AMW Reviews: L'oreal Colour Riche in Coral

I am not used to wearing bold colored lipsticks!  Why? Because I am conscious of my dry lip!  

When I braved the fear for red lipsticks, I know the rest of the colors will be easier for me to wear!  Next is a "peachy orange reddish" toned lipstick!  I finally realized that its easier to wear Red than Orange, I don't know if you feel the same.

My Aunt from Canada gave me a couple of L'oreal Colour Riche Lipsticks.  One shade caught my eye and I told myself : "It's definitely a sign, I must try this shade!"

L'oreal Colour Riche lipstick says ---

• Nurtures lips to keep them soft, smooth, and supple with ultra-hydrating Omega 3.
• Protects against moisture-loss with the conditioning power of Vitamin E.
• Creamy, anti-feathering lip liners coordinate perfectly with Color Riche lipcolors.

AMW says---

Pros

• shade: wonderful peachy orange tone that suits both dark and light skin
  
• moisturizing
• very pigmented 
• applies evenly on lips
  
• packaging is quite cute, love the L'oreal etching on the lipstick

Cons

•  scented, not too strong, but if you hate scents on lipsticks, this is a con then
• do not expect a super long lasting lipstick, need to reapply every now and then
  

Overall

This lipstick shade looks very matte on tube but it gives out a pretty sheen when applied on lips.  For a drugstore lipstick, I find the quality of this quite good!  I like it that it doesn't create flakiness on my lips and I've tried using this without lip balm beneath and it didn't create "crocodile lips"!  I can still see the lines on my lips but that can be solved with a clear gloss.

Tips

• if you have super dry lips like mine, moisturize your lips prior to lipstick application
• if you find the shade to be overwhelming, blot excess with a paper napkin right after
  
• hate the lines created by lipstick on your lips?  Apply clear gloss on top
• store in cool dry place
• wait for sales coming up every now and then
  

Will I repurchase?

Yes

Where to purchase and how much?

I believe these are available at L'oreal counters for Php600+ (approx $12.75)

Shade 431 CORAL

Overall look and feel of the lipstick

Swiped 2x, no base
with and without camera flash

Applied on bare lips

no lip balm or clear gloss

Have you tried any bold colored lipsticks lately?
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: BECCA Silky Hydrating Primer

Good day everyone!  Thanks for enjoying my Becca Cosmetics Counter Report.  Let me clarify that the guy who stopped us from taking photos is actually nice and friendly, he told us that it's prohibited in a nice manner, so I don't have any grudge against him :)  To those who asked if Becca counter is customer friendly?  Base on my experience, yes.  Why? Because they have testers for almost all of their products and I don't have any saleslady hovering around me pressuring me to try on products I don't even plan to purchase!  I had my freedom and I enjoyed it!

My piece of advise, no matter how cheap  or expensive a product is, always understand the product you are purchasing and make sure the "need" is there. Always check for the availability of testers (especially for pricey ones) and please do not feel obligated to purchase just because you "tested" their testers or you took the time of the sales lady.  In times like these, spend your hard earned money wisely!   

BECCA Silky Hydrating Primer says ---

Silky Hydrating Prime with anti-oxidant vitamin E, works to moisturize and prepare the skin for foundation by creating a soft, even surface.  Helping the skin retain moisture and creating a silky smooth texture, it allows liquid and cream based products to glide on easily, and stay fresh looking, longer.  

• Visibly improves the look and texture of the skin by smoothing fine lines and pores. 
• Provides a protective barrier, sealing in moisture 
• Allows liquid and cream based products to glide easily over the skin and stay on longer
• Keeps makeup looking fresher longer
• Prevents moisture loss during air travel and in air conditioning
• Doubles as a moisturizer 
• Provides the perfect base for eye shadow to glide over

Size: 50ml/1.7 fl oz tube

Made in Germany

Ingredients:

(you can click to enlarge)

AMW says ---

Pros

• dermatologically tested
• absorbs to the skin easily
  
• no skin flaking for the whole day, skin is moisturized and hydrated the whole day
  
• wonderful for my "mature-skinned" clients as this is super moisturizing so makeup won't budge and skin remains moisturized!
  
• makeup stayed the whole day with a bit of touch-up on areas that aren't too dry
• I can use this without moisturizer on some days - sunscreen, this and foundation!
• cream and liquid foundations that are usually dry on me glides on smoothly!
• I also use this to gently pat on my eyelid area so my eye primer doesn't came out too dry when applied
  
• product is sealed to ensure "freshness"

Cons

• the strong floral scent, I am not a fan of the strong scent, it stays with me more than 30minutes!
• has a bit of "tacky" feel right after application (read tip below on how to deal with this)
  
• have to store this primer laying down or the other way around to make sure the product won't "burst out" when I twist the cap 
• even when stored properly, the opening looks like this when twisted to cap to open

• doesn't fill in fine lines, it decreases a bit but do not expect too much!  Botox will always be Botox, do not expect this product to totally erase your lines
  
• the box and the tube's product shelf life is confusing

Overall




BECCA Silky Hydrating Primer lives up to its name!  Silky and super hydrating!  It took me quite some time to review this product as I've tested this primer with cream foundation and liquid foundation and even powder foundation!  I've found that it doesn't create flakiness or dryness and it made my foundation application easier because it goes on smoothly. 

Another primer I own that works for dry skin like mine is the Paul & Joe Protective Foundation Primer but this is multiplied by 3x for its super moisturizing properties!  No other primers I've tried could moisturize my skin this much so please...for people who's reading this review having Normal or Normal to Oily skin, they have other primers from Becca that will suit your skin's need. This product will work best for people with dry or even super dry skin! 


Tips

• tacky feel: leave for a couple of minutes before you follow up with foundation application, make sure the primer has been absorbed to the skin
• set the foundation with a setting powder to prevent from oiling up
  
• normal to oily skin, do purchase different version of their primers suited for your skin type.
• use a small pea size amount for the whole face, I once applied too much because the product squirted out too much accidentally and my face felt weird and heavy the whole day!  A little goes a long way
• can use your clean fingers to apply this or a foundation brush
• let the product sink in to the skin approximately 5-10 minutes before you start applying your foundation
• if itchiness occur, STOP using the product
  

Will I repurchase?


Yes, because this will work great for my makeup gigs for mature and very dry skin!


Where to purchase and how much?

BECCA Counter, ADORA Greenbelt 5 for Php2,350 (approx $50.00)

Here's a sample amount I use for my whole face

this is the "perfect" amount, not too much and not too little

Rub gently on my hand, 

gently massaging and patting it

 

 Absorbs to my skin easily

 

And here's a close up shot of my skin using MAC Studio Fix Foundation in NC20, this foundation flakes on me the most so I don't use this much due to my dry skin, so I tested the primer with this, no moisturizer used and the result is...

 

The usual flakes on my cheeks and sides of the nose isn't that visible as before.  So the primer really works, it gives out a subtle glow and skin stays hydrated.  

I just wish the scent isn't that overpowering!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Happy Friday!

AMW Reports: "Runway Ready" Hair at Philippine Fashion Week

I was invited to an event where Cream Silk Treatment teams up with the Philippine Fashion Week to celebrate women who know that beautiful hair is key element to fully project their sense of style and beauty.     

How can a hair treatment product help out in the Philippine Fashion Week (PFW)?

Come to think of it, models get the most beating for hair due to constant brushing, styling and heating.  To make them ready for runway especially through the eight days of Philippine Fashion Week, Cream Silk treatment made sure that beautiful hair went hand in  hand with fashion.  The country's top models were given free hair treatments in between shows to repair their hair after continuous styling.

"Ready to Wear!  Visions and Trends Collections on the catwalk for Philippine Fashion Week Spring Summer 2010"  This event was held at the Main Atrium in the SM Mall of Asia and I can't wait to witness new designs of Alodia Cecilia, Anna Leah Salvador, Ava Paguyo, Ciege Cagalawan, Dimple Lim, Don Protasio, Jian Lasala, Kristel Yulo, Lizanne Cua, Pier Lim, Reian Mata and Tippi Ocampo.

Wonderful Stage Setup

Together  with Shen 

Sis, I really love your new hair color!

 

Here are just some of the shots of lovely collections I've witnessed from creative and talented young designers.  I can't help but notice the smooth , shiny hair!

  

 

 

 

Had a lovely dinner at Burgoo right after the event with Shen and Stratworks'

Charisse Vilchez (thanks sweetie for the invite)

 

I had a wonderful time!  Great food, great companion and of course I met a couple of new people and it brings a big smile on my face on my way home!

 

And if you're wondering what I'm holding on the photo, I'm hugging my new Cream Silk Precision Repair Treament, I am excited for the weekend to get the 360 deg Total Damage Repair!  Packed nicely in a transparent box with royal blue and silver ribbon, up until the very moment, I haven't remove them out of the box yet!!!  Too cute!

 

So you know what to watch out for in my next hair treatment review!  This will be my first time to use the treatment from Cream Silk!  I'm excited!!!

Have you tried this treatment?

Any advices?  Tips?

All I can say for now is...the packaging is gorgeous!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy! 

 

J&J Contest: "Your Worst Pimple Moment" (Contest Closed!)

Good morning friends!  There is something fun happening on my blog for my dear local readers!  Remember my Something New: JnJ Clean & Clear Active Clear Acne Control Kit post?  Well, fortunately, Johnson & Johnson Philippines somehow read my blog about it and saw all your wonderful comments!

So something good is coming up!!!  You can own your own set of the Acne Control Kit for FREE!!!

How?

1. Simply comment on this post briefly telling us your "Worst pimple moment" (true story please)
   
2. Type in your full name and your email address
3. No duplicate entries 
4. Contest starts NOW and will end October 31, 2009.
5. I, together with our JnJ Friends will be choosing the "Worst Pimple Moment" story
6. One winner will be announced first week of November 2009
7. Sorry, Philippine Readers only  :)
   

Want to know more details about the Acne Control Kit and other promotions they have in store?
You can always visit their website, by smiling and clicking HERE.


Goodluck!
Go ahead and share your stories!
Those worst pimple moments can finally make you win something!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: L'oreal UV Perfect Advanced Cream-Gel Protector

I got to admit, I haven't been faithful with my sunblock application, but its a big improvement as compared to no sunblock for the body at all!  After finding the right kind of sunblock, it isn't hard to stick to the regimen and the feel of protection is definitely priceless!

I haven't been reviewing a lot of sunscreens because it takes me lifetime finish a tube and so far, I'm done with my Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF50+++ so I'm on the try different brands!  One brand that caught my attention because it's name has "CREAM-GEL" written on it....

 L'oreal UV Perfect (XL Block) Advanced Cream-Gel Protector

for Chest, Arms & Hands SPF30 PA+++

L'oreal UV Perfect Advanced Cream-Gel Protector says ---

To better protect skin against outside and inside aggressions, and prevent premature skin aging.It is easily absorbed by the skin while being water-resistant, ensuring comfort and non-stickiness right from the time you put it on your body.

AMW says ---

Pros 

• non sticky and non greasy
• easily absorbed by the skin
  
• nice squeeze type tube that's easy to use
• no strong scent or weird sunblock scent
• no weird white residue on skin
• no allergies for my sensitive skin!
  
• has manufactured date imprinted (very very good L'oreal!)

Cons

• better if has higher SPF, reach it to 50+++

Overall

This is a wonderful product because it lives up to what it claims, non-greasy, oil-free and doesn't give out weird sunblock smell.  True to its claim again, I've been constantly using this for a month and so far, no skin darkening for me and both my left and right arm are still the same color.  Due to travel from home to work, the sun always shines (weirdly) on my left side!  So far, I don't look like a zebra, so that's good news!

But, I can't help but compare this to my first sunblock love, both works great!  But one factor that made me lean on to Neutrogena is the SPF 50 ++ as compared to L'oreal's SPF30++.  I know, I don't need SPF50+++ for regular days but I just can't help but feel more protected with it!

But, on L'oreals defense, I like the flip-type cap of L'oreal better!  Click Click in the morning is something I'd love to play with!  Childish?  Yes, but I don't care, it makes me happy! lol

Tips

• apply sunscreen at least 5-10 minutes before you get exposed making sure the product has been completely absorbed by the skin

• if you're out in the sun too long, re-apply after 3-4 hours
• re-apply approximately 2-3 hours later if you perspire too much
• wait for sales, L'oreal brands are frequently on sale from 10%-20%
  

Will I repurchase?

Probably, if they are on sale, but for it's price I can easily go for my first love Neutrogena Sunblock which has SPF50++

Where to purchase and how much?

At L'oreal counters for Php460.00 (approx $10.00)


Now, I have to ask!
"Are you using sunblock to protect yourself from the sun?"
If not...How Dare You!!!
What are you waiting for?
It's never too late to start!


keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reports: Becca Cosmetics Counter

Happy Monday people!  I won't be having any Monday blues because I won't be at work today, I will be off for a passport renewal so I took the day off!  Passport renewal means more places to go? *I wish!*

Let me bring in sunshine for our Monday Blues to the rest of the crew who has to work!  When I posted about my Becca Cream Blush review, one reader emailed me and asked me Becca stuffs should they expect when they visit the counter.  My mind went blank. Seriously, I can't seem to remember, so when I had to chance to visit the counter again, I didn't think twice to ask my "ninja husband" to help me take shots.  Sorry it's not that clear as he used a cellphone camera!  A ninja shouldn't be obvious right? :P

Note: Yours truly is off to a wedding party right after so please do not think I'm dressing up just to shop! lol

Becca Counter is located inside Adora mall.  Adora is located at the 2nd and 3rd floor of Greenbelt 5.  It reminded me of Rustan's (for people who are familiar with it) but better, its a posh looking area that sells perfumes, cosmetics, clothing and a lot more. 

Becca greeted me with a nice makeup area.  2 of the exact one on photo!  You can freely roam around and check out the testers that are readily available for you.  They also include cotton pads, paper napkin and alcohol for you to disinfect before and after testing!  I love it when cosmetic counters took the effort to do these.

First stop, the Complexion and Makeup section.  Looking at the photo below, the left side are the Stick Foundations while the simple packaging on the right side are their tinted moisturizers called Luminous Skin Color. 

I tested the Luminous Skin Color and I am loving the texture.  I am really happy to announce that they have wide range of shades for every skin color.

Next stop, the Compact Concealers, if you are familiar with Eve Pearl concealers, the concept is similar, 2 concealer shades in one compact, but I think the Becca Concealers are larger in size, correct me if I'm wrong.  Same as the Stick Foundation and Luminous Skin Color, these are available i wide ranges of shades for both warm and cool skin tone.

The Fine Pressed Powders are too cute to miss out!  They are separated in Light and Dark.  I've swiped the powder on hand and they are very silky indeed.  Those cute little jars you see that looks like MAC's loose pigments?  They're Loose Powders.  I believe they are used to set foundation and some people like it in loose form!  So they have it!  I personally like the pressed version though, as always!

Another cute jar called Loose Shimmer Powders are there for the cheeks area.  These are multi-functional and can be used for eyes, cheeks, body or even the lips!  They also have their bestselling Becca Beach Tint on a cute squeeze type tube.

 And several shades of Becca Cream blushes that are lined up like an army!

As I went oooohing and ahhing on all the products.  The diligent photographer strategically took shots on everything while I'm checking out the lips area.  There are Sheer Tint Lip Color packed in a nice silver lipstick tube, Glossy Lip Tints packaged in a glass tube and another set of Beach Tints for the lips!  They also have Lip Liners but I don't see a lot of shades available for it.  The nude lip liner caught my eye!

And I nearly forgot this area!  I was amazed when I saw their display for makeup brushes and beauty tools!  They don't come in cheap, but with my quick touch test, these brushes are definitely promising!

 I like it how their products are all strategically displayed and there's a huge sofa where you can sit or relax, or probably a place where most "significant" others would sit while waiting for their loved ones spend their lifetime savings! lol

A guy from Adora came towards us (not to tell me that I look pretty) but to tell us that we're not allowed to take photos. I smiled my sweetest smile and apologized....

"Sorry, we will be leaving..."

*whispers to husband*

"Sorry, we will be leaving...we got enough shots before you caught us!"

Bleh :P

Do expect a review on 

Becca Silky Hydrating Primer soon!

Yes, Primer Lady strikes again! :D 

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Weekend Food Tripping at: Home Cooked Meals

Home cooked meals are still the best in my opinion!  There are a lot of great food out there but nothing beats the warmth of meals made by your relatives or loved ones!  Thinking about it, I do miss my mom's cooking!  My mom doesn't cook much recently but before I move on to the sad story, let me go to the brighter side.

We were invited by Keith's Aunt and Uncle for a dinner over the weekend.  Keith and I love their cooking and it really fills the tummy with a huge smile on our faces!  I love it that they prepare different and well thought dishes each and everytime!  What did we fill our tummy with?

Steamed egg with eggplant

Steamed egg itself is wonderful, but with a mix of eggplant

and the soft texture of the egg, perfect to start the meal!

Fish Fillet Strips

This is my ultimate favorite!  The batter they use is perfect and not oily at all!

The meal was accompanied with home maid mayonnaise!  Sorry not on photo

the Fish strips was gone in less than 10 minutes! lol

Noodles with Vegetables

The noodles my look dry or tasteless

but looks really can be deceiving

it's the healthiest and most tasteful noodles I've tried

Hong Ba (Red Meat)

A Chinese version of Adobo (Filipino Dish) 

Pork leg cooked til the fire is "red" served with thick sauce.

These are basically cooked in long hours! The longer the better

The photo of the Pork may look dry but there's a separate sauce that came with it

Nothing beats dessert!

A nice Dairy Queen 

Vanilla Ice Cream Bar Cookie Bar

And a DQ Dilly Bar

Do you prefer home cooked meals 

or you'd rather spend the money to dine outside? 

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!