Makeup Wish List October 2010

I love writing these posts because I get to dream out loud....well, sort of :)
Here are some things that are in my radar.....

I. FACE
a. Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Foundation - to help my skin clear up; hopefully it will work
b. Smashbox Tinted Moisturizer - for those days when I don't feel like using a liquid foundation and my skin is cooperating :)
c. Makeup Forever Mat Velvet + Foundation - I've heard a lot of good things about this foundation that's why I want to give it a go.  Let's see how matte this is on my skin :)
*will be buying it this Thursday..YEY!!!a review will follow in a week's time*

II. EYES
a. Urban Decay Naked Palette - It's always out of stock!!! 12 shades of neutral colors ranging from shimmer to matte finishes

MakeUp Reviews: Chanel Lipshine in Panarea #93 and Diorskin Long-lasting Setting powder 001

Chanel Lipshine- This shade is on the berry/plum side, a bit sheer with a hint of shimmer. It can also pass as a neutral color so you can pair it with any shade. I like it because it stays on even after I drink. Price is on the up and up but worth checking out.

Diorskin LL Setting Powder-This was given to me by L for Christmas. I read about it in a magazine along with its positive reviews. The texture is like that of Makeup Forever's HD Microfinish powder, fine and smooth to the touch. It's Translucent and doesn't give you that parched look. One of my favorite powders.

What I'm loving lately:

1. Lip Butter in Plum-so rich in color it's like lipstick

2. MakeUp Forever aqua eyes eyeliner- Bought the shades 19L (brown) and 4L (berry/plum),

3. N.Y.C. Waterproof eyeliner - Moody Blue

4. Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer- to cover my dark circles

5. Chanel Kabuki Brush-bristles are so full and soft

Skincare Review: Face Creams/Moisturizer

Once we reach a certain age we need to think about how to preserve our youthful skin or prevent it from aging before its time.  Here are some of the creams I've tried and what I think of them.

1. Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer - contains salicylic acid to help prevent breakouts.  My skin felt soft and smooth the next morning; it controlled the oil production the next morning

2. Dermalogica Active Moist - definitely controlled the oil the next morning but skin was not as smooth as when I used Aveeno; I only use it at night before going to bed

3. Murad Essential -C Day Moisture with SPF 30 -I was apprehensive to use this in the morning because it does not say that it is oil-free so I applied it at night; it did not leave my skin feeling greasy when I woke up in the morning (I was surprised!); nice because it has an SPF 30 in it

4. Rare Minerals Purely Nourishing Facial Moisturizer -  I have this in a sample size and from the reviews I have read I am now afraid to try it; common thread is that it caused them to breakout...yikes!!! after all the work I have done to help clear my skin I am not about to mess it all up.  Sorry guys.....not going to risk it

Thanks for reading and see you next time!

Makeup Review: Smashbox Beauty A-GO-GO Color Palette

This is the very first product I bought from Smashbox.  In the palette you have 8 eye shadow colors, 2 highlighters, 4 lip glosses and 2 travel brushes (1 lip brush and 1 eye shadow brush)

Packaging:
1. comes in a small black book and has a divider that separates  the eye shadows from the highlighters and glosses
2. it also came in a leather zipper pouch which can be used for something else other than makeup

Texture:
1. the eye shadows are very silky and pigmented; not chalky but when you pack a lot of it onto your brush you might have some fall out so be sure to tap off the excess before application
2. easy to blend
3. cream highlighters are pigmented as well; not too shimmery
4. the glosses are on the soft side (consistency)

MakeUp Review: Neutrogena Natural Radiance Bronzer

It's really hard to find a bronzer that's close to your skin tone and not having too much of that shimmer that you look like you're trying too hard. So finally, after scouting around the usual brands, I found this one and the beauty of it is it didn't cost me an arm and a leg.

There are 3 things I like about it.
First, it's matte.
Second, because there are 3 shades offered in one palette you have to combine them using a brush and sweep it over your cheeks to give you that elusive natural glow.
And thirdly, the price.

I use it as a contour to highlight my cheekbones with a dab of light pink blush on top but lately it's my go-to blush. Can't go wrong with this one I tell you.

Makeup Review: Benefit Dallas Blush

This is my first Benefit Blush and that's one of the reasons why I love it dearly.  Aside from that... its shade is on the mauve side and I believe it is great for ladies who want a darker shade of blush as opposed to the usual baby pink or peach.
It comes with a square brush and it has a slight floral  scent.  According to Benefit, this blush is for those who want to achieve an outdoor glow.  I don't know about that but I still like how the shade looks on my skin tone.

Available at GorgeousMeStore!

Makeup Review: Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush

A mouthful to say isn't it? :)

photo from clinique.com

As with other Clinique make up products, they don't have a lot of shades to choose from.  They are what you can call ' basic' shades.  Nothing too bright nor is it too dark.  I like it because it is very pigmented, I don't use the brush that comes with it because I'm pretty sure it will pack a lot of product and I will look like a clown.  Packaging is Clinique's usual silver container with a big mirror inside and it's sturdy.

Shades vary from pink to mauve but I am not sure if all shades are available here in Manila.  Try your luck.  Clinique is available at Rustan's Department Store.

Thanks for stopping by!

Skincare Review: Sunblock

We need to use sunblock everyday... when we go out and even when we're staying home watching tv or using the pc.  Here are some that I have tried.

1. Neutrogena SPF 50 with Helioplex - can used on the face and body; no scent; not sticky
2. Shelter by Philosophy - has an SPF of 30; has a beige tint; has a very dewy finish on me
3. Sunblock from my Derma - SPF 30; gel form so it's good for those with oily skin; the only thing I don't like about it is the small container; but a staple in my collection

From Dr. Evil
1. Face It HD perfect BB by face shop- lightly tinted, not so easy to spread. Sometimes I use this as my foundation.

2. Avene spf 30 - this is for dry sensitive skin. Good for cold weather. Light on the skin, easily absorbed.

3. Heliocare spf 30- also tinted, light on the skin; wasn't greasy at all; Love it.

What is your favorite sunblock?

Makeup Review: Makeup Brushes....SIGMA

photo from google images

I learned about this brand from different blogs I've read and on Youtube.  What I got was the 1st Complete Kit without the Brush Roll.Included are:
1. SS 150 - big fluffy powder/blush brush
2. SS187 -  duo fiber; I use it to apply liquid foundation or blush (when the blush is very pigmented this brush won't grab too much product)
3. SS168 - angled face brush; I use it for contouring; I had a difficult time rinsing the shampoo out of the brush
4. SS190 - foundation brush; hardly use it because I prefer the flat buffer or the 109 for liquid foundations
5. SS 239 - packs a whole lot of color
6. SS 252 - bigger version of the MAC 242; I use it apply my lid color;

Skincare Review: Acne Kit III

Clinique Acne Solutions

This kit includes a Cleansing Foam, Clarifying lotion (aka toner) and a Clearing Moisturizer.  You may also want to get the Spot Healing Gel a pimple medicine for acne spots/blemishes.

I have used the following:
Clarifying Lotion ( #4) - this toner was a bit painful every time I use it after a facial treatment.  It did its job in cleaning my face further.

Spot Healing Gel - this formula worked on me for about 2 years, but after that I had to look for another spot medicine.  i think my skin got immune to the formula, I am not sure.

Clinique used to have a spot treatment formula which you can use at night only.  That medicine really worked on me.  Unfortunately, I believe Clinique discontinued it.  Too bad :(

Powder Comparison: Loose or Pressed

I asked several women what they liked/disliked about the Loose Powder and the same for the Pressed/Compact Powder. Here's a summary:

LOOSE POWDER

Pros- Finely milled, very light to the touch and very versatile

       - Can be used to set make up

       - Helps clean eye shadow fallout

       - One shade fits all

Cons- Cannot be used alone as a foundation

PRESSED POWDER

Pros- Easy to carry around

       - Can be used as a foundation

          - Can be used to set make up

       - Can be used wet or dry

Cons- too many shades to choose from

        - gets too oily unless one uses a mattifier before putting it on

It's really up to you what you prefer. It's good to try both to see for yourself. Happy Hunting! :)

Skincare Review: Acne Kits II

On a Clear Day Skin System by Philosophy 

This system really helped me control my breakout.  This kit includes a cleanser, oil-free moisturizer, clarifying lotion and a spot treatment. It may be a bit on the expensive side but it gave me a very positive result.  The only thing I didn't like about it was the old container of the spot treatment.  It used to be a serum that was in a blue bottle with a rubberized medicine dropper/cap.  After a month or so, the rubber cap melted! Of course that dried up the serum faster than you can say "pimple free".  Good thing Philosophy revamped the packaging.

Available at Beauty Bar.

Hope this helps and thank you for stopping by!

Makeup Review: Makeup Brushes ... MAC

This post is about the different kinds of makeup brushes that I've tried.  For now I have invested in a few MAC brushes, a beginners set from Essence of Beauty and a set from Sigma Brushes.  Sigma is a U.S. brand which patterned its brushes from MAC so they have the same numbers.

From MAC I have the following: please noted that I have discussed some of these brushes in an older post (Basic Makeup Brush)
1. 217 - my favorite eye brush; I use it to apply my crease color and for blending
2. 242 - I use it to apply the lid color and sometimes eyeliner shadow;
3.219 - a pencil brush that I use to apply the crease shadow with (rarely); sometimes I use it to soften my eyeliner
4.224 - I use it for blending and for applying concealer under my eyes

Makeup Review: Cargo Essential Eye Palette in Warm

I was so excited to use this palette because all the colors are neutral.
Summary:

Packaging: kind of sturdy compact with a sizeable mirror which you can actually use when applying makeup

Colors: this palette comes in 2 types, the Warm and the Cool.  I realized that the Cool Palette doesn’t really go with my skin tone (I’m an NC35 in MAC) but the Warm matches perfectly

Texture: Finely milled almost too powdery for my taste but it is very blendable

Thumbs down: The shadows break easily!  GorgeousMe bought from ULTA and when we got it 1 palette was broken.  Of course we are not able to sell it anymore

Price: it is on the more expensive side

Overall: a nice palette to have in your collection; when you’re in a hurry and you don’t want to think too much about what eye makeup you’d want, you can just grab this and you won’t even have to think twice.

Thanks for stopping by and see you next time!

MakeUp Review: MakeUp Removers

My top picks for Makeup Removers:

1. Clinique Take the day off MakeUp Remover for lids, lashes & lips- Oil based remover, too oily if you ask me but does the job.

2. Ponds Wet Cleansing Towelettes- contains 30 sheets in one pack. Convenient to carry around. Leaves the skin very clean and moisturized.

3. Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil- One of the best cleansing oils out there. Removes the makeup as it cleans. No greasy feeling after. You'll get addicted with the smell. Love it.

*Remember to always remove your makeup before going to bed.

Skincare Review: OBAGI

I found myself in need of a dermatologist just 2 years ago. This is when I went to Obagi and consulted with my classmate/future dermatologist to be. I've never been happier. Since then I've tried several chemical peels, Rejuvinating facials and their products (of course). Here's a quick rundown of what I've had done and are using:

Treatments: Chemical Peels to bring back glowing skin

1. Glycolic Peel- very mild, not too much peeling (which I really like) and refreshes the skin

2. Sensi Peel- treatment is a bit tingly especially after acne surgery but after a while it goes away. Peeling is more but in big chunks so it's faster. I don't recommend this when you have a date or some formal thing you have to go to within that same week.

3. Pumpkin Peel- You turn orange after the treatment because of the color of the mask they put. I don't like it because it gave me a major breakout but the smell was nice....cinnamon.

Skincare Review: Acne Kit I - Dermalogica Adult Breakout Treatment Kit

This kit includes the following:

Clearing Skin Wash -  a foamy type of cleanser and is not minty

Clearing Mattifier - reminds me of Laura Mercier'sSecret Finish-Mattifying Creme

Overnight Clearing Gel - to be used all over the face which helps prevent breakouts

Concealing Spot Treatment - a tinted pimple medicine; has a bit of a watery consistency

Sebum Clearing Masque - to be used after cleansing; my face felt really clean after
Oil Control Lotion - oil free moisturizer 

You can also try out their facial treatment.  You'll come out of it feeling so fresh and clean.  If you purchase at Rustan's remember to ask for some samples, they have plenty.  And if you befriend the sales associate, she/he might give you a lot of samples :)) It pays to be nice ;)

Thanks for stopping by and see you next time!

MakeUp Brand Series: Part III

BENEFIT COSMETICS

One thing that catches your eye when you spot a Benefit counter is their packaging. As soon as you go near them, their names start to reel you in. Genius, fun and simply cute. But the names and packaging are not the end of it, the products should be given the same attention too. One in particular is the Benetint, which is the original lip and cheek stain. It comes in Rose and Posie tints. They also have best-selling blushes that come in uniquely designed square boxes. Lately, they have been slowly moving towards the skincare line and have come out with a product called Porefessional. Prices fall in the mid-range but definitely a buy especially the ones I just mentioned.

LAURA MERCIER

Known for the flawless look, 30s-40s women have become followers. They love her tinted moisturizers because it gives good coverage, sheer, has spf and gives them that certain glow. I personally like their mineral powders. They don't make your skin look parched. Prices also fall in the mid-range so maybe on payday you can splurge a little and reward yourself for all that hard work.

Makeup Review: Smashbox Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15

 I use a tinted moisturizer whenever I am not in the mood to use a liquid foundation or when my skin is surprisingly clear from blemishes.  Being a fan of the makeup brand Smashbox I was excited to have been given a sample of the Tinted Moisturizer           ( thanks Hikaru!).

Here are some of the things I discovered.

Texture: not too thick nor is it too creamy; consistency is just right

Finish:  for me it came out as semi-matte/semi-dewy;  definitely not as dewy as Philiosophy's Shelter

Longevity:  it lasted for about a few hours; to think I didn't use a whole lot of it, but just enough to even out my skin

Availability: you will find Samshbox at Beauty Bar and I think they have 3 shades to choose from.  Will definitely buy once I am finished with my Shelter....or maybe a 'gift to self' :)

Skincare Review: More than meets the Eye "Creams"

People can often tell how old you are by looking at your eyes. Some have visible crows feet, some look dark and hollow and some just look as if they haven't slept in days....not a very pretty sight.:( Here are some of the creams I've tried in the past and currently using. And in my opinion are good and works wonders.

1. ROC Eye Retinol Correxion eye cream- the cream is very light around the eyes and is really made to target the problem areas like wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles because of the retinol it contains. The ROC brand are sold in most drugstores (in the US) and it's inexpensive. The retinol content is minimal so it can be used during the day too. Pregnant women are not advised to use anything with retinol.

MakeUp Brand Series: Part II

BOBBI BROWN

Skincare wise, hers does not take center stage but one product that stands out is her Face Base. This was reviewed last month I think by L and I agree about its "magical" effects. BB is know for the "No MakeUp" makeup look. Her line best describes that look. From Foundation/Tinted Moisturizers to Brick Blush Palettes down to the lipsticks, it's all about neutrals.

MAC

Mac is known for their vast selection of color. They cater mostly to the younger generation who have that edge to try and experiment on these colors. Makeup artists are also known to patronize the makeup line because they always opt for the studio look. It takes artistry and precision to use them especially the ones with glitter. One thing that has made Mac a success is the versatility of their makeup (includes tools of course) and how one can transform their look from drab to fab.

That's it for now. Gotta go to work ladies. :)

Makeup Review: Clarins Beauty Flash Balm

I have heard about this primer from Lisa Eldridge, she is a professional makeup artist and a beauty guru on Youtube.
Clarins has always been a leading brand in skincare but I never really tried any of their products because they are on the pricey side.  But since I'm always searching for an amazing primer I figured this would a good one to try.

My thoughts:

Texture: feels like a thick lotion; very creamy; has a pinkish tint
Feel: very smooth; a bit tacky

Application: I applied it using my fingers; less rubbing on the face is advised

Longevity: it was able to help my foundation stay on and kept my face from being too oily

Availability: you can buy this at Rustan's Department Store

Overall: success!!! will purchase the regular size once I'm out

Hope this helps.  Thanks for stopping by and see you next time!

MakeUp Brand Series: What they are known for

These brands have been around for years and I just wanted to share with you the secrets of their success. I hope this will help you choose which one of them is best suited for your skin.

CLINIQUE

They started as a skin careline that evolved into makeup and fragrances. Having a very talented R & D team made it a success. They introduced the 3-step skincare which included using their facial soap, clarifying lotion and the dramatically different moisturizing lotion. It has been a cult favorite ever since, maybe because it was so simple back then. I still use the clarifying lotion #2 up to this day. Most if not all their products are all hypo-allergenic (not harsh on the skin) and non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) which makes it a right fit for everyone. Aside from their skincare line, their makeup is not be ignored. I like their blush and lipsticks. I remember buying my first blush from them, mocha pink i think. When you pick a blush, the shades are so straightforward that it makes it easy for you to choose. Same goes for their lipsticks and best of all they're inexpensive. Because of that it made my Makeup shopping more memorable and this started a Makeup chain of events....

I'll be back tomorrow for more brands....:)

September Favorites 2010

Here is a list of the makeup products I have been reaching for the most for the month of September (although we're only half way thru).

Blush: Nars Gilda.  You only need to dab your brush lightly on the blush to get an ample amount.  Be sure to control it or else you might end up looking like a clown.  Shade is on the dark peachy side

Bronzer: Laura Mercier Illuminating Bronzer.  Goes perfectly well with the Gilda Blush.  Always a staple in my everyday look.  I don't know what I'll do when I hit pan on it :(

Lipstick: I have been using the Jemma Kidd and the Giorgio Armani

Eyeshadow: MAC All that Glitters.  I have been searching for this shade here but unfortunately wasn't lucky enough to find one.  I got it at the Hong Kong Airport on my way back.  So be sure to check in early so you'll have time to go around the duty free shops in airports.

Brush: MAC 138.  Very soft and is pointed at the tip so no problems reaching the inner corners of the eyes.  Great for contouring the cheeks

Lip Balm: EOS Smooth Sphere. Not greasy and very flavorful.  Just a bit on the bulky side but still very cute/unique

Face: MAC Fix+. Used quite a bit while at the beach to freshen up my face when it got too hot.  I also sprayed on my hair when it got too dry

Makeup tips: Managing your makeup collection

Ever since I got into makeup I have wanted to just buy and buy.  But after some time I realized that aside from having it, I love using it as well.  So it's not really practical or safe to just keep adding to your collection.  You must weed some things out every so often.

Like with foundations or with any cream product, you can't have them years on end and expect it to be the same as when you first got it.  But powder products don't normally go bad so I believe it's okay to have them longer. 

Whenever I feel that there are items that I have not used for 6 months I give it away.  So if you don't want to give them out or throw them you can always do the 'project 1 pan'.  What you do is that you use that product until you hit pan and of course you're not allowed to buy anything until you do.  Or if you have a lot of lip glosses, you can do a 'gloss out' which makes you use that 1 gloss first before buying another one.

 So when I got home today I decided to set aside products that I'll be giving away..   So now there's more room for new products!!  Yey!!

Makeup Review:Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation with SPF 15

I was given a sample of this foundation by Dr Evil because she knows I'm into foundations lately.  Here are my thoughts on the product.

Shade: Beige.  Goes well with my skin, probably because most, if not all, of their shades are yellow based which is good for Filipinos

Texture: It does feel weightless just like what is written on their website; although it is for all skin types I believe it is not suitable for oily skin.  I found myself blotting every so often; it is very easy to blend and it applies smoothly

Overall: a good foundation but too dewy for my skin type.  Maybe I'll try the Natural Finish Long Lasting Foundation with SPF 15.


Thanks for stopping by and see you next time!

Makeup Review: Elizabeth Arden Stackable Palette

This palette comes with 6 eyeshadows, 2 blushes, 1 lipstick, 1 lipgloss and 1 lipliner.  This palette is very convenient to bring when you travel because the lid comes with a mirror.  The shadow colors vary from light to dark; for creating neutrals to smokey eyes.  They are very pigmented so you need to be careful when some fall out.  On me the lipstick feels semi matte so I normally wear a balm under it then a gloss.  The gloss that comes with the palette is a bit on the shimmery side so I only use it sparingly.

Over all, I like this palette; it is very wearable and the best part is that I got it as a gift :)

Thanks for stopping by and see you next time!

MakeUp review: Chanel Powder Blush in Rose Petal

photo from google images

I Finally got a chance to try Chanel's best selling blush thanks to Kimmie. Upon opening the compact, a very bright pink is staring at you then all of a sudden a vision comes to mind....raggedy anne!!! But don't be scared because the pink is actually very sheer so you can afford to go a little bit crazy with it. It has a rosy smell but not too strong. I'm wearing it today and I matched it with the Lip Butter in Plum. Try it when you're at Chanel's counter, hopefully they have it in stock. Right L? :)

p.s. check out  Jennifer Aniston using this blush

MakeUp Review: Bobbi Brown Cream Concealer with Sheer finish loose powder

photo from bobbibrown.com

Aside from the foundation, concealers are also a must have if you want to hide those tiny bits of imperfections on your face. Dark circles under my eyes is the culprit here. I got a hold of this one a couple of years ago but just started using it last year. Suddenly there was a need for it...not a good sign :( The concealer is packed in a small compact that can be stashed anywhere. The top part holds the concealer with a mirror while the bottom part holds the powder. I use this to cover the dark parts using a concealer brush which makes it easier to blend. Then I use my finger to put powder on top to seal it. You might think you need a lot but a small amount goes a long way, it's just a matter of blending it correctly. You will see results instantly. No dark circles and bright eyes. Mission Accomplished! :)))

MakeUp Review: Rimmel Vinyl Stars Brilliant Shine and Sparkle lipgloss

L got a bunch of Rimmel products from her friend who lives in London and she gave me this to try since she knew I got a bit disappointed with Chanel's Glossimer. Price wise these two are oceans apart but when it comes to delivering what it has promised I was really happy with it. For one, the " brilliant shine and Sparkle" were still there after 2 hrs of wearing. For me that's enough time to see if a gloss works because I normally eat or drink something after 2 hrs then touch ups are needed again. The shade I have is Be a Star, which is a bit on the pinkish red side. Versatile if you ask me because it can be worn day or night. And it has the effect of plump looking lips. Perfect for that Muah moment. :)

Skincare Review: Dermalogica

A couple of months ago I was looking for an exfoliant which I can use on a daily basis.  Dr. Evil suggested I try Dermalogica's Microfoliant.  After purchasing something from Rustan's I was given quite a few samples of skincare products of Dermalogica.  Here is my mini review of them.

Clay cleanser - it has a lotion type consistency; very mild; it has that tingly feeling after you wash it off; no scent; very refreshing

Microfoliant - miniscule white granules; very gentle on the skin; the only thing I don't like about it is the packaging, because the square hole is too big so whenever you pour some you always end up with more than what you need

Daily Moist - their moisturizer which you use every morning and evening but I only use it before I go to bed; it claims to control the oil on your face and amazingly enough, it does; I noticed that my usual oily face is not as oily as when I use a different brand of moisturizer

So all in all I believe this is a good skincare line especially since I have an acne prone skin/sensitive skin.  It is available at Rustan's Department Store.

Hope this helps and see you next time!

Makeup Review: Eye Shadows

Marina and African Violet

Of all the makeup products available I can say that the eye shadow is my favorite, although foundations and lipsticks are a close second ( yup, they're both number 2 in my book).  So every once in a while I try to buy a shade or 2 to appease my craving.  Here are some of the items I got the last few months:

1. Laura Mercier. Marina and African Violet.  Although I rarely wear the Marina(blue) it still gives me joy whenever I look at it :)..very silky and highly pigmented; blends easily; Laura Mercier have very wearable shades for an everyday look

2. MAC. All that Glitters. I love this color, it is pinkish champagne-y color and great for a neutral look.  So far I have been able to use it only once but I can already say that I will be wearing this quite often.  It's smooth, has a bit of shimmer and you can easily blend the color onto your eyelid.  MAC has so many shades to choose from that you are bound to see something you like.

Makeup Tip: 5 Makeup Items when you're in a hurry

Let's face it, we've all had this happen to us.  We're running late and we can't fathom the idea of not using some makeup.  So we try and scramble to think what will be the best/fastest to apply.
This is what I use/d:

1. Sunblock.  Especially if you're running late in the mornings.

2. Mattifying base.  I use the Murad oil-control mattifier to keep the oil at bay

3. MAC Studio Fix Powder (NC35) using a kabuki brush.  Using powder foundation eliminates the need for blending.  You just need to make sure that you applied evenly all over your face.

4. Bronzer.  I normally use a bronzer and a blush but when I'm in a hurry I just use the bronzer to liven up my face

5.  L:ipstick.  When in doubt I reach for my nude lipstick/s

footnote: I usually curl my lashes even without using a mascara.  This helps your eyes look more awake.

Thanks for stopping by!

Makeup Review: Chantecaille Les Dauphins Palette

This palette is with the 2009 collection.  It comes with eye shadows and a blush/highlighter.  The eye shadows are in 3 containers containing 6 colors. Very light pink/light pink; light brown/brown;light grey/dark grey are the eyeshadow colors.  Light pink/bright pink are the blush colors.  It has a very light gold/silver  over spray; this over spray does not transfer as a color once you apply it on your eyes or cheeks.

Packaging: color is gunmetal grey; very shiny; lightweight; has a big mirror that can be used to look at your whole face; comes with a pinkish peach pouch; very posh

Texture: very silky smooth

Color: neutral and very wearable for day or night

Price: Kind of pricey but it's a treasure to have in your collection.

Makeup Review: Nars Lipstick and Blush

I recently got another Nars Lipstick and a Blush.  It took me awhile to purchase these because 1, the lipstick was not available here in Manila and 2, I always try to do an extensive research before buying a product.
What I got are Dolce Vita Lipstick ( did I mention that I was in the nude kick?) and the Gilda Blush.
Unfortunately, the lipstick is kind of sheer (in my opinion) so I have to apply a few coats before I see the shade on me.  But the blush is very pigmented so a light hand is advisable.
Next on my radar is the eyeshadow duo, I already know which I want to purchase :) I better start making a list of the things I want for Christmas!!!

Do you like Nars?  Any favorite products?

Makeup Review: Let's go Tinted

I'm not sure If you ladies out there have given Tinted Moisturizers a chance to shine in your Makeup collection. You should! Women are often inclined to buy foundation because it gives excellent coverage for blemishes and uneven skin tones. But once in a while you can go easy on your skin specially if you are close to flawless. It still gives the same effect, it's just a matter of choosing the right shade and how you apply it. Since I have fair skin I go for the medium tint and having oily skin I also go for oil-free. Here are some that I like and hope you get a chance to try them as well.

1. Boscia Tinted Moisturizer-sheer and very light (currently what I'm using)

2. Bobbi Brown TM Spf 15-light, dewy, and you won't look pasty

3. Boots No.7 soft and sheer TM- I recommend this for first-timers. Not too expensive and it's for all skin types, hypo-allergenic.

4. Laura Mercier Illuminating TM-gives you a subtle glow. Can be used as a highlighter as well.

Makeup Review: Chanel Glossimer

I chose the shade #217 thinking what a fabulous red it was. It was very bright on the first application but after just an hour I looked in the mirror and asked myself, " where did it go???" . Considering how much this costs, they could've put more R&D on this product to make it long-lasting. It's as if I just put lip balm and that's not the reason I bought it. Chanel my love, sorry to say but this doesn't make it on my list. Nothing glossy about it. But I will try your lip lacquer next time, maybe I'll have more luck with that.

Makeup Review: Fresh Lipgloss in Sugar Charm

photo from sephora.com

I was looking for an alternative to the Fusion beauty lipgloss I had before. Of course, it had to be nude again to match my lipstick. I picked the one that's more on the brown side since I was always used to the pinkish ones. Good thing it did not disappoint me. I liked it instantly!!... not just for the shade but because it's not sticky. Texture is one of the things I look for in lipgloss. I've noticed some are like syrup that when the wind blows my hair to my face, rest assured my hair gets stuck to it. Then, I look like cousin "It" (from the Addams family). Grrr.

What I also liked was the scent on the wand itself. Sounds weird because it's like putting cologne on your lips. Ooooh lala. They have lots of shades to choose from and all nice. Wish I got one more. Oh well there's always time for me to go back again and again and again....:)))

Makeup Review: Estee Lauder Ideal Light Brush on Illuminator no. 02

photo from esteelauder.com

I was looking for a concealer when the lady at the Estee Lauder counter suggested this instead.  It reminded me of the Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat.  I was told that I didn't need to put an eye cream under my eyes before using this pen because it is moisturizing enough.  Of course I figured maybe it would be better if I used an eye cream even though she told me not to, so I did.  Lo and behold, the illuminator was having a difficult time adhering to my skin, most probably because of the additional cream I used :( ....so, the next day, I skipped the cream and used the pen straight.  Amazing results! It lightened up my under eye area a great deal.  It is very silky and easy to apply and blend into the skin. I am very happy with my purchase and would definitely suggest you guys to try it out if you're in the market for an under eye brightener.

See you next time!

Makeup Tips: What to do at a Makeup Store

Here are some tips to remember when you go to a makeup store.

1. If testing a mascara, always remember to test it at the back of your hand and not on your lashes.  You don't know how many people used it on their eyes.

2.  When trying a lipstick, you can either a. have the makeup artist sanitize it by spritzing alcohol on to the lipstick itself or b. test it out on your fingertips because they (some makeup artists) say that your fingertips are very similar to your lips in terms of shade

3.  Never test out a lip gloss straight from the tube.  You don't know how many people used the applicator on their lips

4.  Powder products are okay to test on eyelids or cheeks i.e. eye shadows and blush

5.  When testing out a cream product, always make sure that the makeup artist wipes the top layer with a tissue sprayed with alcohol

It's always good to be o.c. about hygiene.

Thanks for stopping by and see you next time!

My Top 5 Scents

Colognes have become somewhat of an obsession for me. Aside from Make up shopping, fragrances are also part of it. I always end up buying at least one bottle to add to my honeybees. Here's a preview of my collection over the years and still counting.

1. Eau De Orlane- a bit musky but still feminine

2. Amazing Grace by Philosophy- Has that powdery smell, not over powering

3. Nectarine Blossom & Honey by Jo Malone- a best seller. Love the citrus side to it. Combination is perfect.

4. Acca Kappa- Oprah's pick a couple of years ago and I agree. One of those scents you never get tired of smelling. Perfect for day and night.

5. Verbenas of Provence by Jo Malone- When I see colognes that have Verbenas I'm always drawn to them. It smells so sweet and refreshing.

Try one of these, it makes SCENTS. :)

Makeup Review: Jemma Kidd Lipstick

photo from jemmakidd.com

Another brand that I keep hearing about is the Jemma Kidd makeup line.  I was able to visit their counter at Seibu and bought myself 1 lipstick.  The shade is Rita.  I have been in the nude shade kick lately so that's what I got.

Packaging: matte black; same feel as the Nars packaging

Texture: smooth

Ingenuity: has lipstick on 1 end and a lip balm on the other


Downside: has only 2.5g, I'm not sure if that's the total with the lip balm included or just the lip color but either way, very few product in my opinion

Color: nice color selection, quite pigmented in my opinion ( I don't like the sheer kind somehow)

When you're in Lane Crawford, you might want to check it out.

Thanks for stopping by!

Makeup Review: Giorgio Armani Lipsticks

photo from giorgioarmanibeauty.com

On a recent trip to Hong Kong with Dr Evil and Kimmy,  I was able to splurge a little on lipsticks.  After seeing this brand in magazines like Instyle and Lucky I was craving to try it out.  So when I saw it at Lane Crawford,  I dove right in.  I got the Rouge D'armani in shades 601(plum shade) and 506(pink nude).

Packaging: all black, very sleek, cap is magnetized (yup, it closes by itself! neat huh?)

Texture: silky smooth

Color: wide range of shades( classy colors), very pigmented

Staying power: lasts quite a long time, keeps your lips moisturized

In a nutshell, loving it!! Definitely worth trying.

Check out Giorgio Armani Makeup for more information on their line of amazing makeup.

Thanks for stopping by and see you next time!