Beauty Junkie i.e Caby

Etude House Color my Brows

2012-01-18T17:25:00.005+08:00

The other day, I accompanied my friend Sheena to the beauty section of the department store. She had asked me to help her in building her basic make up kit. The beauty junkie that I am, agreed without even blinking an eye. The thought of just shopping for make up excited me (even though it's not for me haha). So I asked Sheena what her total budget was and we worked around from there.

Aside from splurging for you base makeup (Foundation, Concealer and Powder Foundation - the most important of all) , another thing worth considering is/are products for your eyebrows. Now if you're a beginner, this can become very tricky and disastrous ( Yes one wrong move or a little too much become TOO MUCH hehe). So one important thing to consider was convenience, the product needed to do the job without the case of disaster from trial and error, it needed to be easy to use. And as I was going around the beauty section, I came upon this product from Etude House:

Etude House Color My Brows
in 1: Rich Brown
PRICE: PHP328!

Here's a swatch of this color:

If you are familiar with MAC's Browset, this product from Etude house is similar to that. It also comes in a little tube and you apply the product with a spooly wand just like mascara. Although it's size is smaller and almost half to the size of MAC's it's definitely worth it for it's cheap price and the amazing quality you will get.

Here's my eyebrow, bare, untamed, shaped but needs more grooming (do forgive, I wish my eye brows looked perfect 24/7 haha).

Now here's what it looks like with just Etude House Color my Brows brushed on, no other products used or tools, this is directly from the wand of the product.

Isn't that wow? I really think this product is amazing, instant color and taming of the brow hairs in a matter of seconds! So when I saw this, I immediately asked the SA to give me 2, one for Sheena and the other for me hehe.

I decided that this product is perfect for a beginner like Sheena since:

1. Very easy to use and can be done in a matter of seconds.
2. Saves you from the horror of intimidating brow products like pencils/powders.
3. Cheap!
4. Colors your brows and shapes it all in one.

Although here are a few things to remember when using a product like this:

1. Your eyebrows must be properly groomed before using it.
2. If you have an extra spooly, use that to pick up the product from the original wand so that first application isn't too thick.
3. If you don't have an extra spooly, scrape of some of the product from the original wand on the side of the opening of the product.

Remember your eyebrows shape and frame the face, properly groomed eyebrows give an instant polish to your overall look.

Overall, I am excited that I saw this product, I give this a total of 3 thumbs up!! :) :) Such an amazing find!

Toodles! :)

Delicious Bright Pink!

2012-01-11T18:12:00.004+08:00

Hey Girls,

Here's a delicious picture of 3 of my favorite bright pink lippies. This bright almost neon pink obsession started with none other than MAC's Candy Yum Yum. Since I only bought one, the fear of it seeing the end frightened me! Thus I looked for dupes. Here they are side by side. :)

MAC's Candy Yum yum
Sleek Makeup lipstick in Fuchsia
Lime Crime lipstick in Countessa Fluorescent

Don't they just look delicious to you?! :) Do you girls know any other dupes or any notable bright pink lippy in the market? I kinda want more hehe Girls can never have enough lipsticks. :)

Toodles! :)

Traincase up for grabs!

2012-01-09T19:27:00.005+08:00

Hey Girls,

Happy New Year! :) Hope you all had a beauty filled Christmas season! Now that it's 2012, I have decided to slowly overhaul my equipment for work. Thus getting rid of some things that I hardly and well most probably don't use anymore. It's time to revamp the whole shebang ! :)

Do you guys remember my first ever makeup train case? :) I bought this baby back in 2009 and was so excited and giddy about this since I got it (Read story HERE). I had kept it very close to my bed and kept it clean like 24/7! haha

These are the photos taken a few days after it was purchased:

The traincase has 8 trays, 4 on each side and the bottom part is pretty deep and can hold a lot of things, even my folded make-up brush belt.

Oh gosh, that was my stash before even starting school! The days! haha

I bought this baby for PHP3500 which I haggled down from PHP4500, a pretty good deal since it had a trolley. I didn't even wear this train case out, since only after a couple of months I decided to buy a Trolley with Lights. It currently does have some signs of wear, like a few scratches here and there. I also still have some of the dividers on hand. But overall, this traincase is still in pretty much awesome shape! :)

If anyone is interested, send me and email at carla.avancena@gmail.com I am willing to give this up for a very reasonable price. I can also send current pics to those interested. However shipping for this item is not possible, only meet ups for this in agreed areas only. :)

Let me know!

Toodles! :)

Carla

I have been good: Birthday/Christmas wishlist! :)

2011-12-06T13:36:00.003+08:00

Christmas is literally just around the corner, a time of giving and receiving. Throughout the year we always look forward to Christmas because the festive season allows us to wish and if lucky own the things we want. :) I have been so good this year! haha here's my Christmas wish list:

ZUCA for MAC

These days I hardly bring my portable makeup trolley with mirror and lights to shoots, especially when I know that the place of shoot already has a dressing room fit with mirror and lights but if otherwise I bring my trolley. The reason I hardly bring my trolley is because it is so heavy! Thus 1st on my list is this ZUCA for MAC bag. I think this is perfect, easy to lug around and it also doubles as a chair! Also for now, this is more practical than getting an assistant to help carry my things. Haha :)

Blackberry Bold 9900

I have been a crackberry since 2007 and I haven't turned back since. Blackberry is essential to my life, from emails, messaging and data. So when news came out of this Blackberry Bold, I knew I had to have it. But, my current Blackberry bold is still in perfect condition and even though I want this new Bold badly, I still can't justify spending on cellphones. Hehe this is on my list for Santa haha :)

Tory Burch Eddie Crystal Bow Ballet Flats

Pretty yes? YES. Even prettier when you try them on for yourself. Which I did, and am now thinking that I shouldn't have. I thought I wasn't gonna fall in love with this pair with me harmlessly reaching out for it and trying it on (just because it was my size). But no. It's soft leather and crystal bow glitz and oh so comfortable sole had me captured. Now I AM HAUNTED. And when I get haunted, I HAVE TO HAVE IT. Thus I promised myself, I will only buy it after all my Christmas shopping. But if anyone decides to play Secret Santa, do note that I am a size 6 for this shoe. Haha :)

Wicked The Musical in SG

Above everything that I want this Christmas TO WATCH WICKED THE MUSICAL IN SG tops my list. The story is so dear to me and I really want to watch this musical. For friends who have seen it in other parts of the world, they say that it is one of their favorite musicals. I love musicals, even though I have only seen a few in my life. I must come out to see the confused green skinned Elphaba and Best friend Glinda. I want to cry my eyes out and sing to all the songs. Wicked will be running in SG till February, and I do hope I get to catch a show. WICKED WICKED WICKED WICKED WICKED WICKED (The Secret, saying it over and over will get me there haha).

So those are the things that are on my Christmas wish list. I really hope that I can come around and get some myself or get some as gifts. Haha Anyway, Tis the season to give and to receive. But above all, Tis the season to share love and happiness. :)

Share the joy my friends! :)

Toodles! :)

My favorite neutral crease colors

2011-12-04T15:18:00.006+08:00

Hi all, a blessed Sunday to everyone and to the girlies from Manila; A cozy snuggle-fest weather to you. :) I recently discovered my addiction to neutral colored crease eye shadow. The crease color can depend on what type of makeup look you are going for, but for me the safest way to go are neutral colors, my favorite are the mid tone brown shades.

Here are my favorite crease color shades:
From top to bottom:
Soba, Cork, Wedge

Swatches:
Soba, Cork, Wedge

From left to right:
Seedling, Moleskin, Outre

Swatch from left to right:
Seedling, Moleskin, Outre

These are my most favorite crease colors from MAC. The reason why I have a lot of crease color favorites is because, not all shadows colors go well or actually even register color on everyone. So having a number of choices is good. :)

What are your favorite crease colors? :)

Toodles! :)

Lime Crime Lipstick in Countessa Flourescent and Centrifuschia

2011-11-29T16:05:00.007+08:00

When I saw swatches and pictures online of people wearing Lime Crime lipsticks, the first thing I that came to mind was literally "WOW", the bright lipsticks were so hard to resist that I just needed to get me at least 1. But before I usually purchase a product, especially If I have to buy it online, I do a ton of research so that I won't regret the color I'll be getting. In to my research, I was getting pretty skeptic because of the mixed reviews. So I decided to get the lippies that had the more positive things said about them, the lippies I got are:

Countessa Flourescent and Centrifuschia

Countessa Flourescent Swatch (Top)
Centrifuschia (Bottom)

From the bright swatches, there's no question that your lips will be the focus that everyone will notice right away. That's what I love about these lippies, they can stand on their own.

I decided to get Countessa Flourescent because the reviews said that this was the closest shade compared to MAC's famous Candy Yum Yum, now I love Candy Yum Yum and I'm super sad I only got 1 tube. The fear of running out of Candy Yum Yum haunts me, so I decided to get this Lime Crime dupe. It did not fail, it is as bright and as amazing as Candy Yum Yum. Even my mentor and friend RB Chanco thinks so too. :)

On the other hand I chose Centrifuschia too well, just because i thought it was a pretty color. Hehe. Again it did not fail me, it goes on so smoothly, lasts long and hardly bleeds. :)

This is me wearing Centrifuschia

I've had these lippies for a few months now and I'm pretty happy with their performance, though here are some tips to note down if you are planning to buy Lime Crime Lippies:

- Some of their lipsticks after applying settle in a funny way. This was one major consideration and one of the biggest negative review of the lime crime lipsticks that I read. Some of their lipsticks settle in the lines and look oily (my experience with Countessa Flourescent), BUT, do not fear, here are some solutions to avoid this:

a) Use a lip brush to apply, I've noticed that this way it doesn't settle
b) If you don't have a lip brush, apply lipstick directly on lips, Blot, and re-apply.

- The lippies also have a tendency to bleed, so I suggest using a lip liner first. :)

- These lipsticks last long, and have lip staining ingredients in them. So at the end of the day, give your lips a good scrub to make sure that no residue is left on your lips. :)

Hope this review helps! :)

Toodles! :)

CHALK Dec-Jan issue

2011-11-28T18:20:00.003+08:00

Hey guys, grab a copy of CHALK Magazine December-January issue with Xian Lim on the cover. The Beauty Editorial features the trends from Fall/Winter 2011 that you can surely sport in this season's many many celebrations. :)

Makeup by yours truly and Maui, thank you once again Chalk Beauty Editor Michelle Katigbak-Alejandro for trusting and believing in us! Awesome styling by Kate Paras and photos by Dix Perez :)

Here's are the looks that I did for model Isabel Collins :)

Happy Monday all! :)

Toodles! :)

SLEEK Makeup lipsticks

2011-11-27T18:53:00.003+08:00

Hey all, a blessed Sunday to everyone! I just got home from a quick afternoon shopping at the St. James Bazaar in Alabang. This bazaar is a yearly thing from me, you can practically find anything you want and need for yourself and presents for others. We got lucky with parking too, parked right in front of the entrance. :)

One of the surprises i saw and immediately chose from was a wide selection of SLEEK makeup. I only know of this brand from other international bloggers as they blog mostly about the Sleek eye shadow palettes. I was more fascinated with their lipsticks at only PHP400 per tube!

Here's what i came home with:

Sleek Lipstick in:
Mystic (Matte)
Fuschia (Sheen)

Swatch of Mystic (left) and Fuschia (right) and a showcase of my arm candy hehe

I really really love how pigmented the lippies from Sleek are, I am actually regretting I didn't buy more. Hehe

Here's me wearing Mystic:

Goodnight All!

Toodles! :)

Hitting pan once again! :)

2011-11-25T23:11:00.007+08:00

Don't you just love hitting pan on your products? I definitely do because I get to see which products I lean more towards and it means time to replenish (a.k.a shopping for new makeup) :)

Here are my top hit pan items for 2011. BTW, these are the make up used in my Professional Kit. :)

Favorite Shadows for 2011:
MAC eye shadow in Ricepaper, perfect for lids and for brow highlighter.

MAC eye shadows in Soba, Cork and Wedge; I have an obsessions with the mid tone browns crease colors hence the hitting pan :)

MAC eye shadows in Yogurt and Orb, another lid color favorite :)

Foundation

MAC Powder Foundation in NC42

MAC Pro Longwear Foundation NC30 and Powder Foundation also in NC30, these 2 have hit pan the same time mainly because of this girl below:

Angeline Quinto on the Buzz, Photo credits from Push.com.ph

So those were my items that quickly hit pan for this year, what are the products that you have used over and over this 2011? :)

I will leave you with a video of Angeline Quinto singing You light up my life on ASAP last November 20, 2011 which happened to be her birthday celebration on the said show. Makeup by yours truly. :) Enjoy!

Toodles!! :)

Thank you 2011!

2011-11-25T12:57:00.004+08:00

I cannot even begin to describe how wonderful 2011 has been for me. I have been blessed with such an amazing career this year that it has kept me sane! :) Even though I have lacked seriously with blogging this year, i assure you all that make-up was never out of the picture. It really is awesome when you do what you love for a living. Happy thanksgiving all!

Here's a portrait of what best describes me; vanity, makeup, true love and macarons! :)

Cheers to a wonderful 2011 and here's a toast for an even better 2012! :)

Toodles! :)

US Makup Haul

2011-09-26T17:46:00.003+08:00

In my recent trip to the US (for work), so that I won't be buying impulsive makeup I went with a list of what to buy before I even left Manila. Well we all know that didn't really work out as planned. Haha But I am glad to say that this has got to be my most conservative loot to date!

Most of the items I got were to replace almost empty products and the others, well just a few knick knacks that I figured I would need. (Figure being the key word! :P )

Photo was taken in Instagram hence the effect hehe

Aquaphor
Maybeline Mascara
Sephora Conceler
MAC Chromagraphic Pencil in Process Magenta
MAC e/s in: Moleskine, Carbonized, Bisque, Cross Cultural, Liberty of London
MAC Blunt
MAC Pro Longwear Foundation in NC30
MAC Studio Fix Powder in NC30
MAC Prep and Prime Pressed Translucent Powder
MAC Lipmix in Red, White
NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in San Paulo, Tokyo

Here is my conservative loot! :) Out of the products my favorites have got to be the MAC Lipmix - which I got in Red and White, and the MAC Prep and Prime Pressed Translucent Powder. :)

From this US trip, I had the most fun time shopping in the MAC Pro Store in The Forum Shops Ceasars Palace in Las Vegas. I was like a little girl jumping from table to table trying and swatching the products. I had such a great time too with all the MAC artists so accommodating. I went back a couple of times during my week stay in Vegas. Had I the chance to buy the whole store and take it home I would. :P But don't we all. :) Glad to say that I had tons of self control buying only the things I would need! :)

Shopping for make up is always love. :)

Toodles! :)

Carla

What are your MAC must have products?

2011-08-10T00:00:00.007+08:00

It's no secret that probably the most popular and well trusted brand when it comes to make up is MAC whether for professional artists or not. MAC has been around for a number of years now and has ever since never failed when it comes to their marketing strategies. From Back to Mac, to a huuuggeee line of products and to the always exciting seasonal collections, they always know how to keep their customers wanting more.

I must admit, I have fallen into the MAC trap (I was sorta anti-MAC before but now i eat my words!) and I can't get enough of the brand! My kit has transformed and is now 85% MAC filled and it just keeps on growing. I want to share with you all my can't-live-without-must-have MAC products.

MAC Eye Shadows
Photo taken from Temptalia

MAC has got to be the brand that carries a full range of colors and finishes for its eye shadows. At first, I thought they were overpriced and any eyeshadow will do. But once I started taking Makeup Artistry seriously, the main problem I faced with other eye shadow brands was that there was fall out and the colors just wouldn't stick. Until I tried MAC eye shadows, the color output was superb, hardly any fall out and the colors just blend well. Yes, you pay a pretty hefty price per eye shadow but it definitely is worth it. MAC eye shadows are top on must-have list.

MAC Brushes
Photos taken from MAC Website

MAC is also well known for their make up brushes because of their quality and many rave reviews. You may think that any other brush can do the job because yes, I used to also think that way, but what I've realized is that without the right tools, you can't achieve perfection. Sounds so way up there huh? Haha but to clear that out, when I say right tools, what I'm looking for is a product that is made with top notch quality to help it last a long time, a product that can produce the same result every time and one that I can use with utmost ease. And with the wide array of MAC brushes, these have got to be my must-haves:

MAC 190
Can be used for cream and liquid foundation, out of all foundation brushes I have tried and own, this gives me the least streaks and most of the time gives me no streaks at all. Thus making my foundation application flawless every time.

MAC 109
This brush is raved for it's flawless-ness when used to apply liquid foundation in a buffer motion, that is true yes because for a time that's what I used it for. But after that I realized that because the brush really isn't intended for liquid products it encountered more shedding, thus is shifted it's purpose. I started using this brush to set liquid foundation with powder foundation. Because of its round-ness it is like a 'kabuki on a stick' and the size perfect for buffing making sure every corner and crevice of the face is reached.

MAC 266
I really can't live without this brush. This is my best friend hand-in-hand to help create the best looking eye brows in every face. Perfect angle and perfect shape, it works 100% with my favorite brow products.

MAC Brow Set
Photo taken from MAC Website

I don't know of any other brand that can come close to a product like MAC's Brow Set. It looks like mascara but this baby is intended to give your brows the tint that it needs. Aside from the tint, it also helps keeps your unruly brows polished. I start panicking when I see this product running out in my kit. I love it that much.

MAC Fluidline
Photo taken from MAC Website

Almost every cosmetic brand has their own gel liner, but MAC's version is just so convenient to use. It glides on like silk, dries to a matte finish and looks smooth every time. Just always make sure to not leave it open for long and close it tightly so it doesn't dry easily.

With MAC's full range of products, most of what I have in my kit if not all are well used and really treasured, but the ones that I have mentioned above have got to be the products that can't be beaten by other brands.

What about you girls, which MAC Products are your must-haves? :) Can't wait to read all your answers. :)

Toodles! :)

The on-the-go bag

2011-08-05T15:20:00.001+08:00

On days when I know work won't require me to bring my lighted train case, I save myself the effort (loading and unloading from my car, carrying it up flights of stairs which tires me out even before I begin the actual work haha) and bring with me a smaller kit. This smaller kit is already filtered and includes only makeup I would need, especially when it's me doing makeup for a regular client and or you know the venue of makeup is equipped with lighting and a mirror to use.

A few days ago, after a beauty ed for a magazine, I decided to drop by the Suesh showroom to just look around (I laugh at myself for thinking I would just "look around") and came home with this baby, my new on-the-go makeup kit bag.

Description from Suesh
- Stylish padded canvas bag perfect for girls who are always on the go.
- Zebra print
- Dimensions: 13 x 7.5 x 8.5 inches

--- PHP1,200

Here's what the bag looks like open with my stash inside :)

Brush belt goes on top of the pile, fits perfectly in the bag without deforming any brush and notice how the inside of the cover has provisions for brushes too :)

Brush belt out, and surprise at all that room for my kit :)

Everything that was inside the bag :)

Inside the bag

Here's the inside empty, roomy enough t fit all the things you will need plus inside also has a lot of pockets for little things. The outside of the bag too is surrounded with pockets so there is plenty of room for everything.

When I bought this bag, it answered all my considerations in looking for an on the go kit. It was large enough to fit everything yet not too bulky to lug around, it had extra pockets, it was light and the design and print is funky to bring around. :)

The best part is that, setting up and packing up is such a breeze, storing things in little bags like lipstick, eye liners and the likes helps too so that there's less clutter. This bag is perfect! :)

Toodles! :)

MAC Prolongwear lipstick in Goes and Goes

2011-08-03T15:39:00.005+08:00

Hey guys, posting another review on my MAC Prolongwear Lipstick collection in the shade of Goes and Goes. I have constantly mentioned in my blog posts my love for MAC Prolongwear lipsticks. Just like MAC Matte lipsticks they really last long on your lips after hours and hours without feathering. The bestest best part is that it isn't drying on the lips, even after hours its formula helps keep your lips hydrated thus giving it a matte finish that is not drying. :)

Goes and Goes is a Blue Violet Shade

Here's a swatch of Goes and Goes compared to other MAC Lipsticks

From top to Bottom:

Candy Yum Yum

Pro Longwear in Overtime

Pro Longwear in Love Forever

Pro Longwear in GOES AND GOES

This lipstick though, I don't know I have mixed feelings with. I find that it doesn't really complement medium-darker skin tones. Also I feel that it's not a shade that can be used for everday wear. Although I don't regret purchasing this because I know it will come in handy with a not so usual concept shoot for work. :)

Below is a pic of me and Angel, Angel is my make up mentor RB Chanco's loveable assistant. Angel is wearing MAC Pro Longwear in Goes and Goes, he is the first to try the lipstick since I have yet to use it for work. So for everyone's reference here's a pic of Goes and Goes worn by Angel. :)

Tillmy next post!

Toodles! :)

MAC Matte lipstick in Candy Yum-Yum

2011-06-05T10:53:00.004+08:00

In my previous post, I described this lipstick as being infamous. Candy Yum Yum is a matte lipstick, a limited edition product which was part of the Quite Cute collection. Before the collection even came out, a lot of buzz was going round about this neon pink must-have lipstick. Because I'm a makeup junkie i just NEEDED it with the fact in mind that it will be out of stock most probably everywhere! So I searched high and low, did what I could to get my hands on one. Thus being infamous, the lipstick sold out right away and getting one was no regret ( Oh I regret not buying 2 actually!).

Candy Yum-Yum is a bright neon pink lipstick and when applied literally looks like it's being lit up, most especially on my dark asian skin tone (think a reflector jacket but without needing light to illuminate it) although don't get me wrong, it is beautiful when worn! :)

Here's the swatch on my hand, although this picture doesn't give justice to it's brightness!

To show you how bright the lipstick is on me, here are pictures of me wearing Candy Yum-Yum under natural lighting.

See how the lipstick is just lighting up on my dark skin tone? The lipstick is just shouting "I'm here go look at my brightness!" haha and i love every bit of it. :)

Here's a run-down on Candy Yum-Yum

Likes:
- A great unconventional addition to the kit
- It's Neon!
- The matte formula allows it to sit on your lips longer without bleeding
- In my opinion it suits all skin colors

Dislikes:
- I only bought one
- It's freakin limited edition

I really really love this lipstick, I think it complements everyone giving just the right amount of spunk to your look. I just wish it becomes part of the permanent collection or they decide to release this shade again. :)

Toodles! :)

I've become addicted to lipsticks

2011-06-02T11:52:00.004+08:00

I feel so ashamed, that it has grown accustomed to me to apologize at every beginning of my blog posts. I know I have promised to blog more often and I know I have not lived up to that promise, but I do assure you that I have a valid reason hehe. From January up to this month, work has been over pouring and over whelming that when I have time, instead of blogging, I find myself asleep and resting on my bed. But although I have been super busy, I have not changed one bit with my makeup hoarding! :) And recently I noticed I've become addicted to lipsticks hehe.

Here are my latest hoards:

Left to Right:
The Infamous Candy Yum Yum from the Quite Cute Collection
MAC Pro Longwear Lipstick in Overtime
MAC Pro Longwear Lipstick in Love Forever
MAC Pro Longwear Lipstick in Goes and Goes
Wet and Wild Mega Last Lip Color in 905D Smokin Hot Pink
MAC Lip Pencil in In Synch from the Quite Cute Collection

I didn't realize I was hoarding so much on lip products until I saw my stash and realized they were all still in boxes. I don't know why but I have recently become addicted to lipsticks, and it hasn't even ended, I have a few more lipsticks I ordered coming soon! Weeeh more lippies! :)

As for now, these are my new babies. :) Which one of the lip products do you want to see swatched? :)

Let me know. :)

Toodles! :)

The MAC 189 Brush

2011-03-18T22:20:00.000+08:00

I used to think that all brushes were equal regardless if they were branded or not. Then I used to think that buying brushes under a certain brand was just merely a marketing strategy. This was until I became a make up artist and realized that our face need corresponding brushes that will complement the contours it has and not all brushes can do the job well done. With this you know you have a good brush when everything about it is thought about, from its shape, its bristles, density, size and etc.

That's exactly what I felt when I purchased this one of a kind MAC Brush. The MAC 189.

The MAC 189 is no longer available in the MAC website but as far as I can remember this brush retailed for about $50. A hefty price I know but it is surely worth it. I purchased mine at a CCO for about $28, so for those who have access to a CCO nearby I do suggest you check them out. Also since I am not sure if this is a discontinued brush or a PRO product only.

Compared to the MAC 190 foundation brush, you can clearly see how much bigger the bristles are. The bristles are made from Natural animal hair and is about double the size of the MAC 190, making it perfect for application of foundation on the face and Body.

What makes this brush super unique is that the bristles are incredible-y soft yet so so so dense. This makes it perfect for foundation application whether you are using liquid or cream foundation. The density allows you a flawless application one with less streaks on the face. This is also great when used with powder foundation since it buffs in the product better and also, no product goes to waste.

Overall, I think this brush is really a smart purchase. The only thing that can set you back from purchasing this brush in my opinion is:

1. Availability - Since it's no longer available in the MAC website it may now be discontinued or a PRO product.
2. Price - It was priced at $50 in the website but I purchased this for $28 in CCO. Still a hefty price both ways.

But on the other hand this brush has more good to it:

1. 1 Brush for all - can be used with Cream, Liquid and Powder Foundation.
2. Fast - With its size, you get the job done faster without compensating on the quality of work.
3. Big - It's such a big sized brush it can be used for both face and body.
4. Limitless - This brush is not only for foundation type it can be used for other things too. ( I use it to apply body shimmer to certain areas of the body such as the collar bone).
5. Sturdy - This is such a sturdy brush, I'm sure it will last me a long time. :)

So what do you guys think? The MAC 189 surely is one of my favorite brushes. :) What are yours?

Toodles! :)

What's been keeping me busy

2011-03-17T11:02:00.005+08:00

Hi girls,

Yes yes, I know I have been absent in the blogger scene for the past couple of months (almost 3 to be exact). But I do have a valid reason for that, my work has been taking the driver seat in my life for the past couple of months and it has been nothing but bliss. :)

Here's what has been keeping me busy for the past couple of months:

Print Advertorials

Advertising work

eLive on some Saturdays

Shoots

Shoot with CS Toledo

My sister's wedding

Star Power 5 girls:
Angeline, Akiko, K-La, Monica and Krissel
From their journey in the show until the finals, from Star Power to Asap.

So that's a glimpse of what has been really keeping me on my toes for the past couple of months. It has been tiring but super duper fun! :)

Btw, please please grab a copy of CHALK Magazine March 2011 issue, me and Maui have an article there. :)

Toodles! :)

A Flawless Big 4 day summer promo!

2011-03-17T10:30:00.003+08:00

Flawless Face and Body Clinic has come up with a very special treat for everyone. We have all been affected with the recent political and environmental unrest happening here and around the world and one way or the other this may have affected us emotionally and physically. It's almost summer, let us all look and feel good about ourselves this season.

For 4 days only (March 17-20), Flawless is offering 50% off on their best services to get your skin smooth, youthful and radiant! :) You get Flawless hot summer services at half off the price!!! :) Here are the special offers for only 4 days!

Get a single session of Laser hair removal on your underarms, lower legs or bikini area at 50% off! :)
Get smooth and even skin with Flawless White Injectables at 50% off! :)
Make your skin youthful and supple with Youth Boosters at 50% off! :)
The best selling Flawless Nano Powerpeel is also on 50% off!!! :) :) (Read about my Nano Powerpeel experience here )

What are you guys waiting for? grab this 4-day special opportunity from flawless and feel better about yourself. :)

To get the latest news and promos about flawless like Flawless face and Body Clinic on Facebook. :)

See you all in Flawless in the next 4 days! :)

Toodles! :)

A Beautiful 2011! and first Haul!

2011-01-13T09:39:00.001+08:00

Hi Girls,

This is my first post for 2011 and I would just like to greet everyone a Happy Happy New Year! :) May 2011 be filled with love, happiness and a whole lot of beauty! :)

This year I have decided to focus so much on my work as a make up artist, this is the year I will conquer the industry. 2010 was filled with so much blessings and good decision making. I also hope to blog more. I have been guilty the past couple of weeks for not being able to blog, Work got pretty hectic last December. But in 2011 I will try my very best to squeeze in blogging my new goodies. :)

Speaking of new goodies, look at what came in for me this morning:

Isn't it such a wonderful morning? Got some Mac goodies sent from Canada for my kit upgrading. :) Starting the year with an upgrade, the rest of the year follows. :)

Only better things to come for everyone! :)

So, I wish you all a beautiful 2011! Let's not let beauty go out of style :)

Toodles! :)

An early Birthday and Christmas Gift!

2010-12-19T00:18:00.000+08:00

Hi all, I know i have lacked in the regular updates, product reviews and in all makeup related with this blog. I have been a little busy with work since December is a crazy month for Make Up Artists. I have been so busy that I forgot that Christmas is so close and my birthday even closer (December 20). But amidst the crazy sched, I received such a wonderful surprise. Probably one of the best in my life so far. Something which reminded me that yes, Christmas and My Birthday is just around the corner, and I received such a wonderful gift. :)

I was featured in Metro Weddings Volume 10 No. 2 in a half page article about my work. And I tell you I am in total Bliss! It is such a wonderful blessing. This year has got to be the best year in my life so far. I am so happy that I finally found myself in this industry. Here's the feature in the magazine.

Click image to enlarge and click again for a closer look

A cropped version

So far it has been such a wonderful journey. I am ecstatic beyond words for this and I can't stop smiling. I really from the bottom of my heart thank the beautiful Metro Weddings Editor-in-chief Michelle Katigbak-Alejandro for this dazzling feature, thank you so so so much! Thank you to Sheena Ramos for the awesome write-up and to Cathlyn Pavia for her beautiful face. You guys are in my hearts forever. You have no idea how happy you guys have made me. :)

For those residing in Manila and in the Philippines, you can grab a copy of this issue's Metro Wedding Magazine in the nearest news stands and bookstores. :) This issue features the beautiful bride to be Kristine Hermosa and a lot more real life brides, beauty and wedding fashion features.

Happy Christmas Y'all! Let's share the blessings through love and happiness :)

Toodles! :)

Talika Lipocils Expert: Longer, thicker and fuller lashes! :)

2010-12-12T19:42:00.004+08:00

Just like full eyebrows, I am really big on big, full, long and thick lashes. I'm addicted to mascaras that promise me bigger and fuller lashes. Nowadays I feel empty when I don't get to make my lashes feel fuller and longer with different products. That's why when an angel (also known as Gian) sent me a package , it immediately fluttered my fancy. Gian sent me a sample of Talika Lipocils Expert.

"Discover the absolutely safe solution to naturally enhance the beauty of your lashes in just 28 days.
This amazing lash enhancer is composed of a blend of natural actives from the inventor of the original eyelash growth product in 1948 in France. It has no side effect.
Whether you feel your lashes look too short, sparse, brittle or lack shine and curl, or if you just dream of longer, shinier, sexier looking lashes, Lipocils Expert is your answer…. without side effects."

Talika is simple in creating products that give solution to our appearance's stressful concerns such as our eyes, nails, hands, face and skin. We all want to look better and with Talika's innovation in giving us products that provide emergency solutions for immediate results, they are sure to cater to everyone's needs.

I'm really excited to see the results of Talika's Lipocils expert on my eye lashes. I am currently using them now and will definitely show you guys the results. :) Everyone should have flirty lashes, and now that's possible with Talika's Lipocils Expert! :)

If you are interested in trying this wonderful product, you may place your orders at:

www.talika.com

Soon, these products will be available in local department stores! Weeeehh! :)

Toodles! :)

MAC Pro Longwear Lipcreme

2010-11-25T23:56:00.004+08:00

I will give a short but sweet review on probably one of the best lipsticks on earth. I purchased MAC's new Prolongwear lipcreme while I was on my MAC shopping spree in Vancouver back in September and since then they have been my go-t0-lipstick.

It comes in a different packaging from the regular mac lipsticks and actually looks sleeker. :)

I got them in 2 shades, Perpetual Flame and Unlimited

Notice how much I've used already! :)
Perpetual Flame (Left)
Unlimited (Right)

Perpetual Flame (Top)
Unlimited (Bottom)

What I really love about this lipstick is that it stays put for so long but isnt drying on the lips. When I use this lipstick, I receive so many compliments from my friends since they notice that even after a ton of drinks I still have lipstick! :)

Here's a picture of me and my friends during a birthday celebration. The time of the pic taken was probably around 12 midnight. I applied perpetual flame at 6pm and I have not yet retouched the lipstick and by that time, I already had drinks after the other. Lipstick still in tact! :)

My friend Mar, Moi and Jaja :)

I definitely give this lipstick all stars and thumbs up! :) And I will definitely repurchase and buy more colors! :)

Toodles! :)

NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dolce Vita

2010-11-17T15:43:00.010+08:00

Don't you just love sudden splurges? I must say yes even though it burns the pocket. I made a sudden splurge yesterday at NARS, I finally purchased their Velvet Matte Lip Pencil. I have been wanting this product for a long time now but the steep price always sets me back.

Nars Velvet Matte Lipstick in Dolce Vita
$24 in the States
PHP1300 in local Nars Counters
Purchased at: Rustans Shangri-la

"Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
Combining the convenience of a pencil with the application of a lipstick in a jumbo-sized crayon design, these pigment-rich sticks provide a matte, creamy finish that will not dry the lips. Enriched with emollients, vitamin E, and unique silicones, each gorgeous shade glides on and stays put.
Size: 0.086 oz"
Dolce Vita

After swatching Dolce Vita on the counter I knew this was a color that would fit my skin color. It looked naturally flushed but not too much. The best part of the product is the texture, "velvet matte" it really feels velvetty and is matte but does not feel dry.
The only thing about it is (aside from its price) is that it doesn't stay as long as my favorite MAC Pro Longwear Lipstick, you have to keep applying this product every now and then. :)
Here's me the same night I bought the lipstick over family dinner. I love the color :)
Toodles! :)

P.S Really sorry about the different font sizes, my blogger is acting up. lol

Kryolan Dermacolor Concealor Wheel

2010-11-02T15:44:00.004+08:00

One product I am obsessed about is foundation. No matter how many foundations I already have in my kit, I always make it to a point to compare different foundations. This was the case when I visited the Kryolan showroom in San Fransisco. As all of you may know, Kryolan has a ton range when it comes to foundation alone. Because of the wide range they had, I asked for assistance and specifically asked for something that would:

a) Do a good job in covering blemishes without looking cakey
b) Something that is light, not heavy on skin (unlike TV Paint Stick)
c) Has yellow undertones

When I told the helpful SA in Kryolan what I was looking for in a foundation, they handed me the Kryolan Dermacolor Concealor Wheel.

I know what you may be thinking, why but a concealer wheel to act as a foundation when ryolan has so many foundation lines out there. My answer is simple, it can provide the most coverage with very little product and its the only wheel with a yellow undertone. Most of the kryolan foundation palette's closest to Asian skin is in Olives but I was still skeptic. Thus, I got this wheel.

"The most effective and long lasting professional makeup for the concealment of tattoo, scars and skin pigment displacements.

It includes the following 6 colors from dark to light: D375, D100, D61, D4, D3, and D32"

D375, D100,1, D4, D3, D32

From the swatches you can see that the product is really pigmented, and this wheel alone can cover both cool and warm undertones given the red (D32) and yellow (D3). So this product hits 2 birds with 1 stone. :) In the case of asian skin or warm undertones, I mixed both D100 and D3 to match with the client's skin tone. And the result is Flawless, full coverage but light on skin make up. hat i like about it best is that whenit sets, the product looks just like skin! Allowing you a flawless face everytime! :)

Below is my good friend Dia, i did her make up using Kryolan's Dermacolor Concealor Wheel. Dia has some blemish marks left by pimples making Dermacolor a perfect product for her. Here's her Before and After picture. What do you guys think? Isn't she beautiful? :)

(click to enlarge)

Kryolan Dermacolor Concealor Wheel now finds itself a home in my make up kit. It is an awesome go to whenever I need a foundation with more coverage. I am really happy I came about this product. :)

Toodles! :)

Heaven sent: Beauty So Clean Cosmetic Sanitizer

2010-10-26T16:21:00.004+08:00

This has got to be one of the most useful products I have ever purchased for my kit. As you all know, it is important to keep your make up sanitized and clean. There are a couple of ways to do so like never dipping your brush directly into a cream product, using spatulas, always using clean brushes. But now I am so happy that I encountered this new product during my vacation in North America. It's called Beauty So Clean The World's First Cosmetic Sanitizer!

Especially as a make up artist, you always want to keep you kit clean. The last thing you want to happen is for your products to produce bacteria through cross contamination. I first encountered this product when Crystal S. sent me samples from her contest, immediately I decided I should get myself a big bottle for me to use at home. Until I forgot about it and I visited the Holly North Supply Store in Vancouver Canada, I saw the product again and had no second thoughts and purchased it then and there. :)

Beauty So Clean comes in a convenient spritzer that deposits just the right amount so the product does not soak in the sanitizer (which it is not supposed to) :)

Here are the ingredients of Beauty So Clean and also Directions on how to use the product:

Please click image to see larger

I personally love using the product for my powder Foundations, Eye shadows and lipstick palette. Beauty So Clean also has wipes which they recommend for pencils, lipsticks and the smaller products. Although for me, since my lipsticks are all in palettes, I spray beauty So Clean on them let it sit for at least a minute then gently wipe off the top layer of the lipstick with wet ones.

About to sanitize my lipstick palette :)

If you want to learn more about Beauty So Clean, you can check out their website and their whole product range here:

www.beautysoclean.com

Let's make it a habit and regularly clean and sanitize our products whether they are personal or for professional use. :)

Toodles! :)

MAC Pro Long Wear Foundation with SPF10

2010-10-19T15:34:00.008+08:00

In my quest to add liquid foundation in my kit I was choosing over 3 notable foundations. These foundations were Face Atelier's Ultra Foundation, Bobbi Brown's Natural Finish Foundation and lastly MAC's Pro Long Wear Foundation. I ended up getting MAC since not only was it the most convenient and cost efficient for my kit, this new foundation from MAC really lives up to its name being PRO Longwear. For the Pro's and is longwearing. :)

MAC Pro Longwear Foundation with SPF 10
NC20, NC40, NC45

"

I did extensive research on the MAC Pro Longwear foundation before I decided to buy it. I also swatched it many times that I had a chance to pass by a MAC store, and until i bought the product and really put it on the road for testing was I convinced! Most reviews I have read states it to be the best MAC foundation date. Now I was never a MAC foundation fan, I have the Studio sculpt which I love for its coverage but it gets kinda oily. So I wouldn't know what other MAC foundations would be like since I mainly use cream foundation for my clients. But this foundation? I L-O-V-E!!!!!

To give you a backgrounder, I have crazy oily skin and when I use foundation (whatever foundation it may be) I get conscious and check the mirror like every hour to check if my face shines. And usually it does, whether little shine or massive hello blot my face already shine. So you have no idea how happy I was when I find a foundation that allows me lesser "shine moments" like before. Mind you, I still get oily that's just how my skin is, but with this foundation, I noticed that I don't oil as frequently as I did before and that when I do oil, it is not that much. Let's break it down:

Unlike other MAC foundations, MAC Pro Longwear comes in a glass bottle with a pump. Having a pump is more hygienic and the best part of it all you can control how much product comes out of the nozzle, which I like because I tend to get OC with my products hehe.

I first tried this foundation when I was in Vancouver and it worked well for me there. But let's face it, Vancouver weather is far from Manila weather, almost the total opposite. So whenI put this baby to the test in Hot Tropical Manila, I was surprised to find that it still worked, i would occasionally oil but not as bad as I expected. And even if I oil, the FOUNDATION STAYED PUT! AMAZING!

So here's a little experiment I did to show how true to its name this foundation really is.

NC20 swatched back of my hand
(My skin tone is NC42, I used NC20 for the purpose of this experiment so you can see the foundation)

Initially spread into skin under natural lighting

Under white lighting in the bathroom before running under water

While running under water you can see that the NC20 MAC Pro Longwear foundation is staying put and not being washed away.

Just right after running under water, still damp but amazingly the foundation did not budge

Completely dry after running under water. You can still see the NC20 on my hand, there was no transfer and none of the foundation came off. Definitely Pro Longwear

As you can see from the experiment the foundation did not budge even after running it under water. And the best part of it all, this foundation is sooo lightweight on the skin and does not feel heavy at all! The coverage though is medium coverage, but this is buildable so if you want full coverage it can also be achieved! :) So here's my verdict:

Likes:
- Lightweight!
- Buildable Coverage
- I don't oil as much
- LONGWEARING
- Part of MAC's Permanent Line so yayyy!
- Affordable at only $30usd
- Perfect for outdoor shoots and long shoots

Dislikes:
- Don't know when this will be available in Manila and how much in PHP
- I wish it had a tad bit more coverage in one layer instead of building for more coverage.

So overall I will have to give MAC Pro Longwear Foundation two thumbs up!! I made the right decision in choosing this foundation for my kit! Yayy! :)

Lastly, here's a picture of me in MAC Pro Longwear foundation 13 long hours after I applied this foundation. I still had it on! :)

Toodles! :)

CARGO Blu Ray High Definition Make-Up

2010-10-17T19:31:00.005+08:00

HD makeup has got to be one of the things I consider top on my list when scouting for make-up. As a make up artist, I see to it that the products that I use is friendly to all kinds of lights since, as we all know, a lot of cosmetics have titanium dioxide in them, the ingredient that causes the "whitish" cast on camera flashes. That is a no-no for me, that's why I love HD makeup because I know it is made for requirements like film, photography and stage.

So when I came about a make up brand called CARGO, their HD products nonetheless caught my eye. And since I'm a foundation/Powder addict, I couldn't wait to try the CARGO Blu Ray High Definition Powder and got my hands on one right away when I visited ULTA in Tanforan Mall San Bruno.

CARGO HD Powder in 30
Price: $30

Back of the Product

I have had this product for about 1 month now and I have got to say that I LOVE IT SO MUCH! I had promised myself that I would review the product weeks ago, but things happen and next thing I know I have already Hit Pan!

That is how much I love this product. I use it practically everyday! It is crazy pigmented and offers awesome coverage for the face yet feels lie translucent powder. Did I say it was pigmented? Check it out.

One swatch picks up so much product thus you have to be careful otherwise a tendency of product being wasted can occur.

Initially swatched back of hand

Spread into skin using fingers, see how it vanishes? It's so light on skin it's amazing!

Overall, CARGO Blu Ray High Definition Powder is HG quality. The only quirk I have with it is because it is so pigmented you have to be careful in picking up the product otherwise a lot will go to waste. It is also pretty hefty at $30 a piece, but it's worth it when you get to try it. :) I would definitely purchase this product again, and it seems that I need one sooner than I think. :) And yet again, HD hasn't failed me. :)

Toodles! :)

Remember how I said it was pigmented? Well check out how much product my finger still had after swatching at the back of my hand and spreading.

Nice! :)

New Discovery: TWO COSMETICS Gel Liner

2010-10-14T18:26:00.003+08:00

This, I would have to give credit to my boyfriend. He was the one who discovered TWO COSMETICS hehe. While I was in the bay area, I got a call from my boyfriend asking me if I wanted anything from Two Cosmetics, specifically their Gel liners. He told me the colors they had available and he got me 2 colors.

Two Cosmetics Gel Liner in

Royalty and Passion

The color Royalty is a a deep turquoise with slight shimmers shade while Passion is a matte purple shade. Definitely something I do not have yet in my make up kit.

Royalty and Passion swatched side by side under natural lighting

The gel liners are really creamy and easy to apply. Once they have been applied I noticed that they are also smudge proof, these babies don't budge!! :) Another thing that I like about them is how pigmented they are and how rich they are to their true color. What you see in the packaging is the color you will see once swatched. What I like about gel liners especially colored ones are that they not only serve as your regular eye liners, they can also act as eye shadow and or eye shadow primer to get more vibrant looking and long lasting eye shadows. :) You are getting a multipurpose product in one little jar! :)

When I searched online for TWO COSMETICS website, I saw that they have a couple of products worth looking at. I'm glad my boyfriend got me the gel liners because I would have gotten them my self had I bumped into this kiosk and discovered it first. The Gel liners were bought at The Great Mall in San Jose for only $12.50 each! If you are nowhere near The Great Mall, you can purchase this in their online store and check out their other stuff too!

http://twocosmetics.com

What new product have you discovered lately? Cheers to new discoveries! :)

Toodles! :)

Kryolan Aquacolor Day Glow Effects

2010-10-11T15:15:00.005+08:00

Being practical is hard to do when you have an obsession with make up. When i enter a store filled with make up, my eyes dazzle and I just don't know where to start, sort of like a little girl entering a candy store. Over time, I have learned that the key to less impulsiveness is research. Before buying a product of investment, I now do my research, do a lot of reading reviews and watching videos to see what people have to say and if its really what I need. This product was no different, I just had to see it and how it works. So when I had a recent trip to the Kryolan headquarters in San Fransisco, one of my purchases in Kryolan was out of curiosity of the product. When I was researching about Kryolan and the Products they offered, a certain palette seemed to be the rave of a lot of International Youtube sensations, this is the Kryolan Aquacolor Day Glow Effects.

The Aquacolor day Glow effects palette caught my eye at the store because of its bright neon colors. I asked for assistance from the Kryolan SA and he happily demonstrated how the colors looked. My main query was how it looked under the UV light to see if it really does glow under UV light. So he swatched the product on his hand, and put his hand under UV light and I was sold. Such pretty colors glowing under black light. :)

Thus, colors from this palette are called:

UV Purple
UV Pink
UV Yellow

UV Green
UV Orange
UV Blue

Initial texture of the product is like cream but dried up, the SA explained to me that the palette and the UV colors is activated by water. You can either pick up the product by using a wet sponge or by dipping a brush (better results if brush is synthetic) in water, tapping off excess water and swiping straight on product.

What it looks like initially swatched, dry and hard to spread

What the product looks like when using a wet synthetic brush, directly applied to skin.
Results are: vibrant pigmented colors. Easy to apply and blend, dries like eyeshadow.
This will glow under black light, i just can't demonstrate that as of now. :)

Overall, Aquacolor Day Glow Effects UV palette is very versatile. When applied on skin with wet application, it dries out just like eye shadow. It can also be applied and used for the whole body. Here's my verdict:

Likes:
- Bright Bright colors, will come in handy for those Avant Garde Looks!
- Colors glow under UV light awesome for those one of a kind requirements too and HALLOWEEN!
- Colors can still be used even without UV light and are still NEON looking.
- Cheap for only about $30usd (php 1,350) tax included for 6 colors that will last a long time.
- Packaging is handy

Dislikes:
- Expensive when bought outside of the US (Kryolan in the Philippines are usually double or more of the retail price)
- Only available online in most areas or only available in specialty make up stores

So will I repurchase: Yes if ever I run out, but I doubt i'll run out of it soon hehe

This palette would be awesome for Halloween, now I just need to look for an Inspiration! :)

Toodles! :)

I'm back with the Loot!

2010-10-07T15:08:00.007+08:00

Hi girls, it has been so ling since I last blogged. The reason being is that I spent the last month in San Fransisco and Vancouver enjoying my vacation with my wonderful boyfriend. At the same time, I practically spent all my money on make up. For make up junkies and make up artists alike, an opportunity to buy make up in the States means time to HOARD! And Hoard i did! Hehe I just sorted out my stuff here at home to see how much damage exactly i made.

As much as I want to make an in depth review on the products that I purchased, I really don't know where to start, I'm gonna need a little help so let me know which ones you want reviews on first. :)

Check HERE to see my Kryolan Loot and Here to see the first purchases I made in the trip, and as for the rest, here they are. :)

Loot from Holly North Beauty Supply Store in Vancouver

Beauty So clean make up sanitizer
Make Up pointed tips
Stippling Sponge
Steel Palette
Graftobian Warm 2 Palette

Camera Ready Cosmetics loot
Shinto 1 and 3
Graftobian Pro Powder Foundation in Healthy Tan
Graftobian Pro powder Foundation in Buttercream

MAC purchased from CCO in Gilroy
189 Brush
192 Brush
Fast Response eye cream
Mineralized Skinfinish Duo Medium
Mineralized skinfinish Duo Dark
Vibrant Grape e/s
Dreammaker e/s
Glamour check e/s

MAC loot from MAC Pro in Vancouver
15 pro palette
263 Brush
Pro Longwear Foundation in NC 20
Pro Longwear Foundation in NC 40
Pro Longwear Foundation in NC 45
Pro Longwear Lipstick in Unlimited
Pro Longwear Lipstick in Perpetual Flame
Oil Control Lotion
Moisture Rich Lotion
Girlboy Browset
Fluidline in Blacktrack
Setting Powder in Soft Yellow
Aqua e/s
Sassy Green e/s
Passion e/s
Orange e/s
Dazzlelight e/s

Drugstore loot
Revlon Matte Lipstick in Really Red
Revlon Matte Lipstick in Wine Not
Covergirl Mascara
Covergirl Black eye liner
Covergirl Lipstain in 400
Covergirl Lipstain in 425
TWO Cosmetics gel liner in royalty (Turqoize)
TWO Cosmetics gel liner in passion (Purple)

And another thing, while I was in the US, I won Crystal's of Makeup by Crystal's contest entry and got 3rd place! So perfect, she sent me the prizes through my US address. Thanks so much Crystal!!! :) I love them all! :)

Now that my vacation as come to an end I am all powered up and stocked up for work as a Make up artist. I will begin putting my new toys on a road test and will start sharing my thoughts on them. :) Do let me know and give me suggestions on which products in particular do you want me to review and i'll gladly find time and review them. :)

Toodles! :)

P.S The song I left my heart in San Fransisco applies for me now since I really love that place now and my BF is left there. :( I'll see you soon SFO!

My visit to Kryolan US Headquarters

2010-09-15T08:51:00.004+08:00

On a Sunny Monday in San Fransisco, my boyfriend decided (After my nagging hehe) he'd take me to Kryolan to go to their showroom. The experience was wonderful, the people there were so helpful and there was this rush I felt knowing that Kryolan's US head quarters is where I visited. I guess I'm a makeup dork like that! haha Anyway without further a do, here are some pics and the things I came home with :)

My humble loot

Kryolan Fixer Spray
Dermacolor concealer wheel (I use as foundation)
Kryolan Aquacolor UV Day glow Palette
Kryolan Blusher Palette

Fixer Spray

Dermacolor Concealer Wheel

UV Palette

Blusher Palette

If you are in the Bay Area, a visit to the Kryolan show room is something I advise on doing if you are a makeup junkie. You will have so much fun trying and checking out all their make up. I sure had fun! :)

Toodles! :)

So much makeup so little time

2010-09-13T02:26:00.003+08:00

Hey girls, I've been having the most awesome time here and going crazy with all the make up stores left and right. Let me just share with you some of the things that I have purchased in the past couple of days. :)

Me in CVS checkin out the makeup hehe

Nail polish only $1.99 each hehe

My new favorite Maybelline Lipstains :)

L'oreal Telescopic Mascara

A few sephora liners

Freebie from sephora as a Beauty Insider

Duo lash adhesive in black

Tata from SFO! :)

Toodles! :)

Off to the land of the free....and MAKEUP!

2010-09-08T17:02:00.002+08:00

A million apologies for not being able to update my blog recently. The reason being is that I have been working so much for the past week so that I won't miss work so much when I leave for the states tomorrow. For the past week, I have been busy working on make up for Magalogues, TV, Magazine beauty eds and a bunch of other gigs. I will be there for a month and I will surely be stocking up on make up goods and will be getting back on track in terms of blogging. :)

So my next post I will already be in the States and I can't wait to share with you my make up finds and goodies. :)

Toodles! :)

Let's talk about hair: Sunsilk Co-Creations

2010-09-03T10:30:00.003+08:00

Sunsilk and world-renowned hair specialists have launched the most creative endeavor ever in hair care - The new Sunsilk Co-Creations campaign. This campaign brings together international experts in collaboration with Sunsilk to come up with Sunsilk's best ever formula.

If you haven't yet seen the powerhouse commercials of this campaign, you will see there the International experts talking about their co-creations with Sunsilk. This has got to be the first campaign and hair care product that I have seen to collaborate with experts!

Here is The Best Ever Sunsilk Co-Creations line:

Let's get to know the experts and the lines they have co-created with Sunsilk. :)

Yuko Yamashita

SMOOTH EXPERT

Yuko Yamashita, a hair stylist, salon owner, and entrepreneur wanted to make people's lives easier when it came to hair care. As a young Japanese stylist, Yuko met countless women who were unhappy with their hair. The most common complaint was unruly hair that had to be constantly styled every morning and the mere suggestion of rain would make it frizzy and uncontrollable. Yuko wanted her customers including many celebrities to have beautiful, straight and healthy hair without spending hours getting it that way, so she created Yuko Hair Straightening, which has been taking the world by storm for over 10 years.

SMOOTH AND MANAGEABLE

Enriched with Keratin Yogurt Nutri-Complex, it gently cleanses and coats hair strands to smoothen fluffy hair. Sunsilk teamed up with Yuko Yamashita from Japan, creator of YUKO Hair Straightening, turning hair from unruly to manageable, to co-create Sunsilk’s most advanced Smooth and Manageable formulation for extraordinarily smoother⁺⁺ hair that stays beautifully in place all day long.

SRP: P89.00/200mL bottle

Teddy Charles

SHAPES & LENGTH EXPERT

Teddy Charles has been creating fabulous looks since he was a teenager in France and has a world-class range of high profile partnerships. He has worked with photographers such as Mario Testino, Patrick Demarchelier, Glen Luchford, Mikael Jansson and Karl Lagerfield. Magazines such as French, Italian, American and Teen Vogue, i-D, V, Numero, and Vogue Nippon have all picked up on his inspirational range of work helping to raise his profile amongst the world’s fashionistas. His work combines a flare for contemporary femininity and glamour with an edgy bohemian sensibility. All these attributes have made him an obvious choice for brands as diverse as Calvin Klein and GAP. Teddy’s creations come to life on the catwalk and his hair styles have been seen at Luca and Luca, Marchesa, Rag & Bone and Sari Gueron shows. A-list celebrities have been equally quick to recognize his talents, as illustrated by his impressive clientele including Sarah Jessica Parker, Blake Lively and Hayden Panettiere.

STRONG AND LONG

Enriched with Active Fruitamin Complex, its rich moisture formula gently cleanses and refreshes your hair, while penetrating it and fortifying hair fibers so it becomes up to 10x stronger*+ and 3x smoother+ with boosted shine. Sunsilk teamed up with Paris-born Teddy Charles, creator of some of the world’s latest runway and premier fashion magazine looks, to co-create Sunsilk’s most advanced Strong & Long formulation for strong* and smoother hair.

SRP: P89.00/200mL bottle

STRAIGHT AND SWAY

Enriched with Amino Collagen Complex, it cleanses your straight hair and gently relaxes your hair bonds, providing softness and suppleness to give natural movement ++ to your artificially straightened hair. Sunsilk teamed up with Paris-born Teddy Charles, creator of the world’s latest runway and premier fashion magazine looks, to co-create Sunsilk’s most advanced Straight and Flowing formulation for ideally straighter hair full of natural movement.

SRP: P89.00/200mL bottle

Francesca Fusco, MD

HAIRFALL EXPERT

Francesca Fusco, MD is a world-leading expert in dermatology and scalp care. Dr. Fusco graduated from New York Medical College in 1985 and she has been practicing since 1989. Her approach is based on the philosophy that with early intervention, patients can avoid invasive treatments. Francesca urges people to recognise the delicate nature of scalp; as an extension of the skin on your face. Dr. Fusco is an expert dermatology resource for the television media community and has appeared on CNN, CBS News, and Inside Edition. Alongside TV, her medical advice appears regularly in magazines and newspapers such as NY Times, Elle, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Shape, InStyle, Allure, Glamour, The New York Times Sunday Magazine, Chicago Tribune and the New York Daily News. For her, a woman’s hair is her ‘crowning glory’, and is dedicated to giving every girl the best head start possible to getting glorious hair through care for the scalp.

ANTI-DANDRUFF

Enriched ZPT Citrus Complex, it thoroughly cleanses and refreshes while purifying your scalp to start elimination dandruff** from the first wash and protect the hair’s natural condition from dryness. Sunsilk teamed up with Dr. Francesca Fusco from NYC, world-class dermatologist and expert at understanding skin and scalp care, to co-create Sunsilk’s most advanced Anti-Dandruff formulation for a restored dandruff-free** scalp and beautiful hair.

SRP: P89.00/200mL bottle

Hairfall Solution

Enriched with Soya Vitamin Complex, it gently cleanses weakened, easily-broken hair, while reinforcing hair from roots to tips. Sunsilk teamed up with Dr. Francesca Fusco from NYC, world-class dermatologist and expert at understanding skin and scalp care, to co-create Sunsilk’s most advanced Hair Fall* Solution formulation for visibly less hair fall.

SRP: P89.00/200mL bottle

Tom Taw

DAMAGE EXPERT

Tom Taw is in an entrepreneurial hair stylist from London. His career began when, aged fifteen and working in his local salon, he realized that hairdressing was his calling, and has since learnt from some major hair figures, as well as high-profile Italian hairdressers. After a stint as Senior Creative Director at Aveda, Tom is no stranger to creating impressive and inspirational looks. He not only designs for fashion shows, but also speaks at educational seminars. He opened his Soho salon - ‘BOBSOHO’ – in 2007 where he concentrates on enhancing the natural beauty of hair. The work of his creative team regularly appears in the pages of fashion Bibles Vogue and Elle and he is fast becoming a hit with the stars.

SOFT AND SMOOTH

Enriched with Ceramide Macadamia Complex, it gently cleanses and conditions even the driest and roughest hair, while acting as a softening agent to rebalance hair condition. Sunsilk teamed up with Bobsoho Salon, founded by Thomas Taw, famous for resuscitating dry hair, to co-create Sunsilk’s most advanced Soft&Smooth formulation for hair that is silky soft to the touch.

SRP: P89.00/200mL bottle

DAMAGE REPAIR

Enriched with Olive Serum Nutri Complex, it gently cleanses and gives care to the most damaged hair, while reconstructing beneath the hair surface and filling damaged cracks deep inside – layer by layer, strand by strand. Sunsilk teamed up with Bobsoho Salon of London, founded by Thomas Taw, famous for resuscitating damaged hair, to co-create Sunsilk’s most advanced Damage Repair formulation to give back extreme smoothness and health to your damaged hair.

SRP: P89.00/200mL bottle

I really believe that you hair really is your crowning glory. The way it looks, the way that you can and the way that it is styled can make or break your overall style. No matter how short, long, straight or curly your hair is, the important thing is, is that your hair is healthy. Let Sunsilk save you bucks, instead of consulting your hair stylist and spending thousands in your regular salon visits, you can use Sunsilk co-creations. Your hair experiences expert touch, because the world's best expert helped make it. :) You really get an expert in a bottle. :)

My most favorite out of all the Sunsilk Co-Creations line has to be the anti-dndruff since my hair recently frequents dandruff and the Smooth and Manageable. I use the Smooth and Manageable when I feel my hair needs pampering. :) How about you guys? Have you tried this new line of Sunsilk? How did you like it and which is your favorite? :)

Toodles! :)

New Discovery: Alcogel Aromatherapy Hand Sanitizer from Bench

2010-09-02T19:53:00.003+08:00

As I was buying some things in the mall today I noticed this small bottle in Bench. At first I thought it was a body spray as it was nicely packed in a spray bottle and I initially read the word 'aromatherapy' on it. I sprayed it on my hand and initially fell in love with the soft smell. The I took a double look and saw that it was a Hand Sanitizer.

Bench Alcogel Aromatherapy Hand Sanitizer in Jasmine Blossom

Antibacterial Kills 99.9% of germs with Chamomile extract as anti-irritant and moisturizer

I really like how its small and handy. It also fits perfectly in my bag and inside my make up kit. Another thing that this is perfect for is for sanitizing my hands before I put make up on clients. Instead of using alcohol, I can use this and it has a nice soft scent too. :)

The best part of it all, its consistency is just like water and there is no sticky feeling I usually get when I use the alcogel.

This really is an awesome find for only PHP36!!!!!! I am so gonna hoard on this next time. :) They also have 2 more varants but this scent is the one that got me hooked. :)

Toodles! :)

Great finds at Apothica.com + Giveaway

2010-09-01T09:00:00.000+08:00

Hey girls, I am so excited to share with you all a site that I have recently discovered. This site is like your one stop shop from bath & body needs, Skincare, haircare, Candles, Laundry and my most favorite part MAKEUP! This site is WWW.APOTHICA.COM :)

I think it's pretty obvious that I lovveeeee cosmetics, so when I checked out apothica.com' wide array of makeup brands available, my heart started palpitating! They have makeup brands ranging from Stilla, Smashbox, NARS, BECCA, Napoleon Perdis, Paul & Joe, Japonesque, Cargo and sooooo muuchhh more!

Amongst all the goodies you will find in the Makeup section in Apothica.com something i really look forward to trying and purchasing is CARGO's Blu Ray Pressed powder. I have heard so much about this product and they have all been raves. And because of it's HD qualities, this will be perfect for my kit, no more cakiness! :)

Apothica.com has so much to offer you definitely your one stop shop! :)

Now getting on to the good part, www.cabyness.blogspot.com , together with www.apothica.com is bringing to you a one of a kind contest giveaway. This gives 1 (one) lucky winner a chance to win a $25 gift voucher to use on any items in Apothica.com (and their sister sites SkincareRx.com and Skin Botanica.com - they all share one shopping cart) !!! How cool is that? :)

All you have to do is follow the instructions:

1. Blog about this giveaway and indicate which product in the www.apothica.com website do you look forward to in trying. Blog Contest title should be: Apothica.com's Giveaway! Use the link to Apothica's site in your post. (1 Point)

2. Follow me on twitter (@cabyness) and Apothica.com (@skincarerx1) and tweet about the giveaway with a link to this blog and mentioning @skincarerx1 in the tweet. (1 Point)

3. Join Apothica's newsletter by leaving your email address and signing up at the bottom of the page of www.apothica.com

4. Leave a comment below with a link to your blog post about this contest including your Name and Email Address and twitter handle.

Simple yes? :)

The contest will run from September 1-14 and is open Internationally! :)

I will go through all entries and will not accept people who just joins contests and not blog, you have to be a real blogger. :)

I really look forward to your entries and see what you guys are excited about in trying with Apothica.com's wide array of products!! :)

Goodluck guys Get those entries in!!! :)

Toodles! :)

Revlon Colorstay Foundation with Softflex in Toast

2010-08-25T23:01:00.003+08:00

I have read nothing but great reviews for Revlon Colorstay Foundation. Most beauty bloggers and You Tube gurus like to compare this to MAC Studio Fix Fluid minus the occasional breakouts and the expensive price tag. So who won't want to try this foundation right? Right. Hehe So I did, I got my sister to get this for me in Singapore since here in Manila, their darkest shade available is so light that people with skin tones NC30 and up, won't even be able to use it. So anyway, I decided to get the Shade Toast. :)

The foundation comes in 1 fluid o.z full size in a twist open cap and a glass bottle. This is the same size as other full size foundations out in the market, although this product would be so much better if it had a pump, since tendency is to waste more product.

The consistency of the product feels thick, but once blended becomes very lightweight. This is a medium-full coverage and is buildable, even though you keep building and packing on the foundation, it still manages to feel light on skin. :)

Initial swatch of Toast at the back of my hand

Fully blended at the back of my hand

The shade Toast looks perfect for my skin tone since it disappears right away. But what I didn't anticipate was that, since I got the Combination/Oily variant for my acidic face. Once the foundation oxidizes it becomes 1 shade darker. So I should've gotten a shade that was lighter than this. But otherwise, I am very happy with the finish the foundation gives, it's light and silky.

I will probably just get one of the lightest shades of this foundation so I can just do my own mixing to mix and match clients too. :)

The only thing I don't like about this is how the shades in MANILA ARE SO LIMITED.

Btw, in 2 weeks I will be leaving for the States for a vacation. I will be hoarding on make up like crazy I'm sooo excited. So more reviews and blog posts then! :)

Toodles! :)

NOTD - Orly miniature Collection CHA CHA CHA

2010-08-24T16:46:00.003+08:00

Hey Girls, sharing with you my NOTD using ORLY's Miniature collection in CHA CHA CHA. This actually came in a gift pack from the Nailaholics bloggers Spa party. :)

Here it is:

I really love the bright orange shimmery color. :) Perks up my mood. :)

On another note, Congratulations to the Philippines Venus Raj for placing 4th Runner Up in the Ms Universe Pageant 2010. So proud of you! Thank you for uplifting and bringing the Filipinos together amidst the tragedy that happened yesterday of the hostage taking. God Bless you and the Philippines. :)

Toodles! :)

On cloud 9 at Nailaholics Bloggers Treat

2010-08-22T18:58:00.007+08:00

I received an exciting invitation from Bea about a Bloggers Spa Party at Nailaholics. The theme was Greece. If you know me, I love everything Greece and Greek, so this invitation received an RSVP from me right away. :) The spa party was held at the Nailaholics branch in MOA. When I got there was cheerfully greeted by Bea and the wonderful people of ORLY from Sprint Asia the beautoful girls who sponsored the event. :) I was immediately offered some greek snacks which I happily chowed down and was told to sit down and relax. :) Next Bea handed me their menu for me to choose any service to try. :)

After going through the menu, I couldn't help but get the Cloud 9 Manicure, Pedicure, foot spa with seaweed wrap. Sounded so inviting! :) Here ill just let the pictures do the talking. :)

Getting Started all the wonderful ORLY Nail Polishes to choose from

Hands and feet being soaked

No to dead skin! hehe

Now Filing my nails

Foot and Leg Scrub in a soothing lemongrass smell. :)

More smoothening of my feet hehe

Buffing nails before nail polish

Now here comes the sea weed wrap, first she applies a sort of like Mask type on all of my legs, wraps it in Cling Wrap then puts a warm cloth over. It feels sooo good I wish I can get it every night haha

While the wrap was on my legs for about 15 minutes, I was getting my nail polish for my fingernails. :)

Then the wrap comes off :)

I even get a foot massage! This really is cloud 9!!!

After this I got nail polish from Orly too on my toes. :)

MOA Branch

Bloggers getting pampered :)

The cloud 9 treatment really makes you feel like you are on cloud 9. :) I super enjoyed my pampering sessions at nailaholics. :) What i really like about nailaholics is that it is located everywhere! They have branches in practically all areas in metro manila! Hehe

Nail-a-holics Nail Salon & Spa is located in major malls in Metro Manila and Luzon -

SM Mall Of Asia, SM Megamall, SM Bacoor, SM Sta.Rosa, SM Muntinlupa, SM Sucat, SM Las Pinas, SM Tarlac, Robinsons Metro East, The Eastwood Excelsior, Cash & Carry Makati, Marquee Mall Angeles Pampanga. Soon to open –SM San Pablo, SM Calamba, SM Pampanga, SM Clark, SM Taytay, Robinsons Galleria. Visit our website for more details, www.nailaholics.com. Also find us on Facebook (Nailaholics Nail Salon and Spa) and Twitter (nailaholicslove).

Thank you so much Bea from Nailaholics and to the sponsors from ORLY. I really had a wonderful time being pampered, I am sure to come back to Nailaholics because it is so affordable to be so pampered, The staff is so so so friendly and their locations are so convenient because they have so many branches! :) I am sure to go back and try more. :)

Toodles! :)

Flawless Acne Astringent

2010-08-17T23:05:00.003+08:00

For the past 3 weeks, i have been using Flawless Face and Body Clinic's Acne Astringent. I was recommended this product by the wonderful staff of Flawless BF President's Avenue Branch. I needed an astringent since i ran out of my regular toner. During that time, I had a couple of breakouts due to my hormones and stress hence the recommendation. I didn't mind too since my face is occasionally oily and I once had a case of bad acne.

At first I was worried about the astringent drying out my skin since acne astringents are known to dry out the pimples. But eventually as I was using the product daily, I noticed that the astringent felt very light. There was no sting at all, and my face felt so clean after every tone. The best part was, it wasn't drying to my skin.

The selling point for me about this product is that it did dry up my acne during that time and since then I've had no acne breakouts. I like how it says "Helps prevent the formation of pimples" because I feel it really does that. :)

This astringent is available in all Flawless Clinics for PHP300+ (sorry I forgot the exact amount). I've been using this for about 3 weeks and I can say I'm pretty happy with it. :)

Toodles! :)

Rexona Naturals Let your skin breathe

2010-08-13T20:51:00.003+08:00

If there's one thing that Metro Manila lacks, its the abundance of parks with lush greens. These are just often seen in exclusive villages and almost province areas. But for the rest of Metro Manila, we are swarmed with pollution. Don't you just wish that every morning when we wake up, we wake up to the smell of fresh air, so relaxing Nature is truly good for you.

Now, Rexona has a new product that lets you extend the nurturing benefits of nature to your skin.

How amazing is this, that Rexona Naturals Antiperspirant combines the best of its antiperspirant science with natural ingredients, so your delicate underarm skin gets nourished and revitalized even as it stays dry for 24 hours straight. Talk about the best of both worlds. :)

The refreshing formulation from rexona is called bioprotection, it has sunflower seed oil, a natural ingredient that keeps skin healthy and vibrant by feeding it vitamin E and omega 6 fatty acids. Some of the other antiperspirant deodorants out there have harmful chemicals that may end up damaging the sensitive skin of your underarm instead of protecting it. Choosing deodorants with Natural ingredients like Rexona is the only way you can have 24 hour protection while avoiding damage to your underarms. The Natural ingredients really let your skin breathe. :)

To celebrate this break through from Rexona, together with Facebook has launched an earth-loving facebook application that allows users to grow real plants straight from their computer. These plants can be watered, fertilized, you can even play music to then, trim off dead leaves, remove caterpillars and release butterflies. All you need to do is click on the corresponding buttons and a gardener will execute the commands as viewed through live streaming videos.

Click on image to view application

Definitely something you should check out on facebook. :)

Toodles! :)

Pond's Pure White Deep Cleansing Facial Foam wih Activated Carbon +B3

2010-08-12T16:51:00.003+08:00

I am a guilty perfect target for advertisements. Whenever there is something new I see on commercials, especially shampoo and skin care, I get excited and try them ASAP. This Pond's Facial wash was no different. What first attracted me was its Black packaging. Initially I thought of how sleek and classic it looked in black with pink accents. It was beautiful, I needed to have it. Haha Yes, I'm pathetic, but when I watched the commercial again, I knew why I needed it even more, This Pond's Facial wash has Activated Carbon +Vitamin B3.

New Pond's Pure White Facial Foam is formulated with Activated Carbon. The Activated Carbon is known to easily absorb and lift away the dirt and impurities from skin surface and deep within pores. Cleanses your face thoroughly to reveal your natural pure white looking skin.

After reading this description from the packaging, I picked it up right away. Since my lifestyle allows me to wear make up all the time, taking it off can be a thorough job. The steps are usually as follows, Make Up remover, Facial wash, Toning then moisturizing. Usually when I tone, I still see and remove some dirt from my face (amidst the fact that i already removed make up with a remover and washed my face with facial wash). So the activated Carbon was just perfect to help me remove more dirt from my face. :)

The color of the facial foam is like a pearly gray color. :) It would've been cool to be pure black eh? :)

Anyway I just started using this product, and i'll see if this will work for me. From the first wash though, it gave me a clean feeling but not too tight like all moisture was stripped off. :)

Have you guys tried this product? Let me know what you think. :)

Toodles! :)

Mini Blog Sale

2010-08-10T08:00:00.000+08:00

Hey girls, I'm letting go of some make up that I don't use for myself and my kit. :)

If you girls like any products I'm selling, please email me at:

carla.avancena@gmail.com (I have email on my blackberry so I can check there faster)

Mode of Payment will only be through BPI SAVINGS for now

Shipping Within Metro Manila is PHP50 through XEND, for outside Metro Manila courier computation will be applied. :)

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Foundation NC44 - PHP800 (85% Full)

Covergirl Tru Blend Whipped Foundation in 445 Warm Beige - PHP300 (90% Full)

Covergirl & Olay Simply Ageless Concealer in 205 - PHP200 (swatched once) Covergirl & Olay Simply Ageless Concealer in 210 - PHP250 (Brand New)

Or Buy Both for PHP400

Shiseido The Makeup Dual Balancing Foundation in 15ml bottle
Shades: B80 and B40

Both for only PHP250

Maybeline Expert Wear Blush in Dusty Rose - PHP300 (Brand New)

Fashion 21 Eye Brow Powder - PHP50 (used once)

Toodles! :)

Favorite Make-Up Remover: Lancome Bi-Facil

2010-08-09T18:10:00.007+08:00

We all love creating those dramatic eye looks with the different products we use. But at the end of a fun night, taking the eye make up off can be such a pain, and we must take it off so our sensitive eyes won't get infected. I have gotten a stye once since I slept without properly taking off eye make up, so I made sure after that I thoroughly removed the make up especially for my eyes. Therefore, I would like to share with you all my favorite eye make up remover, it works fast and leaves your eyes make up free! :)

Lancome BI-FACIL eye makeup remover

All Skin types
This Double-phase liquid is fresh as water, yet removes even waterproof eye makeup. Gentle enough for sensitive eyes.

Ophthalmologist-tested

When shaken

Bi-Facil by Lancome has got to be my most favoriite eye make up remover ever. It works so swiftly, and true to its meaning its as fresh as water, no heavy oil feel at all. In just one swipe, it works already! :) To put this to test, I lined the back of my hand with 2 Styli Style Eye Liner Pencils. I chose Styli Style because this is waterproof and rub proof like crazy! Check here for my review on that. :)

Styli Style Semi permanent Pencil at the back of my hand

With a q-tip using only one side, I dipped this in the Bi-Facil to absorb the remover

Taking off the excess since I dipped it too long, you only need a little promise. :)

About to take off the liners in just one swipe

The first swipe, look at how clean and fast it is in removing the make up. :)

After the first swipe, look at the clean area so fast!

My 3rd swipe, take note, I didn't have to go back and swipe the already swiped areas. :)

All clean and all gone, check out the qtip carrying all the removed product. :)

Overall, I don't think I need to stress more on how much I really like this product because the pictures really do all the talking. This product is so convenient and can be used with a cotton square for instant eye make up removal and/or with a q-tip for smaller and harder to reach areas like eye liner.

The only thing that can set you back is the price, It's pretty pricey for a makeup remover but luckily I get mine in small travel sets that are usually included in Lancome Kits. :)

What are your favorite make up removers? :)

Toodles! :)

Abyss inspired EOTD

2010-08-05T20:06:00.005+08:00

Hey guys, I made an EOTD while watching TV and was inspired by the Blue hues under the sea. I therefore call this EOTD abyss. Here it is:

Gosh, there's some lash glue on the lash please don't mind that hehe

Here too! haha

What I used:

All color eye shadows from the 120 Palette :)
Prestige Total Intensity eye liner (Upper lashline, Lower and upper waterline)
L'Oreal HIP Color Chrome Eye liner (Blue on lower lash line)
ELF Powder Foundation in Beige (brow highlighter)
Youngblood Brow powder (brows)
MAC Falsies in lash 34

Anyway that's it, I just felt like playing around hehe. :)

Toodles! :)

Fashion 21 Aqualicious Lipstick in Little Mermaid

2010-08-03T20:41:00.003+08:00

A new lippie discovery from Fashion21. As I was going around the beauty section of the department stores, my habit is to check out make up that looks interesting and go on a swatching spree. While doing this, I came across an interesting lipstick line from local makeup brand Fashion 21. This lipstick line is called Aqualicious.

It comes in a really cute Aqua colored lipstick case with the word Aqualicious printed on the cover.

The color I got was a cute pink color called: Little Mermaid hehe cute eh? :)

Swatch of Little Mermaid

This Aqualicious lipstick line from Fashion 21 retails for only PHP150 each! The quality of the lipstick is close to that of NYX Round Lipsticks, definitely worth it. It's pigmented and glides on well on lips. :)

I definitely recommend Fashion 21 Aqualicious collection if you're looking for a wide range of colors for an affordable price. :)

Toodles! :)

MAC Morange Amplified Lipstick

2010-08-01T20:41:00.004+08:00

I had been searching high and low for the perfect orange lipstick. MAC Morange was always an option and actually my peg swatch for the orange. Although, I was really trying hard to find a cheaper alternative with the same color vibrancy as Morange gave. But to no avail, I couldn;t find any, and I couldn't settle for any less. I went by and forgot about the orange lipstick until I went to my favorite MAC store to Back 2 Mac some items. When Maike assisted me, she told me of the little options for Back 2 Mac, I happily responded that it was no problem since I wasn't really that choosy. Going through the stash, I saw that there was 1 MAC morange up for grabs. I immediately told Maike that I would get Morange. And finally I have it. :)

Check out that bright orange color! :)

The swatch

From the swatch it doesn't look as bright, but once it is applied on the lips, it really is a perfect orange. :) I really can't wait to execute some looks I am cooking up using orange lipstick for my upcoming shoots! Yayy! Finally :)

Toodles! :)

Power Peel experience from Flawless

2010-07-30T10:15:00.002+08:00

To have bright and radiant skin, being Flawless is key. We go through our own measures in taking care of our skin yet sometimes it is not enough. There are a lot of factors that causes our skin to break out, have uneven skin and lots more. Some of these factors are beyond our control such as environmental pollution and stress from work. Although there may be factors that we cannot control, we on the other hand can do our part by trying to live a healthier life and having a good skincare regimen. Part of the skincare regimen can and should include regular visits to a face and body clinic for cleaning and clearing those unwanted impacted dirt from our face and to get a little more.

During my college years, I had a bad case of acne that covered my entire face. The worst part is when acne subsided, I was left with dark scars and marks that were just an eye sore. To help clear my skin, I went through my regular facial cleaning and acne treatment, and once my acne was cleared I got myself a chemical peel. The whole process of the peel was dealt with discipline since I really peeled like crazy, had a bunch of derma products to use at specific times of the day for what lasted almost a month of peeling. All this and I couldn't go out under the sun. The result was though Flawless even blemish free and radiant skin. Throughout the years that followed I wanted to get another chemical peel but because of the attention needed and the time for all the meds, my time couldn't afford the high maintenance.

But that's all changed now because if you have no time for the high maintenance Chemical Peels demand, Flawless has something to offer; POWER PEEL. The POWER PEEL from Flawless is just what is best for me. It's what I'm looking for and need: Peeling, but does not demand the time and the maintenance after the visit to the clinic: product routines to follow for at least 2-4 weeks. Interesting eh? This is perfect for people always on the go like me. :)

In my recent visit to Flawless, I decided to avail of their Power Peel as this best suited what I needed. The procedure starts of with your regular facial (read about it here) and right after the pricking, the actual Power Peel is done.

Me right after pricking, just before undergoing the Power Peel

The Power Peel is conducted using a special machine that is used with a hand held device which is pressed and rubbed onto the skin. This hand held device emits crystals that help in removing dead skin cells and also is the one that aids the peeling.

The Machine Used

Hand held device

The hand held device also acts as a vacuum hence during the facial, there was no need to vacuum the dirt prior to pricking. Here's me during the Power Peel.

Allison my wonderful attendant started around my forehead area and moved her way down my face. Notice in this picture how little the crystals are at this time and only at my forehead area.

Power Peel through the cheek area, look at all those little crystals working to give you Flawless skin! :)

Allison concentrating around the nose area making sure that the peel is even throughout my face and also focusing on areas that need more attention. Look at all those crystals now all over my face! :)

Power Peel done now and Allison is brushing off the crystals using a big soft brush. Notice how from this photo alone, my cheek area is a little lighter and looks healthier from the light rosy-ness. :)

The Power Peel from Flawless is about 15-20 minutes. It is also painless, all you feel with the thousands of crystals rubbing on your face is kind of like having a very fine sand paper rubbing on your skin. Now that doesn't sound as bad as the actual feeling it is very tolerable and safe. Though it may seem that the crystals when rubbed all together may be scratchy for the skin, it absolutely is not because right after the treatment, my face didn't sting therefore there were no cuts. The thousands of crystals just work together taking off layers of dead skin to reveal your most youthful skin. :)

After the Power Peel a Multivitamins Serum is used as the last moisturiser. I super love this since the sudden shift in the feeling or having crystals scrub your face is refreshing when this mosturizer is put on your face. It's like the whip cream to your ice cream. The red bumps you see on my face is from the pricking of the facial and is not caused by the Power Peel. :)

Multivitamins Serum

The dirt out of my face from the pricking (ewww)

The Wonderful Flawless BF Branch where everyone was so friendly and attentive :) :)

Here's my bare face just right after the treatment:
Still bumpy and red from the pricking but aside from that my face felt smoother and fresh right after the Power Peel. :)

The Power Peel is really perfect for those who want to get peels but don't have to think about applying any medicines for the face after. You peel only then and there. No painful skin shedding! For only PHP2000 per session this is best to get at least every 3 weeks. If done continuously with regular facials, you are bound to get Flawless skin. :)

Flawless is really your one stop shop in skincare and making you more beautiful. I'd like to think of Flawless not just as a Face and Body Clinic but more as a partner in helping you achieve your healthier lifestyle. We all want to look beautiful, and remaining beautiful is inspiration enough to keep coming back to Flawless. With their affordable prices, Flawless really brings beauty withing everybody's reach. Anyone can be more beautiful! Let Flawless be your partner in that. :)

Out of all my recent visits to Flawless, what I love about them is the extra mile they go to really make you feel pampered. The hand and shoulder massages, the hand heat packs which I absolutely love and gentle care they have when holding your face. Even If I had experienced those the last I visited, I love getting surprised still with these pamper treats. :) This is their cherry on top, the little ways that make you feel more pampered and special. :)

Drop by the nearest Flawless branch to help you get started on your way to achieving Flawless skin. :)

For more information about Flawless, add them on Facebook Page:

http://www.facebook.com/FlawlessFaceandBody

Toodles! :)

MissKC027 contest entry for July

2010-07-29T18:59:00.002+08:00

Hey Girls, Kim of MissKC027.blogspot.com is having a wonderful contest for July and is giving away the following:

Prizes include:

MAC Stereo Rose MSF
MAC Jazzed Lipstick
MAC All Styled Up Lipstick
MAC On The Scene Cremesheen Glass

The rules are simple:

- need to be a follower

-comment below as many times as you want

- post your answers on your blog and put the photo of the prizes at the side of your blog. and title it as MissKC027 contest entry for July.

-winner will be chosen by me, and this contest will end July 31

-here are the questions:

1. What is make-up for you?

2. What is your makeup routine?

Simple right? Click HERE to join! :)

My answers to the contest questions:

1. What is make-up for you?
- Make-up are tools that is used to enhance ones natural features. It shouldn't conceal someone, it should bring out their beauty.

2. What is your makeup routine?
- My makeup routine after my cleanse, tone, moisturize is cream foundation, setting powder, contour and blush, eye shadow, eye liner and mascara. On days when I don't need that much coverage I skip the cream foundation and replace it with powder foundation.

Head on HERE to join the contest now! :)

Toodles! :)

Beauty Feature in CHALK Magazine August 2010 Issue

2010-07-27T22:31:00.005+08:00

Hi girls, if you know me personally Hyper would be one of the words you would probably use to describe me. Now I am more than Hyper and excitement than ever. Why? Because Chalk Magazine's 10th year anniversary issue (August 2010) is now out! I'm excited because this issue features moi yours truly and Maui in their Beauty pages. :)

Me and Maui did make up for 2 real girls who both go to school talking about how their beauty and fashion has evolved in the last 10 years. :) We really had fun during the shoot and now I'm super happy its out. :)

Here it is:

I did Lexi's (left) makeup while Maui did Honey's (right)

Lexi's page with little me in it hehe :)

Closer look

That's me! big cheeks how embarrassing haha

Here's Honey's page with Maui hehe :)

I had so much fun doing this and would like to express my gratitude for this wonderful opportunity. These things are what makes hard work really pay off. :) When I decided to pursue make up, it has been nothing but blessings. Thank you. :)

The wonderful shots were taken by Chad Tyler Meadows, Hair was by Jay Wee. :)

Super Duper thank you to Michelle Katigbak-Alejandro CHALK's Beauty Editor and RB Chanco my mentor. :)

This issue is in stands now so don't forget to grab a copy with gorgeous Kim Chiu on the cover. :)

Toodles! :)

FOTD mood :)

2010-07-26T23:07:00.005+08:00

To liven up my mood, I decided to play around with make up for no reason. It has been a while since I did this so yes it did make me happy. :) I decided to play around with purples for this FOTD but ended up adding some blues and black. Here it is. :)

I found out that taking a picture in front of my lighted train case is god send since the light that comes from the train case is amazing. The pictures I took did not need any flash whatsoever. So I can say I now know where to take vanity pics of myself hehe. :)

A closer look at the eye make up:

For the eyes instead of using a black liner for the lower waterline, to open up my eyes more I used white liner instead. :)

What I Used:

Face:
RCMA CP Foundation
Ben Nye Banana Poudre
Graftobian Pro Powder Foundation for setting and contour
Nichido Peachy Glow Blush

Eyes:
Estee Lauder Palette Eye Shadow for the Purple and Blue
MAC Love Lace
MAC Carbon
MAC Liquid Liner
Prestige total intensity liner for upper waterline
White Eye Liner
Ardell Brow Gel
Fanny Serrano Brow Powder
MAC Browset Girlboy
Max Factor False Lash Effect

Since I had so much fun taking vain pictures of myself in front of my lighted train case, here's one for the road. hehe

Toodles! :)

The rave about the MAC 109

2010-07-25T12:21:00.006+08:00

I have been contemplating for quite some time on purchasing this brush mainly because of its price. Out of all my brushes, this is only my second MAC brush. I couldn't bear thinking on spending a lot of money for a brush that a lot of brands also offer. But the MAC 109 proved to be different. From all the endless nights on watching youtube videos, watching reviews and sleepless nights (Yes, I get sleepless thinking about make up haha) I decided to give in. There is no other brand with a brush like this anywhere else just the real deal; MAC 109.

When I finally decided that I would spend for this brush, getting the brush was a whole different story. The 4 branches of MAC in Manila was out of stock. Everyone wanted it and there just isn't enough for everyone. Me hearing stories about how they just bought the last piece in the store were like stories of a miracle that just happened (LOL). Eveytime I took random trips to MAC they were as usual out of stock with the MAC 109. Mostly, it was a relief since it meant not having to spend PHP2000+++ on a brush then and there. Then one day, a friend told me she was selling a MAC 109 since she had an extra one unused and brand spankin new! And so without hesitation, i told her yes, definitely, oui, si, oo I will get it. And since we don't see each other often and the 2-3 times we did see each other she forgot the brush, Yesterday finally she brought it, and I finally got my hands on the MAC 109.

The brush itself looks distinctively MAC. But after analyzing the brush in the attempts in figuring out how and why it is raved about I saw that the ferrule and the brush is round unlike other brushes whose ferrule's have a pinch. Because of the roundness its giving the brush bristles its perfect spherical shape. A mini mini kabuki on a stick is how others would like to describe it.

The MAC 109 has many uses, from contouring, highlighting, powder to applying foundation. The versatility of this brush is one of the main reasons why it is a raved product, but amongst all its uses about 80% like for applying foundation. So excited me, when I got my MAC 109 I immediately put it to the test. What I used:

MAC Studio Sculpt in NC40
MAC 109 Brush
Mixing Palette

First, I put a pea sized amount of foundation on to the mixing palette, I used a mixing palette instead of the back of my hands since I needed a flat surface and so that no product is wasted and absorbs by my hand instead of my face.

When I deposited the product I made sure to lay it flat, sort of spreading it already. I did this so that When I stipple the brush on to the product it would pick up even amounts all over the brush.

Next I lightly stippled the MAC 109 on to the product.

This is what it looks like when the MAC 109 picked up the foundation. This is enough to apply all over the face, re apply when you need more coverage, but never apply more than that on the first application.

Here's my bare face, I have a couple of pimple marks and uneven areas on my face.

Then I used the MAC 109 to apply the MAC Studio Sculpt in a swirling motion to achieve flawless even coverage that isn't too thick and heavy. It's quick and simple to do too! :)

My Face with MAC Studio Sculpt applied with MAC 109 Brush, More even color but not fake looking.

Next with the MAC 109 brush still, I dabbed the brush on a little powder and buffed it lightly in a swirling motion to set the foundation.

My Face with Mac Studio Sculpt and Powder both applied with the MAC 109 Brush, even canvas but still very natural.

Overall, this brush is really worth every penny mostly because of its versatility. It definitely is worth raving and deserves a slot in my tool belt (that means I have to let one brush rest) since I know I would extensively use this. Yes, the brush does shed, but what brush doesn't right? even brushes aren't perfect haha and those hairs don't grow on the handles. But with proper care and cleaning, extensive shedding can be avoided.

The only con I can think about is the price, PHP2000++ is a lot of money for 1 brush, but If you do decide to get one, it really is worth it. :) And the other con I see is the availability, Manila has a scarcity of the MAC 109 brush. Hehe

Toodles! :)

First attempt at my own face chart = Fail!

2010-07-22T23:51:00.003+08:00

Okay, so i was bored and decided to make my own face chart. I thought to myself how hard could it be as a make up artist, putting it down on paper should be no different.

Well lets just say, I didn't have beginners luck for this one. Haha. Getting the colors or the paper was pretty hard and the blending was harder. Also, the colors look different on paper than on skin so uhhh, I failed on that part too. Not to mention the eye brows, couldn't get them to be the same. Hahaha Anyway, aside from all this, it was still pretty fun. Will definitely make more soon, but for this first time, I will consider it fail. Hehe

Haha I need to work on being neat, the paper is so dirty! haha

Lipstick when used is a light peach color, on paper its almost red!! haha

I hope my next face chart is way better than this. :)

Toodles! :)