AMW Reads: For the Month of January

It isn't difficult to find good reads over the internet.  There are a whole lot of resources out there and I will be doing a roundup this month for the "bunch".  The "bunch" I'd love to meet someday! *praying hard*

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I've been intrigued with L'Oreal's True Match Foundation and I've been meaning to purchase it for the longest time.  I'm glad Red Luscious Lips talks about it candidly

I've been a cloth pantyliner user for more than a year and I'm glad to see my fellow beauty sister Pretty Beautiful tried it herself when she Braved 6.5 Reversible Cloth Pantyliner

I am into hair care recently and when I saw Lipglosseater showed her lovely new hair color and style with a Super Quick Love Lace Look! I want to color my hair again

Playing with mascara isn't my thing, but when I saw the post of My Women Stuff on Maybelline Volum' Express The Magnun Mascara, I got inspired to check out my stash to start playing with masara and make my lashes happy once again!

I've had my own problems with my dry skin but I tend to forget to do anything about it.  When I read Beetrice's Review on Johnson's 24 Hour Lasting Moisture Body Lotion, I remembered I own 3 small bottles of it from an event I went, I pulled it out and gave it a go and I'm glad!

When So Loverly asked What's your number, blush baby?  It made me realized I have more primers than blushes!  I know have an excuse for blush shopping! :)

Contact lenses are one thing I've wanted but cannot try due to my super sensitive eyes!  That's why about FreshKon Mosaic Cosmetic Contact Lenses from Beauty Up My Life, I really wanted to break the rules...

As a makeup artist, doing brows for other people is one of the most challenging and vital!  I am amazed how Skin Deco tackled Eyebrows Are Sisters, Not Twins, seriously love the diagram and explanations!

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I hope you enjoy browsing these sites as much as I did!  I had a very busy day yesterday and I'm glad I am relaxing and having a nice "me" time today! Got to be ready for the coming week you know!

Keep smilin'
Stay Happy!

I Wonder: "Do You Use Hair Spritz?"

My hair has been given the most attention lately.  I guess with all the heating and styling I've done on my hair, I know I've done enough damage and I needed to give all the tender loving care I could think of!  I seldom use any conditioning sprays or moisturizing spritz right after I style my hair because I don't want to add product after product which may weigh down my hair or worst, cause dandruff!

On some days that I wake up with rebellious hair, there is one moisturizing spritz that I reach out for, Aquair Deep Moist from Shiseido!  This was a gift to me by my brother when he came down for a visit!  The spritz bottle is fabulous and the scent smells fresh and wonderful!  And best of all?  It does moisturize my hair and it never weighs my hair down!  It feels as if nothing was applied!

I wonder:

"Do You Ever Use Hair Spritz or any Conditioning Sprays 

        right after you blow dry or style your hair?"

Click on the comment section and share me your thoughts!
I'd love to hear from you!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: NYX Professional MakeUp Artist Palette Set 101

I am a fan of palettes!  Why?  I find it easier to carry around during gigs and it looks way professional!  That's why when NYX, the brand I trust for drugstore makeup that's good in quality, created a Make-Up Artist Kit, I am NOT hesitant to give it a test and share my reviews based on my personal experiences and opinions!  Can I just say...expect a lot of photos as you scroll down?  :)  Enjoy!

NYX Professional Makeup Artist Palette says ---

 
All in-one case for easy and beautiful makeup application whether at home or jet setting across the world. 35 eyeshadow, 3 bronzers, 5 blushers, 5 lip colors. Comes with applicator and mirror.
 
Size: 7.3125"W x 7.3125"H x 1.625"D 
Available in 2 sets: 101 and 102 

Set 101 top contains 35 eyeshadow shades 

 

 

2nd layer contains 3 bronzers, 

5 blushers and 5 lip colors with applicators

 

AMW says ---

Pros

• packaging: looks actually nice and very professional + mirror!
  
• most of them are very pigmented
• the blush colors are very pigmented
• all 5 lip colors are gorgeous and easy to mix and match
  
• easy to blend
  
• a nice palette for those starting up on makeup 
• packaging actually looks expensive, very professional looking
• a bit pricey at first glance but when you count the number of eyeshadows, blushers, bronzers and lip color, it's worth it!
• each pan is almost the same as MAC e/s pan, a lot of product!
• available locally! 
  

Cons

• if you are into matte shades, this palette does not have a lot of matte e/s, mostly shimmery
• huge palette!  Quite heavy to tote around.  To show the size of this palette, I've put 2 PSP on top of the palette and there's still space!

• the slide compartment is a bit hassle to use and difficult to balance with one hand during makeup application
• there are a few shadows that are a bit powdery
• it would be PERFECT if they included contouring powder (wishful thinking) 
  
• useless "free" applicators

 

Overall

I own a couple of NYX single eyeshadows and I don't usually carry them around during gigs because it takes up a lot of space and it's a huge hassle to have it laying all around the makeup area.  That's why owning a palette is definitely a solution!  If you are looking for a palette that has almost everything you need, with the right quality and good price.  You definitely have to look into this one!  I just wish they make the packaging sleeker and easy to tote around!

Tips

• always use an eye primer for the eyeshadow to last longer
• don't want your blush to fade quickly?  Use a cream/gel blush prior to using the powder brush
• you can mix and match blush color!  I love applying the gold blush on top of the matte pink blush, it creates a health glow
• use a lip brush for the lipstick shades
• lip colors can get drying, moisturize your lips prior to application
  
• you can also mix lipstick shades to create new colors!  
• glitter on the lip color is quite difficult to remove, use a lip makeup remover!
  

Will I repurchase?

Not the same palette, this lasts for a long time!

Where to purchase and how much?
Locally at HD Makeup Studio for Php1,800 (approx $39.00)

Now on to the real thing

Swatches GALORE!

I seriously love all of you.  I swatched everything!  Just to show you guys how pretty and pigmented these eyeshadows are!  Swatched without base!  You can check out some really pretty shades!  A huge holler to my favorite shades:  1a, 1f, 2f , 3f (a nice dupe for MAC Amber Lights), 4f (reminded me of Stila Kitten), 5a (I can't seem to remember the shade name but I own a MAC shade that's similar to this) and 6f which is a nice old rose color that I don't have!  You can always click photos to enlarge!  You can also see which shades are really pigmented and creamy while there are some bad eggs that are quite powdery, but it's no big deal!  Just one or two of them!  Nothing serious!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Bronzers

I do like using them as eyeshadows on most days

I also like mixing both colors to create a "lighter" shade

Blush Shades

I love using D for a nice healthy glow

letter E for a barbie pink cheeks! 

 

Lip Colors

ranges from nudes, pinks and peach

  A is my favorite, it is a nice pink lip color with bluish undertone!

B lip color looks close to my lip color!  Very natural looking

and D is perfect for that "nude" lips that you want

 

This is definitely a "hit"!  I won't be surprised this will get into the hands of make-up artists and make-up enthusiasts out there! 

Have a wonderful Friday!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Neutrogena Says: "Love Your Skin This Valentine's Season"

Dear Philippine Readers:

Celebrate the Valentine’s season by showing your skin some love! Neutrogena®, the brand recommended by dermatologists, is now offering a special promo for its revolutionary facial cleanser – the Neutrogena® Wave. 

Get a 50% discount on Neutrogena® Wave’s Deep Clean Foaming Pad Refill pack of thirty (30) foaming pads! Simply purchase a Neutrogena® Wave starter kit from January 28 to February 24, 2010 in all Watson’s and all Beauty by SM outlets. 

The Neutrogena® Wave starter kit includes the power cleanser gadget, two-week supply (or 14 pads) of single-use foaming pads and one AA battery. Proven to clean the skin ten times deeper than traditional facial cleansers, the Neutrogena® Wave’s tingly cool foam penetrates deeper into pores while the gentle vibrating motion stimulates and opens the skin’s surface to remove more dirt, oil and make-up. At the same time, the softly textured Deep Clean Foaming Pad sweeps away layers of dead skin cells for visibly softer, smoother skin after just one use.

Avail of the thirty-day (30) refill packs for half the price at Php 200.00, with the Wave starter kit, and experience a deep clean for a refreshed and remarkably softer skin that you will surely love! After all, providing superior cleansing for your skin will help you look your best as you spend Valentine’s with your special someone or your best friends.

If you've been planning to try this anyways!
Why not grab the chance now to save?

I am using Neutrogena Wave once a week to exfoliate and it works really well!
I even repurchased for my brother!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Tip for the Day: Cream Blush Application AMW Style

As a makeup artist and beauty blogger, searching for a "long lasting" makeup is definitely a priority!  I've done my search on eyeliners, foundation, and of course, blush will definitely be the next!  I've always had problems with my blush as it fades in less than half a day!  When I finally purchased my own cream blush and tried the "sandwich" method, I never put blush without a cream blush underneath!

Now on to the requests.  A lot of you have requested on how I apply my cream blushes.  Each person has their own methods and I'm not saying mine is the best but I am comfortable with this method that I will share.  I do this method both on myself and clients! 

Tools of trade: (choose any) + any brand of cream blush

• your fingers
• stippling brush
• medium sized foundation brush

I am comfortable using my Smashbox  no. 13 foundation brush from the Smashbox Beyond Beauty Encounter Brush Kit.  You can use any foundation brush that's made of synthetic bristles.  The less dense, the better.

I use "dab" method to grab the product instead of swiping it back and forth. The latter grabs more product which may lead to clown face.  Less is more.  Add as you go on, it is better to add than to subtract....well, I'm talking about MakeupTICS! hahaha

 

With light, gentle strokes, brush the cream blush onto the apples of your cheeks.  Of course, the blush placement depends on your face shape.  You can smile and click HERE for tips.

 

Stand back and check if you're happy with the shade.  Try to make this look as natural as possible because you will add a powder blush.  Using too much will definitely make you look like you've been jogging for 2 hours under the hot sun!

 

I try to match the cream blush with the powder blush color, it doesn't have to be exact but same family.  A pink cream blush would go perfect with a pink powder blush.  I am using a matte pink blush from the NYX Professional Makeup Artist Kit (reviews and swatches will be up soon).

 

Gently apply the powder blush on top of the cream blush.  Blend as much as possible.  If you think you applied too much, do not panic!  With a fluffy brush, pat on press powder on your cheeks to lessen the blush pigments!

 

I've actually applied a bit more for photo purpose!  I hope my step-by-step photos help for those who are wary to use cream blushes out there.  What if you have pimples or spots on cheeks?  Always make sure you prime, conceal and apply the right type of foundation to create a smooth and clear base.  When in doubt? Practice! Practice! and Practice!  You'll get the hang of it!

 

So, are you game to try cream blushes?  I hope so!  I am definitely hooked!
Have a wonderful day!  Thanks for the requests and trust.

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Nail Art Tutorial: Romantic V-Day Nails

One nail art request that I got quite often is gradient nail art.  Gradient nail is a favorite nail art of mine but it's not a favorite "to-do" nail art as it's messy...messy and sometimes...just plain MESSY! :)  Since I'm still in the mood for the upcoming Valentine's Day.  I will continue my V-Day inspired nails.  If you're sick of Pinks and Reds, I am so sorry!  That's life, that's a good romantic combination for me! :)

Here's my final Romantic V-Day Nails

 

Step 1:

Apply your favorite base coat to protect your nails, let dry.  Apply 2 coats of your favorite base.  I am using Vision's Nail Polish (made by Oriflame) in Skydive.

Step 2:

Using Elianto's Shimmer Burgundy polish, apply a thick yet thin "French Tip" (at a random, don't make it perfect at all!)

 

Step 3:

Use any brand of Nail Hardener or Nail Base, anything that is clear and liquid-y in texture, brush the Burgundy Shimmer polish downwards to spread the color making a "gradient" effect.  Again, I have to remind everyone, does NOT have to be perfect. 

 

Step 4:

Using any way you want to create dots, in my case, I've used a Prettynails' 2 way nail art pen in white, create flowers at a random per nail.

 

Step 5:

Since I've been doing a lot of flower nail art, I want to vamp it up a bit by adding a second color on the flower, I've brushed gently yellow shade on top of the white petals.

 

Step 6:

Add rhinestones if you have one or just skip this step altogether if you don't own any rhinestones or swarovski flat bed crystals.

 

Step 7:

Making sure the nail art design is dry.  Brush glittery polish thinly on top of the nail art.  Again, this is an optional step.  As you all know, I am a fan of glittery polishes.

 

Step 8:

Protect your hard work by brushing OPI's RapiDry Top Coat

 

Now these nails are ready to go out on a date!
*winks*

 

 I actually enjoyed the outcome of this week's nail art design.  I hope you enjoyed the steps that I've done for you nail art addicts out there!  Again, thanks for always embracing my nail art designs!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy! :)

Dollface Cosmetics: Valentine's Photo Contest

Dear Philippine Readers:

Love creating looks? Love taking shots of your looks?
Then YOU can have the chance to win Php1,500 worth of Dollface Cosmetics!

How?  Click the photo to read the contest mechanics!

Goodluck!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reports: Enjoying the Day with GlamBox & Friends

Due to very busy schedule, I was a bit out of the loop with blogging events.  When I got an invite for GlamBox Airbrush Bloggers' Launch last January 23rd, I am glad my schedule is free because I've been interested with airbrush make-up right after I graduated the regular makeup course.

The event started with a warm cup of coffee or tea and wonderful snacks!

Makeup + Food = pure bliss!

Prior to the event, I do have an idea about Airbrush Makeup as my brother is an Architect and he uses his airbrush system for work like a breeze, well he's a smarty pants!  I, with the normal brain have seen how complicated it is and how difficult it is to use and not even understand how to control the PSI of the airbrush system.  PSI, in layman's term, is the airflow that needed to be adjusted to get the exact pressure you need for foundation, blush, eyebrows, eyeshadows, etc... Example, a lower PSI for sheerer finished foundation and a higher PSI for a heavier coverage.  Easy to say, but difficult to achieve without the knowledge and training.

That's when Ms. Valerie Tan discussed why GlamBox Airbrush Cosmetics was born.

It doesn't hurt that the GlamBox Airbrush system comes in black and pink (such a wonderful color combination), very lightweight, and a user friendly feature of choosing between Light, Medium and Dark rather than thinking about numbers or PSI's!  That's the best feature ever!!!

GlamBox Airbrush Cosmetics comes in 4 foundation shades (2 yellow tone and 2 pinkish tone), 2 cheek colors, an illuminizer and a thinner or cleanser.  All of the shades are silicon based except the luminizer.  As we all know, most international makeup brands like MAC are silicon-based most makeup artists prefer because of it's light weight properties.

I've asked Ms. Valerie if they plan to increase the shades of their foundation and cheek color, and the answer is YES!  So more choices to come in the future.

A swatch on foundation shade

1. Florence - light beige with yellow undertone

2. Cannes - natural beige with reddish undertone

3. Barcelona  - medium beige with reddish undertone

4. St. Tropez - dark beige with yellow undertone

On to cheek colors and luminizer

1. Venice Gold - light gold used alone or mixed with your foundation

2. Malibu -light pink

3. Cancun - darker rose pink

The ladies trying out GlamBox Airbrush for the first time

 

My dearest friend Sophie, the Beautynomist, 

testing the GlamBox Airbrush on Jane

 

 Here's Jane looking gorgeous after airbrush foundation application

Seriously looks more gorgeous in real life

The attendees

  L-R Cher, Me and Jane

L-R Bambi, Lauren and Nikki

Of course, this wonderful shot c/o Mark *thank you*

  L-R Shen, Me, Sophie and Phoebe

 I have to take a shot of these 2 lovely ladies

The GlamBox Ladies

Andrea and Valerie!

There are 2 kits available to purchase ---

The GlamBox Starter Kit (Php8,500/approx $185)

One - 30ml Foundation (of your choice)

One - 20ml Cheek Color (of your choice)

One - 30ml Cleaner and Thinner

Compressor

Airbrush Gun (with accessories)

Gun holder

Adaptor

Airhose

DVD

The GlamBox Deluxe Kit (Php11,800/approx $257.00

All Colors

Four - 30ml Foundation

Two - 20ml Cheek Color

One - 20ml Luminizer

Three - 30ml Cleanser and Thinner

Compressor

Airbrush Gun (with accessories)

Gun holder

Adaptor

Airhose

DVD

They've added up the GLAM in GlamBox when a pink satin bag packaging was added and the kit will be available starting January 27, 2010.  Also, a lucky facebook fan of GlamBox Airbrush Cosmetics will win a Starter Kit, promo ends February 28, 2010!

Oh yeah, this is a long post but I have to share!  Your dearest AMW herself, won her own Starter Kit at the event!  Cannot believe my ears when they call on my name!  I am seldom lucky with names inside the bowl thingy!  But I guess the year is starting out great for me! :)  Expect an in-depth review on the system in the future.

Thanks to GlamBox Airbrush Cosmetics for the lovely event.
Thanks to my wonderful beauty blogging friends for being such a sweetheart
And great to meet a lot of new faces in the event!

Now, staying positive is good eh?
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Do check out our dear  

Beautynomist's Report