Beauty Loves

Beauty Scouts: Pearlnecklacecenter.com

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:17:00 +0000

Akoya pearl necklace. I heart this. Click on image to enlarge.

Even though my birthstone is pearl (people! Take note! My birthday's in June!), I have never really fancy wearing pearls. Somehow and I have no idea from where this feeling stems from, pearls remind me of grandmothers and old lace.

But then the vintage wave seems to have taken the Malaysian fashion world by storm, and the best accessories are none other than pearls. Pair a vintage black dress with blood red lips and a strand of snow white pearls and you would be magically transform into Marilyn Monroe or Audrey Hepburn. Who can forget Breakfast At Tiffany's?

At a dilemma on where to get your own pearls? Do not worry as I have a website for you. Pearlnecklacecenter.com offers you a wide selection of freshwater pearl necklaces, and you can even choose different colours for your pearls. Fancy something classic? Go for the white ones. Want to be sweet and girlish? Choose the pinks or lavenders. Or go mysterious and exotic with the greys and blacks.

My pearl bracelet

Each necklace has a 14k gold clasp to complement the whole look. The pearls are all uniform in size and has few visible flaws. I should know this as I have a pearl bracelet from them. And if you have luxurious in mind, you can always try their Akoya Pearl Necklaces, saltwater pearls gathered straight from Japan.

If you feel that a freshwater pearl necklace might be a little too ostentatious for you, you could always start small and try out their pearl bracelets first, like what I had did. You have a choice of either triple-, double- or single- strand in either gold or silver depending on your budget. You can also make a great gift for your girl friends with the beautiful and elegant single pearl earrings. Made up of triple A grade pearls, the earrings exude class and elegance and should be a hit with your girls.

A close up

Each item bought from them comes in their own cases and shipping is also free, no matter where you are. You can also check out their "Under $100" section for a selection of pearl necklaces, bracelets and earrings that are under 100 USD.

Did I mention free shipping? Did I mention affordable? Did I mention one year warranty? Payment is also easy breezy as they accept Visa, Master, American Express and even Paypal. So when you have the time, go to the website and browse around. Maybe something might catch your fancy.

Or maybe my elegant hand might.

Comparision: NARS Orgasm and Super Orgasm

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 09:50:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge.

Honestly speaking, I don't find much difference between them. One may be a bit peachier and the other pinker. As for the glitters in Super Orgasm, you can't really get them on your face since brushes do not pick up the glitters well. Unless you use your fingers. Which I may well do.

Peachier. Pinker. Please do click on the images to fully appreciate the minute difference.

DO NOT COMMENT ON MY PORES!! *&%W@#!@*&!!

One thing I do not like about Super Orgasm is that it is too loosely pressed. Each time I open it there are shards flying everywhere, what a waste. But I would still choose SO over O as I like SUPER. And cause it's newer :)

Beauty Loves and Swatch: NARS Blush in Super Orgasm and Dolce Vita

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 12:55:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge. Super Orgasm with golden glitters and shards. See the loose particles on top left

Yes, playing hooky again. Don't have much time on hands, cause most of it is spent on sleeping and napping and dozing.

I have not been using this 2 blush much, but since I've already reviewed NARS blush before, I'll just give you and update of the colours.

Super Orgasm on top, Orgasm at bottom

To me, Super Orgasm is a pinker version of Orgasm. It is also actually a matte peach pink as base with multitudes of golden glitters and shards, instead of the shimmers contained in Orgasm which turned it into a iridescent peachy pink. Therefore, Super Orgasm is much more loosely pressed, a little like Angelika, seeing as they both have the same weight and Angelika has silver glitters. Again like Angelika, you have to pat your brush on the surface of the blush, not swipe it back and forth. You'll likely get a shower of powders if you do the latter due to it being loosely pressed.

Orgasm on left, Super Orgasm on right

I do not have a "on-face" shot as I can't seem to quite capture the difference of the 2. However when swiped on hand side by side, it is easy to see. Look at the glitters and reflects!

Dancing Queen, young and sweeeeeet~

Ahem, sorry.

As for Dolce Vita, NARS describe it as a dusty rose and I have to agree. It is a very dark shade of rose, very warm, very Fall-ish. It is also quite matte and mature looking and I actually like it very much (I usually love shimmers with my blush).

Bobbi Brown Mauve on top, Dolce Vita at bottom

Mauve on left, Dolce Vita on right

The only colour that I own that comes close to a match to Dolce Vita is the Mauve blush in the Bobbi Brown Mauve Face Palette. When I say close, I mean 60% close. Mauve blush is lighter and with shimmers. Dolce Vita is darker and matte. Both give you slightly tanned rosy cheeks, like below.

I'll probably keep both of them, but my next acquisition will probably either lean towards coral and tangerine or golden and bronzed. Keep on guessing!

Oh, Happy Day!

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:54:00 +0000

Sephora Day that is.

No points for guessing what's in the bag, as I only collect one true love(s).

Bet some of you ladies are salivating huh? These are the newest additions!! I was happy that I could pick up these 2 (previously when I wanted to get Orgasm it was sold out in Sephora store in Boulder, Colorado. My Orgasm was 'induced' by Beetrice.) Don't ask me why I need Super Orgasm when I have Orgasm or I shall puke at you, intentionally.

On the left is Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer in Light if you can't see clearly and Benetint is for my sister.

I love shopping, even if it is someone else who's picking it up for me.

Beauty Loves: Shimmering Nudes Palette

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 10:35:00 +0000

I have no idea how those working bloggers actually juggle work and blog. By the time I get home from work, all I want to do is to sit and relax. Can't take any pictures too as daylight is getting on to moonlight. It is slowly dawning on me that I have to work extra hard on weekends and get everything ready to be released on weekdays :(

Anyway, I talked about this palette earlier and mentioned that I might or might not be getting it. Sad to say, when I check it out on the counter, willpower lost. It is so sleek and pretty and the colours gorgeously pigmented though neutral.

Click on images to enlarge

I have always loved neutral as it looks good on everyone. Granted it photographs horribly as it is usually washed out compared to vibrant colours but in real life, you can achieve warmth and natural with a neutral eye makeup. And it is good for work too.

Texture wise, each eye shadow is smooth and fine. It goes on without a hitch and like I said before, quite pigmented. I especially love the metallic eye shadows as it imparts a gorgeous sheen, very metallic like. Only 2 are matte and unlike those matte eyeshadow from my previous Bobbi Brown face palettes, it is not chalky and horrible. Me love all!

Nude Glow Metallic inner, Nude Spice Metallic crease, Naked highlight

You might think that some colours look like doubles of each other but there are actually slight difference in colours and also finishes.

The palette is made of metal and not plastic and it closes with an audible click. The mirror is as wide as the palette and I think it is a great addition. The brush included is a double-ended brush with eyeshadow at one end and an eyeliner at the other. When I compared it with a full sized short handle, there are only a little difference in terms of size and fullness. The brush bristles are still as soft as the original.

Full size on left, palette brush on right

To tell you the truth, I don't really need this palette (come on, how many can one actually use?) but I justified me buying it as I foresee I will mostly go nude for work. Looking presentable during work is important, right? Work is important, right? Therefore nude palette is important too, right?

RIGHT????

Price: RM 190
Net Weight: 1.1 gramme each for eye shadow
Suitable for: Everyone
Dependency: Brush, Sponge Applicators, Fingers
Available at: Bobbi Brown counters
Would I buy this again: Maybe next year's Nude collection! :)

Beauty Swatch: ELF Candy Shop Lip Tins in Berry Pop

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 09:37:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge

And so while I just like this product, I'm starting to fall in love with the colour Cherry Bomb (full review). Thinking there was another darker coloured tin left I haven't tried and I wanted to gift my sister with Cherry Bomb, I snatched them both up.

Tiny glitters, if you look closely enough

While I am a little disappointed that the colour was a bit on the sheer side, I can't stop sniffing it as it smells like berries. Definitely an improvement from Cherry Bomb, which smells like mocha instead of cherry.

Berry Pop

Once applied, the colour looks like my lips but better and deeper and it also adds shine and slickness.

My fav Cherry Bomb

I use Cherry Bomb when I want chili redness but dare not rock full red lips.

Beauty's Future: Bobbi Brown Holiday 2008 Collection

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:07:00 +0000

You might know now that I simply adore Bobbi Brown. Somehow her stuff just gets to me, though they are mostly neutrals and her packaging is simply sleek black. Other brands may be rich and opulent but either their price tag scares me away or their price tag scares me away. :D

Bobbi Brown's Holiday collection should be on counters starting November and yes, some things just caught my eye. Mostly probably I won't even get half of what I want (pity the money bag) but perhaps someone may wanna surprise me with some Christmas goodies.

Some pictures to feast on:

Lip and Eye palette. Look at the gorgeous metallic colours, just perfect for the holiday season. I want!

Lip gloss trio

Velvet plum eye palette

Tube tints set

Moon rock long-wear eye palette. Consist of 2 cream shadows and 2 long-wear gel liner. I want!

Night sky long-wear eye palette. Consist of 2 cream shadows and 2 long-wear gel liner. I want!

Copper diamond cosmetic bag with brushes. I want!

Copper diamond beauty kit. Cosmetics sold separately.

Copper diamond small beauty trunk. Cosmetics sold separately.

I got all these from bobbibrowncosmetics.com so I'm not really sure whether everything will be available here in Malaysia. Hopefully those I want will be here :D

Beauty Test: GNC Women's Ultra Nourish-Hair Part 3

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:58:00 +0000

That was really a long break. First it was stress (hence blue nails) and then it was the flu (drowsy during the day and night). But I'm feeling better now so hopefully updates will be more regular (but I'm starting work next week?).

This lil test update might have been 2 weeks late but better late than never right? So test result at week 8 is as follows:

Hair: Yup, there are definitely more fuzz at the crown of my hair. It looks irritating as it is short and messy but I guess I should be thankful that new hair is growing out. According to Dar, my hair looks fuller now than before, and I think I have to agree with him. I still have that sparse top which is obvious under direct sun or light but it otherwise looks ok during normal circumstances. Hair length is growing at normal speed, shame to say.

Annoying fuzzy wuzzy

Skin: As usual.

Nails: I am so happy with this result. My nails are stronger than ever and I can tell because only 1 finger splintered in the course of 2 months and it was only 2 times. A total of 2 times in 8 weeks! That's like a major personal record as before, my nails were breaking like nobody's business even in doing little stuff like fighting stubborn zippers.

Eyelashes: They are much fuller than before and definitely longer. I am also trying out Bioglo's Eyelash & Eyebrow Enhancer so I hope the double boost will pack a whammer soon!

On a side note, I think my armpit hair is growing twice as fast now. Ew!!!!!

Part 1 with list of ingredients
Part 2 at Week 3

Beauty Swatch: Elianto Nail Colour in 28 Novy

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 05:08:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge.

No updates. Feeling so blue, and not just on Monday. Nails blue, to match blue mood.

Found out what caused my bubbles though. Applied base and colour thinly and evenly but put on too thick a top coat to avoid smearing colour and staining brush tip. Bad move.

Less is more and in this case, less top coat = shiny nails.

Beauty Loves: Elianto Nail Colour

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 08:35:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge. My polish army. Get it? Polish?! Oh never mind.

I seldom paint my nails, and when I do, only on my toes. My theory is that since my feet are so far away from ground level, people won't notice even if I did a bad job. Finger nails however are a different case; we may unconsciously wave them around people's faces.

I love using dark colours on my toe nails, again, they help in disguising any bad work and somehow they are such a pretty contrast to my pale feet. A narcissist should never lose out on any chance to be narcissistic, I say.

There! I always get bubbles! I think it's time to chuck my top coat.

Since I only keep them on for a week or so, I do not think it is necessary to buy expensive nail colours that almost cost their weight in gold. Why should I pay RM50 or more for high-end branded nail colours? It's not as if they have crushed diamonds mix into the rainbow liquids or that they are less harmful to our nails.

Elianto's nail colours have different textures. Some are matte and creamy, some are shimmery and sheer, while some are glittery and in-your-face. Some colours require 2 or more coats for the colours to be vibrant while some only require 1 coat. They do not dry out easily in the bottle and a bottle last you a long time. Up to date I have never finished a bottle, and I only threw some away because I got bored with the colour and they refuse to finish up by themselves.

The colours do chip easily if used on their own however that can be remedied by using a better base and top coat like Sally Hansen's or Lord forbid, O.P.I.

I always love visiting the Elianto's counter because it seems like I see different, new colours every time I go there. If I am not mistaken, Elianto actually has a wide range of colours and they routinely swap them in and out at different times. Each time is a surprise and a pain (sometimes) when you don't see what you want but you know they have it. So near yet so far...

And before I forget, if you really love MAC's Cult of Cherry's Illegal Purple nail colour and don't wanna cough too much up, I found a perfect dupe. It is the same colour I have on in this post, a blackened eggplant/cherry. Code number 39 and code name Dark Purple.

Price: RM 5
Net Weight: 14ml
Suitable for: Everyone
Dependency: Good base and top coat
Available at: Elianto counters
Would I buy this again: YES

Beauty Loves: MAC Cult of Cherry Tempting Eye Quad

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 05:53:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge

I have never really been that into MAC stuff, maybe because their bright colours truly scare the bejeebers out of me. However their Cult of Cherry collection has some really lovely fall colours that are interesting and still everyday.

At first I wanted to get the Spiced Chocolate quad, but then I saw this Tempting Eye quad that has a delightful chartreuse. However I am still a-wanting the Sweet Chestnut shade in the SC quad so if anyone has depotted theirs and would like to get rid of it, you know where to throw it to ya? (I will pay for it la :)) MAC has a few eyeshadow finishes but since I don't really own a lot of them, I will just review those eyeshadow in these quads.

Next to Nothing is just like it's name, looks like nothing at all. You mainly use this as a highlight because it is a frosty vanilla shade. No surprise, it's finish is Frost.

Sharp is a lovely chartreuse or yellow lime. It's a wonderful, 'popping' colour that will suit most people. The texture is really smooth with low shimmers. It's finish is Satin.

Tempting is a cool bronze that goes well with Sharp. I find it a little more gritty than the others because it has larger shimmers. It's finish is Lustre.

Dark Edge is a cool chocolate grey that goes on quite matte and smooth. To me, it is best as a liner shade. It's finish is Satin.

I use these shadows with a base and I haven't road tested them dry so I have no idea on their lasting power. No fragrance at all, and their packaging is just a simple black plastic back with a transparent top cover. Nothing inspiring or luxurious or beautiful, just plain practical.

All in all, this quad is a lovely collection of colours that compliments each other and also suitable to go with any other shades in your collection. I loves it lots, not to mention that it is so bloody cheap. Keep in mind that each eyeshadow pan is as big as a MAC single! Now it makes me want to buy the Spiced Chocolate quad because I want 2 of its colours and its cheap and therefore justifiable! Stop me!

Price: RM 138
Net Weight: 0.20 oz / 6g
Suitable for: Everyone
Dependency: Brush, Sponge Applicators, Fingers
Available at: MAC counters, online
Would I buy this again: Will try some other quads

Beauty Experiment: Pressing Pigments

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:48:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge

Here I go again, another experiment over and done with successfully. This time around you'll need:

Isopropyl Alcohol 70% (Dar got this for me at a pharmacy, the pharmacist decanted some into a smaller bottle and charged him RM 2. Oh well. )
Mixing spatula
Metal pans
Pigments (I used MAC, you can try others as well, like those from mineral makeups)
Syringe
Coins (not in picture)
Cloth (not in picture)

Step 1: Using a spatula, scoop up some pigment and fill up the metal pan. Stop before it overflows.

Step 2: Fill up the syringe will the alcohol and inject some onto the metal pan (not your pets please) until the pigments are fully saturated.

Step 3: Using the spatula, swirl the wet pigments around until they form a muddy paste. Refer to image

Step 4: Refil the metal pan with more dry pigments and repeat step 2, 3 and 4 until the metal pan is almost full.

Step 5: Lightly drop the metal pan from a height of 5cm onto a flat surface. Repeat a couple of times or until the wet pigment's surface is as smooth as possible. Let dry in room temperature for a few hours (this is my way, you can nuke it or blow dry it) until alcohol smell has dissipated. Take note the pigment will have sunken a bit, don't attempt to refill it ya.

Step 6: Cover the metal pan with a textured cloth and put a coin on top of it while ensuring the coin is fully inserted into pan. Drop your heaviest book on it and leave for a few hours. (Is this step necessary? I think it is better to compact it more as well as leave a textured surface to the pressed pigment for aesthetic reasons)

Step 7: Enjoy! Now it is no longer in danger of being spilled or blown away while the quality and texture is not sacrificed.

It's almost all filled up! That was quick! Again, metal pan palette is from CoastalScents because sadly, Malaysia seems to not have these things. If you own lots of MAC eyeshadows and you wanna depot them into pans, you can get this palette too as it is the same pan size as MAC's (not sure if you notice it, but one of the pan is MAC Neutral Pink from the N Collection). I'll show you how to depot MAC eyeshadow next time, as soon as I get some new ones :)

Beauty Experiment: Remixing Dry Lip Colours

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 05:47:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge

Don't know if you remembered, but I did mentioned before that the lip colours in Bobbi Brown's palettes are dry and crappy. So I did a little experiment today that thankfully went very well.

Some tools that you will need:

Mixing spatulas
Metal spoon
Favourite (or least favourite) lip balm, mine is from MyLipStuff.com
Metal pan or sample jar (my metal pans are from CoastalScents, they come in a palette, as you shall see in the last picture)
Lighter or candle

Step 1: Scrap off the lip colour from the palette with a spatula. You can also do it to your lipstick tubes.

Step 2: Deposit all the lip colour onto the metal spoon.

Step 3: Scrap off some lip balm.

Step 4: Deposit the balm onto the metal spoon.

Step 5: Apply heat to the metal spoon using a lighter or candle flame about 3cm away from the bottom of the spoon.

All melted.

Step 6: Pour your concoction onto the metal pan or sample jar immediately.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Now my Bobbi Brown lip colours are all soft as butter and they smell slightly like cinnamon. As you can see, I still have so many empty metal pans which I intend to fill up with pressed pigments. So excited! :D

Haul: Loreal Sale

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 06:21:00 +0000

Click on images to enlarge

Just a lil somethings I bought last week.

Lancome Uv Expert DNA Shield SPF 30 PA++ (this is for mom)
Lancome Blanc Expert NeuroWhite X3 Ultimate Whitening Purifying Foam (I have been using this since forever, together with Lancome Blanc Expert NeuroWhite X3 Ultimate Brightening Hydrating Emulsion
Shu Uemura Eye Correcting Pro Concealer in Mauve (I don't have much dark circles, so I just brighten the under eye area. Since my Dior Skinflash has finished and I haven't bought a new one yet, just thought of trying this)
Shu Uemura Pressed Eye Shadow N in P Spring Breeze (2007 Spring)
Shu Uemura Pressed Eye Shadow N in IR Earth Brown (2007 Spring, I got the Harmonious Orange Blush by the way)
Shu Uemura Shimer Eye Liner in 01 Black (now this I gotta try, I think this is fairly new, manufacturing date is Jan 2008)

And so, that's all.

Beauty's Future: Bobbi Brown Shimmering Nudes Palette

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 03:28:00 +0000

I was devastated when I've couldn't get my grubby hands on the LE Stonewashed Nudes Palette. Thank the lucky stars that Ms Brown heard my prayers.

I am so definitely getting this. I will die getting this. I WILL die if I don't get this.

But,I don't know, judging from the image, it looks like there aren't as much variety in terms of shade as the previous palette (I loved the look of the gray one last time). But I love that there are metallic and shimmer washes included. Guess I'll just have to test it out at the counter first.

Shimmering Nudes Palette (RM190)

Nude Beach Metallic
Nude Mist Shimmer Wash
Naked
Nude Glow Metallic
Mica Shimmer Wash
Nude Spice Metallic
Espresso

According to the booklet, this palette will come out mid-September in Malaysia. Prepare a date then with your nearest Bobbi Brown counter. For more information please check out the shades of the Shimmering Nudes Palette.

Madness: Loreal Luxury Products Division Warehouse Sales

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 05:24:00 +0000

This is the second luxury products warehouse sale of the year organized by Loreal, and I have to say there is definitely a major improvement from the April sales in terms of crowd control. BUT! Some of the price has increased! What is this? If it keeps increasing each sales, in the future it seems we would have to pay full retail price at a warehouse sales!

It started at 10am today, but I have already reached there by 9am for fear of waiting 2, 3 hours under the hot sun like on April. I need not have worried because it seems like there are less people this time around, and they have 4 lines instead of 1, and there is no way that latecomers can cut queue because the space allocated for each queue were just only enough. Each batch is given 30 mins to shop before they shoo you out. I got in at 10am and was out by 10.30. I have to say this was the easiest time I have being in a warehouse sales.

Cashiers were efficient and quick, staff were pleasantly cordial (of course it could be due to the fact that it was still early and so they were still in a good mood), and I didn't even have much trouble at Shu Uemura corner. In fact, I zoomed straightaway to Shu's table as soon as I got in to avoid the crowd that was sure to assemble when the people have figured out where it was (right at the end of the room actually).

Now to the pricing. I browsed through Lancome's stuff and some product prices have went up by RM 5 - 10 while others maintained their prices from previous sales. Shu's went up by a lot. Previously both eyeshadow singles and blush were going for RM 50 for 2 but this time around, it increased to RM60 and RM70 respectively. A bit of a disappointment actually. Most of the blush were matte and since I was collecting NARS, I didn't bother getting it. There were quite a lot of shades for eyeshadow and I even got my eye correcting concealer (been wanting to get this for so long).

Most of the ladies were very polite and did not shove around but due to the fact that the aisles were not very wide, a bit of accidental 'touch touch' is still expected. When I got out at 10.30am, the outside queue was surprisingly still short. It had not even reached the outer limits of the corridor. Has the people come to their senses and decided to tighten their purse strings?

Would I come again next year? If my stocks are low, why not. If you want to save a bit and shave money of the retail price, a warehouse sales is the place to go. Provided if you don't mind waiting in line. And if you check the manufacturing date properly. And if you don't mind being in a crowded place. And waking up early.

Beauty Test: GNC Women's Ultra Nourish-Hair Part 2

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 10:39:00 +0000

Today marks the last day of Week 3. Up until now, I have only forgotten to take the pill 2 times (counting this afternoon!) out of 21 days times 2, not a bad record if I do say so. I did not expect much changes to my body after only a few weeks of consumption, indeed reviews said it had taken the ladies months to realize some positive change.

Hair: I don't see any indication of hair growth in terms of new hair growing out. I did notice some short fuzz around the forehead hairline which was not so prominent last time (or are my eyes playing tricks?). It will be much easier to judge hair growth in terms of length now since I'd chopped off a few inches last week. Positive change: My hair sheds less now!!! I no longer sprout gigantic hair balls in the shower! Only mini ones.

Skin: No changes either. However my skin has always been alright without any overt outbreaks.

Nails: Now this is better. I'm experiencing less breakage though not the growth spurt the others are reporting. Previously my nails were very fond of chipping or splintering by themselves.

Eyelashes: I *think* they are a bit longer than they used to be, though still sparse.

Armpit and Leg Hair:You must be groaning now. However, nope! No changes, thank goodness.

My sister checked out a GNC outlet here in Malaysia and found out Ultra Nourish-Hair is not available here, though there is something named Crowning Glory. I do not think they are the same, mainly because hers are green while mine is white. Ingredients list are different too, while only the smell and size is the same (smelly for the former, huge for the latter).

Check back again at Week 6.

Part 1 with list of ingredients
Part 3 (Week 8)

Beauty Loves & Swatch: Bobbi Brown Pink Face Palette

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:40:00 +0000

Click on images to enlarge

I promise this is the last one. This came from the Spring 2006 Collection and it was my first palette. It traveled with me to my hometown multiples times and it also toured New Zealand South Island. As you can see from the picture, the lip colours are hardly touched because as I mentioned before, the lippies in BB palettes are usually dry and crappy (except for the glosses). Also you can see dirt and powder can easily adhere to their surface, so this increased their crappiness.

L-R Bone, Baby Pink, Chocolate shadows. Pink blush. Clear Pink Lip Sheer, Warm Pink Lip Colour, Sandwash Beige Lip Colour

I intend to scrap off the lip colour's surface, scrap everything out from the pan, melt it together with lip balm and then deposit them into tubs. I didn't do it before as I haven't hit pan yet on the other products, and honestly, I did not have the heart to mutilate my little baby. However since I have 2 other palettes now...

Bobbi Brown's blush is easily one of my favourite after the gel liner. They are pigmented, the last long, and the singles are really generous in size. I haven't tried any of the newer shimmer blush yet, but their matte colours are good.

Before

After. Used all shadows, blush and Warm Pink lip colour

With a little MAC shadow in Neutral Pink in outer V

BB's matte eyeshadows are only good for highlighting and eyelining in my opinion, as demonstrated by Bone and Chocolate of this palettes. I rather prefer their Shimmer Wash eye shadows, their texture is smooth and shimmery and more pigmented.

So what's my verdict on Bobbi Brown's palette?

I think that everyone should get one, if only it is just for travel. You have everything you need in a palette, so you just need to pop in a tube of mascara and curler and brushes and you're done. The quality of the products are good and the price is justifiable. They also travel well and won't shattered even if there is air turbulence haha.

For those beginners, this palette is also a good place to start :)

Bobbi Brown Mauve Face Palette
Bobbi Brown Violet Face Palette

Beauty Loves & Swatch: Bobbi Brown Violet Face Palette

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 09:33:00 +0000

Click on images to enlarge.

Ah well, thought I'll just go on with the roll. This is from the Spring 2007 collection I believe.

L-R Golden Beige Shimmer Lip Gloss, Pink Lily Lip Gloss, Golden Violet Shimmer Lip Gloss. Ivory, Orchid Shimmer, Mahagony shadows. Baby Violet blush.

I like the blush and the lip glosses in this palette, however the Orchid Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow is a little too cool and pale for me while Ivory is chalky.

Both Golden Beige and Golden Violet lip gloss has gold shimmers in it, as well as the Orchid eyeshadow. Baby Violet blush looks more violet-y in real life, though it look like a pink in the image. I really prefer lip glosses in palettes, because honestly, the lip colours in most BB palette are sooooooo dry.

Before

After. Used all shadows, blush and Golden Beige Lip Gloss

I added in Ultra Violet Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow in the last picture in the crease, it's a really 'popping' colour (I almost typed 'pooping').

Ahhhh! I hate my eye shape! Always can't see any colour no matter what I put on.

Bobbi Brown Mauve Face Palette

For a more in-depth review
Bobbi Brown Pink Face Palette

Beauty Loves & Swatch: Bobbi Brown Mauve Face Palette

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 08:38:00 +0000

Click on images to enlarge. Sorry for the lone font :)

I finished my internship a couple of weeks back so I haven't been putting on makeup or testing anything. Somehow it feels g-r-e-a-t lazing around the house doing nothing, but I know I can't keep on like this. Promise. Besides, I need more money to buy new stuff!

L-R Navajo, Vintage, Chocolate Mauve shadows. Mauve blush. Dusty Mauve Creamy Lip Colour, Mauve Lip Sheer, Vintage Lip Colour

So I tested out my Mauve palette today and seriously, IT IS GORGEOUS. The colours are nice and warm and I believe it should suit most people. To me, it is the new nude but with a little more edge and flavour. I think it is a great colour for fall (if like, we HAVE a fall) as the colours bring into mind browning leaves and hot chocolate for cold weather.

Before

After. Used all shadows, blush and Vintage lip colour

More :)

It is suitable for day as it is, and for night, just add a thicker liner, dash on another shimmering light shadow in the middle of the eyeball and/or smoke it up at the outer edges.

Bobbi Brown Violet Face Palette

For a more in-depth review
Bobbi Brown Pink Face Palette

Beauty Loves: Bobbi Brown Fall 2008: Mauve Collection

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 10:30:00 +0000

My wallet just keened in despair. And I know I'm a little late by only reporting it now, though I'm curious as to why there is no hype for this collection in Malaysia, though the colours are so much more beautiful than most of the previous BB collections.

Mauve Face Palette (RM 190)

Navajo Eye Shadow
Vintage Eye Shadow
Chocolate Mauve Eye Shadow
Mauve Blush
Mauve Lip Sheer
Vintage Mauve Lip Color
Dusty Mauve Creamy Lip Color

Lip Glosses (RM 68)

Black Pearl Shimmer
Iced Mauve Shimmer
Mauve

Lip Colour (RM 68?)

Heather Mauve
Pale Mauve

Gel Liner (RM 65)

Black Mauve Shimmer

Mini Brush Set (not sure, forgot to ask. Should be round RM 180 or so)

Blush Brush
Shadow Brush
Liner Brush

And I told you my wallet wailed out loud right? This is why.

Click on image to enlarge

Colours are truer to life. Though you can't see the shimmers in the eyeshadow like in the second image

Black Pearl Shimmer. A complex blend of purple, grey and taupe

I choose these 2 because it seems like both the Black Mauve Shimmer Gel Liner and Iced Mauve Shimmer Lip Gloss will be part of the permanent line while these are limited edition. I can get them later (or not at all). Don't quote me as I'm not too sure, SA was adamant that they are all LE.

Psst. One SA told me that this will be the last Bobbi Brown palette which includes eyeshadow, blush and lip colours...

Oh did I mentioned she also said Mauve Face Palette is sold out in KL? Again, don't quote me!

Beauty Loves: Dariya Hair/Fringe Pad

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:25:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge

Well, OBVIOUSLY the title is just my crude translation. Can you imagine having a product with that name? Its like, even my hair is having monthlies and PMS. I first saw this on the Taiwan beauty show Ladies First. They were not actually introducing the clip-ons but I saw Kevin stuck it onto the model's fringe and voila! The hair stay put.

It originally came from Japan and was discovered by one of the hair stylist who is a regular guest star on the show. And I have to say it was worth my effort trying to locate this little tool and waiting patiently for it to come to Malaysia. I ordered this through someone who imported it back from Taiwan.

Each pack contains 2 pieces of the pads. As you can see from the image, one side of the pad is actually Velcro-like that grabs onto the hair easily. Since it has a rather big surface, 2 pads is more than sufficient in keeping your fringe out of your face. To use it, simply swipe your fringe back on one side, then slide the pads along your hair, like a hair pad. Press down slightly to increase the hold. Repeat on the other side if you desire and there you have it, hair that stays put for when your wash your face, put on makeup, even for when you know you will work up a sweat.

It is available in 3 colours: Black, Baby Blue and Pink. I like black because it is rather unnoticeable so even if I put it on and walk out to my front yard, nobody will stare like I'd grown a pink patch of hair overnight. Though it is plastic, it is quite flexible and you can mold it following the shape of your head. I also do not recommend you applying heat to it, since I have a feeling it could melt.

After you remove it when you are done, a simple brushing or flicking with your fingers and your fringe will be back in place. In fact I think it helps in introducing a decent curve if you usually have a limp fringe.

Eek! Spot the vulnerable bald spot!

And the amazing thing is, it's hold is incredible. As long as you do not make drastic movements, it won't budge an inch. Don't believe me? Watch the small clip and ignore the crazy lady.

Taken with camera phone. Sorry for the horizontal/vertical mix up and stupid expression

I noticed in a forum where ladies say you can buy this in Sasa in Singapore for SGD 6.90. And if you can read mandarin, you can try buying from this PayEasy site. By the way, I got mine for RM 15. A small price to pay for something useful and forever. As long as my cats don't chew it up.

Beauty Likes and Swatch: ELF Candy Shop Lip Tins

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 03:56:00 +0000

Click on image to enlarge

By now some of you should know that I really dislike my lips, because I think they are lopsided and uninviting. But somehow or another, this did not seem to have cure me of that insatiable desire to buy lipsticks or lip glosses, as long as their shade is pretty.

However, the reason I got these was because their tin containers are so cute! Just look at that vintage packaging, with the sliding tin covers and cute printing. And it didn't help that the container is surprisingly big (which equals more product, yeah!) for the price you pay for it.

Cherry Bomb on left, Frosting Fanatic on right

Colour-wise, the gloss is only sheerly pigmented. Though they look gorgeously pigmented in the tins, you'll only get a slight wash of colours on the lips. Good for everyday use, but not making any statement by themselves. The two shades I got is Frosting Fanatic and Cherry Bomb. FF is a light peach/tan/nude with soft gold shimmers while Cherry Bomb is a solid strawberry red shade.

Texture-wise, the glosses are rather sticky. I used a lip brush to apply the gloss but I think half the fun of using these fellows is that you can use your fingers to swirl around and then apply. But as with any other glosses and balms, a windy day will give you a headache and a lipful of stuck hair.

Frosting Fanatic

Scent-wise, I think ELF really do need to update their web-site. Cherry Bomb is supposed to smell like cherry but all I detect is strong coffee and chocolate (mocha?). Frosting Fanatic smells like caramel and coconut. Both of them taste slightly sweet so if you hate sweet fragrance and taste, these are definitely not your thang.

The tins came sealed in plastic but I think during the transition, the heat must have caused a tiny amount of gloss to melt and escape the from tins. When I unsealed it, the whole tin felt sticky and I had to wipe them down. This raises the question on whether they are actually travel friendly. Imagine them melting in your bag and dripping down the seams :)

Cherry Bomb

All in all, they aren't fantastic, just merely good. However with that price tag, it is surely something that you just have to try out and then only decide whether to trash it and say goodbye. For me, these two are enough for a lifetime.

Price: USD 1.00
Net Weight: 0.39 oz / 11 g
Suitable for: Everyone
Dependency: Fingers pr Brush
Available at: ELF site
Would I buy this again: ENOUGH, AGAIN

Beauty Test: GNC Women's Ultra Nourish-Hair

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:54:00 +0000

My hair has always been fine, limp and wimpy. As a way to introduce volume to her(yeah, I'm a sicko. From here forthwith I shall speak of my hair as a separate and as a singular feminine entity), she and I went through courses of chemical treatment to curl and primp her.

Ok, enough of that.

For the past few months, my hair has been shedding at an alarming rate. Suddenly one day, I woke up and told myself that either I find a way to fix it, or I will have to shave bald to prevent my head from becoming bald naturally first. I have seen ladies with serious hair thinning problems and I seriously do not want to join in that group. Poor me went scouring the webbie looking for cures and preventions and finally settled with fighting the "disease" from within. Some other external cures are definitely hair-raising.

Ultra Nourish-Hair is a daily dietary supplement for nourishing hair. Its star ingredient is actually biotin, part of the vitamin B complex family and is an important component for the growth of hair, skin and nails. I bought this through a middle woman from drugstore.com as she is entitled to 20% off US retail price. I read many positive reviews left by consumers who said that they really saw good results after a few weeks.

Look at those huge buggers. They smell funky too, just like multivits.

Since today marks my first day of consumption, I can't tell you whether it is a good product or not yet. Guess you'll have to check back in a month :) By the way, you have to take this twice a day, preferably after meals.

Supplement Facts

Vitamin A - 1000 IU

Vitamin C - 60 mg

Vitamin E - 30 IU

Thiamin(Vitamin B-1) - 1.5 mg

Riboflavin(Vitamin B-2) - 1.7 mg

Niacin - 20 mg

Vitamin B-6 - 4 mg

Folic Acid - 200 mcg

Vitamin B-12 - 6 mcg

Biotin - 1200 mcg

Patothenic Acid - 20 mg

Iodine - 50 mcg

Magnesium - 40 mg

Zinc - 30 mg

Copper - 2 mg

Proprietary Amino Acid Complex - 800 mg

Methylsulfonyl-methane - 500 mg

Choline - 250 mcg

Boron - 3 mg

Silica - 1 mg

Inositol - 50 mcg

Other ingredients: Cellulose, Titanium dioxide, Vegetable Acetoglycerides, Milk.

P.S. I went through local pharmacies looking for anything that provides a high amount of biotin and unfortunately, there is none. Our only hope is to take vitamin B complex which contains a small amount of biotin among others, or eat more liver, egg yolk, milk, and yeast. I think you can also get GNC here in Malaysia and Singapore though I am not sure where. Readers, if you know where, please leave comments ya?

EDIT: Earlier I asked a Singaporean friend to help me check find this but he told me later that although they do have GNC available, this product is only available in the US. Go figure.

Check out Part 2 (Week 3)
Check out Part 3 (Week 8)

First Contact: What's In My Makeup Bag

jcjsjc@gmail.com (Jessie) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:19:00 +0000

Would you believe that the first time it occurred to me to luge stuff around in a makeup bag was only the beginning of this year? Seems like the me before did not seem to really care what I have with me (or without).

Also, I am one of those ladies who NEVER EVER seem to remember to bring a tissue pack out.

I just steal more from KFC.

Sorry for the blur image. Camera phone under fluorescent lighting

Makeup bag from Stila
Opti-Free multi-purpose solution (for the contact lens)
Bobbi Brown Shimmer Lip Tint SPF 15 in Brown Sugar Shimmer
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Blushed
Panty Liner
Nail Clipper (sooooo important to me, wanted to bring one up to the airplace once)
Extra mirror (2 sided, good for spying what's behind you!)
My Lip Stuff Tube Balm in Cinnamon Roll
Nivea Lip Care Essential
Clean & Clear Oil Control Film
Rosken Dry Skin Cream
Urban Decay De-Slick Mattifying Powder
Cotton buds
F By Ferragamo sample spray (not shown)

Not really much huh? But they already weigh a substantial amount. What's in yours?

Spill-alls by other ladies:
Beautyholics Anonymous
Pretty Beautiful