Nail Art Tutorial: My 34th Birthday!

Today is my birthday!  Happy Birthday to me! :)

I've celebrated 5 birthdays in this blog!  I can still remember the day I turned 30 and it felt like months ago!  

To celebrate my special day, I'm sharing a kiddie birthday nail art as mid-30s or 40s or 50s, we can always be child-at-heart!

My 24th Birthday Nails!

*ahem*  mistyped, I meant 34th!  *laughs*

Step 1:

Though my doctor gave me a go signal on using nail polishes, I am still very careful with the nail polish brands I use.  I make sure they are free from the Big 3 (toxic chemicals).  I skipped nail polish base and went ahead and apply 2 coats of Estee Lauder Pure Color Nail Lacquer in Narcissist.

I wanted to create a girly, candy-like vibe so I applied this shade only on my pinky, middle and pointer fingernails.

Step 2:

For the ring fingernails and thumbnails, I picked Girl Stuff Lov Lav polish or a matte lilac shade polish and applied 2 coats.  Let dry before we proceed with the nail art designs.

Step 3:

Starting at the simplest design, I picked my Nail Art Dotting tool and create random big and small dots as shown on photo below.

Step 4:

On the same fingernail, I also created random white dots making sure some of the dots overlap the hot pink dots.  This is one of the simplest nail art design anyone can start with. (I'm urging you!)

Step 5:

Using Girl Stuff Nail Polish in Pretty Pink (same polish used to create dots on step 4), I did a simple French Tip on my middle fingernail.

Step 6:

With my L.A. Colors Art Deco Nail Art Lacquer in white, I drew a line just below the hot pink French Tip created above.

Step 7:

Create dots similar to the ones done on your pinky fingernail.

Do not forget the overlapping white dots!

Step 8:

Now on to the ring finger, with L.A. Art Deco Nail Lacquer in white, I've created 2 lines and filled the rest with matte white polish.  This will be the candle.

Step 9:

Using any thin art brush, as for me, I used my old L.A. Art Deco Nail Lacquer Brush and dipped it on a red hot polish and create diagonal lines for the birthday candle design.

Step 10:

I picked a neon polish shade from Orly called GlowStick, I used a nail art dotting tool to create a "flame".

Step 11:

As for the pointer finger, I wanted to show a candy cane-like image, using a matte white polish, I created 2 thick, diagonal lines as shown below.

As soon as the white polish is completely dry, I drew a very thin line at the center of the white diagonal line.  This reminded me so much of candy canes but not the "Christmas-y" ones due to the change of colors!

Step 12:

Now on to both thumbnails, I picked a brown polish from Paul & Joe (shade 003) and drew a rectangular image. This will be the body of your cupcake.

Step 13:
Create "fluffy" outline like that of cupcakes.

Step 14:

As soon as the white shade has been filled in.  Make sure the white portion is completely dry before you proceed with dotting the cupcake with hot pink dots!  Now the cupcake looks yummier! :D

For a better cupcake image, I drew 3 straight lines on the brown rectangular image created earlier.

Optional:
Feel free to apply glitters on top of any of the fingernails you wish to sparkle! 

I can't seem to imagine a more child-like birthday nails like this!  Well, it's always fun to be young at heart and young on nails! :)

Enjoy my 34th Birthday Nail Art Design!

Have you finally tried doing nail art on yourself?
How about starting up by creating random dots? 

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AMW Bulletin: It's Clinique Bonus Time (March 2013)

Dear AMW Philippine Readers,

It's Clinique Bonus Time once again and I have to admit, the "thrifty me" loves to wait for this moment to repurchase my Clinique's 3-Step System.  Who doesn't love freebies?  Come on, you have to admit it, if a freebie looks THIS good (photo below), we go crazy!

The above bonus is free with a single receipt purchase of Php5,000 (approx $125.00) from March 1-17, 2013.

**photo from Clinique Philippines

The limited Lilac Pouch comes with your bonus, available only for first 500 clients.  A different pouch will be offered once supplies run out so hurry! hurry! HURRY!

Included in the pouch ---

• Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion 15ml
• Rinse Off Foaming Cleanser 15ml 
• All About Eyes Rich 5ml
• Moisture Surge Face Spray 30ml
• Pore Refining Solutions Correcting Serum 10ml
• Chubby Stick Super Strawberry 1.2 g

I am so happy they added the Chubby Stick sample in this month's Clinique Bonus Time and my ultimate "want to try" Moisture Surge Face Spray!!!  

Are you excited for this month's Clinique Bonus Time?
I can't get any more excited than this!

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AMW Reviews: Shiseido Perfect Rouge Tender Sheer in RD304 Hibiscus

I've always been envious of people who can wear any brand of lipsticks!  Whether high end or drugstore brand, the lip color always manages to look great on their oh-so-lovely lips.

As for me, I'm born with lips that has been slathered with dozens of lip balm and lip treatment but at the end of the day, it ends up looking like a crocodile worth selling to Hermes stores, maybe I could earn a bit of money from it!  *laughs*

Now that I'm embracing and loving what God has given me, I've finally came into a conclusion that when it comes to lip products, I need to invest on moisturizing lipsticks whether expensive or not as they are the only ones that work for me!  (Don't mind me if I still review matte textured lipsticks as I use them on clients!)   And well, you can't blame me as I get sidetracked by lovely shades most matte lipsticks have!

Today, I will be reviewing another one of the most moisturizing lipsticks I've tried from Shiseido.

Shiseido Perfect Rouge Tender Sheer in RD304 Hibiscus

I actually learned this line is quite new.  I called in local Shiseido counter to check if they're available in stores and yes!  They are!

Shiseido says ---

The moist, radiant finish of Perfect Rouge Tender Sheer smoothes your lips with beautiful color. Dewy texture, even application minimizes the look of vertical lip lines.

The chic, modern red package encases the color and expresses the unique signature of Shiseido.

• Moisture-rich finish lasts for hours.
• Super Hydro-Wrap Vitalizing DE + Hyaluronic Acid provides a long lasting moisture effect improving roughness and flaking.

Size: 4g/0.14oz

AMW says ---
Pros

• Simple red tube that screams Shiseido out of all the lipstick bunch!
• No scent.
• Pigmentation is good.
• Moisturizing lip color.  Can be applied even without lip balm underneath.
• Doesn't cause feathering or chapping.
• RD304 Hibiscus is wearable and works great anytime of the day.
• Though names says tender sheer, build-able color.
• Moist and shiny (but not too much).  Lips remain moisturized for the rest of the day even after re-application.

Cons

• Not as long lasting as compared to other matte lipsticks.
• Price

Overall

Shiseido Perfect Rouge Tender Sheer lipstick is on top of the list of very moisturizing lipstick.  The texture is creamy yet it doesn't leave a shiny film.  It tints the lips and the color is build-able.  Wearing this the whole day (even with re-application), my lips never crack or chap.

Tips

• If you suffer from very dry lips like I do, save up your money and purchase 1 really good, moisturizing, neutral shade that works for daily use.  
• Though Shiseido Perfect Rouge Tender Sheer is moisturizing enough, I still prefer to prep my lips by applying lip balm underneath.
• Store in cool, dry place as lipsticks can easily melt.
• If needed to share lipstick, use a lip brush for hygiene purpose.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
This lipstick works for everyone but people with dry lips should invest on lipsticks that are highly moisturizing.

Where to purchase and how much?

Available at Shiseido Glorietta 4, Power Plant Mall, Trinoma Mall and Greenbelt 5 for Php1,250.00 (approx $31.25).  Like Shiseido Philippines on Facebook for product updates. 

Photos

Swatch on RD304 Hibiscus

RD304 is leaning on the light peach brown shade with sheer yet build-able coverage.

Before and After 

Top: Bare Lips

Bottom: Wearing Shiseido Perfect Rouge Tender sheer in RD304 

applied directly from tube

The shade Hibiscus is wearable on both day and night and it looks very natural and moisturizing enough considering the super dry condition of my lips.

Does your lips suffer from extreme dryness?
Do you have a special brand of lipstick you particularly use that works even without lip balm underneath?

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 (product received for review.  Opinions 100% mine.)

AMW Reviews: BYS Bronzing Powder

Ah, the power of Bronzing, if done right, you'll look like a Sun Goddess!  

But why are we scared to use bronzing powders?  Maybe, it's the dirty, muddy look?  Bronzing powders can turn us into a shade or two darker?  Or maybe it looks too sparkly under the sun we may end up looking oily?

There are so many factors that could stop us from using one of the most loved makeups by actors and actresses.  Why?  Bronzing powders give a healthy look and can hide freckles, the best part?  It can also give you an instant "slim" overall look!

IF, you are using the right bronzing powders meant for your skin tone!

Today, I will be reviewing a bronzing powder that's unique in terms of its "physical" look and of course, the color!  This is one of the lightest bronzing powder I own which I believe would work really well as a natural bronzing powders for medium to fair skin tones and could work as a highlighter for medium dark to dark skin tones!

BYS Bronzing Powder with Sun Design

BYS says ---
This sun design bronzer by BYS gives a sheer, natural finish that can also be built for desired intensity. This is the ultimate solution for a sunless tan that is easily created within seconds giving you a smooth flawless finish.

Size: 8g
Ingredients:

AMW says ---
Pros

• Very cute sun design that can brighten up my day each time I pull this out.
• Build-able intensity.
• Very natural effect.
• Doesn't give a dirty or muddy look like other bronzing powders.
• Can double up as an eye shadow.
• Price.

Cons

• The product is Made in P.R.C. (People's Republic of China) which could be a con for others. 

Overall
A very natural, light bronzing powder with build-able intensity.

Tips

• Can be applied as regular blush for a more natural look.
• For an overall sun-kissed look, take out a big fluffy powder blush and apply BYS Bronzing Powder all over your face with light hand motion.
• Fair skinned users must apply with light hand for a more natural finish.
• Medium to dark skinned users may apply more.
• Re-application may be needed within the day for people with oily skin.

Will I repurchase?
Yes.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who wants to create a healthy, just came out under the sun look without going under the sun!

Where to purchase and how much?
BYS cosmetics are available in major SM Department Stores and Watsons Beauty Outlets nationwide.  BYS Bronzing Powder costs Php249.00 (approx $6.23).  Like BYS Philippines on Facebook for more product updates.

Photos

A closer look on the sun design that brightens up my day!

BYS Bronzing Powder product details at the backside

Swatch on Hand

The color is almost golden than "brown". 

Since I'm officially on my 8th month pregnancy and my round cheeks are really starting to show, I'm glad to use the BYS Bronzing Powder on a daily basis to give some "life" and "energy" on my "haven't seen the sun for too long face".  It also gives a nice contour and dimension I want!

Have you seen BYS cosmetics on counters?
Would you give the BYS bronzing powder a try?

I am very happy I don't need much hand control when I use this particular bronzing powder due to its lighter nature.  I can imagine myself using this as a blush on a daily basis until I get back the natural contours of my face! *lol*

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(Product received for PR purpose.  Reviews 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Reviews: The Body Shop Moisture White Shiso BB Serum Inside

The week of Valentine's, our dear friends from The Body Shop invited me to be part of their Valentine's Party!  I was a bit too late for the event but I was happy to be able to listen to at least half of the talk of "Love Yourself" by Ms. Ana Santos of Sense and Style and the makeup workshop done by the very talented TBS makeup artists.

AMW with Shen's Addiction 

After the event, I had a bit of talk with Danica and get to learn what new products to look forward to this year!  Since I got pregnant, I haven't been around cosmetic stores so it's nice to get updated once in awhile!

There's the Deliciously Sweet Strawberry Sweet and Fruity Range

and the Pure Indulgence Chocomania decadently chocolatey range for chocolate lovers out there!

Aside from those 2 new collections perfect for hearts day!  BB cream lovers!  Brace yourself, there's a new type of BB Cream called BB Serum!  A BB product lighter than regular creams?  Who doesn't like that?  After almost 2 weeks of constant usage, I'm ready to share to you my initial thoughts of the Body Shop Moisture White Shiso BB Serum Inside that's meant for all skin types!

The Body Shop says ---

Want brighter-looking skin, day after day?  You got it!  Meet new Moisture White Shiso BB Serum Inside SPF 25 PA+++, our supercharged, skin-caring BB Cream that's infused with serum powered by shiso.  The results are so noticeable that 71% of 100 Asian women who tried it saw instantly fairer skin upon application.

Our entire moisture White Shiso range is inspired by the humble herb shiso which is a member of the mint/basil family and believed to reduce early melanin-making signals for brighter, more luminous skin.

8 Benefits in 1

• Brightening
• Instant Hydration
• Natural Finish
• Easily Blendable
• UV Protection (mineral sunscreen SPF25 PA+++)
• Soothing
• Evens Skin Tone
• Lightweight

Size: 30ml

AMW says ---
Pros

• Pump bottle making it easy to control the amount of product needed.
• Lightweight.
• Has a matte, oil-free finish.
• Comes with SPF25 and PA+++ (note the 3 pluses).
• Gives an instant brightening effect.
• Has a good amount of coverage.  Events out the skin, pores where reduced and under eye circles where brightened even without the use of concealers.
• Has a good amount of oil control.
• No skin irritations even on first use.

Cons

• Comes in 1 shade, the shade is a tad bit lighter on my skin.  (Read tips on how to control the color by using liquid/cream/powder foundation)
• Price.  Some may find this a bit pricey for a 30ml tube.

Neutral

• Can't tell about the overall whitening/brightening effect for now as I only use the product for less than a month.

Overall

The Body Shop Moisture White Shiso BB Serum Inside is a lighter version of most BB Creams, has added SPF25 PA+++ with skin benefits to help whiten skin after constant use.  The product gives a matte finish yet has a brightening effect leaving the skin looking healthy.  The added bonus is the good coverage this BB Serum making my makeup last longer (note: Author has dry/combination skin.)

Tips
from The Body Shop

• Use Moisture White Shiso BB Serum Inside as the final step of your morning skincare routine.
• Apply with your fingers, gently blending over the face with small circular movements.
• For optimum skin brightening, use with Moisture White skincare products to cleanse, tone, treat, moisture and perfect your complexion.

from AMW

• Dry skinned individuals need to moisturize skin properly prior to BB serum application as this product (though a serum) has a cream-like texture that needs moisture for product to be applied evenly.
• If you have sensitive skin, it is best to do a patch test before applying all over your face.
• Do not forget to apply the neck area.
• If TBS Moisture White Shiso BB Serum Inside is a tad bit light on you, control the color by letting the product sit for a couple of minutes and use a darker foundation to even out the color of your face and neck.
• For people who doesn't have much skin problems, you can use TBS BB Serum and set with a translucent face powder.  No extra foundation or concealer is needed due to the nice coverage the product gives.
• Oily-skinned individuals may need to retouch or use oil-control films after 4 hours.
• Please try on testers before you purchase!  The shade may darken on you while some could look too white with this BB serum on.
  

Will I repurchase?
Yes.

To whom do I recommend this to?

All skin types who are fair skinned.  The rest of the medium to dark skin tones can still use this product but may have to control the color by following up with a foundation to even out the shade.

Where to purchase and how much?

At local The Body Shop stores for Php1,395.00 (approx $34.87).  Price may vary according to location. Please LIKE The Body Shop Philippines on Facebook for more products and events update.

Photos

Pump packaging that needs to be cleaned once in awhile for hygiene purpose.

The Body Shop Moisture White Shiso BB Serum Inside looks like regular BB cream.

Upon spreading the product, the texture is like that of a BB Cream but has a lighter feel.

The shade looks like "Ivory" on most foundations but with a "brighter" look.

Upon blending and waiting for the product to "settle in", it doesn't look as white as it was originally applied.  

Before and After shot 

(left bare skin, right with TBS Moisture White Shiso BB Serum Inside)

As seen on photo, redness on my cheeks and even my tiny mole was covered by just the application of BB serum.  The overall effect looks natural on photo but in person, my face around 2 shades lighter than my neck which I can easily correct by using 2 shades darker powder foundation.  

Though I suffer from dry skin, the product didn't magnify the dryness of my skin.

AMW wearing The Body Shop Moisture White Shiso BB Serum Inside 

Have you tried the old Shiso BB Cream from The Body Shop?
Are you willing to give the BB Serum a try after reading this review?

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(Product received during an event.  Reviews 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)