This may sound odd but whenever I’m under tremendous stress (an extreme one), I tend to go for something that involves pain. I have thought of tattoo before many years ago until I found out that not all people are suitable to have tattoo on and I fall into that category. I was once told to not have tattoo by someone powerful so tattoo is out of the question. Piercing however is a different story. I kinda was obsessed with body piercing (not that I have a lot). It was the suffering pain that make whatever sour things in life much more bearable.

As a norm in my life, once again I felt into a loop hole. Immediately I thought of something painful. Don’t worry. This time I thought of trying out Brazilian Wax . I heard it’s one painful experience for first timer and usually when I’m under this type of stress, pain is something I’m not afraid of. Not even a bit. I’m as brave as king kong! Right before I went for the waxing treatment, Arpita blogged about Brazilian IPL at Bubble Gum Wax and that they are currently offering first time trial price of RM96. I dragged my friend along and off we go!

There are two Bubble Gum Wax branch in total. One in Plaza Damas and one in Casa Tropicana. Casa Tropicana was newly opened just five months ago so I opted for that branch as my first time. The location is very unique. It’s at a condominium so don’t look for shop lots etc. Once you turn into the condominium unit, there are ample parking space available and Bubble Gum Wax is located at the first floor. They are facing the main road so you won’t miss it. The best part? No parking fee

The staircase to first floor is located at the middle. Take the stairs up, turn back to the front and you will see the store front.

The decor is simple and soothing on the eyes. It’s not the scary white or black salon. It’s very trendy I would say. It’s the kind of salon you walk in and feel right. You know me. I like simplicity.

My advise is to make an appointment prior heading to the salon, just in case all their therapist are fully occupied. I actually made an enquiry on Bubble Gum Wax Facebook page, make an appointment on Facebook there and then and Casa Tropicana branch called the next day to reconfirm the appointment. All in one, it’s one good customer service and I appreciate that. The worse I could imagine is the social media handler told me to call up Casa Tropicana to make appointment myself but they didn’t. It was a quick and easy process through Facebook

Once I was there, I make a few quick enquiry to decide if I wanted to carry on with Brazilian IPL or the conventional Brazilian Wax. So did my friend. Then we filled up a form and I was the first to go.

I was told to make a visit to the washroom if I needed to. I was so nervous and yes you bet I needed to pee before the treatment . Then I was directed to one of the treatment room. Mind you there are no ceiling covering the top of the room so whatever noise you make in the room will be heard by EVERYONE in the salon. So yeah. Just so you wanna know hehe.

I was told to remove my underwear and I was given a wet wipe to clean myself up. My friend funnily told me after the treatment that she did not know what to do with the wet wipes that she didn’t use it and the therapist did it for her lol. Since I wore a polo dress, it was quite easy for me. I don’t feel as naked as it was suppose to be.

These are the utensils for waxing. Since I opted for Brazilian IPL, I didn’t need to use all this.

This machine however I need. This is the IPL machine for my Brazilian. There is only one machine in the salon so only one of us could carry on with the treatment at one go.

Okay. This is where the photo stops . I must admit it was quite embarrassing for the first 10 minutes but I keep assuring myself it’s the same feeling when I go for gynae. You spread wide open at the gynae but you don’t spread eagle wide at Bubble Gum Wax. The therapist bend both my knee, lying them flat on the side with both foot touching. Just like one of the seating position at yoga. That’s the best description I can think of lol. The therapist will then put some baby powder on the treatment area and shave everything off. Why shave? That is because I went for the IPL, not waxing. I was told that the new hair growth will drop after the treatment so I was really intrigued to know if it was true. After every hair was fully shaved off, the therapist then went to the next room to retrieve a bowl of cooling gel for the treatment. She will then apply a fairly thick layer of cooling gel on a small section of the area and use the IPL machine. It wasn’t painful on some area but some area I felt a very sharp burning hot electric shock. It was slightly painful on some part especially on boney part.

If you decided to go for any brazilian treatment, you will have to bear in mind that brazilian means ALL OFF; from the front to the back. You will be asked to turn around to get the back part done as well. After 30-40 minutes, the therapist will wipe you clean like a baby and apply cooling cream all over the treatment area. So ‘down there’ will feel minty cooling the whole day haha.

The whole experience was eye opening and it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. Perhaps due to the fact that I didn’t go for the wax so it was bearable.

I had mine done last Tuesday, exactly a week by now. I didn’t notice any hair drop but I do notice that the hair growth was slower. Just like shaving, it was slightly itchy when the hair starts to grow out. And just like shaving as well (well, it was shave anyhow), I do experience rashes when the hair starts to grow out. With my skin condition I think it will be best for me to go for waxing next time instead.

Overall it was one exciting eye-opening experience for me. I finally did it! I overcome my fear of being naked in front of others and “flashing” to others haha. Oh boy. Too much info

Added review on 26th April 2015

When I went for my morning bath this morning, I notice a lot of hair fallout on my underwear. I panicked a little wondering what happened before remembering that the staff at Bubble Gum Wax did told me that new hair growth will fall off by itself. The problem is I did not know when. I was expecting the fall out to happen soon so I wasn’t expecting it to happen two weeks after the first IPL treatment. I went for another bath again in the afternoon and guess what? More fall out and this time I’m half hairless than before. Amazing. But I need to return to the salon mid of May for them to determine if IPL works for me or not. If they see that the result is not so promising for me, I would not be advised to sign up for IPL. We shall see what Bubble Gum Wax have to say, eh?

Have anyone of you tried Brazilian Waxing or IPL? Would you prefer waxing over IPL?

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored review. I paid for the treatment on my own.

The post Trying out Brazilian IPL for the first time at Bubble Gum Wax Casa Tropicana appeared first on Street Love. by Fiona

Rediscover the happiness that comes from taking care of your body. It is a treat to have an absolute well-being. Escape to a place where you can relax and recharge your body and mind. Wake up your five senses and feel good. A treatment at Clarins Skin Spa not only offers you the chance to lie back and enjoy a completely luxurious experience, it also delivers exactly what it promises and much more.

Looked familiar? I’m back to Clarins Skin Spa Pavilion for another experience and this time I’m invited to try Clarins’ New Tri-Active Body Treatment.

The treatment was suppose to take place last month but my menstrual went haywire and let’s just say I wasn’t in the right condition to proceed on my appointment day. Add in the busy schedule lately thus the delay for the treatment. Sok Hung who’s my Beautician previously (read here for facial review) has been following up closely with me to make sure I had the booking according to my preferred day and time. She also happened to be my Beautician this time round and I was happy with the arrangement. Let me just tell you Sok Hung is very friendly, funny and her skills is marvelous.

Here is some info on Clarins Tri-Active Body Treatment.

The New Tri-Active Body Treatments provides new, high-performing CLARINSPRO formulas specially made to suit every woman’s body needs.  The New CLARINSPRO Body Formulas consists of 8 products which include exfoliators, body wraps, masks and supplements created by Clarins Laboratories for exclusive use in treatment rooms only.

The introduction of this fantastic range of new Tri-Active body treatments concentrate on the original Clarins philosophy of using 100% natural, plant-based ingredients of the highest quality, combined with the unique Clarins hands-on massage method.  The simple philosophy behind this approach is that no piece of equipment or machinery could ever be as sensitive or as effective as the human hand in responding to the needs of the skin.

CLARINSPRO formulas contain a subtle alchemy between precious plant extracts and sublime textures that go deep into the skin under the expert and measured massage movements of the Beauty Therapist.  Clarins researchers selected the highest performing ingredients to guarantee immediate results on the skin, the silhouette and body’s curves.  Each treatment is designed to boost circulation and eliminate toxins, so improving the appearance of the skin. The massage is also deeply relaxing, thereby benefiting mind and body, in keeping with Clarins’ holistic approach to beauty.

When I reached Sok Hung had just finished a facial session with another customer. I saw the lady walked out with a brighter face! This reminds me of the previous facial session I had with Sok Hung. I too walked out with a brighter face. Then this customer wanted to buy some products so I made myself comfy at the waiting area while waiting for Sok Hung to come back. I like the view from where I was sitting.

Right next to my left is a tester stand which is full with Clarins products which customer could play around try out while waiting.

There are also a line up of best buy set which is available to purchase. So far Clarins offer the best value for money best buy set. I know I’m already planning my haul for September as it’s my birthday month! That means double points for the whole month!

Sok Hung came back not long later apologizing for making me wait which I’m okay with it. I don’t mind the wait because I was a bit nervous with the treatment. I heard a few version of stories on how the treatment is going to be. Some said I’m gonna be nude, some said not really and some said I’m going to be nude but covered while the Beautician will reveal part by part on where she’s massaging. So these stories had been playing in my mind for a few days now. Which is true? You gotta find out from me then. I hold the secret to your curiosity haha! 

I was given a towel, a shower cap and a disposable “thong” underwear to change into after shower. Although I showered before I leave my house but I feel more comfy if I took another shower. Besides I wanted to experience the whole journey.

And I was given a indoor slipper too. Cute.

Remember I said in my previous facial treatment review that there’s a drawer which I didn’t explore? This time out of curiosity I opened it and I found the comb! Not only that I found a contact lens case and solution for those that wear  contact lens. How thoughtful

Did you know that Parkson Pavilion is the first Clarins Counter Skin Spa that offer Body Treatment? Some of the counters do offer facial treatment but not body treatment as you need a shower room. With limited space at the counter it’s impossible to have one. There are 2 treatment rooms at Parkson Pavilion Skin Spa but only one has the shower room.  

Let’s take a tour of the shower room.
I saw two shower head available. One on top of the ceiling which I called the “Rain Shower” and another one which is the “Wall Mounted Shower Arm”.

I went with the wall-mounted shower arm of course. It’s good enough for me.

Next time I’ll try the Rain Shower! If I had more time of course

Clarins Tonic and Relax Bath Shower Concentrate is provided in the shower room. You can choose which one to use accordingly to your preference. I’m a fan of Tonic Bath & Shower Concentrate personally.

There are three types of personalized Tri-Active Body Treatments you can choose from which includes Hydrating, Contouring or Firming. Now Clarins is introducing a whole new range of products comprising 8 specific CLARINSPRO Formula to suit every woman’s concerns:

New! Exfoliators
Preparatory Exfoliating Body Lotion
Exfoliating Body Cream

Body Wraps
Plant-Based Mud Wrap

New! Body Supplements
Hydrating Body Supplement
Firming Body Supplement
Contouring Body Supplement

New! Masks
Body Nourishing Balm-Mask
Body Contouring Gel-Mask
Body Firming Cream-Mask

The highly concentrated key ingredients in the Body Supplements work to boost results. These unique formulas target specific needs whichare mixed with the primary product for a complete, made-to-measure treatment.  Not only that. To reinforce beauty benefits, three Intensive Care Masks (gel, balm or cream) can be applied to the specific areas on the body that need targeted care.

The effectiveness of CLARINSPRO products is optimized by totally manual massage movements. Each gesture is carried out with extreme precision: the weight of the hand on the skin, the rhythm and the direction of the movements are all fundamentally important.

An innovative 3-step process with proven results

1. Preparation and skin exfoliation
   Your skin will better absorb the products applied afterwards
2. Absorption of key ingredients
   Your skin absorbs the best that plants have to offer
3. Optimized results and targeted action
   Reveal the beauty of your body’s silhouette

My Experience
It is true that you’ll be nude but not completely. You’d still have your disposable “thong” underwear on. I wrapped myself in the towel which was given earlier after shower and climbed up the treatment table. Once the Beautician covered me up with several towel I was told to remove the wet towel earlier. I was given a choice of which body treatment I’d want to try and I choose Firming. The treatment started just like the facial one. Beautician will prepare your skin with Clarins Eau Dynamisante with disposable mitten. She will lift the towel on one side revealing the hand and leg without revealing your private areas, tummy and then the back. That is also the same process when the Beautician massages. Prior before treatment I told Sok Hung that I’m afraid of tickling. So you can guess now that certain area I’m laughing and laughing. Sorry can’t help it. The whole massage technic is specially created to enhance the efficiency of the product applied. Not too bad for someone who’s afraid of tickling. Sok Hung’s technic and her hand’s warmth further enhance the treatment in my personal opinion. Her strength is just nice and not painful at all. After every part that she massages I was wrapped in cling wrap for the mask.

The best thing about the body treatment is that you paid to get a whole body treatment. I was asked to turn around and Sok Hung repeated the same process again for the back of my leg, back and hands.

After the whole treatment ended I changed back into my clothes and went out for a cup of freshly brewed tea. What a wonderful spa treatment!

Here’s the price list for your reference.

NEW TRI-ACTIVE BODY TREATMENTS

The Sculptor – RM288 (60 minutes)
An effective slimming treatment to make you feel good about your body. After exfoliation, your skin is firmer and soften and ready to benefit from the lipid-releasing ability of blue button flower combined with specific, contouring massage movements which alternatve between draining and targeted pressure to break stubborn fats and curves.
“Must-have” product for home”: Body Shaping Cream & High Definition Body Lift

The Moisture Quencher – RM288 (60 minutes)
For skin which is extremely thirsty.  Like a wave of moisture, this expert treatment, based on shea butter, promotes unequalled comfort, suppleness and head-to-toe smoother skin.
“Must-have” product for home: Moisture-Rich Body Lotion

The Firming Age Corrector – RM288 (60 minutes)
A fountain of youth for the body.  This complete age-control treatment works on skin density and tone but also on its elasticity thanks to the power of organic lemon thyme. Its firming and revitalizing properties help you regain a firmer body, better toned, more supple skin and a more youthful appearance.
“Must-have” product for home: Body firming Cream

Skin Spa Pavilion KL: 03-2142 3881
Skin Spa 1Utama: 03-7728 7266
Skin Spa The Curve: 03-7728 9881
Skin Spa KLCC: 03-2382 6800
Skin Spa Bangsar Shopping Centre: 03-2282 4881
Skin Spa The Spring: 082-255 890

Disclaimer: Body treatment courtesy of Clarins Malaysia.
Thank you Clarins Malaysia for giving me the opportunity to experience the Tri-Active Body Treatment at Parkson Pavilion Skin Spa.

The post Beautiful Body with the New Clarins Tri-Active Body Treatment appeared first on Street Love. by Fiona