After the success of Elixir Ultime, Kérastase launches Kérastase Grands Crus Oils a luxe hair beautifying oils. 'Grand Crus' refers to the best wines and champagnes in France made from the highest quality grapes. In terms on these luxe oils, Grand Crus means when the best elements (water, earth and air) creates extraordinary products because their situation is Supreme and Unique. The Grand Crus range is a fusion of the award-winning Elixir Ultime Oleo-Complexe and more beautifying extracts. Each formula is tailor made to specific hair needs, with the rich scents of each variant reminiscent of luxurious French perfumes.

Kérastase Malaysia Team

I just got back from an evening of getting to know the Kérastase Grand Crus range and I believe it could be a start of an exciting friendship with the oils. *giggles* Yes yes, I'm hooked on oils for hair since I was sent the Kérastase Elixir Ultime LE some time mid year (review here). I notice I complain about frizzy hair less now. Which is a good thing, pity some ears who have had to listen to my whining all these years.

I was treated to a wonderful evening by the Kérastase team. The best part was that I got try out one of the oils there after a mini hair styling sesh. The stylist from Peekaboo Hair Salon who worked on my hair used the pink coloured one which reminded me of liquid pink diamond. It's the Rose Millenaire + Oleo Complexe. Although it's meant for fine hair, and my hair is far from being fine, the reason the stylist used this one on my hair for the evening was because he wanted to get the natural look and not want to weigh the hair down too much. But he said my hair is more suited to use either one of the other two either for colour treated hair of damaged hair, gosh I sure it hope it means frizzy. For a touch of glam, I got to choose my hair accessory and I opted for a head band with a black flower. Not that it had anything to do with the use of the oils though. *laughs*

And so the Elixir Ultime family grows as of yesterday evening with three new additions. They look like liquid jewels in a bottles don't you think. Kérastase Elixir Ultime Les Grands Crus fragrant hair oils are formulated with the most presciouc extracts. It has the benefits of a universal oil by by blending the Oléo Complese Technology found in the original Elixir Ultime meant for all hair types which nourishes, deep conditions and gives shine to hair, whilst also being tailored to specific hair types. 

ROSE MILLÉNAIRE + OLÉO COMPLEXE

Scent: Infused with a delicate floral scent with hints of fragrant freshness
For Fine & Sensitised Hair

• A unique rose famed for its exceptional restorative and regenerative powers.
• Rich in Vitamin E and protects the hair from UV radicals.
• Light in texture.
• Floral & fruity scent.

RESULT: Fine hair feels regenerated, nourished and soft.


MORINGA IMMORTEL + OLÉO COMPLEXE
Scent: Evokes a woody oriental fragrance blended with sharp notes of citrus
For Damaged Hair

• Enriched with nutrients from the renowned Moringa Tree.
• Famed for its resilience and ability to concentrate the best ingredients in the most challenging climatic conditions.
• Rich in Vitamins A & C with intense concentrations of calcium, iron and magnesium.
• Flowery and warmly scented.

RESULT: Damaged hair instantly feels replenished and nourished


IMPÉRIAL TEA + OLÉO COMPLEXE
Scent: Created with a soft floral scent, delicately balanced with invigorating fruity notes
For Colour Treated Hair

• The rarest of its kind, this rare tea is enriched with the purest antioxidants nature can offer.
• Free radicals have a damaging effect on the hair fibre and can accelerate ageing. By harnessing the powerful anti-oxidants, flavonoids and epigallocatechins hair is protected against these destructive forces.
• White tea helps the hair remain radiant and glossy.
• Light, floral and freshly scented.

RESULT: Coloured treated hair is protected, reflecting light and radiance.

I will be reviewing the Kérastase Elixir Ultime "Grands Crus" oils in due time. It's a toss-up between the one for damaged hair or colour treated hair first.

The evening proceeded with dinner in a beautiful setting. Such a wonderful way to launch these luxe air oils. I love the the way they did they flower arrangement which of course complemented the floral ingredients used in the hair oils.

Seared Port Lincoln Hiramasa Kingfish, Pickled Melon, Gherkins, Poached Quail Eggs and Mustard

Supreme Chicken Essence with Dried Scallop Ravioli 

Pan-Seared Herb Crusted Cod Fillet, Mascarpone and Risotto, Caviar and Chive Sauce 

Warm Chocolate Toffee Lava Cake, Light Hazelnut Custard

I had such a lovely evening! A huge thank you to Kérastase Malaysia for having me over for the launch! :)

Outfit Quickie

The dresscode for the evening was cocktail glamour. Since I had to rush from work and got there just in time, courtesy of road closures and terrible traffic, I decided in the morning to wear trousers. I got those from H&M, which was a real steal. Mesh top with lace edge from Topshop, embellished bib from Diva (one of my faves) and flower head band courtesy of Kérastase Malaysia. :) Who said trousers can't be glamorous ayh. ;)

The Kérastase Elixir Ultime quartet retails at RM138 each for 125ml. The Elixir Ultime “Grands Crus” Oils will be available nationwide at Kérastase salons from November 2012. For stockiest enquiries, kindly call our customer hotline 03-77271231 or visit www.kerastase.my for your nearest Kerastase Salon

Sorry for the delay guys. Before I make the announcement, a huge thank you to everyone who has taken part in the series of giveaways throughout September. I should say that it is the end of the giveaways but apparently there's more to come. :)

But for now, lets get on with the Winner Announcement for Chocolate Cats Final Giveaway. The winner for Chocolate Cats Final Giveaway: 2 Day 1 Night Stay @ Prince Hotel & Residence KL is... *drum roll*

Doroshi

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Doroshi please get back to me with your email and contact details within the next 48 hours okay. :) Remember though there's another giveaway on the way in the next few days so be sure to check back. Have a good weeks guys! :)

A huge thank you again to Prince Hotel & Residence KL for sponsoring this final giveaway! 

Anna Sui is releasing some new products this October, the Anna Sui New Base Makeup Collection. They have two new heroes on board - Moisturising Foundation Primer and Loose Face Powder.

The Moisturising Foundation Primer evens out skin surface for a smooth foundation application with ultra moisturising, softness and radiance effect.  It also has a soft focus effect that camouflages pores and leaves a glowing finish. It has Oil Absorbing powder that helps with oil control and makes foundation long wearing. This comes in 1 shade. Retails at RM108 for 30ml.

The Loose Face Powder has been the classic star product for Anna Sui since 1998. Its new improved formula provides doubling soft focus effect with well moisturised finish. It gives a brightening effect and enhances radiance. Sebum Absorbing Powder absorbs excess oil, keeps shine and discoloration at bay. This comes in 4 shades. Retails at RM160 for 16g.

October also sees an Anna Sui Limited Makeup Kit. It consists of Liquid Eye Colour G which gives you glittering sparkling eyes, Lip Gloss B for plump shiny translucent lips and Cheek Colour A that has an oil-resistant formula that helps the colour remain true. The three piece comes in  super cute red pouch with heart prints. This retails at RM165.

Next one coming this month is a Limited Nail Colour Kit. It has a Nail Colour N, Nail Oil Treatment and Nail Colour Remover. This retails at RM149

You can get theses new releases at all Anna Sui Cosmetics counters starting October 2012.

Remember back in April I went on and on about how Crocs has managed to redesign their footwear from "Err.. I'll never be caught dead in that" to "Hey that's cute!". Check out the Spring/Summer 2012 post I did here and the review I did on the Carliana Peep Toe Ombre here which I thought was really pretty. So Crocs recently launched their Fall/Holiday 2012 Collection and also introduced their New Crocs New You Campaign Fall/Holiday Campaign which includes a contest where you can stand a chance to win a 3-day 2-night luxury accomodation at The Datai Langkawi Hotel, Pulau Langkawi. There are also 10 consolation prizes to be given away for 10 consecutive weeks. Wasn't that a mouthful. Xandria Ooi, well-known fashion icon was also around to share some styling tips.

Let me introduce the new collection first before going on to the contest just because it makes more sense that way. The latest collection is all about luxurious leather and canvas sneakers. Crocs signature light-weight comfort remains thanks to the Crosslite material sole. It's also lightweight, non-marking and odor-resistant footwear that fits well and lasts long. The price range is between RM229-RM269 for the normal ones, a bit more pricey for the boots selection.

Here's what it is though, I know the season is changing so the colour choice will naturally move into the darker range. However I feel that the designs have gone back to the very basics, a lot more subdued unlike the funky designs for the Spring/Summer collection. I'm finding it a tad unexciting. But that's just me though, I'm all into the funky statement style. I suppose the basic type would be more easier to match with outfits. Might yet find a pair that I fancy.

Contest time. More like lucky draw time. The Fall/Holiday campaign is where you can discover your individual fashion identity while incorporating Crocs new collection into it. The campaign is divided into two parts - "Your Path,Your Style" and "Reveal You Fashion ID". To understand what I'm going on about log on to www.newcrocsnewyou.com.

Your Path, Your Style is where you have some fun with an interactive video. You take a journey with Crocs and match your personal style with a pair of Crocs shoes. You could be going to a park, off for coffee, kicking back with your mates, just pick your fave pair and you are on your way. After you share your journey with friends and family on your fave social website, you will then be automatically entered into a lucky draw to win great prizes. When you're done with that you will be given a coupon to redeem at a Crocs store!

Reveal Your Fashion ID is where you reveal you personal style with fashion icon Xandria Ooi. Simply answer a series of questions and your fashion identity will be revealed. Share your results with on your fave networking site so that your mates can join in on the fun as well.

The contest/lucky is already up and running so be sure to check it out at www.newcrocsnewyou.com. For more info log on to www.crocs.com.my.

I just recently heard about it and I think it's fantastic. It's about time we recognise Women in Science especially since it's a male dominated field. After hearing what some of these women have achieved and plan to contribute to their specific fields I'm inspired to do so many things. I just have to get my head around a few things first. 

L'Oréal Malaysia recently rewarded 3 young female researchers for the excellence and feasibility of their scientific project for the L'Oréal Malaysia For Women in Science 2012 program.

Every year, L'Oréal and UNESCO renew their joint commitment to promoting scientific careers and identifying outstanding women scientists. Even though women increasingly attain the highest, academic levels, they are still under-represented at the top levels of scientific research. For the past 7 years, the L'Oréal For Women in Science program has given recognition to young women researchers, providing visibility and encouragement for the exceptional quality of their work which they will pursue in Malaysia. The awards are presented in Life Science and Material Science in alternating years.

L'Oréal Malaysia For Women in Science Fellowships is the extension to the international L'Oréal UNESCO awards, to provide financial assistance of RM20,000 each to 3 young female researchers to pursue their scientific project in Malaysia. The program was developed to recognise and support promising young Malaysia women researchers in their scientific research and highlight their significance in the field of science which would then encourage a new generation of women leaders. This programme also intends to position these women as significant contributors to the development of sciences that will aptly help Malaysia progress towards a developed country.

The three National Fellows 2012 are Assoc. Prof Dr Wan Azlina Wan Abdul Karim Ghani, Dr Firdaus Mukhtar and Dr Hakimah Osman.

Assoc. Prof Dr Wan Azlina Wan Abdul Karim Ghani, Lecturer, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) - The winning project is about the development  of the hybrid material called hydrogel derived biochar composite (HBC) for greenhouse gascous (CO2) capture. This HBC  will be synthesise from a special formulation of hydrogel and biochar materials. The captured CO2 theoretically will reform into solid (sodium carbonate) which may then further develop as fertilizer or as construction materials. This research will reduce then greenhouse gas emissions and hence mitigate the climate change.

Dr Firdaus Mukhtar, Senior Lecturer DS51/Consultant Clinical Psychologist Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) - The proposed project is about psychoimmunology study. A study on the interaction of stress onto immune system reponse. The objective is to investigate the effect of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) for women patients with anxiety disorders (panic attack, phobia) on their immunological and psychological parameters.

Dr Hakimah Osman, Deputy Dean of Academic Management Division and Senior Lecturer for School of Materials Engineering Universiti Malaysia Perlis (Unimap) - To develop large-scale alternative (domestic) natural latex production from Tapioca or Cassava (Manihot esculenta). This research study will not only resolve problems on protein allergy in NRL and shortage of NRL supply, but there would be opportunity  to incorporate the production of tapioca's  latex into integrated, zero waster biorefinery systems.

L’Oréal-UNESCO  For Women in Science Program

Launched in Paris in 1998 by L’ORÉAL and UNESCO, the ‘For Women in Science’ Award was the first international award devoted to women in science. But today after 14 years celebration, it has  extended to a broad dimension with international focus on scientific vocations and dedicated to recognizing the accomplishments of female researchers from every continent.

1)      5 International Awards – Created in 1998, the L’Oréal -UNESCO Awards have been presented every year to five women, one from each region (Africa and the Arab States, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, North America) in recognition of their contribution to the advancement of science. The Awards are presented in Life Sciences and Physical Science in alternating years.

2)      1 International Special Fellowship...in the footsteps of Marie Curie’. Created in 2011, the Special Fellowship is awarded annually to a former International Fellow who, since receiving her fellowship 10 years ago, has demonstrated excellence and determination in the pursuit of her career in research.

3)      15 International Fellowships – The  UNESCO -L’Oréal  International Fellowship program was created in 2000 to encourage promising women who are working in the life sciences at the doctoral and postdoctoral level.  Fifteen International Fellows, three from each UNESCO region are chosen to continue their research in prestigious institutions outside their home country.

4)      20 Regional and 180 National Fellowships – In response to local needs, the L’Oréal –UNESCO For Women in Science program also provides fellowship to promising young women researchers in various branches of science at national and regional levels. Two Regional Fellowship programs have been developed in Sub-Saharan Africa and in the Arab States, while National Fellowship programs are now in place in 47 countries.

L'Oréal Young Scientist Carnival

This program is launched in 2012 as a platform to encourage and nurture young students to develop their interest and career in Science. It is a science innovation and invention competition for all Form 4 students of High Performance Schools/Cluster and the projects can be presented individually or in Groups of 5.

The National Fellows will provide mentoring to the students in preparation for the competition. This is organised with Universiti Putra Malaysia and in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (Management Division of High Performance Schools/Cluster) and the Education Department of Selangor. The final competition will beheld on the 20th September at UPM.

For more details go to www.loreal.com.my and www.upm.edu.my.

*Note: Photos courtesy of L'Oréal Malaysia.

Lets talk hair removal. Veet® has been around for ages and is currently widely used by women the world over. It's a great alternative to waxing salons especially when time is a huge issue for you ladies. Recently they developed a unique KeraDerm™ formulation that effectively removes short hair. KeraDerm™ formulation helps open the top of the hair follicle unlike shaving which removes hair at the surface and leave prickly bits.

The three new formulation products boasts to work on hair as short as 1.5mm. Products range from new supreme wax strips to new cream formulas. Thanuja Ananthan, Megan Tan and Diana Danielle were at the launch to give their testimonials after trying out Veet's new products.

Veet® Suprem' Essence EasyGrip™ Ready To Use Wax Strips with velvet rose fragrance & essence oils is made with a specifically developed grip tab for better holding position and angle to grab the hairs. The best bit about it is that it grabs hair as short as 2mm from the roots and leaves your skin smooth for up to 4 weeks. It is clinically proven that it will regrow fewer, finer and softer. 

I tried this one at the launch. No I didn't get waxed in public, I just tried it on a small area on my wrist. It wasn't my first time trying out waxing. Actually waxing is one of the first methods I tried for hair removal ages ago. Never really stuck to it though, I found it to be a tad time consuming. If you haven't tried waxing, it's not painful. Seriously.

The Hair Removal Cream with Lotus Milk and Jasmine Fragrance works in just 3 minutes. This formula is designed to work close to the root of the hair. Also effective on very short hair. The box says that your hair can take noticeably longer to grow back. This one is specially designed for Normal Skin.

I tried this one as well. Also another of Veet's products that I have previously tried but that was the old formulation. I tried this on my hairless leg at that point of time as I had already gotten rid of it the day before. So I didn't exactly see any hair melting away but what I can tell you is that this formula is gentle and I did not experience any side effects.

The next one that I was told is a must try is the In-Shower Hair Removal Cream with Lotus Milk and Jasmine Fragrance. This one also works effectively on very short hair without cutting it. The unique thing about this product is that it's water resistant. So all you have to do is apply for example on your legs, step into the shower, the cream stays on, a few minutes later use the soft sponge it comes with to gently wash it off. This one sounds very convenient!

These new products from Veet® are available at all major pharmacies and supermarkets.

The time has finally arrived. Before I get into the details I would like to thank everyone who has participated in the Chocolate Cats Birthday Giveaway. It's been exciting getting the series of giveaway ready for you guys.

The Final Giveaway is again courtesy of Prince Hotel & Residence KL -  A 2 Day 1 Night Stay in a Deluxe Room inclusive of Buffet Breakfast for Two(2) Persons at Eccucino. Looks like for one winner, it's time for a quick getaway. *winks*

How to win this one? Just answer...

Name one place you would like to visit before you turn 37 and why.

You must be a Follower of Chocolate Cats, so click Follow. Then leave your Follower ID and Email. Winner will be picked at random. One entry per follower only.  Winner announcement will be made on this page within two days from end date. Giveaway is open to Malaysians only. Good luck guys!! :) 

The Prince Hotel Giveaway Ends: Friday 28th September 2012 11.59pm

Huge thank you to The Prince Hotel & Residence KL!!