, non-drying formula. It removes impurities and conditions the skin without disturbing its natural moisture balance. I use it after my facial cleanser and it works fine. Can’t miss this one! I love that it also comes in travel-size packaging.

I told my sister about the known dangers of using deodorant with aluminum chlorohydrate (which I shortly discussed here), and she was convinced to try out an aluminum, parabens and propylene glycol-free deodorant from Healthy Options. Lafe’s Deodorant Spray (Aloe) is odorless and it does not contain harmful chemicals. It sprays on easily, doesn’t cause itching, and doesn’t stain on clothing.

Ideal for damaged hair and split ends, Nature’s Gate Chamomile and Mimosa Bark Replenishing Shampoo smells really nice. The main reason why I got it was because this hair product assists in restoring color-treated hair and leaves it shiny, clean, and soft. Best of all, it’s sulfate-free! My sister uses Nature’s Gate Chamomile hair conditioner to take care of her ombre hair (see pic above).

Other things we got were Nature’s Gate Liquid Soap (very moisturizing and well packaged), Nature’s Gate Pomegranate Sunflower Velvet Moisture Body Wash, and Nature’s Gate Tea Tree Calming Shampoo. Yes, we’re such big fans of Nature’s Gate! 🙂

Grocery

Christmas is fast approaching and Mom just wanted to try out Healthy Options’ sparkling juice so she can have a “taste test” before giving bottles away as gifts to friends in the holiday season. We chose the Sparkling Red Grape Juice. It’s non-alcoholic but refreshing nonetheless, a great alternative drink to champagne when celebrating a special occasion.

Other grocery products we brought home were: Bissinger’s Resealable Blueberries (I love eating these especially when I’m unhappy or stressed), Ocho Dark Chocolate Covered Peppermint (as a boost for lazy days), Beanfields Bean & Rice Chips Nachos (a perk-me-up snack while analyzing data at work), Popcorners Sweet Chili (my super fave gluten-free popcorn chips), American Honey (in cute bear packaging), Pacific Natural Foods Hazelnut Non-Dairy Beverage, and Natural Nectar Almond Coconut Spread (perfect to enhance toast, croissants, waffles, crepes, apples, bananas). 🙂