These are a few of my favorite J&J products!

 

It is J&J x Shopee Super Beauty Day!

What’s in store?  Deals up to 50% off for 3 days only!  There are so many products to discover and so many products to use.  Let me break it down for you!

Discover the Science of Healthy Mouth with Listerine!

I have tried all the variants but my favorite is the new Listerine Total Care Zero Mouthwash 500ml

Discover the Science of Every Skin

Neutrogena has been around for so many years, it has won various Beauty Awards even eons ago when I was jus starting out Blogging. The Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentale Foaming Cleanser is my favorite cleanswer for in-between face washing.  

Discover the Soothing Science of Oats

And if we want to talk about Gentle, check out dermatologically tested Aveeno Skin Relief Lotion. I suffered from eczema the whole quarantie and this particular lotion helped me not only in the department of soothing but it healed my skin issues as well.

And let’s not forget for those who have babies or toddlers at home, Johnson’s Milk + Rice Bath products should always be part of your shopping list!

Neutrogena Fine Fairness Light Mask Review

What's this nifty gadget that I'm recently using?

It's called the Neutrogena Fine Fairness Light Mask (Php4,200.00)  and I felt really "cool" whenever I use it!  I felt like I have my own facial center right at home!  But what is this gadget and what can it do for your skin?

I've had this product for a couple of months now but I only got the chance to review this after several usage!  

Now, to really have the complete experience, you need to try this with the Cleanser, Toner, Serum, Gel Cream and Overnight Cream.  I have to admit, I didn't change any of my skincare products because if I plan to, it will probably take you another year to finally see this post!  My skin is a bit sensitive in terms of changing skincare products.  So for the sake of review, and to know if this product (the Light mask) really works, I used this just as is, without the aid of the rest of the Fine Fairness range.  I'm sure you can find reviews on other bloggers who've tried this mask together with the product range.!

If you want to know if this product will work on its' own using your own skincare products, this is the right post for you!

Introducing Neutrogena Fine Fairness Light Mask, a beauty device which uses dual-power light energy that goes deeper beyond the surface of your skin, ensuring that your skin gets long-lasting radiant skin tone. Clinically-proven to regenerate skin from beneath, 96% of consumers saw improved tone within 30 days of usage.Save your time in going to the dermatologist for this cutting-edge skincare technology – You can give your skin a radiant glow in the comfort of your own home today.

Tip for the Day: On Beauty Tips from Anne Curtis (and me!)

Dear AMW Friends, 

Okay, the title sounds exciting because it says Beauty Tips from Anne Curtis (I just want to grab your attention!)  If I've written Beauty Tips from Me, you're probably not reading this post!  *laughs * Got ya!

Who wouldn't want to hear beauty tips from the goddess Anne Curtis?  I have to admit, I'm never a fan/follower of a particular actress but one local actress I look up to is Anne Curtis!  She's not only gorgeous, she's got the confidence any woman would love!  And because of that, you see Anne on TV multiple times a day and you wonder what keeps her from looking tired, haggard and stressed!

One of the most recent commercial I've seen from her is her Athena Commercial.  Athena is said to be the only milk with Beautrition, Antioxidants and Vitamins A, E and Zinc that gives woman the healthy glow!

 

Seriously, I need that, I do not have enough sleep since I gave birth so watching Anne share her beauty tips on how to have a healthy glow that comes from inside and out via Athena Beauty Hour websisodes!  Of course, aside from her tips I'm injecting my own at the latter part of this post especially for women who can't get as much sleep as much as they want to! 

BDJ Box and Glamourbox for the Month of June

Happy Friday!
Today is unboxing day!  I have received 2 subscription boxes from 2 companies that I like!  BDJ Box and Glamourbox for the month of June!  Let me share to you the products that I got inside!  I hope you are as excited as I was!

BDJ Box 

Eight amazing products are included in this month's boxed subscription.  

I Wonder: "Any Fragrance-Free Lip Moisturizers Out There?"

During my first trimester of pregnancy, I was one of the "lucky" pregnant women who suffer from heightened sense of smell!  I am not joking when I tell you that I literally vomit within seconds upon opening up a tub of face cream!  It was during those times I realized, keeping myself beautiful isn't a priority anymore!  Steering clear from vomiting is definitely the number ONE priority back then!  

Who cares about smooth, moisturized skin or lesser under eye circles when you feel like throwing up all the time?  I would love to raise my hands with you ladies but unfortunately, when my lips were starting to crack and bleed, I told myself I have to take action and search for non-scented skincare and lip care products!

UNFORTUNATELY, it wasn't easy!  Petroleum jelly?  Sad to say, they still have a specific "petroleum jelly-ish" scent!  Mint?  Who says mint-scented lip moisturizers can help stop you from throwing up?  Trust me, it didn't work!

So off I went to search for a non-scented lip products and I wasn't able to find any!  (or I wasn't looking close enough!).

Thankfully, my sister-in-law told me about the Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer with SPF15 that she bought during our Hong Kong trip and immediately offered it to me!  Because of that, I was able to smile in this photo!

Photo taken during my first trimester without makeup on 

except Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer!

 

I wasn't able to take a product shot of it so I grabbed one over the internet.  (source)

"Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer softens, smoothes and protects dry, chapped lips with no waxy feel.  This moisture-enriched formula soothes and conditions your lips, keeping them healthy looking and soft in all weather.  Contains a PABA-free SPF 15 sunblock for added protection from the sun.  Leaves lips soft, smooth and moisturized.  Fragrance-free."                                                                        

Bare lips applied with a layer of 

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer

Overall, I can't say it's the best lip balm out there but it's the best in terms of protecting my lips from extreme dryness during my most sensitive pregnancy days!  I'm sure not all pregnant women are as lucky as I am to have a sister-in-law who shared to me her fragrance-free lip moisturizer so it's time to help other sensitive noses out there!

I wonder:
"Any other fragrance-free lip moisturizers out there
 that you know of?"

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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Readers' Corner: My Pregnancy Skincare

Happy Friday my dear readers!  Today, I will be writing a special post on the most requested "Pregnancy Skincare Routine" that I've been doing since I got pregnant.  The readers who asked are either pregnant while some aren't, they just have strong sensitive to product scent or some have really sensitive skin!  

Please bear in mind that the products listed below are used based on my continuous product testing and I did ask my Doctor regarding some of the products used below!  If you are pregnant and has sensitivity to certain ingredients, it is very important to ask your doctor, they are way more professional than I am!  :)

It is funny how our body works, as soon as I got pregnant, no matter how much I would like to use my regular skincare regimen, my strong sensitivity to product scents puts me off and it was automatic for me to use the least products possible!  I call my Pregnancy Skincare Regimen the "Evolution of Man" stage!  I started from the super basic "water only" cleansing routine then slowly improving as my morning sickness subsides!  

First 2 Months ---

I cannot stay inside a washroom without the urge to throw up so I always try to be as quick as possible when I brush my teeth and wash my face.  My skin survived 2 full months of just plain water and scrubbing my face using my Konjac Sponge! (Please read past review HERE.)  It was a big surprise for me that I did not have breakout at all!  My skin looks okay, not at its best but I can face anyone with bare face at this stage!  

I Wonder: 'Unavailable' Products You Love

You've found your Holy Grail product and have been happily using it for quite some time.  Then... BOOM!!! Upon trying for a repurchase, you can't seem to find them anywhere!  You searched high and low and asked around, nobody seems to know the answer. Cold sweat is starting to appear on your forehead, the product you love and swore by disappeared right in front of you.

Sounds familiar?

Whether these products are discontinued or aren't locally available, I have a few products on top of my head (all powder foundations) and you, my dear friends can help add up the list (skincare, makeup, hair care, etc...) by commenting below after this post!  

Neutrogena Fine Fairness UV Compact

I posted a review on this product 2 years ago and I remembered calling this: "Not the BEST powder foundation out there but this baby has a lot to say for a drugstore brand!"  

True enough, this product indeed has a lot to say as once it was discontinued, emails were pouring in by readers who swore by this product asking me why they can't find this anymore!   True enough, I can't find these too and it made me and my mom sad!  My mom loved this powder foundation so much and we've both hit and pan and are willing to repurchase!

Paul & Joe Protective Dual Powder Foundation

What more can I say?  When Paul & Joe products were readily available at Rustans Makati, I was one of the few "victims" (in a very good way) who loves to stay inside the store for makeovers and what else?   Shopping!  A long time reader would know how much I love the Paul & Joe Protective Dual Powder Foundation and I've purchased and repurchased so many times I have my own VIP card!  *laughs*  

Because I believe in the quality of this product, I purchased all the shades and have backups on each shade for my clients!  Who would've thought the day when Paul & Joe left the Philippines finally arrived?  I call it Dooms Day! 

Revue Still Keep Pact UV by Kanebo

Because Paul & Joe products aren't available locally, I've decided to hunt for a similar powder foundation that I can use for clients!  After several tests, I've finally found the one! 

Since the product is a bit pricey, I've decided to go for refills and put them on my Z-Palette!  So far, I'm happy with these and I'm glad I bought several shades too!  

But of course, there's a reason why this product is included in this post!  These are also discontinued and they're not available anymore!  *sniff*  

I Wonder:
"Have you found a product you want to hold on forever but found it to be unavailable or even discontinued?"

Share your thoughts and who knows?  The products you love could be available at areas you don't frequently go to.

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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

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)

AMW Reviews: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Complete UV Waterlight Lotion SPF50+ PA+++

How's Mother's Day celebration?  Mine went well, I can't believe how much we can food trip in a day!  I'm glad to have spent quality time with both families and I feel good how much we value Mother's Day celebration!  

When I was younger, I used to complain how unfair the world not to celebrate "Children's Day"! (There actually is Children's Day by the way), but you know what?  Looking back, everyday has been children's day in our parents' eyes so they deserve the break! 

Back to regular programming!  A review of a face sunblock I've been using for more than a month!  The weather calls for it!

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Complete UV Waterlight Lotion SPF50 PA+++ says ---

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Complete UV Waterlight Lotion SPF50 PA+++ is a superior ultra-lightweight protection lotion against UV and environmental aggressors for healthy, beautifully radiant skin. With breakthrough Helioplex™ that works like an invisible shield for skin by effectively blocking out harmful UVA/UVB rays and helping neutralize free radical damage. Skin is provided with superior protection against darkening and signs of premature aging.  

Dermatologist tested, PABA-free, oil-free, does not clog pores.

Volume: 30ml

Active Ingredients:  Ethylhexyl Salicylate 5%, Octocrylene 4%, Benzophenone-3 5%, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane 3%, Homosalate 10%.

Ingredients:

Water, Homosalate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Alcohol Denat, Cetyl Dimethicone, Octocrylene, Silica, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Dimethicone, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Steareth-100, Cyclopentasiloxane, Trisiloxane, Diethylhexyl 2,6-Naphthalate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Steareth-2, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Benzyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Neopentyl Glycol Bisabolol, Propylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Butylene Glycol, Fragrance, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Mannan, Xanthan Gum, BHT, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Pantothenic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Retinyl Palmitate.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Packaging is compact and I like the how you can control how much product that will come out.

• Mild fragrance.
• No allergies experienced.
• Does not leave sticky or heavy feel! I don't feel like I have sunblock on!
• Finishes up "matte".
• Gets absorbed into the skin quite fast!
• Acts as a good make-up base but keep in mind this is NOT a primer!
• Does not aggravate dryness on dry skinned individuals!  Keep in mind to moisturize well prior to sunblock application!  
• Leave a couple of minutes after each application before you get to the next step!  
• For oily skin:  Does not give a shiny look, feels ultra light! (Mr. AMW who has oily skin tried this for us)

Cons

• Checking the ingredients, it contains alcohol which may cause skin irritations to some.

Overall
Gives a good "feel" and "texture" for a facial sunblock!

Tips

• Always shake before usage.
• Use at the END of your skin care routine.
• Apply liberally on face and neck!  Do not forget your neck and back of the ears.
• Try not to get into the eye area as it will sting!  Wash off immediately with water.
• Apply at least 15-20 minutes before you leave the house.
• Re-apply after excessive sweating or after getting out of the pool/beach.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Oily, combination or dry skinned individuals who likes to apply face sunblock with an ultra light feel!

Where to purchase and how much?

Php460.00 (approx $10.70) available at leading department stores, beauty and personal care stores and supermarket nationwide!

Waterlight texture and feel but it's not too runny! 

Texture is just right!

Can easily spread all over the skin surface

Gets absorbed into the skin as quickly as one minute!
I counted! :P

The name of the product lives up to my expectation!  The product indeed is as light as water!  So far, I've tried using this when I was out under the harsh sun for an hour plus, without re-application, and my skin stays the same shade!  The only downside I can find is the possible "allergies" some of the ingredients may cause to some individuals who have sensitive skin!

Have you tried this product?
Will definitely share more reviews on other facial sunblocks I've tried!

Enjoy your summer!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Tip for the Day: Face Sunblock

I can clearly remember those days during summer when I would save up to purchase a bottle of Coppertone 25 (the highest number available back then) for whatever swimming activities planned out!  These days, with the excruciating heat from the sun, SPF25 is not even enough!  Aside from applying sunblock all over the body, I strongly suggest everyone to use face sunblock as well!

"It'll turn me into a grease ball"

"I'll probably breakout!"
"I don't like the heavy feel!"

Whatever your reasons are, well, reason no more!  More and more companies are coming up with GOOD sunblock for the face which I find myself  addicted to it!  I'm glad I've finally incorporated this into my skin care regimen!

Here are just some of the sunblock brands I've used, I am currently using and will be using!  Watch out for in depth reviews as I have only one face and it takes time for me to finish one bottle!  *laughs*

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Complete UV Waterlight Lotion SPF 50+ PA+++ 

Php460.00/approx $10.95)

I am currently using this and so far, I am very happy with this!  Injecting this into my skin care is a breeze as it does not have the heavy feel and it gives a matte finish which makes it easy for me to put on make-up!  Does not oil up my skin throughout the day and it doesn't dry my skin out as well!

The Face Shop Natural Intensive Sun Cream SPF 50 PA++

Php495.00 (approx$11.50)

This was my first Sunblock for the face ever!  It didn't fail me!  Finished up a tube of this and definitely worth repurchasing!  Smile and click review HERE.

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream SPF50 PA+++

Php1,998 (approx $46.00)

Okay, this is a bit too pricey as compared to other brands mentioned here!  But Shiseido Sun Protection creams has been known for quite some time for its good performance!  The matte finish that you get after application, the protection and the fact that a lot of people feel it doesn't cause allergic reactions to their skin.

If you have money to spare, this is a good sunblock for the face!  I've used this a couple of times but saving the rest up and use the more inexpensive ones on a daily basis!  

 

Nivea Sun Whitening Immediate Sun Protection  SPF50 PA++

Php379.00-427.00 (approx $8.81-$10.00)

This is an intriguing product for me because this is the first sunblock that promises immediate sun protection!  No more waiting time, just apply and get out to enjoy the sun!  I am really looking forward to test this out and will report back! 

Beach Hut Face SPF65

Php399.00 (approx $9.25)

The highest SPF for the face and it promotes to be really good to very sensitive skin! Also watch out for an in-depth review for this!

 

What are you using to protect your face from sun spots, aging or wrinkles?
If you are reading this post and you don't apply face sunblock, what are you doing here? 
Get out and buy yourself one! *lol*
Sunblock is really one of the best skincare secret that's not so secret anymore!

Happy weekend!
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reports: Start the Year Light with Neutrogena

"Start the year light with Fine Fairness"

The tagline fits perfectly with 2010 coming to close and 2011 just around the corner.  My sister's favorite skincare line and my favorite sunblock brand Neutrogena are inviting the rest of the female population to Start the Year Light with the Neutrogena Fine Fairness line!  

To help embody this message of this campaign, Neutrogena has selected 8 Fine Fairness Ambassadors in the person of Manila's current Beauty Icons:

Solenn Heusaff

Patty Laurel

  Isabel Roces

Georgia Schulze-del Rosario

 

And I am very proud that the brand also included Manila's top beauty bloggers:

Hannah Villasis

Phoebe Ann Ramos

Jane Kingsu-Cheng

Earth Rullen

Thanks for the invite I was able to meet the 8 Neutrogena Ambassadors face to face and I can see how they are all approachable, intelligent, naturally beautiful, confident and glowing in person!  I was told it took them seven products of the Fine Fairness range to achieve the said glow.  It was a shocking number to hear for the first time but compared to the gorgeous skin of Koreans and how many products they use to achieve said skin (I heard it's around 15-20 products), seven is not a bad number!

Fine Fairness Cleanser

Fine Fairness Toner

Fine Fairness Lotion SPF30/PA++

Fine Fairness Cream

Fine Fairness UV Brightening Moisture SPF50+/PA+++

Fine Fairness Deep Whitening Mask

Fine Fairness Serum

I will give a deeper review on the said products above at the start of the year because I am just done with the skincare routine I am using at the moment!

To discuss more about the Ambassadors' Fine Fairness experience, and to formally introduce the Start of the Year Light campaign to the general public, the Start the Year Light party was held at Watson's SM Makati hosted by none other than a fabulous woman Ms. Christine Jacob-Sandejas.

The girls where interviewed to talk about the two-weekend getaway they've experienced exactly 8 weeks before the start of the new year provided to understand each of the eight benefits that Fine Fairness offers.

November 13 Theme: Block and Prevent

The lovely ladies enjoyed a gastronomic indulgence in the cozy and elegant home of Chef Vince Rodriguez.  Then the Brand Manager of Neutrogena Gabby Roxas facilitated the day of wellness and inner radiance.  Joining him was Dr. Jason Penaranda, a medical doctor who uses natural methods to manage health.  He instructed the Ambassadors how to block toxins in their bodies so that they can start the new year feeling light.

(Photo Credits: Neutrogena Philippines) 

Analei Atienza, managing director of the Singapore School Manila and an active member of International Life Coach Federation, walked the Ambassadors through exercises to psyche them up for a bright future and to prevent negative thinking.  This is very similar to how Fine Fairness prevents melanin production to allow skin to glow.

(Photo Credits: Neutrogena Philippines)

November 27 Theme: Protect, Shield, Restore, Renew, Lighten and Calm

The girls were brought to the Nurture Spa Village, tucked away in Tagaytay.  To understand the last 6 benefits of the Neutrogena Fine Fairness range, the ladies had a sumptuously healthy breakfast then headed off for an outdoor photoshoot during which they experienced the protecting and shielding benefits from the harmful rays of the sun.

This photoshoot was followed by signature Nurture Spa massages for a much needed relaxation and an outdoor yoga session, led by yoga instructor, Joseph de Asis.  Yoga helped the Ambassadors restore their muscles to their supple and flexible states, calm their minds, bodies and souls which led them to experience the restoring, renewing, lightening and calming benefits!

(Photo Credits: Neutrogena Philippnes) 

The event was successful and I am glad to be part of the crowd to cheer on the Ambassadors!  As a beauty blogger, I know I wanted to start the year light both physically and mentally to share to the readers my positive outlook in life!

Thanks to Neutrogena, Watson's and Nuffnang for the invite!  It was a fun event!

To my readers,  how will you start the year light?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(This is a sponsored post.)