AMW Reviews: GlamBox Starter Kit

Early this year, I attended the GlamBox event and won my first raffle prize if the year!   Thanks GlamBox for this!  It was the best New Year's Gift ever!  Though it has been months, I only had the chance to review this product because I have to admit, I stopped using this product for the whole summer as I was too lazy to put on anything on my face except sunblock and mineral powder.  I know a lot of you have been waiting for this review!  Sorry it took such a long time as I wanted to be true and as precise as possible on my review on this!  This doesn't come cheap and money does not grow on trees! (Where did that come from? lol)

GlamBox Starter Kit says ---

Airbrush Makeup is the next generation of makeup. It gives you a light natural looking coverage that’s long lasting, water-resistant (tear proof) and smudge proof. It stays on all day, so no touch ups required. The feel is so light. It does not cake. It’s everything you want in a makeup line and more.

Airbrush is not just for makeup pros anymore. It’s no longer expensive, intimidating or hard to find. With GlamBox, you can easily achieve professional looking and flawless airbrush looks everyday at the comfort of your home.

Includes:
One - 30ml Foundation (of your choice)
One - 20ml Cheek Color (of your choice)
One - 30ml Cleaner and Thinner
Compressor
Airbrush Gun (w/ accessories)
Gun holder
Adaptor
Air hose
DVD
PLUS ++ (the new) carrying case!


AMW says ---

Pros

• lightweight and portable as compared to traditional airbrush system

• no need to figure out PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) which means it's a measurement of the pressure put out in an airbrush system.  Quite confusing right?  GlamBox has easier settings of Low, Medium and High (read tips on which settings to use on which areas)
• Foundation: feels very light on skin, applies quite sheer and it's build-able
• Foundation effect never looks cakey or fake
• the effect of the airbrush look is so natural it won't create white cast on photos 
• no streaks from makeup sponge or brushes
• after several usages and getting the hang of this, it takes half the time to apply foundation! 
• applying foundation on body is very easy as compared to makeup brushes or sponge
• power supply passed QC (quality control)

• cute bag that comes with this system (note: color of the bag may change depending on availability)

Cons

• quite messy to use for starters, need to clean the airbrush system after every use
• a bit tricky to use for first time users
• a bit pricey for people on the budget
• Foundation: a bit sheer and not enough for problematic skin (please read tips on how to achieve flawless skin)
• coverage may take forever especially if you're not used to how many times you have to go through your face

Overall

I prefer powder application every morning as I only have 5 minutes to do my face before I leave for work.  Knowing the OC-ness in me, I know I would probably take more time cleaning this airbrush than the airbrush application itself.  In this case, I use this system only on special events or if I know there are a lot of photographs to be taken!  At first, I felt the coverage is too sheer and it can look a bit oily on hot and humid days.  With the right foundation base, the right concealing prior to airbrush application and the right techniques and hand movements, I am getting the hang of this. 

Do you seriously need this?  If you're a makeup addict and a makeup artist, this is a good investment for backups and practice.  But if you're currently happy with the traditional makeup you use, you'll get along fine without this. 

Tips

• pre-set button.  Low setting for hair, eyebrows and eyes.  Medium setting for face and neck and High setting for the rest of the body.
• to create a flawless look, apply your preferred concealer on problem areas like under eye circles, breakouts etc.. prior to airbrush application.
• for first time users: test the airbrush on your skin minus the foundation first and gently go through your skin to gauge how you handle the gun and how much pressure is needed. 
• mentally note down how many drops are needed for your whole face to save products.  I prefer 6-8 drops for foundation, 4 drops for blush and to clean the gun, I use approximately 2-3 drops.
• use a makeup primer prior to airbrush makeup application to protect your skin and to prevent makeup from sliding off in the middle of the day.
• after first layer foundation application, let dry before you go and continue with the second layer.
• if you use this for clients, ask your clients to hold their breath for a couple of seconds when you are spraying this near the nose area.  Try not to do this too long as your client may turn violet! *laughs*
• clean the cup with a cleaner or thinner after every usage.  To prevent product buildup, I use a cotton bud to gently wipe the inner corner of the cup. 

• do not leave the compressor turned on for too long, it will heat up as the compressor is not as heavy duty as compare to other airbrush system.

Application technique 

1. Since I'm taking my own photos, I used my left hand in holding my airbrush gun, but you get the drift on the right way to hold the airbrush gun.  Begin by pressing down the airbrush trigger first for air to be pressed out.  As a test, gently feel the air on your face before your start the real airbrush application.

2. After getting used to the sensation on your skin, pull the trigger back slowly to gently release the product.

 3. Maintain at least 3 to six inches away from the skin, with a circular motion, start at the jaw line going upward.  Spray less on the areas that does not need much coverage by not lingering the airbrush gun too long on one area.

Will I repurchase?

Not this brand.  I will definitely purchase a more professional airbrush system for clients.  But for personal use, I recommend this!

Where to purchase and how much?

At GlamBox Multiply Site for Php8,500 (approx $185.00) for Starter kit.  You can add them up on Facebook to know their schedules for demo.

Airbrush face minus without concealing.  If I want to lessen the under eye circles, I may conceal my "bags" first prior to airbrush foundation application.

*whew* this is quite a long post!
Feel free to comment if you have any other queries. 
I believe a lot of you have tried airbrush makeup via airbrush system or the stippling brush or the beauty blender bounce method!
Let me know if you prefer traditional makeup or the airbrush finish look!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Nail Art Tutorial: "Hawaiian Grimace" Nails

Good morning everyone!  It's Humpy Wednesday and I need all the boost of positivity today as everyone's on "no work" day and I have work today!  It's the inauguration of our new president and I do apologize that I forgot to paint my nails Yellow (the color of our new president).  But to make it up, I will show you my inspiration for this week!  I know, the title is the funniest ever, but what can I do?  Grimace is my favorite McDonalds character ever!  I remember seeing this cute li'l Grimaceat McDonald's in Macau and I wasn't able to purchase this because of long lines!  I  took a shot of this instead.  Adding a touch of Nikki = craziness, I put a cute flower on Grimace's cute face just like how I did on my banner photo! 

And here's my nails inspired by Grimace

Step 1:

Prior to polish application, apply a base coat to protect your nails.  Apply 2 coats of ELF polish in Royal Purple (thanks Toma) and let dry.

Step 2:

Apply a clear coat on top of the polish color, while dry...

Step 3:

Create flowers by dropping 5 dots of white Prettynails' 2 Way Nail Art Pen.  Adding tiny dots for design.  Just like photo below

Step 4:

Use needle to create a petal 

Step 5:

Since I wanted two-toned florals.  I dropped a pink dot on top of the white dots using Pink Prettynails 2 Way Nail Art Pen.

Step 6:

Similar to step 4, use a needle to create a more believable flower petal!  Make sure to do this while the dots are still wet!

Step 7:

You can use rhinestones as flower bud, but I prefer using my Prettynails 2 Way Nail Art Pen in silver glitter and drop it in the middle of 5 petals.  I tried to steer away from rhinestones this time!

Step 8:

Protect your nail art with your favorite top coat.  And voila!  Instant Hawaiian Grimace Nails! 

Have a wonderful day everyone!
I hope this nail art inspires you to prettify your nails!  Even once!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Vaseline Road Trip of a Lifetime TV Commercials and Print Ad

Dear Philippine Readers:

If you're 18 years old, Female, resident of the Philippines and has been a reader of my blog. You've probably read so much about my wonderful Road Trip experience last month for 6 days with fellow bloggers Ada and Hannah. Words cannot express my gratitude to the people from Vaseline and people from agency for choosing me to be part of the Vaseline Bloggers. It was the best decision I've made to take a leave from work and accept this challenge! Thanks to my dear friends who gave me the push (guys and girls, you know who you are!)

The experience has been the best so far and words can't express my amazement and awe in each places I've been to. Laoag, Pagudpod, Vigan and Baguio --- all 4 places has its own uniqueness and taste and each location left a wonderful memory inside my heart! Here are 3 TV commercials shown on cable channels to inspire the others to join this Road Trip of a Lifetime I experienced!

Agency: Media Contacts, Inc.
Director: Gerald Santos (Orange House)

TVC #1 Laoag

TVC #2 Pagudpod

TVC #3 Vigan

Print ad shown on Yes! Magazine July 2010 issue. Photos by: Mr. Jeck Simbulan for Vaseline.
(click photo to enlarge and read article)

Visit www.vaselineroadtrip.com and choose your own unique photo to show how excited you are to join this road trip. You have until tomorrow to send in those entries! Who knows? You may be the lucky winner for this Once In A Lifetime Road Trip!

Have I told you "It's Worth It?"
I guess I did, gazillion times!
And it's worth saying it again and again!

Goodluck!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW is Excited for: Forever 21 Philippines

I dress comfortably.  I want to look good at all times but I'm not a fan of spending much on clothing!  I go for quantity PLUS quality rather than just quality!  My aunt from the US visited us a couple of years ago and gave me a couple of gorgeous tops.  I thanked her profusely and told her not to spend so much on gifts, she went: "Oh no, I did not spend a lot!  I bought these at Forever 21!" 

After years of online shopping, I've finally figured out what the girls are going crazy about. and what Forever 21 is really about!  Check out their site, who wouldn't?  Forever 21 has quickly become the source of fashion for people on the budget and those who are not even budget conscious!  Their latest styles from casual to trendy, chic to glamorous from head to toe are always updated and always in style!  Whoever you are and whatever you do, you'll definitely find pieces that suit your taste and style!

The first Forever 21 store in the Philippines is 2,700 square meters of space with 34 fitting rooms, 60 sales assistants and 11 cashiers.  With one brow raised, I am a bit hesitant as no clothing line could go that far in opening up such a huge store with a massive number of staffs!  That's why I am so glad when Jane Kingsu-Cheng, Marketing Manager of Forever 21 (also a schoolmate of mind) invited me for a preview of the store.  It was right after a whole day of Dollface Personal Makeup Workshop.  Though my legs are tired, I couldn't pass up the chance!  I have to see it to believe.  

I walked from area to area, as I ooooh-ed and aaahh-ed over accessories, shoes, bags and of course, dresses, tops and bottoms!  Most of them are wrapped in a plastic and I can't help but want to try as many outfit as I can!  I can totally foresee stampede!  *knocks on wood*  Please girls, do not go insane on its opening day! 

As I walked from area to area, mentally took down notes on key pieces to purchase, I was ready to leave when Jane asked me to checkout the area for someone like me, a working girl! Love 21 is a classic, contemporary line for the working woman.  That definitely points to me!  I took a closer look inside this area and found a "pot of gold, silver and bronze"! 

 

Smart casual clothing with prices that fit the budget.  Most of the tops and bottoms do not exceed Php1,000 and dresses ranges from Php1,200 to Php2,000!  Not bad considering the designs are unique and the quality's good!  I checked!  Take a closer look at the details of some tops!  Very intricate and sewn really well, passed AMW's quality check!

 

 I love dresses that looks good anytime of the day!  I chose a couple that I would definitely go back and purchase! 

Comfortable Office Girl

Sexy after-office party dresses
So Nikki!

Tops that screams from "I am comfortable and casual today" 

to "I am so comfortable to show some skin"!

And I couldn't pass up the chance to mix and match some key pieces!!!  Oh, more outfits from Mondays to Fridays, or shall I add up Saturdays and Sundays!  That led me singing Black Eyed Peas' "I've got a feeling ooohhh.."

Smart Casual for office also for night out with the girls

Casual Sunday doing simple chores

or spending time with the boyfriend/hubby

Don't forget the gorgeous gray bag that fits the essentials! 

I love medium-sized bags with a lot of pockets!

More space to put my lip balm, keys, mobile phone, etc..!

And shall I add key pieces to vamp up the "casual" look?

Join Forever 21 on Facebook and Twitter (Forever21ph) to be in the know of the latest fashion and store information!  Ladies and gentlemen, be ready for the store's opening on July 2, 2010 at SM Megamall!  Please wear comfortable clothing and no pushing okay? 

Huge hugs to all of you from this gorgeous Panda t-shirt that the hubby found for me!  He's purchasing this for me! 

Aaaahh, So excited to shop!  And it's payday!!!
Keep smilin'
Stay Happy!

AMW Reviews: Loew Cornell 3/8 Maxine's Mop

Have you heard about Loew Cornell brushes?   If you're a makeup addict and loves to watch YouTube videos about beauty and loves to read blogs both locally and internationally, you definitely heard about this wonderful art brushes that has been causing a stir because of it's good quality brushes comparable to the famous MAC brushes!  Would you believe the brush whore in me just got this recently?  It's better late than never I tell you!

Loew Cornell 3/8 Maxine's Mop

Loew Cornell 3/8 Maxine's Mop says ---

Flat oval white hair mops with short purple handles. All natural hair brushes in timeless, popular shapes with incredibly soft bristles. Affordably priced. These brushes hold lots of color for artists and can also be easily used as substitutes for MAC makeup brushes! These brushes apply makeup evenly and are great for blending harsh lines.

AMW says ---
Pros

• non-scratchy, very soft bristles
• no flyaways
• no bleeding when washed even for the first time
• no shedding
• very inexpensive
• perfect dupe for MAC's 239, actually rephrase, this is the best dupe of MAC 239 I have ever seen and touched
• the bristles are not super soft and just right to pick up colors

• very dense
• can pick up eyeshadows really well
• available locally! 

Cons

• the only downside is the handle's color, purple which other professionals wouldn't want (in my case, with the price? I don't mind at all!)
• not all Loew Cornell brushes are sold locally

Overall 

With my watchful 5 senses, I've tested this and compared this to MAC 239 that I own for more than a year.  This is the exact dupe of MACs 239.  The bristles of Loew Cornell is just a tiny bit longer compared to MACs but it doesn't make a difference on application.  The performance of Loew Cornell brush is great!  No need to even compare this to MAC as it works!  It really does work in packing colors and it's a breeze in application!  No scratchy feel and best of all!  The inexpensive price!!!

 
Tips

• wash this before you start using
• put on sticker or paint it with a nail polish color so you'll know its yours
• share shipping with a friend

Will I repurchase?
Yes!!!

Where to purchase and how much?

Locally at Digital Traincase website for only Php300.00 (approx $6.50) + Shipping

For international readers, either ebay or ask your friends in the USA to help you purchase at Michaels Craft store.

A closer look at Loew Cornell 3/8 Maxine's Mop

Well printed brand and brush size on handle

Made of Natural hair

Sri Lanka (wow!)

A closer look on the bristles

Flat dome-shaped bristles

white in color

Side view, no flyaways

even after washing

Now, everyone would definitely want to see this brush compared to the famous MAC239.  Thank goodness I own MAC 239 to be able to show you how both looks like side by side.

Length

Loew Cornell brush is about half an inch longer and the handle is slimmer.  MAC's handle is in black while the LC one is in dark purple which obviously looks like a painter's brush!

Ferrule 

MACs ferrule is half an inch longer.  I've used both many times and it doesn't make a huge difference in application.  Both bristles are glued pretty well on the ferrules and I tried to pull the ferrule away from the wood but failed.  Both are glued pretty well!  (thank goodness)

Bristles

As seen on photo below, the shape of the bristles are almost the same!  The bristles of Loew Cornell is jut a tiny bit longer but the texture, the softness are exactly the same base on AMW touch test!

Side View of the bristles, MAC 239 bristles are a bit thicker, again, it doesn't make a huge difference during application!

A lot of readers would email me and ask for inexpensive brushes that does the job!  Well, I'm glad to share to you my good find!  Thanks to Sol for bringing in the Loew Cornell brush as I've been wanting to purchase this ever since I've seen them on reviews! 


Have a wonderful start of the week!  
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!