AMW Reports: Shiseido's White Lucent Skin Care Launch

I got an invite last week for Shiseido's White Lucent Launch at the Ayala Museum!  It was a long and lazy Monday but I was actually looking forward for this event because  I know a dear friend works there so I'm  excited to see her!  Hi to Vianca, who aside from being a friend, also works for Shiseido. *waves*

Aside from the excitement of seeing a friend, the brand itself is close to my heart.  A couple of years ago when I went to Hong Kong for a business trip, I left my whole skincare regiment back home *gasp* and you would think I'll freak out?  Of course not!  I'm in Hong Kong baby! Its a perfect excuse to go to Sasa and purchase a trial sized skincare brand!  Amidst all the brands, I've chosen Shiseido's Brightening Cleanser, Emulsion  and Moisturizer.  After 2 weeks stay in HK (sample size lasts more than 2 weeks).  I actually saw a huge difference on my skin, I can definitely see a healthy glow and brightness and I was able to meet people without makeup!  Looking back, I wonder why I never purchase any Shiseido skincare when I got back.  So fast forward to today, I am looking forward for a reunion.

The stage looks simple yet very elegant. The event was hosted by none other than the gorgeous model Ms.Georgina Wilson. I knew she's tall but in person, she's way taller and even more beautiful!

We were also introduced to the Area Manager of International Sales Department, Ms. Momoko Nagai!  I can't help but check out her skin!  She does has great skin!  Wonders if its the genes or Shiseido? I should've asked! :P

We all joined the countdown the bright skin! 

5...

4...

3...

2...

1....

Shiseido's White Lucent!

According to Shiseido:

Since its launch seven years ago, Shiseido's White Lucent skincare line has illuminated the true benefits of whitening skincare to women around the world.

In response to the rising global demand for whitening products, we have researched what women consider to be "ideal skin" and came to one conclusion.  Women dream of vibrant skin that glows from within, with a bright and even-toned clarity.

The newest technology of White Lucent makes this dream a reality.

We succeeded in compounding our exclusive whitening ingredients with new, advanced technologies.  Empowered by this harmony, the formulas help to visibly diminish dark spots and uneven skin tone white targeting various types of spots and helping to prevent their formation.

Enhanced by replenishing moisture that effective improves skin texture, skin begins to capture light with a pure radiance that appears lit from within.

White Lucent Serum on my hand

Gently rubbed until absorbed

It was such a lovely event meeting a lot of people from traditional media, and most of them are also part of the blogging industry!

L-R Ms. Vicky Marchadesch from Luxasia, 

Marichelle Ligon from Metro Society, 

Shen and myself

L-R Me! Jane, Frances and Shen

And of course, who could miss the wall of fame?  Me and my blogging friend Shen giving our final pose before we bid each other goodbye!

Have a wonderful day!  Holy week actually started but Philippine Holiday starts tomorrow!  To my Philippine readers, have a wonderful holiday and stay safe!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Revlon PhotoReady Make Up

One of the biggest challenge as a make-up artist is to create a natural-looking foundation sans the "ghostly" white cast especially on photos! 

High-definition (HD) makeup has been created recently and widely used by makeup artists worldwide.  Most HD makeup available in the market are quite pricey and a lot of us would just leave it to the makeup artists to purchase and for the rest of world?  Probably rely on PhotoShop to create clear looking skin!

One company taps into the emerging HD technology beauty trends for flawless skin under any light at an affordable price!  The collection is designed to provide flawless results even under unflattering conditions such as harsh lighting environment and high definition scrutiny!

That company is Revlon...Revlon PhotoReady provides flawless airbrushed look in any light!

 **photo courtesy of Revlon

Intrigued?  I was too!  

Nikki's Profile ---

• MAC equivalent shade: MC20
• Paul & Joe powder foundation: 02 or 03
• Ellana Mineral Foundation: French Vanilla
• Inuovi Foundation: 3Y

 Skin type: Combination of dry, normal and sensitive

Now let's get the super long review started! :)  Are you ready? I'm PhotoReady!

Revlon PhotoReady Foundation

Revlon PhotoReady Liquid Foundations says ---

For poreless, airbrushed skin in any light

• photochromatic pigments bend and diffuse light to help erase every flaw
• complete yet undetectable coverage
• soft luminous finish
• SPF20
• in shades from light to deep
• oil free, fragrance free

Available in: Shell, Nude, Natural Beige, Medium Beige, Cool Beige

AMW says ---

Pros

• nice, even coverage
• does not create white cast 
• has SPF20 and again, does not create white cast
• gives a hint of "glow", which others call it a bit of shimmer (I actually like this)
• no streaking
• no allergies or breakouts
• easy to blend with both brush and sponges
• can mix with other foundation (tried this with MAC SF Liquid Foundation and it works well)
• no weird scent
• held up really well on our weather, does not oil up
• works well on both dry and oily skin
• nice, simple packaging, comes in with a pump which is really nice!

Cons

•  NONE

Overall

This foundation is LOVE!  This is so far, the best drugstore liquid foundation I've tried, hands off!  I love this!  For the price and its Hi-Def factor, worth it!  I am singing praises for this foundation!  I've tried this on an oily skinned person and she loves it too!  I can totally see flawless!  Did I say love? 

Tips

• if you can cook and egg with your super oily face, use an oil control primer prior to foundation application
• instead of piling on setting powder or powder foundation, use oil blotting sheets instead
• use your favorite tool to apply: clean fingers, sponges or foundation brush, I choose my foundation brush then blend it with my Beauty Blender!
• never pump too much!  start with one pump then increase as needed to save up!
• always ask to test prior to purchasing, never test on your hands but on the jawline!

Will I repurchase?

Yes! Yes! Yes!

Where to purchase and how much?
At Revlon counters for Php925.00 (approx $20.00)

A close up look on how NUDE shade looks

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Revlon PhotoReady Powder

Revlon PhotoReady Powder says ---

For perfected, airbrushed skin in any light

• eliminates shine and evens skin tone
• photochromatic pigments bend and diffuse light to help erase every flaw
• mirco-refined ultra lightweight texture that's virtually undetectable
• SPF14

Available in: Fair/Light, Light/Medium, Medium/Deep

AMW says ---

Pros

• does not cake 
• does eliminate shine
• no weird scent
• no breakouts or allergies

Cons

• if you're looking for heavy coverage foundation type of powder foundation, this isn't the one!  (this product does state POWDER anyways)
• does not hold up for long if you have super oily skin
• packaging could get smaller! and mirror can always go bigger

• the brush that comes with this product isn't user friendly, takes a long time to apply the whole face

Overall

Can I just consider this the drugstore version of MAC Mineralized Skinfinish?  MAC lovers out there, don't condemn me!  :P  This is not the exact dupe for MAC's MSF powder I have to say, but if you're looking for similar function as MAC's MSF at a more affordable price, this can be the one.  Why?  Both works great for retouch, piling up never creates an overdone look nor iit cakes!  Both can even out skintone without the heavy coverage!

Tips

• use this with your favorite K-brush (kabuki brush).  Love how this instantly makes your skin more even and clean!
• if you're not a liquid foundation user, make sure to conceal your flaws with your preferred concealer prior too using the Revlon PhotoReady powder.
• do you have gorgeous skin to start with?  Use a sunblock, tinted moisturizer and set with this powder!  works really well!
• keep this free brush as I'll tell you later on where to use this instead! (ooopss, don't scroll down too fast!) :P

Will I repurchase?

Instead of MAC's MSF, this can actually do what a MAC MSF can!

Where to purchase and how much?
At Revlon counters for Php975.00 (approx $21.00)

 

A close up and swatch on 010 Fair/Light 

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Revlon PhotoReady 

Translucent Finisher

Revlon PhotoReady Translucent Finisher says ---

For poreless, airbrushed skin in any light

• universal translucent shade
• eliminates shine and sets makeup
• photochromatic pigments bend, reflect and diffuse light
• micro-refined, ultra lightweight texture that's virtually undetectable
• oil free, fragrance free

AMW says ---

Pros

• gives out a nice shimmer (if you're comfortable with a hint shimmer on face)
• best for highlight

Cons

• comes a bit shimmery on photos if flash is harsh 
• applying too much will show a bit shimmery/oily face  (be careful)
• again, packaging could get smaller! and mirror can always go bigger :P

Overall

Out of the 3 products from PhotoReady line, this is my least favorite and I think I can go ahead with PhotoReady liquid foundation and Powder.  If you are into slight shimmer, then this is quite convenient as this is a pressed version and easy to bring along for night makeup!

Tips

• be careful not to pile up too much, the face will look oily on photos once applied too much
• do not apply this all over your face, instead use this to highlight areas you'd like to highlight (ex. bride of the nose, under the eye area, cheekbones)
• instead of throwing the free brush that comes with this palette, use this brush for highlighting.  It's actually perfect for this purpose!

Will I repurchase?

No

Where to purchase and how much?

At Revlon counters for Php975.00 (approx $21.00)

A close up and swatch on 001 translucent

And now, this is it!  This is the shot of me using all 3 products!  No primer, no other forms of makeup used except moisturizer!  The shot without flash evens out my skin while the flash version has a certain glow on certain areas due to the translucent powder applied on areas I like to highlight!

After testing this trio and alternately using them on different combination, I came up with a conclusion, with the right choice of shade and right application, I agree to what Revlon PhotoReady says...there's no such thing as bad lighting!

Are you ready to pose on any angle with your current foundation?  Or do you want an HD makeup like Revlon's PhotoReady?  Tell me what you think!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Note from Author: Products are sent by company for review purposes.  The writer did not and will never receive any kind or form of payment for positive reviews.  The review has been done based on personal experiences.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Reviews: MAC Mineralized Blush in Superdupernatural

I've said it gazillion times, I am never updated with MAC Collections, because if I am, I'll go crazy with the purchases!  I"d rather steer away from it to stop myself from lemmings!  Funny how I've purchased several MAC products a tad bit late.  Why? 2 things: I'm big on savings and I'm a cheapo!  Oh...that's only ONE thing right? :P

A good friend of mine owns a brand new MAC Mineralized Blush in Superdupernatural and I'm glad she told me she's selling it! I purchased it in an instant...even faster than a speeding bullet!

I can go without eye makeup but I always make sure to put on a healthy color on my cheeks on regular days to bring out the healthy, natural glow!  A natural makeup lover like myself definitely gets sold with a blush shade called "Super Duper Natural"!  N loves N! Nikki loves Natural!

MAC Mineralized Blush in Super Duper Natural says ---

Superdupernatural is a rusty coral with a subtle sheen. It’s also rich in color and easy to layer for increased intensity.

AMW says ---

Pros

• very pigmented, a little goes a long way
• looks shimmery on pan but comes out semi-matte on cheeks
• no chunky glitters
• very pigmented
• this will last you forever!
• lasts longer than regular powder blushes!  I don't even need a cream blush underneath
• does not accentuate pores or zits!

Cons

•  not available anymore because it's LE

Overall

This blush is limited edition launched Holiday of 2009 under "Magic, Mirth and Mischief".   

This blush lives up to its name!  This is indeed very natural looking!  It's peachy in color and this actually reminded me of a lighter and gentler version of Nars Orgasm!  I like how pretty it looks on photos.  Lighter skin tone would enjoy this by lightly dusting this on the apples of your cheeks.  If you have darker skin tone, piling this up a bit would give a natural healthy glow!  This would work perfect for MAC NC20-40 skintone. Definitely a LOVE for me!

Tips

• want a natural healthy glow?  Use a stippling brush to apply it as highlight
• want to use this as blush?  Use a blush brush and apply on the apples of your cheeks blending outwards

• never drop your mineralized blush
• though the name is "superdupernatural" never over apply, due to its pigmentation, this can make you look like a clown
• over applied your blush? gently apply your regular powder foundation over the blush to lessen the pigmentation

Will I repurchase?

No as one is enough and this isn't available at MAC counters anymore.

Where to purchase and how much?
You can purchase this via friend, as this was part of the limited edition.

Here's a regular day with foundation, lipbalm 

and MAC's SuperDuperNatural!

Have a lovely start of the week!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Weekend Food Tripping at:: Teriyaki Boy

I know I've been to this restaurant a million times!  But I can't help include this on my weekend food tripping posts as I've ordered different dishes this time!  I have to share as the restaurant revamped its interior and even their menu changed!  They are definitely leaning on the hippier side!  How do I find their dishes?  Glad to report they maintain the quality and added more great tasting dishes!

Teriyaki Boy Philly Cheese Steak Roll

Php175.00 (approx $3.80)

I love how they infused the cheese on the roll and it still taste wonderful!
the cheese is just right and does not overpower the overall taste

Philadelphia Roll

Php210.00 (approx $4.57)
I love both Salmon and Cream cheese 

this is such a perfect combination

melts right into the mouth!

Sushi

Can't seem to remember the price! Sorry!

Chawan Mushi

Php85.00 (approx $2.00)

Tea cup steamed egg!  Love it!  Definitely something new

A great appetizer to look forward to!

Teriyaki Boy Chicken

Php195.00 (approx $4.24)

Bestseller! Can't dine at Teriyaki Boy without trying this!

Bento Boxes

Php350.00 (approx $7.61)

Choice of Teriyaki Chicken

Fried Fish Fillet

I believe they have Ika Fry and Shrimp Tempura too!

New Soup in Town!  Love it that they have more choices of soup! They serve it and pour the soup right in front of you which I find it quite appealing to the eyes!

I will update the name and the price next time as the Teriyaki Boy website is still under construction and I forgot about their names and prices.  But these 2 are worth the taste!  The taste buds are happy!

Beef Soup

Mixed Seafood

Teriyaki Boy is a casual dining.  They accept both cash and credit card and no service charge included in the bill! Their house tea is fabulous and the service isn't bad!

Ahhhhh, weekend food tripping is always fun!  I do love to eat and I believe you do too!  Because you're still reading this post!  Go ahead!  Reward yourself and eat anything you like!  It's weekend anyways!

Have a wonderful Sunday!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reads: For the Month of March

March is almost over!  Wow, how time flew by so quickly!  One thing that keeps me sane after a long day of work is reading...and I ain't talking about books!  I am referring to reading my online fix!  Beauty blogs!  My dearest sisters from afar have wonderful reads worth sharing!

------------------------------------------------

I am almost done with my L'Oreal Dermo-Expertise UV Perfect Long Lasting UVA/UVB Protector and I am scheduling myself to repurchase!  I am glad to read Beetrice's Review on the same sunblock and she's loving it as much as I did!!!

I have been a pink lipstick wearer for the past couple of days.  But after seeing Red Luscious Lips' wonderful sexy, vampy, red lips on Maybelline's Color Sensational in Summer Sunset post, I am definitely going back to my lipstick stash and search for the brightest red to turn up the summer heat!

Nails nails nails, I live and breathe nails! As a busy woman like myself, I like to create a nail art and have it dried as quickly possible.  When So Loverly gushed about Sally Hansen Dries Instantly 30 Second Top Coat, I am sold!  That's my next purchase!

With alll the events I've been attending, I should always look good and looking good means wearing nice clothes! There are some clothing items that are "Love at first Look" but the moment I peeked on the price tag and it's way beyond my budget, I walk away!  After reading My Women Stuff's post on "Do you calculate Cost per Wear when shopping?"  Maybe, its not bad to invest in a clothing I know will last me years!

I am not a mascara lover, I guess I get too disappointed with my own lashes I don't give a damn on them!  *pouts*  Skin Deco has written a Review + Comparison on Western Mascaras and I think anyone who loves mascara will be happy to read her post!

I am never updated with MAC Collections, I guess, I'm just too lazy to go to the counter to swatch!  But a dear dedicated MAC collection fan Lipglosseater does the dirty job!  Thanks to her I can easily shop online with her wonderful swatches on MAC Too Fabulous Collection, I hope its available locally soon as I'm lemming for Loud and Lovely gloss!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
Enjoy reading!

AMW Reviews: TBS Love Gloss

I haven't been a gloss person for the longest time because I have been sporting a natural lipstick look.  But the nice natural lips always turn into a parched-land!  Definitely a turn off right? So a gloss is definitely needed to save me from embarrassment!  

When The Body Shop came out with a gloss called The Love Gloss, I can't resist, such a cute name, with cute packaging!  Judging by the look of the packaging, it feels like Valentine's Day over again!  

The Body Shop Love Gloss says ---

Best if you want to create alluring lips with brilliant color and shine.  Best for all skin tones.

What this is designed to do:

• The specially designed heart-shaped brush has a reservoir that stores the gloss during application for an even layer of shiny color.
• Organic, virgin, cold-pressed Community Trade coconut oil softens and conditions skin.
• Community Trade cocoa butter is an excellent moisturizer that melts at body temperature, leaving skin soft and silky smooth.

Ingredients:

Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydroxystearic/Linolenic/Oleic Polyglycerides, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Beeswax, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Polyethylene Terephthalate, Trihydroxystearin, Acrylates Copolymer, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Passiflora Incarnata Seed Oil, Silica, Tocopheryl Acetate, Talc, Ammonium Glycyrrhizate, Flavor, Tin Oxide, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol. May Contain: Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Red 7 Lake, Red 28 Lake, Red 6, Blue 1 Lake].

AMW says ---

Pros

• non-sticky
• good staying power
• after the "super shine" fades, the lips ended up looking still moisturized!
• nice doe-shape (almost heart shape) applicator

• applicator is easy to clean or wipe as it's not too thick
• fool proof lip applicator, it'll be hard to mess up with this easy-to-apply applicator!

 

• very shiny yet natural looking, like you just licked your lips (sexy!)
• the more I use this, I actually felt my lips getting a bit softer and moisturized!

Cons

• others may not find this a con but I don't like the fruity scent, it smells like mango, pineapple...fruit salad? *hahaha*  I swear, others like this scent, I just don't! :)

Overall

If you are on a look out of a gloss that's non-sticky, moisturizes the lips and lasts, this is the one!  Gives a nice three dimensional look on a boring matte lipstick.

Tips

• always remember to exfoliate your lips once to twice a week for softer, more supple lips
• top this over your favorite lipstick for a nice, healthy shine
• wipe the wand after every use 
• never share this gloss with anybody else, use a disposable lip brush or wand if sharing is needed :P

Will I repurchase?
Yes!  In other shades!

Where to purchase and how much?
At local The Body Shop stores for Php650.00 (approx $14.13)

Easy to apply on lips with the heart shaped applicator

Applied on lips without lipstick or lip balm

Sorry, my lips are naturally pigmented, 

but this gloss is definitely clear :P

Have a wonderful lip smacking Saturday!!!
I'll be off to prettify someone today!  So excited!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!