New Beauty Products for 2011 part II

1. Hope in a Tinted Moisturizer spf 20- provides sheer color and hydration. Comes in 8 shades.

2. Kiss of Hope- lip treatment with vanilla-mint flavor, been compared to Kiss me Tonight (for those who are familiar with the Philosophy line)

3. Supernatural Collection Gift set- includes eyeshadow palette, lipgloss, mineral bronzer and illuminating mineral powder

Foundation Shade Table I

 This table shows my shade across different brands of makeup.

          BRAND                                       SHADE

1. MAC                                             NC35
2. Paul and Joe Creamy Matte            30
3. Makeup Forever Mat Velvet          40
4. Chanel Mat Lumiere                       30
5. Diorskin Nude                                30
6. Laura Mercier Silk Creme               Bamboo Beige
7. Laura Mercier Oil Free Foun.         Warm Ivory
8. Maybelline Aqua Gel                      True Beige (24)
9. Cover Girl Trublend                        Buff Beige (425)
10. Estee Lauder Double Wear             Tawny
11. Bare Escentuals Matte                    Medium Beige
12. Nars Sheer Matte                           Stromboli

New Beauty Products for 2011

I've recently come across some new beauty products that raised my eyebrows.:) They're not available here but you can check them on their corresponding websites.

1. MAC Prep + Prime BB cream spf 35- exclusively sold at DFS, Travel retail stores, MAC Singapore. It retails at $42 in Singapore and $30 in the US.

2. b. right! Skincare collection- benefits' new skincare line offers facial/eye creams and also moisturizers. Click on to Benefitcosmetics.com for more details.

3. Bite Beauty lip products- exclusive at Sephora.com. Retails at $24.

Makeup Tip: What to do with a foundation that is too light for you

Have you ever gone to the store only to get a foundation that is too light?  Since we are in the Philippines, you can't really return it so you end up buying a darker shade.  Now, what to do with the lighter one?

Well, here is one tip that might help you use the lighter foundation.  You can actually use it under the eye area, around the nose, in between your brows, down your nose and on your chin.  When you do this, you brighten up the areas where women are normally a bit red.  By doing this, you might then lessen your concealer.  Just remember to blend it really well onto your darker foundation.  Buff it with a loose powder or a powder foundation to finish your base makeup.

Makeup Summer Trend: Bright Cheeks and Bright Lips

According to some style magazines, the trend this spring/summer is bright cheeks with bright lips.
Here are some suggestions for you to use this summer.  These are products that I have tried and liked.

CHEEKS:

1. Nars Gilda Blush - this is a bright orange blush that when used with a light hand can be very summer-y
2. Benefit Coralista - a pinkish peach blush with a shimmer
3. Clinique Blushing Blush in Charming Rose
4. Laura Mercier Powder Blush in City Pink -  has a blue undertone kind of pink with a little shimmer

LIPS: 

1. NYX Indian Pink -  pinky peach shade
2. Cle de Peau Extra Silky Lipstick #107 - a bright/vivid fuschia pink
3. Makeup Forever Rouge Artist Intense #37 (Satin Bright Pink) and # 40 (Satin Bright Orange)
4. Barbie Loves Stila in Tickled Pink - a very bright Barbie Pink

Let us know if you've tried any of them!

Nail Polish Review: Chanel Nail Colour

Did you ladies notice some of Chanel's nail polish lately? In the past year or so, I've come to love them because the colors they come up with are so deep and vibrant plus it compliments whatever skin tone. And it doesn't chip off easily. The first one I ever bought was called Pirate. It's this very bright shade of red (lightens your skin tone), but sadly, it's discontinued. Grrr. The next one I got was the Cashmere (more on the coral side). Perfect for summer. Last year was Blue Satin (navy blue) which I saw in Instyle Fall issue. Then my latest baby is the Particulere. This was featured again in InStyle for the Jan 2010 issue. This one is Grey. Great with Nude (peep-toe)shoes. I'm eyeing my next bottle called Paradoxal....check it out again in this month's InStyle magazine. You'll love the color. Quite obvious what my bible is...:)))

Introduction to Urban Decay Makeup Setting Spray

Urban Decay has teamed up with Skindinavia for their Makeup Setting Spray.

They offer 3 kinds of setting sprays, namely All Nighter, De-Slick and Dew Me.  These sprays help your makeup to last longer, control the oil and moisturize your skin respectively.

For a more in depth review, click All Nighter and De slick.

Makeup Review: Urban Decay De-Slick

De-Slick is Urban Decay's oil-control makeup setting spray.  You need to use the spray before applying your base ( primer or BB cream) and after applying your makeup.  I was excited to use this because of my experience with the All Nighter.
The first thing that I noticed was that the mist was not as fine as the All Nighter and you only need 4 spritzes to cover your whole face.
I used this spray with a mattifier underneath and I also tried using it without and it worked on both instances.  More so when I used a BB Cream before my foundation!
So for those of you who have an oily skin, this is another product to include in your makeup routine.

Available at Amazon.

Shu Uemura's Angled Brush 20h

Shu Uemura's Angled Brush (20h) has finally replaced my very old and ugly angled brush. It's my very first Shu Uemura brush and I wasn't disappointed. Here are my positives for this product...

1. Soft bristles because it's made of pony hair.
2. There are no powder residuals when you use this brush
3. Very easy to clean and does not shed as much as the MAC brushes.
4. Best for contouring cheeks and creating nose shadows.

One negative is the price...$50.

Available at Rustan's (Metro Manila) or go to Shu Uemura

Anti-Aging Products worth trying

My fascination, or rather, addiction to Anti-Aging products have gone from I need it! to almost crazy like. Here are some of those that I've been using and some that I've just started. Ageless beauty is just around the corner....

1. Curel Therapy Targeted Hand and Cuticle Cream

2. Kiehl's Acai Berry Damage Correcting Moisturizer- non greasy and improves skin tone/texture

3. Obagi-C CRX System Clarifying Serum-skin lightening serum. Very good for dark spots.

4. Te-Pads Pore Refining Astringent - oil free and contains white tea

5. La Mer The Eye Balm Intense-reduces puffiness and apperance of fine lines

6. L'Occitane Foot cream-good for cracks on the heels

If you wish to read on other Anti-Aging Products, just Click on to shopping.yahoo.com/articles/yshoppingarticles/450/2010-anti-aging-awards-winners/

Makeup Review: Cream Eyeliners

Here are some of the eye liners I have tried and liked (and disliked)

CREAM EYE LINERS

1. Maybelline Eye Studio Gel Eyeliner :

•  This by far is my favorite liner! 
• Comes in 4 shades; black, brown, eggplant and charcoal (I haven't seen the last 2 shades here in Manila); color output is very solid (intense)
• Very creamy; almost feels like a thick consistency but when applied it is still smooth
• It really is waterproof
• Comes with a liner brush

     2. Clinique Brush - On Cream Liner:

• Comes in 4 shades; black, brown,grey and black honey
• Even though the formula is waterproof this didn't really last that long on my eye lids even with an eye lid primer under it
• For me, the color output was nothing special (I have the grey)
• Texture was smooth and consistency is light
• Comes with an eye liner brush which is too short for my hand and the bristles are too thick to give me the fine line I prefer creating
• Definitely not repurchasing 

Makeup Tool Review: Makeup Forever Sponge & Puff

There are different types of sponges available: the regular triangular sponge, the very popular Beauty Blender sponge (which I haven't tried) and then there's the Makeup Forever Sponge & Puff (which I have tried).

Makeup Forever Sponge

• They come in 1 size; it is round and very soft
• It does not leave any marks or streaks
• Lasts a pretty good while if you take care of it
• It does not soak up a lot of foundation when used

Makeup Forever Puff

• Black and comes in 2 sizes (small and large)
• Is able to pick up a good amount of loose powder without it falling off before application
• Very soft

The Sponge is about Php480.00 and the Puff Php600.00
Here in Manila their stores are located at Bonifacio Hi Street and at Shangri-la Plaza Mall.

Dr Jart is now available in Manila

Recently found out this product is now available in Manila. Mercury Drug recently launched this product and is also available in some salons. Mostly are located in QC and one in Ayala Alabang Country Club.

Check Manila Beauty Blog for more information.

Makeup Tip: How to make your lipstick last longer on your lips

Every time I would apply a lipstick, I would always wonder how to make it last longer on my lips without having to use a long lasting formula. Why, you may ask? Because I found out that long lasting lipsticks dry out my lips. So here are my tips; they actually worked for me and they might work for you as well.

1. Apply a lip balm on your lips then blot
2. Then apply a creamy concealer. Let it set/dry for a few seconds
3. If you usually use a lip liner, now would be a good time to apply it. Use the liner as a lip color as well or blend the liner onto your lips
4. Apply your 1st layer of lipstick, blot, then the 2nd layer of lipstick

Makeup Review: Maybelline Pure BB Mineral BB Base

I found this Maybelline BB cream when I was in Hong Kong with Dr. Evil. Her slight obsession with BB creams kind of rubbed off on me :)

PROS:

• Has an SPF 26/PA++
• Has 8 minerals to help improve the skin
• It evened out my skin tone
• Reduced the appearance of the fine lines under my eyes
• Lightened my under eye circles
• Helped brighten up my skin tone
• Has a cream to powder finish (on my skin)
• It didn't make my skin extra oily; actually, this cream was able to control it a bit

CONS:

• Has only 1 shade (light)

Follow Up: Hakuhodo Brush G527

I've been using this brush for almost a year now and I find that it still sheds. I don't know why but it's starting to get on my nerves :( .....Although I still use it once in a while but when I am in a rush I use another brush to apply my liquid foundation.

I have also decided to use this brush to apply my powder foundation/loose powder. And what do u know, it does not shed ( at times just a hair here and there). But definitely a major improvement from when I use it to apply liquid foundation. It is still 1 of my favorite brushes.

Makeup Review: Makeup Forever Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick

I have always been intrigued by Makeup Forever's new line of lipsticks so I finally gave in to my curiosity. I decided to purchase #48 (Satin Blackcurrant). It is very creamy and full of color; I was not disappointed (phew!) Definitely long lasting but does not dry out the lips. Loving it!!!

To prevent feathering you can either use a lip liner of the same shade or use the Lip Concealer before applying the lipstick.

Check out Rouge Artist Intense to see all the different shades available.

Me and My "Emergency" Beauty Kit

With what's happening around the world, you begin to ask yourself what should I bring in case something happens. I know it sounds superficial but I don't think there is anything wrong with still wanting to look decent even in tragedy. For the past 2 days, I've been having thought bubbles trying to piece together a simple, no nonsense beauty kit that can give a bit of comfort despite the situation you're in. Here's what I've come up with:

1. Tinted moisturizer- it's light and sheer. Easy to apply (no need for a foundation brush).

2. Tinted lip balm-or if you can find that's dual purpose for cheeks as well then that's even better.

3.eyeliner

4. compact pressed powder

5. toothbrush/toothpaste

6. blotting paper-preferably japanese made.

7. sunblock- if you can find in a stick form, better

8. nail cutter/file

9. listerine mouthspray-try true value for this one

10. cleansing wipes

But of course don't forget the essentials too (clothes, blanket, etc.), what's the use of the beauty kit if you're all naked right? :)

Skincare Review: Facial Therapy House Acne Control Skin Care Set

Facial Therapy House is a U.K. brand which specializes in skin care. Since I am always in the hunt for a good skin care kit, I am always willing to try out new products just in case I find the one. Good thing I did!!!

This kit includes: organic Tea Tree Soap, Toner, Sunblock and Whitening Cream.

• Organic Tea Tree Soap: Studies have shown that tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and wound-healing properties
• Toner: it contains salicylic acid, an effective acne treatment; I noticed that it does not not sting when applied on the pimples
• Whitening Cream: Since my pimples leave a mark after healing, it is very timing that I have a whitening cream to use to lighten up the scars made by the zits
• Sunblock: has a high SPF (50) and is very moisturizing; you only need a pea sized amount to use on your entire face and maybe a little more for the neck

Facial Therapy House currently has 3 skin care sets: Anti-aging, Acne Control and Whitening

If you're in the Philippines contact me to order. All points beyond, contact Facial Therapy House.

Makeup Artist Kit

What every Professional Makeup Artist should have in their Kit.

TOOLS:

1. Makeup Brushes. You might need 2 each of some types of eye brushes.
2. Tweezers, Eye Brow Shaver & Scissors. You might have to groom the brows of some of your clients.
3. False Eye Lashes and Lash Glue. To make a look more dramatic or for photography purposes.
4. Spatula & Palette. For mixing colors and for hygiene.
5. Disposable Mascara Wands. For Hygiene purposes.
6. Eye Lash Curler
7. Cotton Buds, Pads/Balls
8. Palette
9. Sponge
10. Velour Puff

MakeUp Review: Maybelline Expertwear Eye Shadow

Kimmy lent this to me. It's a matte eyeshadow in Earthly Taupe. This is a beauty find because it really does not crease and gives good coverage around the eyes for all day wear. Instead of concealer around the eyes, I use this one because it doesn't feel heavy or sticky. I have oily lids so it's really hard for me to find such an eyeshadow. Kimmy bought this in the US, have to check if it's available here.

Is this the answer to my dull hair?

For the past year my sister has been breathing down my neck to get somekind of treatment or buy a hair product to combat my dull, lifeless hair. Argh! Finally I go to this AVEDA salon in Hong Kong, right outside the hotel. I bought the SMOOTHING FLUID LOTION. Instructions are to either use on damp or dry hair. I decided to do both. Here's what I've noticed:

1. A bit of shine

2. Smell is addicting. Not too strong.

3. Flattens the stray hair that I abundantly have. pffft.

4. Does not leave my hair looking oily

All in all it was well worth it. Maybe next time I'll try the salon too. :)

Makeup Review: Mac Eye Shadow

On my recent trip to Hong Kong, eyeshadows were never on my list until I saw these shades called Ricepaper and Naked Lunch. I decided to go all out and purchased both. They are lightly pigmented and can be used as highlighters. Ricepaper is more on the light gold and Naked Lunch is on the pinkish hue. Don't you just love their names?? Combined with your favorite eyeliner, they're perfect eye brighteners.

Makeup Review: VMV Soft and Swift Makeup Remover

Sorry to say but there's nothing swift about this one. Used up about 20 cotton balls to remove everything and the only reason I stopped is because I ran out of cotton balls. Grrr. After a while your skin stings from all that alcohol you've been using. The best, so far, are the ones from L'oreal and Clinique which are oil based. Maybe the company could do another product redevelopment on this one. Or maybe rename it to Soft and Slow Makeup remover.

MakeUp Review: Chanel Waterproof Eyeliner

Another one to add to my collection. I bought black this time. I really don't know why I never bought one since it's always the go-to color when in doubt, right? It's retractable, so it's easy to handle. But sometimes I like the pencil type because I can control the tip by sharpening it. I tried to exercise with it just to see how it will handle perspiration and by golly miss molly it sure was a winner. No rocky balboa in sight. Phew! One of my Beauty buys for the month. The only drawback is the price. It's around p1,000+.

Chanel is available at Rustans.

Makeup Review: Maybelline Volum' Express Cat Eyes Hypercurl Mascara

The one thing I dislike about mascara is that it dries out or it gets clumpy after a few months. That's why I just buy the not-so-expensive ones.

The latest is this mascara - Maybelline Volum' Express Cat Eyes Hypercurl Mascara. Just so you know, this is going to be a rave review.

PROS:
1. Has an attractive pink leopard print design on the lid

2. The brush is very small, it's actually more like a comb which helps lengthen your lashes

3. Consistency of the mascara is just right, not watery nor is it dry

4. It really holds the curl! The longer you wear it the more curl you get

CONS:
1. I will post an update if I think of one :)

Definitely going to buy a back up or two!!!

Makeup Review: Makeup Forever Aqua Smoky Lash Mascara

Looking for another great mascara? Try Makeup Forever Aqua Smoky Lash.

Definitely helps thicken your lashes and lengthen it, too. Consistency is on the thick side so you might have to brush your lashes a few times so they won't clump together. The size of the brush is on the regular side, not too big like Cover Girl Lash Blast nor is it thin like some of Maybelline's.

I got a sample size at Makeup Forever in Hong Kong and I am really loving it. There is a probability that I will purchase once I run out. A must have in your makeup kit.

Makeup Review: Stila Smudge Pot

The Smudge Pot is Stila's version of the cream eye liner. I heard that this does not smudge so I immediately bought two! I got Kitten and Black; I thought I could use Kitten as an eye lid primer because it will keep my shadow from creasing. Was I wrong!!! It creased on me after an hour after applying.

I heard so many good things but in my experience this Smudge Pot is a disappointment. Not only did it smudge on my lids but it quickly dried up.