Reader's Corner: Q&A + Gift from PrettyBeautiful

Thank you!!!

I can't believe it's mid-January and I still get some post-Christmas gift! Thank you so much Prettybeautiful for the wonderful gift! She's my nail art sistah who loves nail art as much as I do so I am touched that she sent me Etude House Nail Art stickers and she added a super pretty Revlon Diamond Lust in Bedroom Bronze!!! So pretty!!! Thank you!!!

It's dome shaped with shimmer!
So pretty and sexy to brush all over the shoulders on a night out!

Swatched without base

I'm excited to use them!!! :D

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Again, I've got some queries in which I answered directly and I would like to post it here as well so everyone can share their opinions and comments!

Question ---

Is Monistat Chaffing Gel good as primer?

Askmewhats Answers ---

I personally haven't used Monistat Chaffing Gel as I don't have oily skin to start with. I have owned Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Light and Paul & Joe Primer in which I use mostly for clients. My skin isn't oily for me to pile on extra primer.

I have read a lot of raves about the Monistat as primer cause it's cheaper compared to the high end ones and it works as well. But use with discretion as not everything that works well on others will definitely work for you.

But if you're really intrigued and you've got the means to purchase it, why not? Just to satisfy your curiousity and it isn't an expensive query! :)


Question ---

Which is better MMU? EDM or Joppa Minerals?

Askmewhats Answers ---

In my dictionary, I can't tell which is better as being an EDM and Joppa Minerals user (referring to foundation), I've used both alternately. Some days, my skin loves EDM and some days they love Joppa More.

I can do a tiny comparison though:

1. Joppa is definitely creamier and easier to blend, perfect for colder months.
2. EDM gives out a really clean and matte look perfect for the summer.
3. Joppa has heavier coverage, EDM coverage is good too but if you want heavier coverage, you need to re-apply.
4. Joppa has the tendency to oxidize on my skin.
5. EDM samples are free but you have to pay for shipping. Joppa samples aren't free but wait for their free worldwide shipping promo.

Question ---

How do you keep your liner from smudging on the under eyes?

Askmewhats Answers ---

There is no sure-fire way for liners not to smudge especially for us living in a tropical and humid country. I find my Urban Decay 24/7 which everyone raves that do not smudge on them smudges on me! My advise is to use an eye primer and fill in not only the upper eye area but use a "taklon" or "concealer" brush and apply on the under eye area as well.

A brush like this or much better, a smaller head

Question ---

How do you used the stippling brush with cream foundation? Isn't it messy?

Askmewhats Answers ---

I don't find using cream foundation with a stippling brush is messy at all. Here's what I do with my Paul & Joe light cream foundation using my MAC187 Stippling Brush in application.
(note: Remember to sanitize everything before you use them)

What you need ---

A CD that you don't use anymore
A spatula/scooper
MAC187 or any stippling brush/Duo Fiber brush
Any Cream Foundation (in my case I use my Paul & Joe cream foundation)

Scoop out a minimal amount of cream foundation and transfer to the CD
Do not scoop out too much, add as you go along so you won't waste product



Tap on the Stippling/ Duo Fiber Brush and apply on your face
Again, make sure all your tools are sanitized!

Question ---

Hi Nikki, how long does it usually take for your ebay orders to arrive here? I'd like to buy BB cream, but I'm concerned about the waiting time.

Askmewhats Answers ---

Most of my ebay orders arrive in 2-3 weeks max! Most of the bb creams I've ordered are shipped within the day of payment or the next day. Thank goodness I don't have problems with my shipment!

Question ---

Nikki! I need help with mascara! I don't know which one to get at MAC or should I go for other brands? I want volume and length, won't smudge but easy to take off! I heard Fasio is good but is hard to remove.

Askmewhats Answers ---

I've owned and used Fasio 3D airtech mascara and it is really hard to remove!!! I would say it's the best inexpensive mascara I've tried but removing it is really tedious!!! But if you own Lancome Bi-facil, they say it removes any stubborn mascara so you can feel free to purchase Fasio.

If you are very particular with brands, then you can go purchase on the particular brand. When it comes to mascara, I wouldn't mind testing on different brands as that is one product that expires easily and I don't want to shell out too much.

The most expensive mascara I've tried is my Paul & Joe Curly Mascara, and I've used Maybelline's Unstoppable Shiny Black Mascara, both mascara price differs a lot! But I find that Maybelline's work for me as well as Paul & Joe.

Here are some mascaras that I didn't have the chance to review but I've used in the past that's worth looking into.

• L'oreal Telescopic Mascara (Check out Shen's Review )
• The Face Shop Freshian Volume/Curly Mascara

Seldom can we find both volumizing and lengthening mascara. What I do is I actually use 2 coats of different mascaras! I get the best of both worlds. It works for me, maybe it will work for you too!


Well, that's it for now!
Humpy Wednesday!
I'm glad!!!
Stay happy!!!



Please check out ---
Askmewhats Seminar for a Cause

Make Up Forever Camouflage Cream Palette No. 5 Review

The Make Up Forever Camouflage Cream Palette, I've been lemming this for the longest time. What stopped me from purchasing? The price! Hell would I pay Php1,600 (approx $34.00) for such small concealer!

Weekend Food Tripping at: Gerry's Grill, Tagaytay

Hola friends!!!

Early this year, we had a quick trip to Tagaytay City. It's quite close to Manila, where the World's smallest volcano Taal Volcano is located. It's approximately 1 1/2 hours of driving. The weather is cooler as Tagaytay is located "up" there, it was super windy which makes it even worst! I'm glad we brought our jackets cause I thought people were exaggerating when they say it's cold! :)

Anyways, we stopped by at a good Filipino Restaurant called Gerry's Grill. All the restaurants at Tagaytay at that time was packed because of the holidays. We had to wait for 20 minutes for our seat and when we finally had our seat, we waited for another 40minutes for the meal!!! Oh no right? And I was super hungry and cold that time as it's windy and the restaurant is an open-air type of restuarant!!!

Here's what we ordered which got cold after 5 minutes! lol

Sinigang na Baboy
Sour Soup with Tamarind as Sour agent
plus Pork and vegetables

Approx Php180++ (approx $3.00-4.00)

Gambas or Spicy Prawns
This is a great Filipino Appetizer.
Prawns sauteed in hot pepper sauce, tomatos and chilis with egg

Approx Php200+ (approx $4.00-5.00)



Clubhouse Sandwhich (Gerry's Grill Style)
I love this!
This is my favorite!
Regular clubhouse sandwhich ingredients topped with melted cheese!

Approx Php235++ (approx $5.00-6.00)

Actually we still have one dish called Sisig! It's considered exotic food to other culture. We forgot to take a photo of it as everyone was HUNGRY!!!! (I took a photo from the web)

*photo credit from Pinoyrecipe.net

It looks delicious huh? But here's what Sisig really is ---

Sisig is actually made of chopped parts of the pig's head -- ears, snout, etc.... Gross? LOL it actually ain't that gross. But over the years, some people who are uneasy to try on these type of dishes reinvented a new version using minced meat served on a sizzling platter with chili, liver, onion, seasoned with Local Lemons called Calamansi and vinegar.

Anyways, it honestly tastes good. Knowing me, I'm not an adventurous food eater, if I can chow this down, yes you can! :)

Before I end this food post, I want to share to you gals that I'm not a rice eater, but when it comes to Filipino-styled Garlic Rice!!! Count me in!!!!

Garlic Rice

It was a great trip and we played at the children's playground of Hotel Kimberly, it was our 2nd time to be there,we love the Hotel so much! Smile and click here for the review of this hotel!

And before I really end this post ...lol

Upcoming reviews!!!

I finally have my own Skin79 VIP Gold Collection
and a sample size of the Pink version Super Beblesh Balm BB Cream!!!
Check back for reviews soon!!! :)

Have a great week ahead everyone!
Stay Happy!

Please check out ---
Askmewhats Seminar for a Cause

Askmewhats Reviews: Eyeko Pretty Eyes 5-in-1 E/S Cake

Cute Packaging Alert!!!

I got my Eyeko Pretty Eye 5-in-1 eyeshadow cake a couple of days ago and I can't believe how cute their packaging is!

Here's the photo

Swatches
Based on swatches alone, applied without base, swiped 2x,
it is very Sheer!

Eyeko says ---

5 in 1 Eye Shadow For Instant Eye Beauty
With a selection of five complimentary shades per tin, mix and match your beauty moves to suit your mood.

Pretty Eyes: Play up your eyes with pastel pinks, lilac and iridescent white for a flirty feel.. CELEBRITY FAVE as seen in Reveal Magazine Issue 19: "Helena Christensen loves Eyeko Fat Balm, so we bet she can't wait to get her hands on this cute eyeshadow tin in springs hottest pink shades. Eyeko Eye Beauty in Pretty Eyes."

Askmewhats says ---

Pros

• cute choice of colors
  
• great highlighting colors for both eyes and face
• cute packaging, tin can ain't heavy to carry around
  
• affordable! And they ship worldwide! For free!
  

Cons

• very shimmery, if you're not into shimmery shadows, this is NOT for you
• some shades like nos. 1 and 5 are sheer
  
• limited choice of colors, they have only 2 pans available (Pretty Eyes and Sexy Eyes)
• no matte shade at all (I was hoping even just 1 out of the 5)
• some shades are a bit powdery (shades 3 and 4)
  

Overall

This is overall a pretty decent product, if you're young and into girly-colors or you are into a "no make up look" this is definitely for you! What I'm happy about this is that I got a back up for my Kate by Kanebo Gradical eye, the texture and look of the white shadow from Kate and Eyeko are very similar!

Tips

• use a base if you plan to use these shadows as this tend to be gone easily without base
• use a big brush and swipe it gently to the pan approx 2 x and highlight your nose bridge and cheeks!

Will I repurchase?

It will take me time to finish this product, probably another product from Eyeko :) I am lemming for their mascara! hmmm....

When can you purchase and how much?

Eyeko website for approximately $8.00 (approx Php384.00) FREE SHIPPING worldwide!
Enter code E149 and receive a free gift!

Reference eye look done using 4 out of the 5 colors
I've used (nos. 2, 3, 4, 5) <-- check out number above swatch photo

The only non-Eyeko e/s used is my Urban Decay Roach color
Eyeliner used - Coastal Scents gel liner in Truffle


I love this as a highlighter!!!
Yellow portion are the highlighted areas
Using a slanted blush brush




Result
(see how dry my lips are without anything?)
and yeah, I'm in my pajamies lol

I hope I answer those Eyeko product queries from some readers!
Have a great weekend again and let's take that beauty rest
to be ready to conquer a whole new week!!!
Stay Happy!

Please check out ---
Askmewhats Seminar for a Cause

AMW Makeover: Engagement Party + Post Christmas Gift

Last weekend was a busy weekend for me. It was my first gig for the year 2009!

Pam, a friend of mine and colleague, wanted me to do her make-up for her Engagement Party. I felt so touched as she trusted me to be her and her mom's make-up artist for the event! I do have to apologize as I didn't get the chance to take the before shot of her mom....that will follow! This shot was "unprofessionally" taken by me, as the photographer had to be at work, so please bear with my amateur shots!

Here's Pam's Before Look
Her hair already done by a hairstylist

Skin: Combination (She has a great skin to start with) Concern: Oiliness Target: A very simple yet glowy look

After Shot
(sorry, it's my bad for the bad lighting)

Products Used (as I remember) ---

Face:

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Light
Paul & Joe Cream Foundation 03 Clair
MUFE Concealer Palette no. 5
Paul & Joe Protective Powder Foundation No. 30
Joppa Finishing Silk Original Formula
Thevi Matte Shadow 231 (for blush)
Nars Orgasm
MAC Shadester (to contour)
Eyes:

MAC Coquette for brows
Paul & Joe Eyebrow Pencil no. 2
UDPP
MAC Sushi Flower
L'oreal Hip in Foxy (brown color used)
Kate gradical eyes PK2
Stila Smudgepots in Black
Shu Uemura Curler
Paul & Joe Curly Mascara in Black
Falsies
Ardell Lash Glue in clear

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I forgot to post about another Christmas gift I got from a dear blogger friend!!!
Thank you so much for thinking about me!
I know why you gave me the polish and I know why you gave me Paul & Joe!
Isn't it obvious? hahaha
Love it!!!

Have a great weekend!!!
I will be zzz'ing the whole morning for sure!
Beauty sleep!!!
Stay happy!!!



Please Check out ---
Askmewhats Seminar for a Cause