AMW 2010 Memories + Happy New Year!!!

Dear AMW Readers:
2010 started off with a bang!  I remembered sharing to everyone how challenging 2009 was for me, a lot of you wished me for a better 2010 and I want to thank everyone because the well-wishes sent my way did came true!  My 2010 has been like a roller coaster, just like every other years, but just like Mr. AMW wrote on his Christmas Letter to me...

"You've worked so hard for the year 2010 and you deserve all the blessings..."

Yes, I worked extra hard for the year 2010 and what inspires me to move on are my families, friends and of course..Mr. AMW himself!  Here's a quick flashback on how God is so good for giving me such a wonderful year!

Series of Dollface Makeup Workshops

Thanks Pearl of Dollface Cosmetics for entrusting to me her loyal clients, and thanks to all my students for signing up and for being such a wonderful students!

First Dollface Personal Makeup Workshop

Second Dollface Personal Makeup Workshop

Dollface Seminar at The Event Factory for 40+ students

My First Fashion Styling Challenge

Promod's "Je Ne Sais Quo" Style

As you all know, AskMeWhats has always been a beauty blog rather than a fashion blog!  That's why when I got an invite from our dear friends from Stratworks to join a fashion styling contest for Promod, I was game!  The game sounds even better when I can bring one "fashionista" friend to help me with the styling challenge!  It was a day filled with fun and laughter!

I want to congratulate my dearest friends Shen and Tara for winning the challenge!  They did great and I am so glad to share this experience with dear friends!

First getaway with Bloggers

at Neutrogena Healthy Summer Skin Event at Anvaya Cove

It was a whole day event for bloggers to experience the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock.  It was a full day of food, fun activities and of course learning about skin protection against the harmful rays of the sun!

A Road Trip of a Lifetime!

Vaseline Road Trip Experience

When I got an invite to take part on a Road Trip of a Lifetime, I thought it was just like regular trips I have encountered in the past, but I was wrong!  It was one experience that gave me a huge impact for the year 2010!  Aside from learning how beautiful our country is, I got to dig deeper on our culture at the same time, get to know a lot of people from different background!  They have all became my friends and I have to thank Vaseline for picking me as part of this activity!   

It was also a first for me to be part of Vaseline TV Commercials, and it was also a first to see my face on huge local magazines with fellow bloggers Hannah and Ada!

A summary of our Roadtrip in a video plus behind-the-scenes! :)

My Dream Travel Came True

My Adventures in Seoul Korea!

I've always been stalking YouTube videos on Seoul food, read Seoul Travel Blogs and of course, stalk on Korean Cosmetics!  I've always knew I'll be setting food on Seoul someday but I did not expect it to happen so fast!  My wish to see Seoul in real life, not only in Korean series came true!  I also had a great time live reporting on my whereabouts because of the wonderful hotel I've stayed with free internet access!  Now shall I wish for a next Dream Travel?  (Hint: Another Land of cuteness still!)

Me, being a piggy, paid off!

Manila's Signature Dishes 2010

I must have done something right, or shall I say, I must have eaten so much and it turn out to be quite obvious that I'm not only into anything fashionable or beautiful, but I'm also into EATING!  Weekend Food Tripping after the other, I was quite lucky to be chosen as one of the blogger to give Manila's Signature Dishes a try!  It was a fun experience to food trip on several restaurants around the Metro, try different dishes I seldom order on my mind!  Thanks to Unilever Food Solutions (UFS), the restaurants part of UFS, Nuffnang and to the food bloggers I've got to meet and dine with...I ended a year not only with a bang but 5 pounds heavier!  The statement, by the way is not a complaint, the food are all worth it! 

First Time Judging for Fashionably Fun Award

Crissa Dance Synergy - The Final Showdown

I am not a Simon Cowell But Simon never judged for Crissa, I did! *conceited mode, lol*  It was fun, it was intense, but I got to show my "eye for fashion" in this event!  Thanks Crissa for believing in me!

(thanks to Tin Iglesias and her Mom for the photo)

AMW is a Finalist for Fashion and Beauty Blog

I am not into awards and I don't even think of being nominated of anything!  Well, I did wished for "Best Daughter" award but of course, my mom will give it to me without doubt and I'll share it to my sister anyways so it loses the point of competition!  *laughs*  

I have to be honest, I felt really good and happy that my blog got nominated this year!  Thank you, thank you, and did I say thank you? 

AMW Goes International?

When I was included in a US website and a magazine from Singapore, it was such a huge compliment and achievement on my part and I wasn't asking for anything more....

Top Fifty Stylish Beauty & Makeup Blogs

Project Smitten (Singapore Magazine)

Thanks Renee of Beautyfool for the magazine scan and for feature AMW!  I actually got the hardcopy of this magazine, I want to thank Pam and her brother for purchasing this magazine for me!

Recently, my nail art caught another magazine's attention, and it was from India, this year has been a great year not only for me but also for my nails!!! 

Contributor on StyleSpeak Magazine (India)

2010 Makeup Clients

They are the reason why prettifying people is my profession, they put their full trust in me to beautify them on their special day or whatever special occasion they are going to attend!  These are the wonderful clients who gave not only their trust but friendship!  Thank you dear AMW clients! 

(Note from author: Sorry, not everyone is included in this collage)

It has been a wonderful year right?  Of course, I have to admit, it wasn't all roses and sunshine, I've had my fair share of challenges but I opt to share and see the positive side of the year rather than dwell on the negative!  Life is too short to be sad and grumpy!  It takes a huge effort to remain cheerful but hey, if I survived all the hardships, I know you can and you will too! 

If you are currently suffering from personal problems and stress, just look at ME as an example, I went through HELL and I am a SURVIVOR!  So you know you can too ok?

Out of everything I've written above, the best that happened for the year 2010 is not about money or fame!  The best for AMW for the year 2010?

My mom survived a traumatic experience 

and she is getting better!
A whole lot better!

Thank you 2010 for the life lessons, thank you family for the support, thank you dear friends for the unending love and support and for listening to all my blabbing whether in person or online!  And most of all, thank you Mr. AMW for always love me no matter how crazy I can get!

Thank you AMW Readers for always checking my site and for reading my thoughts!
Happy New Year everyone!
Cheers for a Prosperous and Healthy 2011!!!

What are you thankful for this year?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: GoodSkin Labs Smooth-365

As seen on "AMW Discoveries for the Year 2010", this tube of GoodSkin Labs Smooth-365 got in my list of wonderful discoveries for this wonderful year!  I have to admit, I wasn't that intrigued to give this product a test and I actually waited until I've got nothing else exciting to try before I cave in.  Thank goodness I did before the year ends, because this product is a staple "step" in my morning skincare routine!  I actually use this before my BB cream application, set with a pressed powder, and I'm set to go!  

Why do I like this product?  Read on...and you'll find out!

GoodSkin Labs Smooth-365 says ---

Intensive Clarity + Smoothing Peptide Serum

This peptide-infused, all over face serum helps skin amplify its natural collagen production while instantly blurring the look of lines and wrinkles for visibly less lined skin.  Immediately upon application, skin's clarity, tone and texture are instantly improved which allows makeup to be applied seamlessly for a flawless finish.

Immediately:

• 71% measurable improvement in skin clarity in clinical studies.
• After 4 weeks: 3 out of 4 subjects felt their skin was velvety smooth. 
• After 8 weeks: 52% visible reduction in lines and wrinkles in clinical studies.

Key Ingredients

• Clarity-promoting extracts : perfect skin tone for more uniform, translucent complexion.
• Optical Diffusers: instantly blurs imperfections, lines and wrinkles
• Power Peptides: boost collagen production to help keep skin less lined.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Wonderful squeeze type tube which makes it hygienic! Also easy to tote around even during travel.

• Does not have the heavy, silicon/primer feel.
• Great make-up base, found myself retouching less!
• Skin feels smooth after application.
• Overall skin condition looks and feel much better after a month of usage.  
• Skin feels really soft immediately! 
• A little goes a long way, spreads easily.
• Helps in foundation application to go on smoothly.
• Does not dry out my dry skin or even oil up oily skin!

Cons

• Not for people allergic to silicon based products.
• If not blended well, white marks can be seen on face, so be very careful! 
• For people who aren't used to adding "serum" in their skincare routine, this is a tedious extra step for them. 
• If you have super dry, flaky skin, you cannot depend on this product alone, need to follow up with moisturizer!

Overall

I've included this on my AMW Discoveries for the year 2010 because I love this product!  I religiously use this every morning and prefer to use a non-silicon based serum for nighttime so I skip this at night!  Once a day is enough for me to see the results I want for a serum.

Keep in mind that this is a SERUM and an added moisturizer may be needed especially for drier skin individuals!

Tips

• Warm the product on hand then gently spread a thin layer all over the face and neck.
• Make sure to massage the product gently all over to prevent product buildup.
• Wash face well at the end of the day.
• Leave on skin for a couple of minutes prior to moisturizer application.
• If you have oily skin and prefer not to use moisturizer, this is enough as a make-up base and for a product that gives the benefit of smooth skin.
• If skin irritations occur like rashes or itchiness, STOP usage IMMEDIATELY!
• If you have sensitive skin or you are currently using a skincare regimen recommended by dermatologist, you can check with your dermatologist first before adding another skincare regimen!

Will I repurchase?
Yes!  My favorite serum + makeup base to date!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes silicon base primer PLUS the added benefits of smoothness and skin clarity.

Where to purchase and how much?
At Watson's store for Php2,000 (approx $45.00)  for tube.

The lightweight texture of GoodSkin Labs Smooth-365

Blended on hand, skin instantly feels smooth

I applied a thin layer of GoodSkin Labs Smooth-365 around 7:00am and this photo was taken at our office Christmas dinner at around 9:00pm and my foundation powder stayed!  We dined in the non-airconditioned area.  

(Note: Photo taken as it is, used Photoshop for watermarking and cropping.)

I may not be a primer user nowadays as I am depending on my trustee BB Creams, I thought it's enough, but adding this up on my skincare regimen makes a huge difference!  I retouch less!

Are you a serum user?  Any secret you have to make your makeup stay longer?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Product sent by company for review.  The author is not affiliated with the company and all reviews are done base on author's personal experiences.  Please purchase at your own discretion!)

AMW Reviews: Purederm Green Tea Collagen Mask

Ugh, I've been on and off with my facial mask duties!  I know, I told you guys how I've discovered facial masks to be vital with that "extra boost" of brightness and moisture, but every time I plan to lay down for a good 20-30 minutes, something will always come up!  Either the dog ate my homework, or my dog pooped on my face! (Oh!  Sorry, those are old-school excuses, and that last excuse does not even sound right!!!)  *teeeheee*

Seriously, there's always something more important for me to do, so it's always "next time me time!" 

I have a couple more masks to try and a lot of purchases I made from Korea so expect to see more of them for the coming year!  For now, I've tried another facial mask from Purederm!  I am bound to grab on sheet masks because it's quick, easy and mess-free!

Purederm Green Tea Collagen Mask

in very cute packaging!

Purederm Green Tea Collagen Mask says ---

Bask in the benefits for green tea extracts, collagen and vitamin E for your skin, keeping it more moisturized that ever.  Uses 100% natural pulp sheet is non-irritating and provides closer adhesion to the skin.

AMW says ---
Pros

• Easy tear packaging

• Clear instructions at the back portion. Manufacturing date also clearly printed at the back portion.

• Smells great
• Enough product and the sheet is quite moist but not super wet!
• Instantly moisturize skin.
• Moisture stays until the next day.
• Sheet mask size is just right!
• 
  

Cons

• None!  Just the fact that I have to do this on a weekly basis!  

Overall

This is one of my favorite Purederm Mask out of the bunch!  I like the fact that this seriously moisturize my skin "instantly" and the moisture stays until the next day!  I tried this mask on the day my face is drying up and my skin was flaking a bit especially on the sides of my nose.  After 30 minutes of this, skin flaking disappeared!

Tips

• Do not exceed the stated time of treatment.  20-30minutes is enough.
• Relax by laying down closing your eyes while you have your mask on!
• Throw the sheet mask after each usage, never recycle!
• If itchiness or skin irritations occur, stop using product immediately and wash your face with gentle face cleanser.

Will I repurchase?

Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes the instant boost of moisture and wants the brighten up dull skin!

Where to purchase and how much?
At Watson's or local beauty stores for Php49.75 (approx $1.00).

Green Tea Collagen Mask 

looks like this on packaging

The Sheet Mask

Fits right on my face with the right amount of product, 

does not drip and the sheet is not too dry, just right!

I know it's not a great idea to show my face in public with sheet masks like that, but hey, aren't you used to that face?  Come on, you can stop laughing now!  Seriously...you're hurting my feelings.... *lol*! :P

What's your favorite sheet mask to date?
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Product sent by company for review.  The author is not affiliated with the company and all reviews are done base on author's personal experiences.  Please purchase at your own discretion!)

AMW Discoveries for the Year 2010

Dear AMW Readers:

Happy end of 2010 and cheers to a better 2011!!!  I had a wonderful year because my mom is getting better and this was the year I get to meet more people---  bloggers, readers, etc... and a lot of them turned into real-life friends!  The year may be ending but I want to share some product discoveries for the year 2010!  I am excited for more products coming up for the coming years and I can't wait to share the discoveries with you.

(Note from Author: You can click on the name of the product to go to link wherein you may find details or reviews of the said product)
 

Pressed Powder Discoveries ---

These are 2 of the pressed version face powders I've been toting along with me whatever bag I use!  They are staple for retouch!

Neutrogena Fine Fairness
 

Revlon Age Defying 2-Way Foundation with Botafirm

Face Masks Discoveries ---

Various Facial Masks 

This year has been a facial mask year for me!  Remember my I wonder moment when I asked you if you use facial masks?  My answers is...I do!  I think it was because I was gifted many facial masks from beauty blogger friends and at the same time, I've been sent a couple of face masks for reviews!  Let's not forget, I hoarded on a lot of facial masks during my Korea trip because they are very inexpensive there!

Brush Brands Discoveries ---

Aside from my MAC, Suesh, Everyday minerals (EDM), Ecotools, Essense of Beauty (EOS) brushes that I came to review on the year 2009, there are more brush brands that I'm glad to know of and I am proud to say, these brushes can be easily purchased locally and they are definitely made with quality and the price is just right for the smart shoppers out there!  

Sigma Professional Brushes

Leow Cornell 38-Maxine Mop

Bedazz Stippling Brush, Bedazz Angled Brush and Bedazz Blending Brush

Charm Pro

I have so many brush queries and it seems like a lot of you are getting to learn the importance of owning a good set of makeup brush for a good make-up application!  So proud of you!   What's the best?  It all boils down to your usage, your makeup style, your budget and of course, your overall preferences  I strongly suggest you to check these brushes out personally via friends or probably get to know their bazaar schedules to see them up close and personal before you spend your hard earned money!  Agree? Agree!

Mascara Discoveries ---

Everyone knew how lazy I was when it comes to mascara, I can go for full made-up look minus the mascara!  I guess its just disappointing to apply coats and coats of mascaras and see no difference at all! 

This year, there are 2 mascara brands that changed my mind, I am reaching out for mascara more often because of the gorgeous effect it gives to my short, puny lashes!!!

Maybelline The Magnum Volum Express Mascara

Etude House Proof 10 Henna Mascara

Inexpensive Eyeliner Discovery ---

I am a gel liner user for years because of the fact that it stays the whole day without smudging!  Given a choice, I'd rather use pencil eyeliners but I steer clear from it because it tends to smudge and disappears in the middle of the day!  

I've found a good eyeliner brand that stays in the name of Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes but I chose to keep them inside my Makeup Traincase for clients instead of using them for myself.  (I'm a cheapo that way) *laughs* 

When I was invited by the good people of Elianto Philippines to check out their shop in Trinoma,  it was a perfect time for me to get to know more about their products other than nail polishes!  It was because of that I got to know Elianto Stay On Eyeliner pencil which I found really inexpensive and works like a very expensive eyeliner pencil!

Makeup Brush Cleanser discoveries ---

I've always been a smarty pants when it comes to money saving!  That's why I seldom purchase makeup cleansers around as I make my own "Home Made Brush Cleanser"!  But recently, I have been doing a lot of makeup gigs wherein I need to spritz on my brush with a brush cleanser after every client and I came to realize that my homemade brush cleanser does not dry up as fast as those commercially sold brush cleanser!  Don't get me wrong, I still use my homemade brush cleanser but it's a different story when I'm on a strenuous makeup gig!  Here are 2 products worth looking into...

Parian Makeup Brush Cleanser

HD Makeup Quick Drying Professional Brush Cleaner Sanitizer

**I actually prefer to alternate both brands because my nose tends to get too tired of a scent if used for prolong period of time, both scents are acceptable and I like the quick drying effect of these two, lets not forget, how clean my brushes are after several spritz and swirl!

For the Men Discovery ---

My husband loves the L'Oreal Men Expert line and he will help me out reviewing more of their Men Expert products!

Anti-Aging Moisturizer Discoveries ---

I am loving how certain products can keep your skin smooth at the same time blur a bit of your facial lines!  There are 2 products I call "winner" for 2010!  One is not made for the mature skin but I am saving it up for my mature skinned clients because it really works!

GoodSkin Labs Tri-Aktiline Total Face Instant Line Reducing Moisturizer

GoodSkin Labs Smooth-365 Intensive Clarity + Smoothing Peptide Serum (review coming up soon!)

Inexpensive Eye Primer Discovery ---

I have been a believer of Urban Decay and Too Faced Shadow Insurance eye primers!  I do not use them much as my eyes does not oil up at all!  Thanks to fellow beauty bloggers who raves on Etude House Proof 10 Eye Primer, I was able to grab some during my Korean trip and found this to be inexpensive and effective!

Etude House Proof 10 Eye Primer

Eye Concealer Discovery ---

There are a lot of concealer discoveries for the year 2010!  The reason why I included this product because this is one product I haven't taken the time of the day to even look at it way back it was launched!  This product deserves a space in this post because I found this to work for any type of skin!  Whether you have dry, oily or normal skin, this gives out a very natural "brightening" effect on your under eye area!  I also like using this to brighten up the brow bone area, the bridge of the nose and the corners of the mouth for that very fresh, well-rested look!

The Body Shop Lightening Touch

Inexpensive Eyebrow Pencil Discovery ---

I seldom use eyebrow pencils when it comes to makeup gigs because using a brow powder and a brush is quicker and mixing up the right shade of brows is easier! I can mix light and medium brow powder to get the shade I want compared to owning gazillions of different shades of eyebrow pencils!

Eyebrow pencils last longer though so it was a great discovery for 2010 to find good and inexpensive eyebrow pencils via Korean Brands!  I have a whole lot more Korean branded eyebrow pencils to test but the first brand did not fail me!

Tears Line and Mode Autobrow

Hair Treatment Discovery ---

I have tried so many products on hair treatment, out of all, the one that deserves a space here is quite pricey.  I tried to choose the most inexpensive brand as possible but when it comes to immediate effect, this one is the ONLY product that gives me the immediate effect and prolong moisture my hair needs.

Yes, the brand is from Kerastase, the leading hair care brand!  Out of many Kerastase variants I've tried, I've finally found THE ONE that works and suits the needs of my hair!

Kerastase Nutri Thermique

Though most of the variants work, this one is the best because it immediately lessen the frizziness of my hair and the effect was there for more than weeks!  I am referring to the at-home-treatment mask, I did not use any special equipment but I just left this on my hair for a good 5 minutes! 

Body Scrub Discovery ---

I am not a fan of body scrubs, everyone who reads my blog knows that!  My skin is very dry to start with and using anything that's rough and scrubs off the first layer of my skin is a turn off for me!

Kustie Strawberry Body Butter and Scrub

When I was offered to try Kustie, the fact that I can give away some products for my readers gave me the push to say yes to try out this product (yes, I love you all dearly).  Good deeds brings back good stuff!  I ended up loving the body scrub because it moisturizes my skin on first scrub and using the butter after the scrub is a match made in heaven!

Tech Discovery ---

I've always hated touch screen phones because I panic at times when I text and I memorized the regular text keyboard for the longest time and changing it to "point point point" "dot dot dot" on screen is never sexy for me!  But this year, its all about change and moving out of the comfort zone!

Samsung I5700 Galaxy Spica

IPhone 3gs

This was gifted to me and I am actually liking this because it's easy for me to receive and send emails wherever I go!  Where did my first touch screen go?  To Mr. AMW!!!  Its safe with him together with the rest of the gadgets he lug around wherever he goes!

IPod Touch 4th Generation

It was difficult to think about another tech-related gift for Mr. AMW!  Thanks to my Twitter friends as I was able to finalize my Christmas gift for the best AMW supporter and fan of all time -- his name is...Keith!  He told me it wasn't a necessity, but seeing the huge smile on his face every time he watch his favorite Cartoon series, update his emails when WIFI is available, and play his favorite Apple games....it's all worth it!

Random Discovery ---

A tiny product can be deceiving to the eyes but it's a major discovery I should have discovered years ago!  I don't like changing my bra straps into clear as its a huge hassle especially when I'm in a hurry in the morning!  With this new product that I've found in the name of...

Intimate Bra Converter

Wearing razorbacks during summer is as easy as 123!

Huge *WHEW*!!!! I managed to share some of the discoveries I made for the year 2010!  I can't believe it took me almost an hour doing so!  *laughs* Oh well, its worth sharing and I hope you can share me your Ultimate Discovery for the year 2010!

It could be food, clothing, make-up, skincare or anything under the sun and moon!  *lol*
I'd love to hear from you!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!