US Makup Haul

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?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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!

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!

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! :)

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! :)