Althea Pore Purifying Serum Cleanser

As an Althea Angel, I get to try newest products from the website firsthand.  

And one brand that I get to try is the brand Althea itself  After just a few years of success, it wasn't a surprise for me that they came up with their own brand.

One product I get to try is their Pore Purifying Serum Cleanser (Php430.00).

Combine the powers of a cleanser and serum with Althea's Pore Purifying Serum Cleanser! This beauty superhero whisks away makeup, dirt, and oil with mint extracts while ensuring the skin stays cool and hydrated throughout thanks to a dual moisture cell system that envelopes the skin in a serum-like formula. It prevents the skin from drying out and effectively minimizes enlarged pores, keeping it smooth to the touch. This product also helps to balance the pH levels of the skin to keep it working in tip-top shape! Best of all, it's gentle on the face and suitable even for those of us with sensitive skins. 

PeriPera Pearly Nights Ink Highlighter Review

I take my glow seriously, highlighting is integral especially for someone who has fair to medium complexion with sallow skin.  Highlighting just "fakes" perfect-looking skin!

One brand I've been using is called PeriPera.  They came up with their own highlighter from their Pearly Nights collection.  

I got 2 shades to test, I believe there are a total of 3 shades, I'm unsure if they sell all three in the Philippines but I got 2 good colors.

01 Lavender Space Beam and 

02 Pink Champagne Beam

Shade 1: Lavender Space Beam

This shade is meant for users who have cool skintone.

BLK Cosmetics Volume + lash Extension Mascara Review

I am off to a better start with my lashes.  I almost stopped using them year 2018 and this 2019, I plan to get back to my mascara game so lucky you!  I get to review them too! :)

Anne Curtis raved about her BLK Volume + Lash Extension mascara in one of her IG stories, true enough I saw her apply and her lashes went from WOW to EXTRA WOW!  That said, I was influenced to give it a try!

BLK Cosmetics says ---

 Swipe on your falsies! Enjoy the striking faux eyelash effect—minus the grueling application process—with this breakthrough mascara that gives your peepers instant pop star power. The unique curved brush grabs close to the root to lift and separate strands, while the intense, black formula lengthens and volumizes to lush perfection. It's absolutely smudge-proof when worn, but comes off easily enough with warm water.

INGREDIENTS: Water, Microcrystalline Wax, Cera Alba, Slyrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Copernicia Cerifera Cera, Palmitic Acid, Mica, Stearic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Amonomethyl Propanol, Nylon-6, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Hydrated Silica. May Contain (+/-) CI 77499

L'Oreal Infallible Forbidden Kiss Is a Showstopper

So I got sick, well, semi-sick, then Kyle got sick so I didn't get the chance to be sick, then Kyle got well, I got sick again.  But I had to fight it as Kyle isn't completely well.

Confusing first paragraph and a whole lot or redundancy right?  Well that's how I feel about my sickness right now, a bit redundant, it just goes back and forth and I just wish for my body to be back to 100% same as my family!  

As you can see in my photo, I do look different, I look tired and sick so I've decided to power up on a bright lip color!  It does work focusing your eyes on my lips instead of the rest of my face..right?  I hope I'm right!

AMW Wears L'Oreal Infallible Pro Matte Liquid Lip Gloss

Shade: Forbidden Kiss

Php390.00

 
L'Oreal Paris Infallible 16Hr Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick is the only lipstick that gives up to 16Hr matte lips that looks the same throughout the day - as if you just applied it.  It doesn't dry out your lips and applies smoothly in one glide.
Mattest Matte but never drying.  With triple matte gel topcoat technology.  All-day, long-wear and comfortable matte finish.  Pro-sculpt applicator making it easy to apply because of the arrow-shaped tip making it easy to perfectly conour the edges of lips without making a mess.

Weekend Food Trip at: Flatterie and Rita's

Our weekends are pretty simple.  I spend it mostly with the family - Husband's family, My Family and Our Family.

So every minute of the day counts --- we try to make sure Kyle gets to enjoy childhood as much as he can because he's been studying 5 days of the week --- school Mondays to Fridays so we make it a point for him to enjoy over the weekend.

Kyle, just like the parents, live simply...a simple bonding time with Mom and Dad with good food and ice cream (of course!) is his idea of "Best day of my life!" 

Awww look at that excited face! Matitiis ba namin?

We love Pound and right beside Pound is a newly opened restaurant (well for us!) named Flatterie located at SM Mall of Asia.  You can order from both menus no matter where you sit.

5-Minutes (or less!) Hairstyle Video-torial

So I actually do a lot of makeup, skincare and haircare tutorials on my Instagram stories.  I call these #AMWIgStories and some of the most requested ones I put it up on IG Stories.  So if you have Instagram account, do follow me there #ShamelessPlug

I recently shared a super quick, 5-minutes or less hairstyle tutorial and alot have been asking me to post it on my blog because they want to easily look back with just a few clicks on the computer rather than scrolling and finding this particular video on IG TV.

Your wish is my command!  I shared it here!  My apology for a super amateur video but this is just me.....stripped away from glam squeezing some tutorial time while the kiddo is busy eating!

Please let me know if you want me to share some videos here!  Those that I think are worthy to share.  And oh, I do a lot of unboxing on AMW IG stories too so do watch out for that!

Share some love?

A hug?
A smile maybe?

Great day AMW friends!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

 

What's One Beauty Service You"ve Been Doing Through The Years?

My answer is quick and very simple --- Benefit Brow Wax Service!

Looking back, I can't believe how dependent I am with this service I actually tried almost ALL branches!  I know most bloggers have their favorite artists but for me, I've tried them all and they are all good in their own unique ways!  All I can say is that, I feel more confident and my brows are always on fleek when I step out of the Brow Bar!

I sport different types of makeup looks on a daily basis, different hairstyles and different OOTDs, but one thing remains, my love for well-defined, clean and well-groomed brows!

The Body Shop Matte Clay Powder Full Coverage Pressed Powder Review

I'm a face powder girl, correct that...I'm a powder foundation girl!  I only reach out for cream/liquid foundations or even cushions when I am off to an event or meeting.  But on days I only need to run some errands I go for powdered base products.

I recently tried The Body Shop's Matte Clay Powder Full Coverage Pressed Powder.  This is a bit unique for me as full coverage in my opinion always equates to powder foundation while sheer will always be the partner of pressed powders.

So this is unique, it does look like a regular pressed powder so how full is full coverage as described by the brand?

The Body Shop Matte Clay Powder Full Coverage Pressed Powder Says ---

Smooth over imperfections and achieve high coverage with our new breathable Matte Clay Powder available in 6 different shades. Enriched with Community Trade tea tree oil, this powder provides a high coverage matte finish for a clearer looking complexion. Wear it alone or on top of foundation for a flawless and even finish.

Benefit Roller Liner Eyeliner Review

I've worked with Benefit a couple of times for workshops.  One thing you'll always hear from me is: "When will you guys come up with a liquid liner?"

They always give me back that mysterious look: "Soon".

And that "soon" came latter part of 2018.  Though it was crazy busy month for me, I had to be there to witness the unveiling of Benefit's Roller Liner Eyeliner.

Benefit Roller Liner Eyeliner

Php1,460.00

Available in Black and Brown

Glide on a natural-looking, fine line with Roller Liner! Our matte liquid eyeliner features a precision felt tip for sharp controlled lines and a super-smooth application that won’t drag or smudge. The quick-dry, waterproof* formula lasts 24 hours**. It doesn’t fade, flake or smudge so you can let the good times roll all day & night!

Starting the Week Right

Everybody thinks Monday is the most stressful day of the week.

Not for me, Monday is actually the most relaxing day of my week because the crazy busy schedule starts on a Tuesday!  

Traffic is crazier, the schedule of my son and my work schedule gets packed on a TUESDAY.  Well it starts on a Tuesday and goes crazier by the week.

So yes, I took the effort to write a blogpost about it because, Today is TUESDAY and I need a huge hug!

For style, I make sure I look made-up yet feels comfortable from head to toe!  Check out one of my favorite default look for a busy mom/working girl.

The top I got from a bazaar and I love outfit that looks really simple in front yet gives a lasting impression at the back (hopefully not pneumonia! hahaha)

Paired this top with a simple light blue jeans from Uniqlo.  I love Uniqlo I swear and this is my favorite jeans to date I've been wearing this on a weekly basis!  

Looking for Moisture-Rich Lipstick?

So you have dry lips like I do?
Are you still looking for lipsticks that works like magic?   The ones that do not require you to apply a separate lip balm whenever you reapply your lip color?

Well, my answer is here!  I've talked about this lipstick more than a year ago and the shade I featured awas 01 Smart Red.

If you're not the type who would go for reds, well, I've got a pink one for you, a pink that I can actually wear!

Kanebo Moisture Rouge Hydration in 09 Sweet Pink

Php2,100.00

Available at Kanebo counters 

Krispy Kreme Red Velvet Cheesecake and Matcha Doughnuts

Every after study time or activity time, Kyle would exclaim: "Reward please, snack please!".
I guess he got that in me, food as language of Love.  So in my household, I can feed a family of 3!  I have stocks of various snacks because - we may never know when the call arises!

I LOVE Krispy Kreme doughnuts, the Original Glazed is still the perfect doughnut for me no matter how many brands have been popping up everywhere!  So when I got these colorful Red and Green doughnuts for the year 2019, I let me calorie-counting slide and tasted them all!  With Kyle of course and Mr. AMW!

Red Velvet Cheesecake Doughnut

Matcha Doughnuts in Classic, Pistachio and Macadamia

I don't have a sweet tooth so I find the Red Velvet Cheesecake to be too sweet for my liking, but Kyle loved it a lot.  As for me, I may not be a fan of anything Matcha but this one surprised me the most!  With the right combination of sweet and bitter taste, I am actually craving for one right now as of typing!  I can't pick a favorite as I love all 3 variants!

Do You Love Flowers?

The practical girl in me would always say - "Give me food instead of flowers."
But as to most girls who exclaim that, it is difficult to admit that receiving flowers would give you that natural "high".

Look at that huge smile on my face when I received a bouquet of flowers for my birthday!  (Thanks Cathy Doll Philippines family!)

Then I realized gifting flowers is not about wasting money or not being practical.  Giving and receiving flowers is (in my opinion) symbolizes strong affection - could be love, friendship, appreciation or concern!  It embodies the feelings of the sender and the receiver can sense that.

Over the course of last year, I have sent so many flowers using online platforms, most of the time, it was a fail as I tend to do so in last minute thus the experience wasn't as good as expected.

This year, I want to be more organized and I'm jump-starting Valentines' Day preparation as early as today.

Found an online flower delivery service in the Philippines and Southeast Asia --- Flower Chimp Philippines .

Flower Chimp Philippines does same day delivery to anywhere in the Philippines FOR FREE (yay!).

Daily Casual Wear

If possible, I want to own a lot of rompers and jumpsuits in my wardrobe because it is the easiest to pick in the morning with the least decision-making skills!  I mean, seriously, no need to mix and match or even think about color-matching!

One of my favorite romper is this pair from Uniqlo, I've worn this several times changing accessories and shoes.  I love to pair this with my gray flats but recently, I bought a new pair of shoes from ShopTaryn (Marikina-made shoes) and I've been loving this combo so far!

P.S. Was so lucky as the pair was on sale!  From Php899.00 to Php540.00!  The quality is really good and no pain at all!

This black number has 1-inch heel which is perfect for busy moms on-the-go!  I love the pointy tip making it look casual yet chic at the same time!

Innisfree Smart Drawing Color Correcting Review

When Innisfree opened it's first store in Manila, I did not go crazy shopping as I knew the store stays for good!  But, I have a list on top of my head on what to get and one of them is "concealer".

I went ahead to ask the SA to take me to the concealer area and she took me to an area that confuses me a bit, I was given the option to choose from wide array of colors from the Smart Drawing Color Correcting Line.

In this line, there are a total of 18 shades - not all are for concealing and correcting but it also includes strobing, contouring, foundation and blusher.

Okay, I'm sure you'll get overwhelmed as well so don't be afraid to ask questions and talk to the friendly SAs, they are well-trained and they obviously knew what they are talking about.

Now back to my purchase, I picked 01 Apricot Peach because I always conceal my undereye dark circles, peach is a great color correcting shade to lighten up that area.

Half face test - applied alone!

Innisfree Smart Drawing Color Correcting 

Shade on Review: 01 Apricot Peach

Php700+ (Sorry forgot the exact price)

Available at Innisfree store, SM Mall of Asia

An easy way for you to achieve an even skin tone is with innisfree Smart Drawing Color Correcting. With a couple of swipes, you can say goodbye to skin prone to dullness, redness, or a yellowish hue. * Apricot Peach: Correct blue tones like dark circles under your eye. * Vanilla Green: Tone down redness like natural flush or blemish on the cheek areas. * Cream Purple: Correct yellow hues and creates a natural, more lively skin tone. * Lemon Yellow: Lighten mild redness or visible veins and brighten up dull looking skin tones. 

Nail Art Tutorial: Sparkly Space Gray Nails

Before 2018 ended, Girlstuff revealed their Holiday Collection called Au Naturel (Back to Basics). 
It wasn't the Holiday collection I was expecting but it was definitely one of those pleasant surprises because this turned out to be one of my TOP favorites!  (I mean I love all the collection they released but this one is one of those rare moments I was just staring at all the polish shades wondering which one to use first and mind you, I usually make quick decisions!)

So after making sure my fingers are healed (from allergies), I finally did a very simple nail art inspired by one of my favorite shade from the collection called Exposed. 

Exposed is one of those gray shades you always wanted to sport but can't seem to find the right ones that would work for your skin tone --- well, this is it!  This is a perfect shade for ANY skin tone! 

AMW Version: Sparkly Space Gray Nails

I inserted a sparkly element to celebrate the start of 2019!  Think about fireworks!

Step 1:

Apply a base coat to protect your nails, I used Girlstuff Nail Revive prior to taking photos, let it dry and go ahead and apply your choice of base color.

I picked Expose shade and applied 2 coats.  Wait for it to completely dry which will take approximately 10 minutes max!

The Body Shop Lash Sport Waterproof Mascara Review

I gave up overall on mascaras, I gave up on lashes, except latter part of 2018 when I was starting to use Castor Oil for my lashes - I was hoping there is a "silver lining"- as what our Ms. Universe Catriona Gray would say.

Today, I am reviewing The Body Shop's Lash Sport Waterproof Mascara, if you live in the Philippines, it's waterproof or NOTHING.

The Body Shop Lash Sport Waterproof Mascara Says ---

Finally, waterproof mascara that really does see you through the day. Lash Sport is high-performing mascara that volumises, lengthens and lasts. Formulated with Community Trade marula oil, it’s splashproof and sweatproof while also being easy to remove with a waterproof make-up remover. Expect no flaking, no smudging and no fading and benefit from defined lashes that last all day long.

My Lips But Better?

And no, I'm not talking about a lip color but because of BeachBorn All Natural lip products!

I got a gift from fellow Blogger Friend Sarah (thanks Sarah!) and these 2 made me super excited because you all know my "lip-tuation".

BeachBorn Bam Balm (Php168.00)

BeachBorn Aloeha! (Php150.00)

available at: https://beachborn.ph

One of the Best Family Restaurant - Relish

If there's one restaurant that's always full but I still don't mind going to, there is one and it's RELISH, HELLO HAPPINESS!

Seldom can you find me in crowded restaurants because I dislike noise and I dislike waiting in line to the core (hahaha).  

But this restaurant, Relish, located to Tomas Morato, for some reason, gives me a sense of comfort and happiness!  True to what they say, it is Hello Happiness when you get into the restaurants.

There are some probably reasons why ---

• The place is always packed with groups of friends and family (mostly family which I love!)
• People aren't as noisy and rowdy, so the buzz is just right!
• FOOD!  Food is great and that's all that matters.
• Ambiance deserves thumbs up!   Though crowded, tables are well distributed so you don't get bumped into other people when you go to the washroom.

I celebrated my birthday with my highschool friends here last year and I've been back so many times I lost count!  But they never fail!  If you haven't dined in this restaurant, what are you waiting for?

My Top 3 favorites, well I missed Beef Salpicao here so instead, I changed it to Grilled Pork Belly.

Happy New You AMW Friends!

Happy New You!

Well, it's what we're all wishing for every New Year!  But after all the wishing, do you seriously do something to celebrate the new you?

It isn't difficult nowadays with my favorite Beauty Store in the world --- Watsons.  Yes, I visit every single Watsons in countries that has it. (Hello China!  Hello Hong Kong, Hello Macau, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore!) 

So when I got an invite to a Happy New You event at SM Megamall, I brought Kyle with me straight from school because I knew I had to celebrate with the retail chain that I frequent and feel good at! 

Photo by: Pau Guevarra

 During the event, I also learned What's Hot and new inside the store and aside from that, I also learned several tips from experts.

Bell HYPOAllergenic Anti-Redness Primer Review

One of the easiest "correcting" face primer to use as of writing.

Yes, it was a pleasant surprise when I did unboxing on a couple of Bell HYPOAllergenic makeup products and I chanced upon this primer.  I saw a green primer for the face and at the back of my head I was thinking: "There goes patchy primer that would stick on my dry areas leaving me spotted white cast!"  

Then with a couple of pump, I applied it straight on my face during one of my #AMWIGStories unboxing session and it was in the middle of the day when my face was parch and dry.  Then I gave a loud "Oooohhh, this is nice!"

Then months after trying this, I still feel the same!

Bell HYPOAllergenic Anti-Redness Primer Review

Php999.00

Available at Watsons and SM Beauty

Product descxription ---

Neutralizes redness and conceals skin imperfections; making the blood vessels and discolouration is almost invisible. Moisturizes and smoothes the skin and visually extends the life of makeup. Light formula offers an easy and even application.

Housed in a glass with pump packaging, I wouldn't ask for anything else in terms of packaging.  You see how much product is left (which is always a thumbs up for me) and a pump is nice to control the right amount of product to be dispensed.

AMW Wears: Weekend Casuals

No yaya for 2 weeks and I have an important get-together with Beauty Blogging friends (friends for more than 10 years now!)  and a weekly visit to mom and dad.

How can I survive this day?

I always start by picking the right outfit - right means flattering to look at yet comfortable enough to walk and run around.

I came up with an outfit that I own for years, the black blouse you see is actually a Pre-mommy outfit, it is a large-sized loose blouse from Forever 21 - yes, I love key pieces that can be transformed.

The inner white spaghetti-strapped top and shorts are both from SM Woman.  Got them on sale so it was really sulit!  I love the fabric of both the top and bottom because they can transform from casual to smart casual (with the right accessories and shoes!)

Since I'm on -the-go, I picked flats (from Shop Taryn) instead of heels, if I am attending a more formal setting I would pick a kitten-heeled black shoes or a nude pumps!  Actually the choices are endless!  That's how I pick my clothing nowadays, making sure I have room to mix and match them at least 3-4 styles!

How do you like my final look?

Would you wear such outfit on a busy day?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

 

Pink Cheeks and Lips without Looking Pale? Here's my How-tos!

If you know me well, you'll know that my least favorite blush color is Pink because I always say it looks unnatural on me especially for girls like me who has weird complexion - fair to look at but really warm on the inside (physically and emotionally *Laughs*)

Seriously, I never pick a pink blush nowadays because I always go for Peach, Orange and my favorite Bronzer-type of blush.  They warms up my face like no other making me look fresh-looking.

But for a Beauty Blogger like myself who welcomes change, I pretty much can play around and work my hands on the products that seems to be an "X" to me.  Yes an X can be a CHECK (except on EX).  Okay seriously, I have to stop this!  I'm high on coffee and you can sense that I'm sure.

So here's my take on Pink Cheeks and Lips without making me look sick (and mind you, I didn't have to adjust on eye makeup, I an actually wear this combo ALONE!)

Blush on focus: Maybelline Fit Me! Blush in ROSE

Cathy Doll Ready2White Milky Tone Up Eye Serum Review

You all know I love taking are of my eyes, I've seen the benefit of using eye creams and/or serums constantly through the years!  I still have an old photo of my close up eyes year 2007 against today.  Yes, there's a HUGE difference and I love my eyes today - yes, even if I'm a decade and more older.

I recently got a Christmas gift from my Cathy Doll fam and one product I'm too excited to try is their Ready2White Milky Tone Up Eye Serum - I used it right away and I've been using it for 2 weeks now.  

Here are my initial thoughts and I'll share more updates soon!

Cathy Doll Ready2White Milky Tone Up Eye Serum

size: 15ml

Available at Watsons 

Help enhances liveliness to the eye area With a roller that is so easy to use. Contains milk, jojoba oil and Vitamin B3 to help eliminate dark circles and moisturised eye areas. Also prevent wrinkles and replenish youthful eye glance.

The Body Shop Shine Lip Liquid Review

I was a bit late to review this on the Blog but if you follow me on Instagram and watched my stories, you've probably seen me unbox these TBS Shine Lip Liquid and shared my initial thoughts!  (Shameless plug coming up)  If you want fresh and on time review/thoughts of products please follow me on Instagram and watch my stories!  The blogpost will always come in late as I take at least a week to share my full review on a particular product.

Now, back to regular programming.  Today, after testing all the 4 shades of The Body Shop Shine Lip Liquid, I can now safely say, these aren't just meant for the Holidays - though it'll be perfect to wear them in Christmas parties but hey, Chinese New Year is coming up anyways!

Housed in a lipgloss/liquid lipsticks tube, you can easily see the shades.

Shades on spot: 

Lemon Sherbet, Blueberry Chew, Russet Copper and Black Liquorice

Php495.00 each

Sweeten up your look with our illuminating, nourishing liquid shine lipsticks, now available in 3 new shimmering shades. Enriched with jojoba oil and Community Trade marula oil and argan oil.

• Lasting high-shine moisture

• Liquid lip colour

• Weightless shine

• Non-sticky

The Best Chinese Restaurant For Me (To Date)

Will be Century Seafood located at Century Hotel.
I used to eat there at least once or twice a month with my father's association group.  There's always Birthdays,  Wedding or even Anniversary Celebration and this is actually one of the most booked Chinese Restaurant for events during my time (naks my time talaga).  

Now that I'm older and wedding celebrations are lesser (hello, most of my friends are married na and have teenagers)  so I'm probably waiting for their kids to get married and dine here again?  #JustJoking

My sister-in-law, before leaving for Europe for the Holidays decided to host a simple family dinner to celebrate Christmas and New Years in advance!  She picked the best restaurant to pig out --- Century Seafood!

After all the years of dining in different Chinese restaurants, this hits the heart - well tummy first!  It brings so much good old memories with authentic Chinese dish using fresh and high quality ingredients!  

Cold Cuts Platter