AMW Reviews: BSkin BB Cream

I have been dead loyal with my Skin79 VIP Gold BB Cream for years and I'm done with my 3rd bottle!  I know, it's almost the same as the way I finish my Cleansing Oils!  I slurp, gulp and drink!  *hahaha*

For the past few months, I didn't open my 4th and last bottle of Skin79 VIP Gold BB Cream as I have been testing BB creams that are locally available!  For the moment, there's 2 of them --- BSkin BB Cream and Snoe S Skin BB Cream!  Both sounds like they were cousins!  *hahaha* 

I will review BSkin first because I saw a 50% off deal online and some of you who would like to purchase this after reading this review may head on to the deal site!  (But please purchase at your own discretion, I am not connected with the deal site, I'm just here to help you guys save!) :)

BSkin BB Cream says ---

• Heals blemishes and regenerates skin.
• Conceals blemishes
• Reduces UV damage to skin
• ­­­ Whitens skin and ensures a healthy skin tone
• Keeps skin firm
• Fights ageing and reduces wrinkles

Ingredients

AMW says ---
Pros

• Squeeze type tube makes it easy to control the amount of product needed.
• Comes out white but once you apply on your skin, it adjusts to your skin color. *WICKED!!!*
• For a BB Cream, this has build-able coverage!  
• Lessens the look of redness and dark spots.
• Moisturizes the skin at the same time.
• Has SPF37 PA+++ which is quite higher than regular BB creams.
• Easy to apply, blends into the skin easily without tugging.
• Doesn't create a "gray" cast.
• Skin looks glowing!
• Very tiny hint of green tea scent that disappears.
• Dry skinned individuals can use this on its own minus setting!  My skin looks plump and health!

Cons

• Not easily seen on stalls or malls.
• Does not have total oil control.  
• Gearing towards to "pink" undertone so it will have a slight "pinkish" shade upon application.  (this will be gone a couple of minutes after though which makes it bearable.)

Overall
I like using this BB cream as it gives the effect my Skin79 VIP Gold BB Cream gives!  It gets absorbed into the skin producing a healthy "glow" at the same time, it keeps my skin hydrated throughout the day. 

Tips

• Apply a tiny amount with your clean bare hands and gently massage on your skin.
• Though there are many ways to apply BB cream, I think the best way is the use of your "free" tool --- CLEAN FINGERS.
• Apply more if needed but I suggest applying only a few amount at the start to see if the product will cause any allergic reactions.
• If you are happy with the coverage of BSkin BB Cream, set with your choice of powder foundation.
• Wait for a couple of minutes before you apply your foundation or setting powder.  It takes around 3-5minutes for the product to "set" into the skin.
• For very oily skin: use blotting sheets to remove excess oil or apply blotting powder in the middle of the day to prevent oilies.
• Once signs of irritations or allergic reactions occur, stop usage immediately.

Will I repurchase?
Not bad!  I  wouldn't mind purchasing this again!

To whom do I recommend this to?
I would say this works for dry, normal and combination skin.  Oily skin can still use this but may need the extra step of "setting" the BB Cream with an oil control powder.

Where to purchase and how much?
Php1,360.00 (approx $32.40) by texting 0922 8285814 or 0915 967416.  Saw a 50% off deal at Ensogo for Php680.00 (approx $16.00)  I'm not sure how long the deal will last!

Swatch

Product fresh from the tube

As you gently massage, the color turns from white to "flesh" tone.

Reminded me so much of Le'gere BB Cream

This one is more watery though!

 

BSkin BB Skin has a bit more pink undertone but leaving it for a couple of minutes,

 it does adjust to my original skin color!

Would you give this BB Cream a try since it's on 50% off deal anyways?
In my opinion, if you are starting up on BB cream and wouldn't like to worry much on color matching, this is the best way to start! :)

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

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

AMW Reviews: Ansley New York Flash Lip Color Stick

Good morning Friday! :)  

Remember my review on Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Color Balm?  Guess what?  I think I found its inexpensive counterpart!  I didn't plan to compare the 2 but ever since I started using the Ansley New York Flash Lip Color Stick, I can't help but be reminded of the Clinique version!

By the way, both names are long and difficult to remember!  *laughs*  :P

Ansley New York Flash Lip Color Stick says ---

Soft and quick display of a lovely cute lips!! 

• Moist and glossy lips - Hexadenceco polymer which arranges water protection screen on the lips maximizes the moist.
• Speedy display - The pencil type lip stick draws the smooth lip line without being put in between. 
• No smudge lip color stick - High moisturizing and high shining

Color choices:

#1Banana - Lip make up base. Tiny pearl particles show the natural gloss
#2 Lovely rose - Soft feeling. Elegance rose color
#3Cherry rose - Fresh cherry bitten cute color

AMW says ---

Pros

• Inexpensive for its quality.
• Moisturizing.  My lips are very dry but I can apply this on its own.  This looks even better with normal lips!
• Lasts longer than regular lipstick.
• Has a hint of fruity scent that's not too strong.
• Smooth texture that glides onto the lips easily.
• Both shades of lip colors work for all skin color!
• The Ansley New York Flash Lip Color Stick can define my lips without the harsh "outline" as created by regular lip liners.

Cons

• Not for people who aren't into online shopping.
• Packaging!  I have to open the cap each time or read the shade name as you can't tell the difference just by looking at the exterior.
• Needs a big-hold pencil sharpener for this.
• Limited shades.

Overall

Good pigmentation.  Long-lasting.  Doesn't dry out lips.  Inexpensive!

Tips

• It would be best to blot your lips to minimize moisture prior to application to prevent the lip color from sliding off.
• To make the lip color last longer, apply first layer all over lips and blot with a napkin, re-apply the second time and do the same.
• You can always top this with your favorite lip color as this can act as a lip liner.  Once the lipstick fades, you still get a good base of color on your lips c/o Ansley.
• For online shoppers, you can save up on shipping by ordering with friends.
• If you have extremely dry lips, feel free to top the lip color with a gloss or balm.
• Store in cool, dry place to prevent lip pencil meltdown.
• Online shoppers?  CHECK OUT AMW COUPON CODE for 10% discount on orders!

Will I repurchase?
I won't be finishing up the lip color stick anytime soon so I don't think I need to repurchase for now, NOT unless more shades will be coming out.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who's comfortable with online shopping who likes the long-lasting effect of a lip pencil minus the dryness.

Where to purchase and how much?

At Glow and Glamour website for $6.90 (approx Php290.00) + Shipping.  Check my code given by the company below for 10% off.

Swatch

02 Lovely Rose - this color reminded me so much of Maybelline's BonBon Pink (lighter version)

03 Cherry Love is the darker version of Clinique's Super Strawberry.

02 Lovely Rose

Applied on lips without base or gloss

03 Cherry Love

Applied on lips without base or gloss

If you plan to order from Glow and Glamour website, feel free to use the Glow and Glamour coupon code specially for AMW readers (AF280291458).  Less 10% on all products in store!

Which shade do you like?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Product sent for review.  Reviews 100% mine.  Code generated for the purpose of discount, I am not affiliated nor paid by the company.)

Royal Effem Compact Powder Foundation Review

Another Royal Effem bestseller review!  I have the honor to try RE Compact Powder Foundation and share my experiences!  I'm glad to share that the brand actually likes to read my honest-to-goodness reviews and they like reading valuable feedback from consumers like me --- the good AND the bad!

It took me a bit of time to review the said product as everybody knows, I have dry skin!  I want to test this on oily-skinned individuals to get the maximum review!  Now that the post is here you know that I've tested this long enough and I hope it helps you in deciding whether you need this product or not!

Are you ready to rumble?

The RE Compact Powder Foundation is housed in a simple black packaging with a regular sized round mirror as seen in most powdered compacts!

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant Review

My UDL (Ultimate Dry Lips) is hopeless, I have found a lot of good lip products that works but "re-application" will always be the key to lip moisturization!

My brother, gifted me Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream last year and I stored it inside my "stock cabinet" and left it there for quite sometime as I was busy finishing up my existing 3 lip products that are scattered on "core" places inside my room.

One night, as I was watching a YT video of Lisa Eldridge, she mentioned about the "Eight Hour Cream" that she applied all over her lips and woke up with nice, soft and supple lips!  I got off my bed right away and checked the "Elizabeth Arden" gift that brother gifted me --- Wow!  I own one!!!

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant says ---

The skincare classic that soothes, restores, calms and helps relieve chapped, cracked, dry skin. Soothes roughness, redness and minor skin irritations. 

Nail Art Tutorial: I'm in the Galaxy

Good morning everyone!  Ahh Nail Art Tutorial is back!  I didn't stop doing nail art though but my last art was done so intricately but sad to say, no one was taking a photo and I was so engrossed in doing my "sunset" nail art that I didn't bother to take shots!  Don't worry though, given the chance to redo the nail art design and if my dearest photographer is "present" I'll definitely share to everyone!  Promise!

I finally got my KKCENTERHK haul!  It was one unique product that I thought of getting so I can share something unique for nail art lovers out there!

N. Nail Magnetic Nail Polish 

Pattern Shaping Magnet

Whew!  Such a long name!

I also got 2 unique X&D Magic Change nail polishes as this pattern shaping magnet won't work with regular nail polishes.

Comes with 3 plates with 3 unique designs

Various Contests --- Winners! + Pet Blessing Day!

Dear AMW Readers,

I enjoyed the active participation of AMW readers on both my posts and contests!  Thank you so much for being so active in sharing your thoughts, ideas and just simple ways to brighten up my day!

Finally, here's the announcement for the winners of the various contests which ended March 15, 2012!

Love Package from Glow and Glamour

Mary Kay Gives: "Glam Up Your Lips" Promo

I already picked the winner and Mary Kay will send the email directly to the winner!  Please check your mail box if you did join the contest!

Snoe Gives: Cool Snoe Products

Congratulations to ---

Gen-zel D. Habab

Strip Gives: Bare Necessity

Congratulations to ---

Charlene Bianes

Avon Gives: Giving Back

Congratulations to ---

 Anna Farinah Mindalano

Avon Naturals Rose and Rose Hips

Congratulations to ---

Lady Anne Lao

 

Avon Naturals Tea Tree Oil & Green Tea Purifying Skin Care

Congratulations to ---

Kristin Mendoza

Avon Naturals Milk & Honey Nourishing Skin Care

Congratulations to ---

Claire Sereno

 

I will email the winners to get your mailing address!  Again congratulations and thanks everyone for joining!  Again, as promised, there will be more contests for you!  I love you all! :)

Before I end this post, I want to share an important announcement to ALL pet lovers out there!  The Purple Groom is giving away 50% off on grooming service on MARCH 30, 2012 starting at 9:00am at the Xavierville Branch for their PET BLESSING DAY!  

LIKE them on Facebook and message them if you are going!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Makeover: Nikki and Camie

Today's post, I am dedicating this to one of super loyal client Nikki --- ahhhh! The name Nikki is really wonderful, don't you think?  They're usually loyal, pretty, funny, smart etc...! :P  

Seriously speaking, Nikki and her mom is one of my first few clients who trusted me even way back!  I'm glad to have loyal clienteles and I love my job because I get to know them not just as clients but as friends!  Nikki gave me a short message asking me if I can do her makeup as well as her friends' as they are part of the entourage for a wedding in the province.  

I happily obliged!

Client A

Skin type: Combination

Request: Well, I've done her makeup so many times she lets me do her makeup with ease and without any request :)

Client A has combination skin so I prepared her skin by moisturizing the drier areas and applied oil control on areas that I know will oil up the most!  In her case, it's her t-zone.  I mixed up 2 different shades from Graftobian to achieve her shade and applied a thin layer all over her skin as she's got good skin to start with.

She has a nice set of brows so all I did was to fill in the gaps and set it with a brow gel to tame them!  On to the eye makeup, Nikki has typical Asian eyes (monolid), I steered away from creating fake crease as it was a day time wedding event I don't want her to look too made-up and unnatural, I ended up highligthing the inner corner of her eyes giving a bit of dimension or creating a "shadow" on her "crease" area and lined her eyes with a thicker-than-usual liner. 

A simple flush was created using a Cream Blush from Stila as she has drier cheeks.  Cream blush set with a tiny amount of powder blush would be great for that "dewy" looking cheeks.

I contoured random areas of her forehead, nose, cheekbones and the chin area for that nice "color" as client is quite fair! 

Last but not the least, a lipstick that's close to her original lip color was used.

Final Look

Client B
Skin type: Normal and Dry
Request: Any look

Camie, is one of those girls who have a perfect canvass!  You can easily change her look with different sorts of makeup application and as I look into her clear skin, I thought of a nicer "flush" of color focusing on her eyes and skin!  

For the skin, I applied a regular primer from Laura Mercier to keep her makeup intact, let it set a bit then applied a tiny amount of Benefit Porefessional on her nose area.

In person, Camie has colored hair so I happily pulled out my brow powder, brow pencil and brow gel!  Brows are tricky yet fun to do and I took the time to really create a "young looking" brows fit for her age!  

On to her eye makeup, Camie's outfit has a lot of gorgeous bling so I want to keep it down with neutral shades, a light dust of rose colored eyeshadow was used adding up on dark purple and brown mixed together to create shades that people can't seem to identify!  And for another "monolid" client, it is very important to apply the right thickness of eyeliner to enhance her eyes but NOT applying it all over the eyes making it smaller!  I try to steer away from winging any eyeliner for monolid as I want to show "the roundness" of the eyes, winging it would make it even smaller!

Client B has oblong face shape so I contoured areas on her forehead, chin, cheekbones and let's not forget the non-surgery nose lift via contouring powder! *winks*

A light peach colored blush was used and I topped it with a tiny amount of bronzing powder for that healthy glow!  Of course, to finish it off, a peach colored lipstick was used.

Final Look

And here's the ultimate final look ....

*laughs* Just Joking!  Isn't he adorable??? :)  

To those who haven't seen this on my Facebook Page, I actually got my ZUCA case last February 28 (right in time for my birthday) and I've been putting this case in action for quite some time!  I'll share to everyone my thoughts on this once I'm ready! 

Thanks Nikki and Camie for the trust!
Do you like their makeovers?
Happy Monday!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy

Weekend Food Tripping at: Kogi Bulgogi

Happy Sunday! :)
Please do not get angry if you are seeing yet another "Korean Food" post, if you do, you'll get angry quite a number of times on my blog as you'll definitely see a lot of these blogged here! :)

Because I live at downtown area, seldom do I go to Eastwood, but because I had a makeup gig near by, Mr. AMW and I decided to drop Eastwood Mall!  We were walking around wondering where to eat, then we saw his Aunt! 

As advised by Aunty Anne *waves hi!*, the place to go for Korean food craving is called Kogi Bulgogi!

 Free Appetizer

We asked for second round of Kimchi, 

Seasoned Bean Sprouts and flavored dried fish

Jjampong 

Php215.00 (approx $5.00)

Fresh noodles in spicy seafood ramen

The noodles are definitely fresh and doesn't come out from an "instant" noodle packaging!  I've dined in several Korean restaurants and I can immediately tell if the noodles they served are freshly made or not (it's a talent :P).   When you order Jjampong, you can request for your preferred level of spiciness! In my case, I went for Mild just so my tummy won't act up again!

 Bibimbap

Php165.00 (approx $3.40)

Beef with fried egg

Bibimbap is one of the many few dishes you can see me finish a big cup of rice!  Seasoned vegetables served with egg on top mixed together with beef slices and red paste gives an overall pleasure inside my mouth!  

 Dweji Kalbi

Php188.00 (approx $4.37)

Grilled pork served with fresh lettuce and spices to test your "meat wrapping" skills! :)  I like the fact that the pork served doesn't have a lot of fat, yet the meat remains tender because of the way it was sliced!

The restaurant is not that big and most of the time, it is packed with hungry customers!  The exterior could be intimidating but the prices are reasonable!  Ambiance is comfortable for family gatherings or even for dates! 

Servers were quick, attentive and helpful!  Kogi Bulgogi accepts cash and credit card payments.

Kogi Bulgogi

2/F Eastwood Mall Veranda, E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., 

Bagumbayan, Libis Quezon City

(632) 470-6884 to 85

Have you seen this restaurant at the Eastwood Mall Area?  Have you tried their dishes?  How was your experience?  Can you share to me another dish recommendation from this restaurant?  I'll definitely go back!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reports: Toccare Spa

Hair Color --- check!

Hair Treatment --- check!

Now what's left to complete my ultimate pampering package AMW style?

Massage!!!

After I came back from my teaching gig in China, I told Mr. AMW that I have never found a "spa" place that gives me the comfort as what I've experienced in Shenzhen, I actually purchased a 12 sessions + 3 free for a year membership!  It was pricey but it was all worth it as teaching isn't easy, the stress, the pressure that I've experienced, I'm glad I have a "spa" place were I can throw my troubles away.

Back in Manila, I've had bits of services that are my favorite but I can only find them on different places.  Where's the TOTAL package that I was looking for?  After several years of search, I've finally found it!  

At Toccare Spa

It was perfect as I just finished a makeup gig that day.  A girl's gotta learn how to relax, and I'm learning pretty fast! :)

Toccare Spa is located at the Antel Spa Suites, once you get into the lobby area, you will be directed to an elevator that goes straight to 4th floor.  Once I got in, I was greeted by the receptionist and you get to choose the services you want!  You can choose from their packages available or you can personalize it base on your needs.

I was given the chance to choose the scent of the oil, the scent of the room and the type of music to be played (available for private rooms only).  For the oil, I went for Lemongrass while the room scent, I chose Lavander.  For the music?  I want for nature!

I was ushered to the changing room were I get to put my stuff inside the locker provided.  Any service you choose, you can go for Dry Sauna, Wet Sauna or Jacuzzi.  I went for 15 minutes Dry Sauna and watched "The Buzz" while I drink a cold glass of water. (There's a television right outside the sauna and you can actually see it as they're facing you!).

 

I had a quick shower right after and changed into a robe.

For every services you avail, you also get a complimentary 15 minutes foot ritual.  The pedicure/manicure and food ritual room's interior is well decorated.  The ambiance is very relaxing!

A television was there right in the middle of the room just in case guests wants to watch cable television programs.

My foot spa started by dipping my feet into a warm tub of water as the attendant sprinkled some bath salts and scrubbed my feet and legs massaging it all at the same time.

I was offered drinks so I chose hot tea as I enjoy a bit of the magazines.

The foot spa ended with the application of lotion on both feet and legs and a nice massage.

Skin Nourishment Body Scrub 

60 minutes

Lemon-grass Sage Salt Scrub

Php1,500 (approx $35.00)

I was led into a common room for my body scrub, the room has its own shower, sofa and sink.  You get to strip off your robe for body scrub so it is advisable that you bring extra undies so you don't have to be in your birthday suit.

The scrub itself felt a bit uncomfortable at first as I seldom have someone "scrub" my body!  The pressure of the "scrub" can always be requested, I am glad my attendant have such "light" hands and I was put to ease in no time.  

After the scrub, I was asked to wash off the lemon-grass sage salt scrub and my skin felt moisturized immediately after even without oil or lotion.

Filipino Hilot

Php1,000 (approx $23.50) for 60min

Php1,200 (approx $28.00) for 90min

This can be done in a private room and I immediately took a shot as the room reminded me so much of my favorite private room in Shenzhen, China. 

I looked around and saw a sink, toothpaste and toothbrush just in case client would like to brush their teeth after!

The unique thing about Filipino Hilot is the warm banana leaves that was pressed on my back.  It immediately soothes the pain around my back and the massage done was to die for!  The massage started at the back area down to the legs then the head.  The oil used absorbed immediately into my skin miraculously leaving me with no greasy feel!

I actually dozed off a bit and woke up again when I have the Appertizer Facial next.  It was for good 30 minutes and they actually used Pevonia Botanica skincare products!   

After more than 3 hours of total treatment, I changed and went to Mr. AMW who's waiting for me in this waiting area.  Mr. AMW applaud the spa for the comfortable waiting area and he told me the staffs took care of him by offering drinks!

By the way, for any package you get, you can choose to include the SPA CUISINE to complete the ultimate pampering experience!  Though the meal was good for 1 person, I think it is even enough for 2!  I went back to the Foot Ritual room to watch HBO movie and enjoy the lovely dishes served with Mr. AMW.  It felt like a date night! :)

Spa Cuisine for the night:

Pumpskin Soup, Salad with Vinaigrette,

Teriyaki Chicken with rice and vegetables and Blueberry Panna Cotta

Pros

• Staffs are very helpful and knowledgeable of each services offered.
• Place is very clean!
• Clean lockers, slippers and bath robes.
• Hair brushes and blow dryer available for clients to use.  They have hair brush sterilizers available which I appreciate a lot!
• Disposable toothbrush and toothpaste are available for clients to use.
• I was told the spa also have disposable underwear.
• Price is quite reasonable for the high class service they provide.
• The spa has a lot of choices to chose from on Body Massages, Body Scrubs, Body Wraps, Body Sculpt, Hand & Foot Repair, Face Therapy, Other Services like ear candling, hair waxing, threading and a lot more!
• The Spa Cuisine!  My overall spa experience ended around 10pm so most of the restaurants nearby were close and I was really hungry!  The extra service makes this spa a unique place to go to! 
• Seriously good food!

Cons

• The place is world class but it's not as accessible to everyone.
• I know it is just me, but I came in with makeup, and after the sauna, I went out with HUGE panda eyes from my eyeliner smudging everywhere.  It would be great if they have facial wash or makeup removers available.

Overall

I will definitely go back and will take my parents with me!  I may not go for the same services I had as I find it a bit too much (I'm not used to being pampered for more than 2 hours! hehehe)  I will definitely go back for more body massages and seriously? I"m actually looking forward for more of their cuisine!  

Toccare Spa

4th Floor Antel Spa Suites

7829 A. Venue Makati, 

Makati Avenue, Makati City

Tel. nos: (632)555-1232 or (63927) 768-6556
Website: http://www.toccarespa.com.ph

Facebook: Toccare Spa

Have you heard about Toccare Spa? 
Which among their services would you try?  

Keep smilin'
Stay happy

(Services provided for PR purposes.  Reviews 100% mine.)