How to make your face looks slimmer

published in KoreaCosmetics.kr as "How to make your face looks slimmer"

The golden rule to a thinner looking face – the exposed areas of your face should be more to an angular shape, near to diamond shape. That is the summary from various articles and also personal experience.
Some key tricks to make your face look thinner, these are also my usual practice:

1. Contouring your cheeks with a combination of blush and bronzer. Sweep bronzer along your cheekbones and then blend in pink shade blush below the bronzer. This can create contrast which will reduce the roundness of your face.

2. ALWAYS choose a foundation or powder that is 1 or 2 shades darker than your skin. It does not mean you no longer need your normal foundation or powder. Apply your normal foundation and only blend in the darker shades afterwards; darker shades are used for shaping your jaw line to create a more angular effect. But you have to ensure you do not overdo, else your face will appear two tones like trying to cover up some bruises. It takes some time to master the contour technique!

3. The third trick is a hair technique. Try the eyebrow-skimming bangs rather than keeping your hair one length. It will make your face appears narrower.

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More than just an essence mask

I'm pretty sure that most of the ladies are consuming essence mask sheet as part of their beauty rituals. So am I. Nice scent and easy-to-use, and furthermore, no washing required! That's the best part of it.

I super love essence mask~ My weekly usage is about 2 pieces in average. What more can an essence mask supply to you besides the nutrients for your face? Have you think about it? Paying around RM6-RM30 for more than a 15-minute temptation on your face... =)

This is what I usually do after putting on the essence pulp onto my face.

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Tips for travel make-up

Chuseok holiday is comming in Korea!! It’s time for travel! But… it is impossible to bring your whole box of cosmetics with you. So what do you need in your suitcase to stay chic? Let’s count on the MUST brings in your tiny cosmetic bag.

For skin care:
Travel pack (miniature) of your current skin care series. This is to avoid allergy or irritation to skin, it’s not worth risking during travelling.
(1) Cleanser
(2) Toner/Lotion
(3) Moisturizer
(4) Sun block
(5) Facial cotton pads
(6) Acne gel (if you have acne problem)
(7) Face mask (scrubs and essence mask sheets)

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Yogurt for your skin

Preface: I was offered a sponsorship on cosmetics by Korea Cosmetics recently. Thus from now onward I will make regular make-up tips once a week along with the sponsorship schedule. Babes please stay tune as there will be new released cosmetic products review from time to time. Perhaps... free giveaways for the readers too.

Yogurt... lassi, yogurt ice-cream, yogurt bar, yogurt drink, yogurt cheese cake....everything that goes with yogurt is irresistable! And oh...I lost 5kg last time with just a daily dose of 2 cups of yogurt in 2 months without exercise.... I tell you Yogurt is pretty kick-ass!

So why yogurt? Because it is natural, because it is easy to get, and the most important thing - because it is budget-friendly! Yogurt is good as a natural remedy for skin problems such as acne , dry skin, dullness or excessive oiliness. It cleanses and moisturizes at the same time, and also prevents premature aging.

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CHI Spa at Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa Penang

...continue from the previous post of Spice Market Brunch Buffet...

After the scrumptious meal, Chef Lim lead us for a tour around Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa. First stop was the CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, then to Feringgi Grill.

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A pampering treat at Araminth Spa Bali

This was back when my hair was still black. We were in Lovina, Bali, at the Kalibukbuk area. After days of travelling around and highly exposed to the sun, I decided to pamper myself a bit before going home on the next day. If you've been to Lovina, you'll understand how rural it is compare to Ubud, or worse, compare to Kuta. So I asked our driver to suggest where we should go for spa, and he recommended Araminth Spa.

In a lush tropical garden within the ancient Balinese palace grounds of Puri Ayudhya, in the heart of Lovina, reposes a haven for well-being: Araminth Spa.

The Spa offers four treatment rooms, spacious oval bath tubs for Mandi Lulur / tropical flower baths.
A relaxing garden-Gazebo, Lounge, and leisure rooms invite you to rest and enjoy complementary fruit drinks and health juices.
Araminth Spa is in walking distance from the Lovina Beach, in a small road (Jalan Mawar) leading to the beach. Tugged away from traffic, but yet close to main road Lovina and the main junction (traffic light Lovina).

“Aruna Centre”, 1 km from Araminth Spa on a hill plateau overlooking Lovina Bay is your garden Eden for your “Wellness Week”.

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Nail Chapter Center, G Hotel Penang

Up close and personal - review on Nail Chapter Center
I visited Nail Chapter the day before my pre-wedding photo shooting. Coincidence that there is promotion for Classic Manicure and Pedicure available before my wedding events, no harm to give it a try. Overall the service is very good, I was served by Helen. She shared a lot of tips on nail care and make-up while doing the cuticle treatment for me. The whole session took about 1.5 hrs but I extended for another half an hour just to ensure the nail polish is at least 70% dry as I need to drive back home. Will be a waste if I accidentally scratch my nails during driving. Didn't manage to snap photos during the session as no camera is allowed.

Manicure:
- Nail Shaping
- Cuticle Cleaning/Exfoliation
- Cuticle Oil treatment
- Colouring

Pedicure:
- Nail Shaping
- Cuticle cleaning
- Cuticle oil treatment
- Colouring
- 2 Nail Art for toe nails

Address:
Level 3, G Hotel (Pool Side)
168A Persiaran Gurney
10250 Penang

Tel: +604 229 1292

Website: www.nailchapter.com

Facebook: Nail Chapter

Only at Nail Chapter, you will discover the best in hand and feet beauty services.


The price offerings are affordable for beauty-seekers with all kinds of budget. No more nail problems or nail brittles for even the most fervent nail biter.


Located in the heart of Penang, patrons will be wowed by the swanky and stylish interior of G Hotel. Nail Spa Center is located at the pool side of the hotel. Patrons will feel relaxed while their hands and feet are being pampered.


Using only the best products, they give their customers the best at a fraction of the price. Nail Chapter only hires nail artists who are well-trained and professional in each area. They do not only know how to beautify, they will educate you on the facts that you need to know about the often forgotten hands and feet.


At Nail Chapter, they also offer hair-do and make-up services. You will be surprised at the wonders that Nail Chapter can do with your nails.

Original article and photos: Adapted from mydeal.com.my

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Happy Bunny Year 2011

My make over for day 1 of CNY.
For memory as I seldom appear in make-up.



Happy New Year everyone!

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走吧！漂漂亮亮去旅行~

前言：
这是我期待了很久，写出来的“爱靓一族”分享心得。。我一向来很喜欢写的 topic，除了旅行、事物，就是关于美、关于 fashion。
虽然我并不是 fashion designer。虽然我不是 beautician。
我就是那么一个认为女人爱美无罪的女子。
这一篇写了很久才终于写完的文章。。一篇旅行和爱美的综合体。
很有满足感，希望你也喜欢。

* * *          * * *           * * *           * * *          * * *           * * *           * * *          * * *

你是否羡慕MM们的旅行照总是明艳照人？甚至有些简直像特地去拍写真集一样。关键在于你如何打包你的行李，什么应该带的，什么不需要带的。。

我每次旅行，基本上要带的东西分为三部分：衣帽首饰、护肤化妆、电子设备。

相信MM们多数属于 flashpacker，很少是 backpacker 吧！

何谓 flashpacker？简单的形容，flashpacker 就是出门旅行还是会介意有没有带着 i-Phone/i-Pod/i-Pad 或者手提电脑、数码相机等等的新新人类（新新人类还好听吧）；或者换句话说，每到一个地方如果没有 update FB 就会周身不自在的一族。所以真正的背包客其实不是那么多的，出门旅行还要配衣服鞋子衬颜色准备拍照的，包包里有着化妆品和手提电脑的，住宿不能够和不认识的人一起睡 dormitory 得，你们只是 flashpacker。

我也是 flashpacker，从头到脚都是，因为我很爱美，所以不可能可以牺牲我的原则屈就的去旅行。以上提到的必带品，都是我的旅行之宝。有时候还会带三脚架，自拍风景照至少不用担心有没有人可以代劳。

旅行扮靓靓时还要看季节、活动、民俗风情，才能配搭的贴切，以免招来别人奇异的目光，搞不好像四不像一样。。季节大致上可分为冷天（秋冬春）或热天（夏）；活动方面就要看你旅行的目的：户外类（攀山涉水）、休闲类（一堆朋友走马看花拍照吃吃喝喝）、摄影假期（只要 DSLR 在手就可）、浪漫假期（蜜月或纪念日）、特别任务型（公干或体验当地生活）、或完全放松型（什么都不问不知不理，就是放假就对了，有什么可以做到时再打算）；民俗风情就数目的地的宗教信仰和禁忌，千万别因为疏忽而错失了些什么。

就说春季去旅行好了。。春季我蛮喜欢的，因为可以穿出温柔浪漫的感觉。

衣帽首饰
（1）花衣裳和外套是必备之物！带花裙子，或一件式洋装，加上鲜色外套，很 sweet!
（2）现在流行 leggings，不但是潮流配搭，也很保暖，所以一定要带。
（3）两条围巾，春季常吹风，而且可能会下雨，随身有条围巾，不但保暖，必要时还可以暂时帮你挡风遮雨。
（4）Baby-T 和牛仔裤。任何时候都是受欢迎的配搭。可以试试穿短的牛仔裤，里面穿黑色或灰色 leggings，蛮不错的。
（5）一双穿得舒服的靴子或包鞋，因为穿裙也容易配搭。运动鞋不太适合，虽然耐穿，但是MM也想学外国风，型一型嘛。
（6）耳环手镯项链可以带一两件，玩 mix and match 配搭风。发饰也可以带一两件，春天未必适合一天到晚把头发放下来，一吹大风你就会希望随手可以把头发盘起来。
（7）偏褐/红色镜片的太阳眼镜。
（8）有暗花的渔夫帽和画家帽都不错，如果行李袋够大的话。

护肤化妆
（1）旅行装的护肤系列，要用平常用的，免得到时才发觉对某某没用过的产品敏感，神仙都难打救。必带：洗脸霜、收束水、面乳、防晒膏、BB Cream、暗疮膏（可能会因天气变化而需要用到哦）。
（2）凉凉的天气，你的脸色通常都会比较苍白（除非遇冷会双颊泛红的人)，所以上点妆反而看起来比较自然。必带：BB Cream、蜜粉、褐色/粉红暖色系列眼影、腮红偏橙、眼线笔、眉笔、睫毛液、润唇膏。
（3）旅行若超过4天的话，记得带面膜，滋润一下。
（4）还有，卸妆棉花记得带。
（5）如果染有一头浅褐色的头发，眉笔尽量衬回发色。

电子设备
（1）国际插座 (International adapter)
（2）充电器 (charger) ：手机、手提电脑、数码相机/DSLR、等等。。。
（3）手电筒

现代社会，好像没了“手提”产品，活不下去了。。太适应随手可得的方便，少了哪个都好像瘫痪了一样。如果你是 blogger，你会发觉没带相机出门，好像忘了戴手表一样。虽然有手机在手，也有像缺了必需品的感觉。

离题了。。言归正传。

说说夏季吧。由或者位于赤道地区，一年四季都是避寒的天堂，长期住这里，热得要命。。

衣帽首饰
（1）是短裤、短裙出场的时候咯~ 收起你的长牛仔裤吧！
（2）小背心，有无花纹都一样杀。玩撞色，热天最适合。
（3）泳装戒备，碎花 bikini 可代替内衣裤，很方便不是吗。
（4）走 retro 路线的，可以背心披闪亮珠片外套。
（5）热天里鸭子帽、草帽都一样实用。大个包包较适用，要装很多东西嘛，可别忘了夏天是“傻拼”的好时刻。
（6）凉鞋不可缺。脚趾甲尽量涂。运动鞋也可出场，就看你穿什么裤。
（7）项链玩花式，越夸张的就配越单调的衣着，搭配风不失华丽。耳环可以带大大个的。
（8）头发要绑马尾也可以，束个 hairband 也不错。可显出活泼可爱的一面。
（9）墨镜专找黑的灰的镜片。

护肤化妆
（1）旅行装的护肤系列，要用平常用的，免得到时才发觉对某某没用过的产品敏感，神仙都难打救。必带：洗脸霜、收束水、面乳、防晒膏、BB Cream、暗疮膏（可能会因天气变化而需要用到哦）。
（2）热天的问题，就是曝晒率很高，很可能会起色斑，最重要是防晒，所以记得做足防晒功夫，切忌别涂浓妆，裸妆最棒。皮肤向来水嫩嫩的，其实只需夹个眼睫毛，扫一扫腮红就可以了。必带：BB Cream、蜜粉、青/蓝冷色系列眼影、腮红偏粉红、眼线笔、眉笔、睫毛液、润唇膏。
（3）旅行若超过4天的话，记得带面膜，保湿一下。
（4）还有，卸妆棉花记得带，卸妆不妥，很容易毛孔阻塞起暗疮的。

电子设备如上，个人需要。


再来秋天的童话。。看着落叶满地，一点浪漫，加一点哀伤，很情绪化的季节，穿着也一样。

衣帽首饰
（1）自然色系列的季节！有米色、棕色、灰色、白色、灰色都可以搬出来。深绿色也不错。
（2）带件毛衣准没错。黑色或灰色最容易配搭，白色旅行可能有点麻烦，吃吃喝喝要小心别弄脏咯。
（3）绒织围巾和帽子，单色的会比较适合。画家帽也不错的。
（4）不怕冷的话，短裙配靴子。选择格子样式(Burberry那样的)也很好啊。
（5）可以考虑穿丝袜，有线条的样式，衬靴子或包鞋都 OK。
（6）首饰尽量减少，因为整体上已经有很重的感觉，不需画蛇添足，弄巧反拙。
（7）头发可以走欧洲风，绑 bun 或随意卷起用发夹夹着。
（8）天气不会晒，想戴眼镜可以选透明镜片的款式，挡风多过遮阳光。

护肤化妆
（1）旅行装的护肤系列，要用平常用的，免得到时才发觉对某某没用过的产品敏感，神仙都难打救。必带：洗脸霜、收束水、面乳、防晒膏、BB Cream、暗疮膏（可能会因天气变化而需要用到哦）。
（2）秋天的问题，就是皮肤容易变干燥，甚至会容易敏感。记得做足滋润和保湿功夫，嘴唇也一样。不需要太多浓妆，注重眼睛的线条美所以记得刷睫毛液，或粘假睫毛，再扫一扫腮红就可。唇色不要太红也不要太淡，毕竟秋天的自然色已经很单调了，没必要太融在其中或制造 shocking effect。必带：BB Cream、比肤色深一个 tone 的粉底（修饰脸型）、深色系列眼影（修饰眼睛）、腮红偏浅褐色、眼线笔、眉笔、睫毛液、假睫毛、润唇膏。
（3）记得带洁净的和保湿的面膜。在外被风吹了一整天，秋天灰尘蛮多的。
（4）卸妆棉花记得带，卸妆不妥，很容易毛孔阻塞起暗疮。

电子设备如上，个人需要。


如果说秋天是展现自然色配搭的季节，那么冬天就是华丽的变身好时刻。什么斑马纹、豹纹、animal print 都可以在这个时候出现啦~ 闪亮珠片、金色银色也是我的最爱。

衣帽首饰
（1）冷得发抖的白雪天地，未必要死守黑白灰色的。冰天雪地，大胆一点，穿红色毛衣或红色风褛。颜色也会帮你潜意识的暖身，信不信由你。
（2）单色风褛内多数都是卧虎藏龙的，展现华丽的一面吧！特别是当你拿下外套的时候。
（3）在圣诞节气氛陶熏下，我都疯起圣诞吊饰的颜色来了！特别是那些 hair pins/clips、耳环、hairband、腰带和包包。。
（4）很爱靴子！各款各式的。。特别是有点毛茸茸的。
（5）单单挑选长裤来衬风衣都很烦恼哦，因为实在太多造型了！一点小变化就可以穿出不同的感觉。（不过还是有人觉得冬天的衣服色调很闷）
（6）长长的围巾~~ 真得很长的那种。对，就是可以绕着颈项转几圈的那种。
（7）皮制包包、皮制外套。
（8）墨镜戴黑的！

护肤化妆
（1）旅行装的护肤系列，要用平常用的，免得到时才发觉对某某没用过的产品敏感，神仙都难打救。必带：洗脸霜、收束水、面乳、防晒膏、BB Cream、暗疮膏（可能会因天气变化而需要用到哦）。
（2）冰天雪地，如果有去滑雪，就要做足防晒功夫，高原的紫外线很高，可能会变熊猫脸。
（3）发觉冷天的样子看来很残的，皮肤又明显较干，切忌没涂润肤液就化妆，不然整体上会变得很 flaky 的感觉。涂厚粉底的话，又会觉得很苍白，所以一样要用深一个 tone 的颜色来修饰脸型，看起来比较有立体感。建议刷睫毛液来让眼睛更有神，腮红带点金粉的会不错。必带：BB Cream、深一个 tone 的蜜粉或粉底、深色系列眼影、带金粉的腮红、眼线笔、眉笔、睫毛液或假睫毛、润唇膏。
（3）记得记得带面膜！冬天皮肤很脆弱，需要加多点爱心来呵护。
（4）卸妆棉花记得带，以免卸妆不妥，引起毛孔阻塞。

电子设备如上，个人需要。

长篇文章看累了吗？希望多少可以让你知道爱美的人旅行出门前所需做的准备。

爱美无罪，更何况是去旅行啊？当然要靓靓现身啦。

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DIY Scrub Time!

Inspired by the question raised by one of my reader on the Korean Beauty Spa, I think it's time to share something on beauty regime.

Yo girls~ Everyone loves economic and DIY beauty products. DIY most of the time means natural ingredients and least chemical, that means being healthy and go green.

SO.. Let's talk about scrub today.


(1) DIY Chocolate Body Scrub

Ingredients:
3 tbsp. cocoa powder
1 tsp. vanilla oil
1 cup brown sugar
Olive oil

Directions:
1. Mix all the ingredients except the olive oil.
2. Add the olive oil gradually until the mixture looks like a paste.
3. Take a shower then apply/massage this scrub on your moist skin, using circular motion.
4. Rinse off with warm water.


(2) DIY Honey Ginger Mint Scrubs

Ingredients:
Honey
Freshly grated ginger root
Chopped fresh mint leaves
Olive oil
Brown sugar

Directions:
1. Mix all of the ingredients in a bowl — it’s up to you to decide how much ginger and mint you’d like, but a ratio of 1/3 olive oil to 2/3 brown sugar will provide a good base for the scrub. About a tablespoon of honey will provide an antiseptic quality to the scrub.


(3)DIY Rose Mint Scrubs

Ingredients:
1/2 cup of coarse salt (ie sea salt, kosher salt, margarita salt)
Olive oil 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon rose flower water (I picked up this one at a Middle Eastern store)
1 rose
3 stems fresh mint

Directions:
1. Combine salt and rosewater, but don’t mix.
2. Shred or cut the mint leaves into small pieces, add to mixture, and use a blunt object (I used the back of a screwdriver) to muddle (basically, bash and twist the mint into the mixture so the scent and oils are released).
3. Take 3/4 of the petals off the rose and do the same.
4. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and mix. Feel free to add more, but be careful — it gets too greasy very fast!
5. Use the rest of the rose as a garnish, either keeping the bud whole or adding bigger chunks of petals.


(4) DIY Classic Milk Mask

Ingredients:
1 tsp. powdered milk
1 tbsp. runny honey
1 tsp. aloe vera gel
2 drops essential oil
1 tbsp. pulverized almonds

Directions:
1. Mix all the ingredients well in a bowl.
2. Apply to freshly cleaned face and leave on for 15 minutes.
3. Wash off with warm water and pat dry.


(5) Milk & Honey Facial Mask

Ingredients:
4 tbsp. powdered milk
1-2 tbsp. warm water
2 tbsp. honey

Directions:
1. Combine the powdered milk with enough water to make a paste-like texture.
2. Blend in the honey until smooth.
3. Wet the washcloth with as hot water. (only as much as you can stand)
4. Spread mixture over face and relax with the washcloth over your face for 10-15 minutes.
5. To finish, remove mask with washcloth and pat dry


(6) DIY Coffee Scrub

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1/4 cup ground coffee beans
3/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp honey
3-5 drops essential oil

Directions:
1. Mix sugar, ground coffee beans, and olive oil in a bowl until fully combined. Add honey followed by the essential oil.
2. Transfer the mixture to a container with a lid (the scrub can keep for 1-2 weeks sealed at room temperature).

Some people suggested cane sugar as it is a natural exfoliator. Sea salt can be substitute as the exfoliator too! As for the essential oil, you can always substitute the essential oil with lavender or ylang ylang or other oil of your choice.

The main ingredient is actually the ground coffee. Any brand will do, just get it from the supermarket. Most important thing you need to remember is to store the paste in an air-tight container and finish it within 2 weeks.

Remember to wet your body before you apply this scrub. Always apply in circular motion, as this will help to reduce cellulite and varicose veins!


Till then, stay pretty healthy~

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My new year image

After 2 years of keeping my hair chemical-free, finally I made a revolution yesterday. Now I'm back to dark blonde! All ready for new year~ Dad said next year earth colors fit for a good start in everything.



I'm ready for another great year! Yes I do~ More great stuffs to come.

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A Guide to Korean Women’s Beauty Secrets Part.2: Jjimjilbang

Adapted from KTO (Korea Tourism Org)
A Unique Korean Beauty Experience

A visit to the jjimjilbang should feature on the itinerary of every visitor to Korea. Simply put, it is a Korean-style large-scale sauna or spa. The jjimjilbang contains various kinds of different rooms, which are heated to 40-80 degrees Celsius. These sauna rooms are all made from different materials, such as yellow earth, minerals, precious stones, and salt. As you sweat, toxins and wastes from the body are released, and good energy and minerals from these rooms are absorbed. Jjimjilbangs generally contain public baths as well. Here visitors can soak in hot tubs that often contain various natural ingredients such as green tea or ginseng. Consequently, those who care about the beauty of their skin flock to the jimjilbang. However, this is not just a place for beauty. With a variety of entertainment facilities, jjimjilbangs are favorite destinations for families to relax and spend time together. They are open 24 hours a day and are thus used as overnight lodging as well. Still a little confused as to what a jjimjilbang is? Then, read on for more information.

How to use a Jjimjilbang

① Check in at the front desk: Pay up front and get a towel, a T-shirt and shorts, and a locker key.
② Change clothes: Pay up front and get a towel, a T-shirt and shorts, and a locker key.
③ Enjoy the facilities: A jjimjilbang consists of a main hall for relaxation and a number of sauna rooms surrounding the hall. You can sweat for about 5 minutes in a sauna room and come out to rest in the main hall before trying out a different kind of sauna room. Usually, a restaurant, snack bar, nail salon, spa, and a fitness facility are also available at the Jjimjilbang for an added fee.
④ Check-out: If you take advantage of any extra options in addition to the basic facilities, you can pay for them when checking out.

★★Experience!! Jjimjilbang>> Dragon Hill Spa
Make your way along the tree-lined Winter Sonata walkway and enter this fabulous complex. Located across from Yongsan KTX station, the Dragon Hill Spa is an expansive jjimjilbang complex that’s spread over 7 floors and includes a rooftop terrace. Various facilities are available, including a traditional charcoal sauna and many different themed sauna rooms, open-air baths, a swimming pool, and a fitness facility. Best of all, the entrance fee of 10,000 won covers all facilities and there are no additional charges. Basic admission is for up to 12 hours, but when you see all the different facilities available in this jjimjilbang, you might feel that a day is just not enough.

Have the Ultimate Jjimjilbang Experience at the Dragon Hill Spa!
Traditional Charcoal Oven
Negatively charged ions and far infrared rays released from the charcoal help enhance the blood circulation and metabolism.



Pine Tree Firewood Sweat Room
This room helps the body release toxins.



Crystal Light Salt Room
Lie on the floor covered with salt that has been purified by hours of heating. The salt is believed to have natural healing effects.



Hinoki Forest Bath Room
This room supplies clean oxygen for relaxation. As you rest in this room made from cypress (Hinoki) wood, you will feel as if you are in a forest. Make sure to stop here to refresh yourself after sweating in a high-temperature room.



Yellow Earth Pyramid Room
In addition to the far infrared rays released from the yellow earth, the pyramid-shaped room is said to exude vitality enhancing energy.



Natural Jade Energy Room
Far infrared rays released from jade are particularly good for patients and those people who want to take care of their skin. The temperature is above 50 degrees Celcius, so take care not to overdo it.



Ice Room
The chilly temperature helps blood vessels and skin to regain their normal size and elasticity after spending time in the hot sauna rooms.



Each room has a thermometer, so you can find the right sauna room for your body constitution.



Since it appeared in the TV drama My Lovely Samsoon, the sheep ears towel hat has become an instant hit, and is now universally worn at jjimjilbangs.



Shaved ice patbingsu or cold beer are refreshing after sweating in the sauna rooms. Just don't get too carried away and undo all the beauty benefits you got from the sauna rooms.



The bracelet key is your virtual cash for using those facilities that require an extra fee. You can settle the payment when checking out.



☞ Location: Subway Line 1, Yongsan station / Exit Yongsan station plaza and Dragon Hill spa is on the right.
☞ Tel: 02-792-0001
☞ Hours: 24 hours
☞ Official site: www.dragonhillspa.co.kr
☞ Prices: Daytime (05:00-20:00) 10,000 won, Night-time (20:00-05:00) 12,000 won (for adults) (Price does not include auxiliary services such as dining facilities, massages, etc)
☞ Nearby tourist attractions: N Seoul Tower / National Museum of Korea


Sealala Spa & Water Park

Located in Yeongdeungpo-gu in Seoul, Sealala Spa is a large spa and water park facility in the heart of a bustling commercial district. It has an impressive interior reminiscent of Santorini, Greece. Sealala has both high-temperature and low-temperature sauna rooms, offering more choices for visitors unfamiliar with jjimjilbangs. It uses the highest quality charcoal, salt, yellow earth, and aromatic plants that are beneficial for your health. You’ll feel like you are basking in nature. You can also have fun on Sealala Spa’s water slides and wave pools.

☞ Location: Subway Line 2, Mullae station, Exit 4 → Walk 300 meters to the east → LOOX building, 2nd Basement level [See a Map]
☞ Tel: 02-2628-9000
☞ Hours: 24 hours
☞ Official site: www.sealala.com
☞ Price: Weekdays: Daytime (05:00-21:00) 8,000 won, night-time (21:00-05:00) 10,000 won (adults)
Weekends: Daytime (05:00-19:00) 8,000 won, night-time (19:00-05:00) 10,000 won (adults)
(Price based on high season 07/18-08/23, rental of jjimjilbang clothes 1,000 won)

Beauty tips when visiting a Jjimjilbang


① Whenever necessary, use a cold, wet towel to soothe and moisturize the skin.
② When thirsty, drink water instead of other beverages.
③ Scrubbing salt on the body helps eliminate toxins faster, resulting in smooth skin.
④ Facial pores will open after sweating, so try a mask pack to rapidly soothe and moisturize.

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A Guide to Korean Women’s Beauty Secrets Part.1: Spas

Princess Cheryl's thought of the day:- One of my favorite passtime is to indulge myself in the newsletters from various tourism organizations around the world!~ Gonna make sure I decorate my room the way that I can spend my weekends in leisure mode, and having drinks in my balcony, looking to the sea opposite. Just like another day of vacation, but only in my house. ^.^

Adapted from KTO (Korea Tourism Org)
A luxurious treat for your body and mind

While women everywhere want to be beautiful, a walk along the crowded streets of Seoul shows that a vast majority of Korean women consider beauty care to be very important. As a result there are a large number of beauty treatments available in Seoul, and Korea’s capital city has become a major destination for beauty services.

Having a relaxing massage or facial at a spa is one of the best ways to revitalize your skin and restore your balance. Many of the major hotels and resorts in Korea now provide luxury spa facilities, and as you make your way through the bustling streets of downtown Seoul, you'll also find countless boutique spas where you can relax and be pampered like a beauty queen. We sent our reporters out to discover some of the best spas in Seoul.

Hotel Spa – Relax at a luxury spa and get pampered in style

Originally, hotel spas were available only to customers staying at the hotel, but more recently they have started opening their doors to non-guests. Prices vary depending on the spa service and treatment time, but expect to spend between 200,000 won and 300,000 won in a luxurious hotel spa, which has premium facilities and services and professional therapists who take pride in their treatments. Why not pamper yourself? You deserve it.

■ Hotel Shilla, Guerlain Spa

The spa is a joint venture between Guerlain, a French cosmetic brand, and Hotel Shilla, one of the leading hotels in Korea. A dozen professional therapists trained at the Guerlain headquarters in Paris analyze the physical condition and lifestyle of each client in order to plan a personalized program of spa services. The treatment rooms are particularly calming with wood paneled interiors and a view of Mt. Namsan. All treatments are preceded by a 15-minute foot massage that is unique to Guerlain Spa. After your treatment, you can try samples of Guerlain’s skin care, make-up, and fragrance products.

☞ Location: 3rd Floor of the Shilla Hotel. Located close to Dongguk station, Subway Line 3.
☞ Tel: +82-2-2230-1167
☞ Hours: 07:00–22:00
☞ Official site: www.shilla.net (Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese)


■ W Hotel, Away Spa

Overlooking the Hangang River, Away Spa has a striking modern interior with neon signs artistically arranged on white walls. Their signature treatment is “Awayssage”, which is a total body massage and a body scrub made from lavender flower buds and warm salt. The spa is also famous for its water treatments, such as the watsu massage where your body is stretched by a skilled therapist while you lie in warm water. This serene experience will soothe the body and soul.

☞ Location: The spa is located on the 5th floor of the W Seoul Walkerhill Hotel. Free shuttle buses to the hotel run from exit 2 of Gwangnaru station (subway line 5) and from outside Techno Mart by Gangbyeon station (subway line 2).
☞ Tel: +82-2-2022-0450
☞ Hours: 09:00–21:00
☞ Official site: www.wseoul.com (Korean, English, Japanese)


■ Grand Hyatt Seoul, The SPA

Designed to be a “garden in the city,” The Spa offers quality hotel spa services at affordable prices. Customers receive a program that is personally designed to suit their preferences and body conditions. Choose your favorite background music and aroma oil, as well as which flavor of tea you’d like to drink as you relax after your treatment.

☞ Location: In the second basement level of the Grand Hyatt Hotel, close to exit 1 of Hangangjin station, subway line 6.
Or take a shuttle bus from opposite the Migliore department store in Myeongdong (subway line 4, Myeongdong station). Buses leave at 20 minutes past the hour (Tel. +82-2-799-8088).
☞ Tel: +82-2-799-8808
☞ Hours: 10:00-22:00
☞ Official site: www.grandhyattseoul.co.kr (Korean, English)

★★ Personal Experience!! Hotel Spa>> Plaza Hotel, Plaza Spa Club

Despite its location right in the center of Seoul, the Plaza Spa Club is a haven away from the bustling city. Here customers can find peace and quiet as they balance the body and mind. This healing spa focuses on soothing the soul and nurturing the body through medical treatments designed by our physician using therapies rooted in both Asian and the Western traditions.


I tried the Korean massage, which is popular among international travelers, and is based on ginseng, a traditional Korean medicinal herb. I was massaged using an herbal ball, which was a special mix of ginseng-infused oil and medicinal herbs. It helped enhance blood circulation and relaxed the stiffness and tension in my shoulders. I felt all my stress and fatigue melt away.

☞ Location: 15th and 16th floors of the Hanhwa building behind the Plaza Hotel. Close to exit 6 of Seoul City Hall station (subway lines 1 & 2)
☞ Tel: +82-2-310-7800
☞ Hours: 10:00-22:00 (Sundays 10:00–21:00)
☞ Official site: www.seoulplaza.co.kr (Korean, English, Japanese)
☞ Major treatments: Korean massage using medicinal herbs is popular. Facial treatment called Pure Gold 24K prevents ageing.
☞ Nearby tourist attractions: Deoksugung Palace／ Seoul Museum of Art／ Chongdong Theater


Day Spa –Enjoy an individualized spa at a reasonable price!

If a hotel spa seems a little expensive, why not try some of the many general day spas in Seoul, which are often more affordably priced. These boutique spas offer a range of services, and many promote their own line of spa products. The advantage is that every day spa has its own ambience. The day spas listed below offer services ranging from 100,000won to 200,000 won. Although their facilities are not as luxurious as those in hotels, you can still enjoy high quality treatments and a relaxing ambience.

★★ Personal Experience!! Day Spa>> Will Spa

Located in the business district of Samseong, Gangnam-gu, Will Spa is an authentic Korean spa. As soon as you enter, you’ll notice the zen-like ambience created by the Asian-style interior and colors. After enjoying a relaxing aromatic tea, you will fill out a customer card and decide which spa program to take. You’ll then be pampered by a therapist who specializes in the treatment that you chose.


Will Spa offers a variety of specialized therapies using stones, which impart an amazing natural healing energy. I decided to try the Healing Stone Massage for the benefits of eliminating body waste and enhancing blood circulation. Stones that have been soaking in hot water are placed one at a time on the body, starting from the nape of the neck, and moving down to the shoulders and back. Instantly, the warmth of the stones spread over my body, relaxing it. As the therapist began to massage me with her hands, I fell asleep and the 90 minutes passed like a flash. After the treatment, I was given advice on which parts of my body were unbalanced and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. As I emerged from the spa with a subtle fragrance on my skin, I realized that beauty is not only skin deep, but also comes from your inner body and mind.



☞ Location: 2nd floor of Oakwood Premier COEX Center, 3 minutes walk from exits 5 and 6 of Samseong station (subway line 2). [See a Map]
☞ Tel: +82-2-3466-8100
☞ Hours: 24 hours
☞ Official site: http://www.willspa.co.kr (Korean)
☞ Major treatments: Healing Stone Massage, Will Fusion, Sweet Heart Chocolate Spa, and Just for Men.
☞ Nearby tourist attractions: COEX Mall／ Seven Luck Casino

■ The Amore Spa

Located inside the Lotte Department Store in the heart of Seoul, The Amore Spa is operated by Amore Pacific, Korea’s largest cosmetic brand. Amore’s Halla Green Tea program is famous for using natural green tea leaves picked from their own garden on Mt. Hallasan in Jeju. Green tea leaves are known for their benefits in preventing ageing and controlling sebum on greasy skin. You can experience their full line of green tea treatments including oil extract, bath products, and scrubs. Before and after your spa treatment, you could enjoy a movie, have some tea, or shop at the Lotte Department Store thanks to the spa’s ideal downtown location.

☞ Location: 10th floor of the Lotte Department Store’s Avenuel building, which is directly connected to exit 7 of Euljiro 1-ga station, subway line 2.
☞ Tel: +82-2-2118-6221
☞ Hours: 10:30-20:30
☞ Official site: www.amorepacific.com (Korean, English, Japanese)

■ Hannule Spa

Hannule Spa offers herbal medicine treatments at moderate prices. The spa believes that all skin troubles are rooted in internal imbalances. Using the aroma of the herbs coupled with a refreshing hand massage, the therapists focus on enhancing the body’s circulation. The spa is located on the second floor of the Aritaum cosmetic store in Myeongdong, so you can do some shopping before your beauty treatment.

☞ Location: Take subway line 4 to Myeongdong station and come out of exit 6. Walk down the main street for two minutes and you will find the Aritaum cosmetics shop on your left. Hannule spa is on the second floor. [See a Map]
☞ Tel: +82-2-318-2785
☞ Hours: 11:00-21:00
☞ Official site: http://www.hannule.com/jung/jung01.jsp
☞ Prices:40,000 won – 120,000 won

Spa Tips!

① Spas’ busiest hours are on Fridays and weekends and in the evening on weekdays. If you are a traveler and can easily adjust your schedule, try to avoid these hours in order to have a more relaxing spa experience. Reservations are required, so make sure to call the spa in advance.

② Don’t be intimidated by the long list of treatments available. Simply consult with a therapist to find the program suited to you. Most of the staff can speak English or Japanese, and some Chinese. If you still aren’t sure what to chose, just ask for their most popular treatment!

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