...For IN and OUT Beauty...

It's Not Fair!

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:26:00 +0000

Hi Beauties!
Long time no post! Hope everything is well with you guys. I've been kind of depressed and couldn't eat, sleep and post due to my home buying nightmare. It's not finished still and I don't know what to think at this moment.
The property I'm buying is 1.5 miles away from the beach and it's a townhouse style condo, I can't possibly afford a house near ocean. So, one of the homeowners (not the unit I'm buying) did some remodeling without the condo Association approval and the association is suing him. BECAUSE of this Bank Of America is refusing to give me a loan. Everything from my side was perfect and because of someone else's mistake I can't get a loan??? It is so hard to comprehend but I guess banks are getting super strict, so strict that it even doesn't make any sense!
So, if you're thinking to buy a condo, make sure to find out if there's any lawsuits as banks get nervous about it.

On the good note, I've finished with my 20 Pan Project! It benefited me in many ways:

Cleared my clutter making space for new items
Encouraged me to use up the products. I used to go to bed without applying body lotion or hand cream while I've had dozen products laying around.
Saved me $500-$800 at least. After discovering Youtube and Beauty Blogs my spending on beauty products and make ups was getting out of control. I haven't bought anything for 2 months
No more uncontrollable urge to shop

Product #16
Olay Age Defying In-Shower Body Lotion

It saves time, moisturizes well, gives nice golden shimmer and easy to use. Just smooth over and rinse in shower.
Cons: The scent is very strong and leaves your shower slippery.

Product #17
Aussie 3 min Miracle Hair Mask.

So affordable at $3.99 performs as well as expensive hair treatments. Smart packaging, just squeeze needed amount, no caps no mess. Leaves my hair noticeably smoother and manageable with less frizz. Not a big fan of it's scent.

Product #18

Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector $39.50

It claims to erase discoloration and dark spots. Since I'm exposed to sun everyday of the year I have tons of sun damages. Unfortunately, I didn't see any change with this product. Needs 4-5 pumps to cover my face, so you run out of it quickly.

Product #19
Shiseido Hydro-Nourishing Softener

I just can't live without it. Saturated in cotton pad it cleans out left over dirt and prepares my skin for next steps of skincare regime.

Product #20
Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash

Great in the morning when you don't need a cleanser for removing your make up. Removes overnight oil and dirt and micro beads polishes your skin preparing it for perfect make up. I did a detailed review HERE.

This project was easier than I expected! Yay!

Thanks Beauties for reading!
Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

Lost 6 lbs With This and 20 Pan project Update

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 22:43:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
I used to be a girl who wouldn't gain an ounce no matter how much I ate.....looong time ago....
Three years ago I've turned to a gal who has to work out constantly to maintain the weight.
Usually I walk (won't lie by saying that I run) 5 days a week up the Mt. Hollywood and do muscle toning exercises in the evening. All this hard work just maintained my weight at 123 lbs. If I stop walking my weight would easily go up to 129 lbs in a week.
But now I'm 117 lbs and maintaining for a month. It's a Miracle! WHY? Cuz I haven't even walked nor worked out last month due to the house hunting!
My diet is in disorder due to the stress and I'm even eating more.

Only GOOD thing I did for myself last month was: I replaced coffee with Green Tea.
I read somewhere that green tea makes the waist tiny and I was sold. I mean, we all heard so many good things about green tea before but idea about tiny waist sounded way more appealing and encouraging!
So now I'm a green tea addict and my favorite is Jasmine Green Tea. I drink 4-5 cups a day. I've added a cup of Black Tea a day after hearing that it prevents breast cancer.
The green tea is really helping with my waist by burning my ugly tummy fat! :)
I'm positive that my new addiction played an important role in my weight loss. So ladies, give it a try. You have nothing to lose (other than inches from your waist ) but have so much to gain (health and beauty wise)!

Now on to my 20 Pan Project Update! Loving this project! It made me save so much money. I used to spend $150-$400 a month on beauty products and I haven't spent a penny since I've started this project in June.

Product #13
Shisedo Sun Protection Liquid Foundation SPF 42 PA +++

My HG Foundation! I'm not panicking cuz I have a back up. I did a review on it HERE

Product #14
Victoria's Secret So Sexy Shampoo & Conditioner

It smells nice and sexy. Decent shampoo. I couldn't wait to finish it so I can start my Tsubaki Shampoo that I hauled not long ago.

Product #15
Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Body Glimmer Swirl Cream in Honey Do

I loved its realistic honey dew scent. Like the subtle glimmer (not shimmer) of it on my arms and legs.

5 More products to go! It was easier than I expected!

Thanks Beauties for reading!
Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

Quick Update: Some Suggestions on Home Buying

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 01:17:00 +0000

Hi Beauties,
I hope you're doing fabulous!
I've found 3 white hairs today and freaking out! hahaha I know it's because of all the stress of home buying. Ladies, be prepared and learn from some of my mistakes! :)
Last Wednesday was my home inspection day and I've never expected anything bad. However, my inspector guy has detected moisture issues, like possible water leak, cuz his moisture meter showed way more than normal level of moisture in baseboards (Standard is 6% of moisture, acceptable maximum moisture 12%, but the measurement at my home was 16-18% ) He's also discovered possible mold growth in couple places. (again because of the moisture)
Lessons I've learned so far:
1) Don't hesitate to pay for house inspection! It might be the best money you've ever spent! ($250-$500)
2) Interview many many again many Realtors and choose the best one who'd work for your best interest! WHY?
The inspector guy recommended more invasive inspection that only water specialists can do to determine the source of the moisture issues. Ok! So who pays for that? I've paid for my general inspection and I wanted to request the seller to pay for more invasive inspection but my realtor who supposed to work for my best interest said that I have to pay for it. I said I don't want to pay for it. Good thing that the sellers agent was present at the inspection.
You won't believe what my agent said! I quote, she said, "Maybe we'll leave the place with open windows for couple days so the moisture level will go down and so the seller won't have to pay for the extra inspection"
At that moment I had to put her on her place. I had to tell her that she's not the sellers agent and it's not her obligation to look after the sellers best interest but the buyers best interest. My best interest was to learn the source of the problem and fix it so it wouldn't happen again. So I had to talk directly to the sellers agent to request the seller to pay for more invasive inspection and pay for correction of the problems. Guess what? The seller agreed to pay for extensive inspection and correct all the problems! However the sellers agent wanted to convince me that it was normal because the property was near the beach but my inspector said it wouldn't justify the moisture level.
Before that my realtor kind of argued with me saying and I quote, " Well, usually sellers say NO!"
I just said to her "Let's see what the seller says!"
So the lesson is: NOBODY NOBODY NOBODY will fully work for your best interest other THAN YOU!!! You're the ONLY ONE who'll really protect yourself!
After that, my agent said: "OK, now I realize that it's possible!" I just wanted to pull all my hair off because she said that she has 20 years of experience yet she's just learning about this kind of negotiation??? So ladies, be VERY VERY CAREFUL who you choose for your agent!
It was evident that initially they saw me as a young Asian girl who is so innocent and sweet but NOW they all know that I can kick their asses and they can't mess with me! Business is a business! Home buying is not an exception! (And I have to mention that I'm not even disclosing even more embarrassing facts about them!)
So ladies, be tough and stand your ground! Do your home works and researches so you can kick some incompetent asses in the future, cuz there're plenty of them! I thought I'd never go wrong with Century 21 but I was wrong! I guess I've stuck with the bad apple! Hahaha!

Thanks for reading Beauties!
Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

Sheet Mask Relaxation and 20 Pan Project Update

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 19:07:00 +0000

Hi Beauties,
It's been a week since my last post. Buying a home is one of the biggest events of ones life. Therefore it's exciting, challenging, upsetting, rewarding, stressful, blissful, confusing, educational and beyond....
So far escrow is going smooth. We've ordered appraisal and scheduled the inspection for Tuesday. But one thing is bugging me.... Another property I really really liked became available and here I am in the middle of the escrow wanting different house. I never thought that I would be in this kind of situation as I thought I was a very decisive person. Now I just can't decide, haha
Finally, yesterday I had a chance to put a sheet mask and relax.

After I put the sheet mask I like to saturate a cotton pad with left over liquid and...

...apply it on my neck. I think it helps my wrinkly neck a bit.

I love to spray my pillow with Aromatherapy Mists before I lay down with my mask.

My absolute favorite: Bath and Body Works Lavender Chamomile Pillow Mist

I'm resting my nails too. No polish during weekends! Do you see the yellowing on my nail? That's the downside of nail polishes :(

Now let's move on to my 20 Pan Project Update.
You should try this, ladies! It's not hard as Makeup Pan projects. It's easy and good for your beauty.
I have many lotions and creams laying here and there and still used to buy more. What's worse is that I wasn't using them on regular basis. Sometimes I was too lazy to put a body lotion before bed.
This project is encouraging and pushing me to use the products I have and it ultimately benefits me.

Product #7

Victoria's Secret Body Butter in Love Spell
My all time favorite scent
Great to use after bath or shower when your skin is warm and moist. The butter just melts and sinks in. Most of the time you can buy on sales like 5for $30 or 7for $35

Product #8
VS Body Scrub in Love Spell
It's a sugar scrub and lathers up very well. I love it for its scent.

Product #9
VS Beauty Rush in Honey Do
Body Drink Lotion
Love the Honey Dew scent. So sweet and realistic. I like to use it before sleep as my bedtime snack. Very light and moisturizing lotion.

Product #10 Shiseido White Lucent Whitening Eye Treatment
$50
I bought it in hopes for reducing my dark sun spots around my eyes cause the claim:
Specially developed with Shiseido's own Spot Deacti Complex, this lightweight cream addresses both melanin formation and poor local microcirculation, two major causes of dark circles. The Dark Circle Targeting Complex reduces melanin and diminishes the appearance of melanin pigments.
BUT unfortunately it didn't do anything for me. I haven't noticed the slightest change. This is the only product from Shiseido that let me down.

Product#11
De-luxe Foaming Body Scrub
in Rosemary Mint
Nice minty scent, good foaming, Apricot seeds really work hard on rough spots
Cheap $6 for 500 ml

Product# 12
Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist SPF 70
Nice cooling feel as you apply. I love it except for its strong scent. Kind of masculine scent so strong that competes with my perfume and actually wins over and everybody near me would think that I have a bad taste in fragrance, hahaha

Thank you beauties for reading!
Stay beautiful!
xoxo

Update and Mending Broken Powder Makeup

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 01:30:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
How you've been?
Long time no post, I know! Last few days were hectic! Some of you might know that I'm trying to buy a home and it's nothing close to a piece of cake, I tell you.
I thought, since the market is slow it would be much easier but every home I liked had multiple offers and they're getting sold for more than their listing price. My realtor says that its typical during summer.
So, finally I've received a counter offer to my offer and I had to negotiate and sent counter counter offer which has been accepted today. That's why I'm feeling a little more relaxed and checking your blogs out ladies! :)
My realtor said that the hardest part is yet to come when we open escrow on Monday. :(
Now, on to the beauty related stuff.
A while ago I read a How to post on Katrina Is The Princess blog on how to repair your broken powder makeup and decided to mend my most favorite MAC blush in Joyous (LE)

My poor blush... I broke it while depotting it...:(

Now thanks to gorgeous Katrina I was able to make it all better!

She said Rubbing Alcohol is OK and you'll need a spoon... that's all..
So, I've added 1/2 tablespoon of alcohol on my blush...
It turns to a paste which you can shape however you want...

....and VOILA!

Now we have to wait for the alcohol to evaporate and blush to dry. By next day it's ready to use! Yay! I'm so happy that my favorite blush is in one piece!

Thanks Beauties for reading!

Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

Korean SPA Full Body Scrub, NOTD

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 21:51:00 +0000

Hi Beauties,

If you haven't been to Korean SPA and haven't tried their Full Body Scrub you should definitely try it. But it's not for ladies who are body shy because you have to be butt naked.
Let me take you through it:
It costs around $50
They'll give you wrist band with the number and key to the locker. You leave all the earthy stuff in there and enter to shower area to clean yourself. You'll find shampoo, conditioner and soap next to every shower.
Then you can use the steam rooms, sauna or dip yourself in hot tea tub till your number is yelled in Korean and English by a lady in black bra and granny.
She'll take you to side area with plastic covered tables. You get on it and let her do the job. I have to say it's totally different from other relaxing and pampering atmosphere spas. It's done raw. You just have to go with it. The result is amazing!
So the lady in black granny will start scrubbing you from your earlobes to your toes without leaving an inch. You won't believe what will come out of you! Big gray balls of dead skin will surround you. You'll be happy knowing that you got rid of them.
She'll rinse you, soap you and give you massage on your back and legs. It kind of hurts but we need it.
Then she'll sit you up and put face cleanser on your palms so you wash your face. After that she'll ask you to go to shower to rinse yourself clean. That time you'll feel your hands sliding off of your skin because it's super smooth.
When you come back to the table she'll cover your body with what I believe honey milk and put freshly made cucumber mask on your face. Then she'll wash your hair and give a head massage at the same time.
After that she'll rinse off everything and apply lotion on your body and you good to go but nowhere near the water.
Wow, feeling good as new you can go and sleep on heated floor room or watch TV or go through magazines while drinking coffee and having some fruit snacks they have in there.
The whole scrubbing thing takes around 1,5-2 hours and of course you can sleep as long as you want after that.
I'm hooked and try to go once a month for this scrub. The ladies work so hard and I think it should be more expensive but you leave them good tip with provided envelope and it's all good!
So ladies if you have Korean community nearby you'll find Korean SPA for sure and the procedure is very much standard. I've been to 3 different ones and it all was pretty much the same.

Between my scrubs I try to maintain my body skin without dead ones with this sponge.

Buf-Puf Body Sponge
Around $6
developed by 3M

I use it everyday and don't feel clean unless I use it. It works with any shower gel and foams them good. White side is for whole body and the blue side is for rough spots. You can buy online drugstore.com or at Walmart and Target I hope.
If you won't squeeze it it'll last you a long time. I just flick it to get rid of water after use.

Lastly, NOFD: Zoya in Barbie. Very pretty pink!

Zoya in Barbie
Zoya.com

Thank you beauties for reading!
Stay Bautiful!
xoxo

Black and Teal Nail Design (Requested)

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 06:00:00 +0000

Hi Beauties,
I've received a request to do Black and Teal Nail design long ago and finally came up with something! Hope you'll like it! :)

My hand looks odd...but I was just playing with my pearl pendant:)

NOTD and 20 Pan Project Update

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 04:02:00 +0000

Hi Beauties!
Here's a very pretty nail polish for summer if you are uncomfortable with bright and neon polishes which are so hot right now. Or if you're bored from modest "work appropriate" polishes and want to go a little bit bolder then try opaque polishes like this one.
First, I saw it on my bank teller girl's fingers and it looked gorgeous on her. I complimented on her nails and she was so sweet to tell me the name of the polish. Orly in "Kiss The Bride" ($5.99 at Sally's)
She said that she looked for this kind of color for months and finally found the perfect one.

2 coats (Very opaque cream finish)

This picture isn't doing any justice. I was afraid that it would make my now 2-3 shades darker hands look even darker but it did the opposite. It actually made them look lighter although this picture looks different.
It's not plain white. It's the prettiest, lightest light pink.

Compared to the plain white paper
I think this picture shows more realistic color of it
I really like it!

Now, on to my 20 Pan Project Update. For those who don't know about it, it's basically my commitment to finish any 20 beauty related products before buying new products.
From my just finished Feng Shui book I've learned that we, human beings hoard too much things we don't need and use yet still keep buying. That creates clutter which affects every aspect of our lives. If we really need to buy something then we need to make space for new one. So I'm making space for new products. It's gonna be FUN to shop after I finish the project!
As some of you know Lulu and Edna already finished their 20 Pan Project. Congratulations girls! Awesome job!

So I've finished thus far:

Bath & Body Works Body Lotion in Warm Vanilla Sugar

It has a very sweet scent as you can imagine from its name. Good during winter time to feel the comfort of it. Also I use it before I go to bed for my night time snack. Body looses it's moisture during night so we have to put body lotion before sleeping.

Shiseido Aqualabel Moist Emulsion
Around $30 (130 ml)

Wanted to try drugstore brand of Shiseido skin care item and it worked good. I used it for daytime moisturizer under my makeup. I can't stand heavy creamy texture on my skin and never use day creams. I use emulsions for its liquidy light texture. This one has very light scent and didn't break me out at all. Maybe I'll try its whitening one next time.

True Blue SPA Foot Cream

It was a life saver, or rather foot saver for me during times when I spend a whole day on my feet (shopping) I come home with burning, swollen feet or aching pinched toes and apply this cream and its Eucalyptus Extract cools down my feet and erases the pain. Also the Shea butter in it moisturizes and smooths rough spots.

Evian Mineral Water Spray

It moisturizes upper layers of the skin and refreshes during sticky hot summer time or in dry office and airplanes. Since it's just a pure water it's safe to spray all over your face without worrying about the eye and lip area.

Thanks Beauties for reading!
Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

The Perfect Bra

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:49:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
I just finished reading a Feng Shui book and wanted to share something with you ladies. I read that it's bad to wear a bra with underwire as it may be one of the causes of breast cancer. The author, Karen Kingston, says that everything has energy and metal wires act as antenna to conduct harmful electromagnetic fields from computers and TV set.
She also mentions that "In countries where women have only recently began wearing bras, breast cancer is only now becoming known".
Now, I'm thinking to toss my underwire bras. They were uncomfortable anyways!
I own most of Victoria's Secret bras and love just one which I strongly recommend to every one!

It's Very Sexy Wireless Push Up Bra!

Now I'm thinking to get every color from this bra. You won't compromise ANYTHING with this one.

It's SO COMFORTABLE
Supportive
Perfect cup shape- you know how some bras have weird cup shapes: too pointy sharp, too saggy, too far, too close and so on
The cut is perfect. Not too high so whenever you want to look sexy and wear top with cleavage the bra wouldn't show up
Satin, so it's smooth under tight clothes, no bumps and texture
Wireless
Infinity Edge eliminates visible lines under clothes
VERY SEXY
Price $45 Now on Sale $33.50

But I just got one for $19.99 at the store. It was sage color. The other colors like black and nude weren't on sale at all. I guess it depends on colors.
Since they are having semi annual sale I also got me silk summer robe:
It was already on sale for $35 but they've had additional 50% off on sleepwear so I got it for around $18. Yay! Silk kimono style robe for $18??? It's light as a feather and feels so good on my skin. I feel like a butterfly!
So, ladies please consider wireless bras and have a great LOOONG Holiday Weekend!

Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

Foundation Tag, Awards, NARS Loose Powder Review

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 19:20:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
I've been tagged long ago by Hottie Katrina M to do a post on products used to create my canvas such as foundations, concealers and powders. She has amazing makeup skill and I love her hair, long, healthy and shiny! Check her blog out, it's very entertaining!
I used to be a Tinted Moisturizer Girl cuz I couldn't stand heavy feel of liquid foundations and flat matte look of powder foundations.
Laura Mercier Tinted moisturizer in Nude ($42) was good for a while till I felt I needed more coverage.
Since I live in So Cal, sun damage is inevitable: trip to beaches, driving for about 2 hours a day, sitting in a traffic jam with sun in your face and so on... hahaha!

Left to Right: My HG Shiseido, Estee Lauder Double Wear Light and Mineral BB Cream

As some of you know my Holly Grail foundation is Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation SPF 42 PA +++
My shade is Sp 50
I did a detailed review HERE and would recommend to everyone to give it a chance!

Now on to Estee Lauder Double Wear Light SPF 10 in Intensity 2

I used to use it before I found my Shiseido.
This is that perfect medium between tinted moisturizer and liquid foundation. Tinted moisturizer was too light of a coverage but on the other hand liquid foundation was too heavy for me. This one is light with decent coverage and great staying power.
It didn't break me out and doesn't cake on my combination skin.
Natural and dewy finish.
Foundation shades are so tricky! Don't you think looking at the picture? Even though it looks darker it still a good match for my skin tone.

Mineral BB Cream SPF 15 Shade: Skin Beige

My mom gave me this b/c it works good for her. Well, she's lighter than me and has dry skin.
To me it felt very heavy, creamy and gives cakey finish. Also it was too light for my shade so I've mixed it with Everyday Minerals in Medium Tan to get a perfect match.

now, I just mix it with my finger and Voila...

You can customize your foundation shades like this...

I have to say that it has a very good coverage but because of the heavy feel and cakey finish I wouldn't recommend it.

Now on to concealers!
Sonia Kashuk Concealer Palette in Hidden Agenda.
I thought I'd give it a shot since it's got Allure Editors Choice Award. You can see I already have dents. I like it. It works good for concealing my under eye darkness and redness on my cheeks.
It has neutral, green and salmon shades with setting powder. I mix the green and neutral ones for my redness and neutral and salmon for my under eye circles.
To the right is my Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place Concealer:
I have it in 02 Medium. What I like about it most is that it stays all day till I remove it. The only concern is that it has a tendency to settle into fine lines and make them more noticeable. So if you don't have fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes it would be the perfect concealer.
I use it on my "not wrinkly" places, hahaha, like my eyebrows! WHAAAT? Yes, you've heard me me right! I have a bad tattoo on my brows! One of the the mistakes of my youth! hahaha...
This concealer totally conceals the ugly tattoo leaving me a perfect canvas to shape my brows the way I want. That's why I love it!
Now, the product that I'm most excited about sharing with you ladies!
My NARS Loose Powder in Eden! I'm doing this review for gorgeous Steph who asked me about my loose powder.
Here's why I can't live without it: All of the sudden I've noticed that more and more people start complimenting on my complexion: at work, banks, supermarkets and malls. They would ask what skin care products I use? So I'm thinking, "I haven't changed anything about my skincare and makeup aside adding this NARS loose powder" This is it! This powder is making my complexion look better!
So here goes the review:
Price- $34
Size- 1.5 oz/ 45g
Don't let the price discourage you! You're getting a lot of product for your money so I consider it cheap. It will last you a looong time.
It comes in 5 shades and the "Eden" is perfect for yellow undertone and medium skin tones.
It doesn't give much coverage and color thou.
I use it as a make up setter and it gives just an amazing satiny finish: not cakey, not matte just perfect polished finish.
Also, it controls the mid day shine on my t-zone. I apply in the morning and it keeps the shine away almost all day.
It's a must for summer!
It comes with a powder puff which I threw away cuz that didn't work for me. Instead I like to use a big powder brush to lightly dust over my face.
I'm in love! Never thought that loose powders make such difference in complexion.

To the right is my Shiseido Powdery Foundation SPF 15 in I-20 Natural Light Ivory
It's convenient to carry around in my purse for a touch up. But I rarely need a touch up when I have my Shiseido Liquid Foundation and NARS Loose powder on.
So ladies these are what I use for my canvas. Now I tag lovely ladies who gave me following Awards. Thank you, beautiful Christel and Twinsouls for these awards! I'm honored!

Thank you cutie Chomfifi and Sassy Jadore for this wonderful award:
Thank you sweet Krystal for Kreativ Blog award:

You guys are AWESOME!
Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

Sassy Jadore's Summer Look Contest Entry

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:45:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties! This is my entry to sweet Sassy Jadore's Summer Look contest for Summer Makeup or / and Summer Outfit Look. She likes fashion and always has awesome Japanese Fashion and Makeup magazine scans on her blog. So make sure to check her blog out! Thank you hun, for Summery and Happy Contest!
Summer, summer! Oh how I love summer! I love to spend most of summer at the beach cuz it's cooler near the ocean and I love sun and sand! My favorite beach I often go to is Malibu Beach- my Makeup Inspiration.

Golden sand, turquoise water and blue sky!

I prefer my summer eye makeup easy breezy wash of colors so it wouldn't be too bright and heavy.

I like to keep my summer eyecolors closer to the eye leaving clean area till brow.

Makeup used:

Face:

Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation SPF 42 in SP50
NARS Loose Powder in Eden
Estee Lauder Stay-in-Place Concealer SPF 10 in Light
Sonia Kashuk Concealer in Hidden Agenda
MAC Skin Mineralize Duo
Mac Powder Blush in Dollymix

Eyes:

Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Jordana Brow Pencil in Coffee Bean
MUFE Aqua Eyes Liner OL
MAC Zoom Lash Mascara
MAC e/s in Gorgeous Gold
MAC e/s in Talent Pool
MAC e/s Moon's Reflection

Lips:

MAC lippie in Ahoy There!
MAC HK Lipglass in Fast Friends

Summer Outfit Inspiration Pictures:
There are many summer trends: floral, color blocking, prints, statement jewelries, neutrals and so on. Too many choices. I love colors and floral and to my surprise today I was in a mood for neutral classic with masculine touch!
White blazers are hot this summer. It brings the summery crispness to any outfit!

Blazer- mom's vintage
Be Your Own Awesome tee from ZARA
F21 Skirt with belt
Linea Pelle Bag
Carlos Santana Sandals

Love skirts with pockets
Some bangles to add feminine touch to the blazer

BE YOUR OWN AWESOME!!!
Written in rhinestones.
I love this tee, nice message! And it makes the outfit casual!
Thank you sweetie for AWESOME Contest!
xoxo

Luluchinadoll's love package and 20 Pan Project

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 08:02:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!

I won cutie Lulu's Summer Giveaway Grand Prize! Please check her out! She has very informative product reviews and makes cute jewelry. She's got it all: cute, creative, sweet and talented!
I'm sooo happy the prizes are awesome!

Let's get right to it:

Her package was so cute and neat, had cute Hello Kitty and Star stickers around my address!

Look at all the goodies she's sent me! I'm a one lucky girl!

Thank you, sweetie! You're such a doll!

I just love her handwriting, so neat and perfect!

First, the cute stuff: The cutie mouse key chain! Did you notice the bells on its neck? They make such soothing sound! Hello Kitty stamp and band aids. How cute? And the adorable Hippo eraser with legs that move! CUTE!!!Now, on to yummy stuff! I love Pocky. It took me great patience to take picture before I ate it! To go Green Teas will come in handy at work! Thank you, hun!

OMG! Korres Body Scrub in Watermelon! I really needed some body scrub after my sunburn in Vegas! Can't wait to try it! Crabtree and Evelyn Peel of Mask! I'm trying it tonight! Lulu was so kind to write me the best way to use it. You're such a sweetheart! And my first Urban Decay Lip Gloss! Yay! I've tried it and love it!

The texture and feel is awesome, non sticky and smooth! Lot's of shimmer and sparkle! Thank you Lulu!

Last but not least, the thing I'm most excited about is her creation, Summer Bracelet!!! Oh, how much I love it! It has charms associated with summer: flip flops, Popsicle, sunhat, watermelon slice, ice cream, heart (as "Summer Love") and a cupcake!

It lifted my spirit up and made me wanna go and have all the fun I can have during summer! It brought me joy! BIG Thank you cutie Lulu! You're so creative and talented! I just adore the bracelet!

As some of you ladies know Lulu and Edna did 20 pan project. I wanted to join but they've already done with it, but they're gonna do the make up only 10 pan project soon.

The great thing about their 20 pan project was that it could be any products such as body, skin care or make up. It makes it more doable and motivating. So I'm following their 20 pan project to prepare and motivate myself for their real make up only 10 pan challenge!

I'm starting my 20 pan project with these 2 items:

My HG Shiseido Lasting Lift Mascara: Keeps your curls up until you remove it! Read more

Shiseido Sun Protection Lotion For face And Body SPF 33 PA++

Liquidy texture feels so light especially for face. Love it! I'm not freaking out it's finished cuz I have a back up! Yay!

I'll be happy if someone would do it too!

Thank you again and again lovely Lulu! You're such a doll! Mwwwa!

NOFD: Beyonce Inspired Night Out Nails

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 23:21:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
Here's a super easy design good for night out, clubbing, party or concerts.
I was reading Marie Claire magazine June 2009 issue and saw the article about Beyonce's World Tour and Pictures of her stage costumes. Famous designer Thierry Mugler made her clothes and they are awesome!
I liked the silver and black one and was inspired to do this design. Also she has silver and black nails on the pictures too but with her husband's picture and name on them.

I've used:
Base coat from Rimmel
Black polish by Nina
Silver polish by Zoya in Trixie - very pigmented. 1 coat was enough to create the look
Top coat by Cina Glaze in Fast Forward
Hope you'll enjoy it!

Vegas Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 01:25:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
Thank you all for your kind words and wishes! I've had a great trip and enjoyed ever so fabulous Vegas!
It was very hot and windy there unlike LA. Surprisingly LA was gloomy and cold lately and I didn't go to the beach. Therefore had no tan. But I've got a year worth tan in one day in Vegas!
Now on to pictures...
Our room was clean and comfortable with hot tub and TV set in the bathroom. But my most favorite thing was this mirror. Made my "makeup application life" much easier! hahaha

In front of the hotel

The beach area
It opens at 8am and people start lining up around 7am to get a chair! We've made it early and I'm continuing my sleep here...

Still pale picture

I wouln't have survived the heat without icy Margarita...and..

my favorite Haagen Dazs Dulce De Leche
Now this is the sun burnt picture
Luxor Hotel Casino
Inside Luxor
My legs are so tan
I love casino carpets. Millions of people walk on them day and night but no sign of wear and fading. Drunk people smoke in casinos but no burnt spots. I wonder how they maintain it.
Paris Paris is far behind. See the replica Eiffel Tower? There are elevators that take you all the way up the tower. Vegas night looks beautiful from there.
Replica of Victory Gate, Paris France
Next to the Paris Paris Hotel Casino
You should try the roller coaster at New York New York
I haven't tried myself... too chicken...hahaha
Excalibur Hotel Casino
Very kid friendly with kids arcade games
Pussycat Dolls Casino
The sexiest dressed dealers I've ever seen.. See the girls with red hat, silver corset and fishnets?

I just can't pass these without reading. These crack me up all the time! I hope the picture will enlarge when you click on it so you can read some...

M & M's World
You absolutely have to get one of these Yard Long Cocktails! Vegas experience is not complete without this bad boy!

Ahhh! m & m's heaven.... mmmmm
Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
Mz. Goldberg
And of course the Sephora on Vegas strip
Didn't buy anything for myself cuz I'm thinking to join Lulu and Abcgirl's 20 pan challenge.
I bought something for my next giveaway but it's a secret!
Wanted to buy Dior Addict Lip Glow for Katrina M (it was on her wish list) but they totally ran out of it. Seems like a very popular product!
Last but not least the Las Vegas Mc Carran International Airport
Look how awesome it is! Slot machines in waiting rooms! I was like WHAAAT? Great way to kill some time while you wait for your plane!

There are too many things to do and see in Vegas that you can't complete even in couple visits. Vegas is fabulous. I love how women transform there. Day time, most of the ladies had beachy style clothes: bikini and cover ups or short sundresses. No maxis in Vegas! Gotta show some skin in Vegas! Lot's of gladiator sandals, not much of flip flops.
Night time: killer heels, stand out clutches, beautiful make up and hair, little black dresses.
Even though I'm into opposite sex I still enjoy watching beautiful women who take care after themselves.
Another thing I've noticed is a lot of ladies were reading the Twilight saga, young and old, pool area and plane.
Lot's of New Moon and Eclipse. I was relieved to see another girl reading Twilight. Whew! I'm not the only one who's behind! hahaha
So Beauties, this was my weekend in Vegas. Thank you ladies who gave me awards, I'll get to it soon. Welcome my new beautiful readers! I'll check out and follow your blogs soon! I have lot's of catching up to do!

Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

Vegas Getaway: What Is In My Travel Makeup Bag

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:03:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
I'm leaving to Las Vegas for Fathers Day weekend tomorrow. Heading to the BEACH in the DESERT. Yeah, you've read it right.
Mandalay Bay Hotel has 11 acres pool with sand and it is in fact called BEACH! The pool has waves just like ocean.
I've been to Vegas a few times and never had a chance to really enjoy the hotels amenities cuz we used to walk around to see everything Vegas has to offer. This time I'm planning to just relax and chill with a cocktail in my hand at the hotel's beach area. Also will stop by Sephora on Vegas Strip to pick up some stuff for my next giveaway. That's it!
The beach area is for hotel guests only so we had to shell out some greens to book a room at Mandalay Bay in order to enjoy it. Well, I think spending money on experience is the best way to spend money. Experience and memories are the things that last forever.

So what am I packing?
Before we used to drive and I used to pack heavy but now we're flying and we're not gonna check in any luggage. So, it's kinda tough cuz I have to fit every fluid stuff in 1 quart Ziploc bag according to the new flight security requirement.

I'm taking one MAC eyeshadow palette

So after a struggle to choose only much needed products, these are what I'm taking with me.

To my surprise I did a good job fitting everything I needed. So, what's in here?

The samples came in handy!

Bath and Body Works Hand Sanitizer
Shiseido Eye makeup remover sample
Estee Lauder Cleansing Foam
Shiseido White Lucent Softener
Shiseido White Lucent Eye cream
Clarins Day Cream sample
Shiseido Bio performance cream as a night cream
Neutrogena Sun Block SPF 70- Thank you Katrina M
Purse size perfume
Victoria's Secret Refreshing Body Mist- nice and light perfect for beach and airplanes
Evian Water Spray-airplanes are crazy drying and it helps a lot
My HG Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation
Estee Lauder Stay in Place Concealer
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Shiseido Lastin Lift Mascara Sample
L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara

Whew, what a long list....and it's not it!
Now on to non liquid items that I absolutely have to take with me:

Too Faced Bronzer in Snow Bunny- for my body. It's not really a bronzer. It gives beautiful glow to my shoulders and legs. Hit the pan! See how much I love it?
My HG Nars Loose Powder in Sephora refillable brush
Mac Mineralize Duo- I don't know how to live without it
Q-tips and cotton pads- use them everyday
Mac travel brushes
Almay eyeliner
Jordana Brow pencil
Stila eyeliner
Tweezerman
Compact Eyelash curler

These are all the things I can't live without.

Now did you notice that I didn't pack a blush???
Blush will go to the front pocket of my purse! (Kenneth Cole New York)

Memoirs Of a Geisha Palette is one thing to keep in your purse. First one on the left is highliter, then perfect blush and a gloss. Great for touch ups and pick me ups. I go to ladies room and apply everything with my fingers, wash my hands and look refreshed.
Softlips- essential especially on airplanes. Last time we flew to NY I forgot it and we all had chapped lips that lasted 3 days to heal.
Cute- mint tin with a mirror. Discreet way to check on your makeup
Bunch of wet wipes
Current favorite lippie

NOW I feel taken care of in terms of skincare and makeup!

And of course something to readI know, I know I'm so behind but really didn't have time to read lately. Maybe because I was busy reading your blogs, Ladies! hahaha

Gosh! Pretty long list for a weekend getaway! But hey, a girl gotta do what girl gotta do, right? Or maybe not. I wish I can look and feel good without all these stuff. How about you, ladies? How much do you pack? I might learn something from you!

Have a great weekend!
Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

Winners Announced!

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 04:51:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
First of all, let me thank each and every one of you, Beauties, for taking time and participating in my first giveaway! It means a lot to me! Also thank you for sharing with your favorite brands with all of us!
There were no right or wrong answer. I've received 124 eligible entries and got some help from random.org to choose 2 winners:

Mzkrystal
and
Katrina is a Princess

After posting about my Firts Giveaway I told myself that whoever comments first would be one of the winners! So the 3rd winner is:

Chomfifi

Congratulations!

Now, about who gets what?
Winners please comment on this post with your prize preference:

1.
2.
3.

And again, whoever comments earlier will have a chance to get their preferred items. You have 24 hrs to do so. Otherwise, I'll have new winners!

Then I'll contact you for your shipping addresses. I'm leaving to Vegas this Friday and hoping to ship the prizes out before I leave!

To all of you Beauties: I'll stop by Sephora on Vegas Strip and will pick some stuff for my next giveaway! So next time it could be you!
Again, thank you for joining the fun ladies!

Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

DSK, Marukai Haul & Lulu's Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 02:49:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
Thank you very much for waiting patiently. I've had another giveaway on my YT channel ending the same day.

Wait a sec... Do you Spy Something Familiar On Me???
Yes, famous DSK jewelry. I've got necklace and earrings. They're beautiful! The shipping was super fast! Thanks Steph!

So, today I went to Marukai Japanese Market to pick up some cute extras and sweets for the winners. They've had great sales and specials that I couldn't help and bought some stuff for myself!
I tried to find the miso soup Staciee recommended but I think I got the wrong one :(
The Makeup remover clothes was on sale $4.89 for 100 sheets + travel pack. I've tried it and it did a very good job removing MU. Also smells good.

Thinking to give it a try for my lashes. Also on sale $3.89

Some bath salts

I've heard many great things about it that wanted to try myself especially when it's on sale for $28.98. Full size set of Shampoo and Conditioner + Damage treatment

Sweet Lulu is having a Summer Celebration Contest
Aren't the prizes cute???
Please check that out and participate in her first contest to celebrate summer!
Thank you cutie for the giveaway!

I'll get help from Random.org to determine the winners of my giveaway very soon. Hopefully by tonight! So stay tuned!

Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

Love pack from Hottie Katrina M

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 06:11:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
How's your week starting? Mine is staring just great cuz I've just picked up Hottie Katrina M's Love Pack "slash" Contest Prize and can't be happier! Yay! Thank you girl!

Look at the her drawings! Sooo preeetyyy!

A girl gotta shake it and guess what's in the box!

I've got Goodies filled in this GIANT & Cute HK bag!

CANT WAIT TO SEE????

Ok, Ok Here We Go:
OMG! I'm One Lucky Girl!
There is a one unpictured item which I'm excited about. Those who follow Katrina M know what I'm talking about! "wink, wink"

What we got here????
Lash Heaven...Can't wait to try them!

Nail treats... You know that I'm into nails, so I'm going crazy about these!

Always wanted to try Melon pigment! The brush is Sooo Soft! Fell in Love!

Look at the cutest key cap! Hooow I needed a teasing comb and this one is like nothing I've ever seen! Very nice!

I love them sheet masks!

I couldn't wear my favorite pumps because of slippery soles. Now I have the solution! Very excited about these, honey!
P.S. I'm saying these with Gay Accent!

How can I forget the HK Lipglass??? Adorable! I didn't have a chance to buy it. But now I have one!
You know how I do cheesy matchy- matchy pics!

Treats for my sweet tooth!

HUGE Thank You, Sweetie!
I felt like a little girl in a toy store and haven't felt that way since... well...when I was a little girl.

I shall help you cross out an item from your wish list!

Mmmmwa! Love you girl!
xoxo

Olive Oil Scrub & NOTD

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 06:44:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
Summer is almost here! Time for less clothes and more skin! To me the "no fail" way to bring out the best of my skin is scrubbing.
I've declared to myself that I'll never buy a body scrub ever again after discovering sugar.
You've probably heard about DIY olive oil scrubs before. It's awesome and my take on it for rough areas is replacing granulated sugar with SUGAR CUBES!

Simply pour one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over sugar cubes and wait till they get fully saturated!
How sweet is that?
Now scrub your stubborn areas like elbows, knees and especially heels to prepare for summer foot wears.
Also do it once a week or so on heel area to maintain the beautiful feet. Otherwise especially when we wear flip flops the dirt gets into feet so easily and dries and roughens the heels real bad.

Quick Tip: For body scrub wash just mix some granulated sugar with your regular favorite body wash cream or gel right before you use it.
Now who needs to spend some money on body scrub products?

Last but not least my NOTD: Zoya in Mischa
I'm in LOVE with this polish. It's cool pink and warm coral in one polish. The golden shimmers in it makes the difference I think.
Girly and Fun but Feminine and Sophisticated at the same time. Perfect for any day, any place and any occasion. Work, school, office, home, party, vacation, OMG there's something about this polish! Can't get over how perfect this is.
Ok, ladies hope you're having a great weekend! Tomorrow is the last day of my giveaway! And thank you, every single one of you beauties, for participating!

Stay Beautiful!

xoxo

Eki's Cospaly Contest Entry- Cinderella

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 19:44:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties!
Stunning and sweet Eki is having a Cosplay Contest. She says that we can do any character or heroine we want or even create one ourselves. What she'll be looking for in this contest is not makeup skills but what kind of character you can be! Making yourself as an illustration is the key! Also she adds, "Remember this contest is about presenting a character!!! You could use photoshop to your advantage!"

Here's my inspiration picture: Beautiful and talented actress Scarlett Johansson as Cinderella

My take on it: (Click on the pics for bigger image)
No matter how much she wanted to be with the Prince, Cinderella rushes to the carriage leaving her glass slipper before her whole dress turns to rag.

As the clock strikes 12:00 her carriage turned to a pumpkin and her dress is about to turn to a ragged cloth.

She sat next to the hazel tree over her mother's grave and made her wish....We all know how it ends! Every girl wants a Cinderella Ending!

Wow! I sure felt that I in fact was Cinderella. What a great experience! Thank you sweetie Eki for this unique and enabling contest theme. Also, thank you for suggesting the Photoshop. You've made me rediscover my long abandoned passion for Photoshop. It was sentimental, emotional but FUN experience at the same time. Great Contest!

Products I've used:

Face:
1. Shiseido Sun Pritection Liquid Foundation SPF 42 in SP50
2. Estee Lauder Stay-in-Place Concealer SPF 10 in Light
3. NARS Loose Powder in Eden
4. MAC Skin Mineralize Duo Dark Powder as a contour
5. Mac Skin Mineralize Duo Shimmer for highlight
6. Mac Powder Blush in Dollymix

Eyes:
7. Too Faced Shadow Insurance
8. Random Taiwanese Light Green Cream Stick
9. Stila Eyeshadow Trio in Pretty Pancy - The lightest green on inner lid
10. MAC e/s Talent Pool on middle of the lid
11. MAC e/s Star By Night on outer corner
12. MAC e/s Moon's Reflection on "crease" area to blend out
13. Estee Lauder e/s Sugar Cube on inner corner to highlight
14. Stila Smudge Pot in Gray to line upper lashline
15. Stila Kajal Eyeliner in Smokey Quartz to line outer corner of the eye
16. Shiseido Lasting Lift Mascara
17. L'oreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon
18. Jordana Brow Pencil in Coffee Bean

19. Ardel lashes in 110 Black

Lips:
20. MAC lippie in Ahoy There
21. MAC Chromeglass in Pastel Pink

Some Unphotoshopped Pictures:

Note the barefoot.... No Glass Slipper :)

I wish you can see the beautiful beading on my dress..

My beautiful ombre dress was sitting in my closet for years! Thanks to this contest it sees the light and I see its beauty again! Pleasantly surprised that I still can get in it!

Self made headband...

Making sad faces cuz I lost my glass slipper...... and my carriage turned to a pumpkin!

Thanks Beauties and may all have a Cinderella Ending!

Stay Beautiful!

xoxo

My entry to Stephanie's Giveaway & Glimpse of Hawaii

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 15:38:00 +0000

Cutie Stephanie is having her first giveaway to promote her Jewelry Store. She makes very cute jewelries. Check her out at:

Steph's Stuff- http://stephsstuffstore.blogspot.com/
Always Hungry -http://chefstephly.blogspot.com/
The prizes are surprise jewelry, pendant, cosmetic and yummy stuff along with MAC Plushglass in Ample Pink. How awesome is that? The giveaway will end Tuesday June 16, 2009 at 12:00 am PST So you have time to enter!
We have to write about our favorite jewelry and story behind it. Also to post a picture of it wearing.

My favorite piece of jewelry is my necklace and I never take it off. I sleep with it, shower with it, work out with it, swim with it. I wear it to work, clubs, parties, home, parks, museums, beach and everywhere else.
I love it because it consists of love of people who love me and whom I love! I hope it makes sense! hahaha
First, it was just a chain... My mom and dad's gift for my 18th birthday. My first solid platinum jewelry piece.
Then, during our summer vacation in Hawaii 2 years ago my little man chose a live oyster for me...

(Local ritual: Tap 3 times on a shell and wish for a big pearl )

And I've got this pretty pearl...Yay!

Then my big man bought me a white gold pendant with a small diamond, which is my birthstone..wink wink.
The guy attached the pearl onto the pendant and I never took it off since.
It's my personal symbol of love. Also it's a piece of the Paradise I carry with me. Oh, how I miss Hawaii!

Rabbit Island
Doesn't it look like a rabbit swimming in the ocean?
Waikiki Beach
I was so tan!
Boat ride
Look at the turquoise water and blue sky...

Hilton Hawaiian Village
I loooove the dancing statues!
Getting ready to Hula!

OMG! Stephanie, thanks for a wonderful giveaway topic! Most people have special pieces of jewelry that are conversation starters and I like learning stories behind them. Thanks for the opportunity! Also it took me back to good times! I feel so refreshed now!
So ladies, participate in her giveaway and write your stories. I'd love to read them all!

Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

OMG! I'm not NC30!?

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 04:25:00 +0000

Hi, Beauties! Silly thing happened to me this morning. I have to mention that I've never tried MAC foundations cuz I've witnessed my friends terrible break out long ago and was afraid to try. However I've asked MAC mua-s about my shade (for reference purposes) and every single mua have told me that I was NC30 Studio Fix. So all these years I used to refer to my shade as NC30.
The day I picked up my giveaway prizes I also picked up a sample of Studio Fix in NC30 (the mua also said it was my shade) to finally try if it would be kind to my skin.
So today I've gathered enough courage to apply it and ....then...it looked all WRONG! Picture below...

MAC Studio Fix NC30
(It even accentuated some little bumps that even I didn't know I had)

Confused, I applied my trusty Shiseido on the other side...and it looks right!

Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation SPF42 in SP50 (I did a review on it HERE)
(Have to mention that I have nothing on my neck)

I'm so confused right now. Can so many mua's be wrong? I didn't want to offend them by asking to test on my skin when they say so confidently that I'm NC30 just by looking at my skin. Or my Kose White Essence worked wonders (although it is in fact doing a great job)?
I better stick to my Shiseido for now. But I still wonder what's my MAC shade is? What do you ladies think?

xoxo
Stay Beautiful!

How to Make Small Bows On Your Nails

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 15:55:00 +0000

Hope You Liked It! Stay Beautiful!
xoxo

My HG Cleansers: Philosophy Purity and Microdelivery Review

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 17:04:00 +0000

Good cleanser that removes all the dirt and makeup without drying is very important and I've tried many, before I found my Holy Grail Cleansers. Usually nothing suits my skin other than Asian brands. At first I didn't really care about these and even wrote a bad review on MUA mainly because of its scent. But its performance made me change my mind!

Purity made simple, one-step facial cleanser 8oz for $20

(I use it in the evening)

Philosophy claims:

deep cleans pores and eliminates makeup build-up
hydrates as it melts away make-up
contains deep cleansing agents
natural oil extracts help condition skin
fragrance-free formula
contains a unique blend of extracts for a unique, fresh scent

I think:

Pros:

It really really removes the whole makeup! I used to use milky cleanser first and then foaming cleanser from Japanese Brand. Even after that when I wipe my face with toner saturated cotton pad I still had some makeup leftover. But with Purity I don't see leftovers. So it is a truly one step cleanser!
It semi foams
Doesn't strip my skin. My skin doesn't feel tight after use
Doesn't sting my eyes. Mild enough to use on eye area
Doesn't break me out

Cons:

It has some weird smell. Not offensive but not pleasant although they call it fresh scent
The packaging. No pump so you have to lift it up and squeeze to dispense. It's inconvenient especially with 16 oz bottles!

Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash 8oz for $25

(I use this in the morning)

Philosophy claims:

exfoliating facial cleanser that provides immediate resurfacing benefits
a 30-second cleansing mini peel that can be conducted in the shower, in the bath or at your bathroom sink
regular exfoliation helps buffer fine lines, even skin tone and give the skin a healthy glow
gentle enough for daily use

I think:

Pros:

It's great for morning use just to get rid of your night cream left overs. When I don't have makeup to remove why use other cleansers?
It has small grains and it's gentle but I have to do it real quick. Otherwise it might irritate the skin.
It foams unlike the Purity
It gets rid off dead cells
Leaves polished and smooth skin that's ready for morning skincare and makeup
No weird smell
Doesn't strip my skin

Cons:

The packaging : hard to lift and dispense, inconvenient

However, I found a solution! Simply pour them into any soap dispenser......

.....and VOILA!
So convenient! :)
With these 2 you'll be fully taken care of in terms of cleansing! Give them a chance as I did and maybe you'll love them too! :)
What are your HG cleansers?

xoxo

Zoya Nail Polish Haul, Award

noreply@blogger.com (Narita) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 08:08:00 +0000

Hi, beauties! Hope you're having great weekend!
Yay! My zoya Nail Polish package has arrived and thought I'd share with you ladies! I got them through Zoya exchange program.
Zoya polish is becoming my NEW love! Why?

Free of toluene, formaldehyde, DBP (phthalates) and camphor- chemicals known as carcinogens which can cause birth defects.
Safe even for pregnant moms
Awarded as the longest wearing natural nail polish by Women's Health Magazine
Made in the USA and packaged in exclusive custom made Italian glass and fine Spanish brushes.
Professional grade polish used in finest spas and salons around the world
Over 300 colors to choose

I've bought 10 and the first one (L to R) is just a white polish for my French Tips in Snow White (No Picture)

Then Trixie (1 coat)
Freja (2 coats)
Goldie (2 coats)

Midori (2 coats)
South Beach Ice (1 coat)
Yasmeen (1 coat)

Dita (1 coat)
Katy (1 coat)

Barbie (1 coat)

You can find them at Zoya.com

Yay! I've received my first blog Award! Thank you cutie Comsiri and fabulous Sassy Jadore!

The Adorable Blog Award Rules:

-Include the award logo in your blog or post.

-Nominate as many blogs which you like.

-Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.

-Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.

-Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received your award

I'd like to give this award to all blogs I follow but can't type them all. :(
Stephanie
Crystal
Christel
Laura
Win win
Naomi
Izumi
Lulu
Donnarence
K
M
Jess
Katrina
Katrina M
May
Girl About Town

Ann-AeRee
Staciee

Have a Great Weekend, Beauties!
xoxo