LovingSunshine - Beauty Blogger from the Philippines based in Singapore

Olay x Keith Haring, the skincare bundle for fearless Filipinas

2021-11-13T21:06:00.007+08:00

Hello Sunshine! It's RED season. My mind has been exploding with excitement because past few days I've been seeing the meme of Starbucks and Taylor Swift collab, and I'm just BOOM. When what runs through your veins is 50% coffee and 50% Taylor Swift, such a collab is enough to blow your brains right???

But that's not the only collab that's can drive you nuts, apparently! If you love art and skin care, then this once's for you. Olay and Keith Haring have come together to help bring Filipinas a fearless glow. (Insert internal screaming here) My heart can't take it, just look!

The Olay x Keith Haring collab brings limited edition pouches in classic Keith Haring design, and limited-edition jars and bottles of the Power Duo, Vitamin C Serum, and Retinol24 Night. A special edition of the Power Duo is also available for purchase that features the iconic figures of Keith Haring.

Two fearless hearts beating to the same beat

Known for his art of figures that express movement, Keith Haring was a popular artist and activist during the 1980s. His art spoke to many, his words even more. Keith Haring expressed social messages with his art and made it accessible to interact with a wider, and diverse audience. He used his fame to tackle issues that he believed in, including the AIDS epidemic. Through his fearlessness, he harmoniously combined fun and colorful imagery with activism that up to this date is still universally recognized.

Like Keith, many Filipinas are continuously being fearless in their own ways. So it's no surprise to witness this collaboration come to life. This artist edition series aims to help empower more fearless Filipinas--to not conform, to write your own rules. Fearless to face the world. Fearless to live more. Fearless at any age. Learn more from this FB Live with totally fearless Filipina, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach.

Get your fearless glow with each bundle of Olay products

Whether you're concerned over uneven skin tone, dark spots, or dull skin, there's an Olay product you can try! Now is also the best time as there's up to 55% off during the extended 11-11 sale! Add to cart the Olay x Keith Haring special edition bundle via Lazada or Shopee.

5 Tips For Decorating With Throw Pillows

2021-07-22T13:25:00.002+08:00

Hello Sunshine! It's crazy hot the past few days, and with work-from-home being a default setting, it's no wonder lately home decoration topics are buzzing on social media--hello mga kapitbahay!

Among others, I think the sala is a key focal point in any home. But how can you personalize your space--and give it a touch of YOU? Here are 5 ways you can mix and match throw pillows to make your living room more comfortable and chic.

In many living rooms, couches and daybeds are adorned with throw pillows. They add style and comfort to your family and guests whenever they lounge and chill in the living room. Add a plush quilt or blanket for extra warmth during cold, rainy days.

While throw pillows may seem “just pillows,” they are stylish elements that change your living room’s vibe and look. In turn, there is an art to decorating your space with these cute, colorful, and squishy pillows.

Use Varied Shapes and Textures

While we are on the theme of mismatched pillows, choosing different colors might not make the cut in making your living room modern and stylish. Instead of working on complementary colors, choose throw pillows with varying shapes and textures and place them in your seating area.

Let’s say you have a rectangular-shaped couch. Make it look more attractive by decorating it with circular or oval-shaped throw pillows. Doing so will break the monotony of straight lines in your living room.

Play with texture to add interesting focal points in your living space. Let's say you have a leather couch, pair it with throw pillows with fur-like, woven fiber, or printed covers. Play it safe by choosing pillows with accents or portions that are the same color as your couch. That way, you’ll avoid clashing patterns and a tacky living room look.

Add a Few Accent Pillows

Suppose you want to keep your home’s minimalist theme intact, but want to add a little bit of contrast and pop. In that case, add a few accent pillows to make your living room look less plain. Take a look at some photos of condos for rent in Alabang. The creams and soft neutrals of the units look brighter because of a few brightly colored or patterned throw pillows.

Keep in mind that when doing this tip, don’t overdo it. Just add one or three accent pillows on your couch to avoid overpowering the main interior design.

Experiment with a One-Color Scheme

Sometimes, working with one color is all you need to decorate your home. Let’s say you have a green couch. Choose throw pillows with lighter or darker shades for an attractive monochromatic look. You may also get throw pillows that match your couch’s color but with different shapes or textures. You may also choose patterned pillows, such as a polka-dotted blue pillow for your solid-colored couch.

Match Your Pillows with Nature

Throw pillows aren’t limited indoors. They’re also perfect for outdoor seating, such as patio couches or pool reclining chairs. Match your outdoor spaces with Earth-toned throw pillows. Shades such as yellows, browns, clay-like red, and beiges are some of your safest options. If you have some plants and flowers in your outdoor spaces, greens, blues, and perhaps oranges and reds are nature’s colors you can use for your throw pillows

Mix and Match Prints

Add a little bit of art and quirkiness into your living room by mixing and matching throw pillows with different patterns. For example, place Aztec-style pillows with neutral colors next to a pillow with floral prints. When selecting a throw pillow with flower patterns, get ones with colors similar to your furniture and decor pieces. By mixing and matching prints, you’ll enhance the excitement of your living room. Plus, you’ll also highlight your seating and furniture pieces with your pillows’ quirkiness. Throw pillows may seem like ordinary elements that make your couch more comfortable to sit or lie on. But with these five decorating tips, you can use your throw pillows to elevate the way your home looks. SOURCES: https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-mix-and-match-throw-pillows-like-a-pro-1791497 https://www.mydomaine.com/decorating-with-throw-pillows https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/throw-pillows-formulas

Back to basics

2020-09-27T22:32:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! It's time for a weather report. For the past few days, I've decided to go back to my roots and revisit the things I used to call home: music and books. For beginners, I bought almost all of Taylor Swift's records, pending TS1 as soon as next month's salary kicks in! Same time, I started reading books again. I've promised to myself many many times that I'd find time to read but have always found myself with an excuse or two--busy with life, busy with work, busy being lazy, busy being tired, etc. None of that now.

You do you.

Almost two years in Singapore and I feel like I've never really sat down and shared what it's like. How different is it living far from home? What changed, in me and in the way I see things? Most days, I still find myself trying to figure out the answers. More often than not, I let myself swing with the uncertainties. Then, pandemic and hit, and uncertainty truly became a way of life. It's not second nature, and I still find myself in deep despair even over the little things. But what I think helps, is knowing what TRULY makes me happy.

A few things, it turns out.

Communing with nature

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Kroo croo 🐦 #KumiLah

A post shared by ᴋᴜᴍɪᴋᴏ ᴍᴀᴇ (@kumikomae) on Jan 5, 2020 at 1:03am PST

Finding art in random places

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🇵🇭🇸🇬friendship bridge while thinking about major life decisions. #KumiLah

A post shared by ᴋᴜᴍɪᴋᴏ ᴍᴀᴇ (@kumikomae) on Sep 7, 2019 at 7:54am PDT

OMG Malay food

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One cup of rice diet🤣🍚 #KumiLah

A post shared by ᴋᴜᴍɪᴋᴏ ᴍᴀᴇ (@kumikomae) on Jul 5, 2019 at 8:00am PDT

Sometimes, when I go through this space I feel estranged by my own words. I had different motivations and interests back then, and I dismiss most of the dissonance with I was young. Maybe so. But there are bits and pieces of my youth that I still feel worth holding on to. I think sometimes, we sink in the belief that to move on we have to let go of the past.

I'm a serial purger. I regret deleting and throwing out so many things, some of which I don't remember exactly now, but I sure remember regretting the moment I lost them. That's why, in an effort to have some sort of control, I'm trying to go back to basics, trying not to deny myself of the things that I know bring back that fire in my belly just because I think there's a need for change. Let's see how this change of mindset takes me.

Stay at home realizations - ways to beat anxiety and more

2020-07-11T13:15:00.006+08:00

Hello Sunshine! It's been more than a hundred days since circuit breaker was implemented here in Singapore and I thought it would be a good idea to list down the things I've learned throughout this whole experience. I don't know about you, but trying times make the best motivators for reflection.

1. Prioritize the essentials

This pandemic really shed light and allowed me to focus on what's important. On the most practical side, it's a slap on the face reminding me how financially unprepared I am for emergencies. I'm not proud of that, because I do try to be as prepared as I could be, investing in the future so I can retire comfortably, perhaps saving to own a property like a condo in The Rise Makati, the list goes on and on. It's super true that one major hospitalisation can be the defining factor of a person suddenly going into poverty. It's scary!

The overall lack of security and complete uncertainty on all fronts: health, job, and personal relationships makes going through this pandemic situation harder than it should be. I think because everyone is going through the same spiral, there's no solid ground. Everyone's just trying to survive as well, and while I believe you should strive to hold your ground on your own, the lack of safety blanket makes it easier to just sink deep into the spiral instead.

So we try to focus and prioritize the essentials. That means, no unnecessary spending on random items like makeup and toys, minimizing dining out, and obviously no travels. And come to think of it, it's not so bad. I learned to cook a lot of new dishes in quarantine. I also learned to appreciate what I already have, rediscovering my beauty stash for example--which also aligns with my being mindful of wasting products.

2. Discard what's harmful

There's enough toxicity in the world for you to actively keep what hurts you. Be it things, memories, or even people, if they're causing you harm, just pull the band-aid and remove them in your life. Harsh as it may sound, it's the healthy thing to do. It's also not easy, but in the long run, you'd thank yourself for being brave and letting go. Life is too short to think that you deserve to get hurt. Life is too temporary to think that you have to feel pain in order to fully experience your journey.

Sure, pain is inevitable and sometimes, they do swing from places you thought were safe, but just don't be an active source of self-infliction. Guard your heart safely and take care of your worth. Those who truly deserves you won't hurt you so those that do, bid them goodbye. Sure, maybe thank them for the lessons and for teaching you to be strong enough to choose yourself, but leave. Leave the darkness.

3. Uplift people and encourage passion

One good thing that happened during this pandemic is people started circling back to their own passions and putting those beloved hobbies to work. There's a lot of businesses and creative ways to share skills sprouting here and there--and I think that's great. I think that's a healthy way of coping and adapting to our new normal.

If you're one of these people and new businesses, congratulations for making lemonade out of this one helluva lot of lemons. If you haven't found your center yet, don't worry. You'll get there. I myself am not quite sure yet on what I could do to make lemonade, but that doesn't mean I can go out there and order some.

Support your friends. Support small businesses. Support local and community enterprises. This new normal is still vague, and we're all just trying to navigate together, but if we go through this stage supporting each other, there's a higher chance to not just survive the pandemic but to also find ourselves thrive despite the odds.

4. Respect life

Another thing I love about my stay home is my rediscovered love for planting. I've always been taking care of plants, and as much as I can, I try to have a plant-baby every chance I can get so now that I have found myself having more time to care for a plant, I went all out!

I didn't even have to buy new plants. While we did start of with a few kangkong, mint, and basil seeds (by the way my basil seeds never sprouted!), I do have a few plant babies that I just grew from kitchen scraps. It's really exciting to see nature come to life, especially now that there's no actual great outdoors for us to explore. Welcoming nature back to the home is so refreshing.

5. Count your blessings

Last but not the least, be grateful of the little and big things. End each day with gratitude so you can fully recover and wake up to more blessings. Even the most mundane things, if you feel thankful for those, just be. This pandemic definitely made it a bit more complicated to feel #blessed, but still we are, we just have to take a step back from all the fear and worry and zero in on the blessings that continue to come our way.

Stay strong and have faith. Learn the lessons and live fully. This pandemic may have limited our options to a "full life" but that doesn't mean you can't. Be creative in discovering what makes your heart full and don't be shy, fill her up!

This blog is now sponsored by The Rise Makati

Be kind especially when it's hard

2020-07-11T00:52:00.003+08:00

Hello Sunshine! This week has been crazy. Been trying to catch up with news from the motherland and it's so hard. I can't keep track, and for the few updates I try to absorb, well those stories just leave me feeling hopeless. I can't believe what's happening. The amount of evil running through the veins of some our so-called leaders, it's unfathomable. God bless us.

Be kind

That's my mantra. For as long as I could remember, I always try to remind myself to choose kindness over anything. I'm not perfect, and sometimes or should I say often fail, but I do my best to follow through with kindness. I think kindness is the best choice out there. More than choosing what is good or what is right. I think it's always best to choose to be kind. Here are my reasons why...

1. It all adds up

No matter how big or small your show of kindness, it all adds up--and the best part, I think one can't really ever be too kind. I think people underestimate how much they need kindness, and because this is our bad habit, we don't normally go out asking for kindness, so we don't normally end up receiving the kindness we deserve. So when you do practice kindness, don't de-value your efforts. It all adds up, big or small.

2. It doesn't hurt anyone

I can't think of an example of kindness that can cause pain. Those who live with kindness are naturally guided by a healing hand, more than a hurtful one. And those who do receive kindness, in return, get comfort at the very least.

3. It nourishes your soul

Selfish as it may sound, being kind also helps you, sometimes even more than the person you practiced kindness towards. In times of darkness, especially when it's hardest, kindness is a two-way road to healing. It truly nourishes the soul and allows growth and light in. It's an amazing feeling to get so much in return, when you only wanted to pay it forward as well.

4. It feels good

Naturally, when you do good, you feel good. When you nourish your soul, it feels amazing. It takes so many forms: fulfilment, grace, contentment, true happiness, love.

5. It inspires more kindness

But above all reasons, what's so great about being kind is that it multiplies. Kindness inspires more kindness. During this time of pandemic, when everyone is surrounded by so much anxiety about one's work, business, or even personal life, making kindness viral is key. Pun aside, kindness inspires more kindness and in a time when those who we expected to protect our welfare abuses their power instead, when those who were supposed to lead and ensure the safety of their people end up disappointing in every step of the way, I think kindness is the forgotten cure.

How to Use the Caudalie Beauty Elixir

2020-07-01T12:14:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! Surprising to wake up to first of July, meaning we've been through half of 2020 and I bet with everything that's happening, you'd wish for the powers to just cancel this year. To lighten the mood, I want to quickly share that I just finished my bottle of Limited Edition Caudalie Beauty Elixir (the pink one) and more than the skin benefits it claims, this product--in the most literal sense--has given me a burst of happiness especially during dragging work from home days.

Now, I'm currently going through the original formulation (the green one) and in comparison, I think I like the pink one more! I hate that it's limited edition, but at least I managed to try it out. Reason being, the pink one has a punchier minty sensation, which I truly enjoy. The tingling feeling sometimes borderlines "painful" but I like it haha I use this product to wake me up when work is putting me down. It re-energised not just my skin, but my overall vibe, really. On a more practical sense of the product, I also use this before any video call. Maybe it's psychological, but I feel more of a go-getter right after a spritz.

How to use Caudalie Beauty Elixir

This are how I use my elixir, keep my skincare routine fresh!

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A post shared by Caudalie (@caudalie) on Jun 14, 2020 at 1:00am PDT

1. Use as a toner to start my skincare routine

I don't always do this though. I have a regular toner that I use, but when I do use the elixir, I use it first and wait for the elixir to dry.

2. Use as a face mist to prep my skin before applying makeup

I would recommend do this for when you won't use a silicone primer (or any primer really) as I feel it's prone to being messy if you do mix up. I also ensure the elixir is dry before I proceed to next step, if next step is powder based. If next step is liquid, it generally works alright.
3. Use as a face mist anytime of the day - to perk up my skin

Think this is my favorite use for the Caudalie Beauty Elixir! It's such a no-brainer choice!
4. Use as a sponge prep

A bit wasteful if you ask me because as much as possible I want every drop of my elixir to land on my skin haha but for some magic reason, when I use the elixir to wet my beauty blender, it just applies makeup better!

5. Use as makeup setting spray

Especially for when I'm under layers of makeup, I love using the Caudalie Beauty Elixir as a setting spray because it helps lock things down.

If you're interested in trying this out, I got my Caudalie Beauty Elixir from Sephora. Don't forget to use Shopback to get cash rebates. If you don't have an account yet, create using my referral link to get extra cash bonus!

Shopback Singapore (Get $5 cash bonus)

Shopback Philippines (Get Php100 cash bonus)

Another year went by and what a year we have now!

2020-06-28T20:35:00.002+08:00

Hello Sunshine! It has been forever since I wrote on this blog, and I think every single time I try, I feel derailed because I don't quite understand what I am using this blog for. This used to be an escape, a place where I document my efforts at chasing beautiful things; however, life just started to happen and then next thing you know, it's not all beautiful anymore.

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Calm before the storm 🙏🏼

A post shared by ᴋᴜᴍɪᴋᴏ ᴍᴀᴇ (@kumikomae) on Mar 13, 2020 at 11:01pm PDT

Truth be told, I don't recognise this space anymore. Sometimes, I deny the feeling of having outgrown this little bubble. Being a queen of compartmentalising, I have created smaller and smaller bubbles to escape in, some of which I don't think I would ever share to anyone. Those little bubbles serve their purpose every now and then, but what I learned through the process is that you can truly lose yourself when you fragment your feelings, so eloquently, like I hate to admit, that I did.

Few days ago, I got my annual email from google saying it's my blog's renewal. I find it so amusing learning how long I've kept this domain. I feel like this site is like a horcrux of sorts that keeps past lives alive. I'm not super sure how I feel about that! But I'd love to bring myself to a mind space where I would not feel regret over those past lives. I think regret is such a dangerous feeling to take with you, no matter the serving.

If you go through my planner this year, you would find I have psyched myself to write on this blog since January, but I never did. I don't remember why. I sometimes feel so estranged to my own feelings these days, mostly because this whole Covid thing that disrupted the world made it easier to discount certain emotions--all filed under coping.

So, in celebration of yet another year of having this humble space online, I want to take the baby steps in reclaiming or at least figuring out what is beautiful to me--now. Over a decade ago, I decided I will create this space so I don't miss out in recognising the beauty in all my experiences. The most recent version of me definitely forgot all about that so I want to apologise to young me because well, hiding way too deep, I thought I was saving myself but gosh darn, I think much of the damage was self-inflicted.

So, here's a song to hopefully help take you out of any brand of darkness you might be in. I feel like it's such a hard time to just be happy these days. There's so much worry just waiting out the door, but if you can, please don't retreat so much, or if it really can't be helped, don't take into hiding for too long.

This too shall pass. Give yourself every chance you can get at happiness.

Olay Natural White Angel Glow and Mochi-Mochi Cream

2019-11-18T11:48:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! The past few weeks I've been giving myself a pat on the back for taking care of my skin pretty well. Living in Singapore has been brutal to my skin because frankly, I didn't know how to continue my skincare routine. I didn't know which products to get, and if I should stick to my usuals, I wasn't completely sure if the formula is the same--or if my skin would react the same since the climate is slightly different here. BUT, I did find solace in K-beauty.

I think for almost 5 months now, I've been using Korean skincare products to help maintain my skin's healthy glow. So when I heard that Olay, a brand I've sworn by many many times, is putting in some K-beauty approach into their products, I was very intrigued. I love Olay skincare. I love their regenerist facial foam, the Olay toner is also the bomb, and I swear the Olay cc cream is the best for no make-up make-up looks. There was even a point in my life where I couldn't live without the Olay Strawberry body wash.

So while I search for my Olay K-beauty skincare to be brought here in Singapore, I'll give you a round-up on what you can be excited about--especially because Olay's new products doesn't just include K-beauty's science; but also J-Beauty!

Super feeling my skin after a good matcha mask. Japanese skincare wins yet again!

Rooted on science, K-beauty and J-Beauty finds a new home in Olay's newest offers. While each beauty approach looks at beauty regimens differently, both are driven by ingredients that target skin protection and hydration.

This is why Olay Natural White takes inspiration from the Korean beauty and Japanese beauty in its latest product offerings that come with 2-in-1 benefit.

Olay Natural White Tone Up Angel-Glow

Tone Up is a popular K-Beauty trend that balances and brightens skin tone. I recently tried a moisturizer with Tone Up effect and it was indeed an instant glow in a tub! However, most facial products that deliver tone up go a little over the top by leaving the skin as a greasy white mess; making it hard to apply makeup on top of these products. With Olay Natural White, they promise to save you from being a white mess! It's all about that angelic glow.

The Olay Natural White Tone Up Cream contains super ingredients Niacinamide and grapefruit and apple extract that instantly brighten and boost skin glow. It also improves skin clarity by balancing uneven skin tone and helps fade the look of dark spots too.

The best part, you can supposedly use this cream as a make-up primer as it preps the skin with the right hydration and nourishment for that natural-looking fairness.

Olay Natural White Mochi-Mochi Night Cream

If you dream of waking up to bouncy and glowy skin, then perhaps the Olay Natural White Mochi-Mochi Night Cream is the skincare for you. It rides on the J-Beauty trend of “Mochi-Mochi", where you can power up your skin’s natural recovery process with super ingredients Niacinamide, Vitamin B5, and White Lily Extract. These ingredients work hard to repair, brighten, and hydrate while you sleep the night away.

With regular use of Mochi-Mochi Night, you’ll wake up to a hydrated and brightened skin. It helps reduce the look of dark spots too. The dream of a mochi, glowing skin in the morning is turned into reality. Olay’s Natural White Tone Up Angel-Glow and Natural White Mochi-Mochi Night are available in all major supermarkets, department stores, and drugstores nationwide.

Visit Olay Philippines’ Facebook page to learn more about these products.

Celebrate Life's Little Wins

2019-06-04T18:06:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! Today I want to celebrate the little wins. We're now half-way through 2019 and I think it's important to look for the good, find inspiration for a better balance year. I don't know about you, but I believe life's default is for it to be difficult, or challenging at the very least. And sometimes it's easy to sink into the pain and worry--trust me, giving up can be oh-so-tempting sometimes--but we carry on. I think it's always about taking little steps to better. So today, I want to celebrate the small wins. I want to give myself a pat in the back and perhaps even a good job.

Happy pride too!

I started wearing sunblock

I have not worn foundation (or any base makeup product) for exactly a month now. I have also started wearing spf (over 2weeks now--i know late in the game... I have the sun damage to prove it). And overall I'm just happy focusing more on my skin's health than looking IG worthy. Though admittedly, not wearing makeup got in the way of my selfies. Was so insecure. I felt ugly w my imperfect skin. Wala Lang. But now, kahit di na perfect Ang skin, ok Lang. Basta healthy and may natural makeup-free glow.
11 Likes, 0 Comments - ᴋᴜᴍɪᴋᴏ ᴍᴀᴇ (@kumikomae) on Instagram: "I have not worn foundation (or any base makeup product) for exactly a month now. I have also..."

You'd think blogging about beauty, I'd have at minimum, the decency to use sunblock. But no... it has been a struggle to get here. Every now and then, I will psyche myself and say I'd be disciplined, I'd use sunscreen everyday. But every single time, I would fail.

Until I met my Biore Watery Essence. When I posted on my Facebook that I'm looking for spf recommendations, a few of my friends mentioned this brand. While I'm not a first-timer to Biore products, it's my first time to try their spf. I opted for the Watery Essence variant because the description got me like 🥰🥰🥰and true to its name, this product has an essence-lightness to it. It's watery (dewy) enough to be refreshing--like never in my life did I think I'd refer to spf as refreshing. That's how good it is.

Life. Changing.

I stopped smoking

Always tired.
7 Likes, 1 Comments - ᴋᴜᴍɪᴋᴏ ᴍᴀᴇ (@kumikomae) on Instagram: "Always tired."

The photo above was taken in 29 April, easily one of the last days when I was still smoking. I think I stopped earlier, but for ease in memory, I did mark May 1 as the day when I officially quit. I can't be any more proud.

I don't even feel the urge or miss it. One time, I was so stressed, I wanted to fall back into my old bad ways. But I just reminded myself how far I've gone, and kept my stand. So if you have been trying to quit smoking yourself, do know that it's possible. Be strong!

I'm reading again

Only $14.99 e-book on Amazon.

May has been a blessed month where I really worked hard on re-finding my center, and paving way (making time) for the things I know fuel my soul. That includes reading.

May was also the first month I made the switch to using e-books. While I think I can't ever swear-off printed books for life, I know that getting e-books for all my other casual reads would also help lessen my carbon footprint. I'm pleased with this decision. It's a two birds with one stone kind of thing. Thankful for D who got me my Kindle. That was really sweet.

So yeah, those are my three achievements, my little wins per se. All of them happened in May because the months prior were oh-so-dark. But hey, at least I'm able to say I'm back!

Generation Happy Skin Perfect Brows Review

2018-10-10T11:24:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! It's time. I've raved about this product a THOUSAND TIMES, maybe even more... but it's time. I knew I was convinced from the very first time I used it, BUT... now I'm beyond convinced. I'm changed. Seriously. This is the best brow pen for your #kilaygoals.

The Generation Happy Skin Perfect Brows Long-lasting Liquid Pen* is a dream. It comes with a precise brush tip for easy appilcation, and a natural brown shade that fits most skin tones (perfectly fits mine)!

Things I love about Generation Happy Skin's Perfect Brows

The brush pen is so easy to work with. The first time I used it, I was afraid it would dispense too much product. It didn't. In every application, you get to recreate feather-like strokes that mimic your real brow hair. As you go on, you get buildable and a realistic brow look that is perfect for everyday wear.

The shade is also the perfect natural brown for my skin tone. I told my sister, countless times, that the best part about the natural brown shade and formulation of this product... it seems to have the power to not go overboard on its own. haha Parang may max limit yung pagka-buildable niya. Perfect for girls like me who are no brow experts and sometimes get gigil.

It also works well in tandem with other products. Even for days when I use brow powder, pencil, or gel, I still reach for my Perfect Brows pen to outline my brows. Again, the brush pen for this product is genius design. It's so precise and easy to control.

The formula lasts all day. It doesn't smudge and has a lot of give no matter the weather!

SELFIE ALERT

I'm not kidding when I say I've used this brown pen in every way so here are some selfie receipts. Absolutely no filter, basically my makeup check selfies, to show the product in action.

Excuse the plastic bottles behind me. That's part of my Zero Waste Lifestyle project. Follow my @ZEROWASTEBEBE channel on IG/FB/Twitter

All smiles before a meeting because the natural light in this meeting room was divine.

I'm actually wearing a lip tint from Generation Happy Skin in this photo. I forgot the name!!! Will update when I get home.

Fresh-freshan lang after a L-O-N-G day of work. Kilay, still on point!

This was my lewk when I attended the grand launch of Generation Happy Skin. Full disclosure, I did start with a different brow, but this was the first time I tested Perfect Brows for it's brow defining purpose! ALSO, wearing the viral SPUNK lippie in this selfie.

Generation Happy Skin is available on Lazada and Zalora--where you can get cashbacks from when you online shop via Shopback!

Sign up on Shopback using my referral link to get Php100 bonus cashback.

Silkygirl Cosmetics Shimmer Duo Blusher in Sunny Glow Review

2018-08-23T18:38:00.001+08:00

Hello Sunshine! Since I'm enjoying basking in my newly rekindled love for makeup (not that I ever stopped loving beauty, but you get the drill), I'm excited to share my makeup today. Today, I used the newly released Silkygirl Cosmetics Shimmer Duo Blusher in Sunny Glow as the star of my FOTD. To be honest, I wasn't entirely gravitating towards this shade because I like my sunkissed glow to come from warmed deeper hues, but over-all, I think today's look was pretty nice.

So yesterday, I shared my monochromatic pink look using the Silkygirl Cosmetics Shimmer Duo Blusher in Rose Petal* Today, I'm thrilled to share my look using the shade Sunny Glow!

The matte shade is so perfect!

I cannot begin to explain how floored I was when I used the matte shade from the Sunny Glow duo on my lids. While I did love it MORE as an eyeshadow than a blush, I have to say, it's the perfect color for that monochromatic no makeup eye makeup look.

In my selfie above, you can see the product in action on my lids and cheeks. I tried to achieve a more baked look by brushing the color over the bridge of my nose too.

Compare to Rose Petal, which had the prettiest subtle highlighter, the shimmer shade of Sunny Glow was a bit more downplayed. However, it's matte color made up for it in ways I couldn't have imagined. I think Sunny Glow will linger inside my kikay kit for a while...

Morning freshness aka Grab Selfies!

The Shimmer Duo Blusher pairs matte and shimmer shades to illuminate your features. The matte blush can be used shading and contouring, whilst the shimmer shades can be used for highlighting. When used together, you can see an instant glow on your face at once.

Oil-free and fragrance-free
Instant Glow
Matte and Shimmer shades
Formulated for Asian skin

L-R (counter-clockwise): Cheeky Peach, Sunny Glow, Blushing Pink, Rose Petal

Lunch selfie...

Took way too many selfies today. Goes to show how much I loved today's monochromatic sunkissed look.

I'm excited to talk about my experience using the Silkygirl BB Cushions soon! Just roadtesting them to get the most of my need-to-knows before I share my thoughts.

For the rest of my face, I used Generation Happy Skin Brow Liner*, Silkygirl Cosmetics BB Cushion in Natural Medium*, Marc Jacobs Beauty Lipstick in Slow Burn, and BCL Brow Lash*.

Overall, this blush range is very handy! For just Php 329, you get a long-lasting multi-tasker!

Learn more about Silkygirl Cosmetics Philippines on Facebook and on the Silkygirl website. Visit this linkto see where I will share more of the Silkygirl reviews I'm planning to put up in the coming days.

Silkygirl Cosmetics Shimmer Duo Blusher in Rose Petal Review

2018-08-22T18:42:00.001+08:00

Hello Sunshine! Today I had the pleasure of testing out the Silkygirl Cosmetics goodies I received before the holiday kicked in. I was pretty excited because the PR kit has a bunch of bases and blushes I could play with. I love blushes, and since most of the shades in their new range are pinks... I was actually even more excited!

Frankly, when I saw the blushes, I knew instantly that I wanted to do a monochromatic look for when I first try them on. I love pink blushes so much. I remember, I even has a merthiolate cheeks phase! I don't know why exactly, but I have a thing for super flushed cheeks.

So yes, I knew instantly that I needed to do a monochromatic look for the Silkygirl Cosmeitcs Shimmer Duos that were sent to me--thanks Silkygirl! The result: pure bliss!

Monochromatic pink FOTD using Silkygirl Cosmetics

Basically, I used the Silkygirl Shimmer Duo Blusher in Rose Petal* Php 329 on my cheeks and eyes. I think the light pink highlighter for this product is a dream. It was sooo pretty. During application, I didn't even use a mirror to apply some pop of shine on my cheeks. It's such a workable color. Mind you, I went heavy on the pink on the apples of my cheeks, but I think it still looked like a really natural flush. The formula wasn't heavy and the color was definitely buildable. The powder sat well on my face, despite my extensive skincare too.

The Shimmer Duo Blusher pairs matte and shimmer shades to illuminate your features. The matte blush can be used shading and contouring, whilst the shimmer shades can be used for hightlighting. When used together, you can see an instant glow on your face at once.

Oil-free and fragrance-free
Instant Glow
Matte and Shimmer shades
Formulated for Asian skin

I also used the highlighter shade to sweep some sparkle on the inner corner of my eyes. It's super duper pretty. I feel like I had Barbie eyes. At the same time, I used the matte side of the Shimmer Duo Blusher to sweep color all over my lids. I then lined my eyes with some brown eyeshadow and then mascara--boom. Done! Today's monochromatic look, though seemingly put together, is such a throw-it-on FOTD. Perfect for when you're rushing to put on your makeup.

Here are the rest of the shades from their new blush collection. I'll try to do some swatches soon BUT I feel more inspired to do FOTDs eh. Stay tuned because I'm planning on exploring other ways to wear the rest of the Silkygirl makeup I received!

L-R (counter-clockwise): Cheeky Peach, Sunny Glow, Blushing Pink, Rose Petal

Me after a full day's worth of work... what is s h i n y?

For the rest of my face, I used Generation Happy Skin Brow Liner*, Silkygirl Cosmetics Liquid Foundation in 02 Natural*, Happy Skin Cosmetics Shut Up and Kiss Me Lip and Cheek Mousse in The Morning After*, and BCL Brow Lash*.

Would I recommend Silkygirl Cosmetics Blushes? Absolutely.

Learn more about Silkygirl Cosmetics Philippines on Facebook and on the Silkygirl website. Visit this link to see where I will share more of the Silkygirl reviews I'm planning to put up in the coming days.

Wart Removal at Skinoveau, San Lorenzo Place

2018-08-20T17:40:00.001+08:00

Hello Sunshine! This is a bit of a throwback but since I haven't shared it, I'm still going to share with as much enthusiasm as I had initially planned--I'm talking about my experience in having my warts removed at Skinoveau at San Lorenzo Place.

Had my warts removed at Skinoveau at San Lorenzo Place!

I don't know if it's that obvious but if you zoom in on my photo above, you'd see red dots all over my place. That's from the warts removal treatment I just endured. Well, maybe endured is a bit of a heavy term. It was slightly painful but it was not a far cry from any other treatment like waxing, or threading.

First of all, I was surprised to even have warts! But first... what are warts?

These small, noncancerous growths appear when your skin is infected with one of the many viruses of the human papillomavirus (HPV) family. The virus triggers extra cell growth, which makes the outer layer of skin thick and hard in that spot. While they can grow anywhere you have skin, you're more likely to get one on your hands or feet. The type of wart depends on where it is and what it looks like.

It was such a shock. I never really thought I would have warts--a lof of it even--but the technician said it's normal. Warts are typically spread via direct skin contact. That means you have to be extra cautious in sharing towels--if you can opt not to, that's even better. But no amount of hygiene can really save you because you can still get warts when you get in contact with another person who has them! It's slightly freaky if you ask me.

What I learned though... if you discover you have warts, best to have them removed. Some warts do disappear on their own as the body fights off the virus; but to prevent it from further spreading (on you or others!) just have them removed. Skin clinics offer wart removal services that are very convenient to take on. I only had a few so my polka-face wasn't that horrendous, but the burns were manageable and didn't need down time. My skin healed pretty fast.

Here are some photos from my treatment.

Trivia... I always had that annoying bump on the top bridge of my nose and mind you, I had NO IDEA it was a wart until I went to have my warts removed at Skinoveau and lo and behold, it was actually a skin wart!!!! So happy it's out!!! It was so annoying. And as you can see by the chemical burn, it was a bit big so I can really notice the bump! Thanks Skinoveau!

They say you can go back to your skin clinic every quarter or as often as needed to maintain a wart-free skin. Treatment cost varies depending on your skin's condition.

Learn more about Skinoveau and their promos on Facebook.

Benefit Brow Waxing

2018-08-17T17:01:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! Today's post is an example of a better late than never update. So I have a for the blog folder in my old phone, which I replaced last March, and it's now August and it's only now that I'm actually sharing this experience. VG! Anyway, earlier this year the Benefit boutique at Greenbelt got bigger and better and yours truly got the chance to visit the boutique to try out one of their more popular waxing services* (starts at Php 700).

Pretty store

Here is the full setup. You have the hot wax, a brow brush, some tweezers, and the tissue, cotton, and dipper for the wax. You'd be pleased to know that of course, they don't double dip. Their hot wax is also high-quality cosmetic grade so you won't have any problem even if you have sensitive skin.

During the treatment, the brow technician will map your brows. I had the privilege of being serviced by her royal browness herself, Celina of Benefit PH.

Perfectly groomed brows can brighten your face, check out @kumikomae ‘s brow transformation from undefined brows to naturally shaped brows. #BrowTransformation #BenefitBrows #BenefitBrowsPh #WowYourBrowsWednesday #CantLiveWithoutBenefitBrows #NationalBrowArtist #BeneBrowsByCelina

A post shared by Astrud Celina (@browsbycelina) on Feb 6, 2018 at 10:52pm PST

She first mapped my brows to show me the general shape of my brows after they get groomed. She showed me how to do this to for when I do my own brows using Benefit brow products, of course! The whole experience was fast and absolutely not painful, if you ask me. I really liked how easy it seemed to wax your brows, as I watched Celina do her thing! But of course, I wouldn't recommend you wax your own brows. If you can have a professional do so yourself, please do. Grooming your brows can be as frequent as monthly or every other month. You just have to tweeze any stray hair between waxes.

For days after my brow grooming at Benefit, promise, I felt really pretty even without makeup! Super confirmed that kilay is life!

Burt's Bees Radiance Day Cream with Royal Jelly

2018-08-17T11:29:00.002+08:00

Hello Sunshine! So in an effort to revive this space, I want to share the day cream that has been making me feel really happy in the mornings. I'm actually NOT sure if this product is discontinued, but I really hope not. It's still available on Amazon. It's the Burt's Bees Radiance Day Cream with Royal Jelly*.

Half full!

Nourishing facial moisturizer that will leave your skin moisturized and smoother for naturally radiant skin. Burt's Bees Radiance Day Cream is formulated with one of nature's most powerful nutrients, Royal jelly, to help enhance skin's youthful glow while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

I love this moisturizer cause the consistency is so fluid and light. It's a pretty drippy consistency, so what I do is I just dip my finger and use what coats the tip of my finger as the right amount of product for my full face.

I like it. It feels nice over an emulsion, again because the consistency is very light; and at the same time, it feels nice under makeup. When I use this moisturizer and apply liquid foundation (after it is at least decently absorbed by my skin), it doesn't feel gooey and doesn't leave my foundation streaky.

Sometimes, I would use this moisturizer with a cream blush to make my blush a bit easier to apply. It's a hack-friendly moisturizer, really.

Burt's Bees is truly one of my top favorite brands. I'm always with at least one product from this brand. I love it's whole mission, and it certainly doesn't hurt that all their products are almost always a winner! More Burt's Bees reviews here.

Check out other Burt's Bees products that I must say are worth trying. I'm going through my tub of hand cream, and am proud to say I can no longer count the number of Burt's Bees Natural Body Oil and Lip Balms that I've been through!

It's been 84 years...

2018-08-16T16:17:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! I will not sugarcoat things and just say that it truly has been forever since I updated this blog. It reached a point where I felt like the blog was asking so much of me without adding value to my life anymore--sounds melodramatic, I know--but that became my truth and for a while I made this conscious effort to really stay away until I figure things out. That's just how I'm wired. I like doing things with meaning, and I have to admit, I hated how the true meaning behind why I built this little space faded way into the background. I'm sorry, idealistic me. But... hello.

The last selfie

Some updates

I'm doing a selfie detox for the month of August. It kinda sounds funny, but I'm taking it seriously. It just dawned on me that I'm turning 30 really soon and I want to take a few of the things that I sometimes think makes me feel shallow a bit of rethinking. Not that selfies are shallow per se, but I just really want to put more intent and purpose to everything that I do.

I've been living zero waste (as much as I can). I've been documenting the journey on my Zero Waste Instagram page. To be honest, the whole zero waste journey has been filling me with the same sense of joy I used to get out of beauty blogging. It was so refreshing. No strings attached. Just me, doing what I want, what I think is right. It's so so good. It was also so so good for my soul.

I'm also doing really well with the whole you got to travel more if you want to grow as a person thing. I was at Jakarta recently to attend the We The Fest 2018 event because Lorde... and it hasn't been a month and I'm already itching for that next trip! I don't have one in the line-up yet, but I'm thirsty for the rush. So thirsty, I booked a flight yesterday! So help me god. hahaha

Anyway. I just wanted to say hello on this page and document one of the things that I promised myself: more time for things that give me joy.

Am I Making My Acne Worse by Applying MakeUp?

2018-06-22T14:30:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! I just want to share that few days ago I had a pimple! Me, the girl who NEVER gets a pimple had one... on her chin... it was soooo annoying! I may sound like I'm exaggerating but promise, in that moment, I truly felt the frustration of those who actually experience acne more regularly.

Today, I want to address the question: "Am I Making My Acne Worse by Applying MakeUp?" See, the concept of skincare today is massively different to what we thought of it back then. In the recent past, skincare routine was composed of alcohol-based cleansers (which we also mistakenly called toners), stringy astringents, and Chinese whitening creams. Today, beauty and beauty and skincare has become complicated, somehow forcing consumers to spend thousands both in skincare and makeup lines.

Today, as more people are getting and investing in their skincare products, and more products are being released even for problems we did not know we had, more questions are being put into light. To women of today, one bad trial routine of skincare products could result in a massive and irreversible breakout. With our increasing awareness and knowledge of how our skin works, we are being very, very careful–sometimes, even too much– with what we digest and put into on our skin. One of the questions most–if not all–of us had was, “Can I put on makeup if I have severe acne? Won’t it worsen my skin?”.

The short answer is yes, you can, and maybe it won’t. The more interesting version is you can, and it probably won’t–with the use of right products.

Some makeup lines are made for superficiality: to color, brighten, and conceal; while some are indeed formulated to fix and protect your skin. In fact, a good show of that are sunblock being integrated into BB creams and foundation and moisturizers being put into lipsticks. More interestingly, to cater some of us who want not just to conceal acne and its dreadful marks, but also fix and heal them, there are makeup lines that have been produced for us. Some are more popular products such as Neutrogena and Clinique, and some are somehow new to our ears, such as Medicube.

So, if you are acne-prone and consider yourself a makeup junkie, it’s time for you to exercise your patience, and find time to actually read a product’s label, and research. But generally, here are some things that you should be on the lookout for:

Hypoallergenic

When products say that they are hypoallergenic, what does this really mean? Hypoallergenic products were formulated to less likely cause an allergic reaction, due to the lack of irritating agents. If you are looking into various products–from makeup to cleansers–, hypoallergenic products could be one your safest bets. Having that label on most baby-related products speaks highly of it. If it’s safe enough for a baby, we can say that it’s generally safe for us as well.

Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid

You might have encountered this term if you have been struggling with acne for a long time. Benzoyl peroxide is used to treat mild to moderate acne topically. It makes the skin not prone to bacteria and helps in removing dead skin cells. Most users have reported amazing results with using benzoyl peroxide topically, so it is great to see that makeup lines are trying to incorporate this in their formulation.

Salicylic acid is of the same nature, as it also removes dead skin cells that are clogging pores. It is, however, best for whiteheads and blackheads. It is also milder than benzoyl peroxide, so if you have sensitive skin and minimal breakouts, you are better with having makeup products that contain salicylic acid.

Oil-based Products

Some people report that their makeup actually caused their acne. The cause of acne is usually clogged and irritated pores and oil is sometimes one of the culprits of that. So, if you are acne-prone and is using oil-based makeup, you might be actually worsening your acne. Your best option is to veer away from any oil-based foundation (even if you love it!), and go for the oil-free option.

“Non-comedogenic”

More often than not, we see a lot of products that have “non-comedogenic” on their labels, without actually any explanation on what it stands for. Comedo (or comedones) are what we usually call our whiteheads and blackheads, which are clogged pores. Whiteheads are closed comedones, and blackheads are the open ones, which is black due to melanin. In essence, non-comedogenic products refer to products that were specially formulated to avoid clogging pores.

Acne has been a problem for us since the beginning of time. As to makeup junkies, this can bum us out, as we also spend different products for both makeup and skincare. With the proper products and usage, we can actually take care of our skin by doing what we love: putting on and trying out makeup. For inspiration, here's a selfie I took that time before I experience my first painful chin pimple!!

Dalaga.

A post shared by kumikomae (@kumikomae) on May 25, 2018 at 10:45pm PDT

Bye Bye Dark Spots for Face and Body with Belo Intensive Whitening Bar

2017-09-04T11:20:00.002+08:00

Hello sunshine! Welcome me back! Been extra busy with so many things, I have a series of updates for you this week (excited)! To begin the fun, I want to share with you the soap I’m using lately. This is very timely, because the namesake of this soap just got married over the weekend…. Yep, it’s a Belo soap!

Sharing with you my thoughts on the Belo Intensive Whitening Bar*. This is the one with the really funny commercial which you’ve probably seen all over social media.

It’s super funny. I actually agree with the commercial’s premise. I’ve tried Kojic Soaps from other brands, event those backyard brands sold in bazaars and sometimes online, and super duper true. It stings! I remember, during those days I would tell myself, once my soap stings then I should be happy because it means my soap is finally working. It follows the whole no pain no gain mindset… but since trying out Belo’s new whitening bar, I now know pain isn’t necessary!

What is Belo Intensive Whitening Bar – Extra Moisture—all about?

The Belo Intensive Whitening Bar is an intensive whitening bar with glycerin that deeply moisturizes and nourishes dry and dull skin. It is proven to moisturize 42% better than regular Kojic soaps. As you all know, Kojic soaps are superb for whitening the skin, but thanks to the glycerin in this soap, its cult-following reap the benefits of getting extra moisture as they use the product. I don’t know about you, but I think one of the things people who try to whiten forget is the moisturizing part. I remember before, when I was super hardcore in trying to whiten, I would stay away from using lotions and body oils because I get scared that the extra step would leave me cooked under the sun. I know, it’s all mental, but it affects my skincare routine and product choices so much…. So happy to know better now.

For best results, you should discontinue using other whitening brands one week prior using this soap. This will help your skin retain its natural balance and make sure that the soap doesn’t compete with other actives, therefore help you avoid any unnecessary adverse reactions.

This soap is also ideal for use twice daily. You can also use the soap on your face, it’s that gentle! Depending on your skin’s sensitivity, you might experience some light stinging, but nothing compared to other brands.

Secret is out... I've been recently using this soap (yes I'm using a soap) for my face (so I can get rid of those very light remaining spots from the ghosts of pimple's past) #sampleroomph #NoMoreTiisGandaLang

A post shared by kumikomae (@kumikomae) on Sep 3, 2017 at 7:51pm PDT

The secret? The Belo Intensive Whitening Soap has the powerful combination of three actives: Kojic Acid, an organic compound that prevents melanin production and minimized pigmentation from the source; Tranemaxic Adic, an amino acid derivative that inhibits inflammation and reduces the appearance of stubborn dark spots that don’t respond to other skin lightening ingredients (I love this from lightening some of my clumsy scars haha); and of course, Glycerin, a powerful moisturizing agent that prevents moisture loss and restores the skin's firmness and elasticity.

What do you guys think?

Go to Sample Room for more information about Belo products that you can try for FREE! My Sample Room reviews.

Uno Premier Naturawhite Lightening Body and Face Cream

2017-07-05T10:35:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! Today I want to talk about an organic whitening skincare product that launched last month, and I'm about to embark on. While I'm not crazy about whitening, I do have my phases, and as the rainy season makes itself felt, so does the girl who wants to lighten her skin. In fact, I just started using a whitening soap a few days ago--but that's an entirely different topic. Anyway, I digress. Today I want to share about the freshly launched Uno Premier Naturawhite Lightening Face and Body Cream* I attended their private launch last month, and it was refreshing to see how far natural beauty products have gone.

A post shared by kumikomae (@kumikomae) on Jun 9, 2017 at 1:45am PDT

If there's anything you should know about me when it comes to my preferences in beauty, it's that I reach for organic and natural products the most. Not only are natural and organic products kinder to my skin, they're also kinder to the environment. I find natural and organic skincare products to work best for me too--so to discover an instant lightening skincare product that is all organic is a breathe of fresh air for me! I repeat, instant skin lightening that's all organic, possible!

At the launch, we were introduce to two products. There's the Naturawhite Organic Body Cream (Php1,670), which comes in sachets btw, and the Naturawhite Organic Face Cream (Php1,770). Both products boasts of providing an instant glow, backed by the latest skincare technology from Japan! Both products are also a blend of ingredients that target to protect, moisturize, and soften the skin, leaving it velvety, silky smooth, matte, and lighter.

Here is my face after applying a thin layer of the Naturawhite Face Cream.

Instant aura. Used the Naturawhite All-Natural Face Cream with Sunscreen. Kinda blurs the skin, insta-filter na rin!

A post shared by kumikomae (@kumikomae) on Jul 4, 2017 at 7:25pm PDT

Initial thoughts: wow, it's so pink! It's my first time to see a face cream so baby pink!!! It's with this tinge of pink that's why your face instantly gets a rosy white glow. It had a relatively thick consistency so what I did was dot very light amounts on my face so I don't have to drag skin just to spread the product. But yes, upon application, it will instantly leave a rosy white film that makes your skin appear lighter with just one application. I can imagine it working like a makeup base, especially for those who want to wear very light foundation.

A post shared by kumikomae (@kumikomae) on Jul 4, 2017 at 7:31pm PDT

On the other hand, the body cream has a powder-scented lotion-like formula. Nothing outstanding, it's just like your ordinary lotion, but what I do love about it is it gets absorbed by the skin super fast. No down-time drying products before dressing up!

For more info and to learn about the science behind this product, watch this video.

Naturawhite skincare is available from Uno Premier members. Feel free to check out their website for more products to choose from.

Belo BB Body Cream review

2017-06-21T11:13:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! Hello sunshine! For the past few days I've been giving the Belo BB Body Cream* (Php 399.75) a try and so far it's been pretty interesting. When I first heard of this product, I thought "Oh cool, this is new." but I really didn't have any clue on what to expect of the product. I don't use body makeup because fortunately, I don't have a lot of scars that I need to conceal... but if I can be flawless in a flash, why the heck not, right? Thank you Sample Room!

Belo Intensive Whitening BB Body Cream visibly conceals as it whitens. It adds buildable coverage to conceal imperfections like a BB cream would; while its intelligent mix of tone correcting formula: Kojic Acid, Tranexamic formulation, and its SPF 50 & PA++++ helps protect the skin against age-accelerating UV rays.

Omg so i finally got to try the @belo_essentials #BeloBBbodycream and to be honest at first I was thinking WEHHHHH???? But omg it really does give you instantly smooth skin. So fun!!! It also dries up real fast. Zero stickiness. Super galing. ✌️✌️✌️ Try it too. Get free samples from @sampleroomph 😘😘 #sampleroomph #flawlessinaflash

A post shared by kumikomae (@kumikomae) on Jun 19, 2017 at 5:15pm PDT

How was it?

Using the product is very easy. I sprayed generously as I would using any aerosol skincare product. Really close to home, I used it as I would use the Belo Sunblock (the spray type). The mist is very light and initially it would be a very transparent layer, but as you continue to spray on the product, you would see a film of the Belo BB Body cream on your skin. When this happened, I stopped and went on spreading the product evenly on my legs.

If you use BB cream for makeup, then you're probably expecting that the product might have a medium to heavy coverage. However, for the Belo BB Body Cream, it starts on the really light side. After I spread the product, my legs were visibly smoother. I don't have scars to cover, but I have dry flaky skin lately, light lang pero if you look closely kita talaga, and after applying the product, smoothness!

It's also not just visible smoothness. You can also feel that your skin feels silkier. Nakakagigil haplusin.

The product is only available in one shade, though. I would consider the product to be on the fair to light skin tone spectrum. If you have medium to dark skin tone, I'm not entirely sure the Belo BB Body Cream would be a fit shade. Sorry!

Bonus:

Belo Intensive Whitening BB Body Cream is also paraben-free, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist-tested. PAK! Read more reviews on SampleRoom.ph! For more information about Belo Essentials products, like them on Facebook.

Derma360 Premium Facial

2017-06-12T13:06:00.002+08:00

Hello Sunshine! So May was a stir. So many realizations, a mix of hard truths and really good news, and as I've mentioned countless times on social media and in real life, I'm just so glad May 2017 ended. It's over. Done. RIP.

Aura makeup during my cousin's 18th birthday

But before I leave May entirely behind, I want to share a few good things that happened last month. One of which is the best-ever facial I've ever tried!!!

I'm talking about the Derma360 Premium Facial. I'm saying it's the best mostly because of the immediate results I saw after my treatment. Like seriously, my face was baby butt smooth. So before anything else, I'd share with you a few or my random IG stories from that recent facial experience at Derma360 in Rockwell, Makati. Suffice it to say I didn't intend to create a video-stitch of my facial experience. If only I did, I would've taken more clips! The video is so bitin but I hope it gave you a clearer sneak as to what actually went down! It was a super-packed facial experience for me, so I figured it would be cool to take you along. Sorry I only did IG stories! For pampering facials like this, I do take an effort to keep the me-time top priority. Although... the blogger in me can't resist, hence the existence of these IG clips LOL

Derma360 Premium Facial* is quite the complete package, really. It doesn't have pricking, so if you don't like that whole painful extraction part of a facial, then you'd be alright choosing this treatment. Instead of pricking, it includes a diamond peel to remove skin impurities. After which you'd be treated to a delightful oxygen peel that also slightly peels the skin, lifting off dull skin gently, while also adding a boost of hydration. Oxygen peels are a favorite of mine because it's just so relaxing. It's literally like just having a steady stream of cold breeze on your face, only that it's targeted and with purpose!

After the oxygen peel, they'd make you choose a face mask of your liking. Because I didn't have troubled skin, they use the whitening face mask on me. While I'm not really crazy about whitening, I did have some uneven skin I had to address so it was a perfect fit. Lastly, the premium facial concluded with an LED light treatment that comes in different colors. For my skin, they used the blue LED light which had antibacterial benefits, perfect for preventing any breakouts.

The treatment lasted for about an hour, but like I said, immediately after the facial, when I touched my face, wow. My skin was so smooth. Words can't explain how smooth my skin was. Bouncy and glowing. So happy with this treatment. I recommend!

Try it out at Derma360 in Rockwell. Like Derma 360 on Facebook.

Palmolive Naturals Milky + White on SampleRoom.ph

2017-06-06T21:31:00.001+08:00

Hello Sunshine! Today I will admit to how much of a Heart Evangelista fan I am. For starters... I am so jealous of how well and expertly she can wear ALL WHITE outfits. Seriously, she rocks the all white trend like a pro--well she is a pro. (PAK NA PAK YUNG BEACH OOTD)

A post shared by Love Marie Ongpauco Escudero (@iamhearte) on May 13, 2017 at 9:03pm PDT

Tapos, she even has her own line via Happy Skin... #goals gurl

A post shared by Love Marie Ongpauco Escudero (@iamhearte) on Apr 1, 2017 at 12:56am PDT

Fans talaga ako!

So when I heard about this soap she's endorsing, I was SUPER excited. I love Palmolive Naturals products. I LOVE their hair care products, especially the PINK and the VIOLET colored shampoos and conditioners. Okay, referring to packaging color because I can't remember exactly the products... all I do remember is that the PINK one is coconut? Very hydrating and mabango!!! And the VIOLET one is very good in taming frizz...

Aside from the Palmolive haircare selections I use, I also LOVE their body wash. I love the HONEY one... but that was before I tried this Milk variant! Or better yet... visit SampleRoom.ph to get free samples while stocks last.

"As long as I look my best, I can be as beautiful as anyone." - Heart Evangelista

If like Heart, you're about embracing your natural beauty, then having naturally soft and radiant skin is something that you're probably striving for as well. It's very simple really... having good skin is a great start. For example, I haven't been wearing makeup lately, but since I take good care of my skin, I don't feel like I look like a zombie--I still feel confident enough to do my thing and face my everyday challenges, the universe rather, (confidently beautiful with a heart!) haha

Palmolive Naturals White + Milk Soap is infused with 100% milk protein extract that helps whiten the skin in just one week. While I'm not really after fairness, I do have to work a little extra in maintaining an even skin tone, so every now and then, I would use whitening products for that extra nudge.

Between the two products, it's the body wash that I enjoyed--mostly because of preference. I am a liquid soap user. I have this little joke, that liquid soap is for the body and hard soap is for the butt haha

Kidding aside, the soap smells like love! I love the hint of milky goodness whenever I use the Palmolive Naturals White + Milk soap, which I get a whiff off more via the liquid soap than the bar soap. the body soap lathers well, just the right foamy that I like, and it feels really velvety when you use it to cleanse the skin. It cleanses gently, and I don't know. I think I will just always go back to how I love the fragrance of this body wash. It's borderline relaxing... so I look forward to closing my days with it; while say other Palmolive Naturals body washes are more for starting the day (ie. the Pomegranate one, which is love also!)

For more info, visit www.facebook.com/palmolivenaturals, www.instagram.com/palmoliveph, and www.youtube.com/palmolivenaturalsph.

Burt's Bees from the Sephora Philippines Hive

2017-03-31T18:40:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! Today's a very happy day because FINALLY, I confirmed that March 31 is my best friend's birthday!!! For so many years, I've been forgetting when her birthday was... and I've been guessing-slash-greeting her three times when it's March! But this year's different, because I finally confirmed the date. Even better, I have a pretty awesome gift for her, thanks to a pretty awesome girl who helped me source the gift of all gifts.

Mia Wallace Funko Pop, you elusive little devil, you.

So aside from my best friend's birthday, I finally found the time to take my new Burts' Bees skincare out for a spin. If there's anything you should know about me, I freaking LOVE Burt's Bees. L-O-V-E

I remember when I went to Singapore last year, even if Burt's Bees skincare is available in the Philippines, I still bought me some of my favorites from Sephora! I cannot be tamed of my Burt's Bees fixation.

Speaking of Sephora, I enjoyed a little Burt's Bees skincare shopping in Sephora.ph two weeks ago! Here are the items I bought.

Feeling like a queen with my @burtsbeesph goodies. Thanks @sephoraph #sephoraph

A post shared by kumikomae (@kumikomae) on Mar 30, 2017 at 4:42pm PDT

I got the Burt's Bees Daisy White Facial Cleanser (Php 895) to try, because if there's any product category from Burt's Bees that I have to choose, it would be their facial cleansers. My all-time favorite is their cream cleanser, which I bought a back up off from Sephora Singapore. But, while shopping at Sephora Philippines website, I figured, it's time to try something new.

I also ventured trying their Anti-Blemish Purifying Daily Gel Cleanser (Php 995). It was my first time to see this product and I was absolutely sold with the "anti-blemish" part. While I'm not a huge fan of gel cleansers--and gel moisturizers--I'm looking forward to how this cleanser would help improve my skin; especially since lately, stress has been creeping up!

Of course, I couldn't resist myself a trusty little tube of eye cream (my skincare weakness), and a good promo! At the time when I bought my Burt's Bees stash, they were giving away a premium travel-sized bottle of the Intense Hydration Nourishing Facial Water (Php 1,250). This facial water is not like your ordinary toners because it really does feel like it's just water!

If you have dry skin, you should check out Burt's Bees Intense Hydration line, which I detailed here. Overall, I think with summer creeping in, my skin is well-nourished and pampered to replenish moisture taken away but the hot hot hot days to come!

Nyx Simply Vamp She Devil

2016-06-15T12:43:00.000+08:00

Hello Sunshine! While the world is going into a frenzy collecting all the possible deep and true brown lippies of the world, I want to focus on a different way (and if I may say, the original way) of going "dark" when it comes to lipstick. I'm talking about going vamp, or as Nyx Cosmetics would put it, Simply Vamp.

Here I'm wearing Nyx SV06 or She Devil*. It's a very deep dark violet shade, that truly makes my lips go pop with sensation. If you're into the whole bigger lips effect, She Devil is a great bet. I love wearing this lip when I want to go easy on the eye makeup. It gives me that bold statement, without the whole overdone look. Sometimes, I can even get away with just She Devil and brows. Consider it a brooding version of your go-to red lip classic thing look. Best part, it looks superb against sunkissed skin--which I'm sure you beach babes are still sporting after all the summer getaways last April-May offered.

What do you think? Keri?

For more information and up-to-date news from Nyx Cosmetics Philippines, like the Nyx Philippines Facebook Page.

Loreal Color Riche Collection Star Velvet Pinks

2016-06-09T18:59:00.002+08:00

Hello Sunshine! So I just received the complete range of pink lippies from the Loreal Color Riche Collection Star Velvet Pinks* series. Perfect timing because just the other day, I was actually contemplating why I don't have much pink lippies... naturally, my answer was because pinks usually look unnatural to my Filipina skin toe. It even got worse now because I am a bit tanner, from all the swimmming hihi. Anyway, don't fret. If you're curious to try pink but are scared yourself, because you're intimidated by the shade, or you're just simply tired from trying the wrong kind of pink for so long... I have a few swatches to prove that you can go and ahead, #choosepinks, and be the fresh-faced beauty that you really are!

Loreal Color Riche Collection Nymphea

Loreal Color Riche Collection Jasmine

Loreal Color Riche Collection Rose Lotus

I hope my swatches inspired you to brave the pinks. If you think it's a lipstick shade that you can't ever wear, think again. It's all about founding the shade that would suit your skin tone AND personality/mood! Naks

LovingSunshine - Beauty Blogger from the Philippines based in Singapore

Olay x Keith Haring, the skincare bundle for fearless Filipinas

Two fearless hearts beating to the same beat

Get your fearless glow with each bundle of Olay products

5 Tips For Decorating With Throw Pillows

In many living rooms, couches and daybeds are adorned with throw pillows. They add style and comfort to your family and guests whenever they lounge and chill in the living room. Add a plush quilt or blanket for extra warmth during cold, rainy days.

Use Varied Shapes and Textures

Add a Few Accent Pillows

Experiment with a One-Color Scheme

Match Your Pillows with Nature

Mix and Match Prints

Back to basics

You do you.

Communing with nature

Finding art in random places

OMG Malay food

Stay at home realizations - ways to beat anxiety and more

1. Prioritize the essentials

2. Discard what's harmful

3. Uplift people and encourage passion

4. Respect life

5. Count your blessings

Be kind especially when it's hard

Be kind

1. It all adds up

2. It doesn't hurt anyone

3. It nourishes your soul

4. It feels good

5. It inspires more kindness

How to Use the Caudalie Beauty Elixir

How to use Caudalie Beauty Elixir

1. Use as a toner to start my skincare routine

I don't always do this though. I have a regular toner that I use, but when I do use the elixir, I use it first and wait for the elixir to dry.

2. Use as a face mist to prep my skin before applying makeup

Think this is my favorite use for the Caudalie Beauty Elixir! It's such a no-brainer choice!4. Use as a sponge prep

5. Use as makeup setting spray

Another year went by and what a year we have now!

Olay Natural White Angel Glow and Mochi-Mochi Cream

Super feeling my skin after a good matcha mask. Japanese skincare wins yet again!

Olay Natural White Tone Up Angel-Glow

Olay Natural White Mochi-Mochi Night Cream

Celebrate Life's Little Wins

I started wearing sunblock

I stopped smoking

Always tired.

I'm reading again

Generation Happy Skin Perfect Brows Review

Things I love about Generation Happy Skin's Perfect Brows

SELFIE ALERT

Sign up on Shopback using my referral link to get Php100 bonus cashback.

Silkygirl Cosmetics Shimmer Duo Blusher in Sunny Glow Review

The matte shade is so perfect!

Morning freshness aka Grab Selfies!

The Shimmer Duo Blusher pairs matte and shimmer shades to illuminate your features. The matte blush can be used shading and contouring, whilst the shimmer shades can be used for highlighting. When used together, you can see an instant glow on your face at once.

Oil-free and fragrance-freeInstant GlowMatte and Shimmer shadesFormulated for Asian skin

Lunch selfie...

Overall, this blush range is very handy! For just Php 329, you get a long-lasting multi-tasker!

Silkygirl Cosmetics Shimmer Duo Blusher in Rose Petal Review

The Shimmer Duo Blusher pairs matte and shimmer shades to illuminate your features. The matte blush can be used shading and contouring, whilst the shimmer shades can be used for hightlighting. When used together, you can see an instant glow on your face at once.

Oil-free and fragrance-freeInstant GlowMatte and Shimmer shadesFormulated for Asian skin

Me after a full day's worth of work... what is s h i n y?

Would I recommend Silkygirl Cosmetics Blushes? Absolutely.

Wart Removal at Skinoveau, San Lorenzo Place

Benefit Brow Waxing

Burt's Bees Radiance Day Cream with Royal Jelly

It's been 84 years...

Some updates

Am I Making My Acne Worse by Applying MakeUp?

Hypoallergenic

Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid

Oil-based Products

“Non-comedogenic”

Bye Bye Dark Spots for Face and Body with Belo Intensive Whitening Bar

What is Belo Intensive Whitening Bar – Extra Moisture—all about?

What do you guys think?

Uno Premier Naturawhite Lightening Body and Face Cream

For more info and to learn about the science behind this product, watch this video.

Belo BB Body Cream review

How was it?

Bonus:

Think this is my favorite use for the Caudalie Beauty Elixir! It's such a no-brainer choice!
4. Use as a sponge prep

Oil-free and fragrance-free
Instant Glow
Matte and Shimmer shades
Formulated for Asian skin

Oil-free and fragrance-free
Instant Glow
Matte and Shimmer shades
Formulated for Asian skin