Cathy Doll Triple Eyebrow Designing Review

Can we just stop and talk about Brows again?
You all know how #KilayIsLife and how I've been testing and trying different brow products from different companies/brands for the past ... ahm... decade?

Today, I will be sharing the Triple Eyebrow Designing product I had for months now from Cathy Doll.  This product is quite simple, a small palette with Light, medium and Dark brow shade that can also double up as an eyeshadow.

The shade I got and will review is 02 Natural Brown, it is also available in 01 Light Brown.

As for the packaging, it is quite straightforward, housed in a brown plastic rectangular packaging with a double-sided brush (angled brow brush and shadow brush), you can actually survive using only THIS if you are trapped in an island!  #lol

Product description

Maybelline Hyper Ink Liquid Liner Review

Since the arrival of wonderful liquid eyeliner pens, I didn't see myself touching a liquid liner that is housed in a "pot" and "applicator" (separately).  Holding the new Maybelline Hyper Ink Liquid Liner brought me back to so much good and bad "eyelining" memories.  The first one I tried was from Kate by Kanebo and I remembered poking my eye directly with the sharp brush seeing "black tears" rolling down my cheeks.  

Good 'ol pre-Blogging, pre-MUA memories.

Now that I'm confirmed to have steady-hands and a very good hands in ANY type of liquid liner application, holding this gave me that ultimate rush because I knew I will be getting somewhat a very precise, high intensity liquid liner --- and Maybelline Hyper Ink Liquid Liner gave me so much MORE!

The Hyper Ink Liquid Liner is housed in a very simple black and silver packaging with a long handled "cap" that I appreciate because I have better hold of the liner brush!

Maybelline Hyper Ink Liquid Liner Review Says ---

Get inked with a liner that does it all. Intense blacker than black pigments are highly absorbed by its unique flexi-cushion tip that gives extreme control. With a 12h smudgeproof formula, this eye liner will deliver bold and precise definition all day long.

I Perfected My Strobing Skills with NYX

I highlight and contour subtly on a daily basis, that's how I make my skin looks more healthy and radiant because I have naturally sallow (a.k.a. boring) skin.  I have roadtested so many contour and highlight products I knew which particular ones would give me the very natural and subtle effect while other products/brands can give me more drama.

But I wasn't ready for this particular "strobing" technique that I got after using the palette from NYX called NYX Strobe of Genius Illuminating Palette.  All I can say is that --- it is indeed a "genius" in the strobing department.

To those who are "used to" my usual "Product review photos", you can definitely see a major change in this!  

For goodness' sake, I don't even have any eye makeup on in this particular photo (only brows), but I love the way my skin looks, so healthy, so glowing, so 3D!

NYX Strobe of Genius Illuminating Palette

Php1,230.00

"Introducing the Strobe of Genius Palette, our incredible new collection of must have illuminators designed to give you everything needed to achieve today’s most buzzed about highlighting trend: Strobing. This breakthrough palette features seven velvety-smooth shades that will enhance your features with serious levels of illumination. The best part? Mastering the look is easy—all you need is a little extra natural light."

Of course, to complete the look, I added 2 NYX products, the NYX #No Filter Finishing Powder and NYX Two Timer Kohl Pencil Liner and Felt Tip Liner.

The Body Shop Camomile Waterproof Eye & Lip Make-Up Remover Review

The Body Shop Camomile Range is my ultimate favorite!  I haven't really raved about it a lot online but offline, I've told most of my friends and readers about it I almost act like a Camomile Ambassadress!

Read about The Body Shop Camomile range HERE.

Read my in-depth review on The Body Shop Camomile Silky Cleansing Oil here.

And recently, I saw a somewhat "newly packaged" Waterproof Eye & Lip Make-Up Remover and gave this another whirl.

The Body Shop Camomile Waterproof Eye & Lip Make-Up Remover Review Says ---

"This efficient make-up remover lifts away the most stubborn waterproof eye and lip make-up. Removes waterproof mascara and lipstick Gently removes all traces of make-up Fragrance, colour and alcohol-free Suitable for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers."

Pink Sugar Lip & Cheek Tints New Shades (Slay, Pillow Talk and Love Bug)

Pink Sugar recently launched 3 new Sugar Tints (Lip & Cheek Tints) and the names are so cute --- Slay, Pillow Talk and Love Bug.  Are the names inspired by millennial songs?

The 3 new shades have matte finish and as much as I would love to multi-talk these babies on my cheeks, I have dry skin so I seldom apply "tints" on the area.

The 2 shades Slay and Love But are more on the "pink" side while Pillow Talk has a brown hue to it, that's why I sandwiched the brown at the center for you to see the difference.

Found your favorite?

L-R Slay, Pillow Talk and Love Bug

I happily talked about my first impressions and swatched them on my IG stories the moment I received them!  Please follow me on IG @AskMeWhats and watch my IG stories because I usually share initial thoughts, unboxing and random tutorials!  (shameless plug...I know!)

Just by the mere look of the swatches, I was leaning more on the shade Slay (top swatch) and thought Pillow Talk would make me look like a walking dead.  But looks and swatches CAN BE deceiving!  I actually love all 3 shades and they all work for me!

AMW Cooks: Shrimp Lumpia

 "Lumpia" or fried spring rolls has always been my favorite dish even when I was younger!  As much as I cook this a lot, they always turn out differently because I never measure!  I always joke around that my dishes depend on the mood of the cook! 

Anyone can relate?

If you check out my AMW Recipes, you'll notice how much of a "meat" person we are!  Well, technically, we're not just carnivores, we love our veggies and seafood, but I am allergic to most seafood that's the reason why you don't see me cook them.

BUT, there are days I give myself a break!  I ordered a kilo of fresh (still moving) shrimps and decided to trick my family (and my allergies)!  :P

Ingredients:

• Fresh shrimps
• Ground Pork
• Onion and Garlic
• Salt and Pepper
• 1 egg
• Chopped carrots

Skincare For Startup MUAs

Getting these Pond's Goodies from my Sample Room family brought me back to so much memories.  I remember those times when I was just starting out (eons ago!)

This post is just a simple reminder on how anyone can chase after their dreams!  I used to dream to be a Professional Makeup Artist as young as 16 years old but because asking money from my parents was never an option for me, I went ahead to fulfill my dreams by being creative about the resources I have!

Even with limited budget, I make sure my KIT is packed with skincare products to help "prep" the skin of my clients!  I remember loving the Pond's White Beauty Day Cream and used it for the full 4 years of my college days and how I actually use it on clients!

Again, the brands of skincare you invest for your PRO KIT doesn't have to be this brand but this is to show you how you can try to use brands based from your budget, and better, if you ask your clients to prep their skin using their own products before the makeover!

Got all these from Sample Room.

Pond's Acne Clear Anti Acne Facial Foam

Best product for oily skin.  Even when clients who have oily skin advise me that they don't have makeup on, I still advise them to wash their face with a cleansing foam to remove excess oil and dirt.

Laneige x Lucky Chouette BB Cushion Whitening Review

BB cushions have been an "in thing" since (I can't remember, Lord help me!).  But one brand that got stuck in my head or in my opinion, started the BB cushion craze for me is Laneige.  

The first ever I tried is called Laneige Snow BB Soothing Cushion and the experience was great!   I've even bought refill after refills until other brands came out with their own Cushion I stopped buying just because I need to review other brands.

Then with Laneige Meets Fashion Laneige x Lucky Chouette, the cute "owl" printed on the cushion compact won my heart!  The design is limited yet so cute I can't imagine using a regular Laneige Cushion compact after this.  

In this collection, there are 2 types of cushions --- Pore Control (Black) and Whitening (Pink).

Obviously, I have Normal/Dry skin so I gave the Pore Control a skip and went ahead and used the Whitening variant.

Aside from the "new look" of packaging, I believe the product itself has been reformulated.

I've used this compact so many times I'm ready to share my thoughts on this Whitening cushion.

Laneige x Lucky Chouette BB Cushion Whitening Says ---

Brighten skin inside and outside with dual whitening care!
Laneige x Lucky Chouette  Whitening BB Cushion" makes skin look clear and bright.
Brightens skin without darkening!
The technology applied to cushion products for the first time! The double-coated sparkling coat™  pigment technology makes skin look bright with pearl and moisturized with water. 
Makes skin bright and clear inside once more! 
A whitening ingredient similar to Melacrusher of Laneige White Plus Renew Original Essence brightens skin inside once more. 
Close adherence to skin keeps skin bright longer! 
Super Flex Lasting™  Technology keeps skin bright all day long by increasing the adherence and lasting power of makeup. 

Etude House Big Cover Concealer Tip Review

Concealer, my ultimate favorite make up product for daily use because I tend to skip foundation especially since the weather is getting more humid by the minute!

One concealer that caught my attention last year was the Etude House Big Cover Concealer Tip, this BIG COVER range comes with its' own Cover Concealer BB with SPF50, a Cover Cushion Concealer and a stick concealer as well!  

I went for the Concealer Tip with a doe foot applicator because I find this to be the easiest and best concealer applicator for me especially when I'm in rush.

This comes in 2 shades: Beige and Sand.

I got sand hoping it will be "darker" than most Korean Concealers but it still looks a bit light on me!

Swatch: Sand

Since the shade is not as "warm" as I would like to cover undereye darkness, I use this on top of a corrector or a regular foundation just to "hide" the undereye darkness before I use the Big Cover Concealer Tip.

Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Launch

Make up for photography, how lovely when you perfected it yet how difficult to choose the right product/s to use.

With the launch of newest Ultra HD Line from Make Up For Ever, I can't imagine a more perfect way to test these products but a photoshoot with all harsh lighting!

The result?  I look like I am in my best skin condition (promise, make up lang talaga yan) and I don't look like I'm wearing any make up at all!

It was a quick and easy makeover done by Make Up For Ever artists, I get to get close and personal with each product applied/used on me.

Pixi By Petra Endless Silky Eye Pen in Graphic Greige Review

I have reviewed so many Pixi By Petra products in the past and one reason that made me love the brand is that most of their products are paraben-free, mineral oil-free, preservative-free and not tested on animals.  And the best part?  Most of the products I've tried and reviewed from the said brand got thumbs up from me!

There was actually a "delay" in review of this one particular Pixi By Petra product on my part because of the tiny seal of approval from "Top-Tested Beauty Awards" (See it in pink on box?).  Well, if it got that seal, it must be good!  So I actually didn't challenge the said product until I ran out of smudge-proof, waterproof and smear-proof eye pencil.  

Pixi By Petra Endless Silky Eye Pen

Php690.00

Available at www.glamourbox.ph

Pixi says ---

"Waterproof, super-long-wear, no-smudge, no-budge eye liners. They glide on like seamless silk, and in a single sweep motion create a flawless, solid jewel-toned line. No retouching required all day - or night!"

I got the shade Graphic Greige for review and this is surprisingly a unique yet perfect shade for those who dislike to wear black eyeliner especially during daytime.

Happy Skin x Disney Beauty and the Beast Moisturizing Matte Lip Kit

I grew up to be a non-Princess type of kid.  You see me chasing after kids playings "Touch Taya" or "throw the ball", "Patintero", "Touch the Wall" and worst (my husband still can't believe I did this), I climbed our house gate and people-watch!  And the gate is around 10 feet high!

Tomboy on the outside, I'm a Disney Princess at heart, I don't get to watch TV as my grandfather is really strict about his "apos" watching television but I get a good serving of Disney Stories with a casette tape and book to read along!  

One Disney Princess character I'm drawn into is Belle Gold also known as "Beauty".  She has the beauty not only on the outside but a golden beauty on the inside.

And it excites me to receive this Limited Edition Happy Skin X Disney Beauty and the Beast Moisturizing Matte Lip Kit priced at Php1,199.00.

Weekend Food Trip at: Pho Hoa Lucky Chinatown

We usually spend family time at Lucky Chinatown because aside from it being the nearest mall to us, it is a place where my son can actually have fun!

There's Kidzoona, Kyle's Barber Shop is also there, there's also a Toy Kingdom and an open area where he can walk around as he enjoys the view of colorful lanterns.

That said, we've tried almost ALL the restaurants in the mall and we actually have a favorite!

Pho Hoa is right across Toy Kingdom and we actually saw how crowded the restaurant is every weekend!  We've tried Pho Hoa restaurants in other branches so many times but this particular one is our ultimate favorite.

2 Reasons ---

• The food really tastes better in this branch.
• The servers are very attentive and helpful!  We have a favorite guy server who is super smiling all the time whenever he assists us, will have to get his name and update it here!

And we may order different dishes but we have our staples.

Vermicelli Bowl

Grilled Chicken, Veggies and Fried Rolls 

Large Bowl for php350.00

It comes with a good serving of their super yummy vinegar sauce!  We also love Pho Hoa's version of Fried Rolls we always order extra servings separately.

Pho Nam Bo Vien

Large Php315.00

Meatballs Pho

Very flavorful soup base and yummy noodles!

Gelish and Morgan Taylor Beauty and the Beast Collection Launch

 Beauty and the Beast is definitely one of my favorite fairytales, because the story focuses on inner beauty and that's what AskMeWhats has always been about --- Beauty In and Out.

In celebration of the Disney live-action version, gel brand, Gelish and its sister brand Morgan Taylor, release Spring 2017 Offering --- a Beauty and the Beast collection which composed of seven shades which are all inspired by elements found in both the original and new film.  

Because I believe in looking beautiful on the outside will translate to feeling beautiful on the inside, I knew it is high time for me to have another session of "Me-Time" before my 2 workshops commence!  

The launch was held at my favorite S Maison mall at Kallista, selected Bloggers and Media friends were there to try out the new collection.

 

Let's talk about the Morgan Taylor collection first, one thing that makes this collection unique is the shade Enchanted Patina (left most polish on photo below).  Enchanted Patina is a duo chrome shimmer that is somewhere between a coppery gold to a pink shade.  It can be worn as is or on top of the other shades from the collection to create a shimmery antique look!

Does Pixi By Petra Lower Lash Mascara Work?

Yes, even on someone who has less than 10 lower lash hairs.

No, I'm not joking, you'll see it after the jump!  Embarrassing to admit, but it's TRUE.  

The Pixi by Petra Lower Lash Mascara was available locally since late last year!  It took me awhile and a whole lot of thinking to test this because I NEVER apply mascara on my lower lashes because I have NONE!

BUT, the good thing about this is that, it does not only work as a Lower Lash Mascara, I actually got away using this on my upper lashes and this is why it works on me and for those who have the same issues as I do.

"Define and intensity lower lashes with this super separating mascara.  The ultra-slim, precision brush delivers perfect pigment along the lash line, lower lashes, and hard to reach inner lashes for effortless application.  Water-resistant formula, keeps lashes defined and in-place all day."

Max Factor Facefinity All Day Primer SPF20 Review

Hi AMW Friends!
After a long while, I'm finally posting a review for a face primer!  As much as I dislike to use face primers on a daily basis, I highly depend on them professionally as a Make Up Artist.

I lug so many primers because I use primers depending on skin condition of my clients.  And I personally test each of them before putting them in my professional KIT just because I want the best for my customers.

I got the Max Factor Facefinity All Day Primer with SPF20 last year, it took me a while to test this out since the weather is quite cool for the first 2 months of 2017, I had to wait for the weather to really get hot and humid before I can finally share my final thoughts.

Max FactorX Facefinity All Day Primer Says ---

The Facefinity All Day Primer from Max Factor is the secret to makeup that stays put the whole day. It contains micro-correctors to banish excess oil.

• Keeps makeup in place the whole day
• Mattifies skin
• SPF 20

Does Catrice Mattifying Powder Give Me The Healthy Look?

I use face powder more than any other "base makeup" on a daily basis.  Well, adding a concealer to that, I am drawn to purchasing more face powders and even more drawn to face powders that does not only mattify but gives a nice healthy glow.

Yes, I have dry skin, so that's the reason why I make sure to look for powders that does not enhance dry patches and this powder went through an AMW test!

Catrice Healthy Look Mattifying Powder Translucent in 010 Luminous Light

Catrice says ---

"Perfectly matt. The velvety texture with a translucent finish melts with the skin and adapts to all skin tones. A harmony of four shades gives the complexion a healthy and fresh look, providing the face with a soft and matt finish. The interaction of four colours results in a summery burst of freshness. Get the “back from holiday“ look!"

The Body Shop Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation Review

Hi AMW Friends!  Today, I will be reviewing The Body Shop's ONLY Cushion Foundation!  The fact that this is 100% Vegan excites me the most!  How effective/non-effective will this be considering it is safe for the environment?

I've tried this more than 2 months and I'm finally ready to reveal my thoughts....

I PERSONALLY LOVE THIS!

Check out my half-face photo using ONLY The Body Shop Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation in shade 02 Vanilla.  No powder, concealer even brow products!  For the purpose of review, I actually didn't blend the forehead portion for you to see that there really is FOUNDATION applied as the shade matching is quite good and it actually looks extremely natural on me (Like I'm not wearing any makeup at all!)  

On the side note, before I continue my in-depth review, I want to say THANK YOU to readers who compliment my skin SANS makeup.  THANK YOU!  As much as I want my reviews to look more effective (with zits and acne marks and all), it is one thing I am really serious about when it comes to beauty --- my skincare regimen!  I don't have deep-set eyes, sharp nose and small mouth, pagbigyan niyo na ako sa skin guys!  LOL

Back to regular programming..less talk Nikki, less talk! :P

The Body Shop Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation Says ---

Our multi-tasking Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation is packed with beneficial skin care ingredients in a portable and innovative design. Discover buildable semi-matte coverage for instantly smoother, shine-free skin and 24 hours of fresh moisture. Experience the freshness of a liquid foundation and the on-the-go practicality of a compact all with mess-free application.

• suitable for sensitive skin
• Non-pore clogging
• Designed with a built in mirror and pad applicator for easy on-the-go application
• Formulated with mineral pigments for lasting color
• Made with Community Trade Aloe Vera from Mexico
• Made with Community Trade Marula Oil from Namibia

Etude House My Little Nut Dear My Enamel Lipstick in RD305

Happy Monday AMW Friends!

I am sharing another lip color for you to jumpstart your lovely week!  I am so excited as this weekend is my workshop, first for the year 2017!   So definitely, my lip color should express what's in my heart, something cheerful, something happy!

The Etude House My Little Nut Dear My Enamel Lipstick in RD305 has been sitting on my dresser table for quite some time, I can't seem to put my heart to use it because of the lovely packaging.  But again, because I was looking for something "cheer-y", I finally put this to use!

Check out my Cheeky Big Smile!

"With the hybrid of moisturizing effects and beautiful vivid colors, the Enamel Lips Talk will leave your lips dead-skin-free and smooth for a long time." - Etude House

The Nutcracker theme is actually their Christmas Collection year 2016, I have to be honest, I'm unsure if they still have it in store but I'm sure the shade RD305 is still available!  (Edit: I checked Etude House website and they still have it!)

Out of the 7 lipsticks in the collection, I got this particular color as Christmas Gift and I couldn't be more thankful! 

The packaging is shaped the same as the regular pink tubes but this special edition have the gold details which I really love.

Swatch: RD305

RD305 is also known as Red Chilli Peppers, and true enough, the color is quite close to red chili peppers.  The coverage of this lipstick is surprisingly sheer so I have to apply a couple of times for this color to pop!  This can be a pro and con in my opinion!  A PRO for someone who is just starting out on red or reddish orange lip colors while a CON for those red lipstick lovers!  This color is actually a match for most women!  Whether you have fair, medium or dark complexion, this will look good on you!

The reason why I still feature this particular shade is because for the fact that it works for my dry lips! I don't mind applying 2-3 layers to get the shade I want as long as it does not dry out my lips or make my lips feel tight.

Personally, I wouldn't call this a red lipstick, this is more of a deep coral brown lip color.

The Etude House My Little Nut Dear My Enamel Lipstick is priced at Php598.00 available in all Etude House Stores nationwide.

How do you like this shade?

Will you wear such shade?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

 

Todd English Food Hall Review

I went to dine at Todd English Food Hall at SM Aura a couple of times for events.  The experience has always been wonderful so one fine weekend, I've finally decided to take my family to experience the good food I experience whenever I go to events.

We've decided to check out online reviews on what's the best food to order and we went for that, no need to think or decide!

We started off with ....

Calamari 

Php230.00

Deep fried tender calamari, chipotle chorizo dipping sauce

This is a MUST if you are a fan of calamari!  I like how it's soft on the inside (easy-to-chew) yet extremely crunchy on the outside.

Bold is Beautiful Project - Benefit Gives Back

"We are doing this not for marketing but just to give back..."

The words was stuck in my brain for the whole week after attending the Benefit Bold is Beautiful Project event.  Finally, a company who transforms brows (my brows to be exact) is not only making every woman feel beautiful on the outside, they are empowering women and girls on the inside through their global philanthropy program called: "Bold Is Beautiful Project".

Annie Ford Danielson, daughter and niece to the company's co-founders, Jean and Jane Ford, who is also the brand's Global Beauty Authority was here last Tuesday to explain the said project.

"Why Brows?"
"Benefit Cosmetics has been transforming brows since Jean and Jane opened their very first boutique in 1976.  Since then, millions of our customers have visited over 2,100 BrowBar Beauty Lounges worldwide and received a positive, uplifting feeling.  Through the Bold is Beautiful Project, we want every woman and girl around the world to feel the same way too."  explained Annie.

Erase and Rewind

How do I erase and rewind?

Well, aside from a quick staycation with the family, don't get me wrong, I do have "me-time" din naman!  And usually, "me-time" pertains to me spending 1 full day driving myself to my favorite "beautifying" places, kahit na opposite directions pa sila!  That's how worth the visit they are!

First stop:  NAILS

As much as I know how to do my own nails, I crave for that manicure pedicure session with a side trip of short-yet-sweet massages between cuticle care.  I usually do not go to any nail salons because I got hurt so many times with nail artists with heavy hands!  (If you can relate, pa-share naman your experiences here!)

I've had once where 8 out of 10 of my toes were bleeding from a super "robotic" nail technician who didn't seem to hear my complaints and screams!  I was too young back then so I just kept my mouth shut and bear the pain!

Obviously, I've matured (bakit ang haba ng kwento ko?  LOL), so I make sure to pick a place where they do not only take care of your nails, I have high requirements for staffs too!  They should be friendly, but also knew when to give you that much needed "quiet time".  

That's me with the friendly staffs of Nailaholics, Glorietta Branch.  Since I'm always in a rush, I always go for manicure and pedicure session with a quick polish application.

Of course, if you have more time than I do, feel free to try their other services like Foot Spa, Hand and Foot Paraffin and so much more!  They have packages for you to choose.

Then, there's brows!  I have my brows fixed at Benefit Brow Bar at least once a month.  Obviously, my schedule depends on where I will be so I actually rounded up all branches of Benefit Brow Bars and truthfully, I can't seem to pick a favorite as I get 101% good service from all the Brow Artists!  Holler to all the Benefit Brow Artists who has done my brows (ang dami nila!)  They are all super friendly, professional and really good!

Always ask them to shape and teach you how to do your brows after Brow Wax session.  I like how my brows changes PER brow artist, I get a good look on how my face changes on different brow styles and shapes!

SiliSponge Review

Silisponge or Silicone Sponge has been making rounds the internet for quite some time.  As much as I am a Beauty Blogger who is in-the-know on everything new.  I am actually not that into the idea of using a silicone product in applying makeup!  Just the thought of the texture (breast implant?) gave me the idea on how uncomfortable it is to use.

BUT, thankfully, I have angels out there!  Holler to Kara for sending me one because she wanted us to test it together!  The known brand is called Molly Cosmetics from Hong Kong but I'm unsure if this is the same one from the brand.  Judging by the look on photos online, it doesn't look any different and I doubt the original or a fake would make any difference, they are made with nothing but Silicone with an outer shell called TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane).  

I actually used this so many times to finally write this post!  So are you excited to know if this "fad" is worth to try?

Of course I won't tell the answer now, so don't hold your breath!  I want you to read the whole article...pretty please? :D

A lot of fellow Beauty Bloggers worldwide compare the Silisponge like that of a silicone boob insert --- well, I do not know as I never use those, alam niyo na...don't need it!  #NOTBlessed !!!! hahaha  

Back to the Silisponge, I own several Beauty Blenders, so I will give my final say at the end of this post if this is indeed BETTER than Beauty Blenders or regular sponges.

The Silisponge has a non-porous surface which the product boasts to let you use half the amount of foundation as it won't soak any of it.  When it comes to cleaning?  It is extremely easy to clean you only need soap and water or at times, I just wipe it off with a makeup cleaner.

Maybelline #PowderYourPout Powder Mattes Lipsticks Launch

How does it feel to stand beside our country's up and coming model signed on to Wilhelmina Models (One of the biggest global modelling agencies)?  Surprisingly awesome!  In just a quick photo-op, I get to chitchat a bit with this girl and learned how down-to-earth she is!

She whispered: "So what does Maybelline PH Squad gets?".  "An exclusive preview of Maybelline's newest products to be launched before it hits the market." I softly responded.  And she exclaimed: "WOW!  That is so cool!"  

Seriously Kelsey!  Your job is way "cooler" but you made me feel like I have a better job than hers!  That's how crazy simple this gorgeous girl was!  No wonder Maybelline handpicked her to be their latest endorser and I can understand why.

She is a type of model who struggles to balance her schedule between University studies and work and stays true to herself and manage the embrace the life she has chosen --- no complaints!

I love this girl!



Aside from launching Maybelline's newest endorser, it was also the day I get to try the first ever lightweight matte lipstick called Maybelline Powder Mattes.  Wore one during the shoot and indeed, it felt lightweight, like I'm not wearing any lipstick at all!

As you all know, matte lipsticks are in since the start of Beauty Blogging, I remembered swatching the first matte lipstick that made my lips look like the most expensive crocodile-skin to inserting "Eureka Moments" post on matte lipsticks that can actually work for my parched lips!  

Until today, I am still on the lookout, like what my Beauty Blogger friend Phoebe would say: "Nikki, if you say it isn't drying, we know it will be good!"  She knew my quest for the best non-drying lipsticks and I'm definitely putting the new Maybelline Powder Mattes to test.

Found A Super Natural Blush in Essence Satin Touch

If there's ONE blush that I have to keep-safe even if it expires, surprisingly, I have an answer.  It would be the Mineraux Skin Perfecting Minerals Beach Tan Bronzer.  Oh, I blogged about that bronzer/blush 2009 and it has been what?  8 Years?

True enough, if you open my make up dresser, you'll see this tiny pot of Bronzer until this very day.  There is just ONE big reason why I kept it until this day and probably longer.  Okay, there's 2!

1. It really looks good on me and I feel great wearing it.

2. This was the blush I wore the day before my mom went through her surgery which turned out to be really bad (related post: How to deal with Depression and my personal story), she complimented how nice the color of my cheeks was and I clearly remembered how I did not mention it was because of the blush and accepted the compliment like I was a natural Goddess!  *hahaha*

During one of Bhagi's Shopping Event, I chanced upon an Essence Cosmetics counter and took ONE look at this particular blush, didn't do any swatching, and just knew the shade is right (and very similar to the Mineraux Beach Tan Bronzer that I like which isn't around anymore by the way), I picked this last piece and knew I made the right decision when I saw this photo.

Okay, it isn't exactly the same, the Mineraux one has better sheen while this particular blush leans more to the demi-matte finish, I still find this the closest blush that I would love and keep close to my heart.

Essence Satin Touch Blush in 20 Satin Love

Php149.00 (approx $3.30)

Be Your Own Make Up Artist With Make Up For Ever Artist Acrylip

Before 2016 ended, I had a quick get-together with Make Up For Ever Philippines team and learned they have something exciting to offer comes 2017.  The Make Up For Ever Artist Acrylip Lip Paints!

These are liquid lipsticks that are non-sticky, non-drying and have a soft to glossy finish. No matter how non-drying a lip product is, no matter what other Beauty Bloggers say, it always turns out differently on me because of my extreme dry-lipped situation.  So for you, I tested 2 of the shades.

Left: Shade 201 Fuchsia Pink

Right: Shade 400 Iconic Red

Packaged in a squeeze-type tube, it comes with 7ml of product.  It comes with a sponge tip applicator wherein you need to squeeze the product out.  As much as I like the cute applicator, I like to use a separate lip brush in application for hygiene purpose and of course, a more precise application since both colors are extremely bright and heavily pigmented.

Swatch

Shade 201 Fuchsia Pink is almost a neon pink with cool undertone.  I usually do not look good and look well on cool undertone bright pink lipsticks so I don't even dare wear this alone!  Medium to darker complexion girls may give this a try!  It'll look great on you!

Shade 400 Iconic Red is a bright medium red shade.  It is indeed very bright with a subtle hint of warm orange upon application.

Somerset Millennium Makati

What is my idea of a "rewind" and "reset" from all my busy schedule?

Spending time with the family for sure!  No, it's not completely "relaxing" per se but I like spending time with them with a "staycation" or just be anywhere as long as it is with them.

As I worry about me and my son's "separation" before my Bangkok trip, it was a perfect timing to spend that weekend (before I leave the country) with him, letting him explore new places, new environment.  Just because, I want him to know there are so much more in this world!

Again, it wasn't as completely relaxing (as moms can relate) BUT, Somerset Millennium Makati was able to reset all the tired buttons --- will let you know how they were able to manage it.

Let me start by talking about the property first.  Located at the heart of Legaspi Village in Makati City, it is walking distance to Legaspi Park, Restaurants, Greenbelt Mall and you can even join Legaspi Sunday Market (which I always wanted to visit but my house is quite far!)

I will be very direct with the requirements of the room.  I used to be "Okay" with any rooms, but since turning into a mom with an active toddler who has a lot of preference, I am very particular with the "cut" of the rooms.  I prefer bigger space, lots of sunlight and of course, a bed big enough for a kid who prefers to lie down horizontally.  Most importantly, it must have "homey" feel so my son won't go screaming his head out shouting: "Let's Go Home!" if the place looks too "stiff".

Ang daming requirements no?  I KNOW....but thankfully, Somerset Millennium Makati passed our standards and actually gave us so much more!

The room we stayed in is a One-Bedroom Premier.  The room has undergone renovation giving the room a more contemporary-feel.  I love the extra jazz of modern furniture.