J'adore Rougit

Welcoming the Year of the Water Dragon with NYX, Chanel, and Revlon!

2012-01-23T16:10:00.001+08:00

Happy Year of the Dragon, everyone! Here's a quick post for today. I think I am on a lippy phase once again. I recently purchased a couple of lip products and here they are. I decided to post lip swatches as well to give you an idea on how they look like on the lips.

NYX Color Lip Balm in Sukriya, Chanel Rouge Allure in Charisma, and
Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Tutti Frutti

My favorite of the bunch is Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Tutti Frutti! I love the color on me as it looks pretty natural. I have a couple of gripes with the product itself but I'll tell you about it on an individual review.

What lippies have you purchased lately?

Have a wonderful week, everyone! :)

Cheers,

Product Review: Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Blissful

2012-01-15T20:08:00.003+08:00

Hi everyone! Another post for today. I'm making the most of the weekend as I'll be busy again tomorrow starting with payroll and then for the next few months. Anyway, here's the review of the blush I have been using for the past month. It's one of those blushes that were raved all over the net by bloggers and YouTubers but I guess my EQ is getting better since it took me a while to finally purchase this blush. Here is the review then.

Tarte Cosmetics says:

For those who want an alternative blush to tarte's award-winning gel and cream cheek stains, we're now offering Amazonian clay 12-hour blush in 8 shades. Inspired by our best-selling cheek and lip stains, shades range from soft pink (dollface) to deep berry (flush). Used alone or with our best-selling natural cheek stains, this blush is sure to give you that natural glow.

To know more about these blushes, check out the Tarte website.

What I like:

I like the straight on packaging. Nothing too artsy and nothing too glamorous. The colour of the compact gives you an idea how the blush inside looks. It also doesn't hurt that it has a mirror for quick touch ups.
The shade Blissful is described by Tarte as warm peach. It's close but I would say it's a warm coral peach with a hint of pink. It is matte but it is definitely not flat or a boring matte. It adds warmth on the cheeks while adding a faint glow that is simply pretty. On me, it looks like a natural flush.
The texture is great. It goes on smooth, it is finely milled and silky. Certainly of high quality.
Unscented. Nothing that gives me a headache whenever I use it.
I love that it is animal cruelty-free.
The blush is pigmented. You only need to swipe your blush brush on the pan once and you get enough color on the cheeks. I think this is not the case with lighter shades but you definitely need a light hand with this particular shade.
You get 5.6g of product that is packed with pigment, and with a shelf life of 12 months.
No skin irritation or allergic reactions with this blush.

What I don't like:

It claims to have a staying power of 12 hours. While I wasn't hoping for it to last half a day on me, the fact that others raved about how it stayed for 6-8 hours on them gave me high hopes for this blush. It lasts only 2 hours tops on me. And that is me staying in an air-conditioned room for the whole period.
This isn't exactly cheap for $25. I got mine for Php 1200 + Php 50 shipping (roughly $29) online. I was expecting a bit more for the tag price.
Not locally available. You'd have to purchase this from online re-sellers or have someone purchase it for you abroad.

Overall rating: 3.5/5 While the staying power is such a let down for me, the shade and how it looks naturally glowing on me won me over. I don't mind touching up anyway as long as it's not every minute of my life that I have to.

Will I buy again? No. I guess I'm part of the minority who isn't gaga over these blushes and repurchase. I'm sure I can find a better-lasting blush that is equally gorgeous on my cheeks.

Interesting Facts:

These solar-baked blushes are infused with Amazonian Clay, nature's most perfect ingredient. These nutrient rich
and skin-nourishing Amazonian clay blushes restore harmony for a flawless finish that lasts all day.

The soft blush is great for all skin types:

Oily skin: Amazonian clay minimizes oil in and around pores to balance skin and keep product in place
Dry skin: Amazonian clay hydrates skin naturally to restore moisture so your blush wears better & longer
Dull skin: Amazonian clay improves the appearance of skin clarity and skin texture
Combination skin: Amazonian clay is completely intuitive; gives skin an overall smooth & even appearance

Skinvigorating™ ingredients

Amazonian Clay: nature’s most perfect ingredient providing total skin balance
beeswax: as an alternative to synthetic waxes, natural beeswax is used as a waterproofing agent, a protective barrier between the skin and the environment and it has also been know to naturally stimulate collagen production which plumps the skin and decreases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
vitamin C: antioxidant that fights free radical damage and prevents oxidative stress and premature signs of aging, while brightening skin
vitamin E: natural preservative that also acts as an anti-inflammatory emollient and protects against free radical damage

Skinvigorating™ benefits

formulated without mineral oil
formulated without paraben
formulated without phthalates
cruelty free
formulated without sodium lauryl sulfate
formulated without synthetic fragrance

Makeup: Pore Serum Gel, Kanebo Coffret D'Or Beauty Lasting Liquid UV,
Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer, Kryolan Anti Shine Powder,
Skinfood Choco Powder Eyebrow Wood Pencil, Laura Mercier neutral eye
shadows from Colour Classics Face Palette, Sleek Noir Eyeshadow from Bad
Girl Palette as eye liner, Kiss Me Volume & Curl Mascara, Tarte Amazonian
Clay Blush in Blissful, Korres Lip Butter Glaze in Pomegranate, MAC Sheen
Supreme Lipstick in Ultra Darling

Have you tried any of these Amazonian Clay Blushes? How do you find it?

Happy Sunday, super awesome peeps! :)

Cheers,

Non-Beauty Related Purchases - Novelty Stuff

2012-01-15T13:14:00.001+08:00

I've always featured cosmetic and beauty-related hauls ever since I started blogging. But this one's different. First thing is that I never actually did any holiday shopping - no trips to Rustan's the drove me crazy and left my wallet bleeding. I haven't been buying a lot of cosmetics lately. One or two purchases for the past couple of months and I'm already a happy girl. Anyway, I somehow went a little bit crazy buying novelty items and a couple of accessories and books. I'm sharing them on this post. Here they are..

Accessories from the Eastwood Bazaar and eBay.ph

Stickers, planners, memo pads, post its, a trinket with postcards and stickers

Books by John Sandford. I want to complete his Prey series. I'm hooked!

That's pretty much everything. Have a wonderful week ahead, everyone! :)

Have you purchased non-beauty related stuff lately?

Cheers,

Product Review: MAC Sheen Supreme Lipstick in Ultra Darling

2012-01-08T21:12:00.003+08:00

It has been over a year since I last used a MAC lipstick. I decided I was so over the MAC hype and that there is more to makeup than the brand, especially with lipsticks and blushes. Blame it on Japanese and high end brands for my ditching MAC. It wasn't only until I got to try the Sheen Supreme lipsticks that I wanted something from MAC again. It was love at first swatch with Ultra Darling though I had my eyes set on Full Speed and Korean Candy at that time. I've been using it everyday for almost a week now so I guess that's a fair enough time to give it a review.

Sheen Supreme Lipsticks according to MAC

Combining the colour impact of a Lipstick with the shine sheen of a Lipglass, Sheen Supreme creates the perfect hybrid - with no compromise. Lightweight, non-sticky, slick to apply and comfortable to wear. This is a must-have for all those who have craved this kind of fusion.

Ultra Darling is described as a mid-tone yellow pink.

What I like:

The shade is a very pretty watermelon pink with just the right hint of coral in it. It also has the right amount of sheen to make the lips look healthy and glossy.
I love the formula. As I have mentioned earlier, I have given up on MAC lipsticks since I had my love affair with a few high end ones but I can confidently say that MAC earned a second chance because of this Sheen Supreme Lipstick line. It's creamy, glides smoothly, and is very comfortable enough to wear on the lips. It feels like I'm wearing my Dior Addict lipstick. It is definitely a hybrid of a lipstick and a lip gloss with a touch of a glossy lip balm, if I may add that.
It is non-drying. I have used it a couple of times without a lip balm underneath but it never dried out my lips.
I love how the color instantly brightens up my face. It's kinda bright on my lips as compared to my usual lip color choices but I can't help but love this. I can definitely see those with fair and medium skin tones rocking this shade.
No irritation on my lips.
Lasts fairly well for 2-3 hours (without drinking/eating) but definitely not as long lasting as matte lipsticks because of its glossy formula.

What I don't like:

The packaging/tube. Not a huge fan of it. I like the regular bullet-looking one better. Plus it's kinda hard to open.
Maybe pricey for Php 1000/tube but I'm loving the formula so I really don't mind the price tag. MAC is crazily raising their prices to compete with high end ones, I guess.

Overall rating: 4.75/5 Well, ain't this lipstick the Ultra Darling for getting this rating? :)

Will I buy again? Expect to see another shade from the Sheen Supreme Lipstick line in a month or so which is Full Speed. Unless I get over my coral-pink affinity, I'd probably get an everyday nude shade instead which is Bare Again. :)

Swatch

On me

Have you tried any MAC Supreme Sheen Lipsticks? If you haven't, what shades would you like to try?

Have a great week ahead of you, everyone! :)

Cheers,

The Hit List 2011

2011-12-31T22:57:00.002+08:00

Happy New Year, super awesome peeps! Are you bidding farewell to 2011 and welcoming the year of the water dragon 2012 with a bang? Well, I hope not with "bangs" that are risky and dangerous. Anyway, I thought of reviving 2009's Best and Worst post but decided against it as I wanted to just remember the good stuff that can be carried on to the next year, thus, making this The Hit List 2011 instead. As the title suggests, I will be featuring products that tremendously wow'ed me enough to be included on the list. Here goes...

Well, what better way than to start with makeup? Agree? :P

Korres Lip Butter in Pomegranate - when I found out that my fave MAC Tinted Lip Conditioner in Gentle Coral was discontinued (darn it, MAC!), I went on a search for a substitute good when it comes to tinted lip balms and lo and behold - I found it! I love the light coral-pink hue it gives my lips as it keeps 'em supple and moisturized. One pot lasted for about half a year with daily usage so this product is definitely a keeper.

Chanel Rouge Allure in Comedia - this lipstick started my relationship with high end lipsticks. Well, I've never really bought much but since then, I became somewhat snobbish when it comes to lipstick brands that I would rather buy one piece of a high end lipstick than have various pieces with substandard qualities. Well, Japanese brands would be exempted from that snobbish attitude. Bad, eh?

Guerlain Kiss Kiss Stick Gloss in Corail des Mers - have I mentioned before that I dig coral-pinks? I guess I have. This works like a very very tinted lip balm for me. It is non-drying, applies smoothly, and has a very nice shine to it. I wish it was fragrance-free, though. But then Guerlain isn't Guerlain without such a scent, right?

Shu Uemura Face Architect Smoothing Fluid Foundation - I can definitely say that this is one of my two HG foundations. Oh brother. This foundation has been replaced by the Smooth Fit one. What am I gonna do without you? *sob*

YSL Matt Touch Oil Free Foundation - my other HG foundation. Have I told you how luxurious applying this on the face feels? It's such a pleasure every time I use this as it feels wonderful on the skin plus it also keeps my face oil free for a few hours. It also doesn't hurt that it has SPF10.

Kanebo Freshel White C Mineral BB Cream UV - I have a love-hate relationship with BB creams that's why I have let go of all those that I purchased. But not this one. This works like foundation but with SPF and whatever benefits it claims to have. Well, as long as it brightens my face and doesn't make me look like a greasy Oompa Loompa, I'm officially cool with it.

Maybelline Dream Matte Powder - have I declared my love for this pressed powder? If I haven't, let me tell you that I absobloodylutely love this product that I am almost done with my third pan. This is THE touch up powder for me, unless of course I find something better that doesn't hurt the wallet.

Kanebo Coffret D'Or Beauty Lasting Pact UV - before I had an affinity with liquid foundations, I was a loyal and devout user of powder foundations. I have tried several brands but I am mighty glad to say that I have found my HG. Nothing compares to how soft, smooth, silky, and velvety my skin feels whenever I use this powder. Sadly though, rumor has it that this has been discontinued. I can't believe that both my HG powder and liquid foundations have been discontinued. Talk about a streak of bad luck?

Shu Uemura Glow Ons in P Pink 30 and M Pink 30 - If I were forced to own just two blushes in my whole life and nothing else, I'd outright choose these two Glow Ons. Even though their names have changed (and their formulation too), I'd still choose them in a heart beat as no other blush has given me the kind of glow these can give.

Giorgio Armani Sheer Blush in 10 - I seriously have no clue as to how I am going to explain how and why I was wow'ed by this blush but I really was. What it is about this blush, I can't tell. Because you just have to try it and see for yourself. *wink*

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Blush in Pink Coral - if I need a perk me up blush that'd give me a healthy flush, I'd go for this blush. The shimmers look atrocious in the pan but are almost unnoticeable once on the cheeks. It's gorgeous.

Laura Mercier Secret Concealer - I rely on this when my under eyes are not THAT bad and doesn't need a lot of concealing. It does not dry out the skin on that area while it effectively conceals any discoloration there is.

Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer - whoever thought that such an inexpensive drugstore concealer can hide my dark circles when they are that bad? Well, I never did but it does work like a charm concealing while brightening my under eye area.

Kiss Me Heroine Make Impact Frame and Curl Mascara - I have never ever raved about a single mascara in my whole life before I found this tube. Lengthens and adds volume while holding the curls are what this mascara can do. No smudging as well unless I rub my eyes really really hard. Well, it's a pain to remove if you don't have an eye makeup remover but that's the price you pay for something that won't make you look like a raccoon. Oh, I always get asked if I am wearing false eyelashes every time I use this mascara. ;)

Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara - before there was Kiss Me, this is the mascara I always rely on if I want fuller lashes. Well, it's also a pain to remove but not as much as the other mascara that has captured my heart.

Sigma F80 flat top brush - a liquid and cream foundation's best friend as well as a BB cream's. Applies foundation like a breeze that feels natural and light.

Marionnaud Premium N3 Slanted Blusher Brush - not the softest brush there is but it works. It definitely does. I love using this on powder blushes, pigmented or sheer they may be as it deposits just the right amount of color on the cheeks. Inexpensive yet sleek-looking too.

Done with makeup. Time for skin care products.

Mary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover - removes stubborn waterproof mascaras easily without stinging the eye. Oil-free? I don't think so but it works and I'm not complaining.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser - my skin has never been better since I started using this. My HG cleanser, if that helps.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel - perfect for my combination-oily skin which keeps it hydrated. A tad pricey but works very well in tandem with Cetaphil.

Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief - now this really WOW'ed me being the first ever Clinique skin care product that did not cause me to break out. And I love how it keeps my skin hydrated and less oily.

Origins Modern Friction Nature's Gentle Dermabrasion Face Scrub - I like how the beads are gentle enough for sensitive skin and how non-abrasive it is. It effectively exfoliates my skin without causing any allergic reaction or breaking me out. Skin feels smooth, supple, and soft after using this.

Well, that sums up The Hit List for 2011. There were a lot of products that got the thumbs up the entire year but these are the ones that really stood out. Now have you made your list of products that wow'ed you? I'd love to know yours.

Happy 2012, everyone! May you all have a better year ahead of you. 2011 wasn't exactly the best year for me but things are falling into place so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that 2012 will be a better one for me. Uh, though I am welcoming it with cold, cough, and flu. Oh yeah!

Cheers,

Product Review: Estee Lauder Double Wear Light Stay in Place Makeup

2011-12-30T23:07:00.001+08:00

In my book, Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay in Place Makeup is the most long lasting foundation I've ever had and the one that does not budge at all. If you check out my review last year, I thought that it already felt light, but that was before I met Japanese liquid foundations which feels unbelievably light on the skin. That was when I realized how ELDW felt too heavy, at least for me, so I gave it up. It was when I started reading raves about the lighter version of it which is the Estee Lauder Double Wear Light that I became curious with that brand's foundations. Some said it was like tinted moisturizer while some claimed that it has coverage but feels so much lighter than the original. When I was able to score a tube of this foundation online, I was so excited that I started wearing it straight for days. Anyway, here is my review of this product.

Estee Lauder says:

BENEFITS
15-hour wear. Controls oil
COVERAGE
Sheer to Medium; SPF 10
FINISH
Natural

PRODUCT DETAILS
15-hour wear, light as air-long-wear makeup is now lightweight makeup.

Makeup That Keeps Up
Fresh, natural, comfortable.
Goes on sheer, leaves skin free to breathe all day.
Controls oil.
Resists smudging and won't "melt" off through heat and humidity.

For a look that stays vibrant and fresh whether it's a workday, a workout or a weekend. Smooth it on once and don't think twice about it.

FORMULA FACTS
Oil-free
Dermatologist-tested
Non-acnegenic
Won't clog pores

What I like:

It definitely does feel lighter than the regular Double Wear Stay in Place Makeup.
I like the sleek tube packaging. It is much more sanitary and hygienic than the bottled, regular ones.
It stays on my face for at least 5 hours.
Gives a natural finish and definitely not flat matte.
No white cast on photos.
Has SPF 10. Though it isn't enough, I'm glad Estee Lauder made an effort to add sunscreen to this foundation.
Locally available at Estee Lauder counters at Rustan's.

What I don't like:

While it feels lighter than the regular Double Wear Stay in Place foundation, it still feels heavy and mask-like for me. It is nowhere near like a tinted moisturizer. Please.
It oxidizes so bad that I look like a lighter version of Oompa Loompa.
It clogs my pores and dries out my skin really bad. Well, it does control oil.
Even the lightest shade, Intensity 1.0, has pink tones in it. Not yellow enough for me.
Kinda pricey for Php 1900/tube (roughly $45).

Overall rating: 2.5/5

Will I buy again? Definitely not. Sorry Estee Lauder, this product was a disappointment for me though I tried to like it. I really tried.

Swatch

Swatches: YSL Matt Tough 2, ELDW Light 1.0, Shu FA 974

Have you tried this foundation? How do you find it?

Happy 2012, everyone! :)

Cheers,

Product Review: Paul & Joe Lipstick in 070 Chantilly

2011-12-29T11:50:00.004+08:00

Happy Holidays, guys! I've still been pretty busy these past couple of weeks that this post has been sitting on my drafts for that period. I'm glad, though, that I'm finally able to post this just because I called in sick today as I've been sick since last Christmas. Bummer. Anyway, here is my review for the Paul & Joe Lipstick in 070 Chantilly which I have acquired a couple of months ago.

The product up close.

What I like:

The packaging's design is cute. I am not usually fan of such designs but I like the combination of pink and purple on this one.
The shade is a lovely pale peach-pink with a very slight hint of blue tones in it.
Applies sheer but can be built up for the intensity of the colour to show up more.
Glossy and applies smoothly.
Pretty moisturizing for a lipstick. It somewhat reminds me of a tinted lip balm in a tube.
Does not cause any allergic reaction or irritation on my lips.

What I don't like:

If applied more than thrice, it makes me look mighty pale and sick.
Staying power is poor since it is very sheer and glossy.
I don't dig the packaging. It looks cheaply made if you ask me. It is made of sturdy cardboard. Sturdy but still, it's cardboard.
Pretty expensive for a lipstick that has poor staying power for Php 1300/tube. For the price, I can add a hundred bucks and go for a Dior lipstick instead.
Paul & Joe lipsticks are locally available but since this is part of a collection or a limited edition lipstick, it might no longer be available.

Overall rating: 2.5/5 While it is very pretty, it isn't something I reach for and it just sits pretty on my traincase after I used it just a few times.

Will I buy again? No.

Arm swatch

Lip swatch

Have you tried this lipstick or any other lipstick from Paul & Joe?

Have a happy year-ender, everyone! :)

Cheers,

Back with a Product Review: Shu Uemura Aya Takano Reindeer Kiss xxxx Palette

2011-12-18T13:16:00.002+08:00

Hey guys! I hope you're all doing fab this holiday season. It has been a month and a half since I have last updated this blog. Busy isn't quite enough to describe how my previous weeks were plus dealing with personal stuff that are great, actually, but I'm glad that I finally had the time to make a post again. I was supposed to go malling with my family for a little Christmas shopping but since I barely even stay home due to work, I decided to skip going out and stay home instead for a little R&R. Rock & Roll? Nah. Just Rest & Rest or perhaps Rest & Read or Review & Read or Review & Rest. Whichever of the four my Sunday leads to, I'll make the most out of it. Anyway, here's a review of the cutest makeup piece in my stash and that is the Shu Uemura Aya Takano Reindeer Kiss xxxx Palette. I received this as a birthday gift last August. If I'm not mistaken, this was part of Shu Uemura's Holiday Collection from 2010. So without further ado, I present to you the Reindeer Kiss Palette.

Oh jeez, I don't know how to start this review. I'm searching for the right words. It has been that long, huh. I'm still giving this a shot even though I think I lost my blogging mojo.

What I like:

The package is unbelievably cute! It's such a swell to see this inside my traincase. Even my niece, who loves looking at and playing with my make up always grabs this and says, "Look oh, so cute". And that is simply adorable. Even though I have no idea how it would feel to kiss a reindeer, it's still uber cute for me as there is something quite "magical" about how this palette was presented and packaged.
The well-coordinated colours are so pretty to look at. I kept myself from using it for a week or so but when I received and used my "Tessa Prieto-ish lashes a couple of months ago for my Fairytopia FOTD, I knew this palette would be perfect for those lashes.
The K2 silver eyeshadow is so creamy and smooth that it's so easy to blend and applies wonderfully on the lids.
Texture is still wonderful even though it is now made in Korea. There is a slight difference on the quality but it's not something that would keep me from buying Shu makeup again.
K4 or the brown cream color is an eyeliner though I prefer using it on my brows but it still works as a liner.
K5 or the gold cream highlighter is gorgeous! Pretty on the cheekbones and brow bones and cupid's bow.
The K6 glow on is a medium pink blush with a bit of blue tones in it. There is something about it that gives a certain glow on the cheeks.
It also does not hurt that I get a full-sized eyeshadow and blush in this palette too!
Still locally available at some Shu Uemura counters.

What I don't like:

K1 and K3 are not as pigmented and opaque as the K2 silver eyeshadow.
Creams and powders should never ever be together in one palette. Powders get in the cream products and when that happens, it's not usually a pretty sight.
Pretty expensive for a palette as this costs Php 4000. But if you are a sucker for packaging and is into collecting such things, or a Shu Uemura devout, then I think this would prove as something you must absobloodylutely have.

Overall rating: 4.25/5

Will I buy again? I would like to say I would but I honestly won't. Even though I love it and it is gorgeous and the packaging is outrageously cute, these are not enough reasons for me to purchase it. With 4k, I can purchase a customized palette from Shu with my choice of colors. Super glad I got this as a gift from a very nice lad though who has proven his uncanny gift-giving skill. :)

The palette up-close - K1, K2, K3, K4

Swatches

I have a lot of reviews coming up. And hopefully, I can continue blogging again. Have a happy and blessed Sunday, everyone! :)

Cheers,

P.S. Thanks to all who left comments and emailed me asking how I am and if everything's alright. It warmed my heart, promise.

Coming up: Purbasari Lulur Scrub

Product Review: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

2011-11-02T21:16:00.007+08:00

As I have mentioned a lot of times on my previous posts, water-based or gel moisturizers work best for my combination-oily skin. While I fell in love with Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief, I have been cheating on it with another moisturizer that pretty much does the same for me and that is the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel. I luckily won this jar from The Beauty Bin's giveaway a few months ago and I thought it would be best to wait for a few months before finally giving it a review. When it comes to skin care products, I think a day or two or even a week won't be enough to test it, thus, the long wait. Anyway, here is my review now.

What I like:

I like how "watery" the color of the packaging is. The jar is also pretty sturdy as I've dropped it a few times and it never cracked or shattered.
This is a non-greasy and lightweight moisturizer. It definitely doesn't make my skin oilier than it is.
It gets easily absorbed by the skin.
It doesn't just moisturize my skin - it hydrates it.
Texture is a bit more runny than Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief and a bit more gel-like as compared to Celeteque Facial Moisturizer. It's just right - not too thick and not too runny or watery either.
It leaves a semi-matte finish on the skin which makes it a good makeup base, helping my primer and/or foundation glide smoothly.
The scent initially worried me as it is quite strong but I'm glad that the fragrance in it did not cause any allergic reaction. No break outs either.
A little goes a long way. A pea-sized amount is enough to cover my entire face and neck.
I apply this at night and I wake up to a smoother, softer, and more supple skin.
Works super awesome with Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. These two made my skin so much better.
Since it keeps my skin balanced, it no longer oils up as much as it used to.
The manufacture and expiry date are visible on the jar.
Locally available at major department stores and drugstores nationwide.

What I don't like:

The scent could've been a little less strong or they can simply do away with it. I always apply it in front of a fan so the fragrance would be gone in just a matter of seconds.
Since the product is in a jar, you'll definitely need a spatula or transfer it to an airless pump bottle for more hygienic ways to use it.
Does not relieve itch just like the Clinique one does for me but I'm still cool with it as a moisturizer.

Overall rating: 4/5 If the scent isn't that strong, it certainly would've gotten a higher rating from me.

Will I buy again? Yes! It works just like Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief (I know! I gotta stop comparing!) as a moisturizer for me and it is cheaper by a few hundreds so I guess this is a cheaper alternative for me. I will repurchase as long as it doesn't stop working for me and if budget permits.

A closer look

Manufacture and Expiry dates

Have you tried this moisturizer? How do you find it?

Happy November, everyone! :)

Cheers,

A Pre-Halloween Story

2011-10-29T20:30:00.001+08:00

Halloween is almost here, everyone! I hope you're all doing great. It has been a week since I've last made a post. Anyway, as the title suggests, I will be telling a story, or maybe two, that I experienced just this week. But before I do, I'd like to share the makeup I did on one of the participants for our group's Halloween presentation at work. That was the first time I did such makeup on someone so please bear with my being a newbie.

Ate M played the role of a mother whose very own child killed her by burning her alive, thus, the makeup. She won the best in costume and makeup for women! And the guy who played the role of her husband, whose makeup I also did with stitches and all, also won the same category for men. Yey!

Practicing on myself. I got one of the committee members fooled for thinking this was real. Said she had goosebumps when she saw my hand and kept asking what happened to me.

This, on the other hand, looked so fake but I still managed to fool a couple more to think that this was real. XD

Anyway, on to the stories.

The first one happened last Thursday night while we were rehearsing for the first and last time for our presentation. The story is about a girl who played with the Ouija board but I won't tell the rest of the story. Anyway, part of the story was calling on to spirits on a makeshift Ouija board. Although I was getting uncomfortable about it (even though I wrote the story and the script), we went on with the scene. Then a maintenance man (who was part of our group since their department is also under the HR) suddenly told me that there are a few spirits walking towards us. I remember someone telling me that that man's third eye is open. I shrugged it off at first until I felt something cold on my shoulders and my head started getting numb. I moved away and sat somewhere else. As Mang L and I were talking about it, I felt something really cold that I shivered for a while as I was having goosebumps. He then told me that there is a little boy.

Fast forward to us being taken home by the company driver. I felt weird and uneasy the whole time which was kinda strange. The maintenance man was at the back of the van and he suddenly transferred beside me and sort of tried to amuse me and made me laugh. When I was finally home, I went straight to the rest room but I got out as fast as I can for some reason. Before that, I was limping because my foot is injured and bandaged but I totally ignored the pain and moved really quick.

I went to my room and my mom was there playing on my laptop and we were talking about random stuff when my aunt knocked and went inside, almost in tears. When asked why, she started telling us that there are a lot of "people" walking around in her room and one was even touching her and caressing her arm. She already had a lot of encounters with spirits before but she said that was the first time she ever felt that scared. So she asked if she can sleep in my room (which my mom also did) and I decided to get the slanted chair in her room so she can sleep on it. The lights were off and I couldn't go inside so I just slowly reached for the light switch and switched it on. That room has never felt so creepy before. My mom didn't want me to go in alone so she decided to go with me. I felt my hair raising, goosebumps all over me. Same thing happened to my mom. It felt unusually cold in that room. When we were back in my room, my aunt told me that the only time she felt the spirits was when she heard me going up the stairs. Then we slept.

The following day, I was at work and I told Mang L, the man from the night before, about it, he only said "Sabi ko na nga ba eh" (I knew it). He knew that a few spirits came with me on our house. Anyway, we rehearsed at 6pm on the stage after work. The same thing happened, calling on the spirits on the Ouija board and the same eerie feeling was once again there. I went to the bathroom alone and as I was zipping my pants, a female voice whispered something in my ear, which once again made me walk fast, ignoring my injury again and told Mang L about it. He just said that it's one of those that came the night before.

When I had to do their makeup, I had to wash my hands every once in a while and each time I went to the bathroom, I keep glancing on the mirror because it felt like someone was there, watching me. I shrugged it off again. When everyone was gone, Mang L remained sitting on a chair. I asked why he doesn't want to leave me alone and he simply smiled. I then asked if someone was following me around, and he said yes. I asked if it was a man, and he agreed again. When I asked if that man wanted to harm me, he said no. He said that man was just amused with me so he decided to follow me around.

After our presentation, I was sitting on a chair while watching other groups present when I once again had goosebumps and the numb feeling on my head. After about half an hour, Mang L told me that the man was gone and it was now an old man who stood behind me but he eventually went away. Good thing is I went home without any companions. :D

Anyway, I hope there won't be any more "stories" after these two for now as I don't think I can manage to walk as fast as I did before. :D

On a lighter note, I got a couple more goodies.

Wedge shoes

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Majolica Majorca Skin Lingerie Pore Cover
Celeteque DermoScience Hydration Make Up Remover Cleansing Facial Wipes
L'Oreal TR5 Daily Repair Treatment

And more books! :P

Have you had any "stories" lately?

Happy Halloween, everyone! :)

Cheers,

P.S. The stories I shared are based on my real experience as I don't think such things should be made up.

Random Goodies

2011-10-22T20:30:00.004+08:00

Hola! I hope you're all having a fantastic weekend. Mine was still pretty busy because I was working earlier today and this week has been stressful. Stressful is the understatement of the year! Anyway, I think this week was still pretty good because of the goodies I received and purchased and for this quick post, I'm sharing some of them. Please do note that I am not bragging or anything. I haven't done a goodies post for a couple of months now, I think, so I decided to do one tonight. And it was the easiest thing to post because my brain's too tired (and so I am) to do a review or do an EOTD/FOTD. I badly need to recharge. :D Well, here are the goodies. These aren't much but they were enough to cheer me up after a few long and tiring days.

1. Estee Lauder Double Wear Light Stay in Place Makeup Intensity 1.0
2. Kiss Me Heroine Make Impact Frame and Curl Mascara
3. Kanebo Kate Eyebrow Gel in BR-3
4. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Double Face Perfector in 710 Light

5. Tony Moly Berry Berry Magic Lip Tint in Strawberry
6. Tony Moly Cherry Pink tint

7. Bath & Body Works Pocketbac in Fresh Lemon
8. Bath & Body Works Pocketbac in Island Margarita

Goodies from Genson:
9. Vitacreme B12 Regenerative Cream
10. Purederm Exfoliating Foot Mask
11. Purbasari Lulur Scrub (I read a review where the blogger claimed that she likes this better than Asian Secrets Lulur Scrub. Now I'm curious.)
12. Nanomed Finale Whitening Cream

That's pretty much all. I no longer included the shampoos and conditioners and Cetaphil. Reviews coming up.

How about you? Any goodies recently? :P

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Cheers,

Product Review: Kiehl's Scented Lip Balm 1 in Coconut

2011-10-17T21:38:00.001+08:00

I love lip balms and they are products I cannot leave the house without. I have to have a lip balm with me wherever I go as my lips tend to get dry easily so keeping them moisturized is a must. Although I love tinted ones, I wear non-tinted or regular lip balms before hitting the sack and I alternate between three regular ones at the moment - Mentholatum Lip Ice Lemon, Vaseline Lip Therapy, and Kiehl's Lip Balm 1. Tonight, I am reviewing the one from Kiehl's.

Product Description taken from Kiehl's website:

Protects against the elements and helps relieves chapped or cracked lips. Enriched with Cotton Seed Oil and contains Octinoxate, a mild sunscreen of SPF 4.

Key Ingredients:
1. KAH –tuhn seed OY-il
Cotton seed oil is a pale yellow, odorless liquid expressed from various varieties of cotton. It is widely used in skin care as a formula softener.

2. OCT-in-OX-sate
Octinoxate, also known as Octylmethoxycinnamate or Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, is a popular chemical sunscreen ingredient. An excellent UVB ray absorber, it helps prevent skin from burning in the sun.

Product Details:
Temporarily protects and helps relieve chapped or cracked lips. Helps protect lips from the drying effects of wind and cold weather. Apply liberally to lips and allow an excess of the balm to be absorbed.

Now available in 6 scents: Coconut, Vanilla, Mango, Pear, Cranberry, and Mint

What I like:
- It comes in a tube, thus, making it more hygienic. Not that lip products in jars is a big issue for me. It just makes reapplication easier.
- It can double as a lip gloss as it is glossy on its own.
- It has SPF which is something that is not always present on lip balms.
- When I use this at night, my lips does not dry or crack while I am asleep.
- This tube contains 15mL of product which definitely isn't bad at all.
- Locally available at Kiehl's in Greenbelt. Feel free to let me know if there are other branches.

What I don't like:
- When you're using it as a lip gloss, make sure that you're applying it sparingly as it can get really greasy which is pretty nasty as your lips will look like you just ate something drenched in oil.
- Not as moisturizing as the other lip balms I have tried so it has become my least favorite. Yes, it keeps my lips from getting dry at night but that's just about it.
- It sits on top of the lips which bothers me so I don't wear this during daytime.
- Pretty expensive for a lip balm so I'd rather invest in a nice tinted lip balm. :)
- The scent bothers me. It reminds me so much of virgin coconut oil and I am not a fan of coconuts.
- The hole of the tube is too big so you get way more than what you need if you don't squeeze too carefully.

Overall rating: 2/5 There really isn't anything remarkable or spectacular about this lip balm.

Will I buy again? No. I'm glad I didn't have to purchase this tube for myself; I would've otherwise kicked myself if I did. I'm sticking to Mentholatum for regular lip balms.

Have you tried lip balms from Kiehl's? How do you find 'em?

Happy Monday, everyone!

Cheers,

P.S. I'd like to thank Sugarpaopao for giving me this tube of lip balm. I initially liked it a lot but later on found out that it just doesn't work for me. Sorry, dear. :(

Reader Question: Do you use drugstore makeup?

2011-10-15T19:28:00.004+08:00

Happy Saturday, everyone! Earlier today, I received an email from Freedback with a question from a reader, Mitch, asking if I use drugstore makeup. The answer is "Yes, I do use drugstore makeup." That being said, I thought of sharing the drugstore products that I use. :)

1. Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara
2. Revlon Brow Fantasy in Brunette
3. Natasha Glam & Glide Lip Gloss in Better Bare
4. ELF Eyebrow Treat & Tame in Ash
5. Skinfood Choco Powder Eyebrow Wood Pencil
6. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Double Face Perfector
7. NYC Lip Slider in Sugar Angel
8. Maybelline Dream Matte Powder in Light 4-5 Cream
9. Wet n Wild ColorIcon Single Eyeshadow in Envy
10. Maybelline Eye Studio Gel Liner in Black
11. Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer in Cream
12. Palladio Herbal Lip Slix in Rosewood
13. PureDerm 3 in 1 Beauty Magic BB Cream
14. Maybelline The Magnum Volume Express Mascara
15. Maybelline The Colossal Volume Express Mascara
16. Sleek Makeup iDivine Eyeshadow Palette in Bad Girl
17. ELF Mineral Eyeshadow Primer

And if Tony Moly and Skinfood are indeed drugstore brands in Korea, I am including these three products:

1. Skinfood Salmon Dark Circle Powder
2. Tony Moly Cherry Pink tint
3. Toy Moly Berry Berry Magic Lip Tint in Strawberry
* Skinfood Choco Powder Eyebrow Wood Pencil no longer included as it has already been included on the first list.*

That's all, dearies! I hope this has answered Mitch's question. :)

How about you? Do you also use drugstore brands?

Have a fantabulous weekend, everyone! :)

Cheers,

EOTD/FOTD: UAAP Series - DLSU

2011-10-11T20:24:00.003+08:00

I finally had the time to blog on a week night! Yey! Anyway, here's the third installment on my UAAP Series and this time, it's DLSU. I've always loved the sound of Animo La Salle! I don't think it'll sound great with any other school - Animo USTE! Animo Ateneo! Animo UP! Animo San Beda (okay, may naligaw na taga-NCAA), Animo Assumption! Animo FEU! and so on and so forth but you get the drift, right? :P For a random story like I did with the first two, here it is. I didn't like it when a couple of Lasallians broke my heart that I swore I'll never date someone from that school again, ever! I think I made that swear a few times but I always end up eating my words. Maybe I'm cursed. Haha! It may just be pure coincidence but then again, maybe it's a curse. :D Oh well, here's the EOTD/FOTD.

First off, I am aware of the two pimples on my right brow area. I gotta hand it to MUFE Mat Velvet + for giving me three pimples just by wearing it once. Hell yeah! :P

Of course, I used the same ol' Sleek Bad Girl Palette, like it's the only one I own. I used Innocence on the inner corners, brow bones, and inner lower lash lines. Applied Intoxicated on the the outer part, crease, and outer lower lash lines. I used Envy to line my upper lash lines, applied a coat of mascara and that's it!

My half-FOTD

Products I used:
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
- Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer
- Kanebo Coffret D'Or Beauty Lasting Pact
- Skinfood Choco Powder Eyebrow Wood Pencil
- Sleek Bad Girl Palette
- Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara
- Chanel Joues Contraste Tea Rose
- Korres Lip Butter Pomegranate
- Guerlain Kiss Kiss Stick Gloss Corail des Mers

I hope I did their school colours a little justice. There is definitely no bitterness when I made this eye look. :P

Happy Tuesday, super awesome peeps! :P

Cheers,

Product Review: Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet + Liquid Foundation

2011-10-09T16:43:00.008+08:00

Hello, guys! I hope you're all having a blast this weekend. So sad that it's almost over in just a few hours and it's the start of another work week again. Anyway, I'm reviewing a foundation today, which I've had for over a month now and that is the Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet + Foundation. It received raves and had its share of rants from users but most of those who raved about it had combination-oily and oily skin types so mine fits the bill. Here's the review.

Product Description taken from the MUFE website:

MAT VELVET + Matifying Foundation
The Mat Velvet + foundation conceals skin imperfections, evens out the complexion and matifies with a non-oily powdery finish. The result is flawless and lasts for hours long. Its smooth, fluid texture is very stable, water-resistant and long-lasting. While it has a good coverage, it is also easy to apply. The end result can be fitted to your needs. Applied lightly, Mat Velvet + provides a natural, matte look to the complexion. Using several layers to help conceal blemishes creates a supple and elastic velvety finish. This new oil-free and non comedogenic formula is suited to sensitive skins.

How to Apply:
Pour a small amount of foundation onto a clean spatula and spread with the fingers, a dry sponge or our 8N Nylon Brush. Apply powder to set the foundation and increase both the wear time and matte effect on oily skins.

Formula:

Oil-free texture
Organic polymer
Amino acid coated pigments
Mica composite
Glycerine
Oil-free
Dermatologist tested

What I like:
- This foundation feels light on the skin. Not as light as Shu Uemura Face Architect Smoothing Fluid Foundation but it does feel light. Definitely not as heavy as Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay in Place.
- This feels velvety and smooth as it glides on the skin but you do have to blend it fast because it easily dries - could be due to its being oil-free.
- It is indeed matte but definitely not flat. It does look natural which is what I like about the finish.
- The shade I got is 40 Natural Beige. It is a tad dark upon application since I have gotten lighter and 30 would seem to be a better match but I am glad that it eventually blends very well with the skin and it then matches with it.
- It does not oxidize so I need not worry about looking like an oompa loompa.
- It stays on for hours. Even though I mostly stay inside an air-conditioned office with the a/c hitting my back, I still walk around a lot due to the nature of my job and even though my face sweats a bit, this foundation does not budge and stays.
- It provides medium coverage but can be built up and sheered depending on your preference. I prefer sheer and light though.
- A little goes a long way. I only need half (or probably a little more) a pea-sized amount for my entire face and part of my neck.
- I like the squeeze out bottle and the fact that it is made of plastic because once I run out, I can just use razor-sharp scissors and cut it in half to get the remaining foundation that I won't be able to get just by squeezing it.
- It has a shelf-life of 12 months.
- There are 16 shades to choose from based on the website. I'm just not sure how many are available or how frequent the stores restock. MUFE in Manila is notorious when it comes to not having stocks.
- Locally available. Just better call the branches first before coming over since a lot of products are almost always out of stock. I only know of 2 branches - EDSA Shang and Bonifacio High Street.

What I don't like:
- It dries easily. So the moment I dot the foundation on my face, I have to quickly blend it so I won't end up with dots and streaks.
- If I use it continuously for more than 3 days, I break out with it. I think I can use it just once or twice a week.
- It dries out my cheeks and I see dry patches I never knew I had.
- A bit pricey for Php 2250 but not bad if you really like it.

Will I buy again? Still on the fence since I break out with it but I'd like to try shade 30 Porcelain.

Overall rating: 4/5 I still gave it a 4 because I like the foundation in general and its performance. If only it does not break me out, then it would've gotten a higher rating. Comparing to the HD Foundation I had in 2009, this is soooo much better. It photographs well too though HD has a bit of edge when it comes to that.

EDIT: I used the foundation earlier for this review and now, I have a budding pimple on my nose. Boo!

Swatch

On me - just the foundation and under eye concealer. No setting powder so you can see how it looks on my combination-oily skin.

Have you tried this foundation?

Happy Sunday, super awesome peeps! :P

Cheers,

P.S. I would like to thank you guys for still visiting my blog and leaving comments even though I haven't done the same for you. I've been really preoccupied with work lately and a few realizations here and there and that is why makeup has totally taken the backseat for now. Will still do my best to keep this blog updated.

Current Favorites

2011-10-06T17:36:00.003+08:00

Hello! I'm squeezing in a quick post and I know I've been slacking off with blogging. I've still been busy since Monday and I'm only able to blog today because I called in sick. I haven't been feeling well since last night so before I go back to sleep, I thought I'd share my current favorites. Makeup is something that has been taking the backseat at the moment for three reasons - 1. Almost everyone I work with do not wear makeup. I'd be the odd man out if I wear bold makeup; 2. I've been lazy and tired that I'd rather sleep the few minutes I would dedicate for makeup application; and 3. My skin has never been better since I started religiously using Cetaphil as my cleanser and I can do away with a very sheer application of liquid foundation or just pressed powder. I was in Watson's last Sunday with my mom and I was about to pick up a new cleanser when she stopped me and told me to just stick to Cetaphil and repurchase that instead. That was the first time she did that so that means it's really doing a wonderful job for my skin. Here I go again with my babbling skills so before I talk about nonsense stuff any further, here are my favorite products at the moment:

Makeup:
1. Shu Uemura Face Architect Smoothing Fluid Foundation in 974 - On days when I have a few minutes to spare, I apply a sheer layer of this foundation just to even out my skin tone. I am once again falling in love with it.

2. Maybelline Dream Matte Powder - I am now on my third pan. I'm so glad that I can wear this alone and I'm good to go.

3. Shu Uemura Glow On P Pink 30 - I have already made a dent on M Pink 30 so I started to use P Pink 30 a lot. I love how it brightens my face and brings life to it especially on days when I look pale.

4. Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer - Works great on my under eyes. Covers the dark circles with just a little amount.

5. Korres Lip Butter in Pomegranate - I haven't been wearing lipsticks lately so this has become my favorite lip product at the moment. Keeps my lips smooth and supple while making it look pretty with a touch of coral-pink.

6. Revlon Brow Fantasy in Brunette - I apply the gel product on my brows and that's it. :)

7. Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara - I like how this adds a bit of volume on my lashes while still managing to make them look natural. It makes my eyelashes visible under my eye glasses too.

8. Benefit Posietint - I use this when I am in a hurry. I just dot a few on my fingers and then spread and blend them on my cheeks. Lasts the whole day on me too.

Skincare:

1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel - I think this works great with Cetaphil. It has become my daily and nightly moisturizer.

2. Celeteque Dermo Science Brightening Eye Tuck plus Dark Circles Lightener - I can see results, though minimal and gradual.

3. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Concentrated Cream - My dry skin's favorite.

4. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (not on the picture) - My current super favorite cleanser. My skin has been at its best state so far ever since I've given this cleanser a chance to work its magic on me. :)

Others:

1. Marionnaud Premium N3 Slanted Blusher Brush - This brush is awesome! :)

2. DKNY Be Delicious - This yummy and fruity scent works well with my body chemistry.

And my favorite bag at the moment. I don't want to strain my back so I no longer bring a lot of things. Whatever I can fit in this bag, that's all I'm bringing.

What are your current favorites? :)

Happy Thursday, everyone. :P

Cheers,

EOTD: UAAP Series - ADMU

2011-10-02T12:06:00.003+08:00

Hi everyone! I hope you're all doing great and had a wonderful week. Anyway, I've been really, really busy last week and will definitely be busier in the coming days because of work - I've been working at least 10 hours a day and I am usually tired when I get home, thus, the absence and lack of posts and updates and even though I do not leave comments on your blogs, I still read them. It's my way of de-stressing and relaxing after a tiring day at work. Anyway, to continue the EOTD UAAP Series, here is the second installment which features blue and white for Ateneo (ADMU). I am not an Atenean but I do remember having soirees and interactions back in high school days with Ateneo high, which almost got our HS club in trouble. And I took the ACET and argued with the proctor because of my long name. So here is the EOTD I came up with.

I used my Sleek Bad Girl Palette for this look. Innocence was applied on the inner half of the lids as well as on the inner corners of the eyes and on the brow bones as well. Then Obnoxious was applied on the outer half, outer V and on the crease. Then used both shades to line the lower lash lines too. After that, I applied Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara on my lashes. Skinfood Choco Powder Eyebrow Wood Pencil on my eyebrows too.

FOTD - someone wants to say hi! My niece Isabel. :)

I will schedule a few posts for this coming week so my blog will still have updates at least thrice. Reviews and EOTDs to come.

Happy Sunday, super awesome peeps!

Cheers,

EOTD/FOTD: UAAP Series - UST

2011-09-25T02:20:00.010+08:00

Hi everyone! I hope you're all having a great Sunday so far, weekend's almost over and tomorrow will be another manic Monday! Anyway, as the title suggests, this will be a series of EOTD featuring the university colors of the eight schools that are members of the UAAP or the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (much more like the NCAA in the US). I can't think of other themes so while I am looking for my thinking cap, this is what I'll be doing for the next few EOTDs. So the first one will be for UST (University of Santo Tomas) - black, gold, and white - which reminded me so much of the first ever pep rally way back on my freshman year. The first time my batch cheered "Go USTe!" with the matching hand/arm movement. Those were the days. :P I hope you'll like it! :)

I first filled in my brows with Revlon Brow Fantasy in Brunette, using just the pencil. I used both the Sleek Bad Girl and Kiss Beauty eye shadow palettes for this look. After priming my eyes with the ELF Mineral Eyeshadow Primer, I applied Innocence from the Sleek palette on the inner half of the lids. Then applied the gold shade from the Kiss Beauty palette on the outer half of the lids. Noir from the Sleek palette was then applied on the outer V extending to the crease to give definition on the eyes. Innocence was used again to highlight the inner corners of the eyes as well as the brow bones. I used all three shades to line the lower lash lines too.

My half FOTD. My skin is better now, thanks to Cetaphil.

Products I used:
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
- Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer
- Skinfood Salmon Dark Circle Powder
- Kanebo Coffret D'Or Beauty Lasting Pact
- Revlon Brow Fantasy Brunette
- Sleek Bad Girl Palette
- Kiss Beauty Palette
- Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara
- Shu Uemura Glow On P Pink 30
- Korres Lip Butter in Pomegranate

I'm still not using liquid foundation and most of the time just used pressed powder and not even powder foundation to allow my skin to breath and recover from the recent break out.

Anyway, let me know what you think of this EOTD series. If you find it corny, please let me know so I can come up with something better.

Happy Sunday, super awesome peeps! :)

Cheers,

ELLE Eyewear on SALE

2011-09-25T01:00:00.001+08:00

ELLE is giving a 10% discount on their eye wears today at SM Mall of Asia Aside from that, you can also get a free limited edition Elle Bowling Bag. So what are you waiting for? Head to MOA now and take advantage of the sale, it's the perfect time to buy a pair of glasses for yourself.

Cheers,

Kiss Beauty 16 Shimmer Eyeshadow Palette from Born Pretty Store Swatches + EOTD

2011-09-22T20:20:00.006+08:00

Howdy? I hope you're all doing great. I've been out the whole day and also took the time to drop by the post office to claim a package that was sent by Born Pretty Store again. I knew it was the eyeshadow palette I chose and I was right. So here are swatches and a few shots of the eye makeup I came up with as I was playing with it to de-stress.

I chose this palette because this has lotsa vibrant colours. Since I mostly have greens and dark shades, these will definitely add more life and colour to the EOTDs I do.

Swatches

Top Row

Bottom Row

And the EOTD I came up with. I would like to call this Micko's Sunset. The shades remind me so much of the sunset. So who is Micko and why? Early this morning, my mom and I found out that my nephew, Micko (my cousin's son and only child), passed away due to a motorcycle accident. I won't go further into details but I couldn't look at him in the coffin because he looked so different. I wanted to remember him as the tenacious little boy who grew up to be a fine and responsible young man. Gone too soon and the sun has finally set for him at 16 but I'm sure he's happy where he's at right now.

Used shades 7, 9, 15, and 16 (7 from the top row and 9, 15, and 16 from
the bottom row).

Anyway, I think I will play with this palette some more and hopefully, I can create more looks with it.

Happy Thursday, everyone! :)

Cheers,

Disclaimer: Product received for review PR consideration but does not affect my view on the said product.

Product Review: Canmake Concealer Foundation UV

2011-09-21T17:30:00.011+08:00

Having been a powder foundation user for quite some time now, my preferences have changed over time. From loving full coverage foundations to those with sheer-light coverage - that's how it has changed. Given the unbelievable weather we have and its being unstable, it is important to have one product that does a lot of things - conceals, covers and protects. So when I saw Canmake Concealer Foundation UV, I thought it would be a great product to try. See, it conceals as a foundation and it has SPF 25 PA++. It also doesn't hurt that it is a Japanese brand, although drugstore, since you know by now that I love Japanese brands when it comes to makeup. Now was I happy with it? Read the rest of this post to find out.

Product Description taken from Canmake website:

A color foundation based on the concealer concept.
You'll be amazed by the first application! The moist powder clings tightly to your skin.
Long-lasting formula giving you beautiful skin for hours and hours.
SPF25·PA++

A foundation based on the concealer concept
●Concealer intensively covers the flaws in your skin that cannot be hidden with foundation, such as under-eye bags, dullness and dark spots.
↓However, applying concealer takes time….
This product has the coverage to conceal the flaws in your skin, just by applying foundation. Has a natural finish, for skin that looks beautiful, even at point-blank range.
You'll be amazed by the first application. Feels like silk
●Contains amino acid-based emollient agents, locking moisture into your skin and protecting it from dryness.
●The moist powder feels just like silk on your skin. When applied to your skin with a sponge, it feels like it is just slipping on.
Long-lasting effect
●The sebum-absorbing powder absorbs excessive oil from your skin. ●Contains hyper-lasting polymer. The powder clings tightly to your skin, forming a long-lasting protective layer which prevents your make-up wearing off. ●Pure white mica is a highly white-colored powder, which prevents the dullness that results from sweat and sebum.

How to use:
○After preparing your skin with a make-up base, apply the appropriate amount to a sponge and spread it evenly over your skin.
○If using water, wet the sponge, then squeeze the water out before applying the powder to the sponge.
○Please use a clean sponge that has had the water squeezed out thoroughly.
○Please do not throw the inner film away.

What I like:
- As with Japanese-branded foundations, the texture is amazing - silky, velvety and soft and smooth to the touch.
- The compact is really nice and looks clean which is good for a drugstore Japanese brand.
- It really does conceal and cover pores really well.
- It provides full coverage and works double time as both a concealer and powder foundation.
- Finish is really smooth and almost flawless.
- Does not have the typical makeup scent that is annoying.
- Has 4 shades to choose from - 01 Light Beige, 02 Light Ochre, 03 Natural Ochre, and 11 Pink Ochre.
- Inexpensive for less than 700 bucks for both compact and refill.
- Yes, it is refillable.
- It has SPF 25 PA ++

What I don't like:
-While the finish, coverage, and texture are all amazing, staying power isn't good especially with the kind of weather that we have. It melts away easily like there won't be any visible traces of it in just a couple of hours.
- I think this is suited for cooler places where humidity isn't an issue.
- It cakes even though I apply it real thin using a fluffy powder or kabuki brush that isn't dense enough. What's worse is that it emphasizes pores and even settles on lines I never knew I had. That is even with a moisturized face with primer and setting powder.
- It feels kinda heavy on the face.
- Not much for oil control - my face looks like an oil slick after an hour or two.
- The powder looks dark on the pan but do not, and I mean do not, be fooled by it. It goes on lighter on the face. I thought of getting 01 since I have acidic skin and most foundations oxidize on me but instinct told me to get 02 instead and I'm glad I did. It goes on a bit lighter upon application but thanks to acids, it then becomes a match after a while.
- Not available locally and this was purchased in Hong Kong. However, you can join pre-orders of those going to HK or check out wehaveit143 for pre-orders as well.

Overall rating: 3/5 Please note that I only gave it a 3 because it didn't perform well on my skin type and the weather here in Manila. But I can see it working and performing well in places with cold weather. The texture is really great. My mom likes it though. In fact, she's the one using it now even though I dropped it (why does it always happen to me?!) and it was just pressed using isopropyl alcohol. That's how much she likes it.

Will I buy again? No. I really wanted to like it but the weather and my skin type just doesn't.

Have you tried Canmake foundations? Which one can you recommend?

Happy Wednesday, everyone! :)

Cheers,

EOTD: Mariposa

2011-09-20T12:15:00.004+08:00

Okay, another title from a Barbie Movie. Maybe I've seen too much Barbie movies lately but it's nice to watch movies that does not require one to think every once in a while, don't you agree? Anyway, before I start talking about Barbie (I only had three, by the way, as I prefer playing with toy guns and cars when I was a kid), here are a few pictures of the EOTD. No half-FOTD, still giving my skin its much needed breather and break from makeup.

Skinfood Choco Powder Eyebrow Wood Pencil on eye brows and two coats Maybelline The Colossal Volume Express Mascara for the lashes.

Obnoxious applied on the lower half of the lids;
Intoxicated on the inner half of the lids extending to the crease;
Twilight on the outer half of the lids extending to the crease; and
Innocence on the inner corners and brow bones

I hope you'll like it.

Happy Tuesday, super awesome peeps! :P

Cheers,

Product Review: Queen Helene Mint Julep Natural Facial Scrub

2011-09-19T14:00:00.002+08:00

To have brighter, clearer, and healthier skin that is more radiant and glowing, exfoliation is something we should definitely not skip in our beauty regimen. It is recommended that we exfoliate at least twice a week so we can get rid of dead skin cells and deep seated dirt that makes our skin look dull and unhealthy. Before I crossed paths with Origins Modern Friction, there was Queen Helene Mint Julep Natural Facial Scrub and I guess it's about time I give it a review.

Photo taken from Drugstore.com

Product Description taken from Queen Helene website:

A refreshing natural-fiber facial scrub that deep cleans your skin and leaves a pleasant, tingling glow. The gentle exfoliating action draws out impurities, unclogs pores and removes dead, dry cells from the surface of your skin. Emollients help replenish lost moisture, effectively protecting your skin from the harsh elements. Use once a week, or more often if your skin is oily, for skin that looks fresh and healthy and feels refreshingly soft and smooth. This scrub works great in the shower too.

Deep Cleans, Unplugs Pores and Exfoliates the Dull Surface Layers of Skin

Ingredients:

Water, Walnut (Juglans Regia) Powder (Juglans Regia), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Glycerin Kaolin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Isopropyl Myristate, Dimethicone, Triethanolamine, Fragrance, Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Phenoxyethanol

How the scrub looks

What I like:
- The scrubs are fine, gentle, and non-abrasive and won't tear up the skin leaving it raw. I like the feel of it.
- Smells nice and not overwhelming.
- My skin feels smooth and soft after exfoliating with this scrub.
- Does not break me out.
- I am really surprised that it did not cause any allergic reaction since it has walnut powder and I am allergic to nuts - quite a miracle for me as nuts can be fatal.
- No animal testing.
- It really does exfoliate and remove deep seated dirt on the pores.
- A little goes a long way. I don't need much to exfoliate my face and neck.
- Inexpensive for a big tube (more or less than Php 400) and locally available at Healthy Options.

What I don't like:
- I was initially amazed as to how my skin feels soooo smooth and soft after using this but then it has dimethicone which is a type of silicone. And what does silicone do as a primer? Do the math, dearies. It could be the dimethicone sitting right on top of my skin that causes it to feel smooth.
- It has Methylparaben and Propylparaben, baby! If you're not fond of paraben, stay away from this.

Overall rating: 4/5

Will I buy again? Yes. Only when I'm done with my Origins scrub which isn't locally available.

Have you tried this product?

Happy Monday, everyone!

Cheers,

Product Review: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser + Mini Game Winner

2011-09-18T17:15:00.008+08:00

I have been breaking out really bad lately - a lot of red spots accompanied with dry and flaky skin on the cheeks and on the sides of my mouth. I am thinking of three probable culprits - the unstable weather, Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet + Foundation, and hormones because I was PMS-ing. Whatever the culprit is, I had to figure out a way to soothe my skin and using the cleansers I normally use were out of the picture since they somewhat dry my skin even more. Good thing I saw my Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser for Sensitive Skin glaring at me partially hidden by the big bottles of cleansers. I have totally ignored it because I felt that it didn't cleanse my skin enough because it wasn't squeaky clean. I knew I needed something less drying so I finally used it again and since it's what I have been using for the past few weeks, I think it's about time I give it a review.

Photo taken from Cetaphil website

Product Description from Cetaphil Website:

As gentle as it gets.
Cetaphil® Gentle Skin Cleanser is great for daily makeup removal. Originally formulated for dermatologists, this cleanser is gentle on your skin and sensitive to your skin’s needs. Cetaphil® Gentle Skin Cleanser will not strip the skin of natural protective oils or emollients, or disturb the skin’s natural pH balance. Recommended for years by dermatologists, it is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Cetaphil® Gentle Skin Cleanser is gentle enough for children, teens and adults.

Ingredients:
Water, Cetyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Stearyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What I like:
- Gentle enough for my skin. It did not aggravate my break outs nor did it add any irritation. It also did not further dry my skin.
- Since I finally gave it a chance to do its work on cleansing my face every single day, I realized that it does remove my makeup. The eye shadows that I have been wearing to do the EOTD posts were effectively removed. I just need to use more product if I want to use it for makeup removal. I know a lot of people complained about it not removing their makeup effectively and that is because it is NOT a makeup remover - it is just a very gentle cleanser. But still, it works fine for me and if it does work for you too that way, I'm happy for you. :)
- Does not sting my eyes like other cleansers do!
- Contains no fragrance and my nose loves it!
- Does not leave my skin feeling squeaky clean and I'm sure that it does not strip my skin off its natural moisture.
- Leaves my skin radiant and soft after cleansing.
- When I used a wet tissue (from Japan Home Center that my mom purchased) on my face, it stung, had a burning sensation and my skin felt raw. I immediately cleansed my face with this and it somehow felt soothing and calmed down my irritated skin and it was no longer red after a couple of minutes.
- Locally available at most drugstores and department stores.
- Not that pricey compared to other cleansers I have used.

What I don't like:
- It sometimes feels like it leaves a very thin film of cleanser on my face so I have to rinse it double time.
- For those freaked out by paraben, this has Methylparaben, Propylparaben, and Butylparaben.

Overall rating: 4.75/5 I realized that I need something very gentle for my sensitive skin and this is it.

Will I buy again? Definitely! My mom even made a comment about my skin looking brighter and better since I started using this. Ever heard of the saying Moms know best? :P Though I want to try the Daily Facial Cleanser for Normal, Combination, and Oily Skin (which I understand is pricier).

Tips: If you plan to use this as a makeup remover, squirt some product on a cotton pad/ball then rub it very gently on your face without tugging your skin. You may also want to use a makeup removing cleanser before using Cetaphil and use this as an after-wash cleanser instead to counter the drying effect of the other cleanser. Do the same for eye makeup. It won't do much for heavy duty waterproof mascara but it will do for non-waterproof mascara with just a coat or two. Again, it is supposed to be very gentle for those with sensitive skin and it is indeed gentle.

How do you find Cetaphil cleansers?

By the way, remember the mini game on my last post? My friend is 36 and a proud mom of 2. Jezzhae got it right. :) Please email me (at greenappletini28@msn.com) your shipping information so I can send you my mini gift the soonest possible time.

I hope you had a blessed Sunday, everyone. :)

Cheers,

Saturday Makeup Gig + Mini Game for You

2011-09-17T14:40:00.002+08:00

How's your weekend so far, super awesome peeps? Mine's a drag because after losing all my contacts on my phone last night, I had to find ways to contact everyone and slowly rebuild my contacts list. Pfft! Anyway, I did my friend's makeup earlier today for a wedding she's going to attend. It was fun doing her makeup and I'm glad that she asked me to do it, while her little girl was observing the whole time. And I was excited because it was a formal gig and not just an ambush makeover but I used that title on the picture anyway.

Here are a few of her shots. Well, you've seen her before picture on a previous Ambush Makeover post. Here it is again.

The after shots:

I just had to include this because it's my fave.
But seriously, why do the best shots have to be
blurry? :-\

Products I used:
- MUFE Mat Velvet + Foundation
- Laura Mercier Secret Concealer
- Skinfood Salmon Dark Circle Powder
- ELF Mineral Eyeshadow Primer
- Innocence, Intoxicated, and Blade Eye Shadows from Sleek Bad Girl Palette
- Maybelline Gel Liner
- False lashes
- Stila Contouring Trio
- Laura Mercier Baby Pink blush
- Kiehl's Lip Balm 1
- Chanel RA Comedia

(Did not use my personal brushes for sanitary and hygiene purposes.)

Now, let's play a little game here - Guess her age! The first one to guess her age right or at least the closest to it will receive a mini gift from me. Are you guys game? Leave your guess on the comments section and I'll announce the winner on my next post. :) (Local bloggers only)

Happy Saturday, everyone! I'm off to bed. Haven't slept yet. *yawn* :D

Cheers,