Most powdered blushes I've tried never last more than half a day. And I always ended up a nice overall made-up face sans the blush. I know the answer to my problem is to use a cream blush and set it with a blush powder to make my blush stays longer. Laziness strikes, so I haven't been doing it.
When I heard about BECCA Cosmetics and the range of products they offer. I can't help but rush to ADORA Greenbelt 5 to check out the products. The cream blushes caught my attention as I needed it both for myself and for wedding gigs or whatever gigs that needed great staying power for blushes!
Here's what I got to try!
The shade I got is called Amaryllis ---
Amaryllis is described to have an authentic burnt rose hue
No Flash
With Flash
BECCA Créme Blush says ---
The ultimate blush! This highly pigmented formulation and silky-smooth texture melds into the skin for an incredibly natural, "just blushed" look. Layer for added drama.
Provides natural, radiant, long-lasting color to cheek, producing a radiant, healthy appearance
The highly pigmented, creamy formulation can be used to emulate the look of youthful skin and is good for most skin types (except very oily or blemished skin)
Contains anti-oxidant vitamin E Preservative and paraben-free
Ingredients:Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Octyldodecanol, Cetyl Palmitate, Petrolatum, Carnauba (Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax), Candelilla Cera (Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax), Kaolin, C18-38 Alkyl Hydroxystearoyl Stearate, Tocopherol, Parfum (Fragrance) and may contain: [+/- Titanium Dioxide CI 77891, Iron Oxides CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499, Carmine CI 75470, Red 21 Lake CI 45380, Yellow 5 Lake CI 19140, Red 7 CI 15850, Ultramarines CI 77007, Red 40 CI 16035, Yellow 6 Lake CI 15985, Bismuth Oxychloride CI 77163, Blue 1 Lake CI 42090, Red 36 CI 12085, Ferric Ferrocyanide CI 77510, Mica].
Size: 3g/0.1 oz compact
AMW says---
Pros
color stays the whole day
has a tiny floral scent which is ok for me
easy to blend
creamy yet non oily
non-drying too
a tiny amount is needed for both cheeks, one pot lasts a long time!
very pigmented
packaging: made with good taste, has a mirror and protector
multi-purpose: Can be used both for the cheeks and lips and lids (only if you have non oily lids or if lid primer is used) Non-drying on lips.
Cons
packaging: a bit bulky to stack on train case if you're a makeup artist
at first glance, the price tag is steep! (but this definitely goes a loooooonnnggg way!)
if you have super oily cheeks, could oil up more, but please read tip below for super oily skin
if you apply using your fingers, you have to wash your hands afterwards
Overall
Powder blush is still the way to go for daily blush usage but if you are a budding makeup artist or professional makeup artist, this is a wonderful addition to your makeup collection as I've tried using this Creme blush as a base to the powder blush, it lasts way longer and it looks very natural on photos! I will definitely be toting this around on all my gigs!
Personally, I love using this because it gives out a "natural flush" and it looks so natural that people can't tell you're wearing a blush, I've even tried taking photos up close and it doesn't look like I'm wearing any blush at all. If you love natural, barely there makeup look, this is very pretty. For darker skin tone, you may need to apply more to achieve the flush.
Tips
From Becca
Apply over liquid or creme based products (Luminous Skin Colour, Stick Foundation, Compact Concealer) and before setting with Fine Loose Finishing Powder.
Can be used on the lips for a beautiful wash of colour.
Using Creme Blush Brush #34, apply to the "apples" of the cheeks (the fatty part of the cheek where it is possible to pinch the flesh and where you would blush naturally).
From AMW
as recommended by Ms. Amanda of Becca, Turkish Rose or Amaryllis are 2 of the bestselling creme blush shades
for dry skin: always moisturize your skin well and use the right kind of foundation for dry skin before applying this.
for oily skin: use a good primer and moisturizer for oily skin. Always set this with a loose powder to prevent from oiling up
apply in 2 ways: fingers or stippling brush
if you are using this for clients or other people? Use the film/protector to grab a tiny amount of product so you don't contaminate the whole creme blush.
if you prefer a natural flush, using this alone is ok, but if you want to give out an impact, top with a same shade of blush powder.
Will I repurchase?
No, not this shade. I will definitely check out other shades. Turkish rose (nudish rose shade) looks nice on tester!
Where to purchase and how much?
At BECCA counter ADORA, Greenbelt 5 for Php1,750 (approx $37.00)
A close up shot on Amaryllis on cheek
Amaryllis Creme Blush on Lips
What makes you flush naturally? Keep smilin' Stay happy! Stay cheeky! :D
I've got this article from a lovely friend Charisse! Thanks Char for sharing this to me and my readers. When I was growing up, my mom forces me to eat banana (take note: FORCES) but she made sure I take it right after lunch or dinner, never breakfast. Why? Because she told me "banana" would ruin my stomach and I could have ulcer...yeah ... my mom is a Doctor.. Doctor Quack (Love you still mum)
As I grew older, I've never incorporated banana as part of my morning fuel! Not until I recently read a couple of articles regarding Morning Banana Habit! :)
Smile and read on....
Want to stay slim? Go bananas!
In this age of fitness and form, developing effective methods to stay fit and healthy has taken on a life of its own. And with today’s abundance of slimming techniques that range from body cleansing programs to fat-eliminating food supplements, finding the perfect diet regimen that works for you isn’t always an easy task. Worry not because there’s a brand new way to start shedding unwanted pounds, and it has come all the way from Japan. The answer – bananas!
The Morning Banana Diet, as it is called in Japan, is the latest health trend to reach unprecedented heights among the Japanese. Spurred on by positive feedback from dieters and affirmative testimonials from celebrities, the Morning Banana Diet has indeed sparked a massive wave of interest among health-conscious individuals who are looking for a way to stay in tip-top shape without having to dig deep into their pockets. Today, its popularity has reached other countries like the US, and now the Philippines.
The Slimming Secrets of Bananas
Filipinos can also join the bandwagon and stay in shape with premium bananas from DOLE, the leading purveyor of fresh fruits and vegetables worldwide. Packed with important nutrients, DOLE Bananas aid weight loss in many ways.
To boot, bananas contain resistant starch that is responsible in enhancing fat burning by up to 30%. More filling than most fruits, bananas can easily satisfy hunger and let you feel full longer while providing the daily nutrients your body need. And since you won’t feel constantly hungry, bananas help to curb your appetite and reduce overall calorie intake in a day. What’s more, DOLE Bananas are high in fiber that helps carry away some fat as it travels through the digestive system.
DOLE Bananas can also boost metabolism as it lets you burn an extra 200 to 300 calories a day, especially when taken for breakfast. Likewise, the potassium from DOLE Bananas helps preserve muscle mass as you lose weight so you remain lean and strong. For more information surf on to www.dolebananadiet.com.ph
Easy, Affordable, and Convenient
Staying fit while keeping up with a fast-paced lifestyle is easier than one might think. For instance, by simply picking out fresh fruits and vegetables from the shelves instead of junk food from your nearby convenience store, you have already taken a big step towards losing pounds the healthy way. But keeping fit does not mean you should go hungry! Snack on freshly- cut fruits, pre-packed and pre-washed salads, or simply grab a banana!After all, healthy food like DOLE Bananas can be a good source of other nutrients that include vitamin C, vitamin B6, and protein, not to mention its various weight loss benefits.
What’s more, DOLE Bananas are very affordable, so health-conscious individuals won’t have to spend much to weigh less. They’re also convenient and ready to eat, making them the ideal partner for on-the-go and upwardly mobile individuals. Make DOLE Bananas a part of your daily diet.
DOLE Bananas are readily available in 7-Eleven, Mini Stop, and supermarkets nationwide.
Have a DOLE Banana before your workout or exercise and get that boost of energy
Another way to incorporate health in your life: Be active and exercise!
Can YOU incorporate banana in your morning routine?
I'll try on this!
Keep smilin' Stay happy! Stay healthy and banana lovin'!
I''ve always included MAC 217 as the "must have" MAC brush for blending and for creating smokey eyes. One reader caught my attention by asking my review for this famous blending brush I've been raving about! I didn't put up a review of this brush because I thought it was "given" that this brush is great..that's it! lol I guess I'm wrong! Well, if you're reading this my dear, I hope you like this post and this is for you! :) And I've learned my lesson, I should NEVER assume! :P
MAC 217 says ---
For shading or blending of color or creamy products. This brush has fine, densely packed fibers that are arranged in an oval shape. M·A·C professional brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials. They feature wood handles and nickel-plated brass ferrules.
length:17 cm
AMW says ---
Pros
can be used for both powder and cream eyeshadow
blends all hard edges like a breeze
multi-purpose, can be used alone to do a simple smokey eyed look
grabs pigments well
can be used both wet and dry
bristles has a nice firmness but it's not harsh on lids
perfect size for small lid spaces
Cons
for the OC people out there? White bristles, gets dirty easily
the MAC 217 name embossed goes invisible after several washes (i put a clear polish a bit too late)
Overall
If there's only ONE MAC eyeshadow brush that you have to purchase, seriously, in my humble opinion, this is definitely THE ONE! No matter you're a beginner or a pro, this is definitely a must have for blending and it's not called a blending brush for nothing. Seriously, I have never sang praises for a single brush!
I know there's a lot of dupes out there or cheaper alternatives, I myself have used blending brushes from different brands, but the MAC 217 blends like a dream. Everytime I have a gig, I've used this brush for sure! So in the long run, though this brush is quite pricey, its worth the price as I've used it every single time!
MUST HAVE...again..MUST HAVE...oh, did I say ... MUST HAVE?
Tips
wash your brushes regularly especially if you love using vibrant eyeshadow colors as it could stain the bristles
use a brush guard to protect the bristles right after washing
perfect to apply cream eyeshadow or even concealer, it feathers out cream products naturally
Will I repurchase?
I hope not as I plan to take care of this til my hair is the same color as this bristle! lol But if I wouldn't think twice repurchasing this brush if needed.
Where to purchase and how much?
At local MAC Store for Php1,100 (approx $23.40)
A close up on my bristles after a year of constant use But take note: I do take care of my brushes like my bestfriend :D
Do you own a MAC 217? Do you plan to purchase? Am I making you want one? Sorry..... You asked for this review! lol
My hair has always been dry and lifeless. Growing up, I've always been envious of my sister's long shiny hair and I told myself I'll do everything to have half of the shine she got :) Yes, I'm not born with it but I got to do something about it right?
When L'oreal Professional came out with a Texture Expert Line that has Perfect Shimmer on it's packaging, I told myself it's a must try for me!
**photo from L'oreal
Perfect Shimmer says ---
AMW says ---
Pros
smells WONDERFUL! I swear, I feel like I'm addicted to this smell!
packaging is sleek and very pretty
gives my hair the subtle shine
hair feels light and weightless
no greasy feel
even on humid weather where I live: doesn't oil up
tames flyaways
spray type hair product, I love it when I don't have to wash my hands after using a hair product!
the product "liven up" the color of my hair, I haven't colored my hair for almost 4 months now!
Cons
flammable packaging
seriously, 100ml worth of this product is not enough for me! I wish they offer a bigger size for the same price (wishful thinking)
Overall At first glance, I thought the product didn't do anything for my hair, but after several usage, I finally see a nice shine on my hair especially on photos! I started spraying just a tiny amount as I am scared it'll oil up or grease on me after a whole day, but after some trial and errors, I've finally realized this product is really great to give out a nice hint of shine and it makes my hair feels soft and seriously without the "product buildup" feel.
For people who has frizzy hair, do not expect this to tame down the frizzes as this product doesn't work as an anti-frizz, this product purely gives out the "effect" of healthy hair due to the brilliance and shine.
I think this product is luxurious to have. This is not a necessity for our everyday living but if you have the extra cash, this is a nice product to have. But if you are currently using a product that gives out multiple benefits plus shine, I think that would be enough!
Tips
when hair is dry, spray this onto your hair around 10-12inches away
count how many times you have to spray to get the "shine" you want
shake the product first before using
after spray, I prefer to leave the product for a couple of seconds then I use a paddle brush and gently brush my hair
as much as possible, try to wash off your hair with clarifying shampoo every now and then to avoid product build up that could weigh your hair down
Will I repurchase? Yes. Because I've always wanted the shine! But will my hair survive without this? --- Yes
Where to purchase and how much?
At leading local salons for Php395.00 (approx $8.20) for 100ml
Here's a photo of my hair with L'oreal TEC Perfect Shimmer
Here are photos of models using the same product Lucky them they have GORGEOUS hair!!! **photo from L'oreal
Are you born with naturally shiny hair?
If you say YES, I hate you! lol
If you say NO, welcome to the club! :P
It really does take a lot of effort and work to create nice looking hair for some of us (points at myself), but we always have to keep in mind that we have to be smart with our purchases and we don't need to put a lot of hair products on our hair. Simplicity is always the key. Let's all learn to work with the hair we got and not fight with it :D 'Nuff said, the Professor is signing off!.... lol
