I Cut My Sim Myself

I'm blogging now on my bed, from my new iPad 3G! And its awesomeeeeeee!!!! Here's a big THANK YOU to B!

The clever folks at Apple have decided that the regular SIM card was taking too much space within the iPad. So they decided to reduce its size by about 25%. Yep, just that tiny bit. I guess space really is at a premium now.

That tiny little tray requires a Micro SIM which i did not have, so i cut my spare SIM card to fit the Micro SIM tray, and voilà! I can enable 3G on my iPad and iPhone at the same time, without the need to subscribe to 2 different plans. My current iPhone data plan includes 12GB of data which is more than enough for me. Why pay for an additional data plan when both your devices can share one?

If you didn't already know, it is possible to get an additional SIM card with the same phone number, same post-paid plan, from your service provider. They also provide Multi-SIM service which comes with a Micro SIM, but the monthly subscription fee is slightly more expensive. Usually, there is a one-time setup cost, and a monthly subscription fee. All 3 major service providers in Singapore offer Multi-SIM service. Hop over to their websites to find out more, because calling their hotline is usually a pain in the ass.

Starhub MultiSIM
Singtel Multi-SIM
M1 Multi-SIM

Micro SIM has inspired many new ideas because it is so annoying to have to get a new SIM card just so you can use your shiny new devices. Imagine the long queues and all the time spent waiting! Some innovators out there were quick to react, and introduced a new product, called Cut My Sim. The usage of this product, as the simple but effective name implies, cuts your normal SIM into MicroSIM. Yes, its innovative but it also costs $25. I really wouldn't recommend buying it unless you need to cut 20 SIM cards because its too easy to do it yourself.

If you prefer to cut your SIM the DIY way, read on! Presenting my so-called tutorial to cutting your first Micro SIM.


















Well, if this isn't clear enough for you, there are wayyyy better tutorials on YouTube.

Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Ingredients

There are millions of sunscreen products on the market. Some are hugely popular, I suspect, because of brilliant marketing. I haven’t cultivated the good habit of using a good sunscreen daily, but that is one of my mid year resolutions. It’s never too late to start!

So there begins my search for the perfect sunscreen. Many sunscreens now offer adequate protection against UVA and UVB rays. However, many of them also contain ingredients which are unsafe. We will focus on the broad spectrum sunscreen ingredients, which is what we should be looking for. These protect us against UVA and UVB rays.

UVA/UVB Rays
Firstly, we have to understand that there are two types of damaging UV rays, UVA and UVB rays. UVA are aging UV rays which causes wrinkling, sunspots and indirectly, skin cancer. It is a deeply penetrating UV ray which damages collagen fibers, vitamin A in the skin, and produces free radicals and reactive oxygen species. UVB are burning UV rays which are the primary cause of skin cancer and sun burn. These rays cause direct DNA damage which results in mutation and in some cases, cancerous growths. UVB (burning) has a wavelength range (in nanometers) of 280-320nm. UVA (aging) has a wavelength range (in nanometers) of 320-400nm. Note that here are short (UVA-II) and long (UVA-I) UVA rays. Not all sunscreens that protect against UVA can protect against both short and long UVA rays. A good sunscreen that protects our skin against both UVA and UVB rays should be able to protect against UV rays from wavelengths 280 to 400 nm. These are called broad spectrum sunscreens.

Sunscreen Ingredients Chart from http://www.bloggang.com/mainblog.php?id=pupesosweet&month=13-11-2008&group=6&gblog=20



According to the chart above, the broad spectrum sunscreen ingredients are Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Tinosorb S, Mexoryl XL, Mexoryl SX and Tinosorb M. These are further categorized into Physical, Chemical and Hybrid sunscreen ingredients.

Physical Protection
Physical sunscreen ingredients work by forming a layer of film on top of the skin that reflects or scatters UV light. It doesn’t get absorbed into the skin, and thus, does not cause allergic reactions. Titanium dioxide and Zinc Oxide are the most frequently used in sunscreens containing physical ingredients. However, they are easily rubbed off and are unsightly, often leaving a whitish tint.

Chemical Protection
Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the UV rays before they damage your skin, but they are also absorbed by the skin. Some people experience allergic reactions and can cause eyes to sting when perspiring.

Hybrid Protection
Hybrid sunscreens act as both chemical and physical sunscreens. They work by absorbing UV rays and also reflecting and scattering UV rays.

Zinc Oxide 290-400 nm
Zinc Oxide protects you from UVB and both long and short UVA rays. Zinc oxide is non-irritating. In fact, it is used widely for medical purposes as a skin protectant and anti-irritant. It is currently the broadest spectrum UVA and UVB physical reflector available in the market. It is also photostable, making it a safe choice for use as a sunscreen. However, do take note of sunscreens with nanoparticles of Zinc Oxide. There are studies which show that nanoparticles can take on different properties and be potentially damaging to health.

Titanium Dioxide 290-350 nm
Titanium dioxide protects you from UVB and short UVA rays, but not long UVA rays. The titanium dioxide particles used in sunscreens have to be coated with silica or alumina, because titanium dioxide creates radicals in the photocatalytic reaction. However, since it is used topically on unbroken skin, this should not be an issue. Overall, it is considered to be an inferior product compared to Zinc Oxide as it is less effective in against long UVA rays and it causes a stronger whitish tint. Similar to Zinc Oxide, do exercise prudence with nanoparticles of titanium dioxide.

Ecamsule (Mexoryl SX) 290-400 nm
Mexoryl SX protects against the full range of UVA rays and part of UVB rays. It is photostable, and is minimally absorbed into the skin. Mexoryl SX rarely causes skin irritation and dermatitis. In its pure form, it is acidic but in beauty products, is neutralized by oranic bases, such as mono-, di- or triethanolamine. Ethanolamines can cause dermatitis. If you become allergic due to sunscreens containing Mexoryl SX, it could be because of the Ethanolamines. Just switch to one that uses a different neutralizing base. Sunscreens containing Mexoryl SX and Mexoryl XL (below) are exclusive to L’Oreal.

Drometrizole trisiloxane (Mexoryl XL)
There’s a lack of information online regarding Mexoryl XL. However, it is considered a safe and stable molecule. Mexoryl XL also absorbs UVA and UVB rays, and works synergistically with Mexoryl SX.

Bisoctrizole (Tinosorb M) 280-400 nm
TInosorb M acts as both chemical and physical sunscreen. It absorbs scatters and also reflects UVA and UVB rays. It is stable when exposed to sunlight and can even partially protect other chemical sunscreens from degradation. It is produced in the form of nanoparticles, but it is stable, poorly soluble and minimally absorbed by the skin and therefore should be relatively low in risk. However, as with other nanoparticles, the long term effects are still unknown. Tinosorb M rarely causes skin irritation, and is considered to be non toxic.

Bemotrizinol (Tinosorb S) 280-400 nm
Smilar to Tinosorb M, Tinosorb S also protects against UVA and UVB rays. It is also photostable and can partly protect other chemical sunscreens. It also rarely causes skin irritation, and is considered non-toxic.

So which is the best sunscreen ingredient?
I guess there isn’t one single perfect sunscreen ingredient we can depend on. There are many formulations in the market, and we should choose one that suits our needs and lifestyle. For me, I would go with a regular Zinc Oxide based sunscreen (not microfine). It seems to be the safest option. I can live with the white tinge or simply get one that is tinted beige. For swimming, it is best to use a chemical based sunscreen like Mexoryl SX and XL so that the sunscreen does not get washed away. Sunscreens are used to protect, so choose one that actually provides sufficient protection, rather than one that causes more damage!

References
http://www.physorg.com/news63466994.html
http://www.physorg.com/news177608158.htm
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/12/18/2450030.html
http://www.healthychild.com/first-aid/sunburn-prevention-are-sunscreens-safe/
http://www.skincancer.org/understanding-uva-and-uvb.html
http://www.smartskincare.com/skinprotection/sunblocks/
http://www.savvyskin.com/zinc-oxide-vs-mexoryl-sunscreen-ingredients
http://www.healthhype.com/harmful-sunscreen-ingredients.html
http://www.bloggang.com/mainblog.php?id=pupesosweet&month=13-11-2008&group=6&gblog=20

Updates on National Day's Eve

Coastal Scents spree loots have arrived in sunny Singapore! It was my first time participating in a spree and the organizer is super efficient. Fantastic. I have since made my final payment, now patiently waiting for my items to be delivered. The shipping for my 10 items cost only SGD1.75 (after discount)! There was a USD20 discount given for purchases of USD100 and above. Guess we got lucky, it only started after the spree was opened. Let's hope that the items will arrive in pristine condition. No damages please!

On a side note, I have been madly researching on sunscreen ingredients. An article is in progress, to share my findings with you. The search for the perfect sun screen might come to an end soon! I will try to finish up the article tomorrow and do some market research at Watsons'. (Note to self: Must not overspend.)

Happy National Day everyone!

Coastal Scents Purchase

Just ordered a bunch of stuff from Coastal Scents. Will be doing reviews soon!

I was sooooooo tempted to buy at least one of the 88 palettes, especially the neutrals. And maybe the metals. Thank goodness the spree did not allow bulky items i.e., 88 palettes. I'll be sourcing for cheaper alternatives in the meantime.

Silicone Oil - 4 oz bottle $5.49

Supposedly works great as a primer. I'll be comparing it with the diva defense primer, which is also silicone based, but powder form.

Diva Defense Primer Sample 1/2 tsp $2.00

Rave reviews everywhere for this powder primer. I just had to try it. $2.00 for a sample portion, why not?

Concealer A - Multi Purpose 1/2 teaspoon sample $2.00

Let's see if it helps my horrid dark circles. Supposed to provide great coverage for all kinds of blemishes and imperfections.

Exotic Skin Foundation Sample Pack $4.99

Silk Cover Mineral Foundation Samples 7 Light Shade Set $9.95

Couldn't decide which to get, so I decided to get them all. Must stop impulse shopping.

Brushes:

Italian Badger Angle Blush $6.99

Pink Deluxe Oval Shadow Brush $2.39

Black Precision Pointed Detail $2.79

Black Stipler Brush $7.95

Synthetic Deluxe Crease Brush $2.79

These are some of the best rated brushes that were available. I really wanted to get the Wide Synthetic Buffer Brush. Unfortunately or fortunately, it was sold out.

Can't wait for the products to arrive!

Alla Checca. Serves 4.

Made pasta alla checca for yesterday's lunch. Again, original recipe from allrecipes.com. Checca sauce is a essentially an uncooked sauce, made from tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, extra virgin olive oil, and salt and pepper.

I prepared the sauce the previous night because the recipe requires it to be marinated for up to 10 hours. The next day, just boil some pasta, drain and toss it with the sauce. Tasty pasta that requires no cooking skills!

What you need:

• 5 tomatoes, seeded and diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cloves of red onion, minced
• 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 cup of olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
• 1 pound fusili or shell pasta

Combine tomatoes, garlic, red onion, basil and olive oil in a non-metal bowl.
Stir in salt, about 1/2 teaspoon, and some pepper to taste.
Mix well and cover it in plastic wrap.
Let it sit in room temperature for about 2 to 10 hours.

After 2 or 10 hours, depending on how patient you are...

Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain.
Pour sauce over hot pasta and toss. Use fusili or shell pasta because it holds the sauce better.
Top it off with grated parmesan cheese.

Very simple! Use the fresh ingredients where possible, although it is still acceptable to use canned tomatoes and dried basil. Now if only I grew my own tomatoes and basil!

Great Chicken Salad

Just made the Great Chicken Salad from my favorite recipe website, allrecipes.com. I changed the recipe a little, if you want the original, click here.

I used chicken thigh because I didn't have any chicken breast in the fridge. I also used more celery because I like it crunchy. There's no need to chop it up nicely because its all going to get blended up. It is, however, wise to chop it equally sized, so that you don't get uneven chunks of chicken or celery. The easiest way to chop celery is to cut it lengthwise into the desired width, then bunch them up together and start chopping it across.

What you need:

• 2 cooked boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 4 tablespoons mayonaise
• 4 tablespoons cole slaw dressing
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• salt and pepper to taste

Mix the chicken, celery, mayonaise and cole slaw dressing in a large bowl. (I always use too small a bowl and end up getting chunks of food flying all over.)

In a food processor, combine the mixture. (How long to blend it depends on your preference, whether you like it chunky or smooth.)

Season with salt and pepper, mix thoroughly.

Refrigerate till well chilled.

Don't worry if its too watery, the excess liquid will be absorbed after a night in the fridge. Have it with slices of warm, toasted bread.

Olive oil as a makeup remover

I first saw this on Ricebunny's website. And after that, I saw DHC's range of olive oil products. That convinced me to give it a try. Extra virgin olive oil can't be bad for you!

What you need:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Piece of damp cotton pad
• Small container

I always have extra virgin olive oil at home for cooking, so I poured a little of that oil on a piece of cotton wool and pressed it on my waterproof mascara laden eyelashes. After about 30 seconds, I wiped it across my eye lids gently, and pieces of cotton pad came off. The olive oil got into my eye and vision became cloudy and stung for a while. I could actually see a little bit of olive oil on my eye ball. Not good! After blinking my eyes profusely and dabbing at it with a towel, it got better. It did seem to remove all traces of mascara, but the eye area was red and sore due to the wiping.

After failed attempt 1, I decided to try again the next day. Because I was a cheapo and didn't want to spend another $30 on Fancl's cleansing oil which only lasts for 3 months. This time round, I skipped the cotton wool and just applied olive oil directly onto my eye lids. I used it as I would use the Fancl cleansing oil and just massaged gently, making sure that my eyes are tightly shut to avoid the previous day's disaster. Use enough oil so that it doesn't get too dry and you don't end up pulling the delicate skin around the eye area. Don't use too much either because it will definitely get into the eyes and sting like mad. Just use it bit by bit, adding more when needed. After gently massaging the eyelids with olive oil, wet a piece of cotton pad (squeeze out excess water) and wipe across the eye lids a few times, till all traces of eye make up is removed. Much better than using dry cotton pads.

Finally, just rinse off and continue with your regular face cleanser. Tadah! Your eye makeup should be completely removed. No signs of milia seeds or breakouts after 3 weeks of using the extra virgin olive oil as a water proof eye makeup remover. Of course, everyone's skin reacts differently, so be sure to do a test first. I only use it for my eye area because I use very light makeup on the rest of my face and my BOD cleansing milk works just fine for non waterproof makeup.

Now, for ease of use, I bought a small clear container with a flip top from MUJI to store my olive oil. Remember to store just a little at a time, and take note of the expiry date. I find that it works better than Fancl's cleansing oil. Its up to you to decide!