New year is approaching. Have you listed your resolutions yet? Do you have any new goals for your blog? I see you still checking in your blog stats a million times a day to reach a certain amount before the new year hits. Well, stop doing that. What you need to do is block out some time to polish your blog and giving it a breath of fresh air. I have compiled some ideas for you to up your blogging game and getting it in shape for a new year. 

Give your blog a fresh new look

This is the right time to roll out an eye-catching design for your blog because a lot of theme designers on Etsy are having big sales, up to 60% off! The theme I am currently using by UnderlineDesigns is on sale where I initially bought it for RM99. Now you can get it for RM36 only. It's definitely a steal! If you're looking for premium themes to have your blog facelifted, Etsy is your best friend.

Theme designers on Etsy that are worth checking:

1. UnderlineDesigns
2. SimplyTheStudio
3. soulmusedesign
4. KateNdesigns
5. LucidThemes
6. LovelogicDesign
7. SkyandStars
8. BrandAndBlogger
9. MairaGall
10. BlogPixie

Find and fix broken links

Broken links are just bad for the search engines as well as the user experience. I track down a bunch of broken links and other technical errors on my blog every once in a month. So if you have never done this, you need to do it to improve your blog performance before the new year begins. The internet has a lot of options when it comes to broken links checker but I personally love ahrefs.com.

Update your 'About' page

Yes, it goes as simple as updating your 'About' page. I know some people love the story-telling type of 'About' page but if you're looking forward to working with brands, you have to make it a little bit more professional and sophisticated. Sure, you can add lots of quirks that you have but still have it looking professional. Remember, one of the first places that brands or new users look is your 'About' page.

Delete any unnecessary widgets on your blog

Keep only the ones that help you and ditch those that don't benefit you at all (e.g. favorite blog list/ blogrolls, brand logos/ badges, etc.) Removing certain widgets on your blog is consider important because it diverts the viewers' attention to your content - where it supposed to be. Deleting widgets and plugins will also speed up your blog, maximize the user experience and minimize security risks.

A new blog header/ logo!

If you love your current theme and decided to keep using it, a new blog header/ logo is definitely a great option! You can hire someone else to do that for you but it comes with a cost, of course. If you don't want to spend on a blog logo, you can easily create one on Canva. Having a new blog logo is like having a brand new hijab for me!

Fix your underperforming contents

Contents that you have put up years ago that didn't go as planned. Well, by this point you have already learned so much, you know what is wrong and what to fix. Take this opportunity to visit your old content and fix the dynamics. Save it while you can. It could drive large traffic to your blog, you know.

What are your prompts to make your blog better than ever for a new year?

• Sunday, November 29, 2020
• blog tips

Ways To Touch Up Your Blog For A New Year

New year is approaching. Have you listed your resolutions yet? Do you have any new goals for your blog? I see you still checking in your blog stats a million times a day to reach a certain amount before the new year hits. Well, stop doing that. What you need to do is block out some time to polish your blog and giving it a breath of fresh air. I have compiled some ideas for you to up your blogging game and getting it in shape for a new year. 

Give your blog a fresh new look

This is the right time to roll out an eye-catching design for your blog because a lot of theme designers on Etsy are having big sales, up to 60% off! The theme I am currently using by UnderlineDesigns is on sale where I initially bought it for RM99. Now you can get it for RM36 only. It's definitely a steal! If you're looking for premium themes to have your blog facelifted, Etsy is your best friend.

Theme designers on Etsy that are worth checking:

1. UnderlineDesigns
2. SimplyTheStudio
3. soulmusedesign
4. KateNdesigns
5. LucidThemes
6. LovelogicDesign
7. SkyandStars
8. BrandAndBlogger
9. MairaGall
10. BlogPixie

Find and fix broken links

Broken links are just bad for the search engines as well as the user experience. I track down a bunch of broken links and other technical errors on my blog every once in a month. So if you have never done this, you need to do it to improve your blog performance before the new year begins. The internet has a lot of options when it comes to broken links checker but I personally love ahrefs.com.

Update your 'About' page

Yes, it goes as simple as updating your 'About' page. I know some people love the story-telling type of 'About' page but if you're looking forward to working with brands, you have to make it a little bit more professional and sophisticated. Sure, you can add lots of quirks that you have but still have it looking professional. Remember, one of the first places that brands or new users look is your 'About' page.

Delete any unnecessary widgets on your blog

Keep only the ones that help you and ditch those that don't benefit you at all (e.g. favorite blog list/ blogrolls, brand logos/ badges, etc.) Removing certain widgets on your blog is consider important because it diverts the viewers' attention to your content - where it supposed to be. Deleting widgets and plugins will also speed up your blog, maximize the user experience and minimize security risks.

A new blog header/ logo!

If you love your current theme and decided to keep using it, a new blog header/ logo is definitely a great option! You can hire someone else to do that for you but it comes with a cost, of course. If you don't want to spend on a blog logo, you can easily create one on Canva. Having a new blog logo is like having a brand new hijab for me!

Fix your underperforming contents

Contents that you have put up years ago that didn't go as planned. Well, by this point you have already learned so much, you know what is wrong and what to fix. Take this opportunity to visit your old content and fix the dynamics. Save it while you can. It could drive large traffic to your blog, you know.

What are your prompts to make your blog better than ever for a new year?

Read more »

 

I am 24 today...

It feels surreal to say that. Life has been so amazing to me. I have learned a lot, and I have grown a lot as well. Every year on my birthday, I take the opportunity to write this __ Things To Know Before Turning __ in my journal except for last year I decided to made it public where I shared 23 Things To Know Before Turning 23 here, and now here it is again. A compilation of musings from the past year, seeing how much change there has been. And I would say it's a lot.

Here are 24 Things To Know Before Turning 24.

1. There is a lot of negativity in the world, the last thing you need is more negativity. Be good to your soul. Show yourself more kindness, love, and grace.

2. Everything else in this world change, only God does not. 

3. Celebrate yourself. Celebrate how far you have come even it's the littlest bit.

4. Not one answer is the answer to every problem.

5. No situation or problem is permanent in life. It's going to work out in the end. Trust the process.

6. Cats are little bits of heaven. They bring so much joy and that's on period.

7. No one will help you more than you can help yourself. If you want something to happen, get off your ass and make it happen. Opportunities don't just fall from the sky, you gotta make it happen.

8. Worrying gets you nowhere. It's pointless. So just shift your focus and control what you CAN control.

9. If something doesn't make you happy anymore, stop doing it, leave it, let it go.

10. Life is going to flow how it flows.

11. You are so young still. You don't have it all together and it's fine. There's so much pressure to be the most secure person by the age of 20-something, the most successful, the one who married first. It takes time to create your journey in life. If we had it all together now, there would be nothing to strive for.

12. The feeling of stagnant is a danger zone. Most of the time.

13. You are both a student and a teacher. You will never stop learning. But as you learn, you have gained so much to share with others.

14. Love is not running out of style. There's no need to rush. Your love life is NOT a competition. Period with a T.

15. Be your own best friend. You can't expect too much from the best friends of yours.

16. Nobody is in charge to manipulate your stand/ principles but yourself. 

17. “Don't play where you eat.”

18. Not crossing off everything on your to-do list is okay.

19. It's okay to be both introverted and extroverted. Don't have to feel like you have to fit into a mold of anything or anyone.

20. Always spend some time to have a deep, heart to heart talk with someone you love.

21. Your education doesn't define you. 

22. Having a journal is not bullshit. Having a gratitude list is not a waste of time. 

23. Love your job but never fall in love with the company.

24. It's okay to be high maintenance.

Off to celebrate! Thank you so much for all the thoughtful birthday messages, guys. You made my day! xx

What else you need to add to the list before turning 24?

• Monday, November 23, 2020
• personal

24 Things To Know Before Turning 24

 

I am 24 today...

It feels surreal to say that. Life has been so amazing to me. I have learned a lot, and I have grown a lot as well. Every year on my birthday, I take the opportunity to write this __ Things To Know Before Turning __ in my journal except for last year I decided to made it public where I shared 23 Things To Know Before Turning 23 here, and now here it is again. A compilation of musings from the past year, seeing how much change there has been. And I would say it's a lot.

Here are 24 Things To Know Before Turning 24.

1. There is a lot of negativity in the world, the last thing you need is more negativity. Be good to your soul. Show yourself more kindness, love, and grace.

2. Everything else in this world change, only God does not. 

3. Celebrate yourself. Celebrate how far you have come even it's the littlest bit.

4. Not one answer is the answer to every problem.

5. No situation or problem is permanent in life. It's going to work out in the end. Trust the process.

6. Cats are little bits of heaven. They bring so much joy and that's on period.

7. No one will help you more than you can help yourself. If you want something to happen, get off your ass and make it happen. Opportunities don't just fall from the sky, you gotta make it happen.

8. Worrying gets you nowhere. It's pointless. So just shift your focus and control what you CAN control.

9. If something doesn't make you happy anymore, stop doing it, leave it, let it go.

10. Life is going to flow how it flows.

11. You are so young still. You don't have it all together and it's fine. There's so much pressure to be the most secure person by the age of 20-something, the most successful, the one who married first. It takes time to create your journey in life. If we had it all together now, there would be nothing to strive for.

12. The feeling of stagnant is a danger zone. Most of the time.

13. You are both a student and a teacher. You will never stop learning. But as you learn, you have gained so much to share with others.

14. Love is not running out of style. There's no need to rush. Your love life is NOT a competition. Period with a T.

15. Be your own best friend. You can't expect too much from the best friends of yours.

16. Nobody is in charge to manipulate your stand/ principles but yourself. 

17. “Don't play where you eat.”

18. Not crossing off everything on your to-do list is okay.

19. It's okay to be both introverted and extroverted. Don't have to feel like you have to fit into a mold of anything or anyone.

20. Always spend some time to have a deep, heart to heart talk with someone you love.

21. Your education doesn't define you. 

22. Having a journal is not bullshit. Having a gratitude list is not a waste of time. 

23. Love your job but never fall in love with the company.

24. It's okay to be high maintenance.

Off to celebrate! Thank you so much for all the thoughtful birthday messages, guys. You made my day! xx

What else you need to add to the list before turning 24?

Read more »

Hello, gorgeousness! Photography blogging is not my forte but having a blog will automatically lure you to dive into the photography/ flatlay pond. I am by no means a professional photographer. I don't own any DSLR, to begin with. But I thought it might be helpful to share with you my tips and tricks when it comes to taking blog photos ourselves and how you can be better at it.

Use a bright background

Using bright background helps when working with a limited light source. This is a useful trick for those of you who have a smaller room or space to work with. White, beige, and nude colors are one of the great choices since it's simple and lean more towards clean-looking. I personally love a marble background because it has the ability to hide shadows (if that's what you're up to) easily so your flatlays are popping or my recent favorite is a fluffy off-white carpet.

Natural light is the way to go

Natural lighting is almost always the best lighting you can use for your photos. I am not a professional photographer, but if you ask one they probably will tell you the same thing. Indoor shots near the window with curtains up to let the sunlight in will work best. It's my method, personally. I usually wait for the afternoon sun because that's the easiest light to work with. I can manipulate the shadows on whatever I am photographing. 

Let's see a side by side photos I took for my blog just to compare which one is better in terms of lighting.

 

The one on the left is obviously better. Both photos were taken indoors but the one on the right was a shot near a window with the curtains up and the right one was not and was poorly taken using my bedroom light, hence the quality of the photo. 

Play around with framing

Framing is basically how you adjust the angle of your camera so that your photos turn out nice with whatever your subject is. I usually place my subject in the center and I will play around with the frame where sometimes I want the subject to be on one side of the frame and not center. This one is definitely a long time coming for me. It takes practice after practice and you will get there too. 

Just take plenty of photos

When taking photos, experiment with different arrangements and this is where learning about framing is useful. I typically take dozens of photos and chose the best shots to show the world. You don't need to get it right in one try. Taking plenty of photos will give you a lot to choose from. It's always better that way as well as to train you to take better shots.

You don't need to spend a fortune

Smartphones camera have gotten very good in recent years, and you absolutely can take beautiful photos using only smartphones, I tell you. You don't need to invest in a beast of a DSLR to take good photos. It's all about composition, how much you style your photos, and how strategic your location of the shot is.

Spice it up with some props

When you take photos it can be handy to have some props to style those photos. It can be a game-changer! Props can be anything. Yes, anything you can think of. Scarfs, makeup brushes, books, shirts, fake (or even real) plants, dried flowers, a cup of tea, to name a few. Anything that can give your pictures some life. I adore flatlays from @siriusiqa and @trulybynia on Instagram. I get so inspired by their shots! Who's your favorite when it comes to flatlays and photography?

Or keep it simple

Some say simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. And I am not mad at it. A lot of the times, crowding up your photos with too many props and decor can defeat the purpose of your photography and you will up with a less professional photo. I am all about simplicity now more than ever. I will always have my subject in the frame and adding at least a prop like fake flowers to accompany my subject. If you're a beginner, starting out simple is always a great idea and try to add new elements to your photos as you go.

Enhance with editing

A little editing won't hurt anybody. It's there to help enhance the photo's elements. You don't have to be an expert to make small changes that will make your photos better. I use Lightroom to edit most of my photos. If you haven't invested in Lightroom, now is the time. It can take a good photo to another level of great. Having been there and done it, I recommend not over editing your photos. You don't need crazy filters, dramatic color change, just keep things simple and crisp. 

With all these tips, I would say experiment, experiment, experiment. Take as many shots as you can until you find the right way to do it. Nobody was ever born knowing how to take photos, let alone for a blog. Baby steps, don't get discouraged by all the nice pictures you see on other blogs. I hope my tips were useful to you in any way!

Do you take your own photos? What's your secret on taking better photos for your blog?

• Wednesday, November 11, 2020
• blog tips

8 Useful Tips On Taking Better Photos For Your Blog

Hello, gorgeousness! Photography blogging is not my forte but having a blog will automatically lure you to dive into the photography/ flatlay pond. I am by no means a professional photographer. I don't own any DSLR, to begin with. But I thought it might be helpful to share with you my tips and tricks when it comes to taking blog photos ourselves and how you can be better at it.

Use a bright background

Using bright background helps when working with a limited light source. This is a useful trick for those of you who have a smaller room or space to work with. White, beige, and nude colors are one of the great choices since it's simple and lean more towards clean-looking. I personally love a marble background because it has the ability to hide shadows (if that's what you're up to) easily so your flatlays are popping or my recent favorite is a fluffy off-white carpet.

Natural light is the way to go

Natural lighting is almost always the best lighting you can use for your photos. I am not a professional photographer, but if you ask one they probably will tell you the same thing. Indoor shots near the window with curtains up to let the sunlight in will work best. It's my method, personally. I usually wait for the afternoon sun because that's the easiest light to work with. I can manipulate the shadows on whatever I am photographing. 

Let's see a side by side photos I took for my blog just to compare which one is better in terms of lighting.

 

The one on the left is obviously better. Both photos were taken indoors but the one on the right was a shot near a window with the curtains up and the right one was not and was poorly taken using my bedroom light, hence the quality of the photo. 

Play around with framing

Framing is basically how you adjust the angle of your camera so that your photos turn out nice with whatever your subject is. I usually place my subject in the center and I will play around with the frame where sometimes I want the subject to be on one side of the frame and not center. This one is definitely a long time coming for me. It takes practice after practice and you will get there too. 

Just take plenty of photos

When taking photos, experiment with different arrangements and this is where learning about framing is useful. I typically take dozens of photos and chose the best shots to show the world. You don't need to get it right in one try. Taking plenty of photos will give you a lot to choose from. It's always better that way as well as to train you to take better shots.

You don't need to spend a fortune

Smartphones camera have gotten very good in recent years, and you absolutely can take beautiful photos using only smartphones, I tell you. You don't need to invest in a beast of a DSLR to take good photos. It's all about composition, how much you style your photos, and how strategic your location of the shot is.

Spice it up with some props

When you take photos it can be handy to have some props to style those photos. It can be a game-changer! Props can be anything. Yes, anything you can think of. Scarfs, makeup brushes, books, shirts, fake (or even real) plants, dried flowers, a cup of tea, to name a few. Anything that can give your pictures some life. I adore flatlays from @siriusiqa and @trulybynia on Instagram. I get so inspired by their shots! Who's your favorite when it comes to flatlays and photography?

Or keep it simple

Some say simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. And I am not mad at it. A lot of the times, crowding up your photos with too many props and decor can defeat the purpose of your photography and you will up with a less professional photo. I am all about simplicity now more than ever. I will always have my subject in the frame and adding at least a prop like fake flowers to accompany my subject. If you're a beginner, starting out simple is always a great idea and try to add new elements to your photos as you go.

Enhance with editing

A little editing won't hurt anybody. It's there to help enhance the photo's elements. You don't have to be an expert to make small changes that will make your photos better. I use Lightroom to edit most of my photos. If you haven't invested in Lightroom, now is the time. It can take a good photo to another level of great. Having been there and done it, I recommend not over editing your photos. You don't need crazy filters, dramatic color change, just keep things simple and crisp. 

With all these tips, I would say experiment, experiment, experiment. Take as many shots as you can until you find the right way to do it. Nobody was ever born knowing how to take photos, let alone for a blog. Baby steps, don't get discouraged by all the nice pictures you see on other blogs. I hope my tips were useful to you in any way!

Do you take your own photos? What's your secret on taking better photos for your blog?

Read more »

Hello, gorgeousness! In today's post, I will be sharing with you my experience with Kayman Beauty's new baby that I got a few weeks ago which is the CoalBerry Cleanser and why I am obsessed with it. (Spoiler alert: because it's one of the keys to flawless skin). I made it very clear how I love the soap version so much. I have gone through lots of CoalFace Soap. It's even featured in my most repurchased product post but I have recently converted to the newer version of it. And I am slowly ditching my CoalFace Soap? What? Who am I?

Before we start, I have to throw a quick disclaimer. I am not being paid to write this blog post. It's a hundred percent my true experience and honest review. I am coming from a good place. If this cleanser or any other skincare products from this brand specifically did not suit your skin, please note that everyone's skin is different, and lifestyle plays a huge role in skincare too. I personally never had an issue with Kayman Beauty's products so if you think I am being biased, trust me, I am trying to be as critical as I can but can't help it if they put out really good products, right?

Okay, now I can continue my skincare talk. First things first,

“Your cleanser can make or break your skin care routine.”

I just had to put it out there. That is why it's important to get it right from the outset. By getting it right meaning you have to use a low pH cleanser. At least that is one of the requirements I need from my cleansers. Kayman Beauty made some killer low pH cleansers out there. Their CoalFace Soap, (which is my first love) CoalFace Cleanser and CoalBerry Cleanser have set a new local beauty standard in my book.

When buying a cleanser, make sure it's gentle, hydrating, and non-stripping. I can guarantee CoalBerry Cleanser is through and through a gentle, hydrating, and skin-soothing formula. It has a special blend of 10 different berry extracts that are known for their potent source of antioxidants that will benefit the skin from sun-damage to anti-aging!

The first 6 ingredients of this product are consists of gentle surfactants that are proven low risk for sensitizing skin and emollients that soothe and cover the skin with a protective film to trap in moisture. 

Here I give you the full ingredients list, just because.

Aqua, Ammonium Laureth Sulphate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Fragaria Vesca L. (Strawberry) Extract, Euterpe Oleracea (Acai Berry) Extract, Vaccinium Cyanacoccus Rydb. (Blueberry) Extract, Rubus Idaeus Linn. (Raspberry) Extract, Lycium Barbarum L. (Gojiberry) Extract, Rubus Fruticosus L. (Blackberry) Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Extract, Morus Nigra L. (Mulberry) Extract, Myrciaria Dubia (Camu-Camu) Extract, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Polyquaternium-7, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Triethylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Poloxamer 184, Activated Charcoal Powder, Honey Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Disodium EDTA

As far as texture goes, CoalBerry Cleanser has a light, gel texture which is the one that my skin loves when it comes to skincare products. It's mild, lightweight consistency. I have oily skin so gel textured products are everything to me. I am not saying this on behalf of my skin and my skin only. No. It's proven that most of the time gel cleansers are better for oily and acne-prone skin. Gel cleansers are great for deep cleansing at the same time do not strip the skins' natural oil.

When it comes to the scent, I fancy a cleanser that has a little bit of a pleasant scent because I want to enjoy the moment I cleanse my face. However, I had to learn this the hard way. My skin does not mesh well with fragrance (and alcohol too!) in skincare. Thank the lord, CoalBerry Cleanser is fragrance-free! Fragrance is known as a common sensitizing ingredient. (Anti-Hyram, please do not come for me) I must say there are several fragrances that I can deal with such as citrus and tangerine but other than that they are pretty sensitizing to my skin. I thought this cleanser would smell like a bunch of berries knowing that it has several berry extracts in here.

---

I have been incorporating CoalBerry Cleanser in my AM and PM routine religiously ever since I got it. I gotta be honest, my skin has improved so much in terms of my complexion and moisture barrier. My skin feels so good after cleansing and not feeling any tightness at all. Because it's a low pH cleanser, it preps my skin to absorb all the other benefits from the rest of the products in my routine. Here's how I include CoalBerry Cleanser in my routine:

• AM skincare routine: Micellar water > CoalBerry Cleanser > Essence > Serum > Moisturizer > Sunscreen

• PM skincare routine: Cleansing oil > CoalBerry Cleanser > Essence > Serum > Sheet mask > Moisturizer

Some of you might not know about this brand as a whole but I hope some of the points I have highlighted in today's post you may use as a guide in finding the best cleanser out there. “Get it right from the get-go.” I have always mentioned this to everyone around me because once again, your cleanser can make or break your skincare routine. 

 

Website: Kayman Beauty

Available to purchase online: Here | Here

Price: RM49.00

Sizes: Full-size 120ml | Travel size not available, yet

Period After Opening (PAO): 12 months

Have you heard of CoalBerry Cleanser? Let me know what's your current favorite cleanser!

• Sunday, November 08, 2020
• beauty

13 Ways Kayman Beauty CoalBerry Cleanser Can Get You Closer To Beautiful Skin

Hello, gorgeousness! In today's post, I will be sharing with you my experience with Kayman Beauty's new baby that I got a few weeks ago which is the CoalBerry Cleanser and why I am obsessed with it. (Spoiler alert: because it's one of the keys to flawless skin). I made it very clear how I love the soap version so much. I have gone through lots of CoalFace Soap. It's even featured in my most repurchased product post but I have recently converted to the newer version of it. And I am slowly ditching my CoalFace Soap? What? Who am I?

Before we start, I have to throw a quick disclaimer. I am not being paid to write this blog post. It's a hundred percent my true experience and honest review. I am coming from a good place. If this cleanser or any other skincare products from this brand specifically did not suit your skin, please note that everyone's skin is different, and lifestyle plays a huge role in skincare too. I personally never had an issue with Kayman Beauty's products so if you think I am being biased, trust me, I am trying to be as critical as I can but can't help it if they put out really good products, right?

Okay, now I can continue my skincare talk. First things first,

“Your cleanser can make or break your skin care routine.”

I just had to put it out there. That is why it's important to get it right from the outset. By getting it right meaning you have to use a low pH cleanser. At least that is one of the requirements I need from my cleansers. Kayman Beauty made some killer low pH cleansers out there. Their CoalFace Soap, (which is my first love) CoalFace Cleanser and CoalBerry Cleanser have set a new local beauty standard in my book.

When buying a cleanser, make sure it's gentle, hydrating, and non-stripping. I can guarantee CoalBerry Cleanser is through and through a gentle, hydrating, and skin-soothing formula. It has a special blend of 10 different berry extracts that are known for their potent source of antioxidants that will benefit the skin from sun-damage to anti-aging!

The first 6 ingredients of this product are consists of gentle surfactants that are proven low risk for sensitizing skin and emollients that soothe and cover the skin with a protective film to trap in moisture. 

Here I give you the full ingredients list, just because.

Aqua, Ammonium Laureth Sulphate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Fragaria Vesca L. (Strawberry) Extract, Euterpe Oleracea (Acai Berry) Extract, Vaccinium Cyanacoccus Rydb. (Blueberry) Extract, Rubus Idaeus Linn. (Raspberry) Extract, Lycium Barbarum L. (Gojiberry) Extract, Rubus Fruticosus L. (Blackberry) Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Extract, Morus Nigra L. (Mulberry) Extract, Myrciaria Dubia (Camu-Camu) Extract, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Polyquaternium-7, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Triethylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Poloxamer 184, Activated Charcoal Powder, Honey Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Disodium EDTA

As far as texture goes, CoalBerry Cleanser has a light, gel texture which is the one that my skin loves when it comes to skincare products. It's mild, lightweight consistency. I have oily skin so gel textured products are everything to me. I am not saying this on behalf of my skin and my skin only. No. It's proven that most of the time gel cleansers are better for oily and acne-prone skin. Gel cleansers are great for deep cleansing at the same time do not strip the skins' natural oil.

When it comes to the scent, I fancy a cleanser that has a little bit of a pleasant scent because I want to enjoy the moment I cleanse my face. However, I had to learn this the hard way. My skin does not mesh well with fragrance (and alcohol too!) in skincare. Thank the lord, CoalBerry Cleanser is fragrance-free! Fragrance is known as a common sensitizing ingredient. (Anti-Hyram, please do not come for me) I must say there are several fragrances that I can deal with such as citrus and tangerine but other than that they are pretty sensitizing to my skin. I thought this cleanser would smell like a bunch of berries knowing that it has several berry extracts in here.

---

I have been incorporating CoalBerry Cleanser in my AM and PM routine religiously ever since I got it. I gotta be honest, my skin has improved so much in terms of my complexion and moisture barrier. My skin feels so good after cleansing and not feeling any tightness at all. Because it's a low pH cleanser, it preps my skin to absorb all the other benefits from the rest of the products in my routine. Here's how I include CoalBerry Cleanser in my routine:

• AM skincare routine: Micellar water > CoalBerry Cleanser > Essence > Serum > Moisturizer > Sunscreen

• PM skincare routine: Cleansing oil > CoalBerry Cleanser > Essence > Serum > Sheet mask > Moisturizer

Some of you might not know about this brand as a whole but I hope some of the points I have highlighted in today's post you may use as a guide in finding the best cleanser out there. “Get it right from the get-go.” I have always mentioned this to everyone around me because once again, your cleanser can make or break your skincare routine. 

 

Website: Kayman Beauty

Available to purchase online: Here | Here

Price: RM49.00

Sizes: Full-size 120ml | Travel size not available, yet

Period After Opening (PAO): 12 months

Have you heard of CoalBerry Cleanser? Let me know what's your current favorite cleanser!

Read more »

Hello, gorgeousness! I am bringing back this series because honestly, I haven't been the best in keeping up with all of my series on this blog. Anyway, this series features my favorite beauty products as well as plenty of great recommendations that obviously are budget-friendly. This is my kind of joy, you guys. I am all about the affordable. I am your 'bargain girl' and will always be. Why? Because budget beauty blogs (like yours truly) are thin on the ground in my opinion. So if you're intrigued by all affordable beauty, I hope this series is the one for you!

Everything that has to do with eyes is going to be covered in today's topic. It seems that my selections are mainly popular products. Some are at the mid-range price, some are very affordable. Regardless, I think all of it is amazing and of course, affordable. How many times do I have to mention affordable in this? I think y'all probably get it by now. 

Eyeshadow primer

Essence I Love Stage Eyeshadow Base // View product

I love Essence products; affordable and the brand offers a wide range of products too. Why I love this eyeshadow primer because it is one of the cheapest (if not the cheapest) eyeshadow primers available in Malaysian drugstore. I am a girl with eyelids that have lines so it helps with creasing of eyeshadow, big time. My eyeshadow also lasts longer. I can get a maximum of 8 hours of wear. That's amazing for it being a drugstore eyeshadow primer. I have recommended this to my friends and my family and they loved it! It's cheap and gets the job done pretty well. Enough said.

Eyeshadow palette

Maybelline City Mini Palettes // View product

Maybelline has always been my go-to. So they deserve to be mentioned first. I think their City Mini Palettes are stunning. You get six pigmented eyeshadows in one mini palette that fits right in the palm of your hand. Each palette has a combo of shimmery finishes and also satins, I believe. The satins are the closest to mattes. They're all fantastic shadows! You can hardly go wrong with this; great pigmentation, blends like a dream, and long-wearing.

Rimmel London Magnif'Eyes Crimson Edition Palette // View product

If you're looking for a dupe for the Urban Decay Naked Cherry Palette, this could potentially be the one. You get twelve powder eyeshadow retailing at RM35 and if you're lucky, you can get it at RM20+ during sale seasons. The formula of these shadows are pretty impressive. Pigmentation is superb, has only a small amount of fallout, and easy to work with. 

Makeup Revolution Iconic Fever Palette 

This is a pretty mid-range price point for an eyeshadow palette. It is a flipping RM60 palette. However, the quality of the mattes and shimmers in here are insanely amazing; buttery, very blendable, and pigmented. The colors in this palette particularly are perfect for day to day look. It has burnt oranges, rich burgundy, and a good mixture of shimmer finishes. It's definitely a dupe for the Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette that is a whopping RM245!

Eyeliner 

IN2IT Hair Brush Eyeliner Pen // View product

When it comes to eyeliner, I have a pretty good track record with IN2IT. I tried almost all of their eyeliner products be it liquid liner, felt-tip liner, brush pens, pencils, you name it. But if I have to choose only one from the brand, it is definitely their Hair Brush Eyeliner Pen. I am emotionally attached to this eyeliner because I have been using it since my high school days. The brush tip is specifically created for someone that is not so good at lining their eyes (read: me) because it is so flexible but easy to control. I can create a thin or dramatic liner with no pressure at all. It is also long-wearing and pretty smudge-proof to me. 

Essence Long Lasting Eye Pencil // View product

Once again, Essence making an appearance. You gotta love this because of the price! It is probably one of the best drugstore eye pencils out there. Very affordable, yet very high quality. It is a pretty good deal, you guys. It applies smoothly, smudge-free, and it comes in a variety of shades. 

Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Liner // View product

Liner that comes in a pot like this might overwhelm someone out there but it is not a big deal. It is a creamy gel texture that glides so smooth and it has a matte finish. The brush provided gives you great control over the application. The brush works great if you wish to create a more exaggerated look but I can create the most simple and humble line with this product. And it doesn't budge. Not one bit!

Mascara

Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara // View product

One of the drugstore's best selling mascaras of all time and for good reasons! This mascara lifts, curls, makes your lashes super duper long and thick. It doesn't flake, won't smudge, and totally no 'panda eyes' for me. Ugh, this mascara is love! If you have thin, sad lashes, please go and buy this mascara now. Highly recommend!

Eyebrow pencil

Silkygirl Expert Brow Slim Liner // View product

It's the 1.8mm slim tip brow liner for me! I can create the most precise brow finishing with this. Whether I want to go with bold, pronounced brows or slim brows, no problem at all. It lasts the entire days out even after perspiring on a hot sunny day. I also appreciate that it comes in a retractable type so I don't have to worry about sharpening it. 

Alright, there we go. My list of affordable eye makeup that I think all are pretty much covered. I hope you guys enjoyed reading my recommendations. These are products that I personally use, and highly recommend. This list is filled with some of the good stuff that worth every penny. Thank you for spending your time reading this post until the end and be seeing you xx

Have you used any of the products mentioned?

• Monday, October 26, 2020
• beauty

Let's Talk Eyes | Affordable Eye Makeup

Hello, gorgeousness! I am bringing back this series because honestly, I haven't been the best in keeping up with all of my series on this blog. Anyway, this series features my favorite beauty products as well as plenty of great recommendations that obviously are budget-friendly. This is my kind of joy, you guys. I am all about the affordable. I am your 'bargain girl' and will always be. Why? Because budget beauty blogs (like yours truly) are thin on the ground in my opinion. So if you're intrigued by all affordable beauty, I hope this series is the one for you!

Everything that has to do with eyes is going to be covered in today's topic. It seems that my selections are mainly popular products. Some are at the mid-range price, some are very affordable. Regardless, I think all of it is amazing and of course, affordable. How many times do I have to mention affordable in this? I think y'all probably get it by now. 

Eyeshadow primer

Essence I Love Stage Eyeshadow Base // View product

I love Essence products; affordable and the brand offers a wide range of products too. Why I love this eyeshadow primer because it is one of the cheapest (if not the cheapest) eyeshadow primers available in Malaysian drugstore. I am a girl with eyelids that have lines so it helps with creasing of eyeshadow, big time. My eyeshadow also lasts longer. I can get a maximum of 8 hours of wear. That's amazing for it being a drugstore eyeshadow primer. I have recommended this to my friends and my family and they loved it! It's cheap and gets the job done pretty well. Enough said.

Eyeshadow palette

Maybelline City Mini Palettes // View product

Maybelline has always been my go-to. So they deserve to be mentioned first. I think their City Mini Palettes are stunning. You get six pigmented eyeshadows in one mini palette that fits right in the palm of your hand. Each palette has a combo of shimmery finishes and also satins, I believe. The satins are the closest to mattes. They're all fantastic shadows! You can hardly go wrong with this; great pigmentation, blends like a dream, and long-wearing.

Rimmel London Magnif'Eyes Crimson Edition Palette // View product

If you're looking for a dupe for the Urban Decay Naked Cherry Palette, this could potentially be the one. You get twelve powder eyeshadow retailing at RM35 and if you're lucky, you can get it at RM20+ during sale seasons. The formula of these shadows are pretty impressive. Pigmentation is superb, has only a small amount of fallout, and easy to work with. 

Makeup Revolution Iconic Fever Palette 

This is a pretty mid-range price point for an eyeshadow palette. It is a flipping RM60 palette. However, the quality of the mattes and shimmers in here are insanely amazing; buttery, very blendable, and pigmented. The colors in this palette particularly are perfect for day to day look. It has burnt oranges, rich burgundy, and a good mixture of shimmer finishes. It's definitely a dupe for the Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette that is a whopping RM245!

Eyeliner 

IN2IT Hair Brush Eyeliner Pen // View product

When it comes to eyeliner, I have a pretty good track record with IN2IT. I tried almost all of their eyeliner products be it liquid liner, felt-tip liner, brush pens, pencils, you name it. But if I have to choose only one from the brand, it is definitely their Hair Brush Eyeliner Pen. I am emotionally attached to this eyeliner because I have been using it since my high school days. The brush tip is specifically created for someone that is not so good at lining their eyes (read: me) because it is so flexible but easy to control. I can create a thin or dramatic liner with no pressure at all. It is also long-wearing and pretty smudge-proof to me. 

Essence Long Lasting Eye Pencil // View product

Once again, Essence making an appearance. You gotta love this because of the price! It is probably one of the best drugstore eye pencils out there. Very affordable, yet very high quality. It is a pretty good deal, you guys. It applies smoothly, smudge-free, and it comes in a variety of shades. 

Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Liner // View product

Liner that comes in a pot like this might overwhelm someone out there but it is not a big deal. It is a creamy gel texture that glides so smooth and it has a matte finish. The brush provided gives you great control over the application. The brush works great if you wish to create a more exaggerated look but I can create the most simple and humble line with this product. And it doesn't budge. Not one bit!

Mascara

Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara // View product

One of the drugstore's best selling mascaras of all time and for good reasons! This mascara lifts, curls, makes your lashes super duper long and thick. It doesn't flake, won't smudge, and totally no 'panda eyes' for me. Ugh, this mascara is love! If you have thin, sad lashes, please go and buy this mascara now. Highly recommend!

Eyebrow pencil

Silkygirl Expert Brow Slim Liner // View product

It's the 1.8mm slim tip brow liner for me! I can create the most precise brow finishing with this. Whether I want to go with bold, pronounced brows or slim brows, no problem at all. It lasts the entire days out even after perspiring on a hot sunny day. I also appreciate that it comes in a retractable type so I don't have to worry about sharpening it. 

Alright, there we go. My list of affordable eye makeup that I think all are pretty much covered. I hope you guys enjoyed reading my recommendations. These are products that I personally use, and highly recommend. This list is filled with some of the good stuff that worth every penny. Thank you for spending your time reading this post until the end and be seeing you xx

Have you used any of the products mentioned?

Read more »

Hello, gorgeousness! I'm suffering from oily skin. Pretty sure I already let everybody know that I have oily skin since born. It's a struggle sometimes. I mean, wherever I go, in all the pictures I'm in, there's always this familiar, unwanted 'grease' that rests on my cheeks, nose, and forehead. While I'm whining about that, there's always someone that convinces me having oily skin means I will get fewer wrinkles in the future. Well, it doesn't change the fact that having oily skin can be irking on a daily basis.

Fret not, my oily peeps. I've compiled a list of tried and true skincare tips to manage oily skin, all the ingredients to look for when it comes to oily complexion, and more!

Don't over cleanse your face

I used to cleanse my face more than twice a day using an overly stripping facial cleanser. I will get into more of this later. But please, if you think you have to cleanse your face every time it gets overly oily, you're stripping your skin, ma'am, and that's not cute for future you. Just properly cleanse your face twice a day using the #60SecondRule is already good enough. 

Use non-stripping facial cleanser

I had to learn this the hard way. There was a time where my skin is overproducing oil and I'm just a big, walking greasy mess. If you have oily skin, the key is to be gentle. Use a gentle, non-stripping facial cleanser. 

"Wouldn't we have to use a stronger facial cleanser to suck up all the oil and gunk away from our skin?"

Here's the thing, cleansing your skin is good but using a harsh, overly stripping cleanser is definitely not it. Avoid alcohol-heavy cleansers if you can, because it's one of the main causes of stripping or drying resulting in the skin to overproduce oil which is gonna make you even oilier. 

I would recommend the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, Simple Water Boost Micellar Cleansing Facial Gel Wash, and Krave Beauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser. These cleansers are filled with lots of hydrating ingredients, antioxidants, and humectants. Ceramide, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, you name it. It'll very much benefit oily skin.

Opt for rich moisturizer at night

It sounds crazy, I know. I love my Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel moisturizer. Y'all probably rolling your eyes by now and tired of me mentioning the Neutrogena moisturizer. But this is different! I promise.

Have you ever use a rich, hydrating moisturizer at night? I have and I realized that my skin was significantly less oily throughout the day. The moisturizer I used was pretty decent and most importantly, it was able to lock-in moisture at night as well as to make sure I wasn't losing as much water resulting in better, hydrated skin. It was the Some By Mi Miracle Cream!

It's not that rich for some people but it's pretty rich to me. It's rich but it doesn't feel heavy. It's like a somewhere-in-between kind of moisturizer. It has 70% Centella Asiatica extract, niacinamide, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, to name a few. The ingredients in this when I first look through it I'm just like "Yes, yes, yes, yes, give it to me." 

Cleansing oil is not your enemy

How can I forget to mention the elephant in the room? I know. It's the exact opposite of what you would always hear, right? I wear makeup almost every day and for me not to properly dissolve my entire makeup at the end of the day is a nightmare. If you think having oily skin is to use water-based cleansers all the time, wake up! Your micellar cleansing water is not meant to remove makeup, honey. 

My tried and true cleansing oil is definitely from Simple. Of course, me, and all of my drugstore recommendations. It's probably the most unproblematic oil cleanser I've ever used. 

I know it's going to give some people a 'freak out' moment but it will benefit your skin in the long run. The cleansing oil I'm using specifically for my double cleansing routine is so gentle, non-irritating, won't clog your pores, and yes, inexpensive but works so well! Don't get me wrong, I still use micellar cleansing water but only when I have no makeup on and just sunscreen/ cc cream. If you're using pretty heavy makeup on a day to day basis, consider using a cleansing oil.

Oily skin + makeup

Having oily skin but you love to wear makeup? Fear not. I've thought about this as well. First thing first, I would personally recommend to use mattifying and pore filling primer for the most problematic area on the face. Other than those areas, you can use hydrating/dewy primers.

I'm all about creating the right balance when it comes to my makeup. So yes, I double prime. Don't freak out! Primers are not meant to stay on your skin the whole day. Always, always, double cleanse to make sure you're getting all the makeup and dirt out of your skin. 

But yeah, a lot of the time I prefer keeping the center of my face a little matte while leaving my cheeks dewy for that perfect balance. My Mary-Lou Manizer is already good enough to achieve my perfect dewy, balanced look but with the Stila Heaven's Hue Highlighter it brings the whole look to another level!

Do you have oily skin? What are your tried and true tips to manage your skin?

• Sunday, October 18, 2020
• beauty

Oily Skin 101: Managing Oily Skin

Hello, gorgeousness! I'm suffering from oily skin. Pretty sure I already let everybody know that I have oily skin since born. It's a struggle sometimes. I mean, wherever I go, in all the pictures I'm in, there's always this familiar, unwanted 'grease' that rests on my cheeks, nose, and forehead. While I'm whining about that, there's always someone that convinces me having oily skin means I will get fewer wrinkles in the future. Well, it doesn't change the fact that having oily skin can be irking on a daily basis.

Fret not, my oily peeps. I've compiled a list of tried and true skincare tips to manage oily skin, all the ingredients to look for when it comes to oily complexion, and more!

Don't over cleanse your face

I used to cleanse my face more than twice a day using an overly stripping facial cleanser. I will get into more of this later. But please, if you think you have to cleanse your face every time it gets overly oily, you're stripping your skin, ma'am, and that's not cute for future you. Just properly cleanse your face twice a day using the #60SecondRule is already good enough. 

Use non-stripping facial cleanser

I had to learn this the hard way. There was a time where my skin is overproducing oil and I'm just a big, walking greasy mess. If you have oily skin, the key is to be gentle. Use a gentle, non-stripping facial cleanser. 

"Wouldn't we have to use a stronger facial cleanser to suck up all the oil and gunk away from our skin?"

Here's the thing, cleansing your skin is good but using a harsh, overly stripping cleanser is definitely not it. Avoid alcohol-heavy cleansers if you can, because it's one of the main causes of stripping or drying resulting in the skin to overproduce oil which is gonna make you even oilier. 

I would recommend the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, Simple Water Boost Micellar Cleansing Facial Gel Wash, and Krave Beauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser. These cleansers are filled with lots of hydrating ingredients, antioxidants, and humectants. Ceramide, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, you name it. It'll very much benefit oily skin.

Opt for rich moisturizer at night

It sounds crazy, I know. I love my Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel moisturizer. Y'all probably rolling your eyes by now and tired of me mentioning the Neutrogena moisturizer. But this is different! I promise.

Have you ever use a rich, hydrating moisturizer at night? I have and I realized that my skin was significantly less oily throughout the day. The moisturizer I used was pretty decent and most importantly, it was able to lock-in moisture at night as well as to make sure I wasn't losing as much water resulting in better, hydrated skin. It was the Some By Mi Miracle Cream!

It's not that rich for some people but it's pretty rich to me. It's rich but it doesn't feel heavy. It's like a somewhere-in-between kind of moisturizer. It has 70% Centella Asiatica extract, niacinamide, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, to name a few. The ingredients in this when I first look through it I'm just like "Yes, yes, yes, yes, give it to me." 

Cleansing oil is not your enemy

How can I forget to mention the elephant in the room? I know. It's the exact opposite of what you would always hear, right? I wear makeup almost every day and for me not to properly dissolve my entire makeup at the end of the day is a nightmare. If you think having oily skin is to use water-based cleansers all the time, wake up! Your micellar cleansing water is not meant to remove makeup, honey. 

My tried and true cleansing oil is definitely from Simple. Of course, me, and all of my drugstore recommendations. It's probably the most unproblematic oil cleanser I've ever used. 

I know it's going to give some people a 'freak out' moment but it will benefit your skin in the long run. The cleansing oil I'm using specifically for my double cleansing routine is so gentle, non-irritating, won't clog your pores, and yes, inexpensive but works so well! Don't get me wrong, I still use micellar cleansing water but only when I have no makeup on and just sunscreen/ cc cream. If you're using pretty heavy makeup on a day to day basis, consider using a cleansing oil.

Oily skin + makeup

Having oily skin but you love to wear makeup? Fear not. I've thought about this as well. First thing first, I would personally recommend to use mattifying and pore filling primer for the most problematic area on the face. Other than those areas, you can use hydrating/dewy primers.

I'm all about creating the right balance when it comes to my makeup. So yes, I double prime. Don't freak out! Primers are not meant to stay on your skin the whole day. Always, always, double cleanse to make sure you're getting all the makeup and dirt out of your skin. 

But yeah, a lot of the time I prefer keeping the center of my face a little matte while leaving my cheeks dewy for that perfect balance. My Mary-Lou Manizer is already good enough to achieve my perfect dewy, balanced look but with the Stila Heaven's Hue Highlighter it brings the whole look to another level!

Do you have oily skin? What are your tried and true tips to manage your skin?

Read more »

Hello, gorgeousness! Happy October! Time flies by so fast and we are already 4 days into October but mentally I'm still processing March. I couldn't fathom that some of y'all really don't get out of the house much and been quarantining since March/ April. Is your mental health okay? Do you get support for your overall wellbeing? Just keeping you guys in check. I hope everyone is doing alright, especially in my own country, Malaysia. It's been a rough few days for us. The number of cases is suddenly pretty concerning so I hope we could just take all the safety precautions for ourselves and stay safe.

Anyway, back to why you're here. Yes, I did the COVID-19 nasal swab test a few days back. If you're following me on my socials, you would know. But yeah, I survived the nasal swab test *crying inside*

I believe you may have heard about the nasal swab test, which would determine if you might have been infected with the novel coronavirus. That being said, my workplace teamed up with the medical professionals and announced they would offer nasal swab testing for the staff and we're all encouraged to do it, which I clearly wasn't ready for. However, I'm a responsible human being and as a member of the public, I think it's something that I need to do regardless since I'm working as an essential services provider. So yeah.

I didn't get any pictures or proof of me being tested because the testing facility was a tad bit strict and we're all advised to keep our phones away while testing, no camera bla bla bla. I'm obeying the medical professionals here okay.

After lining up outside the testing facility for about 5 minutes, I then entered and have my name and IC number signed up. I was given like a transparent biohazard pouch which will hold my samples later on and I was told to wait until the doctor calls my name and do the test on me. After a minute or so, I heard my name being shouted and I was immediately freaking out and my hands are all shaking not gonna lie I was shit scared but of course I was playing it cool.

But you guys, it turned out slightly awful for me. Legit. I feel like someone was itching the back of my eye socket and it goes down to my belly button. Just for the record, the nasal cavity still feels off even after a few hours. The process, although it gives me a bunch of anxiety, was otherwise less painful. It's still painful and uncomfortable though like your eyes got watery and all but it's somewhat bearable.

All in all, it's still one of the most uncomfortable things I'll ever experience although the test took me less than 10 minutes. It's my unsettling 10 minutes that I couldn't get back for me.

Anyway, for now, my friends and I — none of us reported having any of the common symptoms — we will have to wait and see if our results are added to the confirmed COVID-19 cases in Lahad Datu, which is not something we would want, or if they will simply just tick up the test rate and reopening businesses and push the region one step closer to begin again.

Hopefully, we'll be fine! Please stay safe. If you cannot for the life of you to avoid mass gatherings, please follow the SOP. Put your mask on, always carry hand sanitizers with you, practice social distancing. If any of you thought you should get tested, you should just go for it. Yeah, it's uncomfortable I don't ever want to put myself in that situation again but it's quick and it's for everyone's safety. One can be infected and be asymptomatic. Just saying. 

Stay safe and be seeing you xx

• Sunday, October 04, 2020
• personal

Tea Time Vol. 6 | My COVID-19 Nasal Swab Test Experience

Hello, gorgeousness! Happy October! Time flies by so fast and we are already 4 days into October but mentally I'm still processing March. I couldn't fathom that some of y'all really don't get out of the house much and been quarantining since March/ April. Is your mental health okay? Do you get support for your overall wellbeing? Just keeping you guys in check. I hope everyone is doing alright, especially in my own country, Malaysia. It's been a rough few days for us. The number of cases is suddenly pretty concerning so I hope we could just take all the safety precautions for ourselves and stay safe.

Anyway, back to why you're here. Yes, I did the COVID-19 nasal swab test a few days back. If you're following me on my socials, you would know. But yeah, I survived the nasal swab test *crying inside*

I believe you may have heard about the nasal swab test, which would determine if you might have been infected with the novel coronavirus. That being said, my workplace teamed up with the medical professionals and announced they would offer nasal swab testing for the staff and we're all encouraged to do it, which I clearly wasn't ready for. However, I'm a responsible human being and as a member of the public, I think it's something that I need to do regardless since I'm working as an essential services provider. So yeah.

I didn't get any pictures or proof of me being tested because the testing facility was a tad bit strict and we're all advised to keep our phones away while testing, no camera bla bla bla. I'm obeying the medical professionals here okay.

After lining up outside the testing facility for about 5 minutes, I then entered and have my name and IC number signed up. I was given like a transparent biohazard pouch which will hold my samples later on and I was told to wait until the doctor calls my name and do the test on me. After a minute or so, I heard my name being shouted and I was immediately freaking out and my hands are all shaking not gonna lie I was shit scared but of course I was playing it cool.

But you guys, it turned out slightly awful for me. Legit. I feel like someone was itching the back of my eye socket and it goes down to my belly button. Just for the record, the nasal cavity still feels off even after a few hours. The process, although it gives me a bunch of anxiety, was otherwise less painful. It's still painful and uncomfortable though like your eyes got watery and all but it's somewhat bearable.

All in all, it's still one of the most uncomfortable things I'll ever experience although the test took me less than 10 minutes. It's my unsettling 10 minutes that I couldn't get back for me.

Anyway, for now, my friends and I — none of us reported having any of the common symptoms — we will have to wait and see if our results are added to the confirmed COVID-19 cases in Lahad Datu, which is not something we would want, or if they will simply just tick up the test rate and reopening businesses and push the region one step closer to begin again.

Hopefully, we'll be fine! Please stay safe. If you cannot for the life of you to avoid mass gatherings, please follow the SOP. Put your mask on, always carry hand sanitizers with you, practice social distancing. If any of you thought you should get tested, you should just go for it. Yeah, it's uncomfortable I don't ever want to put myself in that situation again but it's quick and it's for everyone's safety. One can be infected and be asymptomatic. Just saying. 

Stay safe and be seeing you xx

Read more »