AMW Reviews: New Pantene Pro-V 3 Minute Miracle Conditioner

Happy Saturday AMW Friends!

Early this week, I was really excited in sharing teasers from my sisters from www.sampleroom.ph.  Who wouldn't? I mean upon seeing this...

I knew I had to check it out!  Whether I am a Beauty Blogger or not!  If you read my previous "hair related" posts, you know the things I do and go through to take care of my tresses!   

Kiss Me Heroine Make Impact Liquid Eyeliner Black #01 Review

Happy Friday! :)

I can't wait to share my review on Kiss Me Heroine Make Impact Liquid Eyeliner because I love liners!  I have been using this for months now and all I can say is...well..I'm not saying it now because you're going to click X and leave this site right? So please scroll down? #hihihi

Bobbi Brown Skin Weightless Powder Foundation (Warm Beige) Review

When I mention the brand Bobbi Brown, the famous Gel Eyeliner always comes to mind!  Next, I would probably say, their liquid foundation (they are really good!)  I realized, I never tried any powder foundation from Bobbi Brown!  So when I got my hands on their newest Skin Weightless Powder Foundation last year, I knew I had to give this a try because I am a powder foundation gal!

And it doesn't hurt that this is called "Weightless", who doesn't like weightless makeup?  I know I do!

I was told by Bobbi Brown staff that the powder shade is a bit unique so you really need to test it on your cheeks and neck before you pick the right shade for you!

I Wonder: What is your To-Go-To Neutral palette? (Local Brands)

I am a neutral girl, you obviously know that by now if you are a long-time reader of AskMeWhats!  And I have my favorite palette I usually reach out for when I go to events, parties or simply, when I want to make myself look presentable!

And these palettes are home-grown!

Ellana Mineral Cosmetics

Eyebrow/Eyeshadow Quad

How Does L'Oreal Color Riche L’Extraordinaire Look On a Regular Person?

Not bad I must say!
Drugstore brands like L'Oreal, Maybelline, Revlon, CoverGirl and Max Factor are really up'ping their "pucker game"!  I don't know about other Make Up Artists out there but I actually include these brands on my professional kit!  It is because they are THAT good to be included in the kit!

Just when I thought L'Oreal stopped creating more lip products after the success of ---
L'Oreal Collection Star
L'Oreal Shine Caresse
L'Oreal Color Riche Intense Color Nourishing Care Lip Gloss

Who could imagine there is another line that is as equally good, if not, even better?

The L'Oreal Color Riche L'Extraordinaire!  

This is packaged in a lipstick-looking tube, but looks can really be deceiving!

The Body Shop Geisha Doll Lip & Cheek Tint Review

I received this cute gift last Christmas from The Body Shop and I can't wait to share to you what it is because it is too cute to ignore!

Happy 50Th Golden Wedding Anniversary Ma and Pa!

Shocking that I skipped a post yesterday right?
Well, don't be!  If you follow me on Instagram (@AskMeWhats), you'll know what kept me busy for the past few days!  I have been cramming for my mom and dad's 50th..yes...50th!  Golden Wedding Anniversary!

Okay, I can't help it, but my mom and dad looks so beautiful and handsome together!  

I realized how nice it is to have brothers and sisters.  I have 2 big brothers and 1 elder sister..yes, I'm the youngest in the family (but definitely NOT spoiled!)  All thanks to my mom and dad's guidance, I grew up to be who I am now because of their constant reminder to treat people well, be generous not with wealth but with love, be compassionate to others, be humble and never ask for things you don't need.  

What's Your Throwback?

My throwback? Is a SECRET!
No, I mean I'm not keeping it a secret..but it's SECRET!

HERE! 

When I received this package as a gift last Christmas, I gave out a big smile because I remembered back in the day when I was saving up my "Christmas Money" just to purchase Secret at Greenhills!  Yes, it was an "imported, expensive" thing during those days but you can't blame a girl who grew up with Teen and YM magazines!

And of course, the reason why I kept on repurchasing is the fact that this product works!  I forgot to bring deodrant/anti-perspirant when I was in Boracay several years ago and my arms literally sweat like a pig!  I had to purchase Secret at a nearby store (thankful they have these available).  SO YES, the SECRET Sheer Dry and Platinum Protection are my throwback because I've used them both! 

Make Up For Ever Artist Liner in Matte Black Review

Do you still remember my rave on Make Up For Ever's Aqua Eyes Eyeliner?  Would you believe I still purchase and repurchase those for my clients?

Bam came the end of 2014 when I was oriented with Make Up For Ever's new black liners!  3 variants to choose from all in BLACK BLACK!  --- Artist Liner (on spotlight in this blog post), Ink Line rand Graphic Liner. 

I Wonder: Are You A Body Wash or Soap Gal?

I used to raise one eyebrow up (or shall I say, Tried to raise one eyebrow up) when my friends tell me they are Body Wash users, I mean...seriously... SOSYAL MO! 

But when I turned into a Blogger who does a lot of product reviews, I can't help but go to that route, that "evil" and sosyal na Body Wash route!  And guess what?  Once I did, well, I do look back to soaps still but wow!  My bathing experience is really amazing when I use body wash!  Let me tell you why....

• My very dry skin loves the extra moisture most body washes give.
• They really smell good and can seriously turn any mood to #GOOD !
• Scent stays longer than most soaps.
• Did I mention I feel really good?

 One beauty product that I easily "hit the pan", I would say, are body washes!  I finish one up in less than a month and I am actually looking forward to try other brands!

Recently, I got a package from my Sampleroom family to try out the new Olay Body Washes!  I've treid Olay soaps and they are surprisingly hydrating (considering they are soaps) so even if I have a couple of body washes inside my bathroom, I can't help but give one tube a try! (spell #ATAT)

Lips of the Day: Canmake Tokyo Candy Wrap Lip (Honey)

My first ever Canmake product is a lipgloss called Tokyo Candy Wrap Lip!  The shade is in Honey and I'm so happy to get the chance to try this from last year's BDJ Corporate Chic "box".  Since I got this, I have been reaching out to this when I want "pale lipped" effect minus the dryness!  Yes, I have the worlds' driest of all dry lips so when I say a product is effective for my crocodile lips --- you know I'm not pulling your leg! 

For reference, I wore no "color" makeup just to show you the "effect" of the shade Honey on me!  Yes, I look pale..and NO I'm not sick! :P

But do I love this?  I absolutely ADORE this!  If you are in a hurry, you may now leave..but I know you want to read more about this (I'm using the power of positive thinking and I hope it is effective!) so please scroll down!

How To: Cream Contour and Highlight using Pro 15 Color Corrector Palette

Just when I was about to go out, thankfully, the ever loyal Photographer of mine Mr. AMW was available to take a photo of me doing a complete Contour and Highlight using cream concealers.  Now before you go: "Cream what?  WHY?"  well, the effect is really nice and it isn't as hard as it looks/sound! 

P.S. In this photo-torial, I used Pro 15 Color Corrector Palette from Pro Studio Beauty!  The quality is amazing, you get most of the shades you need for both concealing and correcting.  The best part?  This palette is inexpensive (Priced less than Php600.00 for the whole palette)!  (Available at Glambox Beauty Studio Unit 2C Valuepoint Building, 227 Salcedo St. Legaspi Makati, you may call 09158342023) 

And no, you won't look like a Drag Queen...and I got proofs!

L'Oreal Mat Magique All-In-One Matte Transforming Powder Review

I got hold on the newest innovation from L'Oreal last December and I've been testing this powder ever since!  This is called L'Oreal Mat Magique, an All-in-One Matte Transforming Powder made available just this month!

AMW Cooks: Lumpiang Shanghai

Remember my "Triangular-shaped Lumpia" post a couple of months ago? (Read recipe HERE).  Well, I have actually made regularly shaped lumpia so many times I actually forgot to post my recipe here!  If you're interested, feel free to read my version!  It is VERY similar to the way I cooked Triangular ones!

To my international readers, Lumpiang Shanghai is also known as Fried Spring Rolls!  They are usually made with ground pork and you may add shrimps or other vegetables for more flavors!  I want to apologize in advance if you are a seafood lover because I won't be posting much seafood recipes because, unfortunately, I'm allergic to it!  :)

Did you know that the first dish I cooked for our Home Education class is Fried Shrimp Rolls?  I vaguely remembered leaving some for Mr. AMW!  Must be the reason why he fell in love with me *yeeeheee* :P

So anyways, back to the recipe!  I apologize for the "no presentation" set-up!  When it comes to fried dishes, I usually serve them on a strainer to prevent the Lumpia to turn soggy!  Trust me, this trick works!  Even after 30 minutes (I usually wait for Mr. AMW to arrive home from work), my Lumpiang Shanghai remain oh-so-crunchy!

Ingredients:

• Ground Pork
• Lumpia Wrapper
• Finely chopped garlic.
• Finely chopped carrots
• Soy sauce
• Cornstarch
• Salt and Pepper
• Turnip (optional) for added crunch.
• a tiny amount of Knorr Seasoning (optional)
• Oil

Meet Avon's Brightest Star

Avon, has always been a brand of choice when you are looking for good quality product that isn't overpriced!  I've had a good relationship with Avon through the years!  I remembered one of my colleague in China Airlines bringing in an Avon brochure and I took the whole lunch time to pick the right lipstick for my mom!  That was almost 2 decades ago and look how Avon is doing now?  Still going strong! 

I am not surprised because when I browse into their online website, they always come up with products we Filipinos love!

Just like Avon's Newest and Brightest Star ---

The Avon Femme Eau De Parfum!  This is a glamorous and sophisticated signature scent that evokes elegant contrasting combination of sparkling freshness and a floral bouquet of jasmine and magnolia!  When I saw the word JASMINE as part of the ingredients, I immediately had this wonderful thought of making my mom extra happy even after the Holidays!  My mom loves the scent Jasmine and she owns 1 Jasmine perfume that she has been saving up for so long!  This is the perfect time for me to tell her how much I love her and how much I would want to spoil her in return!

Price: Php1,500 for 50ml

And I want to take this opportunity to thank Avon Philippines for the generous gift during the holiday!  Thank you so much Avon for these!

Avon Lotion Moisture Blend Formula

Avon Professional Collection Make-Up Collection Palette

Avon  Scent Essence Sparkly Citrus

Avon Scent Esence Vibrant Fruity

How To: Bright Beautiful Skin with Korean Skincare

I love Korean Food, Korean Dramas, Korean actors and actresses.  In short, I love the country Korea - the people and their culture!  And let's not forget, one of my favorite makeup artist is called Pony!  She is a well-known Korean Make Up Artist who looks very pretty!  You've probably seen her face at Etude House Posters! (I spotted a big one at SM Sta Mesa!)

Don't you just love how gorgeous their skin look even without makeup?  One reason why I am really looking into Korean skincare products nowadays!  I've been a loyal Korean masks user for years!  But skincare/  Not so!  Starting 2015, I'm definitely going for Asian made skincare!  What do you think?

Nippon Pro Blend Sponge Review

My love for "Beauty Blenders" will always be there no matter how many packs of "wedge sponges" I consumed!  I still find myself using a "Beauty Blender" or tear-drop shaped sponges for natural-looking makeup with an "airbrush" finish.  

I owned 2 Beauty Blenders(review HERE) and after that, I was able to try out different brands that are similar to Beauty Blenders!  Examples are HD Makeup Blender and Pro Studio Beauty PRO Blend Sponge!  Unfortunately, there are more from brands like Etude House that I haven't tried!  Will definitely keep my eyes open on other brands and will review as much as I can!

Today, let us focus on the Nippon Pro Blend Sponge KIT that I got over the holidays as gift!  Yes, for a set, you get not one but TWO Pro Blend Sponges and a 20ml Pro Blend Sponge!  Finally!  I find myself having a hard time cleaning these hard-headed sponges!

Max Factor #GlamJan - My #GlamJan Look

Yes, that's me!
But nevertheless I'm posting this for a reason!  It is #GLAMJAN!

Most of the time, at the start of the year, women around the world would put "Diet" as part of their New Year's resolution.  As for me, "Diet What?"

Sorry, I just need all the energy I can get as a Blogger, Makeup Artist, Consultant (yes I have a real job), a home-maker and a hands-on mom!  So instead of visualizing myself to get thin in no time, I'd rather do it gradually and stay healthy.  But as I go through this "looooong" process, who says I can't transform myself in other ways?

YES, you and I can!  With Makeup!  I'm sure you love makeup as much as I do because that's the reason why you are here, reading my blog post!  And you do know that makeup can not only change how a woman look but feels?

Max Factor is inviting women to post their most glamorous transformation selfie using #GlamJan and a message about how good it feels to glam up!  And I'm taking part of this because looking good can really help you feel good!

The red lipstick looks "Marilyn Monroe-ish" right?  Well, because she is the new Glamour Ambassador for the brand!  Just a brief background, Mr. Max Factor was the man responsible for her incredible transformation from Norma Jeane to Marilyn Monroe!  Propelling her career and creating a glamorous look that has become truly iconic!  

Marsala Inspired Lipsticks - Drugstore Edition

Happy Monday!  The nerd in me over the weekend rummaged through my lipstick stash for "Marsala" hued lipstick shades that I currently own!  Yes, I took the time and effort to swatch and compare because I am actually excited with this year's Pantone Color of the year!

It must be the 90's blood in me!  Well, I'm really an 80's baby but I definitely started to wear lipstick during the 90's!  Can I just say Late 90's para hindi mukhang matanda?  *Laughs*

AMW Cooks: Beancurd with Minced Pork in Oyster Sauce

Hi AMW Friends!
I missed cooking!  For this whole week, I got to cook (like really cook) for 2-3 times only.  The rest?  I relied on Longganisa that was given to us, or corned beef with potatoes (you know those easy-to-cook meals?)

So yes, this mom (me!)  misses the chopping of ingredients, setting them aside.  Or marinate chicken or pork and other nitty-gritty stuff when it comes to cooking!

Today, I will share to you one of my favorite meals!  Beancurd (Tofu)!  I pray I don't get "Uric Acid" when I grow older because I just can't stop myself from eating Tofu!  I mean seriously, aren't they delicious???  (Sorry to non-tofu lovers out there!)

How to cook Beancurd dish?  So many ways!  But this is the simplest and my favorite!

Beancurd with Minced Pork in Oyster Sauce (you may add a bit of Hoisin Sauce for that extra OOMPH)

Ingredients:

• Tofu, cut into cubes
• Minced Pork
• Green Bell Pepper
• Garlic and onion
• Oil
• Water
• Salt and Pepper
• Soy Sauce
• Lee Kum Kee Oyster Sauce
• Lee Kum Kee Hoisin Sauce (Optional)
• Mushrooms (optional)
• Cornstarch used to thicken the sauce

Bobbi's Holiday Gift-Giving Guide

What?  Holiday Gift-Giving?  Isn't the Holidays over?
Well, not for me!  I am still wrapping gifts and sending it out to people who matters to me!  Well, for me, technically, if Chinese New Year isn't over, then the "Happy New Year" greeting won't be over for me!  That's how much I love the New Years I tend to extend it in my own little world!  

But honestly speaking, excuse na din yon!  Kasi I was too busy to post about Bobbi Brown's Holiday Gift-Giving Guide year 2014!  These products are drool-worthy and Blog-worthy so I really had to post this!  Saves you from going to counters to ask about the price of each item because I took the liberty to type it down for you!  Now, don't I deserve a huge HUG?  :D

 “There’s no better way to give the gift of glam this holiday season than with Bobbi’s personally curated Holiday Gift Giving Collection. With a selection of sets and palettes offered in a variety of flattering and festive shades, there’s something for every person and every occasion.”- Bobbi Brown

#KyleNash 's First OOTD

My baby AMW is definitely a big boy today!  Looking at his photo, I can't help but reminisce on that moment when I held him in my arms --- all 4.2lbs of him!  Yes, he was underweight and super fragile.  Looking at him today, I want to give Mr. AMW and myself a pat on the back for a job well-done!  Yes, first-timer parents here but we're doing a great job!  (In my very humble opinion :P)

As I browse through KN's photos, I chanced upon this cute OOTD photos of him that I want to post!  Dear AMW friends, do not expect me to do a series of KN's OOTD ha?  It is VERY difficult to take outfit shots of a very active toddler!  *laughs*

But that fateful day when I took my parents and brother to Hot Star, as we were waiting for our orders, Kyle grabbed his dad's phone and did this pose...thankfully, we are quick, and took this shot!  

The photo says: "Please do not text or take calls or DAYDREAM about Crispy Chicken when you are crossing the street!" 

Ayan, pang safety ad ha!  That's a public service from KN!

Readers' Corner: Q&A Portion to Jumpstart 2015

Hi AMW friends!
Today, I will be answering some queries I get from my email!  I think I have to do this or else, I will be loaded forever!  :P  Don't get me wrong, I am very happy with all your emails because that keeps me going!  If you wonder how I get the time to blog?  That's for you to find out *winks*  Just joking, I do so in between breaks!  When I have coffee break or right now, a Calamansi juice break! 

Reader Question #1

"What should I invest on aside from makeup kit and brushes if I plan to pursue a career in makeup artistry?"

AMW Answers:

Okay, my answer may probably surprise you but I can actually  put this in an "Unsung Hero" post.  After years of doing makeup, I realized how important Z-Palette is (or any customizable palettes available in the market) for a PRO MUA like me!  Especially when I started to go on gigs on my own, lugging a huge Zuca bag, it is very difficult to transfer from one place to another (ALONE) with a luggage full of makeup, a huge mirror and a bag!  

I first "depotted" all my face powders and transferred it to my first Pink Z-Palette and I realized not only does it help lessen the load of my kit, it is very easy for me to do retouch as I only need to carry 1 palette instead of 6 compacts!  

I got more Z-palettes and I plan to depot some of my blushes and contour/highlight powders!  

I got my 2nd Z-palette online via Shopping District. 

Reader Question #2
"Nikki, can you recommend a lipgloss brand that has wide range of colors just like MAC but lesser the price tag?"

Koji Brow Specialist in Soft Brown Review

Last year, when my brother told me he will be staying in Hong Kong for a couple of days before coming back home and asked me what I need, my mind turned blank because stores after stores of Sasa and Bonjour flashed inside my head!  How I missed store hopping!  

So I told him, any "brow mascara" that is light brown!  During those times, there aren't much light colored brow products except "Girl Boy" from MAC!  So I asked him just to pick from any brand as long as the shade is light!  

Thanks to WhatsApp, he showed me pictures after pictures of brow mascaras and I gave him a big YES when I saw this!

 Aren't I lucky to have a such a good brother who don't mind getting in Sasa stores and ask for brow mascaras from SAs?

What caught my attention aside from the fact that the shade is PURRFECT (Soft Brown) is the size of the wand!  3mm!  The smallest brow mascara wand I own to date! 
And the brand?  KOJI --- Koji is a well known brand who also owns the famous Dolly Wink (and some more!) 

AMW Reviews: Maybelline Baby Skin Pore Eraser

Good Morning AMW friends :)

I just want to say, my 2015 started off a bit "off", my house help/semi-yaya decided to leave without prior notice so yes, I'm a full-time momma trying to squeeze in work when toddler AMW naps!  It is VERY difficult I tell you, but hey!  I'm still here, de-stressing and relaxing my muscles with a good cup of tea before I hit the sack!  

I just realized, a lot of you have been waiting for my Maybelline Baby Skin Pore Eraser review which I originally thought I'm done with the review!  Sorry :)

"Is it the same as Benefit Porefessional?"
"How does it compare with Smashbox Photo Finish Primer?"
"Does this product work?  I want to know as this is inexpensive as compared to other primers!"

I will definitely give you a straight answer in this post! :)  Ready?  READY!

Maybelline says ---

Bye-Bye Pores!
One second away from smooth, poreless skin.

• Insta-blur technology visibly smoothes pores away.
•  Can be worn alone or under makeup.
•  Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free.

I Wonder: Which Philosophy Product/s Do You Love?

Philosophy has been around for quite some time but I was too busy using my well-loved brands/products that I kinda missed giving this brand a chance!  So when I received a cute floral box over the holidays with "What Do You Love" card that greeted me, I literally sat down, stared at the box (photographed below) unmoved....

What do I really Love?
Thankfully, I am blessed with good friends and family who showered me with love!  I am definitely one lucky girl (thank God) to have received all the love from family, friends and even people whom I haven't met in person (YOU!)  From there, I am able to give out LOVE without expecting anything in return. 

As I browse through the personalized card (Great Job Philosophy team and the agency for researching well), it was a "spot on" card that features "What I Love" --- my husband, my son and my Blogger friends.  

And that, came from a stranger who just browsed through my Facebook profile, probably my Blog site or Instagram --- they were able to come up with a conclusion on "Who I Love" and that got me thinking, if you love something/someone...it will really shine through as clear as a glass!  So why hide it?  Tell the world "What Do You Love" and "What Matters to you"  Life is too short to always play "safe" and keep secrets! :)

Ayan na naman ako sa mala-Advice blog na to! :)  Now going back to the brand, I am so happy to receive the top 3 brands that I actually want to try!

Weekend Food Trip at: Poco Deli

Funny how allergic we are (as a couple) when we read Kapitolyo as part of a restaurant's address.  But when our highschool friends, whom we haven't seen for more than a year "Viber-ed" us for a New Year's get-together and the restaurant mentioned is located at Kapitolyo, Pasig, we just had to be there so we used Google Map and realized it isn't that far as we thought!  I am sorry, for someone who has been stuck in traffic for almost 4 hours (one way) during the month of December, you can't blame us for being a "home body". 

That fateful day arrived and it took us less than an hour from Downtown Manila to Kapitolyo, thankfully, the meet-up was after Christmas Day so traffic was better!  With #KyleNash and Mr. AMW, we went in Poco Deli and immediately felt the place to be small yet cozy and never crowded!  Upon entering, I see ice cream stand with cheese and deli products --- ahhh feels like home to us!

L'Eau En Rose - New from Givenchy!

I don't know about you, but I love giving the gift of "fragrance". 

I can still remember the time I received my first ever "fragrance" gift, that was during my highschool years and all thanks to my best friend!  

The holidays maybe over but for me, gifting someone a scent would mean so many things --- 

• They mean the world to you.
• You want them to know how much you appreciate them, as a gift of fragrance is quite personal.

 And AskMeWhats will never get tired sharing to you what's new in the "fragrance world".  

Givenchy L'Eau En Rose

Just by the name, I have this feeling that a user who loves floral scent will definitely enjoy this!

L'eau en Rose is a floral musky composition with a warm heart and a touch of blackberry and soft musks.  The fragrance is like a delicious rose sorbet --- modern, pure and tender.

AMW Reviews: Etude House Sweet Recipe Baby Choux Base (Mint)

Over the holidays, I actually made a special stopover at Etude House SM Sta. Mesa just because I want to purchase some more Etude House items for review (based from requests) and also, I want to stock up on my favorite Proof 10 Mascaras, Proof 10 Eye Primer, Cotton Pads and Nail polish remover.  Nothing is more perfect than a 20% on everything sale! 

So yay!  I got some more Etude House items for review because ...malakas kayo sa akin :)

Today, first review of the year is dedicated to YOUR most requested product for review!  The Etude House Sweet Recipe Baby Choux Base in Mint shade! 

I actually checked the branch and saw these in a new tube packaging? (not sure if it is the exact same product)  But this glass packaging from the Sweet Recipe collection is still available in selected stores!  If you ask me, I'll pick the tube if I plan to use these on clients BUT, I am actually into bases nowadays so I'll go for the glass because it looks so cute on my vanity table!

Happy New Year from AMW Family!

Welcoming 2015 with positivity from my family to yours!   Thank you for the continuous love and support for my growing family (this blog, Mr. AMW and now Toddler AMW!).  

My 7th Year Blog Anniversary is coming up soon!  So please, don't get tired visiting www.askmewhats.com as I share to you my journey as a Make Up Artist, A wife, A daughter and now, a mom!  And can I also add, a cook? :P  (ahem, I'm getting better in that field a!) 

Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!
I just don't know how to express my gratitude for welcoming me in your daily life!
As I always say for the past 8 years --- Keep Smiling and Stay Happy!  Life is short so live like there's no tomorrow, tell the people you love how much you love and appreciate them!  Actions do speak louder than words but sometimes, words alone can uplift someone's spirit!  :)

God bless you! Again, Happy New Year!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!