AMW Reviews: Maybelline Volum' Express Magnum Waterproof Mascara

Early this month, I've attended a very relaxing event from Garnier, Maybelline and Matrix  called Fab, Fresh & Fun: A Summer Picnic.  I was excited when Jim Ros, makeup artist of Maybelline used a new mascara on me!  After he finishes his work of art, I took one look at my reflection and instantly liked my lashes.  I immediately asked him which mascara he used on me, he told me it's the Volum' Express Magnum Mascara which was his personal favorite.  I have to give this a try and tell you what I think :)  Read on...

 

Maybelline Volum' Express Magnum Waterproof Mascara says ---

Maybelline Volum' Express Magnum Mascara gives your lashes 9x more volume thanks to its Collagen Formula that plumps up lashes without clumping, and patented Mega brush packed with more bristles that reach even the smallest lashes.  The bestseller that's taking the world by storm is also waterproof, smudge-proof and long-wearing. 

AMW says ---

Pros

• can hold curls for the whole day, does not weigh down the lashes
• gives a bit of length and a volume
• seriously waterproof
• lasts the whole day or until makeup removal
• inexpensive mascara that works
• the slightly curved brush makes application a breeze
• no flaking
• yellow tube is a bit "cheesy" (literally for its color) but you can easily see it amidst all the mascaras

Cons

• formula is a bit dry, the whole tube dries up easily as compared to others
• brush is a bit too big for short and sparse lashes like mine
• a bit hard to remove

Overall

Maybelline seldom fails me when it comes to performance and price!  It's a drugstore brand that I lean on most of the time.  I am not a fan of mascara but I found myself using this more often than my other mascaras.  

If you like the curl that stays, this is definitely a keeper.  Though the length and volume did not  increase dramatically, the "curl factor" that stays for the whole day is a winner in my dictionary.

Tips

• wait for discounts or sales
• curl your lashes prior to mascara application
• wiggle the lash wand from lash root to tip
• write down the date you first opened the mascara tube so you'll know when to chuck the mascara
• comb your lashes after mascara application with a spoolie to prevent clumps
• gently remove this with your favorite makeup remover prior to washing your face to prevent eye allergies.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

Where to purchase and how much?
At local Maybelline counters for Php429.00 (approx $9.33)

After curling the lashes and applied Maybelline's Volum' Express Magnum Waterproof Mascara.  2 application on each eye

You can read reviews from other beauty bloggers on this

Smile and click

Beetrice's Review
Pretty Beautiful
My Women Stuff
So Loverly
SkinDeco
Beauty Fool

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AMW Reviews: Sigma Professional Brushes Complete Kit

I've always been intrigued with different brush brands outside of "MAC".  I admit, I don't mind spending a lot on brushes, I look at it as an investment and nothing beats using a brush on a client that you are proud of!  And nothing beats touching your face with brushes that you know are made of high quality.

I've always seen Sigma brushes on YouTube and reviews from Beauty Bloggers abroad.  When Kathryn of Sigma Makeup contacted me to do a review on their brushes, its a chance I have to grab!  I was hoping it'll be their professional set as I have enough travel brushes and I wanted a backup for my Suesh 28pcs Brush Set. 

After 2-3 weeks, I finally got this on hand.  The Sigma Professional Makeup Brushes Complete Kit.  At first glance, I was impressed with the way they package their brushes, aesthetically gorgeous and obviously well thought of!

I like it that the brush roll is quite sturdy and easy to tote along.  It has a nice logo of Sigma brand and it looks professional enough.

Instead of the usual "ribbon it yourself" strap, the Sigma Professional brush roll have a magnetic button. I get addicted to the "click" sound.

Each brushes are protected with a plastic to prevent brush hairs from getting ruin during transit.  Even the handles are well protected too!  The Sigma Professional Brush Complete Kit has 12 slots for 12 professional  face and eye brushes and additional 3 pockets for your extra brushes! 

Each handle has an imprint of the brand and the brush number.  For MAC brush users out there, you'll know that the company uses the same brush number as MAC with an additional "SS" prior to the numbers.

Now let's take a closer look on each.  Be ready for a lot of photos! 

Sigma SS150 

(Powder Brush) 

Sigma SS150 (Powder Brush) says ---
Very dense with a rounded top. Ideal to apply powder products on face and body. Natural bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros

• very soft bristles, feels really nice when used on face
• perfect length and size to apply powdered products on both the face and body
• sturdy ferrule and handle
• very dense

Cons

• sheds and bleeds like crazy
• sheds even when dry, upon powder application

Sigma SS187 

(Duo Fiber Brush)

Sigma SS187 (Duo Fiber Brush) says ---

Specially designed to generate an ‘airbrushed’ finish when used to apply liquid foundation. It can also be used to apply blush, highlight shades and loose pigments. Blend of synthetic and natural bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros

• perfect to stipple liquid foundation onto face for an "airbrushed" look
• huge handle which makes it easy to hold
• almost same density as the MAC187 brush
• multi-functional: can be used for liquid foundation, cream blushes or even powder blushes, perfect tool to prevent powder look after spritzing your face with water

Cons

• sheds on first 2 washes
• when stippling: it's scratchier as compared to the MAC's

Sigma SS168

(Large Angled Contour Brush)

Sigma SS168 (Large Angled Contour Brush) says ---

The angled shape makes this brush ideal to apply blush or contour shades. Natural bristles. 

AMW says ---

Pros

• no bleeding nor shedding
• brush bristles are very soft even after several washes
• has a "stiffness" that makes it easier to contour the cheekbones
• nice brush to apply bronzer and blushes

Cons

• white brush hair which makes it easy to get dirty
• sheds a bit, around first 2 washes

Sigma SS190 

(Foundation Brush)

Sigma SS190 (Foundation Brush) says ---

Can be used to apply liquid or cream foundation. It is also recommended to apply moisturizers and conceal large areas. Synthetic bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros

• perfect stiffness for control
• multi functional: Can be used to apply any liquid/cream products like sunblock, moisturizer, liquid and cream foundation, concealer and even cream blushes
• very soft 
• no shedding and bleeding

Cons

• brush size could be a bit small to some
  

Sigma SS224 

(Tapered Blending Brush)

Sigma SS224 (Tapered Blending Brush) says ---

Rounded and tapered top. Specially designed to apply and blend color on the crease. Natural bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros

• multi-functional: aside from blending powdered eyeshadow, can be used to remove excess powder under the eye area, use this on cream concealer to apply "flawless" airbrushed concealed under eye circles
• very soft
• no bleeding
• a mix of MAC217 and MAC224, size is in between

Cons

• may be too huge to be used as blending brush for small-eyed individual
• sheds a bit

Sigma SS252 

(Large Shader Brush)

Sigma SS252 (Large Shader Brush) says ---

Flat shape is ideal for application of cream formulas and eye shadow primers. It also works great with loose eye shadows or pigments. Can be used to apply color all over the lid or precisely on the lash line. Natural bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros

• no bleeding or shedding
• very soft
• has a nice stiffness, makes it easy to control
• perfect to pat on eyeshadow on the crease area or foiling
• multi-functional: can be used on powdered, liquid or cream products

Cons

• a bit huge for small eyed individuals

Sigma SS275 

(Medium Angled Shading Brush)

Sigma SS275 (Medium Angled Shading Brush) says ---

Angled, tapered, flat top. Ideal to apply highlight shades underneath the eyebrow and on the inner corners. It can also be used for a precise application of darker shades on the crease area. Natural bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros

• no shedding or bleeding
• very soft hair that does not scratch
• perfect for crease color

Cons

• none

Sigma SS239 

(Eye Shading Brush)

Sigma SS239 (Eye Shading Brush) says ---

Soft and dense with a rounded finish. Can be used to apply pressed or loose eye shadows and pigments. Ideal to build intense color on the eyelid. Natural bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros 

• good eye brush for smaller eyes
• no bleeding or shedding
• picks up pigment really well

Cons

• none

Sigma SS194

(Concealer Brush)

Sigma SS194 (Concealer Brush) says ---

The rounded, tampered, flat shape makes this brush ideal to conceal the under eye area. It is also recommended for a precise application in small areas. Synthetic bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros

• no bleeding or shedding
• perfect dupe for Mac's 194 brush
• multi-functional: for cream shadow application, concealer application 
• very soft bristles

Cons

• brush hairs a bit too short to conceal under eye circles

Sigma SS219 

(Pencil Brush)

Sigma SS219 (Pencil Brush) says ---

Precise application of color on the crease, outer corner, and upper and lower lash line. Also ideal to smudge out pencil liner. Natural bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros

• perfect to apply outer crease color for that "intense" look
• no bleeding or shedding

Cons

• not stiff enough to work as pencil brush
• white bristles, easy to get dirty
• a bit scratchy

Sigma SS209 

(Eyeliner Brush)

Sigma SS209 (Eyeliner Brush) says ---

An extra-fine tipped synthetic fiber brush that delivers a precise, firm, even stroke with which to line the eyes.

AMW says ---

Pros

• great brush if you like thick eyeliner application
• no shedding or bleeding
• multi-funcational: Can also be used to apply lip products for a defined lips

Cons

• a bit too huge for small eyes

Sigma SS266 

(Small Angle Brush)

Sigma SS266 (Small Angle Brush) says ---

Essential for the application of gel or cream eyeliner on the upper and lower lash line. This brush is also excellent to filling out the eyebrows. Synthetic bristles.

AMW says ---

Pros

• no bleeding nor shedding
• nice "stiff" bristles perfect for gel liner application
• multi-functional: can be used for eyelining, filling of eyebrows and deepening of the crease to create a nice outer-v
• can give a perfect winged eyeliner

Cons

• None

Overall  (On Brush Set)

A lot of reviewers gave their 2 cents on why the Sigma brushes are numbered similarly with MAC's.  Some find it as a Con.  My take?  I seriously don't care if its named after MAC brushes.  For me, I actually like it because I do not need to jumble my brain cells and think of an equivalent dupe with MAC brushes.  Most of the brushes are not the exact dupe with MAC and please do not expect that when you purchase Sigma Brushes.  These brushes are made of good quality but its not and will never be the exact duplicate of MAC brushes.

These brushes have thicker handles and longer in length as compared to most professional brushes.  They are at least almost an inch taller than most brushes (if that helps to give you an idea on its size).  

These brushes are more inexpensive as compared to other brush brands and they are not bad at all!  I can be confident in taking these brushes along on makeup gigs but of course, I'll always have the extra "trusted" brushes.

Base on my experience with the Sigma Complete Kit, most of the face brushes shed and bleeds but after several washes and usage, they are much better.  For the eye brushes, they are GREAT to start with, I am really impressed with their eye brushes.

Definitely a good brush set to start with.  I suggest to purchase Brush Sets rather than the individual ones.  Saves you a couple of bucks.

Where to purchase and how much?

At Sigma Makeup website for $89.00 (approx Php4,940) + Shipping for 12brushes plus brush roll.

Do you own any Sigma brushes?
How do you like it?

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Stay happy!

Chase the Sun at the Neutrogena Run

 **photo from google

Dear Philippine Readers:
Neutrogena, the skincare brand most recommended by dermatologists, is mounting its first ever run dubbed Chase the un: The Neutrogena Run, on Sunday, May 16, 2010 in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.  Runners both men and women, can register for the 3k, 5k, 10k, or 15k races at R.O.X. Bonifacio High Street, Planet Sports Trinoma, New Balance Glorietta and Shangri-la Mall and Athlete's Foot Alabang Town Center until May 12.  Registration fees are Php400.00 for the 3k, Php550.00 for the 5k, Php600.00 for the 10k, and Php650.00 for the 15k.

Armed with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF50+ and Waterlight Lotion SPF 50+ PA+++, runners will finally get the chance to run under the summer sun with maximum sun protection.

Filipino running icon, Coach Rio, and his team have taken the Chase the Sun Run to exciting new heights.  Aside from the timer chip that ever runner will receive, participants can look forward to new and exciting race routes.

In addition to Chase the Sun singlet, runners will receive a filled-to-the-brim Johnson & Johnson lootbag and an awesome finishers' shirt made exclusively by Team Manila.  Cash prizes also await the winners of each distance from the male and female categories.  For an added treat, there will be numerous fun activities and games for the whole family sponsored by participating Johnson & Johnson brands: Carefree, Modess, Listerine, Johnson's Body Care, and of course, Neutrogena.

For more details, visit www.finishline.ph or call 703-1736

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!
Stay healthy!

A Letter To Mommy AMW :)

Dear Mom:

Have I told you lately that I love you?
You know I did....

And I mean it each and every time.

Dear mom, I am who I am because of your guidance, your care and love.  Back in school,  when I got home with bad grades, you told me its okay because you know I did my best.  That made me strive harder, not because I was forced to, it's because I want to.

When I accepted an award, you don't care whether it's a "Best Scout" or "Best Military Police and First Aider" or "Best Student", you will always be present to accept my medals.  When I was asked to join a singing contest, it scares the hell out of me but you bought me a nice dress and said I'll be okay because I have a voice that captures the hearts of many.  Mom, I know it's not true but it gave me the confidence I need!  You were a hands on mom and right when I was about to open my mouth to sing, I saw you arrive at the balcony and gave me a thumbs up sign!  You don't know how much that meant to me.

From singing contests, to my first drama guild directorial job,  to a  cheering competition, I always see a huge smile from the audience, a huge warm smile from you.  You were as excited as I was when my first column from the school paper got printed and you cut it out and kept it in an album.

I've always been a good girl, because I wanted to make you happy.  Once, I got home really late, you scolded me and I burst into tears thinking you're being a mean person because I only did it once in my entire life.  You hugged me and told me you are not angry but worried.  And from then on, we have a very open mother-daughter relationship. 

I graduated with honors because I want it to be as a gift for you, not because you forced me to.

The adventurous side of me, wanted to work out of country.  You never blinked an eye when you said "Go ahead, follow your dreams", I was only 23 then and you trusted me like I was 40.  I told you mom it would only be a year, but it took me 3 years because a year isn't enough to explore and be independent.  You never complained.  You told me to come back anytime I am ready.

Because of your love, I never doubt that I have you to back me up no matter what my decisions are.   You never doubted my decisions and talent.  You've always been vocal on how proud you are of me, Yes, I can hear you when you brag about me to neighbors!  You've been a strong woman for me and I became who I am because I look up to you and you're my hero.

Mom, when I got married, you burst into tears while I walk down the aisle, you told me it was the exact dress that I wore when you dreamt about me getting married a couple of years ago.  That's how close we are mom, you can foresee my future.

Mom, the strong woman that I know, you've gone through really tough time last year.  I nearly lost you, but when I held your hand and told you to squeeze my hand to tell me you're in pain, you did....after 3 hours of waiting....

Mom, don't thank me when I do things for you, do not apologize for taking my time, the things I do for you, is NOTHING compared to what you  have done for me for the past 30 years.  For me, it will always be Mother's Day everyday because you will always be my best friend, my best mom! 

Happy Mother's Day to you

I love you and will never leave your side!

-----------------------------------------

To all the mothers out there!  I salute you, for the unconditional love you give to your family!  

Big hugs to all moms and soon-to-be- moms out there!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Nail Art Tutorial: Simplest Nail Art Design Ever!

I am one nail art addict, I am proud of that.  Why?  No matter how tired I was from a trip, I took one look at  my almost "2 weeks old"  nails and I can't help but drag my tired body and redo my nails!  Chipped nails, nail growth showing --- not a pretty sight!

Such great timing, I also received an email from a reader requesting for a very simple nail art tutorial for beginners!  I've done one in the past using nail stickers but this reader wanted to give nail art design a head start.  And dots came into my mind.  Dots for me are the easiest nail art design I could think of!  If you have a dotting tool, its even easier but if you don't, be creative!  You can even use toothpick or even ballpens!

It's also a great timing that I picked up a nice "Turquoise" polish color from Elianto (Check out my post on Getting Intimate with Elianto).  The inspiration started there and the rest came out random!  Nail art tutorial for the week --- Funky and Playful nails!

Step 1:

Apply a base coat to protect your nails.  My favorite is The Face Shop's Base Coat.  Apply 2 coats of Elianto's Polish in Turquoise.  Let dry.

Step 2:

Using a nail art dotting tool, or any preferred tool, randomly create white dots on top of the turquoise polish base.  You can stop here and protect you nail art with a top coat.

Step 3:

If you prefer to make it more playful, make sure the white dots are dry, apply a yellow dot on top of the white dots to create dimension.  I used Korean polish called BNC polish in Yellow.

Step 4:

Add another color on top of the white dots.  I am using Caress Polish in Orange.

Step 5:

Making sure all the dots are dry, top your design with your preferred top coat.  

VOILA!  Easy, colorful, and eye catchy nails!  

Perfect for our weird weather!

Come to think of it, this nail art reminded me of my Get Laud dress I just posted yesterday!  It's not intended by the way! 

I hope I inspired you to give nail art a try!
Come on, you can do it!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!