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my top 10 discoveries of 2010


I am more surprised that only about 30% is makeup-related. this are more of the products i have discovered just this year and ive loved so much that i cannot imagine how i've lasted for so long without it. for sure imma be using these thru 2011 and more years to come i hope. you mught be wondering why most of them are in sample/travel sizes, if i love 'em so much. rest assured that i have the full sized versions in my place in Manila, but as I am here in my Grandmother's house for the holidays, i have just brought/bought the travel bottles.

the numbers do not signify a particular order. imma just go along as i click through the next picture. 

1. L'Oreal Nutri-Gloss light Shampoo and conditioner + L'Oreal Elseve Nutri-Gloss Conditioning Spray
Before i had my Toni and Jackey's Haircut, my hair was just a long mess. it was almost a mermaid-lile length and it wasn't healthy anymore, not to mention it was extremely heavy and unmanageable, but i was always hesitant to cut it because if i give it a proper comb-thru it was still straight and shiny. then i got depressed and had a huge bulk of it cut. after i had the cut, i was at my local Mercury Drugstore when i saw them on stock and i've always wanted to try it so i grabbed a bottle of the shampoo and conditioner and gave it a try. i was so astonished by the results. it delivered on its promised goodness, and i just never had hair that good looking without so much effort or chemicals. seriously. i can even just let it dry without combing it, and just comb thru it with my fingers, and it never tangled! that's how soft my hair became. my only problem with this it that it's difficult as hell to find the conditioning spray nowadays. luckily tho, my local watsons still carries it so i'm good. this product is love love love!

2. Johnson's Naturaly White Daily Moisturizing Wash
I discovered this product when i ran out of my usual body wash and had to buy one. i just grabbed the first body wash i saw in the shelves and boy, was i glad i grabbed this little gem?! i dunno about the whitening properties, and honestly i dont really care cuz am not into whitening. it annoys me endlessly that most products here have whitening properties, or is marketed as one. but i like this particular body wash because it has fine granules that doubles as a milder-than-mild scrub, plus it smells so clean and fresh. that's gotta have top marks in my book! :D

3. Rexona Skin Light with Sunflower Oil.
For the longest time i have been a nivea deo user or a dove deo user, i kept on using their under-arm whitening variant as i am obsessed with a whiter under arm. i think using Secret from way back ruined my under arms for good, plus i am a big girl and as my derma told me before, pigmentation in some areas such as the under-arm, neck, and inner thigh is natural unless i lose the weight. i lost some of the weight before but not the pigmentation in my under-arm. since my adolescent years, i have been beyond obsessed with making my under-arms lighter and i've been using the nivea ones or the dove ones, the one with the pearl whitening properties and the extra whitening properties to no avail. i remember reading about this from one of the beauty blogs i subscribe to but i was still a bit skeptic. then i had to go climb a mountain and i was broke but i needed toiletries. so i grabbed the small version and the travel one pictured above. i placed the mini version in my toiletries bag and this one in my hand bag, just in case i perspire too much and need a quick fix. i was ever so surprised that i didnt need to re-apply it despite sweating like a pig, so to speak. i figured that if it is good enough for mountain climbing, then it is good enough for daily use. i have been using it ever since and even bought the spray bottle and i have been pleasantly surprised that my under-arms have become noticeably lighter. good job rexona! :D

4. Clinelle 3 step kit
i have been either a belomed product user (the one prescribed in the clinics), or a neutrogena or a celeteque user. i might deviate once in a while but i always go back to these three brands. i think they have proven their worth enough. but ever since i tried the clinelle one, i loooved it! and it has no adverse effect on my skin so it's all good! :D one thing that surprised me is despite the mild formula of the cleansing gel, my face felt really clean, plus this is the first time i've actually enjoyed using a toner, i dunno why. plus the moisturizer really gives off a subtle glow but i cannot pinpoint why. i need to get me the full sized versions once im back in manila to give it a proper trial. 

5. Garnier Light Complete Multi-Action Whitening Cream


I dunno what it does exactly, but i love this product. i dont use it everyday, but everytime i feel like my face is looking blah and dull and all that bad stuff (we all have those days right?) and i dont feel like going through the hassle of putting on make up, i just apply this for a quick pick-me-up and instantly i feel like i look a lot better!  it might be psychological in nature or whatever but i really like this product. it makes me feel as if the skin on my face is a little tighter and a lot, lot, lot less shiny. in fact i feel like my face is non-greasy yet glowy, if you know what i mean. i cannot really explain it, as i suspect it is a bit psychological but i love this product nonetheless. i always keep a small tube in my purse.


6.Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay + Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar
oh, i love this combo! ive been using it on and off for about 6 months now, at first once or twice a week but lately just about twice a month as it really purged my face. i no longer am that prone to pimples and it really sucks out my blackheads and white heads. i just love using this. i especially love the squeaky-clean feeling i get just after i use this. i have to buy my second jar soon as i am running out fast! i think my stock's only good enough for about 2 -3 sessions, tops! lol


(photo stolen off of google. i cannot figure out how to take a decent photo of this product and it drives me crazy!)
i loved this perfume so much i blogged about it here. 2 days after that post my bottle shattered to pieces. my room smelt of eternity for weeks on end and i felt so wretched. it was a new perfume! i loved it so much. good thing i had a spare bottle and i'm saving up for another spare bottle as i dont ever wanna run out of this product.

8. James Cooper Travel Brush Set + Fanny Serrano Eyelash Curler


okay, so i've long since discovered the fanny serrano eyelash curler. i've had mine as early as 2009, i think. but last April, i acquired the famed Shu Eumura one and i've found a renewed love for my Fanny Serrano one a i felt like the distinction is very minimal. plus ive been so afraid of losing my shu one that ive taken to carrying the fanny serrano one with me instead and just use the Shu one at home. lol.

i've recently just acquired the James Cooper Brush set, but it never left my bag ever since! i've been jetting off to one party after another this holiday season and i've taken to putting makeup inside the car. unless of course i airbrush myself first before leaving. but basically, while i drive, i put on make up. with the infernal traffic around the metro, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do right? i'm just so impressed wit this set as the bristles are all of good quality, and the collection of brushes have been well thought of, like you can do a really professional face makeup with it. i love that aside from the traditional paddle eye brush that usually comes in sets like this, James Cooper has thoughtfully included a crease brush and he didnt bother adding the usual "pampa-dami" or space-filler such as the useless sponge brush and the like. all 7 brushes are useful and handy. imma do a decent review SOON! :D


i've been so in love with this product that i cannot stop raving about it here. i'm happy to report that the love affair is far from being over, in fact i've bought myself a back up just so i wouldn't run out. i have to stress tho that this product works amazing if coupled with the Marionnaud Fluid Foundation brush i've mentioned here. i forgot to take a pic tho.. :/


10. Etude House Precious Mineral BB Cream
i've talked a bit about this product here. am not sure tho if imma do a decent separate review as i am not particular with brands as long as it is a bb cream. i was a bit late with the bb cream craze and i didnt have the time nor inclination to chase the expensive ones all over the internet. as far as bb creams i like them all. i never met a bb cream that i didnt like. but then again all of my bb creams are from etude house. what i like about them is that they are thicker than your average tinted moisturizer yet less heavy than a full-on foundation without sacrificing the coverage. loveet! :D i also love that this particular one is conveniently packaged, and i never had a problem with it not squirting product or anything like that as some of the common rants have been.

so there you have it, my top 10 discoveries of 2010. si wanted to post a best and worst products of 2010 as well but then again i feel like i would not be able to do much justice on it as i am blessed with a face that does not react much to whatever product is applied to it. so it wouldnt be as accurate as those with sensitive skin would have wanted. 

how about you guys, what are your best discoveries this past year? 

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Last Loot for 2010

this is the last (hopefully) makeup haul for the year. it is also an impulsive one. i was just at my local watsons here in the province (not even inside an actual mall, just a stand alone Watsons near the plaza) and i got the following:


1. James Cooper 7-piece Travel Brush Set - i love this brush set! it seems like James Cooper really placed a lot of thought into this one. you can actually do a full face with this set and make it look professionally done!
- large brush: for setting liquid foundation. i actually just apply my liquid foundation in the car with my fingers and use this brush to set my foundation with my pressed powder.
- blush brush
- eyeshadow paddle brush
- crease brush
- slanted eyeliner brush
- concealer brush: which i've miststaken for a lip brush at first, lol
- spoolie: extremely useful
it sucks tho that it doesnt come with a lip brush but i dont mind at all, i can easily get the ever bilena retractable one, with cap, for less than 50 bucks, i think. i also love that the brushroll comes with a pocket. i've stored my Fanny Serrano Eyelash curler in it, along with my cookiie-shaped mirror. in a pinch, i can even easily stick a wedge sponge in it. :D
2. Nichido eyebrow powder - prolly the best eyebrow kit i ever bought, second only to the highly expensive ModelCo one.
3. 13 shades of the Niichido Girls Night Out Liners - i've read somewhere that it is even better than the urban decay 24/7 liners. can't confirm tho cuz i dont own a single one of the 24/7 liners but it got me intrigued. i think i already have at least 4 shades, but since i'm buying the complete set, i might as well pick up the rest right? for 80 bucks a pop. it aint so bad. i love that all of these are waterline safe as well, so it's all good. will post swatches after the new year, and that's a promise! :D
Shades:
- *Bronze Glow
- 24K
- *Green Smokes
- Nice Gal
- *Pink Diamond
- *Thin Mints
- Blackest Black
- Deep Bloinde
- Cool Blue
- Metal Blue
- Vivid Turqiose
- Deep Plum
- Thin Mints
(* - the ones i already have from before)

there you have it, my impulse haul. i actually cheated a bit for including the james cooper brush set as ive bought it several days earlier, but IAG!

how was your christmases? i hope it was a lot better than mine. :D don't get me wrong, i spent it with my family and it was all good, but i am bloody missing somebody. i can't wait for May, when i get to see the brit again.. too long i know. thank god for skype and fb. lol. :P

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How I Survived the Boondocks (Bundok)

first things first:
pl.n. Slang

  1. Wild and dense brush; jungle.
  2. Rural country; the backwoods.
[From Tagalog bundok, mountain.]


Read more: http://www.answers.com/topic/boondocks#ixzz19U7VLqUY



I've always known that "boondocks" was from our very own tagalog word, "bundok" but just so everyone knows now. i think it was an over-zealous english teacher who taught me this little piece of trivia way back in gradeschool. lol


okay, so as you all know, i went "travolunteering" (i think it was actually Lois of wearesolesisters.blogspot.com who coined the word) in bohol,. and just like any self-respecting beauty blogger, i packed half a ton of beauty arsenal with me, even knowing i would barely use it in the mountains. while there tho, i wasnt able to use even 10% of what i brought because i don't wanna be that girl who wore a full face of cosmetics in the mountains. then again i wasnt that brave to show my bare face. my fellow volunteers were absolute dyosas in their bare faces that it'll leave even the hottest celebs with an insecurity complex. seriously! so what's a girl to do? fake it, of course!


i needed something that i can apply in less than a minute tho cuz travolunteering is one hectic job. you're up at 4-5am if you wanna get a decent shower because you have to share the one common shower room with 30 other ladies, not to mention fetching the water and carrying it yourself. not to put you off of volunteering or anything! lol.


needless to say, i wasnt able to use the pound and pound of cosmetics i packed and brought. so if you'll ever climb up a mountain for any reason, these are the only things you need. (trust me, i learned the hard way.)




1. Avon Lip and Cheek Tint - gives you the right amount of tint. i think i've already made a review of this before. i dunno if it's just me, but i couldnt tell the difference with the other variant from the same brand. while in the boondocks, it gave me a touch of color while still looking natural. and it lasts about half a day, which is okay. :D


2. Lip Balm - alba's unpetroleum jelly - prevented my lips from chapping and drying up while the SPF 18 gave me an added protection. it also left my lips soft and supple for kissing. (i only kissed babies in bohol tho, in case you, uhh, wondered. lol)


3. Etude House BB Cream - i don't care which variant or which brand, i just needed something with SPF, thicker than a tinted moisturizer, and less heavy than a full foundation. this seemed to answer all the requirements. i love that it is thick enough to hide my blemishes and conceal my under-eye circles, even a bit, and it evened out my discoloration. it lasts longer than your average tinted moisturizer too so win-win.


i also love the fact that all of these can be applied directly and using just my fingers for the added speed, and can be applied in less than 2 minutes, i think! lol.


(okay, imma be honest, i've no idea who took this photo but i found this in Mon G's album so i guess twas taken from his camera. lol. i know you could barely see my face but this is the only one i can find. peace! :D if it's any consolation tho, i can say that my face is not that even when bare!)

the number one non-vain and important thing tho was to slather yourself with SPF. i had the belo face sunblock with me with SPF 40 (only because i didnt have time to drop by the belo clinic and get a gel sunblock) and the beach hutt clear sunblock spray with 75++ SPF. thio i barely needed it because i was in the shade most of the time and it wasnt all that sunny when we went.


another tip: unless you wanna be eaten alive by all sorts of insects, ditch the perfume. i had my para'kito mosquito repellant with me but halfway thru the journey i lost it. good thing Ms. Nette C. and Daddy Jack gave me some of their anti-mosquito patches and mosquito repellants. :D


i hope you guys survive the boondocks too if you ever decide on climbing one. :D and if you already did, what make up did you wear? or are you like my fellow dyosa volunteers who were confident enough with their bare faces? do tell! :D

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Travolunteering


the reason i've been MIA for the longest time is because i was travelling to different parts of the country, and one i've been most preparing for is the medical and dental mission trek to Sierra Bullones, in Bohol organized by K.I.D.S. (Kabataan Inyong Dapat Suportahan). Lois was able to put into words the wonderful experience we had HERE.

 notice the peak in the background? yea, we climbed that! the highest peak in bohol!

it was a completely different experience for me. i was able to experience a lot of things that i wouldnt normally experience such as riding a chicken bus, sleeping on the floor of a classroom for 2 days, taking a bath in a makeshift bathroom, getting aboard a dam truck, and having the time of my life every single minute of it! :D i was able to meet a lot of people i wouldnt normally be able to meet, and i made a lot of friends. who can complain right?

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what i've been up to lately.

i haven't died or anything like that.. but ive been hospitalized for several times for different reasons and its made me realize  that I need a lifestyle change to beat the early grave.

i've been outdoors a lot too, traveling, and part of that traveling is, as my friend lois calls it, travolunteering. but more on that next time. i gotta admit tho that travelling is the main reason why i havent been online much. :D

Also, school work is finally catching up on me, i have never been this busy my entire life.

plus, i was able to stay at Sofitel for 5-days, complimentary breakfast at Spiral and all! courtesy of my aunt. the thing tho was, it coincided with the second week of  the semester and i've been trying to squeeze pool time, 3-hour breakfasts/newspaper sesh, and reading law books. it was no easy feat, i tell you. :D

aside from that, i finally bought the kindle 3 and nerd that i am, i've been more interested in reading books than beauty blogging. lol

back to regular beauty posts in a few. i have so much to tell you guys!! :D

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The Twin and the BFF

hey ladies,
just a quick update. My college twin sister, Nina, is now beauty blogging. apparently she has been beauty blogging for a while now and didn't even tell me, the sly one! ugh! lol. It was funny back in college cuz everyone at La Salle, even our closest friends, can't tell us apart sometimes! lol. Didn't help tho that we show up at school wearing the same style of clothing, just varying in colors, and we don't even talk about it! lol.

check her out and follow her! :D
http://thekikaygirl.blogspot.com/

oh, and I have been meaning to make a post about the BFF, Roxy. I think I've mentioned her in about 6-7 posts already. She has been beauty blogging since the summertime, if i'm not mistaken. We became close when i disturbed her one time (3-4years ago) while she was studying and we ended up chatting about lots of things because we found out that we're both southern belles, and it turned out that an ex-boyfriend of mine was a former classmate of hers in highschool. Aaaalso, it happens that our current flames that time were sort of BFFs too! maybe they attended the same "how to be an asshole" seminar or something! lol. i kid, seriously! Talk about small world, huh? LOL

Do check her out too and follow her! :D
http://shimmersandglosses.blogspot.com/

FYI: I only roll with hot bitches! lol :D

oh and i forgot to mention, does the fact that both the twin and the BFF (and the ex-bf)  are HS graduates of St. Benedict School (now San Beda Alabang) make me an honorary bene graduate too? LOL

talk to you ladies again soon!
xxoo
Ella

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Product Focus: Ever Bilena Mousse Concealer

Le Price:
180 pesos for 12 grams!


Le Experience:
The coverage is somewhat comparable to Mac's Studio Finish Concealer, sans the hefty price tag. Even the consistency is very similiar Mac's offering, which is weird cuz this product is launched as part of the mousse collection and unlike it's siblings in the blush, eyeshadow and foundation department, there's nothing mousse-like in its consistency. In fact, just like the Studio Finish concealer, you'd have to "melt" the product with your fingers to achieve easier blending. I usually apply it by dabbing a light layer with my fingers on the areas I want to conceal, then blend with the Marionnaud Fluid Foundation Brush. Coverage is medium but easily buildable to full coverage. to avoid caking, what i do is apply a thin layer, blend, apply another thin layer, blend and repeat until i get the desired coverage, then i set it with my Fanny Serrano Two-Way Cake. Usually it takes me three very thin layers to achieve my desired coverage, but that's just because i prefer a heavier coverage. Normally, two layers would suffice for my under eyes and dark spots but i just do three layers to be sure. oh, and before applying this under my eyes, i neutralize the dark circles by applying an even thinner layer of orange lipstick. Yep, you heard me. Orange Lipstick.

To Illustrate, I drew a very thick, very black line across my wrist. An area of my palm that wrinkles and moves alot.

I got the idea from reading Louise's Blog, she did a similar thing while reviewing a different concealer.

Above it is all bunched up and a little cakey. This is the concealer finish alone. I haven't set it yet with powder. Notice the very thick, very black line completely disappeared? Yup. that's how good it is. Granted I had to apply 6 thin layers but hey, my under-eye circles and dark spots are nowhere near as dark as this one! :P

Here it is, after setting it with the Fanny Serrano Two-Way Cake. See how well it blended (despite it being a tad darker) with my wrist coloring without bumps or caking? Note that my wrist is slightly lighter than my face.

Le Verdict:
I've had this product for about 3-4 months now and the main reason I've waited this long before making an actual review is because I wanted to thoroughly test the product. I simply cannot get over how great it worked considering its brand name and price! But it simply delivers!

The final test tho is staying power. I moved my wrist around a lot and this is three hours after application. I was completely not careful with my wrist.
It moved a little but with the proper primers and if the area you apply it with is not as mobile as the wrist, you should be fine. In my experience it stays for about 4-5 hours max.

what i like:
- inexpensive
- great coverage
- very pigmented.
- considering how much product you get, it'll last you a long time

what i don't:
- staying power's not so stellar
- unhygienic packaging - if only they sell these with little spatulas. *sigh*

over all verdict:
3.5 stars
took points off the crappy packaging and staying power. staying power is a big deal to me when it comes to concealers so despite my glowing review it didn't score very high.

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LOOT: Etude House Haul

I was kinda late in joining the Etude House bandwagon but their flagship store in Megamall is simply too far from me. Then Etude House opened in Festival Mall, which is perfect for me as it is a mere 10-15 minute drive from me, 7-if I'm driving. LOL. They also opened another branch at SM Manila which is also very convenient for me, as it is very near my Manila address. At first I was not crazy about them because i find the packaging a little too plasticky and cheap looking, and I feel that for an Asian brand, it is a tad too expensive. I still feel that their prices are a little expensive but now that i have been introduced to them, I think the prices are somewhat reasonable for the quality of the actual products.

i bought a bunch of stuff and got a bunch of freebies. :D

The stuff I bought:
1. Pink Travel Pouch
2. Secret Beam Highlighter #02
3. Petit Darling Eyes - Nude
4. Precious Mineral BB Cream Sheer Glowing Skin SPF30
5. Speedy Total Mineral Base SPF41
6. Pack Brush
7. Peach Skin Pact
8. Color Me Nude Lip Concealer

oh, and i got several freebies:
1. 3 Pink Pens - gave the other one to my cousin and the other one to my grandma
2. cute planner with some Korean actor dude

I actually made two separate trips. one last weekend where i got the makeup base and the pack brush. i got one freebie pen then. My purchase did not qualify for a free pen but they gave me one anyway. They also signed me up for the membership card that they give out for a single receipt worth PhP500.  Then i went back today to buy the rest. I officially just qualified for a free planner but they gave me two more free pens. I love my Etude House SAs!

It is also pretty convenient to avail of the membership card as it is a rebate-system type where you earn 2pts for every 100peso purchase. 2pts = 2 pesos. Not bad eh?

I want to hoard the Speedy Total Mineral Base! Seriously!

Next time I'm there imma get the FF:
1. Eyebrow Kit - the one with the wax
2. Several Brushes
3. The BB Balm that comes with a mini brush
4. the Petroleum Jelly-like product that claims to be a fix-all.
5. tear duct liner/powder not sure which one to get yet
6. a mattifier
7. the pink bottle with a pump dispenser

yep. i think i listed it all.

How about you? How did you find your Etude House Experience?

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Loot: Youngblood Artiste Palette & Nars Bridal Palette

Two new palettes came in for me this past month! :D





1. The Youngblood Artiste Palette in Romanticism
Eyes: Alabaster, Golden Beryl, Penny
Lips: Brilliance, Glorious, Mesmerize
Cheeks: Sherbet, Blossom

2. NARS Artist Palette: Bridal Palette
Eyes: Edie, Nepal, Night Fever
Cheeks: Albatross, Orgasm
Lips: Mitzi, Baby Doll, Sexual Healing, Roman Holiday

I haven't really played around with it. I just love looking at them. lol. They're both supposed to be Neutral/earth shades perfect for the prime or bridal Look, but i don't know. the Youngblood palette seems to be the one with the nude shades while the Nars palette seems to be more catered for nightouts.

I know I've been AWOL the past few weeks but I've been busy with school work, plus, lately, I'm more obsessed with the new Kindle3 than beauty blogging! Geekgirl showing thru! lol. :D

Reviews/comparisons coming soon! :D

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Product focus: Marionnaud Brushes

i love all my Marionnaud brushes, some maybe more than others, but i gotta say that everything is worth buying! i did not get the brow brush and comb, the tweezers, and the sponges coz i have no need of those anyway, especially the brow brush and comb which comes with the travel set anyway.

Le Price
ranges from about 70PhP - 299 PhP, depending on the brush you'd get. all worth the money, IMHO.

Le Experience:
i find myself reaching for these brushes more than my branded ones, and finally, i found good quality, yet inexpensive brushes. the handles are quite the right size too! not too long, yet long enough to be able to maneuver properly adn short enough for easy storage in your makeup bags. if you have all these brushes, it would render the travel set quite useless, but it's still good to have, as it is quite handy. it is nice to have in your bag or your emergency overnight case.

the powder brush in the travel set is exceptionally great, especially for blush application. good too for touch ups, to counteract the oilies!
the large powder brush is perfect for setting liquid/cream foundations. it is huge enough to cover huge spaces and soft enough to ensure sheer application. It is also perfect for bronzer application if you just want to warm up your look.
the fluid foundation brush blends liquid and cream foundation quite well. since i don't normally wear liquid/cream foundations, i use it to blend my concealer and it is perfect!
the Slanted blush brush dispenses color quite strongly, so you might want to use a light hand with your blush. i find tho that it is perfect for contouring and highlighting, as it comes on really strong. just remember to blend it really well with another brush (i.e. the large powder brush) to avoid harsh contour lines.
pointed eyeshadow brush is perfect for cutting the crease in your eyes and also for applying a light colored shadow in your tear ducts!
concealer brush - completely useless for under the eye as it is a bit scratchy and hurts the skin under my eyes, which are generally more sensitive than the other skin in the face.
eyeshadow brush - i find this weirdly with the same texture as the concealer brush, only, it's not scratchy at all. completely useless with powder shadows (too many fallouts!) but perfect for cream shadows!
the slanted liner brush is perfect for applying brow powder and lining the upper lid! i cannot stress how much i loveeeee this brush!

L-R: Travel Set, retractable brush, large powder brush, fluid foundation brush, slanted blush brush, pointed eyeshadow brush, concealer brush, eyeshadow brush, slanted eye line and spoolie brush


1. TRAVEL SET
a. powder brush - soft, great for touch ups, can double as a blush brush.
b. fluid foundation brush - small, better suited as a concealer brush.
c. eyeshadow brush - stiff, great for cream shadows tho.
d. eyeshadow applicator - just a fancy name for sponge applicator.
e. eyebrows and eyelash brush - great for brow grooming, and lash separator.
2. RETRACTABLE POWDER BRUSH - i love that it has a cap, very travel friendly! quite similar to stila's retractable brush, even softer, yet rounder.
3. LARGE POWDER BRUSH - perfect for bronzer application, best used with setting/loose powders
4. FLUID FOUNDATION BRUSH - works best with cream foundations and concealers
5. SLANTED BLUSHER BRUSH - perfect for blush application, even better for contouring
6. POINTED EYESHADOW BRUSH - defines the crease very well
7. CONCEALER BRUSH - scratchy. but i think i just got a bad stock cuz i've read great reviews for this one.
8. EYESHADOW BRUSH very similar in texture to the concealer brush, tho it's not scratchy at all!
9. SLANTED EYELINE & EYEBROWS DOUBLE SIDE BRUSH - LOVE! perfect for grooming brows. I've been using the slanted eye line brush to line my brows and my upper lid




Large powder brush and retractable brush comparison

Big Powder Brush vs Retractable Powder Brush
-basically functions the same way, only the big powder brush is fuller, while the retractable powder brush is more travel friendly and hygienic
- maybe bought alternately, as it is very similar. you don't really need both.


FAVORITES

if i were to choose just 3 brushes to recommend and buy, i'd choose the following
L-R - Fluid Foundation brush, Slanted blush brush, Eyeliner brush and spoolie duo
(excuse the messy brushes, i have been using it prior to taking pics)


1. Fluid Foundation brush - dual use: Cream/liquid Foundation brush and concealer brush! blending prowess is fantastic! can also double as creme blush applicator!
2. slanted blush brush - perfect for contouring, and with a light hand, blush application!
3. slanted eyeline brush - two words: brow grooming.

these are the 3 brushes i use every single day and i love it!

Quick Tip:
do not throw away the plastic packaging. it can be used to store the brushes when not in use, and especially if you have the travel brush, its plastic packaging is perfect for storing ALL the other brushes!

Le Verdict:
LOVE LOVE LOVE! 4.5 out of 5.
i took points off of the concealer brush which is HORRIBLE!

i love:
- affordable
- soft
- does the designated job and more
- hygienic packaging - each one even comes with a brush guard (except the travel set and the retractable brush)
- does not bleed when washed.
- no hair fall out when washed.

i hate:
- the scratchy concealer brush.

only the concealer brush is crappy.

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Forever 21 haul, among others.

YAY! finally, i made my forever 21 pilgrimage! it really feels like a pilgrimage cuz you guys know i hate hate hate malls in the QC area. Southern belle speaking. lol




i was kinda disappointed that the ones i wanted from rustan's mac and nars are all out of stock. :( still tho, i'm super happy with my purchases! :D

HAUL #1: FOREVER 21
1. Skimpy shorts
2. Sheer top
3. Floral dress
4. Dress shorts
5. bonnet (?)

1. gotta love the skimpy shorts.. eh? it's the new miniskirt! lol


2. Sheer sleeveless top - can be worn over any top. LOVE!


3. Dress Shorts - depending on the accessories, can go from semi-formal to casual. LOVE. sheer top may be worn inside too!

4. Floral Tube dress.

excuse the messy appearance. no make up. i was dead tired from the shopping and was about to sleep when i took the photos. :D

5. Crocheted bonnet. i didnt get accessories, so i just bought this. :D


HAUL #2: SM DEPARTMENT STORE

1. Parisian Red-Soled Heels - wore it the entire time i was shopping, and didnt hurt one tiny bit! LOVE! i most love that i can wear the shoes with any one of the outfits i bought from forever 21

2. James Cooper Cream Foundation
3. James Cooper Matte Loose Powder

didn't get the chance to wear 'em pa, but it sure looks promising!

HAUL #3: MANGO

1. Mango Shades - dual purpose for buying: a. didn't like the ones sold in Forever21, and I broke my H&M shades several minutes before buying this.

HAUL #4: AQUAZORB
i've wanted to buy aquazorb towels for the gym, but i didnt have time to go to shang. since i was finally there, i decided to get me some aquazorb. i love!

1. Oversized towel w/Breathable pouch - comes free with the huge orange bag, which i'm pretty sure is waterproof.
2. Large WorkOut Towel with breathable pouch
3. Hair Towel.

since it is over a thousand all in all, it came with a free box as well. :D now i gotta take my gym membership seriously. lol

Haul #5 LUSH
1. The Olive Branch hair and body shower gel.

ever since they phased out my sonic death monkey hair and shower gel, i was at a loss, since i loooovveed that stuff! will try this one if imma love it as much as i did my sonic death monkey.

that's all folks. was super tired from all the shopping i did, i literally passed out in my bed. :D

hope you enjoyed my QC malls haul. :D

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Product Focus: CK Eternity for women



CK Eternity for Women

i have been a late bloomer when it came to perfumes. i never really bought my own bottle until late last year. most of my perfumes were gifts by family and "ninangs" (godmothers). i prefer buying colognes any day because it was cost effective. hehehe. Eternity was the second perfume ive ever bought for myself.

late last year, i the very first perfume i bought for myself is the Estee Lauder Pleasures. and i was sorta "forced" to buy it, cuz i wanted to get the discounted make up set of Estee Lauder then, and the only perfume that came with a giftset was the pleasures one. i didnt really care much for the scent, i just wanted the free bag. SHH! you can check out the whole loot HERE.
the scent was okay, i guess, floral and all, but i was not gaga with it. three of my closest friends however would always try to steal it from my bag cuz they absolutely adore the scent! to each her own, i guess.

I was introduced to Eternity when last year, my mom gave me the CK Eternity Moment lotion (she kept the perfume for herself.) it was lying around in my room for soo long without getting love from me. then, on a whim, i went to Malaysia late March, and as i was hastily packing, i just grabbed the first lotion i could reach. it turned out to be the Eternity Moment lotion. while in malaysia, i can't get over the scent of the lotion. it was love at first sniff, i guess. :D then completely forgot about it again, cuz i was travelling so much. (Malaysia was the only impromptu trip tho, cuz my other trips were planned waaay ahead of time)

after all the travelling i did, late May, i was finally back home here in Pinas, and i was on a shopping trip with my friend Roxy when we chanced upon the Calvin Klein store in MOA. i went inside and asked for the CK Eternity perfume (i got a bit confused, i thought the lotion i had was eternity and not eternity moment). I instantly fell in love with the Eternity Perfume, tho it was a bit more stronger than the CK Eternity Moment was. I just could not get over how good it smelled! So I made a mental note to grab a bottle soon.

a few days later that was exactly what i did. i got myself my now beloved CK eternity perfume (which i think will be my signature scent.) i loved the scent soo much that i again bought another bottle as "back-up." i never want to ever run out of this stuff, you see.

THE SCENT:
top notes:
citruses, green notes, mandarin orange, freesia, sage

middle notes:
lily, carnation, violet, jasmine, marigold, lily of the valley, rose, narcissus

base notes:
sandalwood, amber, patchouli, musk, heliotrope

*notes description copied from fragrantica.com

i really don't understand the top notes base notes thing, as i am really a perfume noob, but from what i can tell, the first spray would come on a little bit strong, and a tad horrible smelling even, but as the different notes settle and fuse it leaves a very classic, floral, and femine scent. i love love love it.
i think it is best worn during quiet, romantic evening dates as it just gives off that classic, subdued vibe.

despite being introduced in the loud 80's, it's packaging and bottle is very simplistic, sophisticated and elegant, quite like the scent itself.

History:
i did a few "research" work and i found out off of the net *cough* wikipedia *cough* that:


if you are thinking of getting a perfume, this one is highly recommended by me! 10 out of 10 stars!

if you, my lovely readers absolutely have to choose just one perfume to wear all the time what would it be? or have you found the perfect one? i sure wanna know, cuz i feel that me and my Eternity perfume will have a looong and fresh smelling relationship for all of, well, eternity. lol

sidenote:
this is my I'm-too-excited-for-my-forever21-pilgrimage-to-sleep blogpost. bear with me. lol

**photo taken off of google images.

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pre-forever 21 post



i know.. so late. i kinda feel like i'm the last lady blogger to visit forever21.. it's just faaar from my place.. and i hate the malls in the north (sorry northern gals, spoken like a true southern belle.. lol)

but...

finally this thursday imma be visiting the flagship store with my bestest kikay gal pal, roxy! yay!

i already have a list of the things i wanna get, hopefully i stick to it! :D

1. SUN GLASSES - everyone who's ever met me would know that i am all about the SHADES! lol

2. tops - laid back tanks would be best

3. short shorts - can't get enough of these skimpy shorts! LOVE

4. Dress - optional tho, depending on le budget! lol

5. Accessories - maybe a belt.


*since imma be visiting megamall, might as well hit the dept store for these:

1. James Cooper Cosmetics - not all SM dept store carry the line and ive been hearing really good stuff bout the cream foundie and the setting powder. imma check that out.

2. Parisian Shoes - the ones that figured in the Manila Fashion Week last june. I WANT!
i want the one in the far left and the one third from left! lol

*imma definitely hit up Shangri La na din to get a few essentials

1. the nars mini multiple trio - ive been salivating over these since january pa and i will get it na.

2. MAC Pink Noveau Lipstick - that's been getting buzz na talaga.

haaayyy just thinking about it makes me salivate.. imma be a whole lotta poorer, but hopefully a whole lotta happier too! and ive been saving so show me the cashier! lol

(i'm really a "lists" person so i just gotta make lists ALL the friggin time)

imma check back thurs or fri to show you guys my loot!

**photos stolen via google images. peace! :D

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Product Focus: Ever Bilena Mousse Blushes

TOP: L-R Aster, Rose Pink
BOTTOM L-R Scarlet, Dusty Mauve


Le Price:
125 pesos per pot.
the packaging is very similar to mac paintpots, except that the caps on the EB have a weird shape on them. also, while mac paint pots contain 5g of the product, an EB mousse blush or eyeshadow contains 7g.

Le Experience:
i was able to swatch EB's new Mousse Cosmetics while doing some grocery shopping. i fell in love with them right away, so much so that i was making a beeline for the nearest watsons the following day in order to get me the mousse line!
i was not exactly blown away by the mousse blushes at first because i didnt like the way it swatched on my hand, but i figured i could probably use it as a base for my blushes.
let me tell you now that first impressions are not accurate! once i got home, i decided to test out Aster, the one that looks pale pink in the pot. once i blended it on my cheek, i fell right in love! it gives you the right amount of a fresh-faced glow! it is very moisturizing too! The air-whipped consistency is living up to its rep. the mousse itself is very light on the skin. (and that's saying a lot cuz ever since i used airbrush cosmetics, i find that most conventional makeup is heavy on my skin,) with this product tho, i hardly ever felt like i had makeup on.


L-R: Dusty Mauve, Aster, Rose Pink, Scarlet

1. Dusty Mauve - Peach Colored. will give you just the right amount of tinge in your cheeks, without appearing to be blushing, if that makes sense. it will just enhance your features.

2. Aster - Appears to be pale pink on the pot and when swatched, but don't let it fool you! once blended, it gives off the best blush of the four! it's healthy pink. no other way to describe it.

3. Rose Pink - Reddish Pink, tho pink is more dominant. it's a stronger pink than aster, i think this one would be better used on night outs or photo sessions when you want to make a bolder statement with your blush. best paired with a flirty pink lipstick and nude eyes.

4. Scarlet - Reddish Orange - more on the red side tho with just a hint of orange, if that makes sense. this one i would take to the gym to fake that healthy flush that can be achieved thru working the thread mill.


Applied and Blended
L-R Dusty Mauve, Rose Pink, Aster, Scarlet*

*note - scarlet does not look like an ugly muddy-brown color in real life. i guess the lighting of the room clashed horribly with my flash and the distance between the camera and scarlet.

Le Verdict:
4.0 out of 5 Stars

What I like:
  • great color pay-off
  • consistency
  • light weight
  • inexpensive
What I don't like:
  • un-hygienic packaging
  • ugly, cheap packaging (i've had it for a day and already the silver logo's peeling off)
  • staying power's not so great (3 hours, max. tho setting it with a powder blush should do the trick.)
i highly recommend this product because, considering the price, quality is great. (i feel like i say this all the time, but hey, if the product is not so stellar, then i wouldn't even bother making a product focus post on it.)

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Another Watson's Haul



I was feeling a little down lately so i decided to amp up my makeup collection! As Samantha Jones would say, "break ups are bad for the heart, but good for the economy." and what better way to bolster up the economy than to buy local brands, right? also, i am gearing up for another asian trip and i prefer to bring fanny serrano cosmetics than my high end ones because i simply don't trust the stevedores and baggage dudes to handle up my fragiles.

These are what i bought:

the boring stuff first

essentials:
1. contact lens (monthlies)
2. contact lens case - my old one was getting dirty already
3. small lens solution - something that would fit my bag
4. packets of disposable teeth cleaner - i got curious, and with 15pesos a pop, i decided to buy several.

okay. 'nuff of boring non-makeup stuff! lol

The Good Stuff:
Marionnaud brushes
I originally bought the travel set, pointed eyeshadow brush, and the slanted eyeline and eyebrows double side brush but i left it in Waterfront Lahug in Cebu. :( so I had to re-buy them. within the span of 1 week, i was able to buy most of the ones in watson's. i am just missing the retractable brush which i plan to pick up tomorrow. :D i have the following now (L-R in photos)

1. Travel Set
2. Large Powder Brush
3. Fluid Foundation Brush
4. Slanted Blusher Brush
5. Concealer Brush
6. Pointed Eyeshadow Brush
7. Eyeshadow Brush
8. Slanted Eyeline & Eyebrows Double Side Brush

I will go into detail about this brushes when i do the formal review next! :D

Fanny Serrano Cosmetics
I fell in love with Fanny Serrano Cosmetics since last year, and unlike boyfriends, i have never fallen out of love with FS yet. lol!

1. Two-Way Cake in Rajah - for contour
2. Two-Way Cake in Orleans - to warm up my face, so i don't look too pale.
3. Eyebrow Powder - self-explanatory. lol
4. Two-Way Cake in Organza - my natural shade
5. Two-Way Cake in Silk - for highlight

paired with the FS concealers and used with the Marionnaud brushes, it creates a fantastic no-make up look, yet it covers blemishes, dark spots and under-eye circles!

Ever Bilena
I came across Ever Bilena's new line, the Mousse Cosmetics, and i have been curious enough to test it out in the counters. i loved what i saw so i got the ones i wanted. haven't roadtested them much tho as i've just gotten them yesterday. :D

Top:
1. Mousse Matte Foundation in Hazelnut - with pinkish undertone for under-eye.
2. Mousse Matte Foundation in Acorn - my natural shade
3. Mousse Concealer in Pure Beige - to conceal blemishes.

Bottom:
1. Mousse Blush in Dusty Mauve - a peach colored blush
2. Mousse Blush in Rose Pink - reddish-pink colored blush, more on the pink side tho.
3. Mousse Eyeshadow in Amber - copper-nude mousse shadow (think paintpots)
4. Mousse Blush in Aster - Pink. no other way to describe it. amazing color tho.
5. Mousse Blush in Scarlet - Reddish-Orange blush.

expect swatches, especially of the blushes on my next posts. :D

there you have it. i hoped you enjoyed viewing these as much as i have enjoyed buying them! lol. a truly hope this "inspires" you into looking into the treasures of our local makeup brands. :D

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