AMW Reviews: Close Up White Now

I had the chance to chat over Skype with MICHELLE PHAN!  Yup, THE Michelle Phan who's a Makeup Guru on Youtube!  Why?  Because I was told that she discovered something that can prettify people and it's not even makeup!

 **photo from google image

Everyone who knows me personally knew how much I love to smile!  I don't say "Keep Smilin', Stay Happy" for nothing!  I do have tiny set of teeth!  So tiny that my dentist thought it was my original kid's teeth!  This tiny set of teeth came a long way, I've smiled to a lot of people and I did manage to make some people feel good and comfortable!  So taking care of my only set of teeth is very important for me that I make sure to use the right kind of toothpaste!  

I have used quite a number, most major toothpaste brands out there, I've given them a try!  When Carla contacted a couple of us Beauty Bloggers to talk about this new brand of toothpaste Michelle Phan discovered, I gave it a yes to talk to her and ask about it!

Michelle was sent with the new Close Up White Now toothpaste from Unilever Philippines.  She never heard about the brand as they don't have it in the States.  She thought it would just be "another whitening toothpaste"!  But after first usage, she got impressed!

Aside from the toothpaste, I got into details about her personal life as well (It was a childhood dream of mine to become a reporter!)  *laughs*  I learned that she wants to visit Boracay as her boyfriend loves the place!  I also learned that she's super busy since her Lancome opportunity that she does not have the time to really relax!  She came down with a Chicken Pox by the way when we had a chat with her that's why we weren't able to do a video call!  It was all good though, she's nice and down to earth!

Ok, back to the toothpaste! How do I find the toothpaste that Michelle Phan has been raving about?

Close Up White Now says ---

Close up White Now is the newest variant of of Close Up.  It has Blue Covarine foam that instantly whitens teeth, after just one brush, giving you that extra confidence boost to get closer.

White Now's Blue Covarine Foam creates an instant visual effect that you will see after just one brush, making your teeth look whiter and brighter and it is proven to be 100% safe.

The whitening effect lasts up to 3 hours on top of the instant whitening effect, White Now also has a progressive action that whitens teeth over time, after continuous use.

Close Up White Now also has liquid mouthwash formula inside, with fluoride for strong teeth and refreshing flavor to give you fresh breath for hours.

Ingredients: Sorbitol, Water, Hydrated Silica, PEG-32, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Flavor, Cellulose Gum, Sodium Fluoride, Sodium Saccharin, PVM/MA Copolymer, Trisodium Phosphate, Glycerin, Lecithin, DMDM Hydantoin, Mica, CI74160, CI77891.  Contains Sodium Flouride.

Size: 100g tube

 

AMW says ---

Pros

• The gel-like texture with blue foam is quite unique

• Has a slight minty fresh feel after brushing.
• Teeth has a very clean feel
• Teeth looks a tiny bit whiter after 3 days of usage (illusion of whiter teeth)  (morning and night).
• Has fluoride which also strengthens and protects the teeth.
• Price is affordable for a whitening toothpaste.

Cons

• For those who want the really strong minty taste, this toothpaste isn't the one!
• I have a feeling this whitening effect is not permanent though, will report back
• Thanks to reader Anna for this, it does stain my toothbrush!

Overall

The Close Up White Now toothpaste is actually considered a makeup for your set of teeth!  I can actually see it's whitening effect!  Your teeth of course is not magically whitened in a short span of time, from constant research, I've learned that Close Up White Now's blue foam formulation forms a blue veil on the enamel, thus reducing the appearance of yellowness of the teeth and creating an optical effect of whiter set of teeth!  Indeed acts like a true makeup!  

On the other hand, it's prolong usage gives a positive result of a true whiter teeth!  Not the "I-have-wear-shades-because-your-teeth-are-too-bright" but it's a nice "clean" look that obviously makes a difference after constant usage.

Tips

• For children, use with supervision of an adult!  Use only a pea size amount.
• Do not swallow toothpaste, always rinse and spit out after use.
• If you have weak or sensitive gum, alternate the usage of this toothpaste with another variant for sensitive gum and teeth!
• Never be in a hurry when brushing your teeth.  Brush all areas of your teeth including the gum and tongue.
• Brush with light pressure, do not hurt your gum and teeth by brushing too hard.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?

Close Up suggests this toothpaste to be targeted on Female market with age range of 20-30.  In my opinion this works for both male and female who likes to have whiter teeth even from the 20s up to their senior!

Where to purchase and how much?
Php65.00 (approx $1.50) for 100g available at Supermarkets, Department Stores and Drugstores locally (Philippines).

Well, my teeth aren't that yellow to start with, 

but it obviously helps to flash a brighter smile!

(AMW after 1 week of Close Up usage)

(Makeup tutorial HERE)

Have you seen this toothpaste around?
I'm actually on Pepsodent for a while and it's nice to use this for a change!
After this review, I may alternate my Pepsodent and this Close Up White Now!

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: Sunsilk's Expert Makeover Promo, Forever 21 Sale and Binky Burrow!

Dear Philippine Readers:

Another AMW Bulletin!  Wow, the month of October isn't over yet but so many happenings around the corner!  Let me share to you what I think may interest you!

Anyone can get the chance to meet the Shape & Lengths Expert Teddy Charles, the Smooth Hair Expert Yuko Yamashita, or the Hair Fall Expert Dr. Francesca Fusco in the Sunsilk's Expert Makeover Promo.  

All women between 18-25 years old are invited to tell the world why they deserve to get a makeover from the hair experts' salons in New York, Tokyo, or Paris.  Aside from these, there are also special categories being awarded every week.  iPod Shuffles, Canon IXUS Cameras and iPod Touches.

How to join?  Checkout the Hair Experts Facebook page for contest rules.

Forever 21 will be joining the Megamall Pre-Holiday Sales this holiday weekend of October 29 - November 1, 2010!  

10% off on regular items, with your SM Advantage, SM Prestige and BDO Rewards Cards.

0% interest for 6 months installments. (this promo will last until the end of the year)

And before I end this post, I chanced upon a cute multiply site selling cute stuffs!

Binky Burrow Holiday Collection 2010

Binky Burrow Button Pins and Bookmarks

*sigh* So many things to check out, so little time!
Where are the "multiplying" machine to multiply myself when I needed it? :)

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
Stay informed!

AMW Reviews: Montagne Jeunesse Cherry Tonic Spa Fabric Facial

I am on a facial mask mojo nowadays don't you think?  The funny part, it isn't because of the Land of Masks Trip (Korea), I was into face masks even before my Korea trip!  I have a lot of masks to try since I've been sent a couple for review plus the freebies and purchases I've done in Korea!  I can review masks for a month!  *laughs*  I won't do that though, that will bore your brains out and you'll probably pull my face out!  *laughs*

Masks aren't new to me as I've tried them quite a number of times, though not frequently, I remember those days I put them inside the fridge and share this "cold" facial moment with my mom and sis! 

I've tried the mud version but I've always been leaning onto the fabric facial masks because its non-messy and I just want to doze to sleep right after the facial mask session!  Washing my face would keep me energized and I don't want that prior to sleeping! 

When I was sent a couple of masks from Montagne Jeunesse for review, I took the Cherry Tonic Spa Fabric Facial out from the bunch right away and gave it a test!  Though I am not into cherry flavored anything, I put my sensitive nose on hold and gave this a quick test!

Thank goodness the scent isn't overwhelming and I am quite surprised with how nice my experience was!

Montagne Jeunesse says ---

Experience our vibrant Spa Facial Tonic.  This 5 minute miracle packed with crushed extracts of Cherry and Aloe Vera is perfect for uplifting tired or lifeless skin. Embrace the fruit fusion and revive your skin!

• Gluten Free
• Nut Derivative Free
• No Added Parabens

AMW says ---

Pros

• Easy tear packaging

• Mask is not dripping wet nor dry

• Cherry print on mask is really pretty!

• Mask is thicker as compare to other masks I've tried
• Non-messy application
• Can fit to any face shape
• Leaves skin soft and smooth
• Gives a nice radiance
• BUAV approved, Vetegarian Standard and they used all natural ingredients as seen on packaging at the pack.  Illustrations at the back portion are very easy to follow!

Cons

• If you're not into anything cherry, this may irks you a bit!  But I found the scent disappears a bit after usage! 
• Have to be consistent in usage to see results!  SO again, not for the lazy bums!

Overall
Best mask to try if you're looking for the "refreshed" and "brightened" look!

Tips

• Make sure to wash your face well prior to mask application.
• It is very easy to use these fabric masks, but if you want some tip, you can start pressing the mask on the nose area first then put the rest onto your face pressing down a bit.
• Try to relax and close your eyes while waiting for the 5-10 minutes timeframe
• After removing the fabric mask, massage any excess tonic left onto your skin until it gets absorbed!
• Try to choose the best variant of mask for you and do this at least once or twice a week to see results!
• Never reuse facial masks!

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone who feels like they have dry, lifeless and dull skin!  Best for busy girls or boys (yes, even the guys out there can do this quietly in the comfort of their homes) because this works well after mere 5-10 minutes!

Where to purchase and how much?
Available at Watson's, Landmark department stores, Gaisano Metro Group, Gaisano Regional for Php77.77 (approx $1.70)

A photo of AMW seriously relaxing!  This was a ninja shot by the very good Mr. AMW!  I was joking him that it wasn't a good angle at all!  *hahaha*  Anyways, the mask fits my face perfectly though comparing to other face masks, there's a crack in the middle of the nose area.  I like the regular "cover the whole nose area" mask!  It's a minor thing though!

Had this on for good 10  minutes and I was waken up refreshed!  Embarrassing to admit but I'm in my jammies already!

Note from author: This mask treatment was done a couple of weeks prior to my Ultimate Diamond Peel treatment.

Do you also complain about dull and lifeless skin? 
I am starting to! 
Have a wonderful day!

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)

Happy 3rd Year Anniversary to us!

October 27, 2007 --- The special day Mr. and Mrs. AMW tied the knot.  I can still remember that very special moment when we laughed so hard on the "kiss the bride" part.  With all honesty, it was funny and awkward as we looked like 2 ducks quacking their heads back and forth!  How ironic as we were girlfriends and boyfriends for more than 11 years on that fateful day!  Given the chance, I won't change a single thing about my wedding day!

How's married life treating me you ask?  WONDERFUL!  Our friendship grew stronger and thanks to Keith there isn't much adjustments!  He remained the same and he surprised me even more with all his support and love!  Everyone who reads my blog knows he's with me most of the time....

Helping me out taking photos for this blog!  Helps me carry my heavy makeup and hair stuff during my gigs!  Wait for me somewhere when I have events to attend or at times, he works as an on-site photographer without any complaints!  He's also the extra "son" to my family for being such a caring son-in-law!

 He's my date, my travel partner, my confidant, my best friend...

With him, there's no dull moments because he laughs at my corniest jokes!  I can make crazy faces and do seriously demented actions and he still finds it cute!  *gosh*  At times, I wonder what he sees in me!  *LOL*

Nothing beats having a strong shoulder to cry on when I am at my weakest point..even when I try to hide my fear under a big smile, he'll tell me it's ok to cry and be weak.  He tells me I am not alone in this cruel world...

I love it when I wake up each morning and sees his face, I may used to be a grumpy girl in the morning but that grumpy girl has long been AWOL because I wake up with a huge smile seeing his face!  

The only negative thing I can say about this marriage...well..we are sleep deprived!  Time flew by so quickly as we share our daily thoughts and happenings!  Trust me when I say we both can be "non-stop talker and listener"!

 3 years flew by so quickly and I would not be surprised if I'm wishing him Happy 30th Anniversary!  I can see myself breezing through life with him...

If you ask me why I'm such a cheerful and positive person?
I have to give credits to Mr. AMW on that!  That's to him for vacuuming out all the negativity in my life and bring out the sunshine in me!

Happy 3 Years Wedding Anniversary to both of us...

Happy 14 years of US!
(Eeeekkk on this photo, but worth the memories!)

Love you Keith!
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Askmewhats Version: "Back with a Green Vengeance"

Happy Tuesday everyone!  I know I know!  I woke up on the different side of my bed because after 1 million and 1 years.... I've finally created the long lost "AMW Version".  A version of my own looks base on the current makeup I own!  I've had readers asking me about this and I'll say it for the last time, I got stuck with very important things since a very challenging trials that happened in my life last year!  That's the reason for the absence of "AMW Version", but now, it's back!  I'm not promising this to be a weekly thing, but it's good to finally do this again!  It was fun!

Back with Green Vengeance, I used green eyeshadows because I wanted to be back with an eyeshadow color that complements my natural eye color!  Most Filipinas can get away with a nice moss green shade! 

I hope my diagram is still as nice as before!  I hope even better!

Step 1:

Primed my lids, extending to the rest of the products to the eyebrows and lower lash line with my newly purchased Etude House Proof 10 Eye Primer.  Once dry, drawn my brows using Paul & Joe Eyebrow Pencil no. 4.  Applied The Body Shop Kajal Liner in Evergreen on the outer thirds of the lids blending with my ring finger.

Applied TBS Eye Colour no. 43 onto the lids going a bit beyond using my MAC's 217 brush or any blending brush.

Step 2:

Using a larger blending brush, blur out lines using Maybelline EyeStudio Light Peach eyeshadow from the Gold Nuggets Palette.

Step 3:

Using the same MAC's 217 brush, apply a deeper shade to "deepen" the crease area.  I applied MAC Heatherette's Cloudburst e/s on outer v for that "larger" eye look!  Make sure to blend in harsh lines.

Step 4:

Using the sponge applicator from the Maybelline's Gold Nuggets Palette, the white eyeshadow to highlight the browbone area and do not forget the inner corner of the eyes for that "bright" and "awake" look.

Step 5:

Using any gel liner/liquid liner of your choice, in my case, I am using Makeup Masala Gel Liner in Black on my upper lashline winging it a bit. 

Applying Lancome's Le Crayon Khol in Noir eyeliner on the waterline and used Urban Decay's 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencil in Yeyo near the tearduct area. 

Open up your eyes, stand back and check your refection if you are happy with the look.  You can always apply more or blend more if needed.

Curl your lashes and apply coats of mascara.  In this tutorial, I used the new GlamBox Mink Lashes (which I will be reviewing soon).

Note:  If you have long and thick lashes, you can skip the falsies!  If you need to and you're afraid to try, click THIS LINK to see my tutorial on how to apply falsies. 

What's on the rest of my face?

For the Face:
I Nuovi Litebase Foundation in Shade 3Y

(using Beauty Blender)

Set with Ellana Foundationin French Vanilla Latte 

(using Charm Luxe Mini Kabuki)

For the Cheeks:

Contour with MSF Natural in Dark

NYX Blush in Pinky on the apples of the cheeks

For the Lips:

MAC's Viva Glam V Lipstick

Okay, this may look natural on photos but this is not my regular makeup on office days!
But it's nice to play with makeup again on my own face after a long time!  I've been too lazy!  I'd rather put makeup on other gorgeous faces than plain 'ol boring mine! :)


So how do you like "AMW Version's" Comback?

Keep smilin'
Stay Happy!