AMW Reviews: Mineral Flowers Hand Cream

Remember when I told you about my laziness in sunblock application?  Well, I've finally fixed that laziness and I am consistent with my sunblock application and thank goodness it's all in my system!

Unfortunately, I haven't covered everything yet!  There's still one "lazy factor" left in me!  And that's hand cream application!  I've always thought: "Why should I even bother if I wash my hands gazillion times in a day?"  But after years of "OC-ness" and alcohol usage!  My hands are getting drier and drier and that's not a cool thing especially if you like holding hands with your loved ones....right?  

I've always thought all hand creams are similar!  Thanks to the Mineral Flowers event I've attended 3 months ago and I learned there are so many new stuffs out there, especially from Israel!

Mineral Flowers Hand Cream says ---

Mineral Flowers Rose and Geranium was is a 100 percent natural blend of concentrated mineral water from the Dead Sea with 26 Minerals and trace elements, Dead Sea mud, a natural skin regenerator and lifter, Rose and Geranium whole flower mix species rich and vitamin C, linalol and citronellol, gently astringent, anti-microbial and skin healing properties, balancing and lifting the spirit.  Beeswax is a natural emulsifier, skin healer and organic pomegranate juice.

Website: http://www.mineralflowers.com/

AMW says ---


Pros

• smells wonder
• does not feel oily on hand
• absorbs to the skin easily
• the moisture lasts even after washing your hands
• wonderful packaging
• hand texture improved after 1 month of usage

Cons

• none

Overall

Works really good, doesn't feel the creaminess like most hand creams!  The texture is quite "watery" and absorbs to the skin easily.  Does not feel much difference on the first few weeks but after longer usage, I can literally feel the texture of my hands improved.  Even the hubby said so!

Tips

• purchase the right kind of variant for your skin condition: Camomille for sensitive skin, Rose and Geranium for normal and combination skin and Almond Blossom for dry skin
• use a good amount of this prior to going to sleep and wake up with soft hands!
• carry this along with you and apply this after you wash your hands
• squirted too much?  Apply the excess on your elbows and knees

Will I repurchase?
Yes, I'll try the Almond Blossom variant next

Where to purchase and how much?
Php430.00 (approx. $9.35) at Watson's as well as beauty by SM in Megamall, Mall of Asia, Makati, Cubao and North EDSA.

What's your favorite hand cream?
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Eureka Moment: My Favorite Eyebrow Shaver

I seldom care about eyebrow shavers!  But at times my client's eyebrows are "all over the place", I need to reshape and trim their brows which led me to a tool that I think is a must for most makeup artist -- an eyebrow shaver.  Is there the right one?  Is there even the best one?  I usually purchase them randomly based on price and design.  When I was looking around my "Eureka Favorite Store" Daiso, I randomly picked an eyebrow shaver amidst all the  eyebrow shavers in front of me.  I picked this base on its size, its color and of course, it comes with a cover!  And who have thought this goes to my "EUREKA MOMENT" list?

Most eyebrow shavers are made in China (yup, I've checked) and this one is no exception, definitely made in China, produced for Daiso Japan.Hopefully, there's the Quality Control there :D

One pack comes with 2 eyebrow shavers, the length of the blade is just right for good control on eyebrow shaving.  

The cover is easy to remove and put back on

Comes with easy grip handle, length of the handle is just right

And best of all?  It shaves neatly and it doesn't hurt the skin around the eyes!  Each shaver can last approximately up to 5 shaves and you have to throw this away and purchase a new one!  Blades do get dull and better not hurt yourself using a "dull" blade.

Priced at Php88.00 (approx $2.00) for a pack of 2
I can't tell the brand name but do remember the packaging and please leave some for me okay? 
I'll be back at Daiso to repurchase!

EUREKA MOMENT indeed!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

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!

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!

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!