AMW Reviews: Sigma Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki Brush (F80)

I was sent Sigma brushes from Sigma USA for reviews in the past, and I have local readers asking me on how to purchase and I felt bad advising them to purchase online because I know how frustrating it is to wait, to pay extra for shipping and sometimes, getting the chance to lose your package on its way from West to East.  

I am super excited, when my previous Dollface Personal Makeup Seminar Batch 2 student Trisha messaged me telling me she brought down Sigma to our shores!  And it's not the pre-order type!  All brushes are actually on hand and I've seen them displayed during The Events Factory Bazaar at Eastwod Libis. 

I know I have enough brushes, yes, for professional use!  But I'm still alright for personal use and when it comes to my ultimate favorite K-brushes, it's all for me babey!!!!  She brought in individual brushes and it was wonderful to see a full size version of the Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki Brush for foundation users out there!  

I've used this for weeks, even brought this along on my Korea Trip, I told Trish I won't but it's just too cute to leave behind!  Here's what I have to say to the Sigma Flat Top Synthetic K-Brush...

Sigma Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki says ---
This exclusive flat top synthetic kabuki was designed to deliver a flawless makeup application. The Sigma Makeup F80 is a buffer brush that can be used to blend powder or liquid products. The short and dense bristles make it easy to buff your liquid foundation. The long handle adds comfort to your makeup application. The synthetic fibers are ideal to be used with liquid products and can be easily cleaned.

AMW says ---
Pros

• During shipment: packed really well by the seller and the brush is well protected.

• No bleeding, no shedding during wash. (first wash til the very moent)
• Bristles are super soft!  No scratchy feel even if you swirl all over your face even under the eye area.
• No weird scent as compare to other new brushes!
• Handle length is just right for both personal and professional use.
• Multi-functional: can be used on powder, liquid or cream foundation/concealer.
• If used with liquid foundation: no need to use a lot as this does not absorb the liquid foundation due to its density! 
• Can be used on mineral and traditional makeup.
• Works for both medium to heavy coverage, because of its shorter bristles' length, heavy coverage is easy to achieve!

• Ferrule is attached to bristles really well!  Very sturdy.
• Density: the most dense flat top k-brush I've owned to date!

• Not expensive for its durability and quality!  I've owned several Sigma brushes and they are still good as new (as long as you take care of it)

Cons

• Will stain if you did not clean this properly (please check tips on how to clean this brush especially if you use cream/liquid type foundation)
• Takes a bit longer to dry up again, due to its density!

Overall

Worth the investment!  I even use this on clients to buff additional "setting powder" under the eye area!  The length of the brush is just perfect to use professionallyl!

Tips

• For that airbrush use, apply using stippling motion with a liquid foundation.
• For that super nice coverage, apply with powder or liquid foundation using buffing motion!  
• Do not forget to add additional coverage with stippling motion under the eye area, sides of the nose, corners of the mouth for that "bright/awake" look!
• Deep cleansing: swirl this brush with Olive Oil to remove liquid or even powder makeup!  Proceed with using baby shampoo + mild dish washing detergent to remove excess oil! 
• After washing, gently squeeze off excess and swirl the brush on a clean towel, leave it laying flat on the towel for air drying.  
• Never blowdry or add heat for quick drying!
• If you are a type who like to carry this along during travel, purchase a Brush Guard to protect the bristles, or better?  Purchase this cutie!!!

 

**photo from Sigma

Will I repurchase?
No need, this one is enough for me and it looks like it going to last!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes medium to heavy coverage!  Great if you want to hide those pimple marks!  Works best on Mineral Makeup Foundation!

Where to purchase and how much?
International readers can purchase at Sigma Beauty Website.

Locally at Pink Slippers Boutique for Php1,100 (approx $25.00) plus shipping.
To save up on shipping and if you want to checkout products in person, they are at Moonlit Bazaar this October 15, 16 and 17 at Rockwell.
Add them up on Facebook: PinkSlippersboutique Ph/ Pink Slippers Boutique

Just because, I want to show you the Sigma FT Synthetic K-brush against my first Flat Top K-brush love EDM Flat Top Brush !  Length comparison as shown on photo below!

The reason why Sigma FT K-brush gives a nice heavy coverage aside from its density is its brush lenth!  Shorter than EDM.. (aaaww, they look so sweet..teehee)

Well, I rest my case!  I am impressed and will remain so unless something happens to it!  Will revisit if there's any changes (whether good or bad). 

Do you even use Flat Top K-Brushes?  
I do, especially on days my skin is acting up!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Bulletin: What's Up In the Metro

Dear Philippine Readers:

Happy Friday!  Yet another AMW Bulletin to give you information on "What's Hot and Happenin'" in the Metro!  Friday --- Payday!  A lot of sales and bazaars coming up just like the Moonlit Bazaar at the Rockwell Tent over the weekend where you can see brands like Beauty & Minerals, Dollface and Sigma!  Sale of Forever 21 and a whole lot more!  

Aside from that, there's a couple more information I got over my email box that I think some of you maybe interested in partey!!!  I may not be a party animal but I'm one dancing and health freak!  If you are too....Click HERE for more information

(Please click photos to enlarge)

Giordano Philippines has released a new line of graphic shirts which I saw in store designed by us Filipinos!  The 5 graphic tees were available which was chosen from hundreds of entries sent to the Giordano Design-A-Graphic-Tee Contest.  A li'l birdie told me they are limited as only 500 pieces were produced per design!  Just to show you how cool the designs are, I've included a photo of the shirt from the Grand Prize Winner Mr. Lheo Dayumat!  Cute!  I want!

Made-to-order dresses would be cool right?  And what's even better?  They are of course homegrown talent --- Kaye Olfindo!

Kaye's ready-to-wear line, kstyled, was launched August of 2005.  She's been around!  And she does not only connect with clients from the Philippines but also from other countries!  So another thumbs up for Filipina designer!  Click HERE to go to her site.

Last but not the least, there are several makeup schools popping out around and there's going to be another new one coming in!  Make-Up Designory (MUD), is the largest make-up school in the U.S. With the emergence of MUD in our Philippine shores, students will be able to study (as I was advised) the state of the art techniques in beauty make-up artistry, hairstyling, character and special effects make-up!

Be in the know!
Do check back every now and then for more AMW bulletin!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Purederm Callus Reducer Jojoba Heel Patches

Walking is a good form of exercise!  Walking my dogs, walking within the house compound after dinner, walking with my mom while chatting with her does not only makes my leg muscles stronger, it also relaxes me!  At the same time, I was able to build good relationship with my "walking buddies".

Unfortunately, my feet has suffered so much from all the walking, I need to take care of my feet before it find its way up on my head and gives me a good kicking!  (Imagining that made me laugh! hahaha)

But man oh man!  Why is it difficult to take care of my feet?  Probably because the feet are part of the "Unsung Heroes", since it's not as exposed as our faces, it is easier to spend a lot on facial products than the latter!  Shame on us! 

I've tried using the lotion and socks method but there are days where I give myself a good excuse because I'm just too lazy to consistently do the steps!  Lotion, socks... *yawns* Too sleepy....*zzzzz*

If there are facial masks for that "quick boost" I am glad more and more products for the feet are here!  After my fun experience with Purederm Intensive Foot Mask (you can click link for the review), something for our poor heels are here and I'm oh-so-excited to give it a test as my heels are the driest part of my feet!  Embarrassing to admit, but hey!  It's true!

Purederm Callus Reducer Heel Patches say ---

The Callus Reducer Heel Patch "Jojoba" is an intensive herbal conditioning therapy product specially formulated to moisturize, soothe and protect dry, cracked and callused heels.  A nurturing blend of Jojoba Oil, Eucalyptus Oil and Tea Tree Oil penetrates deeply to soften hard and callused skin.  The Cocoa Butter forms a moisture shield to protect the heels from every day wear and tear.  The thick and rich consistency of this soothing balm will pamper and comfort the heel on contact.

Use for: Dry Skin

Content: 4 pcs per pack

AMW says ---

Pros

• Conveniently packed, can easily take along during travel

• Easy open packaging and sealed for freshness! <--- sounds like a fruit or vegetable commercial!

•  Each "sticky"side are protected with easy-to-remove stickers

• Very easy to use!
• Soothe the heels
• Moisturize the heels instantly
• Non-messy
• Heel feels soft and smooth the next day
• Pad is flexible enough for any foot or heel size
• Scent is light and quite good!

Cons

• Only 2 pairs per box, it would be great if they have more per box!
• Not for the lazy bums, for further heeling, must be consistent with usage! 

Overall

I like this!  This is the quickest method to soothe and moisturize my heel without the slippery feel of heel creams!  The effect can be seen after first usage but the moisture-feel fades off after 2-3 days!  So consistency is the key to better heels!

Tips 

• Prior to usage, make sure to wash your feet with warm water to "soften" the heels before you moisturize.
• Leave it overnight, best during sleep
• On days that you won't be doing this treatment, try to apply petroleum jelly, heel cream or regular lotion on the heels of your feet for further moisturization.
• While using this heel pad, I suggest using foot lotion as well for better protection and care.
• Be consistent with your usage, do this at least once or twice a week.
• Do not use if you have opened wound!  Have it checked with a doctor.
• If irritations occur, stop usage immediately!

Will I repurchase?

Yes!  I will repurchase more for my mom too!

To whom do I recommend this to?

This is best used for someone who has dry, "almost" cracked heels.  Not for the severe heel problems!

Where to purchase and how much?

Available on some online shops (can check on Google) approximately $3.00-5.00.  Available locally at Watson's for Php239.75 (approx $5.40) per box.

Before sticking the pad onto your heel, remove the middle sticker first, be careful as that portion contains the Jojoba Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Tea Tree Oil and other "softening" agent. 

Here's how I apply the Heel Patches

Relax and go to sleep, you can wear socks at this point

To be honest, the skin under my feet are overall dry!  They are exposed most of the time because I love to wear sandals!  This is how my feet looks after I took a shower with Purederm Callus Reducer Jojoba Heel Patches left overnight!  

You can still see a bit of dryness and crack, but hey!  I've only used the patches once...

So off I sleep again with my 2nd set of heel patches!  Will revisit this if my feet are shiny, shimmery, splendidly moisturized!  Cross your fingers for me ok?

Looks like smiley head is in love with my feet! 
Now you, on the other hand, do something for your poor feet too ok?
Toe swear? I mean, Pinkie swear?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Note from Author: Product was sent for review purposes.  All information written are based on the writer's personal experience.  Author did not and will never receive payment for positive reviews.  Please purchase at your own discretion)

AMW Bulletin: Beauty & Minerals Moonlit Bazaar, Forever 21 Sale!

Dear Philippine Readers:

Christmas season is here once again, to be honest, I've always been the "last minute" shopper!  Funny how OC I can get but when it comes to gift giving, I just want to make sure I purchase the best for my loved ones!  After months, weeks and days of planning, I always end up cramming on last minute gift giving! :)

Aren't we glad with technology?  We can easily learn about deals and discounts and bazaars online before we even get to the venue itself!  That's time saving for sure!  And here, at AMW, I will also share some news on sale or bazaars if it tickles YOUR shopping fantasy :)

Let's start with Beauty related news, a lot of you have emailed me asking me about the reviews I've done on Charm Brushes!  I've always suggest to checkout the brushes in person before you purchase!  This coming October 15, 16 and 17, it's your chance to checkout Charm Pro Brush Set (for those planning to be professional makeup artists), Charm Travel Pro Brush Set V2 (for personal use), and let's not forget, the wonderful Sophie of Beautynomics also include other fabulous items like Inti-mate Bra Converter (which I seriously LOVE), Beauty & Minerals Cosmetics, Blinc products, and a lot more!  Great idea to shop here for your "kikay" friends!

What about our fashionista guy and girl friends?  There's no reason to weep!  Shop as early as now and you can gift them Forever 21 items!  

Schedules as follows:
October 15 (Friday) - 9:30am to 11:00pm

October 16 (Saturday) - 10:00am to 11:00pm

October 17 (Sunday) - 10:00am to 10:00pm

10% off on all regular items when you present your SM Advantage Card, SM Prestige Card or BDO Rewards Card. 
50% off on selected Items.

0% interest for 6 months for participating credit cards (photo below)

Here's for your online window shopping glee!
** Take note that all the prices are already the marked down prices!

**Photos from F21

Brown and Cream Striped Top Php469.00

Black Bandage Dress Php469.00

Blue and White Striped Knitted Top Php469.00

Denim Mini Php359.00

Gray Assymetrical Top Php309.00

Gray Vest Php469.00

Linen Shorts Php469.00

Paris Tank Php259.00

Polka Dot Tank Top Php359.00

Red Shorts Php309.00

Sleeveless Braided Straps Php159.00

Spaghetti Strap Top Php259.00

Turquoise Dress Php459.00

White Skirt Php409.00

Yellow Tiered Top Php259.00

Oh my gulay! And I haven't posted even half of it!
Goodluck on the sale and let's not push each other okay?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!
Stay informed!

AMW Reviews: Shiseido White Lucent Skin Care

I was one lucky girl to have been invited for the Shiseido White Lucent Skin Care Launch last March 2010!  Yup, it was several months ago!  I am a turtle when it comes to skincare reviews! Sorry!  But better late than never and finally!  FINALLY!  I've given this a test and I'm actually done with the Cleansing Foam!  It actually took me almost a month to finally finish the Cleansing Foam!  The sample size is seriously a great idea to test on the product prior to repurchasing!  

How did I find this Skin Care line? 

Shiseido White Lucent says ---

The newly re-formulated White Lucent skincare collection illuminates skin's natural beauty for a pure radiance that glows from within.  With an innovative spot-targeting technology, dark spots and uneven skin tone are visibly diminished in as short as two weeks.

• A safe and effective alternative to medical treatemnts
• A 24-hour brightening system
• In just two weeks, skin shows increased radiance with a more even tone and texture
• Triple-action brightening system targets various types of spots while helping to prevent their formation
• Preventing discoloration while visibly diminishing existing dark spots and uneven skin tone.

Shiseido White Lucent Cleansing Foam says ---

A newly reformulated gentle cleansing foam that cleans away impurities with a fresh, creamy lather to promote a look of inner radiance, without stripping moisture.

Formulated with Micro White Powder and helps remove dead surface cells that can reduce skin clarity.

Full Size: 125ml/4.7 fl.oz

AMW says ---
Pros

• cleanses your face really well!  Seriously, the best cleanser I've tried!
• can remove face powder, blush and other makeup except eye makeup
• a tiny amount is enough to create a lather
• though it removes all traces of dirt and oil, it does not dry out my skin and make it flake!
• smells really light and good!
• can be easily removed with water.
• no skin irritations or allergies even on first usage!

Cons

• a bit pricey for a cleanser but worth every single squeeze!

Tips

• use a small amount cleanser and water to create a  generous lather.
• cleanse gently with circular motions.
• always rinse well
• for heavy makeup user, make sure to remove all traces of makeup with a makeup remover or cleansing oil before washing it with this cleansing foam.
• if skin is dry, never skip moisturizing process as this cleanser strips off oil and grime really well!

Price: Php2,800 (approx $63.00)

Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Balancing Softener Enriched says ---

An enriched brightening softener that replenishes skin moisture for a luminous look.  Newly formulated with m-Tranexamic Acid to prevent dark spots.  Super Hydro-Synergy Complex, composed of Hydro_Wrap Vitalizing DE plus Bio-Hyaluronic Acid, intensely hydrates to give skin a dewy, radiant, and even-toned look.  Erythritol, Apricot Extracts and Super Hydro-Synergy Complex normalize cell turnover to retexturize skin.

Full Size: 4.7 fl. oz

AMW says ---
Pros

• non-alcohol so no sting-y feel or scent.
• very lightweight, absorbs to the skin easily
• skin feels, and looks refreshed!  
• skin feels healthier and have this "healthy tight" feel
• skin feels really soft!
• skin looks bright and dewy in an instant after application

Cons

• again, the price is a huge factor but it lasts really long, there's still half left of the 25ml sample bottle after a month!

Tips

• saturate a cotton pad and wipe gently all over face after cleansing, before moisturizing.
• if excess product remains on skin, gently pat with your clean, bare hands for further absorption.
• on areas that have dark spots or pigmentation, add more Brightening Balancing Softener by gently pat the area with the cotton pad.
• this is also the best time to gently massage your face

Price: Php3,500 (approx $79.00)

  

Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Moisturizing Cream says ---

An ultra-rich brightening moisturizer that works on skin during its regeneration phase at night to repair skin damaged by daily UV exposure.  Refines skin's texture and helps it capture light.  New formula contains Multi-Target Vitamin C to reduce existing pigmentation.  Contains Tranexamic Acid to prevent dark spots.  Super-Hydo Synergy Complex to deeply moisturize and refine skin's texture for softer, smoother skin.  Erythritol, Apricot Extracts, and Super Hydro-Synergy Complex normalize cell turnover to retexturize skin.

Full size: 50ml/1.7 fl. oz

AMW says ---
Pros

• never feels greasy or heavy on skin
• smells wonderful!  Reminded me of Vitamin C.
• brightens and softens the skin around the face once you wake up
• 
  

Cons

• may cause irritations or spots to some super sensitive skin as this moisturizer is quite rich.
• pricey, packaging is a bit unhygienic

Tips

• if possible, use a spatula to take out product instead of dipping fingers in.
• gently massage using clean hands after cleansing and balancing, best before you go to bed.
• after the product gets absorbed to the skin, pat your warm hands gently on your face until "semi sticky" feel is gone
• massage with upward motion and do not forget to include your neck.
• wipe remaining on your hands or elbows not to waste product!
• use a separate eye cream to protect the areas around your eyes.
• try to be consistent with application to see results.

Price: Php3,850 (approx $87.50)

Overall

Though this is really a wonderful skincare line, I found myself focuses on moisturizing more than Brightening or lightening of spots.  I do not have pigmentation or freckles, I am lucky I don't have issues on discoloration so I can save my money and targets on anti-aging (for those lines) and moisturizing (for the dryness).  

Does the lightening or brightening works?  I can't tell about lightening but I can definitely see my skin brightened up!  I can even see the effect right after usage of these 3 and the effect is more visible after a month!   And the best of all?  The brightening effect is the "healthy" kind and not the "greasy/oily" look!  There's a radiance that came from within!

Will I repurchase?
If I'm starting to have skin discoloration, this skincare line is on top of my list!

To whom do I recommend this to? 

People who want to lighten up spots but again, this is no miracle product, it takes time!

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

Expensive!  Very Pricey!  I know that's on top of everyone's head!  But we have to take in consideration that there are some people who would spend big bucks for peeling sessions just to have the "bright" look they what to achieve.  I am not saying that the Shiseido White Lucent is the answer to all those discoloration and pigmentation woes, but it doesn't hurt to give this a test and if it works for you, in the long run, this is more inexpensive as a little does go a long way with these products!  

Seriously, after a month, I was only able to finish the Cleansing Foam.  I still have half of the Brightening Balancing Softener and 1/4 of the Brightening Moisturizing Cream and these are all in sample sizes!  What more if you purchased the full size version right?

Photo of bare skin after the 3 products application

I think I blabbed too much!  Sorry!  Can't help it!
I hope my review helps those who wanted to give this skin care line a test!  Please bear in mind that we all have different skin so please purchase at your own discretion :)

Have a gorgeous Humpy Wednesday!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!