Max Factor Miracle Glow Duo Pro Illuminator Review

How much glow do you want your skin to have?
Just right...am I right?

That is the most requested look that I've been getting for the year 2018 - Fresh, Healthy and GLOWING skin! 

How to achieve such look for someone living in such a humid weather like the Philippines? 

Let's talk about the difference between a "highlighter" and an "Illuminator".

Highlight is for "concentrated area", while illuminator are create to enhance or create a feeling of light from "within".

Let's say, you can "highlight" your nose bridge, cheekbones and chin and you can actually "illuminate" the rest of you face for that "fresh" look.

You see the difference now?  I guess this is the time you can actually say: "Ahh, I need an illuminator in my life!"

And here's a perfect product to share because this is a legit ILLUMINATOR from Max Factor.

Max Factor Miracle Glow Duo Pro Illuninator

Php895.00

Available in shades: Light, Medium and Deep

Miracle Glow Duo is a duo of creamy highlighters: one matte highlighter to perfect skin and one shimmery highlighter to boost radiance and glow. Use them alone or in combination. Shades have been designed by Max Factor make-up artists to virtually suit every skin tone. Creamy soft texture allows for a quick and easy highlighting look as formula is easily blendable and buildable. Highlighting adds more light and is used to emphasise the angular areas on your face that naturally catch light.

Max FactorX Colour Elixir Cushion Review

How fresh can you get when you head out in a rush without much makeup on?
My everyday schedule:
Send my son to school.
Walk/Brisk walk for exercise.
Eat Breakfast as I open up my laptop for work.
Head back to school to pick up my son.
Some days, I even had to drive him to his grandparents and head for meetings or events.

ZERO FRESHNESS!  Especially my drying lips!  I always hear my infamous #YayaTab says: "Ma'am, ang dry na po ng lips niyo, mag retouch na po kayo."
(Trust me, that never offended me, we are in that relationship na we can push each other and pull each other's hair! lol)

We all know how we love our Liquid Matte Lipsticks.  They have been around for more than 2 years now so they must be doing a great job keeping us lipstick lovers happy!  But for someone sitting at a corner with dehydrated lips, there were times I chose to just apply a thick lip balm and just head out looking like a sick mom!

Thankfully, something from the early 2000s is back!  A lip product that keeps the lips hydrated while looking fresh all day!

MAX FACTOR COLOUR ELIXIR LIP CUSHION

Php445.00

Designed for all occasions; Max Factor's Lip Cushion offers skin-loving antioxidants; beautiful colour and an innovative applicator; so you can treat the lips to the hydrating colour treatment they deserve every day.

• 2-in-1: Nourished lips with colour
• Treat your lips to the hydrating colour treatment they deserve every day.
• Highly nourishing; skin-loving ingredients
• The soft-touch precision applicator is designed with a sloped angle that glides across the lips with ease
• Achieve nourished; smooth; soft lips with the bonus of colour in an instant.

Max Factor Facefinity Compact Foundation Review

I kinda lose count how many powder foundations I've tried for the past 10 years (since I started Blogging).  

But, I never stop reviewing new ones because I really use them a LOT and I am the type who wanted to try different brands as much as I can --- reason why turning into a Beauty Blogger was easy for me!

Recently, I was able to try Max FactorX Facefinity Compact Foundation.  The last one I tried is the Max Factor Creme Puff Powder which I like but I find using Powder Foundation is my thing for the fact that it gives more coverage.

Here's my take on Facefinity!

Firstly, the packaging is quite huge, slim but huge!  A rectangular shaped compact with soft round edges.  I don't know about you but I don't mind big compacts like this as long as they aren't bulky.

Max Factor Facefinity Compact Foundation Says ---

Protect and moisturise your skin with the convenience of a compact and the smooth coverage of satin finish.

Max FactorX Velvet Matte Lipstick Review (25 Blush)

It's Monday once again and my extremely crazy week was over...but hey!  Today is the start of Kyle's Pre-K schoolyear so that does not give me the chance to sit back and relax.  All I can do is to create that Excited Feel of having another busy week ahead via black bullet called LIPSTICK.

One of the leading makeup brand that I'm accustomed with --- Max Factor introduced their new lipstick collection called Max Factor Velvet Mattes.  This comes in a range of 7 matte shades with soft and smooth formula which is said to leave the lips hydrated all throughout usage.

That is definitely what I'm aiming for!

The 7 shades available are called Nude, Sunkiss, Flame, Rose, Desire, Love and Blush (which I'm featuring today!)

I did a bit of research on the other shades and I'm glad to announce that this range may contain only 7 shades but it is a wide range of rose hued nudes, orange toned corals and deep raspberry reds.

According to Max Factor ---

"The Velvet Mattes Lipstick Collection has been specifically formulated to give a densely mattefied finish, but with a creamy, moisturizing formula inside.
Traditionally, matte lipsticks have an increased quantity of large particle powders in the formula that create an uneven surface which diffuses light reflection. Vitally, these powders are added at the expense of moisturizing oils.
With the Velvet Mattes Lipstick Collection, the formula has been designed different to traditional matte lipsticks, with no increase in powders or solids. It uses the same moisturizing formula used in Max Factor’s popular Colour Elixir range, however includes reflective particles, which are finely milled natural mica, with an irregular structure that results in the diffused reflection needed for a matte effect."

What I Found at #SMWorldOfBeauty

I remembered preparing for my Engagement Day (which is almost like preparing for a Wedding day).  I've decided to cut down cost by doing my own makeup and with that in mind, I've decided to go to a Beauty Store to purchase my own set of makeup.  That was year 2007 (same year I started my Blog).  

There wasn't much brand choices back then.

Fast forward to a decade, I am so happy how SM Beauty changed the way we beauty enthusiasts shop!  I can finally say, I have STOPPED online shopping for more than a year now because there are so many holy grail products I can literally see, touch and try at SM Beauty!

Do you like Asian makeup?
Brands like K-Palette, 4U2, Shiseido, Tony Moly, Etude House, Kate Tokyo, Holika Holika, Canmake Tokyo made its' way to our shores!  Here are just some of my picks.

Max FactorX Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation Review

So I seldom use foundation but when it comes to going out for the whole day to attend several meetings facing clients and colleagues, I make sure to look as fresh as ever with a foundation that has medium to heavy coverage BUT must feel weightless!

I was able to try Max Factor's Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation last February and have been using this on and off for several occasions.  

Thankfully, for a "solid foundation", this transitioned into liquid formula that easily melts into my skin!  Just perfect for the hot season.

Max Factor Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation 

Shade: Sand 060

Max FactorX Miracle Touch Skin Smoothing Foundation says ---

• The product includes an invisible wax suspension system, which allows the silky liquid formulation to remain hidden under the solid foundation exterior.
• Upon skin contact with the foundation, the invisible wax suspension melts, allowing a light liquid to easily glide across the skin.
• Following application, the clever formula regains its original shape, allowing the fluid to evaporate and the wax to reshape and hold the ultrafine colour and coverage particles in a fine, lightweight layer.

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

You are So Difficult To Use But...

...the end result is precise!

I'm talking about the newest Liquid Liner from Max Factor X called the Masterpiece High Precision Liquid Liner.  This liner isn't the usual liner you've imagined!  This is unique because of...

The paddle-shaped tip that is rounded (not pointy).

L-R Front and side view of the unique paddle-tip.  This product is said to give the intensity of a liquid liner with the precision of a pencil.  Note:  The tip isn't soft though, it literally felt like plastic paddle so I'm sharing my complete thoughts and how much I dislike/like using this!



According to Max Factor X ---

The intense black, velvet formula glides on smoothly and dries quickly for chic sophistication or bold drama. The paddle-shaped tip gives you two glamorous looks in one: thick and dramatic, or fine and elegant, so you can dial up the drama to suit your look.

• Switch from thick line to thin line in a flash
• Intensity of a liquid eyeliner with the precision of a pencil
• Two looks from one versatile and easy to use paddle tip

Max FactorX Crème Puff Blush in Alluring Rose Review

After almost 10 years of blogging about Beauty, seeing, touching, looking at makeup still excites me!  And the Max Factor Crème Puff Blush is no exception!  

For someone who has sallow (aka "boring" skin), adding a color on my cheek gives me the "life" I deserve!  It's like instant caffeine-fix for my face!  Adding the right flush of color will make me look younger (at times) and more cheerful!

The Max Factor Crème Puff Blush is a lightweight, baked formula blush that contains finely milled, multi-tonal pigments that blend evenly.

And I got myself shade Alluring Rose.

According to Max FactorX ---

Baked formula –features a soft, velvet smooth feel and allows for a lightweight end look.
Finely milled, multi-tonal pigments - complement and enhance skin tones, while ultra-fine particles blend effortlessly for controllable contouring and buildable natural colour.

There are a total of 6 shades to choose from:   Lovely Pink, Nude Mauve, Seductive Pink, Lavish Mauve, Alluring Rose and Gorgeous Berries.

What to Expect: Project Vanity's Wanderlust Kit

Do you still remember my first Project Vanity Girl Boss Glam KIT which I "unboxed" for you guys?  Guess what?  I got the 2nd most-sought-after Wanderlust KIT!  Thanks Liz for sending this to me!  

I am so happy Liz and her team went ahead for a second KIT because the first one is amazing and I can't wait to show you how wonderful the Wanderlust KIT is!

Project Vanity Wanderlust Kit

(Php1,450.00)

This Kit is curated with the traveler in mind!  And trust me, this is indeed a perfect, all-you-need kit when you travel!  Whether locally or internationally!

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm Petunia

A gorgeous tinted lip balm for those who have sensitive lips!  Made with 100% natural ingredients, I've been very dependent on these during my breastfeeding days and still do until today.

Quick and Easy Smokey Eye Makeup Using Max Factor

So I haven't done a photo-torial for quite some time!  I'm sorry guys!  So many things have been happening but hey, I'm back!  And today, I'm sharing a super nice eyeshadow palette I recently discovered and love using!  Why?  It makes smokey eye makeup application a breeze!  Here's my 5 minutes eye makeup look.

Products used on eyes:

Max Factor NEW Smokey Eye Drama Kit in Sumptuous Golds (on eyes and brows)

and Max Factor False Lash Effect Velvet Volume Mascara

Daytime Purple Lips!

From Max FactorX Lipfinity Long Lasting Lipstick in shade Eternally Luscious.

So how difficult it is to wear purple lipsticks during office hours without having your colleagues giving you that: "Are you going to skip work and party later look?"

I have a good number of purple lipsticks now but most of them are gearing towards nighttime look.  Thankfully, I found a nice color that would work on both day and night!  The shade Eternally Luscious may "sound" a bit too party-ish but the outcome is more of a medium lilac pink shade that works for most skin tones!

If you own MAC Heroine lipstick, the shade is almost similar but 2-3 shades lighter!  The Max Factor version is not too matte, I would say, this lipcolor falls into the demi-matte category giving added moisture and sheen on lips upon application.

 The packaging is very simple!  It comes with a gold packaging that says: "I'm so chic and you love it!"  The only concern I have with regards to the packaging is that the lipstick does not twist all the way down.  If your lipstick is still new, you may end up accidentally touching the lipstick on to the cap, which is a huge no-no if you are an OC gal like me!  It won't be an issue if you used up a quarter of your lipstick!

Max FactorX Miracle Match Foundation Review

So after a rave review from Max FactorX Skin Luminizer Foundation because of the "brightening" effect it gives which works so well on my skin type, I welcome, with open arms --- Max Factor's newest Miracle Match Foundation.  This foundation has shade matching formula with medium coverage.  As they say, "seamless" makeup is in so I gave this foundation a test and see if it passes my requirements for next-generation makeup.

• coverage
• natural finish
• blurred effect on skin issues.
• hydration

Max FactorX Miracle Match Foundation Says ---

Transform your look with flawless, nourished skin in the perfect shade for you.

• Enhances the look of your skin for a healthy looking finish
• Blurs imperfections
• The hydrating formula creates a natural, dewy complexion
• Lightweight for seamless blending

Available in 8 shades:

Pinky Pink Sweet/Vampy Look for the Love Month

It's been a while since I created a makeup photo-torial and truth be told, I missed it!  Thanks to my friends from Benefit Cosmetics Philippines for requesting me to do a Pinky-Pink look perfect for the month of February!  And here's my version... and obviously, my version comes with a crazy face! :P

I have used all the products from the Benefit Fortune, Fame and Fab kit (Php3,300.00) and more!

Max Factor X Masterpiece Glamour Extensions 3-in-1 Volumising Mascara Review

You guys know by know how much I am into Maybelline mascaras!  They are inexpensive yet they work like a charm! I have tried so many different brands of mascaras and I always go back to the ones I tried!  Little do I know that the new Max Factor X Masterpiece Glamour Extensions mascara which I originally thought as a "Hohum" product (due to the not-so-impactful Excess Volume Extreme Impact Mascara review) turns out to be a VAVAVOOM mascara!

The tube is almost similar to the Max Factor X Excess Volume Extreme impact Mascara.  Same color, same thickness!  The only difference is, this mascara do not have the Step 1 and 2.  The one single tube with 1 single wand is supposed to do all the Volumising and Darkening!

AMW Wears: Max FactorX Lipfinity Colour + Gloss in More & More Macchiato

A long-lasting lip color that can last for hours?
You had me at long-lasting there!

Max Factor Lipfinity Colour + Gloss 

I got the shade More & More Macchiato

In one swipe, I was hooked!  I wore this a lot of times because who has the time for retouch when you have so much on your hands?

AMW Reviews: Max FactorX Excess Volume Extreme Impact Mascara

One of the biggest mascara tube I've held in my life! 

That came from Max FactorX Excess Volume Extreme Impact Mascara.  The company probably wanted to convey a message to us consumers that you get EXTREME BULK and VOLUME on your lashes (same as packaging) when you use it.

This mascara comes with 2 steps.  And for the first time, they are both "working mascaras", not one end as a mascara base (usually white in color) like what we're used to.

Looking Romantic with 2 Max Factor Make Up

Happy Friday!
It is weekend once again, how time flies!  And I'm sure, some of you are probably off to meet up with friends, have a nice date with the family or your special someone!  On days I don't need to wear a lot of makeup (no event days), my make up routine is very simple!  A touch of blush and lipstick, well, for sure, I'll be adding brow products and a liner --- I'm ready to face the world!

For today's inspiration, I picked 2 new Max Factor products --- the Max Factor Creme Puff Blush and Colour Intensifying Balm. 

Let's start with the Creme Puff Blush.  They come in 6 colors with baked formulation.  The product is said to feature a soft, velvet-smooth feel and allows lightweightlook. 

AMW Reviews: Max FactorX Skin Luminizer Foundation

I have used Max Factor X Skin Luminizer Foundation several times even on a make up photo-torial recently (How to apply make up on dark, pigmented lids).  I tend to grab this particular liquid foundation when I needed the full coverage minus the fake, heavy feel! 

But seriously?  Who likes to apply liquid foundation on a very hot and humid summer like this?  Well, ME if I have some coverage!  I also tend to use this as my "lightweight" concealer!  

Shade on spotlight: SAND

Max FactorX Skin Luminizer Foundation says ---

Want coverage that enhances your skin rather than masking it? Try skin luminizer foundation, which cleverly uses light-reflecting particles to create a gorgeous healthy-looking glow.

• Subtle skin luminizers are specially designed to reflect ‘warm’ light tones.
• Also contains a hydrator that helps improve skin’s condition to create a healthy glow from within.
• Medium coverage with a dewy finish.
• Handy pump dispenser

Shades: 6 shades available locally

How To Apply Make Up on Dark/Pigmented Lids

Hi AMW Friends!
Today, I will answer one simple yet seldom-asked query from an AMW reader.  

"How to deal with Dark/Pigmented eyelids?  No matter what eyeshadow I apply, it won't appear nicely."

Well, the answer is pretty simple, you can use whatever products you have at home, no need to go out and spend money!  Let me share to you the tip and trick I've been doing for years.  Not only to myself but for my clients!  

And here's the result...

Natural right?  Do you want to learn how?
Smile and click