Thursday, June 17, 2010

AMW Reviews: Elianto StayOn Eyeliner Pencil 01 Black

Elianto, the brand, is actually one of the most confusing brand I've known based on its origin.  It's originally founded in Malaysia, but with all the Korean writings, most people have mistaken it for a Korean brand.  And what's even more confusing?  "Elianto" is derived from the Italian word meaning "sunflower" and some of their products are actually made in Italy!

I just shrug my shoulder!  What's more important for me is to try on their products and report to you which ones I like!  Seriously, the brand did not fail to impress me!  

I've been a constant gel liner user and "reviewer" because I love the pigmentation it gives.  Most pencil liners are easy to use but I am not impressed with the color and pigmentation.  Lo' and behold!  I've finally found a pencil liner that performs...just like my trusted gel liner!  Read on and see for yourself!



Elianto StayOn Eyeliner Pencil says ---
A quick-drying, long-wearing waterproof liquid water-based eyeliner creates and enhances a deep eye line. Available in Pen and Liquid form


Available in: Black, Shimmer White and Glitter Gold
Made in: Italy

AMW says ---

Pros

  • very pigmented, one swipe is enough
  • true black that I want in a gel liner
  • glides on smoothly, does not tug my lids
  • very inexpensive
  • no need to look for an eyeliner pencil sharpener, comes in with free sharpener

  • waterproof
  • does not smudge
  • stays the whole day
  • very easy to use, perfect for first-time eyeliner users
  • can be easily removed with your favorite eye makeup remover

  • includes manufacturing date, which makes it easier for me to gauge if it's time to throw it out!

Cons
  • limited shades!  I'd love to purchase this in true brown!
  • not widely available especially for international readers
  • when applied on waterline, it fades in the middle of the day
Overall
To those readers who emailed me for the best pencil liner that does not break the bank?  This is the one!!!

Tips
  • never tug your eyelid during eyeliner application, go one stroke at a time
  • after sharpening your eyeliner, make sure to clean the sharpener with a cotton bud before putting it back
  • sharpen the eyeliner before doing the "winged" liner look
  • during application, try not to roll this liner all the way up to prevent from splitting in two

Will I repurchase?
Yes!  Will stock up on this!

Where to purchase and how much?
Locally at Elianto stores for Php199.00 (approx $4.33)

Swatch on hand, thin line swiped once and thick line swiped 2x
Left photo without flash
Right photo with flash



Waterproof test - does not smudge when wet
Photo below: Rubbed 3x while wet, minimal smudging


Rub test
Rubbed my hand so hard before the liner disappeared a bit
What I like about this liner is that it disappears instead of creating dirty smudges


Applied on one eye
Very pigmented and love the true black color
it does look like Gel Liner right?


Have you found your favorite pencil liner?
I've found the one!  And what I love most about this?  It's very inexpensive!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!


Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Tech Review: A4 G-Cube G-Laser Mouse

Being a blogger for more than 2 years, you'd probably think I'll go around coffee shops and anywhere in public to blog without any problem at all!  Well, you're wrong!  I have a hard time blogging in public without my trusty mouse and mousepad!  Seriously, I carry around my laptop, mouse and mouse pad ALL THE TIME!  You can ask my Road tripper friends Ada and Hannah about it!  There is something wrong with my fingers, probably too short or too lazy to move around the touchpad!  You do the choosing!  *laughs*

I feel naked using a laptop without a mouse, for someone who's very dependent on mouse, you know that I won't just purchase any mouse out there.  The size, the look, the quality are all an important factor for me.  I'm not just a beauty product reviewer you know!  *winks*  I am very  "OC" with everything I spend my money on!  So after almost a year, it's the best time for me to give my gorgeous looking mouse a space it deserves!

When I saw G-Cube mouse at a local electronics store, I can't take my eyes off this item and I purchased this in a heartbeat!  Was it a right decision?  Was it long lasting love and not just love at first sight?  Read on...


A4 G-Cube  G-Laser Mouse says ---
Golden Surfer Model (photo above)
When it's time to escape in your own island paradise, do it in style with the Aloha Collection.  Bring the fun and delightful look of the islands on your notebook or desktop computer.

Features:
Mini 2 handed design - for left and right hand users
Cord Management - tangle-free solution, roll up, fit in and easy go!
1000 DPI G-Laser works on 99% of all surfaces even transparent glass - safer than normal laser mouse.  The light from G-laser is proven to be harmless to the eyes.

Package includes: G-Laser mouse, travel pouch and manual

Website: http://www.gggcube.com/
Made in: USA

AMW says ---
Pros
  • fits my hand perfectly, size is not too big  nor too small
  • USB plug: plugs and play easily
  • you can choose your own design base on your personality and design preference
  • very unique
  • has x2 button which means, if you activate this, no need for double clicking!
  • design does not fade
  • can easily store the cord without any hassle or problems

  • comes in with free pouch!
  • easy to tote around due to its size
  • packaged in a really nice designed box, I hate throwing this box away

  • inexpensive
  • no weird optical light that can hurt the eye
  • does work for most surface as compared to my other optical mouse
Cons
  • limited designs and choices locally
  • not all computer stores or electronic shops sell these
Overall
Reading the G-Cube inspiration, I learned that this was started when a young lady noticed most computer accessories are dull and masculine, that's why she decided to make it fashionable to accommodate women as well!   G-Cube is designed by women for women and this is the best simple "idea" ever! It maybe superficial to men but as for me, I like purchasing and using products that make me happy!  

Way back, I wouldn't mind purchasing any mouse design as long as it's comfortable, but after seeing a wonderfully designed "mouse" with the comfort I desire, why would I settle for less?  Definitely 2 thumbs and 2 toes up from me!  This is the best mouse I've purchased to-date!   Enough said! :D

Tips
  • purchase this together with the mousepad of similar design!  You won't regret it I promise you!

  • store the mouse back in the pouch to prevent dust 
  • wipe your mouse 
  • never pull off the USB plug with force
  • test the mouse in store, it doesn't matter if it takes time, it's a huge hassle to purchase a malfunctioned mouse!
Will I repurchase?
Yes!  I'd love to purchase other design for backup!

Where to purchase and how much?
Electronics Boutique, Robinson's Place for Php540.00 (approx $11.74)


Have you found the mouse that has the comfort and design you want?
Is it even important for you that your most is gorgeous looking?
I'd love to hear from you!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!


Tuesday, June 15, 2010

AMW Reviews: Vaseline Healthy White SPF24 Triple Lightening

I am not a whitening lotion user, I love my skin color the way it is.  When Vaseline contacted me for a challenge, to use this Vaseline Healthy White SPF24 Triple Lightening Lotion on a 6-days Road Trip on the Northern Region.  (Note: Northern Region is way hotter compared to Manila), I want to tell them: "Are you guys crazy?".  With only SPF24, I thought it won't be enough and I'll probably go home too dark my family won't recognize me!  Prepare to be surprised like myself!  This is one product I've tested at the most extreme condition - Super hot and humid weather under direct sunlight (Laoag, Pagudpod and Vigan), then off to a cooler weather (Baguio).  Both weather condition isn't good to my very sensitive skin. 


Vaseline Healthy White SPF24 Triple Lightening says ---
With UVA protection, UVB protection, and vitamin B3.  It provides three layers of protection that help keep skin fair and even toned, in a light, non-sticky, daily moisturizer.  Be visibly lighter with 3x more sun protection.

AMW says ---
Pros
  • non-sticky in an instant!  Do not have to wait long for the stickiness to settle down
  • smells good
  • moisturizing enough 
  • has SPF24 for a whitening and moisturizing lotion!  I was told this is the only whitening lotion in the market with the highest SPF
  • has vitamin B3 which is good for your skin!
  • UVA and UVB protection 
  • no allergies or skin irritations  
  • does not produce white cast on photos
  • available in variable sizes
Cons
  • just like regular sunblock, have to re-apply at least every 4 hours which is not ideal for lazy people :)
Overall
I apply this lotion every after shower and re-apply every 4 hours (if I remembered).  There are a lot of times I forgot about the re-application so I was bidding goodbye to my original skin color.  

The product works so well under the hot and humid weather, it wasn't sticky at all and re-applying this after every 4 hours does not feel gross at all.  On the cooler weather, my skin usually flakes due to dryness and I haven't seen that happen as well!

On our last leg of the Road Trip in Baguio, I took a look at this shot taken by Hannah on the 6th day of our Road Trip and I was quite amazed my skin color did not change much!  See for yourself. 



Tips
  • wipe the mouth of your lotion after every usage to prevent product buildup

  • if you'll be exposed in the sun for long time, do not forget to re-apply after every 4 hours
  • purchase the smallest size to take it along with you for reapplication
  • purchase the biggest size (with pump) for easy application and its cheaper!
Will I repurchase?
Yes!

Where to purchase and how much?
Available in leading supermarkets, department stores, drugstores and personal care stores nationawide
100ml is Php99.00 (approx $2.15)
200 ml is Php174.00 (approx $3.80)
350ml is Php285.00 (approx $6.20)

A closer look on the Vaseline Healthy White SPF24
Triple Lightening Lotion's Consistency


Not too sticky or wet, texture just right



Rub a couple more seconds



Moisturized skin


Since I got back here in Manila, this is part of my daily routine! =)  The lightening of the skin part, I can't tell for now, but definitely a revisit will be seen about this product!  

Have a wonderful day!
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!



Monday, June 14, 2010

Nail Art Tutorial: "Flower Pod" Nails

How's weekend treating everyone?  I rewarded myself with sleep!  To most local readers, it's still vacation mode to most of you but to the rest of the world?  Monday may be giving you the blues so I'm sending all positivity from my way with a simple nail art tutorial for the flower power lovers out there!


Step 1:
Apply your preferred base coat to protect your nails prior to polish application.  Thanks to Toma as I got hold of ELF's newest shades Mod Mauve.  Applied 2 coats and let dry.

Step 2:
Using Prettynails' 2 way nail art pen in white, apply dots (as seen on photo below).  Try to create smaller dots as we're creating more flowers.
Step 3:
Using a thin brush.  In my case, I am using L.A. Colors Art Deco in black, connect the flowers like "branches".  Doesn't have to be perfect in thickness like real branches.

Step 4:
To complete the tiny flowers, use Prettynails' 2 way nail art pen in yellow (or any shades you want) and dot the middle portion as "flower bud"

Step 5: (optional)
To create "glitter" effect, apply a gold polish on top of your nail art.


Step 6:
Protect your nail art design with your favorite top coat.  I am using The Face Shop's Top Coat.


Hope this gives you a bit of sunshine!  Lemme see that huge smile please? :D


I also would like to give a special shout out to Toma for being naughty, for sending me another new shades from ELF!  She knew how much I love ELF polishes!  Good quality at an affordable price!  Thank you for the wonderful surprise!  If only you could see the huge smile on my face!  Will do more nail art tutorials with these gorgeous shades soon!



Keep smilin'
Stay happy!



Sunday, June 13, 2010

Weekend Food Tripping at: Pink Pepper

Weekend food tripping is fun if you dine with the people you love!  I had a nice dinner with my husband's family and we love food sharing!  The first time I've dined at Pink Pepper restaurant was at Robinson's Ermita mall and I believe the restaurant was closed down?  So when we were at SM Mall of Asia, we have to revisit! 

Caesar Salad
Traditional classic salad!  Fresh lettuce, tomatoes and cucumber served with Caesar sauce or Viniagrette!  You can actually choose to have 2!


Spicy Ribs
Marinated spare ribs in spicy sauce served with sliced potatoes and vegetables.  I love how the meat melts inside my mouth!



Whole Fried Chicken
There's nothing spectacular about this but what I love about this is the way it's fried crisp to perfection!  This comes with gravy!  You can always request for more!



Garlic Rice
Nothing beats garlic rice! 2 types of rice I eat.  Bibimbap (Korean Rice) and Garlic Rice! 


Mango Iced Tea
I love mango juice and I love iced tea.  But when these 2 are mixed together, it felt weird at first but I would say it's an "acquired taste".  I got used to it after 3 sips!


The price range of this restaurant is not too cheap nor expensive.  Just ambiance is great for gathering with friends or family members!  The total bill costs approximately Php1,500 (approx $33.00).  Not bad considering we walked out of the restaurant full!

The restaurant accepts cash and credit card payment.  10% service charge is added in the total bill!  The restaurant has friendly and helpful staffs and service is good!

Pink Pepper
SM Mall of Asia
Entertainment Mall, bay City
Pasay City
(632) 556-0397

Your turn to make your tummy happy this weekend!
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!