AMW Reviews: GSL Z-Pore

The top selling GoodSkin Lab product selling over 10,000 units since launch in early April, 2011.  Actual sales exceeded the sales plan for the U.S. more than 5 times the original plan.

This must be a wonderful product!  I can't say it is unless I give it a try!  So after some time of usage and testing it to other people, I'm ready to share if the top selling GSL product is worth purchasing or not!

Are you ready?

GSL Z-Pore says ---

A lightweight pore perfector that smoothes on skin to immediately hide pores and impart a natural-looking, velvety smooth, flawless finish. The result? Minimized pores and a perfected complexion with or without makeup – instantly and all day!

How does it work? Special silicone polymers, optical diffusers and mica, a mattifying agent, instantly reduce the appearance of pores, providing a soft matte finish to the skin. At the same time, volatiles and film formers deliver optimal skin adhesion providing for all day wear. Our special cocktail of conditioning silicone, vitamin E and non-drying lauryl lysine powder make this formula non-drying.

Size: .68 fl. oz./ 20ml

AMW says ---

Pros

• I love all packaging made by GSL, this is no exception.  Straightforward easy-squeeze tube with pointed tip.

• A little is enough to blur out lines and fill-in pores.
• Has a tiny hint of "nude" shade that does not give a "white" faced finish at the same time can even out the skin color.
• Has matte finish which means the product can reduce shine.
• Has good control oil.
• No weird scent.
• No allergies nor skin irritations.

Cons

• People allergic to silicone may find this a con.

Overall

This is one product I go to not for long-term effect but mostly on its immediate effects especially when I do makeup!  If I'm not in a hurry and wants improved skin texture, I would use this together with Tri-Aktiline Total Face, Filextra Facial Revolumizing Treatment with Collagen or the Smooth-365 Intensive Clarity+Smoothing Peptide Serum.

Tips

• Use clean fingers in application.  
• Always start by using small amount then increase if needed.
• Best applied on nose, forehead, cheeks and chin. 
• Wash face properly at night.
• Do you have sensitive skin?  Do a patch test prior to applying this all over your face.
• Work fast and blend well before you proceed with your makeup application.
• If you have super oily skin, an oil-control primer may still be needed. 

Will I repurchase?
Definitely yes!  This is very useful for clients who have large looking pores.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Girls or boys who have obvious pores.

Where to purchase and how much?
Z-PORE is available at selected Watsons Personal Care Stores, Beauty by SM Department Stores and Marionnaud Mall of Asia at Php1,600.00 (approx $36.36).

A tiny squeeze of GSL Z-Pore

Cream texture that's not watery

As I quickly blend the product, you can see a patch that goes matte, brighter and lines on my hand blurred out.  (Note: not totally disappeared, but blurred out.)

Since I do not have obvious looking pores (due to my dry skin), and I do not want to waste such wonderful product.  I take this along with me on gigs and use this on clients who suffers from large looking pores at the same time, those who suffers blackheads.  After foundation application, the skin usually looks uneven up close so I gave this an ultimate test!  After prepping the client's skin, I apply a good amount of GSL Z-Pore on areas that needed the "blurring", let it stay for a couple of minutes then continue with foundation.  Here's a before and after shot. :)

Photo of a Client

(Keep in mind that the after photo has foundation on 
but application was easier with GSL Z-Pore.)

GSL's Z-Pore does work and it's actually part of my makeup kit which I don't mind using on clients because I only want the best for them!  I do check with my clients if they are allergic to certain ingredients.

What's your secret pore minimizer?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(Product sent for review.  Opinions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Makeover: Prenup Shoot Inside the Yacht

Today's makeover is pretty special to me!  Rica, was one of the first few clients I got when I was just starting out on makeup!  After years, she still remembers me and asked me to do her makeup for their pre-nup pictorial!  Thanks Rica!

It was a lovely day and being part of their pre-nup shoot was fun! 

Setup by the Bay...

Her makeup was done inside a Yacht at RealShip Corp.

Fun yet challenging all at the same time!  It was really windy so a super steady hands and fast reflexes were needed! 

Rica's Before and After Photo

To be honest, she has this gorgeous smile that could lit any room!  It wasn't hard to prettify her as this lady is already gorgeous in and out!  Perfect example of what AskMeWhats -- the blog is striving for!

Rica left me in charge of her makeup looks!  She's very comfortable as we chatted while doing her makeup!  She told me I can do anything I want and I've decided to create a natural, fresh-looking makeup because I don't want to hide her beauty but enhance it instead!

Her skin is well moisturized prior to makeup application, all I need to do is to even out her skin color and apply foundation that matches her neck and body. 

A pink lipstick is a wonderful touch for that "playful" look!  Which, by the way, I changed it as the shoot goes on...

Oh!  I got the liberty to apply falsies for her!  It's going to be 2nd time for her in her entire lifetime!  I am quite confident with the lashes I've used!  The ES Lashes with band that's flexible and doesn't poke anyone's eye!  It doesn't feel heavy too so it's perfect even for first-time false lashes wearers!

For the hair:

She's got healthy locks and I want the newly "colored" hair to be enhanced by creating big curls!  This will create a very sexy look in an instant!

In Tagalog, it's definitely "TALIKO-GENIC" type of hairstyle. *lol*

AMW and the lovely couple

I also applied a bit of makeup to the groom-to-be!  

Both of them look gorgeous but I look like trash! 

Who cares, they are more important than anyone else in this makeover :D

I can't wait to do more makeovers and share to you my experiences!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Nail Art Tutorial: Shoes on my Nails

Happy Monday everyone!  How was your weekend?  Mine was half super busy and half super relaxed!  I do know how to relax!  I was able to sleep really well,  eat and enjoy a very good cup of coffee!  This girl knows how to relax!  *winks*

I'm all ready and hyper to start this week!  Today, I will be sharing a nail art tutorial inspired by these....

Remember those original Converse Shoes that everyone seems to be wearing during *coughs* ahem...my time? This is my super childish version, nevertheless, it brightened up my day and I  hope it did for you too! :)

*singing* "These shoes are made for walking..." (on the tune of These Boots are made for walking).

AMW Reviews: BlenderBottle

If you are following me on Twitter, you've probably read about the BlenderBottle which I use to make my "home made" Frappuccino and fruit juices!  

Are you scratching your head now?  A BlenderBottle simply looks like this....

No, your eyes are not playing tricks on you, the BlenderBottle includes a regular bottle and a tiny patented BlenderBall wire whisk.

BlenderBottle says ---

Tired of sifting lumps through your teeth? There's a better way. The patented BlenderBottle® is the best-selling portable mixer. Why? Because it works! 

The patented BlenderBall® wire whisk moves freely throughout the bottle as you shake it, mixing the thickest protein shakes, nutrition supplements, and more with ease. Perfect in the kitchen, at the office, at the gym, when you travel, or on the go. Now you can mix it smooth—anytime, anywhere!

AMW says ---

Pros

• Very handy.  Imagine going to the gym with your favorite protein shakes! 
• Bottle is BPA free.
• No leak, the bottle is sealed tightly.
• Price is actually good!
• The bottle does not leave a weird plastic taste or smells weird after every use! 
• Easy to clean.  Even the patented wire whisk is so easy to clean!
• Lid seals really tight!  No spillage.

• Available in variety of colors.
• I like the fact that the bottom part fits any "car drink holders".
• Can mash up ingredients to make it lump free!  
• Whatever blended will be smoother in texture.  We tried mixing eggs and milk and we had a really smooth scrambled eggs!
• The patented wire whisk is seriously powerful!  Here's a proof!  I tried the BlenderBottle with slices of papaya.  My dad-in-law and Mr. AMW votes for "NO, it won't work!" I was the only one who had full faith in the BlenderBottle and it didn't fail me!  With just a couple of "shake! shake! shake!"  mashed papaya anyone?  *lol*  --- Eureka Moment!  Perfect tool to mash food for the kiddies!

Cons

• Cannot use this for hot liquid as pressure may build up and cause the cap to open and spray contents.
• If you're not into protein shakes, fruit shakes or even cooking!  The BlenderBottle could be useless for you and will probably end up as a...well...water bottle!  *laughs*

Overall
I personally like this to mix my fruit drinks as it comes out with a "frothy" texture. 

Tips

• Perfect for --- Protein shakes, Nutrition drinks, Scrambled eggs, Omelets, Meal replacement drinks, Salad dressing mixes, Smoothies, Dressings, Gravy, Pancake batter.
• Wash before use!
• If you plan to melt your hot drinks like coffee, mix with tiny amount of water first then fill up with a normal temperature water before you start shaking the BlenderBottle.  Add ice afterwards.
• If you plan to prepare cold drinks, include the eyes once you're done using the BlenderBottle and poured the ingredients onto your cup!  OR!  If you have the time and energy, include crushed ice inside and shake!

Will I repurchase?
Yes, my brother who's a gym-fanatic will appreciate this for his protein shakes!

To whom do I recommend this to?

I personally think the best person to use this are people who loves to cook, people who loves to drink nutrition drinks or are into shakes!  

Where to purchase and how much?

Available to Toby Sportshouse, Dimesione and any Cris Sports Outlets.  Php699.00 (approx $16.00)  for 20oz capacity and Php799.00 (approx $18.16) for 28oz capacity.

My Frappuccino "AMW Style" recipe

• 1 x 3-in-1 coffee of your choice
• 1/2 pack of Swiss Miss or any chocolate powder
• Milk (not on photo)
• Cream (not on photo)

 

Mix chocolate powder and 3-in-1 coffee and dissolve it by adding a very tiny amount of hot water.  Once the ingredients are dissolved, add your choice of milk (at this point, it isn't hot anymore).  Drop the BlenderBottle patented wire whisk and shake!  Open the flap cap and add on your choice of cream! 

SHAKE like you really mean it this time and pour them out on your favorite mug and add LOADS of ice!

Oh!  I can also do this with fruit juices! 

Do you think you need BlenderBottle in your life?
If yes?  What will you use it for?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Mis Cosas' The Crayola Carry Alls

I have so many fold-able bags I tell you and I use them alternately and I can't even tell you which one is my favorite as the function of each are almost the same as the others.  

There's a new fold-able anti-plastic bag that's added into my "anti-plastic bag" collection, will this join the "they all look the same" stack? 

 

The Crayola Carry Alls says ---

Starting this year, there were already some cities and provinces who have already followed the anti-plastic bag law in the Philippines. Hence these reusable bags are simply the best and most hip alternative to the plastic bag. They’re not only for the groceries or the market, they’re for everywhere. You can carry it in your hand or over your shoulder. It holds 2-3 plastic grocery bags of stuff.

Size opened: 15" width x 25" height x 6" depth
Size closed: 6" x 6" inches with wristlet 7" diameter
Material: Diamond Ripstop Taffeta
Available colors: 

 **photo taken from Mis Cosas website

AMW says ---

Pros

• Available in various colors!  
• Can put a lot of stuff inside.
• Made of quality material and I've used this several times on my makeup stuff during gigs, so far, it's still looking good.
• The handle is not sewn in a way that it's easily ripped!  I like it that it looks like a regular plastic bag.
• Using these help saves the environment!
• It has an extra pouch wherein you can easily store the bag and not have it crumpled or messed up inside with the rest of your things.
• Washable.
• External pouch has a wrist-let which makes it easy for me to hang it on my bag organizer for it not to get lost easily!  I lost a couple of similar bags like these.
• Some may like to use the extra pouch to store "feminine napkin" or "tissue".

Cons

• I would appreciate it if the outer pouch is attached to the bag itself!  

Overall

This is already a staple inside my bag!  I also use this during gigs and insert my foundation and brushes as I find it easier to have them all in one place.  

I like it that it's made with quality, the material used is obviously of good quality . 

Tips

• To get a cheaper rate, you can purchase together with 3 of your friends as wholesale price is Php900.00 ($20.45) for 4!
• Make this a permanent thing to carry inside your bag and if you're going for quick groceries, please take this out and try not to ask for plastic bags anymore!
• Wash this at least once a week or as soon as the bag gets dirty.
• For the outer pouch not to get lost, I immediate insert the outer pouch inside the bag itself once I use it.

Will I repurchase?

Yes!  Beige is a good, neutral color for any outfit I wear but I wouldn't mind getting other loud colors like Red and Pink!

To whom do I recommend this to?
EVERYONE!

Where to purchase and how much?
You can purchase these in various "crayola colors" for Php250.00 (approx $5.68) + Shipping Cost each in THIS WEBSITE.

The Crayola Carry Alls in Beige

Carried on my shoulder

 If the stuff inside aren't too heavy, 

you can carry this on your arm

Very Spacious.

I can easily take a peek on what's inside

and grab the things I need.

If I check your bag right now, do you carry an anti-plastic bag?
Do share to us which brand and what color is it?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Crumpler Gives: The Carrot, Noose and Limpet --- Winner Announcement!

Thanks everyone for joining Crumpler Gives: The Carrot, Noose and Limpet giveaway!  I had fun reading your "initial thoughts" on the title of my giveaway!  We do have different perception on different things and it's fun how creative a lot of us can get! :)

Finally, one winner is picked via my favorite Fruit Machine!  I promise you that this random organizer has been clicked only ONCE...after checking the entry and I made sure there's no duplicates, I am ready to announce the lucky winner!

Congratulations to ----

Joni Gonzales!

Joni, you are the lucky winner of The Carrot, Noose and Limpet!  I will email you for mailing information and I will try to send the prizes as soon as I can !

To the rest, there will be more giveaways coming up soon!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Readers' Corner: My Day and Night Regimen

A reader once asked me what my present skincare regiment is!  To be honest, I haven't been using much skincare products as I always try to finish up or use at least 3/4 of a product before I move on to the next.  I don't like to confuse my skin and I would like to see the effectiveness of a product before I move on to the next (if needed).

I am proud to announce that I have finished my Pond's Flawless White products which I started March 2011 and Finished it around June of 2011.  From then, I've been using the products mentioned in this post and it's time to reveal the skincare regimen that's helping my skin stay *hopefully* the way I want it.

My skincare regimen is quite straightforward, I just need a cleanser, sometimes toner, serum/essence, eye cream then moisturizer.  I did not include toners as I don't use them regularly.

Daytime Products ---

• Clinique Turnaround Concentrate
• Clinique Superdefense SPF25 PA+++
• L'Occitane Immortelle Harvest Eye Balm

 Clinique Turnaround Concentrate

I've been using this for a month now and the reason why I put this up on my AM regimen is because of it's silky, lightweight texture that I can easily pile up my makeup without the heavy feel.  I believe this concentrate can be used both day and night but I like injecting new regimen slowly (but surely).

Here's what I read about the Clinique Turnaround Concentrate that excites me!!!  True or False?  We'll see ....

**please click photo to enlarge

Clinique Superdefense SPF25/PA+++

I actually got a sample of this together with my Clinique 3-Step Skincare system but I just left this inside my "samples box".  It was when I visited Singapore (October of this year) that I started to use this and guess what?

I ended up loving it and will definitely repurchase.  Ah, the joy of testing products and the JOY of  discovering more *laughs*

The Clinique Superdefense SPF25/PA+++ is definitely a daytime moisturizer.  The texture is lightweight and gets absorbed into my skin as fast as 1-2-3.  This is one of the few moisturizers I've tried that doesn't feel heavy or oily yet, my skin looks moisturized the whole day!

On a side note, I appreciate a good sized sample from Clinique, I was able to find products that works for me through their samples and they give enough for you to know if the product agrees with your skin or not.

L'Occitane Immortelle Harvest Eye Balm

Since I entered the Pond's Flawless White Unbeaten Challenge, we weren't required to use an eye cream from the Flawless White range so I took out the L'Occitane Eye Balm my brother bought for me when he went to Canada.  Housed in a glass jar, I actually used this for more than 8 months....

I still have 1/8 left and whatever the price is...it's worth it!  The light, creamy texture of the L'Occitane Eye Balm is what I love to use in the morning as my under eye concealer glides on easily. 

Oh, before I forget, my facial wash in the morning is really light as I think my face won't get THAT dirty during sleep (not unless I sleepwalk and play on streets!  LOL).  I am currently using Shu Uemura's Skin Purifier Foaming Cleansing Water.  This is actually my 2nd bottle.  Review can be found HERE.

On to my nighttime regimen...

 It's either this....

OR This

Nighttime Products ---

• Estee Lauder Cyberwhite Brilliant Cells or Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate
• Estee Lauder Time Zone Night
• Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage

Estee Lauder Cyberwhite Brilliant Cells

I am seriously clueless how much product is still left in this bottle.  All I know is that I've been using this for quite some time.  I like the "pearlescent" color it exudes once you pump the product out of the bottle.The texture is just right and I can easily massage the product onto my skin and it gets absorbed immediately leaving a slight glow.

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate

I alternate the Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate and Estee Lauder CyberWhite Brilliant Cells for the fact that they both have the same brightening function.  I use the Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate on days that I think my skin is too dull and needs the extra "boost of glow and moisture".  This works and I'm saving this up.

I challenged this serum and wrote about my experiences HERE.

Estee Lauder Time Zone Night

This cream is Anti-line and Anti-wrinkle, a very potent cream moisturizer that's meant to be applied before going to sleep.  I never wake up with dry patches even inside an air-conditioned room.  I can't say anything about anti-line or anti-wrinkle as I don't have much to start with *denial stage*.  It's not too late to start using such product though.

Checking the date written at the bottom, I've started using this July of this year once a day using a "spatula".  A tiny amount really goes a long way!  I am a bit sad that only 1/4 is left but it's definitely a moisturizer worth checking out if you have the budget.

For the cleanser, I alternate 2 cleansers at night. Do you still remember the Skinsonic Skincare System that I reviewed last month?  True to what I said, I still use this system every other day and each time I do so, I use the most gentle cleanser I have tried and that goes to the Dove Beauty Moisture Facial Cleanser.

I am lucky as this inexpensive face cleanser works for me really well!  I'm actually on my 2nd tube.  This proves that you can mix high end and low end skincare products as long as your skin agrees to it!

On non-SkinSonic days,  I use the Pond's Gold Radiance Mousse.  I have actually finished a tube of Pond's Gold Radiance Facial Foam and my skin did not react negatively on this so I don't mind trying out the Mousse version.  So far, it's working quite wel.

The reason why I injected the Gold Radiance line from Pond's is because of the Brightening/Lightening serum that I've been using, I wanted to "boost" the brightening effect I want on my very dull skin! (Trust me, without makeup, my skin does look dull on some days.)

For now, that's my most updated skincare routine!
Some of the products are almost up so it's time to dig in those samples again and try other products!
I know!  Why can't I just stick to one?  I can't...it's an addiction!  *laughs*

What's your current skincare regimen? 
Share to me your ---
Cleanser
Toner (if any)
Serum/Essence (if any)
Moisturizer
Eye Cream

Let's compare notes! It'll be fun!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!