Lina

UNII Palettes

2011-01-14T17:24:00.001-08:00

This is a major product rave post. I had ordered a UNII Palette about 10 days ago from their site, and it finally arrived today.

Let me tell you, this is no ordinary palette. It is so compact, heavy-duty and so gorgeous! I got mine in Coal (they come in 5 other colors). The packaging also comes with a sheet of magnet sticker, so you can customize your palette however you like.

The UNII Palette in Coal; a gorgeous black. This is with the clasp open.

They retail for $29 each, but they are on sale for $24 now!

Also, if you buy 5 or more, they are each $20!

I have placed my everyday items in my palette; this makes getting ready in the morning a lot faster. I don't have to open a bunch of cases. Did I mention this palette comes with a huge mirror that makes makeup application so easy?!

The back, with the logo and company's site.

I am in love with this palette. I can't wait to take it with me when I travel. Not only is it beautifully designed, but it also gives me a piece of mind; I don't have to worry about my palette exploding while traveling, and things moving around it in :)

I highly recommend this to anyone!! The UNII palettes kick MAC's butts! (my old MAC palette now collects dust somewhere in my collection)

Btw, what I have in my palette:

- Shiseido Maquillage Pressed Foundation
- MAC eyeshadows in Satin Taupe, Smoke & Diamonds, and Phloof!
- Shiseido Maquillage eyeshadow in RD734
- Cargo blush in Catalina (huge!! And took a beating after I depotted it from its original case; not recommended!)
- UNII thumb grip (provided with palette). This helps you hold onto the palette when you're applying makeup.

Haul from Japan!

2011-01-11T22:44:00.000-08:00

Hi all :)

My best friend just recently came back from her trip to Japan. Here are a few items she picked out for me that I wanted to check out.

The Shiseido 131 brush. This is supposed to work great with either pressed or liquid foundation. It is not flimsy at all; quiet stiff and extremely soft! The bristles are 1.75cm in diameter; tiny but works well in small areas such as the under eyes.

Fiberwig set; including the original mascara and a tiny version ('tiny sniper' lol) of it for the lower lashes. I love fiberwig mascaras; they are easy to take off and waterproof.
The infamous Dollywink liquid eyeliner in Deep Black. I've heard great reviews on this. This type of brush has become my favourite way of applying eyeliner (replaced my usual Gel + Brush method). Did i mention how cute the packaging is?

Canmake Cheek Gradation in 05 (Peach). I already own this in 01 (Pink) and I absolutely love it! There is sparkles on the top but that's just on the surface; it eventually fades the more you use it :)

Shiseido Integrate Rainbow Grade Eyes in GY905. This comes with 4 shades of eyeshadow and the bottom purple shade is a "all over sparkle" that you use after you're done, for extra bling!

Shiseido Tsubaki Water, which is a leave in conditioner. You can spray this onto clean damp hair, or after you have styled your hair for extra shine. Can't wait to try this out!

Shiseido Tsubaki Treatment, which is a thick cream you leave onto clean damp hair and wrap your hair for about 30mins. But I like to keep mine on for an hour for extra work!! Then you simply wash it out :)

And lastly, my best friend got me this totally adorable planner for 2011; something I really needed! I absolutely love it!!!

That is all for now! Hope everyone is having a terrific start to 2011 :o)

Lancôme : Color Design Matte Lipstick (Pink Preview)

2010-07-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

I had forgotten just how much I enjoy Lancome's lipsticks, until I picked up Pink Preview from their Color Design Matte collection. They retail for around $30 here in Canada, and I think they are worth every penny.

They claim, according to the site to:

Color Design, the expert in makeup artistry, is right on trend with brand new matte finishes expanding our range of sensational effects for your Lips. This new formula contains a revolutionary Color Seal Complex comprised of soft silicones and pigments that are combined with concentrated comfort agents to deliver optically diffused color that is feather-resistant and non-drying. Lips are stylishly matte and experience velvety comfort all day.
*The color being shown on the left is Pink Preview*

This group comes in 8 shades, and I definitely want to get a few more. Here are a few pictures of Pink Preview (a matte blue-based pink; gorgeous on fair-skinned girls).

Now, the only weird thing about this lipstick is that the above picture, the top is actually the bottom, if that makes any sense. So once you open it from the top, the lipstick is actually aiming south, not north. As a designer, this really gets to me :-(

Overall, I highly reccommend this line of matte lipsticks for everyone :) They just look so natural on, and they are so smooth and long lasting. You really don't need a lot. These are by-far the best matte lipsticks I have ever tried. Try them out next time you're out!! :)

<3 Lina

Maybelline

2010-05-19T18:18:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's the recent explosion of drugstore videos on Youtube, more specifically for the Maybelline Eyestudio that has brainwashed me. Or their lovely packaging and nice range of colors. Either way, I've done some hauling lately!

Purple Icon:

Give Me Gold:

Sunset Seduction:

Taupe Temptress:

Overall, they're not bad! Sparkly, well pigmented, and definetly very cute to use. The packaging is quiet cute as well. I hope 4 is enough for me :x

I also picked up their Stylish Smokes in Natural Smokes (after watching this gorgeous video on it), and I am very impressed! I am wearing it right now actually and it is extremely pigmented. Although I had already tried another one of their Stylish Smokes in Natural Smokes, I wasn't all that impressed. The Natural Smokes is by-far better and I think it would look great on all skintones!

Stylish Smokes in Natural Smokes:

All this hauling, coming from a "high-end makeup" girl! I guess drugstores have turned up their game in the past couple of years :)

Haul

2010-04-25T22:44:00.001-07:00

A few things I picked up this weekend :)

The Shu Uemura eyelash curler. Been meaning to get this for a while now. It really is amazing!!

My favourite mask of all time. Shiseido's purifying mask. Comes out white; you leave it on your skin for 5 minutes, then rinse it off. Helps get rid of excess sebum and any other dirt in your pores. Really works!!! I've been using this for years!!

Shiseido's Hydra-Balancing softner. Suppost to be a toner. Not gonna lie, I got it because I don't currently use a toner, and this looked like the safest bet from Shiseido. Dries nicely and doesn't leave any residue/greasiness after. We'll see in a few weeks if this really does anything positive to my skin.

And lastly! Some SPF. Yes, I know this is for kids, but I got it thanks to Fuzkittie's recoomendation a while back. She said this is quiet nice and non-greasy. So far, I like it!

That is all! :) Hope everyone had a good weekend!

Everyday Makeup (Lorraine "TheCurrentCustom" Stanick's Everyday Makeup Contest Entry)

2010-04-13T16:04:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone :)

I was meaning to do a post on this, but I figure I'll do it now since the lovely Lorraine is doing a contest for it! Here is my everyday makeup :)

**usually takes 10-15mins**

Here goes!

I start off with a clean face, and SPF. I then move to.....

The goody bag...

Moisturize those lips!

Urban Decay Primer Potion (looks gross, I know. Depotted)

Conceal undereye circles, and anything else that needs help :)

Foundation time! My all-time favourite; Shiseido Maquillage Pressed Powder. Best thing ever!

Do you like the case?! It was a collaboration between Shiseido and Christopher Kane :)

Eyebrows. Shu Uemura makes the best eyebrow pencils ever!!

Blush is next. Desire (matte hot pink) from Nars. Always gotta look like a doll ;)

Everyday is a day for a smokey eyes. I love wearing gray eyeshadows. This is my favorite palette, and I use it almost everyday. Guerlain's Ombre Eclat in Perle D'Argent 480.

Time to line the eyes. I use Annabelle's SmoothLiner in Gunmetal. They are one of the best pencils I've ever used. Smooth, don't smudge. and $10 each.

If I'm not using the YSL Faux Cils, I usually grab the Maybelline Define-a-lash in black. Both do the job.

And the brushes I use daily :)
-MAC 116
-Italian Badger Face brush
- Eyebrow/Eyelash brush from EcoTools
-MAC 217
-Lise Watier concealer brush

That is all!! :)

My Vanity / Japan + Online Haul

2009-12-29T16:26:00.001-08:00

Finally got a chance to get a desk/vanity table. Here it is!! From IKEA. And yes, I built it myself :) The black drawers on top are used for makeup, which i posted back a while ago.

So, since it's almost the new year....that means new things, right?!!! Here are a few items I've picked up during the past months! :)

I decided to pick this up from Revlon. Their Illuminance eyeshadows in Precious Metals 05. Comes with 4 shades: gunmetal blue, gold, coppery gold and a mid-toned pinkish shade. What made me get this was watching one of Catalina's videos (cl2425), where she does a awesome smokey eye (God, she is gorgeous!!! Her and ChefCaffy are my fav. ppl on YouTube :) So, thanks Catalina!!! :P

Speaking of ChefCaffy, I got my 2nd NARS blush in Desire. A gorgeous matte hot pink :)

I ordered some things off adambeauty:

More of my HG foundation: Shiseido Maquillage's Moisture Finish Powdery UV Foundation in OCOO. They only make this baby once a year in the fall/autumn period!!

Kiss Me Heroine Mascara (volume and curl). I've always wanted to try this out. And I have to say, it's pretty impressive; way better than the Maybelline Define-A-Lash mascara I was previously using.

Maquillage single eye color in RD734. Another impulse buy! But I don't own a color like this in my collection, so :)

Visee Blackish Forming Eyes palette in B-3. I had my eye on this since it came out a few months ago, and who doesn't love a dramatic smokey eye!

Lavshuca Light Mix Eyes palette in BR-2. This brand makes really awesome palettes. And cute packaging too.

Majolica Majorca Jewelling Pencil in 71.

And finally, Kate Lasting Color Eyes in BK-1. Great for smudging along your lash line, or using as a base on your lid.

Ok, moving on!! My best friend went to Japan, and came back with some goodies.

Canmake Cheek & Highlight in 04. I wanted their bronzing powder, but my friend couldn't find it :(

Canmake Powder Cheeks in PW20.

Some masks :)

That's it for now! My Coastal Scents haul should be next...it's on it's way!!!

P.S: I know this is a little OCD, but does anyone else get their makeup items ready the night before? Or is that just me? :P

An Update!

2009-11-18T20:20:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's been hella long since I last posted!! Sorry, guys :( I've been busy with working. And life in general!! Plus, I got some good news. I finally ditched my old, lousy HP Laptop for a 15" MacBook Pro!!! How did I ever live without a apple??HOW?!

And yes, things look different (and better) on a MacBook Pro...just in case you were wondering ;)

Let's see, what has Lina been up to.....

I've been to 2 concerts lately. Both on opposite sides of the spectrum. Firstly, I went to the Distant Worlds concert, at the gorgeous Orpheum Theatre in downtown Vancouver. A concert dedicated to the music of Final Fantasy, and the work of Nobuo Uematsu, whom I LOVE! He is a freaking genius. Writes the most touching classical music I've ever heard. The concert was so beautiful, and I cried twice...

A few weeks later, I finally went to see my favorite band, ever!! The band I've been listening to since I was 6. My love...U2!!!

Seriously, I've been to tons of concerts, and this was by far the best concert I've ever been to. And yes, I cried 3 times. LOL. What a loser, I know.

Looks like a big crab, doesn't it?!

U2!!!!!!!!!!!!! At BC Place ;)

I wish I could see them every week!!!

I'll be doing more makeup-related posts coming up, keep tuned :) But I did pick up the Amazing Cosmetics Concealer, and wow, it is freaking amazing. I have found my HG concealer. I got mine in Fair ;)

xoxo

Foundation Routine: Shiseido + Rimmel

2009-10-04T00:47:00.000-07:00

hey all :)

hope everyone's having a good weekend so far!!

so after playing around with my new shiseido dual balancing foundation (#B20), and trying to get it to work (with diff. brushes, powders, etc.), I have come up with the 'HG method' for making it work. I didn't like it as much before, but damn, do I love it now!! It has become my HG liquid foundation. Here's da method!

1. Apply a tiny (and i stress tiny!! you don't need a lot for it to work!) amount of the foundation on your MAC 189 brush. Blend away. Apply a bit more to areas that need more help :)

2. Set foundation with a flat brush ( I use the Italian Badger one; you can get it off coastalscents.com), using my HG pressed powder by Rimmel; Stay Matte in Translucent.

and you're done!!! :) easy, eh!! Well, I guess you could use this method with any foundation you may have. And try out the Rimmel powder!! It's cheap and amazing!!! ( I love it more than previous more expensive powders I've used; this one was only $4!!!). Oh, and that MAC 189 brush isn't all that necessary, but it does make a major difference. I tried using the standard foundation brush (MAC 190) and it did not work. Same goes for using the MAC 189 (that skunk looking brush, yeah you know what i'm talking about ;) and my fingers, but the 189 reigned supreme!!

Hope this helps someone out!

Lina

P.S: I only got the 189 brush a long time ago because a very awesome Youtube Guru named ChefCaffy showed it in one of her videos. Check her out if you don't already know her!!! :D

Wish List 09/09

2009-09-18T20:48:00.000-07:00

I've always written down, and made long lists in the past of what I want. But usually, I end up misplacing them. So, I've decided to start making them here! And hopefully you guys will join in and start 'sharing the love' *translation: sharing some ideas of what to buy next ;)!*

Sigma Makeup: Complete Brush Kit w. brush roll
$$$: 100
Why?: Ok, I swear, this will be my last brush purchase. I swear!!!

MacBook Pro 17"
$$$: 3,000 :(
Why?: I'm a Graphic Designer...and using a PC laptop is looked down upon in this industry. Did I mention you're virus-free with a MAC?

Nars: Mata Hari Blush
$$$: 28
Why?: It's such a nice pink color!! And I only own another Nars blush (Orgasm) which is amazing. Best blushes ever made.

IKEA Vanity Table
$$$: 249
Why?: It matches my new makeup storage really well. I'm also in the midst of changing my room decor up.

Rafael Nadal
$$$: Priceless
Why?: He's Spanish. He's ranked 2nd in the world of tennis. He's (really really) rich. And he's super cute :}
"But Lina, you..can't put people in your wish list..." Yes I know guys, I know. But that's why they're called a wish list ;)

Daily Makeup Survey!

2009-09-17T14:42:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone. I got this survey off of Beauty Broadcasts' Blog (EmilyNoel83 on youtube's blog). Hope you all join in as well!!

DAILY MAKEUP SURVEY

1. What time did you do your makeup today?
2:00 p.m. (...it's my day off but I don't like walking around au natural)
2. What's the least expensive beauty item you used?
My ecotools brushes; $9 for 5 face brushes
3. What was the biggest problem you needed to correct?
Undereye circles :(
4. Did you apply false eyelashes?
No...but I did apply some last night for fun :)
5. Did you do anything while applying makeup?
Watch CNN Headline news
6. Biggest makeup mishap today?
Too much eyeshadow on one eye...unevenness
7. Did you have a makeup inspiration in mind?
Not really, I usually go by how I'm feeling that day
8. What's the most time-consuming part of your makeup routine?
Getting the base down right!! Foundation, concealer, powder, etc.
9. What's part of your routine is the most fun?
Choosing different eye colors. But I usually stick to the boring gray palette on most days.
10. What part of your makeup makes the biggest difference in the way you look? Concealer
11. Neutral or colorful eyeshdaow?
Neutral
12. Liquid or mineral foundation?
Liquid; Shiseido Dual Balancing in B20
13. Do you do your hair or makeup first?
Makeup
14. Did you pack a makeup bag to take with you for the day?
Yup, and it weights as much as a brick!
15. When did you finish your makeup?
2:15 p.m.

My Makeup Storage

2009-08-29T03:31:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!!

For the past month, I've been a little frustrated with my current makeup storage area. Needless to say, I stuffed most of it in a big drawer in my dresser. The rest went into some cosmetics bag that you get for free from Dior. And, being the super organized person that I am, I was losing sleep over the mess :( *haha*

So, IKEA came to the rescue! Ok, well, not really. I was watching one of my favourite gurus, What Style Is To Nickel and his makeup collection, and it inspired me. I already had a lot of dark items on my dresser (mostly anna sui stuff), so I decided to run with it!

Here are the drawers I got from Ikea:

Both from their Fira collection (ranging from $16-17)

Almost 3 hours later, I completed building them :) *and I thought they come pre-assembled..since theyre small...what was I thinking...?*

I thought, hey I'm done! Now I just have to paint them! Right? Wrong! My dad, whos a carpenter said I had to paint it with a primer. Twice. So I did:

Ok, now just gotta paint it...and...
Well, aparently, you're suppost to sand the entire thing before painting it!! Argh. So, after 4 hours of sanding (inside and out!), finally it was smooth enough to paint.

And 3 coats later of semi-matte black paint, it was done!!! Weeheee!!!

TA DA!!!!
(yes I know the ugly brown dresser does not go with the black drawers. That will be changed in da future!! :P )

And now, on to the organization!!

This first drawer is mostly face/cheeck/primers/powders. The foundation of makeup :)

This one carries all my eyeshadows.

These 3 small ones carry mascaras, lip stuff, and liners of all sorts.

Yes, this drawer is dedicated to fake lashes, mostly inexpensive Asian ones. Because they are good and cheap!! :)

Some tools, new items, and sponges.

My "sad" drawer which consists of my one and only MAC palette (which I love and I have 6 shadows in it so far...) and a few palettes I never touch anymore...

That is all!! Hope you all like :)

What I am using right now: Tag

2009-08-23T19:14:00.001-07:00

I caught this from Lollipop26's blog, and thought I'd share the love :) Hope you all likes and join in too!!

Shampoo: Shiseido Aquair Deep Moist Shampoo (I actually like this more than the red Tsubaki one! It's more moisurizing for my dry, bleached hair!)

Conditioner: Stilll using the Shiseido Tsubaki one (red version)

Styling products: TRESemmé Heat Tamer (on my 2nd bottle; best heat protector I've ever used and its only around $4)

Shower Gel: Dove

Body moisturiser: I don't use one <=)

Deodorant: Dove

Fake Tan: I don't fake tan; I think one day the ingredients used in tanning products will prove to be bad for us (hey, I'm just scared that day will come...) so I steer clear of them. So I am currently as white as a ghost :)

Cleanser: For the most part, Obagi (Clenziderm) and sometimes I also use the Shiseido White Lucent one

Exfoliator: Good old aspirin mask

Primer: Primavista's Bright Up Base (I did a review on this recently)

Foundation brush: The Body Shop's Face Mineral brush

Concealer: Lise Watier Portfolio

Powder: My everyday foundation is pressed powder...so yeah, I don't follow up with another coating of powder :)

Blusher: Mostly either Nars Orgasm or MAC's Fashion Frenzy (a hot pink)

Bronzer: I don't use bronzers. I don't even own one <=(

Highlighter: I just use the bright lavender color in the Lise Watier Portfolio wheel. Really brightens up my face.

Eyeshadow base: Recently just bought my first UDPP, and I am in love with it. Why did I wait so long to get one?! (oh right..because Vancouver just got their first Sephora...)

Eyeshadows: I have been changing it up everyday, but most of the time, its the Guerlain 4 color palette in Perle d'Argent 480 (pearl shimmer/ gray/ gunmetal gray shimmer/ charcoal shimmer)

Eyeliner: MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack

Curler: My favourite by Jill Stuart (its pink!). And also my Anna Sui one if I can't find the other :P

Mascara: YSL Faux cils

Lipstick: Mostly MAC's angel, or Lovelorn (ah, I can't choose!)

Lipgloss: Not really into lip glosses... I hate how my hair gets stuck on my lips :(

Nail Colour: I have Rimmel's Milk Chocolate on right now. A very neutral color that, well, looks like milk chocolate. Will change it soon to something more lively, like a hot pink!!

That is all for now! Hope you guys join in on this tag! :D

Easy Eyes ;)

2009-08-11T19:38:00.001-07:00

Hey guys!!

Here is my favorite eye look, which is quiet easy to recreate. The items I used were:

- Guerlain Quad in Perle D'Argent 480
- MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack
- Urban Decay Primer Potion
- Rimmel Glam 'Eyes Mascara
- MAC brushes: 209, 217, and 219

After applying my UDPP, I used the white shade from the quad all over (I have a review on the quad on this blog; check it out!). Then I line the upper lashline with my MAC Fluidliner. Next, I apply the bottom left shimmery grey color on the outer crease, making sure not to go all the way in to the inner corner. Then I use the darkest shade in the quad (after the liner is dry) to smudge the liner, and extend it slightly into the outer 'V'. This is the look I love doing the most, where the crease is very defined on the outer corner. Then I curl my top lashes and apply mascara.

The key thing is to blend, blend, blend!!! Hope you all like this look! :)

P.S: Please excuse the wacky eyebrows...

Review: Sofina Primavista Bright Up Base

2009-08-05T22:34:00.000-07:00

Hi y'all :o)

So, I thought I'd do a review on this amazing product, since getting it and using it religiously for almost 2 months. I've tried many bases before, and I have to say that this is by far my favourite!

Here are the pros:

- actually brights up your skin tone! hence the name :P
- only need one pump (about a pea size)
- no funky odor
- doesn't break me out!!!!!!!!!! ( I can't tell you how many times bases have broken me out in the past...this product is a miracle I tell ya!!)
- cute packaging :}
- you'll use less foundation/concealer
- sanitary; pump
- comes in 2 other formulations: clear cover and smooth coat
- has a 'window' on the side so you can see how much product is left
- makes my makeup last all day, even in this humid, 30+ degree weather!
- doesn't change into some weird color; won't affect your foundation/powders' color on top

And a few cons:

- a bit pricey ($30 US on adambeauty.com)
- only contains SPF 10 PA+ ( I usually go for SPF 15, which I apply underneath)

And that's about it! :) I hope you guys check out this awesome line from Sofina. Here's some more info below from their website:

SOFINA Primavista Bright Up Base (makeup base)
Covers skin dullness for a bright, clear finish, complementing SOFINA Primavista makeup foundations

•	Augments violet and blue light spectrum for a bright and clear finish.
•	Prevents makeup foundation from wearing off, for a long-lasting and flawless finish.
•	Moisturizing ingredient (chamomile extract)
•	Fragrance free
•	SPF10 PA+

And now, a little background on Primavista, which I found quiet interesting, as a Graphic Designer :P

Brand Naming
'Prima vista' means 'first look' in Italian. The brand naming reflects the zest SOFINA produces: lively and bright first impressions for all females.

Package Design
The package design - a small box in pink beige, which symbolizes the brilliance in skin, tied carefully with a ribbon in mocha brown - was created with the concept that the purchaser may perceive each product as an intimate gift to herself; a present that enhances her unique beauty.

What color suits your eyes?

2009-07-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

I saw this great article in the recent Glow magazine (Canadian beauty mag). Ever wondered what color goes with your eye color. Have no fear, I got it right here!!!!

Click on the images to get them bigger ;)

For those with blue eyes

For those with hazel & green eyes

And of course, all of us with brown eyes (hi:)

Hope this helps some of you out there!!

Review: MAC Studio Scuplt Concealer

2009-07-27T20:25:00.001-07:00

I got this about a month ago, and have had a while now using it various ways. From different eye brushes (MAC224, Lise Watier Portfolio Brush, Anna Sui Concealer Brush) and even my ring finger (not so sanitary!). Here's some info on it:

5.5 g /0.19 US OZ
CA$20.00

Yet, the result is usually the same. The creamy, yet thick, consistency might seem nice when you swatch it on the back of your hand, but that's not how it appears when applied to dark circles. For me, it kept looking dry, uneven, and although it is thick, it was not very opaque. I had to keep laying a bunch on, which only made the under eye area look even brighter (and not so natural looking). I will admit though, the waterproof claim made by this concealer does stand true, even on humid days.

When I used my Primavista Bright Up Base under it, thinking this would solve the problem, it actually made my undereyes look worse. Very dry, and cakey. The only thing I put under it was a load of lotion, which only helped slightly.

So, overall, this concealer does not beat my HG Lise Watier Portfolio.

P.S: For all of you living in Canada/U.S who can't get their hands on the Lise Watier portfolio, you can get it here. Also, use the coupon code "KANDEE1C9" to get 10% off! Offer expires 9/30/2009.

Brush Cleaning 101

2009-07-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone :)

I just finished cleaning my brush collection...and well, thought I'd tell y'all what I do to get them clean. I usually wash them once a week; you don't want anything (germies) to grow on them, because this might infect your gorgeous face!!

I know there's a lot of "brush cleaners" out there, most notably MAC's version, but I think that paying for some water solution is a little silly. $13 for one bottle? I prefer to use good old Johnson's Baby Gel wash. It gets the job done :)

So, just get the brush's bristles wet first, put some of the gel on it, and move it back and forth on your palm. You don't want to move it in a circular motion, because that will cause the bristles to go nuts and fall prematurely.

Then, lightly pinch the bristles to get rid of any water. And lay them out on a paper towel to dry overnight. Some require more time to dry (...like my stupid Body Shop Kabuki brush...that little monster takes well over a day to dry!! arghhh!!)

Also, I know some people need to clean their brush as they apply their makeup (well, maybe you decided to pull out that green shadow at 8am in the morning!!hehe). I'm somewhat lazy and can't be bothered to 'spot clean' my brushes. So, what I do is have a spare clean wash cloth near by. And I just rub my brush on there, and voila!!!!

Hope this helps :)

P.S: I came across this ad the other day. As a Graphic Designer, nothing irritates me more than spelling mistakes on ads. Can you spot it? ;) !

What's in my (heavy) bag!

2009-07-11T16:35:00.000-07:00

There's nothing more that I enjoy looking at then what is in everyone's bags!! haha, yes, I admit it!! I'm always curious as to what people carry with them.
As for myself... I was cleaning out my bag today and realized I carry way too much items. No wonder my bag weights as much as a brick...

And yes, your eyes are not fooling you! That is a Snoopy fork/spoon/chopsticks set. I've had wayyyy too many bad experiences going to restaurants, only to find their cutlery are totally gross. So, this is a good idea, regardless of the few weird stares here and there :)

GOSH Haul + R e v i e w s

2009-07-11T01:31:00.000-07:00

My first GOSH purchase :) Here's what I got:

The infamous Velvet Touch Lipstick in 134 Darling
(still makes me look a little corpse-y, but not as bad as other MAC nudes (Blankety, Creme de Nude). This one has a touch of pink in it, and its quiet smooth and moisturizing. Just make sure your lips are in perfect condition before applying this color...)

Effect Powder in Emerald
(a gorgeous deep green; 2.5gms for $15.00 VS MAC pigment's, which are 7.5gm for $20....But I do think I will finish this color eventually, whereas my only MAC Vanilla pigment will never end...)

Extreme Art Eye Liners in 10 (Deep Blue) and 01 (Deep Plum)
(ok, so these are suppose to be super waterproof, and they are. The applicator that they come with is super tiny and easy to use. The color 01 is my new love, it is so gorgeous. Why I got the deep blue one? Well, it's summer, and a pop of color is not a bad idea!!!)

I will definetly be purchasing more from GOSH Cosmetics in the future. I think that, even though they are a bit pricier than most drugstore brands, the quality is amazing. And no funky scent on their products either!! :)

Haul Time :)

2009-06-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist buying a few items from MAC last week during their 25% off event. My only regret: why didn't I order more stuff?! haha!!
Besides MAC goodies, I also picked up a few items from my beloved adambeauty.com. They had sent me a sample of the Primavista Bright Up Base last order, and I fell in love with it! (will do a full review coming up!)

Here's what I got:

MAC:
- Vanilla pigment ( my first pigment; has a gold sheen which I'm trying to get used to?)
- Lipsticks: Snob (pastel pink with blue undertone; very bright!)
Angel (light pink; satin)
Creme Cup (yet another light pink; great for everyday natural lips)
- Pro Eyeshadow Palette [15] (my first! yay! It's a lot smaller than I had imagined!!lol)
- Duo Adhesive (my first; I had used a cheap version, and after waxing off 3 eyelashes on each eye, decided it was time for one)
- Studio Sculpt Concealer in NW15 (totally loving this...it's waterproof and very opaque! Much better than their Studio Finish concealer)

Adambeauty.com:
- Primavista Bright Up Base
- Lavshuca Eye Color Select in PU-2 (the much raved about quad...according to my favorite YouTuber Chefcaffy. And I really like it!!)
- Rohto Lycee Eyedrops for Contacts (heard they're good...)

Massive Mascara Review!!!

2009-06-14T00:47:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the mascaras I've tried out in the past year or so (...ok some have been laying around for longer than that, and let's just say they don't smell so pleasant anymore)

I hope this helps you decide which mascara you might want to try next. These mini reviews on each mascara go from left to right, in accordance to the above image.

1. Estee Lauder: Projectionist High Definition Volume Mascara

This is a sample version that I received from some gift set. I would have to say it is a excellent mascara for separating lashes and lengthening them. This is definitely in my 'top 3 mascaras ever' list. I love the natural look it also gives. I've been meaning to pick up the real thing, but the $30 is putting me off a bit :(

2. Majolica Majorca: Lash Enamel Glamour NEO Mascara

(As stated on a previous review)

I brought this since I wanted to try something new, other than the usual Dior Show [which I always use]. Needless to say, the brush is like a comb, and sometimes it does clump my lashes, so I usually end up going over it with my lash/brow comb [which is time consuming. The mascara is waterproof, which makes it a little harder to take off, thus I spend more time on removing it with my Shu Uemura cleansing oil.

Overall, I will probably not repurchase this, since I did not like the effect it gave my lashes. They were longer, but the look was more natural, but I prefer more of a dramatic look [as I get with my Dior Show mascara].

3. Lancome: Flex WP

**just found out this item is discontinued!**

Well, this mascara is waterproof. It gave a really glossy look to my lashes. And it gave a nice lengthening effect. I feel weird reviewing it now, since I just found out its been discontinued!! I didn't love this mascara, but I didn't hate it either. It was just OK for me.

RIP Flex WP :(

4. Dior: Diorshow Unlimited

Wow, this mascara really sucked! I wanted to try it than the usual Diorshow mascara which I always get from Dior. Dumb dumb idea...this mascara clumps a ton. The look is very unnatural and messy. Horrible formulation.

5. L'Oreal: Voluminous

I think that this mascara is very over-hyped. It smears and smudges a lot on me. Does not exaggerate my lashes all that much. It does, however, give my lashes a lot more volume, but no lengthening at all. It's OK in my book. No strange smell either.

6. Maybelline: Colossal Volum' Express

Wow, just wow. The smell this mascara gives off is unbearable!!!!!!! It stinks like old roses dipped in gasoline! The effect this gave my lashes was nothing incredible; a bit more fuller and longer. Yet, even after having this on for 30 minutes, the smell was still there, and I could smell it throughout the day for several hours. It's so bad, when I got my mom to take a sniff of this tube, she screamed. Yes, it's that bad.
Apparently, this is suppose to be the drugstore version of Diorshow mascara? I think not...it does not do what Diorshow does. Even if it did, I still would not buy it due to the cheap scent.

7. Christian Dior: Diorshow Mascara

(As stated on a previous review)

Being a mascara addict myself, I have tried NEARLY every mascara on the market right now. I am always on the lookout for the best thing out there. And I've been using this mascara since it first came out, several years ago. So, has any mascara beaten Diorshow?

Quiet simply put: no.

This is also in my 'top 3 mascaras ever' list :)

8. Rimmel: Glam' Eyes Mascara

I LOVE THIS MASCARA!!!! Oh my God...thank you MichellePhan once again!! haha.

Seriously, I just got this mascara the other day, and I've been using it everyday with no problems!! It has 2 different sided combs. One side lengthens, and the other separates. The formulation doesn't irritate my eyes, it doesn't smudge, flake or weigh down my eyelashes. This is seriously the best drugstore mascara I have ever tried. I might just live off this forever and be happy with it. Seriously, I love it. At only $10, who can complain?! Excellent formulation, amazing bristles. 10/10!!!

9. Maybelline: Lash Stylist

This mascara does a great job at separating and lengthening lashes. It makes your lashes look fake, which in my mind, is a good thing :)
But taking it off is another story. Even with cleansing oil, it takes a while to take all of it off. It is, however, a bit drying on my lashes and does irritate them if i rub my eyes. I won't be buying it in the future though.

10. Yves St.Laurent: Volume Effet Faux Cils

Ok, so I did not like this a whole lot before. The reason, which I figured out recently, is because you have to clean the wand regularly!! (it even came with instructions stating this, which i chucked away...).
The smell is sooooo nice, like fresh roses (unlike the Maybelline Colossal Mascara...). This mascara does volumize my lashes really well, and gives a fake-lash effect, which I love! I tend to use this only during the nightime, if I'm going out (its a bit too much for daytime wear, i think). At $40, this is the most expensive mascara I've ever bought. It does work like a miracle. But will I buy another one? I'd love to, but not in this economy :)

11. Maybelline: Full N' Soft

This made my lashes full. And incredibly soft. Did not irritate my eyes, and it gives a natural look, in my opinion. I personally like my lashes to look amazingly long and thick (they already are quiet long- I just like to exaggerate things hehe). A great drugstore mascara!

12. Guerlain: Limited Edition Fairy Mascara

I often wonder what I was thinking when I bought this glittery mascara. Then I remind myself that I was 15 or so years old. A waste of money, but it's fun, I'm not going to lie. It makes my eyelashes look like a disco ball. Great for the winter holidays!!! Haha. Or Halloween...

13. Cover Girl- Lash Blast Mascara (Waterproof)

I think that if I got this mascara in the normal, non-waterproof formulation, it wouldn't be so hard to remove. Maybe I will next time.
This mascara is good for separating, and especially volumizing my lashes. It's great for everyday, but don't expect anything amazing from it. The formulation is OK, but this version does irritate my eyes. And it smudges as well. The brush itself, however, is really easy to use.

Too Pale?

2009-06-07T16:02:00.001-07:00

*edit: the last image I used was kinda depressing. So, here's a pic of me attacking my friend. :)

I've only in the recent years have embraced my 'paleness', even though I get comments like "get a tan!" or "you need some color, hun" regularly. Now, naturally I've always been pale. Not in a sickly looking way, but I am just pale in general. My relative yesterday stated "your skin is so white...like snow...". Although she said white skin is prettier than tanned, damaged skin, it's too bad not everyone looks at it that way in today's society.

Normally, I have no problem defending my natural complextion, but sometimes, I, too, get lured into products that help give you a "natural tan" without the harmful effects of the sun. Sounds good enough for me, I suppose (I've been praising SPF since I really got into skincare, back almost 9 years ago). I used to have really blotchy skin, due to not wearing sunscreen ever, prior to turning 14. But that has cleared up thanks to using SPF and other things. So, these items, most commonly bronzers, usually look so unatural on me, since I am so fair, and it just looks like either: A. I chose the wrong foundation shade or B. I forgot to add SPF on certain parts of my face. Nicely put, they look hideous on me, and very UNnatural.

So, this is what happened to me today. I got lured at the local Guerlain counter today. The lady stopped me, and insisted I try one of their new bronzers. And before I could even answer to that, she grabbed her big fluffy (and scratchy) brush, dipped it into the sample, and attached my face and neck with it (ok, that's putting it a bit too harsh, but you get the idea!). I've also known this saleswoman for years, and so, I trusted her (i think?).

Anyways, she tried it on, I looked into the mirror, and I had a little color on my skin. Didn't look too bad. My mom even tried it on. The packaging, I must say, was pretty nice. I do admit I am easily fooled by fancy packagings (even thought I am a Graphic Designer, and should know better!).

77 dollars later, I am now in my car. As I examined my face in natural sunlight, I was in shock to see it turn orange. Here I am, heading to the airport, looking like I had nothing better to do on a sunday morning than to play around with my makeup. I then quickly try to blend it out.

I get home later on, trying to take a nap, and feel bad. I can't sleep. What a dumb thing to have done! Here I am, proclaming that I "love my pale skin", and I go and buy a over-priced bronzer, it looks bad on me, and I know that I won't be using it. And did I mention it cost a shitload?! What was I thinking...(ah, I guess this is what happens when you skip breakfast, people...)

Why do we do these things to ourselves? These contradictions? Is it a spur of the moment thing? Or do we all want to change something inside of ourselves?

For now, I have decided, who cares with what others think about my complextion. I'm not going to try to hide what I am on the outside. I've come to realize that, most people who are insecure with their looks tend to make remarks concerning my looks. And I do realize that, but I never take it to heart. I think that, regardless of what you look like, as long as you're happy with yourself, INSIDE AND OUT, who cares what others around you think. You might not like an aspect of yourself, but someone else will find that trait beautiful. You just never know. All that matters is that you are happy, first and foremost, with yourself, because no product will help you do that.

As for the bronzer, it is going back to the department store tomorrow :)

xoxo

P.S: Here is what it looks like. Nice packaging though eh? ;)

Review: Lavshuca Gradate Eye Shadow in Br-2

2009-06-03T16:39:00.000-07:00

This quad comes with 4 colors in a unique case. I decided to try this brown palette since it is more practical for everyday use.

The colors are quiet sheer. You can barely see the colors on your lid; it just comes off very natural. The most pigmented color in the quad is the dark brown shade, which is great for lining your lashline. The colors are quiet shimmery, but in a pretty way, not glittery. But don't expect anything too pigmented; this is definitely great for daytime use, and I think you could take it into nighttime if you use more of the darker shade on the crease.

Overall, I do want to try out the other shades that Lavshuca offers, probably something more striking, and not so neutral as with this palette. I would also recommend this palete to anyone looking for something affordable ($18) and allows you to try out various looks, from daytime to nighttime :)

Haul

2009-06-03T16:34:00.000-07:00

Some new things I got off of Adambeauty.com:

Lavshuca Dual Eyes in Gn-1 & Sv-1
Lavshuca Gradate Eye Shadow in Br-2
KATE Cheek in Pk-1 & Rd-1
KATE Trick Eyes in BU-1

Will do a review on these products coming up!