Wednesday, December 2, 2009

AMW Reviews: L'oreal UV Perfect XL Block Advanced Spray Protector


Funny how I've always snubbed sunblock, now I knew the importance of it, I'm addicted!  If I haven't stress enough on my blog how important sunblock is, well I'm nagging YOU again! :P

After my first sunblock experience from The Face Shop, as I sailed through Neutrogena Sun Block, then with my first L'oreal Sunblock experience in Cream Gel form, now I'm on with a spray form!  If you don't call that addiction, you can call it paranoia! lol



L'oreal UV Perfect XL Block Advanced Spray Protector SPF40 says ---

To better protect sensitive skin against outside and inside aggressions and prevent premature skin-ageing. 
  • Protective shield against external aggressions.  Advanced UVB/UVA protection reinforced against UVA, thanks to its patented filtering system XL Block with Mexoryl SX and XL.
  • Protection of skin barrier function.  UV Perfect contains Ceramide 5 which stimulates the synthesis of lipids to reinforce functioning of skin barrier.
  • Your skin is immediately protected against harmful UV rays and premature skin-ageing: brown spots, dryness, loss of elasticity
  • Hydrated and smoothed, yoour skin stays fair and young looking.
  • Exposed body zones: Chest, arms and hands
  • Without colorants
  • non greasy/non sticky texture
  • water resistant
Ingredients (you can click to enlarge)




AMW says ---

Pros
  • spray type packaging makes it easier, no overspilling
  • water resistant
  • absorbs to the skin easily, no greasy feel
  • has SPF40!
  • no weird scent
  • no allergies
  • liquid consistency, easy to apply
  • manufacturing  date printed


Cons
  • though it is not sticky or greasy, there is still a weird feeling of "barrier" especially if you perspire
  • if you're into scent, sorry this doesn't have any!  Just a faint sunblock smell
  • because of its "pearlescence", taking photos with flash may make you look "oily" or "perspiring"
Overall
L'oreal UV Perfect XL Block is the sunblock I take along  with me if I plan to go swimming due to its water resistant properties.  I like the spray type tube especially with its watery texture as it wll easily spill without this type of packaging.  I like spraying this all over my legs and arms before I hit the sun and how it felt so light and gives out a nice and natural glow on my skin! 

Tips
  •  water resistant, did not state perspiration resistant so do reapply if you're out in the sun too long
  • apply 10-15 minutes prior to sun exposure
  • always check expiration date, chuck out expired products
  • if itchiness or allergies occur, STOP using the product immediately
  • wait for sales ! L'oreal always have sales down here, 10-20% is worth the wait!
Will I repurchase?
Yes!

Where to purchase and how much?
Available nationwide at SM Department stores and Watson's Beauty stores, PCX, The Landmark, Robinson's Department Stores, Shopwise, Rustan's Supermarket, Mercury Drugstores and Gaisana Metro Department stores for Php495.00 (approx $10.80)

A closer look on one spritz
Pearly white color, very watery in texture


Easy to spread

 

Easily absorbed

 

Haven't I stressed enough on the importance of sunblock?
Am I sucessful? *I hope I am*
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
Happy Humpy Wednesday!



Tuesday, December 1, 2009

AMW Reviews: Cream Silk Precision Repair Treatment

Last month, I've attended "Runway Ready" Hair for Philippine Fashion Week by Cream Silk.  I've asked myself if runway ready hair can be achieved by doing weekly home treatments and spending less amount of money.  Is it really possible?



Cream Silk says ---

The silky, rich cream pinpoints the damage to reconstruct and help strengthen hair internally and externallly, exactly where there's wear and tear.

It transforms damanged hair to superb softness, smoothness and shine.

Ingredients
Water, cetearyl alcohol, Dimethiconol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Amodimethicone, Parfum, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, C11-13 Isoparaffin, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Citric Acid, Cetrimonium Chloride, Quaternium-18 Bentonite, Meroxapol 311, Disodium EDTA, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Lysine Hydrochloride, Hellanthus annuus, Oleic Acid, Silk Amino Acids, Olea europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Ceramide 2, Aloe  barbadensis.

Size 270ml


AMW says ---
Pros
  • inexpensive product
  • smells WONDERFUL
  • works!  I swear it made my hair softer and tangle free
  • I don't have a lot of falling hair as before
Cons
  •  NONE
Overall
I've used Cream Silk conditioners in the past and they are always so-so for me, nothing spectacular so I never expected anything on the new Cream Silk Precision Repair Treatment.  I have my backup hair treatment just in case this one messes up!  And surprisingly!  I don't even need to touch my backup for a couple of weeks as this product works!  It seriously works and I am singing praises!  Bravo to Cream Silk for coming up with such wonderful and inexpensive hair treatment that works! 

Blow drying obviously dehydrated my hair,  and not to forget constant use of flat iron or curling iron!  For the past 4 weekends, I've used this hair treatment and massage it section per section and cling wrap it for more than 30 minutes, my hair is definitely recharged for the coming weeks! 

Tips
From Cream Silk

After using shampoo & conditioner, squeeze out excess water and massage a few scoops  onto hair.  Leave on for just 3-5 minutes, then rinse.  For best results, use with Cream Silk Protect and Revitalize Conditioner and Cream Silk Smooth Defense Leave-on.

For normal to slightly damaged hair, use at least once a week.
For severely damaged hair after coloring, straightening and perming, use consecutively for 3 days and every 7 days after.

From AMW
  • if you don't have the time, you can leave this while you shower for 3-5 minutes
  • if you have the time, do leave this product longer!  I swear, my hair after washing is just divine!
  • use a scoop instead of your fingers  to grab the product
  • do not scrimp on product usage, the longer or thicker hair you got, the more product is needed.
  • your hair and my hair are totally different!  Not sure if this product works for your hair?  Purchase their treatment sachet for cheaper amount.  Not much wastage if it doesn't work for you.


Will I repurchase?
Yes!  I did!  I bought 2 more tubs!

Where to purchase and how much?
Available in all leading supermarkets, department stores and personal care stores nationwide. 
20ml sachet - Php14.00 (approx $0.30)
270ml tub - Php210.00 (approx $4.57)

A closer look on the product
The texture felt like creamy gel
Looks like "tofu" lol

 

Have you used Cream Silk's Precision Repair Treatment?
What's your experience?
Love it ? Hate It? 

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Monday, November 30, 2009

Nail Art Tutorial: Christmas-y Nails for Beginners

Happy Monday friends! :)  Positivity is always the right attitude to start a Manic Monday like this!  A dear friend Anastacia requested for a very simple nail art that doesn't use any stickers, it has been a long time request so dear, I hope you like this! :)




Step 1:
Apply base coat prior to polish application.  Using ELF Polish in Gum pink, apply 2 coats and let dry.  You can use any matte polish as a base for this tutorial.


Step 2:
Using L.A. Colors Art Deco in White, quickly create several lines like the previous one I've done for my Fimo Nails.  


Step 3:
Using Prettynails' baby pink glitter 2 way nail art pen, create lines on top of the white lines to create an illussion of a "snow capped" pink mountain! hahaha



Step 4:
Using L.A. Colors Art Deco in Sparkly Red, do the same strokes as Steps2-3 and do not cover all the "white" portion.




Step 5:
Apply rhinestones as needed.  I want it simpler so I used one on each fingers and more on thumbnails.




Step 6:
Top your art with your favorite top coat.




Enjoy your simple nail art
It looks festive and you're ready for Christmas season!

P.S. do not forget to join "For the Win: Karmin G3 Pro in White", last day today!!! Readers worldwide are encouraged to join!  Goodluck!



Keep smilin'
Stay happy!


Sunday, November 29, 2009

Weekend Food Tripping at: H&E Restaurant

Heaven & Eggs has always been a favorite restaurant of ours, family gatherings, friends meet up, it's a perfect place to go.  It has always been known for it's "sky painted" walls, swing chairs, I love that place!

When we were strolling around Glorietta Makati, a new "vamped up" Heaven & Eggs was seen.  It's darker, edgier, and just plain opposite from the original! 




The moment you go in, it's a totally different ambiance and there's a song from the Beatles playing.  Yes, they are into "Rocker" theme.  The chairs are simple and not as cute as the previous one.  When menus are served, I've found a couple of familiar dishes but my favorite dishes are gone!  I missed the Oriental Salad with Hoisin Sauce..bring it back people!

 

Rock  You Like A Hurricane
Php349.00 (approx $7.60)

Grilled beef tenderloin wrapped in bacon
with strings of crunchy potatoes with quail eggs

 

Korean Beef Stew
Php245.00 (approx $5.33)

Seriously, why in the world would I order a Korean dish in a non Korean restaurant?
It's tempting!  And I'm glad I did, it tastes wonderful!  
The beef is soft to taste and the sauce blends in perfectly with the rice!  
It's served with shredded eggs, green bell pepper and crunchy carrots!

 

Rockstar Iced Tea
Php95.00 (approx 2.00)

Nothing spectacular, tastes like regular iced tea 
and I can find cheaper bottomless ones
(you know I can lol)

 

The food tastes great still, I don't know why they changed the look of their restaurant, whatever their reasons are, at least the food wasn't disappointing, we went out with happy stomach!

Oh yeah, prepare for an additional 10% service charge and they accept both cash and credit :)

Have a great day!
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!


Saturday, November 28, 2009

AMW Reviews: ELF Makeup Remover Cleansing Cloths


I seldom use cleansing cloths to wipe my face!  I'd rather go straight to the faucet and wash my face with a facial cleanser and remove the rest of the makeup with a makeup remover as needed!

When my dear friend Toma sent me these to try!  I knew this is going to be a good one because I have faith in her and she knew my taste! lol  Thanks, I love experiencing wonderful stuffs that doesn't burn a whole in my pocket!!



ELF Makeup Remover Cleansing Cloths says ----

Gently and easily cleans skin to remove all traces of makeup and dirt, even waterproof mascara. Great for on-the-go travel. Gentle cloths are soft and soothing for even the most sensitive skin. Infused with Aloe Vera Extract for deep hydration and moisture. 20 Pre-moistened cloths included.

Dimensions
Package: 6.5"L x 4.5"W x 1"H
Cloth: 7.25"L x 6.75"W

Ingredients



AMW says ---

Pros
  • company gives to charity, used recyclable material and no to animal testing!!!

  • the cloth doesn't easily tear

  • great packaging, has 2 protection, sticker seal and the plastic cover
  • doesn't have strong irritating smell
  • removes makeup easily, no tugging needed
  • removes 80% of waterproof eyeliners or mascara
  • leaves no weird oily residue
  • no allergies or skin irritations
  • multi purpose - can also be used to clean brushes
  • does not dry out my skin
Cons
  • one pack is not enough to last you a month if you wear makeup everyday! 
  • you have super heavy duty makeup on?  You need more than 1 wipes and you'll probably finish the whole pack in one time, you might as well wash your face :)
Overall

I am never a fan of cleansing wipes, I've always purchased cleansing wipes for my brushes!  When I got these, I wanted to give this a try and wiped it gently all over my face and eyes and I was shocked!  The wipes does remove makeup!  I like using the wipes now prior to washing my face just to make sure everything is well cleansed before I go to sleep!

Taking this along is great too for any "boo boos" I may encounter as it's oil free and doesn't ruin the rest of the makeup!

Tips

from ELF
Gently wipe face with the cloth to remove dirt and makeup. Rinse off with warm water and towel dry. Dispose of the cloth in trash receptacle (do not flush). After removing cloth, reseal and close lid.

from AMW
  • always wash your face right after using this cleansing wipes
  • one pack is never enough, if you have the chance, purchase more and stock up!
  • stop using ASAP if irritations occur

Will I repurchase?

Yes!

Where to purchase and how much?

At E.L.F. website for $3.50 (approx Php160.00) 20 cloths.
Thanks Toma for sending me this to try! :)

A Closer look to the plastic flip


 

Additional sticker to prevent the cloth from drying up

 

The cloth up close

 

I've had quite a simple makeup on right after work, 
and so far, it did remove the dirt as labeled!

 

Always remove your makeup well before you go to sleep!
That's one huge beauty secret a girl should know!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!