Showing posts with label charm. Show all posts
Showing posts with label charm. Show all posts

Friday, November 16, 2012

AMW Reviews: Charm Travel Pro Limited Edition --- Sonia

Sophie has been a blogger friend of mine for years.  When she told me about the new travel pro brush set she's coming up with, I've never been more excited for her, the brand and her mom!

“Sonia is my mom’s name and I am dedicating this first ever limited edition set to her.” --- as proudly mentioned by Sophie of Beauty & Minerals.  I can still remember those days when she felt listless as she can't seem to find the perfect fabric for the limited edition pouch.  Until one day, Sophie recalls how her mom was able to find the perfect animal print fabric!  "There were a lot of challenges as it is in any business but my mom never failed to provide support every step of the way, I am just so lucky to have that,” she adds. 

 
With that history in mind, I couldn't imagine naming this gorgeous limited edition brush set otherwise!

Charm says ---
In celebration of Charm’s fifth year, Sonia’s brushes’ come in golden ferrules which triumphs the five successful years that the brand has been in the market. “Charm Brushes are more than just tools -- to me and my clients, it’s an accessory that we just don’t leave home without. Kind of like its name, charm,” Sophie says with a smile.

Charm Travel Pro, for the first time, is available in a limited edition design, in luxurious gold ferrules, sleek black handles, housed in animal print for that timeless, elegant take in fashion. Luxury. Elegance. Fashion statement. What more can you ask for ?

Length: Longest brush is approx. 5.75 inches.


AMW says ---
Pros
  • Each set will be housed in a gorgeous box perfect for gift-giving.
  • Each brush wrapped in a clear plastic for protection against scratch.
  • Combination of natural and synthetic bristles perfect for specific makeup applications.
  • The set includes everything you need for a light to heavy makeup application!
  • No bleeding nor shedding.
  • Gorgeous matte black handle and matte gold ferrule.  So far, the handle and ferrule of all the Charm brushes I own are still intact.  No chipping.
  • As compared to the previous Travel Pro v.2 , this set is a tad better.  This set is similiar to v.3 (Please click v.2 and v.3 link for past reviews.)
  • Price.  Affordable for quality.
Cons
  • Limited edition!
  • Can't seem to find one!  Maybe, the idea of wanting more Travel Pro brush sets even if you already own one?
Overall
A brush set perfect for travel at the same time, you get all the brushes you need for a full faced makeup application.  Combination of natural and synthetic hair.  

Tips
  • Wash upon purchase.
  • Best to invest on a brush cleaner and clean it on EVERY use.  Deep cleansing is done at least once a week!
  • Personalize your brushes by putting a sticker or painting it with a nail polish at the tip of your handle.
  • Make sure ALL brushes are COMPLETELY dry before you start using them again.
  • Always dry the brushes flat on top of a dry towel.
  •  When in doubt, check out the brushes in stores or bazaars rather than just via online.
Will I repurchase?
Based on all my Charm brushes experiences, I do not need to repurchase any of the brushes as they're all working properly and still in good condition until this very moment.  Will highly recommend!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Makeup enthusiasts (who also loves animal print) who wants a COMPLETE brush set of their own that works!  Makeup professionals can even use this on clients!  

Where to purchase and how much?
Priced at Php2,750.00 (approx $65.50) available online or visit PurBeauty, Serendra and The Ramp, Crossings at Shangri-La Plaza Branch Ground Floor.

Photos

Fresh out of the box.
Each brushes were individually wrapped with a clear plastic.  All the brushes on the left hand side (facing you) have extra plastic sleeves to prevent fly-away.

Each brush has its own space inside the pouch, brushes fit snugly inside the case and you won't have them messed up during travel.  Eye brushes have smaller handles which fits the right hand side of the pouch (facing you) perfectly.  Face brushes have bigger handles which fits the left hand side of the pouch.


 14 pcs. Charm Travel Pro Limited Edition Brush Set Sonia
In terms of color and the texture of the handle, it is very similar to the Charm Travel Pro v. 3, similar matte black handle, instead of the matte pink handle on v.3, this one is in classy gold.  The combination is perfect and unique! 


 Same brushes as v. 3

 Let me break down to you each of the brushes and their usage
(Click THIS LINK to see brush hairs up close)

 (Functions are not limited to what I've written here.  Feel free to experiment and use them as you please.)
  1. Lip Brush - for lipstick application or spot concealing.
  2. Brow Spoolie - perfect for eyebrow grooming, brow gel application and separate mascara that clumps on your lashes.
  3. Eyebrow shading brush - the stiffness is great for brow powder application.  It grabs eyebrow powders so well I can't live without this!
  4. Bent Eyeliner Brush - perfect for gel liner application, Avant Garde makeup (for those special drawing tricks you need to do on your face) or spot concealing.
  5. Flat Liner brush - eyeliner application using powders on both upper and lower lash lines.
  6. Pencil Point Brush - eyeshadow application on outer-v for monlids or people with small eyes.  This brush is also my to-go-to brush in applying eyeshadow on the lower lashline for a smoky eye makeup look.
  7. Blending Brush - works just like MAC224, a blending brush for people with medium to large lid space.  This brush is also a favorite of mine to apply concealer and powders on the eye area.
  8. Angled Eyeshadow Brush - blending of eyeshadow and eyeshadow application.
  9. Wet/Dry Eyeshadow Brush - can be used to apply eyeshadow.  Foiling of mineral eyeshadow will also look good with this brush.
  10. Concealer Brush - for spot concealing and also a nice brush to apply/spread eyeshadow base.
  11. Foundation Brush - moisturizer, primer and liquid/cream foundation application is a breeze with this brush.
  12. Angled Blush Brush - for face contouring and blush application.
  13. Powder Brush - powder foundation/setting powder application.  This brush can also be used to apply body glitters.
  14. Stippling Brush - perfect for an "airbrushed" makeup look.  Stippling liquid/cream foundation with this brush may take longer time but the effect is a dream!
 Once brushes are completely dry, you can store them back and protect the brush hairs with a clear plastic cover that goes with the pouch.


Do you own any travel pro brush sets?
If not, do you have at least ONE Charm Brush item?  Which one and do you like it?

My first ever brush from Beauty & Minerals was a Kabuki Brush.  It was my first good brush that I purchased locally and as years passed, I'm proud to say, Charm listens to feedback and suggestions and I am so proud of my dear friend as her brand grows bigger and better!  This Limited Edition brush set called Sonia is such a wonderful way to celebrate Charm's 5th year anniversary and this brush set is close to my heart as both Sophie and I are close to our moms!

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Stay happy!





(Product gifted to me because I'm a wonderful friend *lol*  Opinions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

Monday, November 12, 2012

AMW Reviews: L.A. Colors Mineral Pressed Powder

Happy start of the week AMW friends! 
Today, I will be reviewing my first L.A. Colors makeup product.  I've always been a fan of L.A. colors when it comes to nail polish and long time reader would know how much I hoarded on the L.A. Colors Art Deco polishes for my nail art designs!  

I've read good reviews on the brand's eye shadows, lipsticks, etc...  Now, I'm glad to get the chance to try their Mineral Pressed Powder!  This was gifted to me by my friends from Sprint Asia early this year but I only get to try this recently as the shade I got was way too dark for me!  I'm lucky that I have enough light colored liquid foundation and BB cream so I can use this on top to match up the color of my neck!  And oh, I've found the best function for this!  This product works as my daily contouring powder as its not too dark and unnatural but it gives my skin a healthy amount of color instead! 

L.A. Colors Mineral Pressed Powder 
in Classic Tan
L.A. Colors says ---

Mineral pressed powder is a whisper light powder that allows the skin to breathe.  Use it to bring life to bare skin or to extend the life of foundation.  Mineral Pressed Powder is talc-free and fragrance free for a natural coverage with velvety smooth finish.  Includes compact case with mirror and applicator!


Available shades: Lightest Ivory, Fair, Creamy Natural, Soft Honey, Natural Beige, True Beige, Classic Tan, Warm Caramel, Sand, Toasted Almond, Nutmeg, Toffee, Creamy Cocoa, Mocha and Ebony. (Shades taken from L.A. Colors website)

Ingredients:








AMW says ---
Pros
  • Packaging comes with a good quality mirror and sponge.
  • No fragrance.
  • Light weight mineral powder that feels light on skin.
  • Powder is finely milled and smooth to touch.
  • Can control a certain amount of oil on your skin.  (Very oily skin may need some retouch within the day.)
  • Doesn't cake up no matter how much you apply.
  • Looks natural in person and on photos.
  • Good range of shades available.
  • Animal cruelty-free.
  • Price.
Cons
  • Clear plastic packaging is a great idea but it's a bit flimsy.
  • Coverage is light to medium.  Will not cover blemishes or marks.
Overall
Light weight, has moderate oil control properties.  Very natural effect and inexpensive.

Tips
  • Purchasing online could be challenging, be ready to pick a wrong shade and deal with it.  One way to go is to research on beauty bloggers with your same skin tone who uses this product.  
  • For medium coverage, use the sponge that comes with the product.
  • As a setting powder on top of your favorite liquid/cream foundation or BB creams, use a fluffy powder brush or kabuki brush for a more natural coverage.
  • Retouch is best done with a fluffy brush and apply lightly only on areas needed to prevent product from caking up.
  • DO NOT drop the product as the plastic packaging gets cracked easily.
  • Conceal blemishes with your favorite concealer prior to using this product.
  • If you purchased a wrong shade, you can always fix it by using a lighter or darker foundation underneath.  Practice makes perfect!
  • For a more natural contour, pick 2-3 shades darker than your original skin tone and use it as a contouring powder.  I love using mine as a contouring powder as it doesn't have any sparkles or shimmers plus it's not too orange against my skin!
Will I repurchase?
Not for myself but will recommend to girls on a budget.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Girls on a budget looking for pressed mineral powders!  The product works best for normal to oily skin.

Where to purchase and how much?
Locally priced at Php249.00 (approx $5.90) available at Purebeauty Store at Serendra.  Sprint Asia is the local distributor of L.A. Colors makeup.

Photos

Shade: Classic Tan on pan

Mirror and Sponge that comes with the packaging

Closer look upon application
Since Classic Tan is 2 shades darker than my regular foundation shade, I used Bobbi Brown Brown Illuminating Base Cream underneath (which is a base cream yet it has a brightening and light effect) and applied L.A. Colors Mineral Pressed Powder with a fluffy kabuki brush.  

Full face application with a K-Brush

Used as a daily contouring powder
Using  Charm Angled Kabuki Buffer Brush  I picked up a bit more product and contoured areas that I want to contour.  (Ex. cheekbones, nose bridge, etc...)


 Effect after a bit of contouring using Classic Tan

Left: Classic tan applied all over face with K-Brush
Right: Classic tan applied all over face plus used as contouring powder. 
 (Look ma, my nose looks more defined!) :P
The effect is very natural even in person!  There wasn't any sharp edges made due to its finely milled powders!

Have you tried any L.A. Colors makeup?
Any other makeup recommendations from the brand?


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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!





(Product received as gift.  Opnions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

How to Trim and Groom Your Brows the Easiest Way





Today, I will be sharing "my way" on how to trim and groom the brows the easiest way!  Keep in mind that it takes practice, patience and a whole lot of effort!  I hope my mini tutorial will help you guys who are scared to fix their own brows!  

If I haven't stress enough, well, let me say this again.  Eyebrows can make or break your appearance and I learned that a bit too late!  I'm not asking you to start staring at your brows in front of the mirror right this very moment and start plucking like there's no tomorrow!  Since this tutorial is done for beginners, here are some tips you should at least consider before trimming and grooming your brows.

Have your brows shaped, cut and groomed by professionals!  Professionals consider your face shape before grooming your brows and the right arch and thickness are also considered to match your face.  You can go for an inexpensive Php50.00 (approx $1.00) eyebrow shaving from neighborhood salon.  If you're used to having your brows done, you may try Benefit Brow Bar or Browhaus for eyebrow waxing needs. Or if you have super high tolerance to pain, you may also give Eyebrow Threading a try!

I've done all three, and my favorite would be eyebrow waxing but due to time constraint, I always end up in our neighboring salon for a quick shave at a super affordable price! 

Now that you took your pick on how to have your brows professionally done, what's next?  Well, let's start taking care of the perfect shape to prolong the professional visit and trust me, it helps save your hard-earned money!  

Step 1:
Stand in front of the mirror and check the "original" shape done by the professional.  Always start with clean brows free from brow products.


Monday, October 1, 2012

How to: First Trimester Pregnancy Face





Happy October 1st AMW Friends!!!  It's a Monday and it's the start of another new month!  I am sending good vibes to everyone!!! 

To jump start the busy week, my "This is How I Do It" post may be dedicated to all expectant moms out there especially on their first trimester but this is also a makeup look that our younger readers can try!  I'm talking about you high school and college students who want to start on makeup yet don't want to look too made up! 

Because of the pregnancy hormones kicking in, my sense of smell has multiplied 100x and I do have the nauseous feeling and I throw up every now and then!  Going out and fixing oneself is one easy task I love to do in the past but things have changed and I'm finding myself tempted not to apply makeup at all and leave the house!

But I can't! I do need to go out for some special gatherings and most especially, those makeup gigs that was booked months ago!  I want to put an effort to look good as I don't want my clients to see my super tired, stressed, nauseous-look!  

This is How I Do It!!!

Brows
I find myself creating lighter looking brows as I tend to skip on eye shadow application so creating strong brows is not the thing as of the moment.  Since my hair is still lighter than my brows, I take time to redefine my brows and fill in spaces by using brow powders.  (Ex. Benefit Brow Zings)


Friday, September 21, 2012

AMW Reviews: Yves Rocher Bronzer and Shimmer Powder Duo

Do you still remember my "This is How I Do It: Contour the Face for Day Time" tutorial?

Okay, before the remembering, I forgot to say: "HAPPY FRIDAY!!!"  Boy am I so excited for the weekend!  

Back to the topic, the Bronzing Powder that I used for the past tutorial is from Yves Rocher! By this time, you probably know the brand more than I do!  Yves Rocher has been around for quite some time locally and they're not only known for their skincare products but also their cosmetics!


Yves Rocher Bronzer and Shimmer Powder Duo may not have other shades available but I didn't mind picking this up as I'm a fan of using bronzers and darker powders to contour my face on a daily basis! :)
Yves Rocher says ---


Bronzer and Shimmer Powder Duo for a made to measure sunkissed effect
A very natural matte bronzing powder complemented by the superb radiance of pearlised powder, both worked for perfect harmony with the skin. The bronzing powder procures a very natural instant tan. Applied with a brush, a touch of pearl revives and gives face a satiny radiance.
Bronzer and shimmer powder duo contains all the natural benefits of radiance-boosting rice bran extract..

Size: 0.24 oz & 0.12 oz compact

AMW says ---
Pros
  • Nice compact with huge mirror.
  • 2-in-1 product.  Worth the price.
  • The shimmer powder gives a natural shimmer, not-over-the-top look.  Sparkles aren't huge.
  • Bronzer can be used as contouring powder (to some skin color) or blush.
  • Both texture of the powders are smooth and easy to blend.
  • Effect (with the right application technique) comes off super natural.
  • Inexpensive.
Cons
  • The Bronzer (matte portion) may not work for all skin color as a contouring powder as it may look too orange for a fair skinned individual.
  • Only 1 shade available for the bronzer.
Overall
The Bronzer is a matte powder that can be used as blush or contouring powder while the shimmer powder duo can work as a blush on anyone!

Tips
  • If you are fair and you plan to use the bronzer as a contour powder, please be careful not to apply too much as the effect could be "muddy" or dirty.
  • Shimmer Powder is best applied on one area on your face.  Use it to highlight your cheekbones or as an eyeshadow.  Do not use the Shimmer Powder on various places, you may end up looking like a disco ball.  (Now sing with me: "Stayin' Alive! Stayin' Alive! Ah! Ah! Ah! Ah!)
  • Use the right brush in application, test on different brushes until you get to pick the most comfortable brush to use.
  • If you have medium dark to dark skin color, feel free to apply a bit more, you'll look gorgeous nevertheless!
Will I repurchase?
Yes

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who loves bronzing powders and love to contour the face on a daily basis.

Where to purchase and how much?
Locally for Php680.00 (approx $16.19) at Yves Rocher  TriNoma Mall, SM North Edsa The Block, SM South Mall, SM Fairview and Ayala Center Cebu.

Guess what?  I got mine on sale!!! Lucky me at Php499.00 (approx $11.60)


 Photos

Left: Bronzer (matte powder that has an orange base)
Right: Shimmer Powder 
(reminded me so much of a darker version of Stila Kitten eyeshadow)
 

To give a natural contour all over my face, I pick my Charm Angled Kabuki Buffer Brush
and lightly pick the Bronzer using the "most dense" portion of the brush.

 

Gently apply the powder with a buffing motion creating an "E" shape.
Blend! Blend! Blend!


The same powder can also be used to contour your nose IF the shade isn't too much for your skin tone.  I picked my Sigma Precision Angled P84 to contour the sides of my nose. 


Now, using the fluffier side of the Charm Angled Kabuki Buffer Brush (which has the longest hair), I pick some of the Shimmer Powder.


Apply it on the apples of my cheeks or on the highest point of my cheeks with a dabbing motion.

Voila!  My face is contoured at the same time, I have a beautiful warm blush that makes my skin healthy and glowing!

Overall effect of Yves Rocher Bronzer and Shimmer Powder Duo 
applied with the light hands!

Would you give Yves Rocher Bronzer and Shimmer Powder Duo a try?
How would you use it?


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Stay happy!



Friday, September 7, 2012

Charm Retractable Flat Top Brush Review




Happy Friday everyone!  Isn't it great that weekend is here?  Well, after 2 weeks of staying at home, I'm finally going out tomorrow for our high school 15th year reunion!  Yes guys, 15th year!  I am that old!  *laughs*  I hope my tummy won't act up and I can catch up with my friends in no time!  I haven't seen some of them in 15 years!

Today, I will be reviewing my current brush that I take along with me no matter which bag I use!  It's the Charm Retractable Flat Top Brush.


Thursday, August 23, 2012

How to Lighten Your Brows





I have colored hair for as long as I can remember and mind you, all these years, I have thick, dark brows so they never match with my hair color!

Thank goodness for existence of lighter brow pencils!  I bought several especially during my Seoul, Korea trip and it helped lighten the look of my brows!

Just when I thought lighter shade of eyebrow pencil is the answer to my brow problem, I was introduced to the world of brow gels!  My favorite was the one I bought in Singapore called SANA Styling W Brow,  I was able to tint my brows with not much effort!  A couple of weeks ago, I posted this photo on Instagram after an event and I received emails and comments asking me for a tutorial on how I do my brows.

Well, you're in luck!  It's "This is How I Do It: My Brows --- AMW Style"!  I find this the best and easiest technique to create fuller, lighter-looking brows that lasts the whole day!

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

How to: Contour the Face for Daytime




Good morning AMW Readers!  I'm still suffering from colds, maybe I pushed my body to the limit, but I'm staying positive!  I may look like crap at the moment but there's always makeup to the rescue!  *shhh*

For this week's "This Is How I Do It" post, it is inspired by readers' comments on how they dislike to contour on regular days as it will look fake on them!  Well guess what?  There is such thing as contouring for daytime!  That's why I came up with a simple tutorial I do as I like to create dimension on my face but it's always subtle-looking!  

Before you scroll further down, here are some of the old articles I've written about Nose Contouring and  face contouring (super old post).  Some of the products I've used are a shade or 2 darker powder foundation, MAC sculpting powder in Lightsweep/Shadester, Stila Contouring Trio and in this tutorial, my Yves Rocher Duo Powder/Bronzer!  (reviews will be up in the future)

Hope you enjoy my mini tutorial!  Feel free to click Comment below if you have further queries! 

Let's start with the nose area...

With a soft angled eyeshadow brush or any fluffy brush, apply the contouring powder starting from the inner corner of the eyes as shown on photo below.


Tuesday, July 31, 2012

How to Spot Conceal




Happy Tuesday girls and boys!  "This is How I do it" is back with more tricks and tips!  Thank you so much AMW readers for taking the time to email me just to show me some love!  And to those who have special requests for this portion, thank you!  I'll do my best to accommodate them because I love to share what I learn through years of makeup artistry!

Concealing - a very important yet tricky step in makeup application!  I used to apply concealer and not see any differences so I totally gave up on it!  Until I went to makeup school, my thoughts on concealing shifted 360 degrees!  It can definitely make or break any makeup look!  Bottom line though, you need to take a lot of practice to master the art of concealing.  (Personal note: I'm definitely not a concealing master, but I always strive to do my best with loads of practice.)

Just in case you wonder, yes, I have zits once in awhile.  Just in time for this post, tiny red spots appeared on my right cheek and I immediately turned this bad situation into our advantage!  The best time to share some tips and tricks on Spot Concealing.  

(I'm turning the situation into a positive one but I'm not really looking forward for more of these ok? Pimple gods?  hihihi)

Step 1:
Before you start with any makeup application, it is best to do your usual skincare regimen.  Sun block, moisturizer, primers or BB creams --- whatever your hearts desire.


Tuesday, July 24, 2012

How to: Quick Day Time Look




Good morning AMW friends!  Today is another "This is How I Do it" series!  I was asked by one of my reader how I usually do my makeup on a regular work-day!  Well, since I work from home, I usually go "bare-faced" but on days I need to go somewhere for a quick event or meeting, here's how I create a look that I'm very comfortable with and I'm sure I still look like myself!  (Hopefully, the better version! :P)

Here are some of the products I used ----

Friday, July 20, 2012

AMW Reviews: Charm Angled Kabuki Buffer Brush

Goodness!  It's already Friday!  This week passed by pretty quickly right?  Or was it just me?

Today, I will be sharing a review on one of the newest baby from Charm!  It was a huge HIT for me when Sophie created the Charm Essentials Travel Pointed Brush and I've been very vocal in praising her for a job well done!  Since I got it, I've been using it constantly to apply foundation, concealer and even cream blush!

Then, I was told 2 more new brushes will be launched at the same time with the Travel Pointed Brush, I nearly brushed off the idea as I'm already contented with what I have.

True to what they say: "You can never have enough brushes!"  --- I'm not sure who said it?  Was it my own voice?  *laughs*

Just when I read good reviews popping out here and there on various blogs, I told myself I need this too!  I need to try this out and see what the fuss was all about! 

Charm says ---
The Charm Angled Kabuki Buffer Brush is made of ultra lush bristles that feels like velvet on the skin. Buff in your mineral foundation, powder foundation, or any powder product with this brush!

Its angled shape allows you to efficiently apply your makeup and work thru the folds and contours of the skin so that no spot would be missed out. This very dense brush also allows you to obtain buildable coverage, from light to full!

AMW says ---
Pros
  • Length is perfect for personal and even professional use! (Even if this is not a full sized length)
  • Charm handle never chip and I own a lot of Charm brushes and the logo remains even after all the washing.
  • Brush hairs are synthetic, so perfect for people who are into vegan makeup brushes!
  • Super soft and 100% no scratchy feel!
  • No bleeding nor shedding even on first wash.
  • Multifunctional: Can be used to apply liquid, cream or powdered products.
  • Super dense and gives a nice
  • Inexpensive for the quality you get.

Cons
  • Takes longer to dry as compared to your other face brushes.
Overall
Perfect density.  Very soft.  No bleeding nor shedding.  Super useful!

Tips
  • Always wash new brushes with a baby shampoo prior to usage.  Follow washing instructions.
  • Best way to dry this brush is to lay this on a clean and dry towel, the towel does absorb the extra water and moisture making it quicker to dry!  You can choose to spritz the bristles with brush cleaner after every use then deep cleanse once a week.
  • To create a very natural "contoured" look, pull out your liquid/cream/powdered foundation that's a bit darker than your original skin color, apply the darker foundation on areas that you want to recede.  (Hollows of cheeks, temples, sides of nose, chin etc..).  With your shade of foundation, buff the product on the rest of your face blending with the darker foundation!  
  • If you used this brush to apply liquid or cream products, try not to use this to apply powdered products.  If you must, use a quick drying makeup cleaner in between.
  • The perfect way to use this brush (personally) is by BUFFING then SLIDING!  You buff like regular kabuki brush then slide downwards with the longer bristles facing top to create not only flawless but super natural-looking skin!  (As foundation application should be the same direction as the growth of your facial hair.)
  • Must....own!
Will I repurchase?
I won't need to repurchase as all my Charm brushes are still working to date.  I would highly recommend this to friends and YOU.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who loves to "buff" their powder foundation or likes to apply liquid/cream foundation using a brush!

Where to purchase and how much?
Php650.00 (approx $15.00) at Beauty and Minerals Website.
If you want to see the brushes up close and personal, you can check them out at PurBeauty, Serendra and The Ramp, Crossings at Shangri-La Plaza Branch Ground Floor.

Photos


 Charm Angled Kabuki Buffer Brush
Up close
The length of brush hair is perfect for buffing.  The slanted tip works perfect especially when placed on the hollows of your cheeks.

Top view:
The tip of the brush is also perfect for liquid/cream foundation application!

Did you know that? 
You save a lot of your makeup by using a brush instead of sponge or your fingers.


Perfect density
The brush hairs go back to its original place no matter how much I try to "mess it up"!


On regular no-makeup makeup look, I prefer to use a darker powder to be applied on areas of my face that I would like to contour.  


BUFF and SLIDE!


Happy AMW!

The Charm Angled Kabuki Buffer Brush may seem like a brush that you want but do not need.  In truth, once you get to try the angled version of a buffer brush, you will enjoy the luxurious feeling of sweeping this brush on your skin and the "contoured" effect it natural gives due to its angled tip!  I ended up using this brush in applying my blush and contouring powder too, okay, even my setting powder!  Sorry Angled K-Brush, you're overused!

Have you tried Angled K-Brush?
Is it from Charm or from other brands?  
Do you like it?  I"d love to hear from you!

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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!






(Product received as gift.  Reviews 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

Saturday, June 23, 2012

AMW Reviews: Charm Essentials Travel Pointed Foundation Brush

For someone who owns 3 professional brush sets and a couple of travel sets, you'd think I've seen and owned them all!

WRONG!

Recently, my dearest friend Sophie (who just celebrated her birthday) gifted me a gorgeous brush that's meant to be kept inside my makeup pouch!  (Sorry dear clients, I'm claiming this for personal use!) 

I've been meaning to blog about this last week but I have to wait for Charm to launch this brush first before I blab away!  Thankfully, this was launched 2 days ago and I'm so happy as the price is affordable so this gorgeous brush is within reach!  


Charm says ---
This ultra-versatile foundation brush applies and blends cream/liquid products to a flawless finish, and features a gently tapered tip that allows precision on targeted areas. Perfect for concealing and foundation application.

Our On-the Go Pointed Foundation Brush will blend in perfectly with your existing travel makeup kit, that you may never have to scrimp on flawless coverage wherever you go!

AMW says ---
Pros
  • Has the usual Charm Pink handle.  
  • Versatile - can be used to apply liquid/cream foundations, cream blush, concealer etc...
  • Super soft, synthetic hair.  No scratchy feel.
  • The pointed tip makes it easy to reach to areas like under the eyes, sides of the nose, etc...
  • No shedding nor bleeding even on first wash.
  • The brush hairs are dense and not flimsy at all!
  • Though this is a travel size, the brush head is as good as PRO-sized brush.
  • Inexpensive for the quality.
Cons
  • Like any foundation brush, it takes double the effort to wash the brush properly as cream/liquid products are more difficult to remove.
Overall
Versatile brush that has the right density and control to create light, medium to heavy coverage!

Tips
  • Wash upon purchase.
  • If the brush is used with cream or liquid products, mix your baby shampoo with Extra Virgin Olive Oil or you may purchase inexpensive cleansing oils before washing it off with baby shampoo.
  • After every use, it helps to wipe off some of the products on a clean towel or makeup remover wipes to prevent makeup from sticking into the brush hairs making it extra difficult to wash.
  • If used to apply foundation: Dot foundation on areas of your skin that needed the most coverage, with Charm Essentials Travel Pointed Foundation Brush, brush the foundation downwards blending the foundation to the skin making sure to cover all areas.  
  • If used to apply concealer/correction:  Dot the concealer on your problem areas by using your fingers, using the pointed tip of Charm Essentials Travel Pointed Foundation Brush, gently brush off hard edges to make it look more natural.
  • If you plan to take this along for travel, it pays to put this brush inside a zip lock or use a brush protector to prevent stains on your makeup pouch.
Will I repurchase? 
I won't need to repurchase another one but I highly recommend this to others!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes to apply liquid/cream products with the use of brush!

Where to purchase and how much?
Available at Beauty and Minerals for Php399.00 (approx $9.30).  Also available at PurBeauty  Serendra, Crossings Shangri-la, Crossings Trinoma.  For readers based in Singapore, Charm makeup brushes are available via LushShop

Product photo and usage

A closer look on Charm Essentials Travel Pointed Foundation Brush
Brush hairs are synthetic (animal-friendly) and has a nice density.  The slanted portion of the brush (shown on photo below) makes blending a breeze with just a few downward strokes.  By using a brush in foundation application, you use lesser product and creates a more even, flawless finish.


For concealer application
I prefer dotting the concealer with my fingers on areas needed then gently brush off with soft, feather-like motion to make concealing more natural.



For Foundation Application
As I dot foundation on the center of my face, I use the brush to lightly spread the foundation using downwards stroke.  I like concentrating on foundation application at the center of my face as that's were most of my redness shows!  

It's best to always step back and check your foundation application, make sure everything is seamless then set with your preferred setting powder.

I actually requested Sophie to create a bigger version of this as I originally thought it would take me forever to apply foundation with a travel sized brush!  After road testing this new brush from Charm, I can happily shut my mouth!  I don't need to request for a bigger version as the brush size is equivalent to a full sized brush!  That's a huge value for money!  


How do you feel about Charm's newest brush?
Do you need the Pointed Foundation brush in your life?
Why or why not?


Keep smilin'
Stay happy!







(Product gifted to me.  Reviews 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)