Friday, August 31, 2018

How I Manage To Look Fresh All Day!





I know every woman should be proud of their skin!  Everyone is extremely BEAUTIFUL!
But to keep that gorgeous looking skin sent from above, we need to take care of it.  And so far, I think I was a bit late in the skincare department (I was 28 years old when I started caring for my skin) and it is my personal duty, to share to everyone that you do the same (the earlier much better).


I know genes play a huge role when it comes to good skin, but based from personal experience, when I gave birth to Kyle and was breastfeeding, I stopped using skincare products altogether for almost a year!  It was a wake-up call when I finally took a good look at the mirror (with good lighting) and saw all the lines, redness and dry patches peeking through.  I was shocked on how a year can do so much difference.

Today, I'm back with vengeance, taking care of my skin more than ever is a life mission (okay, that's exaggeration but you get my point!)

Thankfully, it has been paying off, I have been getting compliments on how fresh my skin look, how my skin looks younger than my age!  

This is my daily face, concealer on the undereye area, lip balm and maybe a bit of eyeliner on non-lazy days!  But this is basically my skin - this is my second best skin to date (first would be my baby skin! lol)


It was also perfect timing I was invited by Cetaphil to do a talk during the #7DaysOfCetaphil event held last week.  My task is to share to the audience what I do to maintain good skin.




Thursday, August 30, 2018

Eureka Moment! A Nail Hardener Plus MORE!



I know I've talked highly about Girlstuff for so many years now!  Even way before I get to meet the owner, I was a proud user because I love the fact that these polishes are safe for my nails!  They are indeed gentle because I can leave them for quite some time and my nails won't turn yellow.

I love Nail Revive so much, it is the product I used when my nails was murdered by a nail technician when I was randomly looking for a place to remove my gel.  It lives up to its' name --- Nail Revive --- my nails were back to normal in a week or two.

Now, EUREKA MOMENT (Nails Edition)!

I've found another Girlstuff product that's worth the space on my blog (and mention).  They introduced their newest nail care product called Girlstuff Nail Hardener this month and I've been using it a lot - not just as a nail care product but as a polish!  

Remember those times you were looking for a perfect nude-colored polish to complete that French Tip?  Or you are a type who don't like to wear color but wanted to clean digits look?
THIS IS THE ANSWER!

And guess what?  They also keep your nails harder and stronger!


And I realized, I put in so much "exclamation points" in this post because I am THAT excited!

Girlstuff Nail Hardener strengthens and hardens our nails with the help of Keratin.  A coat of Nail Hardener can build a second nail protection. It really helps because I my thumbnail recently cracked at the center!  And I immediately applied 2 coats of nail hardener upon arrival in the Philippines, and here I go typing away like there's no issue!


Any Eureka Moment from you guys?
Share naman!


Girlstuff Nail Revive is available at Girlstuff outlets and online www.girlstufforever.com .

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

Estee Lauder Double Wear Nude Review



I LOVE Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In Place Makeup.  I even hailed it as a liquid foundation that can be used daily considering the coverage it gives, the longevity and how it works for all skin types!  

When I got my hands on the Estee Lauder Double Wear Nude Water Fresh Makeup, I tried it for several days right away!  Because this is said to be water-proof yet it can make the skin look fresh, natural, healthy, even-toned and best of all?  Has a 24-hour staying power (according to the brand)!


Estee Lauder Double Wear Nude Water Fresh Makeup
Php2,400
Shade on spotlight: Tawny


The fresh-feeling makeup offers the look and feel of flawless skin plus real protection and 24-hour staying power. The water-light fluid formula moves comfortably with your skin for a fresh, natural, healthy, and even-toned appearance. With SPF 30 and antioxidants, it’s your invisible defense against environmental damage from UV rays and pollution. It hydrates continuously upon application with a moisture complex of red fruit extracts, including watermelon, lychee seed, and apple. In a variety of shades for all skin tones, it is your secret to beautiful skin.

Tuesday, August 28, 2018

Althea Real Fresh Skin Detoxer Thoughts




A Skin Detoxer set (meaning 2 tubes) for a Thousand Pesos?
That's a steal right?  So I immediately tested Althea's Real Fresh Skin Detoxer in Green Tea and Rose.  I tried mostly the Green Tea variant and recently went for Rose just because...well..read on!

a photo of Althea Real Fresh Skin Detoxer review in Rose and Green Tea by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Real Fresh Skin Detoxer Set in Rose and Green Tea
150ml each for Php990.00 a set (Less 10% off as of the moment of checking)
Available HERE
a photo of Althea Real Fresh Skin Detoxer review in Rose and Green Tea by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

The hustle and bustle of the urban life mean non-stop hectic schedules, but that doesn't mean you can't give your skin the lovin' it needs! Althea's Real Fresh Skin Detoxer is a 10-second, 2-in-1 cleanser pack that showcases real, fresh ingredients and incorporates them into a system that allows a deep, clarifying cleanse while boosting the skin with nutrients and goodness. You’ll get both editions in this set: Rose (made with French rose petals + extract to refine the skin) and Green Tea (contains Jeju green tea leaves + extracts to purify). This product leaves the skin feeling fresh and looking smooth for a healthy, happy complexion!

Monday, August 27, 2018

Cloud Cosmetics Minty Matte Stick Rouge Review




Hello Monday!
Let's get back to the basics shall we?  


Do you still remember your first tinted lip balm as a kid and you feel like a princess whenever you swipe it on your lips showing a bit of that lovely color?

Well, I kind of had that flashback when I first laid my eyes on the Cloud Cosmetics Minty Matte Stick Rouge, though I was transported back to childhood days, I came right back to the future after my first swipe.


What is this really? 
A tinted lip balm?  A lip balm? Or Lipstick?


a photo of Cloud Cosmetics Minty Matte Stick Rouge Review by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Cloud Cosmetics Minty Matte Stick Rouge (MMSR)

Php120.00 

a photo of Cloud Cosmetics Minty Matte Stick Rouge Review by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

LIP BALM BUT BETTER.MMSR is a super pigmented lip balm with a supreme matte finish and powdery feel texture. It is long-wearing, smudge-resistant, no-shine, water-proof, minty stick. Think of it as the hybrid of a lipbalm and a liquid matte lipstick. Made with clean, healthy ingredients, MMSR is cruelty-free and paraben-free.

Sunday, August 26, 2018

Revisiting Oedo Japanese Restaurant, Banawe



If it's a non-working Holiday, we make it a point to really enjoy it as HOLIDAY.  
We may still be in the Metro but we make sure to do everything in our might to finish off whatever tasks left undone and celebrate in a simplest yet most memorable manner - with the help of food of course!

One of our favorite Japanese restaurant hidden at the corner of Banawe is called OEDO Japanese Restaurant.  The first time we dined there, it took us 20 minutes to wait for our seat and it was dinner time.  So we've decided to eat during off-peak hours because we wanted to enjoy the not so crowded restaurant for a change!




 We tried to order something we never ordered before, but of course, we came back for some favorites still!  Like this Takoyaki Balls!

Takoyaki
Octopus Balls
Php100.00
It will take time for them to prepare this so make sure you order something else and leave a space in your tummy for freshly made Takoyaki Octopus Balls just like those in Japan!

 

Saturday, August 25, 2018

#KathXHappySkin Launch



Kathryn Bernardo dropped a "makeup bomb" when she added a new title to her growing list of achievements.  She collaborated with Generation Happy Skin for her own line.  This collection is pleasing to the eyes because the packaging exudes a youthful and simple look.  The pastel packaging gives off a minimalist vibe which is what Kathryn embodies --- a very simple girl.

That's not all, Kathryn Bernardo represents Morena and she anted every shade in Generation Happy Skin to flatter a wide range of skin tones.  And because she wanted to reach out to EVERYONE, the price points are lower and nothing is above Php499.00! 

Are you ready to know more about #KathXHappySkin ?

a photo of Generation Happy Skin #KathXHappySkin Launch by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Products: 

  • Stay Fresh Weightless Pressed Powder (Php499.00) - Available in shades Light Beige, Medium Beige and Natural Beige. This product covers up imperfections while maintaining a natural finish.  Kath wears Medium Beige.
  • My Lips But Better Ultra Matte Lippie in Authenticity, Courage, Moxie, Spun and Wonder (Php399.00) - Lasts for long, hydrates for long.  Kathryn's Favorite shade is the peachy Spunk.
  • Kiss & Bloom Water Lip & Cheek Tint in Dainty, Fearless, Prim and Serene (Php299.00) - Highly pigmented with a natural watercolor finish.  
  • Instant Glow Longwear Powder Blush in Freedom and Love (Php399.00) - Gives a blendable, radiant-looking flush.  
  • Extra Drama Volumizing Mascara (Php499.00) - For dramatic, yet natural-looking lashes.  Mascara is a must for Kath and it took 3 sample passes before she gave her go signal.
  • Perfect Brows Long-lasting Liquid Pen (Php399.00) - a universal brown color that has sweat proof formula.  

a photo of Generation Happy Skin #KathXHappySkin Launch by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Friday, August 24, 2018

Claudia Schiffer Blusher Blush Review



An easy pick-me-upper makeup, when you don't have time to do your brows and maybe apply eyeliner or eyeshadow is --- BLUSH!

Applying a good colored blush that complements your skin will make people focus on your cheeks!  Just like this blush from Claudia Schiffer! 

Of course, having a perfect base will make your blush appear even better but just in case you're in a rush, try this!
a photo of Claudia Schiffer Blusher Blush Review in shade Hot Sand by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Claudia Schiffer Blusher Blush 
Shade: Hot Sand
Php1,650.00

a photo of Claudia Schiffer Blusher Blush Review in shade Hot Sand by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Nail Art Tutorial: Falling Petals by Happy Skin Express Gel Polish x KC



KC Conception is an Actress, TV host, Jewelry Designer and so much more. 
I am not surprised when she collaborated with Happy Skin Gel Polish to create her own collection.  I mean this girl is a Jane of all Trades!  

So I got my hands on the two shades from the limited edition collection.  These shades were personally chosen by KC herself inspired by her favorite flower: The Rose. 

I created a very simple nail art design inspired from the bottle and the design printed.

I call this Falling Petals.

a photo of Happy Skin Express Gel Polish x KC Concepcion Power and Beauty nail art design by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Step 1:
Apply 2 coats of Beauty.  Beauty is a luxurious apricot color, a striking modern nude.

a photo of Happy Skin Express Gel Polish x KC Concepcion Power and Beauty nail art design by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

The polish itself gives off high shine.  1 coat is enough to cover your nail base but I always like 2 coats for extra boost of color!  Let dry.

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

CRE8SKIN Salmon Oil Cream Review




An all-in-one skincare product that targets dryness, darkness, wrinkles, dark circles, spots and even freckles?

Sign me up for that!

If you are into Korean Skincare products, you've probably heard about this brand.  As for me, this was new to me so I did research prior to testing this out.

This product is said to be used on the last step of your skincare regimen.  Before I talk further about my experience using this, what is Salmon Oil and how does it help your skin?


a photo of CRE8SKIN Salmon Oil Cream Review by Askmewhats Nikki Tiu

Salmon Oil is rich in Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Anti-oxidants like Vitamins A and E, these ingredients help slow down aging, cell damage and prevent wrinkles as it hydrates your skin.

The CRE8SKIN Salmon Oil Cream is housed in a gorgeous packaging.  Call it chic from plastic container to the packaging itself!  It is actually quite heavy and comes with a "spatula".


a photo of CRE8SKIN Salmon Oil Cream Review by Askmewhats Nikki Tiu


Only one of the world's top 10 super foods, salmon! Salmon is a product made from oil extracted from salmon. Salmon contains a large amount of omega-3, which is known to be good for preventing health and skin, namely, stinging, freckles and dark circles. In addition, salmon oil cream as a supplementary ingredient, salmon roe, Cayle (sturgeon), L22 (US patent) ingredients and seaweed is added together to maximize the efficacy of salmon oil. In addition to functional whitening and wrinkle enhancement, this product is excellent for prevention of dark circles, spots and freckles due to the salmon's characteristic properties. Moreover, it is enough to use this product without using eye cream around wrinkled eye area (80g) higher than the existing cream formulations of the same type without the lack of capacity, making it possible to concentrate on the whole face and around the eyes.

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Beauty Blender InstaClean Review



I love my Beauty Blender Sponge so much nothing compares to it.
But heres the thing, even with my expertise in makeup tools cleaning, I am opening up my heart to you right now, for the first time, with this statement: "It is freaking hard to clean!!!"

So after years of taking a photo of that perfect pink newly purchased Beauty Blender just because it won't look like that again, I am so happy to announce that the brand finally came up with their own Beauty Blender Instaclean!  A Waterless Sponge and Brush Cleaning Spray!


a photo of Beauty Blender InstaClean review by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Here's how my Beauty Blender looks like even after washing with soap and water + cleansing oil.  It just doesn't do the job right?

Read on to see if this is indeed a magic in a bottle!

a photo of Beauty Blender InstaClean review by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com


Beauty Blender InstaClean Says (lifted from BeautyMnl.com) ---
A waterless, quick drying, and no-rinse sponge and brush cleansing spray
Cleans your BeautyBlender and makeup brushes instantly; allows you to instantly switch from one product to another; does not affect color application; comes a travel-friendly size; has an alcohol-free formula; contains a subtle calming scent of lavender

Monday, August 20, 2018

J.Lo x Inglot Lipstick in Dolce




When Jennifer Lopez announced her makeup line with Inglot and dropped them all at once with a complete Eyes, Face, Nails, Lips and even included her own collection of Freedom Palette (70-pcs. make up collection to be exact), my inner Beauty Geek was screaming like a child.

Why?

I've always told Mr. AMW how I love J. Lo's makeup looks!  From her music videos to movies, her makeup is always ON POINT!  And one look that I really want to achieve is her gorgeous dark eyes and nude lips!  

I blame her tan, golden skin, she can wear any nude lipstick and look Fab!  As for me, I have to pick the right shade of "nude" for me to look a quarter of that J.Lo "fab-ness".  Thankfully, with her lipstick line with shades handpicked by none other than J.Lo herself, I've found a perfect nude color called DOLCE.

Let me work it for you *winks*

a photo of Jennifer Lopez Inglot Lipstick in Dolce Review by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Jennifer Lopez x Inglot Lipstick
Php1,195.00
Available at: Inglot Stores  Glorietta, SM Megamall, Trinoma, and SM Mall of Asia.

a photo of Jennifer Lopez Inglot Lipstick in Dolce Review by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com
 "Give a kiss to your amor, amor, amor.  Create beautifully luscious lips with rich and sensual colors.  The lip protecting formula provides incredible coverage, allowing you to create bold, unique looks by layering shades.  The application is even and effortless, with a longlasting and non-sticky effect.  Get creative and blend shades for multi-dimensional color."

Sunday, August 19, 2018

Fuwari Cheese Cup by Kumori Review



So this is how it feels like to #BiteIntoClouds .

Well, I'm sure clouds are tasteless but not with Fuwari Cheese Cups by Kumori, let me tell you early as now --- it is a scoop-full of Happiness!  (Seryoso)


Kumori won my heart when my sister-in-law gifted me Kumori's Special Hanjuku Cheese.  I never looked back and seriously, no other brand comes close as of the moment.

So when I saw the buzz online about Kumori's newest addition to the family - the Fuwari Cheese Cup, I knew I have to (literally) dip my fingers and spoon to it! 



According to Kumori ---
"This velvety cheese souffle paired with a crunchy biscuit base is sure to be the perfect pick-me-up, no matter what mood you're in."

Saturday, August 18, 2018

Dr. Morita Sheet Masks: Which One Is For You?



There are so many mask brands launched locally but one brand I really want to get my hands on and try it out is called Dr. Morita --- it is said to be the number 1 best-selling sheet masks in Taiwan and Hong Kong and known for making affordable yet quality skin care products. 

a photo of Dr. Morita Sheet Masks launch at Manila House Private Club By Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

One of their top selling mask is called the Hyaluronic Acid Essence Mask which surprised me a lot when I learned that it was sold over 100 million to date!  (That's the one in blue box!)  

a photo of Dr. Morita Sheet Masks launch at Manila House Private Club By Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Let's talk about Hyaluronic Acid, what good can Hyaluronic Acid do for your skin?
Hyaluronic Acid is said to be a powerful moisture-binding ingredient that helps keep skin plump and hydrated. 
a photo of Dr. Morita Sheet Masks launch at Manila House Private Club By Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Intrigued?  Let me share more information about each variant ----


Friday, August 17, 2018

Achieving Healthy Skin With Cetaphil



Skincare is non-negotiable for me, I spend thousands of pesos testing and trying out different skincare brands just to help my dry, sensitive and sallow skin.

You've seen my journey, my beauty routine has always been an open book.  You've probably commented and DM'd me and I've told you so many times how investing and spending on good skincare products is the best investment you can give to yourself.

Does skincare products really have to be expensive for it to work on you?  Definitely NOT.

Through the years, I've tested various brands with different price range and one thing I learned is that your skin's bestfriend is not the most expensive products, instead, the skincare products that contain ingredients gentle to your skin is your best friend in helping you achieve that natural healthy and glowing skin!

I have really active lifestyle in a sense that I'm always out and about.  My daily routine consists of taking my son to and from school, go to the supermarket for groceries, go to meetings and events at various places in the Metro, do training on the side while I need to cook at home and help my son study!  You've seen that all on #AMWIGStories for sure!


In between the day, I have this habit of washing my face after coming home before bonding time with my son as he is such a sweet child who loves to hug, cuddle and kiss!  Aside from wanting my skin to be client-ready, I also make sure my skin is clean and ready for my son's hundreds hugs and kisses!

Thursday, August 16, 2018

Yves Rocher "Gris Profound" Look



Who would've thought I can create an eyeshadow look from a brand that is known for Botanical ingredients?

Well, to see is to believe, the brand actually creates good eyeshadow palettes I am so confused why I left it sitting on my vanity for the longest time!  One day, I wanted to create a daytime smoky eye makeup look and I saw the Yves Rocher Quad Sumptuous Color Palette in Gris Profound, this palette consists of Black, Gray and White which is a perfect quad for smoky eye makeup.

By the way, they have other shades available, they have blues, browns and purples.  

a photo of Yves Rocher Quad Eyeshadow Sumptuous Color in Gris Profound look.

Yves Rocher Quad Eyeshadow Sumptuous Colour
Available at SM Aura Store, TriNoma

a photo of Yves Rocher Quad Eyeshadow Sumptuous Color in Gris Profound look.

Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Cathy Doll Soft Brow Pencil & Spoon Brush Review



I am so in love with Cathy Doll's Skinny Eyebrow Pencil and I have been recommending them to my friends on and offline for a while now!  I finished a pen in less than a month and is currently using the second one --- yes, that's the ONLY downside, it is so skinny and wonderful I finished it so quickly!

I was surprised to see Cathy Doll getting into the brow game!  After the success of Skinny Eyebrow Pencil, they came up with another unique brow product.


a photo of Cathy Doll Soft Brow Pencil & Spoon Brush Review in shade Hot Carame Brown.

Cathy Doll Soft Brow Pencil & Spoon Brush
 #03 Hot Caramel Brown
Php450.00


a photo of Cathy Doll Soft Brow Pencil & Spoon Brush Review in shade Hot Carame Brown.

Create the perfect brows with the automatic pencil that features especially soft texture which is gentle to the brows. It glides on soft for line-by-line precision with natural result and allows you to draw a thick or thin line as desire. With the easy to draw, pigmented and long-lasting texture, it also comes with a fluffy spoon brush to facilitate blending for an even more natural result. Available in 4 trending colors.

Tuesday, August 14, 2018

Nail Art Tutorial: Sweet Fimo Nails (For Kids and Kids At Heart!)




Fimo nails started in the AMW household quite early!  It was year 2009 when I ordered online and had Mr. AMW manually cut them for me (Read FIMO CLAY HERE)

I've done several nail art designs featuring the Post Cut Fimo Clay here ---

And expect me to share more because, Girlstuff came up with pre-cut Fimo Polymer Clay and they are even cuter than ever!  So my nail art design is inspired by the cute clay and Kyle can't get enough of these!

a photo of Nail Art Tutorial: Sweet Fimo Nails (For Kids and Kids At Heart!) by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Step 1:
Apply a base coat to protect your nails.  Apply 2 coats of Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in shade Tipsy Gypsy.

Monday, August 13, 2018

Lustrous Lip & Cheek Tint Raw Review



Let's start by setting this straight : I have perpetually dry lips, the driest of all dry lips (I'm claiming that!) in the Beauty Blogging industry!  Because my lips chap and crack and bleed on some mornings whenever I yawn, let me know if you have the same I'll put you up on the top 3 list :P

When I chanced upon Nadine Lustre's Lustrous Lip & Cheek Tint, I have to test and use it right away because --- why not?  It's a collaboration with the country's top actress and for you to put your name to it, it must be good!

Unfortunately, not for this particular product --- don't get me wrong, I haven't tried ANY of the Nadine Lustre x BYS makeup so I'm just speaking on this particular product.

a photo of Lustrous Lip & Cheek Tint in shade Raw Review by Nadine Lustre x BYS

The color is beautiful on photos and I can actually achieve a fierce look with the shade RAW, but judging by the look on photo, you can see uneven patches on how the product clings on to my dear dry lips!  

But before that, I'm not stating this as a BAD product, it isn't --- if you have nice, hydrated lips!  Maybe, if you are into Korean gradient lips, this will also work because it does give a nice-looking stain!


a photo of Lustrous Lip & Cheek Tint in shade Raw Review by Nadine Lustre x BYS

AMW wears Lustrous Lip & Cheek Tint in 01 Raw
Php399.00

Sunday, August 12, 2018

Braised Tofu with Minced Pork and Shrimp Recipe


You all know I love my tofu, I cook Tofu dishes at least once a week and I've found the best Firm Tofu in grocery stores!  It's a Korean brand and so far, I've only purchased 1 out of 50 sour ones!  You all know sour tofu are boo-boo unless you are eating Stinky Tofu!

This is the exact brand with price lifted from Honestbee website via Robinsons Sueprmarket.



So here's my simple recipe but made a great impact to the family becaues of the fresh shrimps added!
Ready to know how to cook this simple dish?


Ingredients:
  • Firm Tofu
  • Ground Pork
  • Fresh shrimps cooked and peeled.  
  • Shrimp water (the water used to cook the shrimps)
  • Soy sauce
  • Hoisin Sauce
  • Onion and garlic
  • Pepper
  • Cornstarch slurry
  • Optional: Enoki Mushrooms
Steps:
  • Cook shrimps for 3 minutes max.  Lift the shrimps and peel them off saving the shrimp water.
  • On a separate pan, saute garlic and onions and add ground pork.
  • Add enoki mushrooms.
  • Pour soy sauce, hoisin sauce, pepper to taste and stir well, add a bowl of "shrimp water" (the one you used to cook the shrimps).
  • This is the time to taste everything and it is okay if it is a bit salty as you will add in shrimps and tofu later on.  The reason for adding Firm Tofu on the latter part is for them not to break from all the stirring.  As for shrimps, best to eat shrimps cooked just right, overcooked will lead to dry and hard-to-chew shrimps.
  • Once you're happy with the sauce, add cornstarch slurry, turn off heat and pour cooked shrimps and sliced firm tofu.
Voila!  You're done with the restaurant-tasting Braised Tofu with Minced Pork and Shrimps!

Have you tried this dish?
Do you order this dish in Chinese restaurants?



Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Saturday, August 11, 2018

Achieve Long and Healthy Hair Easily



My hair story is an open book.  
I color it, cut it in crazy layers, style it using all sorts of styling tools and even go on an annual rebond session --- yes, beautiful hair needs a lot of work for me, so if you have insanely beautiful hair without having to spend or do anything --- drop down on your  knees and thank the hair heavens!

As early as Freshman High, I knew that I wanted healthy hair because it is naturally dry, frizzy and "poufy".  I envy my sister's long, straight, shiny hair and wondered how sisters can have such different hair genes!  

One of the brand I really invested for my hair is Kerastase --- the brand and I had a loooooong history!  I told myself I'll purchase a Kerastase hair treatment when I got my first salary but that didn't happen --- becuase Mr. AMW (then boyfriend) was the one who bought it for me as gift!  Yes, our gift-giving does not circulate only on chocolates and flowers, Mr. AMW knew me too well to gift me such because he knew this is worth more than flowers and chocolates #RealTalk 




I have experimented a lot of hair color for the past years and I realized that my hair has been going through all those stress, it doesn't grow as fast as it did several years back.  So it was perfect timing when Kerastase launched their Kerastase Resistance Extentioniste range.

 This is the first hair program designed to optimize and reinforce the length of damaged hair.


Friday, August 10, 2018

Ask AMW: What's the Best Way To Moisturize Skin With Makeup On?



I probably shared so many times on #AMWIGStories on how much I love Face Mists!  I've used them all day long just to hydrate my skin keeping it hydrated all throughout the day!

But I've found another solution for those who wanted "brightening" aside from hydration.  Midday, most of us probably go through a stage where our skin looks dull, flat and just plain matte from all the powder retouching!  I've discovered another way to "wake up" our skin!

This is actually meant to be a skincare product but you know how your resident AMW loves to make a single product "multi-purpose".  Here's a quick tip on how to hydrate and keep your skin looking fresh and bright all day long!


With the help of Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Brightening and Soothing Treatment Water.


Please keep in mind that this product is meant to be a skincare product, best used before sunblock application way before makeup application too!  This is a dark spot corrective product so make sure you use sunblock whenever you use such product!

When used as skincare, it is best to apply on cotton pad and gently apply on skin.  When used as an "all-day hydration" product, apply a few drops on the palm of your hand, gently tab it on your skin like a gentle massage.

Thursday, August 9, 2018

Dermatory Azulene Gel Cream Review



You all know how I've been raving about the Dermatory Azulene Rescue Gauze Pad!
As of the moment, I have used up the whole tub and is planning to repurchase anytime I get to visit a Club Clio store!  It worked so well on my sensitive skin it actually "healed" it!  I'm not sure if it's all in the state of mind but I'm not letting that step go!

So after earning 2 thumbs up, I looked into the other products from the same line --- today, I am reviewing Azulene Gel Cream (Php1,200)!

a photo of Dermatory Azulene Gel Cream Review by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

This product is said to be best applied as your last step in skincare routine.  It contains Allantoin and Azulene which are excellent soothing and healing ingredients while help your skin hydrated all throughout the day.  Same as the Gauze Pad, it has the allergy-free formula proven to 53 subjects with 10 times test result!  And it is also formulated without 20 toxic ingredients to prevent skin irritation.

a photo of Dermatory Azulene Gel Cream Review by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Dermatory Azulene Gel Cream Says ---

  • Gel cream enriched with Cica content and Chamomile extracts which offer intensive skin care by soothing and protecting skin from external irritation.
  • Moisturizing and lightweight gel texture with Allergy-free formula offers mild, rapid absorption which is suitable for sensitive oily or neutral skin.

Wednesday, August 8, 2018

5 Healthy Nails Commandment



Search on Google on "Tips on How to Have Healthy Nails", you'll get a long list of articles telling you what you already know.

I know in my heart these tips but there are a few tips that are meant to be repeated because they really matter!  They matter because I forgot about these tips myself and have done some damage to my nails --- so Help Me, Lord..I am sorry my dear nails!

Now back to my tips!  Let's do this by number so it'll be easier for you to read okay?

Let's call these my version of a 5 Healthy Nails Commandment!

1. No need to cut your cuticles.


Top 1 commandment because I have been making the mistake of cutting my cuticles as early as highschool days!  And true enough, I am suffering from ugly cuticles (which you can see on most of my nail photos!).  My cuticles are dry and it looks thick and uneven whenever I missed a trip to the salon.  How to deal with thick and dry cuticles, go for my 2nd commandment.


2. Apply Cuticle cream or gel.
Once your cuticle is soft, gently push your cuticles with a cuticle stick and apply cuticle remover gel or cream and gently push your cuticles with a cuticle stick.  Most articles would stop from there, as for me, invest on a good hand and nail cream, yes I am highlighting nail creams because regular hand creams won't be enough!  Your cuticle needs extra pampering and that skin tends to be thicker than the rest of your body so you need an emollient cuticle product.

Tuesday, August 7, 2018

Easy Shadow Look Inspired by Kate Tokyo!



Do you currently own an eyeshadow palette you can't seem to use up?
I know I've thrown a couple of palettes away with shades I didn't even touch!  So sad right?


That said, I am keeping more of those palettes that are small, straightforward and most importantly...I can use them on a daily basis!  

One brand that I have been using a daily basis is Kate Tokyo and out of all the palettes they came up with, this new one called Smoky Round Eyes (php720.00) really struck me the most because I literally use all the shades in this palette whenever I use it!


a photo of Kate Tokyo Smoky Round Eyes in GN-1 Review by Nikki Tiu of askmewhats.com

GN-1
This is a great and unique alternative to those into nudes and browns.  To those who don't know, moss green is actually a great shade or alternative to browns for most Filipinas especially with brown eyes.  It makes your eye color pop more and it looks great on warm undertone.

a photo of Kate Tokyo Smoky Round Eyes in GN-1 Review by Nikki Tiu of askmewhats.com

How I would wear this naturally....

Monday, August 6, 2018

Let's Go To the Dark Side Shall We?




So I've been wearing nudes, pinks, MLBB shades for a couple of weeks now!  True to what my blog title says : "Let's go to the dark side shall we?"

I was sick last week, I didn't enjoy staying in bed the whole day doing nothing, I felt helpless, so now, I'm facing this week with a vengeance!  With a dark lipstick because why not?

Got the newest Flormar Silk Matte Liquid Lipstick from SM Beauty's newest deals from end of July until September!  Take note: Beauty deals and discounts on your favorite lipstick brands so head on to SM Beauty Section NOW!

Back to my lippie, do you like it?


a photo of Flormar Silk Matte Liquid Lipstick Review in shade Hot Cocoa by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Flormar Silk Matte Liquid Lipstick
Php349.00
Available at SM Department Stores

a photo of Flormar Silk Matte Liquid Lipstick Review in shade Hot Cocoa by Nikki Tiu of www.askmewhats.com

Shade: Hot Cocoa