BePlain Clean Beauty Trial Kit review

I was on Olive and Young and purchased some of the BePlain popular products. They gave me 3 trial sets and I decided to test them out. Upon research, I discovered that all these are their best products. Other than step 4 (CicaCalming Gel), all of them have received one or more beauty awards.

I started testing these out on a day when my skin was famished and I had worn a (medical) mask for over 5 hours. It was a very cold day, so my heater was on full blast, not to mention, the humidity at home fell to 38%. My skin was sensitive. This is when I decided to give this kit a try!

Each kit contains 5 products. Before I begin the review, I wanted to mention that if you are planning to try out a trial kit, a good tip to remember is to give your skin enough time to absorb the product from the last step before you begin using the next step, this will allow your skin to benefit from each product and won't cross-contaminate the ingredients of each by mixing them together.

For each description, I pulled the translation from Google Translation (and made small edits)... apologizes in advance if they sound strange.

Step 1: Greenful pH-Balanced Cleansing Foam

This is a mildly acidic cleanser that is recommended to use every day. Clear to ultra-fine dust!

Mung bean extract and mung bean powder contain moisture, moisture-free face wash with mild acidity

#ideal for sensitive skin, 

#safe face wash, 

#mung bean face wash

Mung bean clears tired skin and gives a beautiful mind

In the old days, when there were no face washes, mung bean powder was used to wash grains. Mung bean has been loved for a long time as a raw material that helps purify the skin. 

BePlain mung bean foam contains mung bean extract to provide excellent cleaning powder as well as the comfort provided by grains. 

This is a gentle daily facial cleanser that is made with Mung bean extract that helps cleanse impurities while keeping the skin hydrated and comfortable.

Take a small amount and later with water, gently massage onto your face and rinse thoroughly.

impressions:

• hardly any scent (but did smell a bit like mung beans)
• very sticky and dry (needed to add water as you lather)
• worked up a nice pasty lather
• I noticed that my skin got a bit.... brighter/whiter

I noticed the aroma of mung beans the moment I started using this cleanser, it felt like I was slabbing on some mung bean paste dessert on my face. There were even bits of mung beans in the cleanser!

Step 2: Chamomile pH-Balanced Toner

Gin - Full of chamomile! Premium soothing and moisturizing feeling provided by premium ingredients/

non-plain chamomile weak acid toner

Medication containing chamomile flower extract (U.S.) Acidic production Moisturizing for the whole family

#Whole Family

#Daily

#Safe moisturizing 

Checkpoints
01 Dark chamomile flower extract and hypoallergenic formula gently soothes tired skin from external environment and stress

02 moisturize #toner pack on sensitive days. If your skin is irritated, moisten a cotton pad or dry sheet and use it as a sheet pack

This is a mild and calming toner containing Chamomile flower extract.

After cleansing, use either your hands or a cotton pad to gently pat over your face and neck in the morning and evening.

impressions:

• no scent
• very soothing
• it has an alkalized feel
• my skin absorbed everything and it felt good and plump

Step 3: Cicaful Ampoule II

A full bottle of bottle grass FULL!

The best soothing ampoule for men and women with troubled skin by word of mouth

Be Plain Cica Full Ampoule II

Contains Centella Asiatica extract

Soothing/moisturizing ALL CARE

Daily soothing ampoule

#troubled skin

#calm sica

Use it like this

01 For both men and women who need sedation

#after shaving ampoule

It has a non-sticky, refreshing finish that is suitable for any skin type. 

Men also, try using it for soothing

02 What if you need more calming?

Wet a cotton pad in the ampoule and leave it on the skin for 5 minutes. When used as a simple #ampoule pack, it is more effective for quick skin soothing. 

A highly concentrated nourishing ampoule with Centella Asiatica extract that soothes and hydrates skin.

Soothe your face with toner. Gently apply a few drops on the face and neck. Ideally use twice daily, AM and PM

impressions

• has a slight hint of floral but it is close to not having any fragrance
• ampoule = serum? it has a very serumy texture (they weren't joking when they said a few drops... all you need is a few drops for your face AND neck... you don't need more... your skin will give up absorbing more than the few drops it needs.

Step 4: Cicaful Calming Gel

Cica Gel, which contains the FULL true energy of Cica Full Ampoule, the best-selling Be Plain

Be Plain Cica Full Calming Gel

Contains Centella Asiatica extract

Soothing/moisture Barrier ALL CARE

skin temperature soothing gel

#Cica Gel

#hydration

Use it Like This

01 Use as a sleeping pack

Apply twice before going to bed and use it as a sleeping pack. The next morning, you can feel your skin feeling more comfortable.

02 Write with toner pack

Wet the toner and put it on your skin, then put Cica Full Calming Gel on it. 

It does not dry out even after leaving it on for more than 10 minutes, and it further enhances the effect of the toner pack.

A gentle soothing gel cream with Centella Asiatica extract and Fig extract that instantly produces relief and hydration for sensitive skin

take a moderate amount and gently massage over the face and body. Use twice daily, AM & PM

impressions:

• didn't feel sticky
• very light
• no scent
• has a gel-like texture similar to aloe vera (from the leaf)

Step 5: Chamomile pH-Balanced Lotion

Chamomile pH-Balanced Lotion

I did a double-take and thought this was the same product as the second step, but it isn't, they look similar but this is a lotion and that one is a toner.

Gin - Full of Chamomile! Premium soothing and moisturizing feeling provided by premium ingredients

Non-Plain Chamomile Slightly Acidic Lotion

Contains chamomile flower extract

Weak (US) acid manufacturing

safe moisturizing for the whole family

#Whole family
#daily"
#safe moisturizing

Checkpoints

01Dark chamomile flower extract and hypoallergenic formula
it gently soothes the skin tired from the external environment and stress.

02 Milk Type soft lotion
It is quickly and freshly absorbed, leaving rough skin soft and moist

A mild and calming lotion containing Chamomile flower extract that delivers hydration to skin for a supple, soft, and healthy-looking complexion

soothe your face with toner, apply twice daily in the morning and evening. 

impressions:

• reminds me of emulsion (light milky moisturizing solution)
• no scent
• added an extra layer of "protection" to seal everything in
• face felt even softer after using

so.... wow! just.... wow! I love this trial kit! I used this skin routine for a few days (since I had a few trial kits) and noticed a dramatic change in my skin!... 

This is perfect for those who have very sensitive skin and/or damaged skin. 

I'm done! This post took A LOT LONGER than I thought it would take!... I apologize for any broken English (my brain was fried by the time I finished trying to figure out what the Korean-> English translations were saying).

Overall, BePlain seems to be a good skincare brand. I am planning on buying their full-size products for the Camomile products and the green bean (mung bean) cleanser. 

Let me know if there were any products you found interesting :) or which ones have you used/heard about and are interested in/have an opinion about :)

DQ (Dairy Queen's) Bacon Cheeseburger short review

Dairy Queen's burger box

This is the first time I ordered something from DQ (Diary Queen) that does not involve any sort of cold ice cream (FYI: I love their ice cream). People have been raving about their cheeseburgers and I decided to give it a try :)

I ordered their Bacon Cheeseburger (the official name of this burger is: Bacon Two Cheese Deluxe 1/3 lb.* Signature Stackburger)... but I was a bit disappointed... The presentation wasn't bad but the taste wasn't as good as I thought it would be. 

This Bacon Cheeseburger was a bit dry and a little bland (compared to Wendy's and McDonald's cheeseburgers...).

pros:

• very very filling, a substantial meal
• many layers adding to the burger's depth
• features two types of cheese
• lots of meat (burger patties were 1/3 pounders!)

cons:

• dry
• bland (needs way more flavours/flavouring)
• cheese was lacking the cheesiness we all crave in a burger

score: 6.5/10 (I will stick to their ice creams and ice cream cakes)

website: https://www.dairyqueen.com/en-ca/menu/bacon-two-cheese-deluxe-signature-stackburger/

Bioderma Hydrabio Serum review

NOTE: Before the review, I wanted to mention that this review was written on January 15, 2018... I have gone through a few bottles since (which proves this is a good product and it works really well for me)... I found this review sitting at the bottom of my drafts and realized I forgot to publish it... so here it is! :D

Hey, my sweeties!

I found an amazing serum and I wanted to share it with you! I found this at my local drug store but I'm sure it is available in most drug stores because of Bioderma's popularity (around the world) and this is one of their main products. 

Some info about the product:

• Made in France
• 40 ml (it is only available in one size)
• approximately ¥3200 JPY (in 2018) $43.00 CAD before taxes (in 2023) thanks to inflation 😡 

This is a Moisturising concentrate serum that is suitable for very dehydrated sensitive skin. 

However, that being said, I have noticed if I apply more and too often, it does worse than it does good. (weird bumps will form when I use this more than the daily recommended 1-2 times). 

The directions are to apply to the face and neck in the morning and/or evening after cleansing and using a toner. Use alone or before applying a Hydrabio skin care product. 

I find much joy in using this pump... it gives you an exact amount for your face :D I like how it has a substantial touch which gives it a more controlled 

I use it with my HadaCrie. This not only helps my skin absorb more, but it multiplies the effectiveness and benefits of this serum.

impressions:

• it feels like my skin has drunk water
• quenches my skin
• soft subtle aroma that doesn't linger
• glides onto my skin and is absorbed well
• unlike most serums, it feels slightly thicker (between a moisturizer and serum)
• it is thicker but lightweight at the same time

They say that time will tell (this is me writing this portion in 2023) and this serum has lived up to its hype (or lack thereof). 

I'm glad that Bioderma is as popular as it is, and I can find this brand/product in most drugstores I have visited around the world :).

This product always quenches my skin and leaves it feeling moist and hydrated, the best way to put it is that it makes my skin feel like it has drunk lots of water.

There is a slightly silky and stickiness when you first apply the product on your skin but your skin will immediately absorb it and your skin should be velvety and moist. If there is residue, it means you have applied too much and bumps might develop overnight. SO... DO.NOT.APPLY.TOO.MUCH.PRODUCT!

score: 8.5/10

website: https://www.bioderma.ca/en/all-products/hydrabio/serum

Facial Ice Roller review

 

I ended up with a faulty one, this one leaked. But since it technically still does its job, I can still give it a review. 

I had concerns about using ice on my face because I was worried that the ice might "stick" to my face (like what happens when you lick an ice pole in winter and your tongue gets stuck on it). But after using ice on the face, I can confirm that it will not happen. Your face is warm enough to melt the ice quickly unlike a pole where the heat is retained. Be sure to do this over a sink or a towel, because the ice melts fast, and before you know it, the water will start dripping down your face.

I found that if you have super sensitive skin (and are bothered by how cold the ice is) you can use this facial roller with the silicone on. On days my skin feels sensitive, I prefer to leave the silicone on and use it. It works really well and prevents the cold from stinging my skin/face and less water drips from your face. The ice will simply melt inside the silicone container.

Impressions:

• so cold but makes my skin feel so good
• skin becomes saturated/quenched in water
• makes applying skincare much easier (more on that below)
• skin feels so much softer after using
• easier to control where ice/coldness should be

I really like this face roller! It calms inflamed pores and acne. 

Skincare and Ice Roller

The Ice Roller fills your pores with water, and your skin feels like a saturated (filled with water) sponge. It feels strange touching your skin because it will have a weird pore filled with water texture (think flat water balloons).

It helps my skincare products absorb much better, but do not apply your products right after, allow your skin to absorb the water before you apply any skincare products or they won't be absorbed properly. 

I can't think of any cons to this product! It is affordable, it works, and it comes with many benefits.

Score: 10/10

no website

Comparison: Oral B Satin floss vs Glide Advance

 

These two are from the same brand, Oral-B, but are completely different. 

It's funny how everyday topics can become unexpectedly interesting. Today, I find myself discussing something as mundane as dental floss. But something as simple as dental floss can make or break your day. I want to explore the similarities and differences between these two options, Satin and Glide. It's a conundrum many of us face when we stand in front of the dental care aisle, wondering which one to choose from the many options available. 

I leave it up to luck to choose the right one, they look similar and sometimes I choose the wrong floss. It can be incredibly frustrating. It's funny how we tend to hoard things, even dental floss! But after writing out this review, I have clarity and I will toss out the Satin floss. Sometimes, letting go of what isn't working and sticking with what does is the best approach. So, it is time to bid farewell to the Satin floss and avoid those pesky bad flossing experiences in the future.

My Experiences:

Pricing:

The Satin floss is priced at $5.50 for 50 meters, whereas The Glide floss is available at $6.29 for 40 meters. While Glide may come at a slightly higher cost, it's a case where you genuinely get what you pay for, and it's well worth splurging that extra 70 cents for a superior product that provides less floss.

similarities:

both are minty but the Glide is more minitier than the Satin. (that's all the similarities I can find)

the floss on the left is Satin, the one on the right is Glide

From the picture, you can already see that the Glide is much more solid and tougher than the Satin. The Satin is too thin and flat. 

Satin

Pro-ish:

• While it does an excellent job of thoroughly cleaning and dislodging hard-to-reach particles stuck between your gums and teeth gap, there's a notable downside. Every single time I use it, it seems to dig quite deep into my gums, leading to bleeding gums without fail. The cuts it creates in my gums can be rather painful and linger for a few days afterward. 
• It is disappointing... even when I try to floss as gently as I can.

Cons:

• It is plasticky, feels like a folded-up/rolled-up plastic bag, causes a weird friction between the floss and my teeth and forces me to floss harder.
• It is flat, so the sides feel sharp. On the note of being flat, the floss always ends up folding up (horizontally) making it weaker and narrower.
• The material used easily breaks, sometimes, it breaks in between my teeth, creating more things for me to floss out. >___<
• The floss is too flat so you need to use it a few times to get everything out.
• Barely minty

Glide

Pros:

• It does a perfect job flossing, I do enjoy using it as it fits nicely in between the teeth and does not hurt your gums.
• Does not hurt gums, it, like the name, glides smoothly and gently removes.
• it is solid and waxy and doesn't easily give way or break.
• the shape remains consistent/constant and the area never gives in and properly gets rid of the particles.
• very minty

Cons:

• Can be a little thinner than I would like it to be. Sometimes, it does not have enough strength to remove everything in one floss.
• It can be a bit waxy and leave your fingers with some wax substance.

Verdict:

I have tried to discuss my experiences in as much detail as possible and the clear winner is Glide Advance. Although it is slightly more expensive than the Satin floss, the pros outweigh the cons. 

If you want a good flossing experience, the Glide Advance is the much. better choice :).

It's my Birthday!

 (This was originally posted on my daily blog)

 

It's my Birthday! 

Every year I try to reflect on things I learned and have accomplished. These are the things I have learned:

1. Those who matter won't mind, and those who mind won't matter. 

I can't stress enough how true this is. When I reflect on my friendships from years ago compared to those I have now, a clear pattern emerges. The friends who have stayed through thick and thin, regardless of how I may have stumbled along our journey, are the ones who remain steadfast and our friendship has only grown stronger. On the other hand, those individuals I once believed held great significance in my life often vanished at the first sign of a misstep or when they perceived that I no longer held the same importance in their eyes.

2. Don't take things for granted. Appreciate what you have.

I can't emphasize the importance of this. We don't realize how much something matters to us until we lose them. For example, when I lost my trees... yes, they were always there for me, but I never realized how important and how much they would affect me with their presence. 

I try to cherish each relationship and everything I have.

3. Be Positive.

I wasn't aware of the effects of being negative till I met a very negative person. She actually "had it all" a job, a house, a family and friends, yet she will complain that God did her bad because of a few inconveniences. God definitely spoke to me while I tried to convince her that she should be focusing on the good she has. 

Her negativity resulted in her family leaving her and her friends ignoring her calls. 

I learned through her that it is okay to complain but at the same time, look for the good.

4. Trust God

This has been tough for me, but I have learned to trust God in all circumstances. I also learned that He is the only one who cares about me more than anyone or anything in the world. 

5. It is okay to Lament.

Throughout the past year, God has shown me that I can lament and complain to Him because He cares (there is a WHOLE book in the bible called Lamentations!). A lot of times, I have considered complaining to friends... (who care about me) but there is only so much they can do, BUT God is different, He cares and He can do something about our circumstances and suffering, so why not run the best source.

The media doesn't talk about this enough, but when the premier of Nova Scotia cried out to God (regarding the horrifying wildfires engulfing the province in May/June) God answered and He extinguished them.

I take these lessons to me as I move on to next year. filled with hope and living through God's promises for me. May I grow another year wiser :)

Thanks for your support for this blog and for me this year <3

Sharpie S-Gel Pens review

 

It has been almost a year since I've had these and I think I'm ready to give a review.

Sharpie S Gel pens were heavily advertised across Youtube and other social media platforms. It piqued my interest because Sharpie, the permanent marker, has always been one of my favourite writing tools, whether it was to create posters or write on parcels or to even take notes, Sharpie markers have been with me through thick and thin.

I was quite excited to hear that they have gel pens available and I really wanted to get them. I was very hopeful. 

very sleek design

These were advertised as:

• having vibrant colours (black, red and blue)
• smooth writing

They claim:

experience a high-performance gel pen

Features:

• Contour rubber grip (for a comfortable writing experinece0
• always vivid writing (with intensely bold ink colours)
• no smear, no bleed technology (for an exceptional writing experience

They were sold out everywhere! I finally stumbled upon a Walmart and they had one pack of these left! 

writing (please excuse my messy writing) lines look nice... writing not so...

These are medium with a 0.7mm point tip.

(They also come in Fine 0.5mm and Bold 1.0mm)

writing bled through pages... (Muji notebook)

impressions:

• smooth but felt a bit runny
• has a slight sharpie scent (like the marker but very toned down)
• it is smooth but not on all paper
• it leaks through paper
• it is smear proof (and quick dry)
• it is not waterproof

I really liked how they felt in my hands. The rubber grip made it easy to hold the pen and the plastic body made me wonder whether it was metal or plastic. It has a nice matte finish.

I was also disappointed that it isn't smooth on all papers. It leaked through my Muji notebooks (Muji notebooks have higher quality paper than normal loose-leaf lined paper). 

random doodling... (disclaimer: I can't draw!)

Drawing:

It didn't take long for me to realize that these pens were made for drawing more than writing. For drawing and doodling, they do a nice job (whether you are drawing lines or circles) but when you are writing, I found it tough to write nicely.  The ink colour is definitely very bold and vibrant. I haven't had the chance to use blue and red (once I get to test them out, I'll leave an update here).

I had a drop of water on my desk and this 2 week old writing smudged :(

The ink/gel was a bit runny and made it hard to write letters (most of my writing ended up looking like cartoon, sans comic writing). 

highlighter and smear test

When they claim that their key feature is smooth and consistent writing, it isn't for words... it is for drawings... for drawings, it was definitely a smooth and consistent experience. 

Overall, I liked how bold and saturated the ink colour was. I like that it was smooth and vibrant. However, I was not impressed by the ink bleeding through my pages and not being permanent. I was disappointed to see how the ink smudged after being in contact with a small drop of water. For a Sharpie product, I would expect the writing to be permanent. 

I would continue to use this for drawing and doodling but there are much better options for writing.

Score: 7.8/10
Website: https://www.sharpie.com/pens/gel-pens/sharpie-s-gel-medium-point-0.7mm/SAP_2096134.html

Raw Chocolate ice bars short review

Indulging in the Pure Delights of Raw Chocolate Ice Bars

Introduction: 

Raw chocolate is a familiar concept to chocolate enthusiasts. Unlike its roasted counterpart, raw chocolate is made from unroasted cocoa and does not contain additives like sugars during the manufacturing process. Most chocolatiers add sugar afterwards to achieve the desired sweetness. This results in a pure and creamy chocolate experience, making it a favourite among connoisseurs.

Discovery of Raw Chocolate Ice Bars: 

A few days ago, I stumbled upon an exciting find at my local grocery store: Raw Chocolate Ice Bars. For those who love chocolate, you know how elusive raw chocolate can be. Whenever I come across anything labelled "raw chocolate," I can't resist purchasing it immediately.

one of the raw chocolate ice bars

These particular raw chocolate ice bars were made in Mongolia.

impressions:

• it has a very strong, rich and full chocolate taste
• it has a slight mochi (chewy) texture
• it melts very quickly
• the tin foil/aluminum packaging made it difficult to unwrap the bar

The chocolate flavour is undeniably intense, rich, and full-bodied. The ice bars possess a delightful mochi-like texture, adding a chewy element to each bite. They melt quickly, ensuring an effortless indulgence.

Given recent experiences with unmeltable popsicles/ice cream from China, I appreciate the fact that these raw chocolate ice bars melt as they should. 

the aluminum wrapper made it difficult to unwrap the ice bar

Conclusion:

Discovering these raw chocolate ice bars was a treat. Their strong and rich chocolate taste, coupled with the slight mochi-like texture and quick meltability, made an exceptional experience. If you are a chocolate enthusiast like me, I highly recommend these raw chocolate ice bars. They will allow you to experience the pure allure of raw chocolate.

Score: 10/10

Website: no website

Kirkland's Cinnamon Danish Rolls short review

Cinnamon Danish Rolls

It has been a while since I saw a YouTube video raving about Kirkland's Cinnamon Danish Rolls (found at Costco). After eagerly waiting for them to arrive at my local Costco, I was finally able to get my hands on them!

Appearance:

When I first saw them, I must admit, I was a bit skeptical. The rolls didn't look as appetizing as I had imagined—they appeared slightly dry and looked unappetizing. Nevertheless, I decided to give them a try.

The pictures you see here don't do these cinnamon rolls any justice... they look small and regular-sized in the pictures... but in reality, they are bigger than the size of my palm. 

Taste:

The Cream Cheese (or frosting or icing) is quite sweet, so I found it best to heat them up before enjoying them. Trust me, it makes a HUGE difference. Heating the rolls not only melts the cream cheese/frosting/icing, allowing it to coat the cinnamon rolls better but it also reduces the concentrated sugary taste, but it also makes the outer shell crispy and gives it a creamy, buttery, and aromatic flavourful interior.

Impressions:

• must be heated (in an oven... or if you don't have one, in a microwave)
• Cream Cheese/frosting/icing is very sweet (make sure it is melted before you eat it)
• (after you warm it in an oven) the outside is super crispy and the inside is very creamy
• it has the exact amount of cinnamon sugar inside

To truly savour these rolls, I highly recommend heating them, either in an oven or a microwave. This way, the cream cheese/frosting/icing is melted. Once warmed, you'll experience a delightful contrast between the super crispy exterior and the creamy interior. The cinnamon sugar is perfectly balanced, creating a delightful taste.

Cinnamon Danish Rolls

Comparison:

I hate to make comparisons, but these cinnamon rolls actually taste better than the ones I've had at Tokyo's Starbucks, which is renowned for its cinnamon rolls in Asia. Firstly, these rolls are larger than the ones offered at Starbucks. Secondly, they possess a stronger cinnamon sugar taste. And lastly, they have a wonderful texture with a crispy exterior and a warm, creamy interior, unlike Starbucks' cinnamon rolls which maintain the same texture throughout.

Verdict:

If it's not already obvious, I absolutely LOVE these cinnamon rolls! My family devoured them in just two days, which is a record considering their generous size. Even my dad, who isn't usually a fan of cinnamon, couldn't resist finishing them.

However, it's important to note that each roll contains 410 calories, which is something to consider. Despite the calorie count, if you're a fan of cinnamon rolls, I highly, highly recommend giving these a try. They strike the perfect balance with just the right amount of cinnamon sugar, and the Danish pastry provides a delightful crispy exterior and a luxuriously creamy interior.

score: 9.9/10 (deducted 0.1 for the high calorie count)

website: no website available

Comparison: Japanese Instant Noodles vs International Instant Noodles Ramen

 

International version

The title of this post might be strange. This is what I meant: the comparison between the Japanese version of the same brand (e.g. Nissan) Noodles and the international version of the same instant noodles.

Japanese version

If you ever wondered whether they might be different, you are correct. They are quite different. In fact, if you blindfolded me and asked me to do a taste test, I would not be able to tell that both are from the same brand. 

International version 

ready to serve International version

I've always thought that the Nissan Instant noodles we know of were the standard until I moved to Tokyo and realized they are very different. There was a day I was craving that oiliness of Nissan noodles, however, when I went to the store and bought a packet that "looked" similar enough to be the Nissan Ramen I am familiar with, but to my surprise (and disappointment)... it wasn't. 

Japanese version: uncooked

Japanese version: ready to serve

Here are some differences I noticed. 

Differences between Nissan noodles:

	Japanese version	International version
Noodle type	baked, not fried, contains bits of dried ginger and other condiments	fried, a bit of an oiliness, plain
Noodle texture	thin, firm and has a heavier chewiness,	thick, slightly porous and has a light chewiness, also a bit oily
Taste (broth)	saltier, richer flavour and healthier tasting (similar to egg noodles), heavy on ginger taste (with noticeable ginger bits)	lighter brother, everything is "well balanced" and gives you a comfort food taste. Heavier on sesame
Noodle prep time	1.5 minutes (in boiling water)	3 minutes (in boiling water)
Calories	306 calories	450 calories

It has hard to choose which one I prefer because both are good and different (in a good way). The International version is more of a comfort food, while the Japanese version seems healthier and more preferred if I want a ramen meal (for dinner). 

Which do you prefer?

For those interested, here are more photos and info about each version of ramen. While reviewing the images, I realized the instructions have changed since I reviewed these noodles (on their old packaging)... so please ignore the differences in directions (between the review and the images... I'll make amendments in a bit.)

Nissin International Version:

highlights: 

made in Hong Kong

Made in Japan