AMW Reviews: Revlon PhotoReady Compact Makeup

First things first, I want to thank my readers for always stopping by for a read!  I may be very busy and tired from doing a lot of stuffs but nothing beats having someone read and appreciates my thoughts!  Thank you and *group hugs*! 

A couple of weeks ago, I was sent a new Revlon product from the PhotoReady line.  I am quite ecstatic to give this product a test because I was impressed with Revlon PhotoReady Liquid Foundation which I actually use on clients on photoshoot with heavy and harsh lighting!

I got 200 Natural Beige Shade and the packaging is exactly the same as the Revlon PhotoReady Powder and Translucent Finisher. 

 

Revlon PhotoReady Compact Makeup says ---

Revlon PhotoReady Compact Makeup is the perfect answer for those looking for PhotoReady  makeup benefits but prefer the compact makeup form.  The compact makeup also features an SPF20, and comes in 6 shades ranging from fair to deep skin tone.

Feature/Benefits/Key Ingredients:

• Cream makeup that transforms to liquid using build-in liquefying screen.
• Photochromatic pigments bend, reflect and diffuse light to help erase flaws
• Full, yet undetectable coverage
• Soft powder finish
• SPF20
• Oil Free, Fragrance Free, Paraben Free

Available in 6 Shades: Vanilla, Shell, Natural Beige, Medium Beige, Cool Beige and Rich Ginger

AMW says ---

Pros

• Medium to heavy coverage can be built.
• Can double up as concealer due to its nice coverage.
• Does not fill in fine lines for normal/oily skin individuals.
• Does not feel heavy on skin.
• Packaging sealed for freshness once purchased!  This is very important for me as I don't ant people opening up the product and putting it back on counters.

• Very convenient packaging for a cream to powder foundation.
• Packaging includes sponge (that works!) and a tiny mirror (which is better than none)

• Does not have a "glow" that most people complain on the PhotoReady Liquid Foundation.
• Brings out really nice skin on photos minus the white cast.
• No weird glow or shine
• No scent.
• Has a liquefying screen which liquifies the cream compact making it easier to pick up good amount of product.

• Texture is easy to blend on skin.
• Has SPF20 which is enough for typical day under the sun. (going to the office, working in front of the computer, etc...)
• Lasts more than half a day before retouching is needed for normal skin.

Cons

• For dry to very dry skin: Can enhance dryness of skin if skin is not prepped or moisturized properly prior to foundation application.
• For mature skin: Can enhance fine lines and wrinkles on mature skin if primer is not used to fill in lines prior to foundation application.
• Since the product came with a screen, it is only right to use the sponge for application.  Not a good news for brush users out there!
• Need to wash the sponge often, which is a con for lazy bum out there!
• A very tiny con: The packaging looks exactly like the Powder and Translucent Finisher which makes it a bit hassle to grab inside the train case especially when you're in a hurry.  (Read tip below on how to deal with this)

Overall

This product reminded me a bit of Paul & Joe Moisturizing Compact Foundation at a more affordable price. This is definitely the answer to PhotoReady Liquid foundation users who dislikes the "tiny shimmer"!  This gives out a nice coverage with a clean matte finish! 

Tips

• Always try on testers before you purchase.
• When testing a product, make sure your skin is free from any makeup.
• Leave product tested on face for a couple of minutes to see if it oxidizes or turn orange on you. 
• Check if skin irritations or allergies occur.
• Wash the sponge daily.
• Perfect to use once in the morning then retouch with your favorite powder foundation or setting powder.  Never re-apply this in the middle of the day on top of a powder as it will cake up and create patches.
• For makeup artists who own a couple of these compact, label them with stickers for easier handling.
• If you have dry skin and you still want to use a cream to powder compact rather than liquid form, make sure to moisturize your skin seriously well, let it set for a couple of minutes before you apply this product.
• If you prefer to use a foundation brush, pat on ample amount of product on the center of your face with a sponge (Nose, sides of the nose, cheeks, forehead and chin area), use a clean foundation brush to gently blend out the product for a more natural look.
• If you find the free sponge to be a bit too tiny for you to work with, purchase your own sponge and leave this sponge for out-of-the-house usage.
• Try to wipe the sides of the compact after every usage as this may get a bit messy if used frequently.
• Never share foundation sponge to different individuals!

Will I repurchase?
Yes, for clients!  For myself, I prefer to use the Revlon PhotoReady Liquid Foundation.

To whom do I recommend this to?

People with normal, combination and oily skin.  People who loves to use liquid foundation but felt it's too hassle to tote along a liquid/cream foundation bottle.  

Where to purchase and how much?

For Php995.00 (approx. $23.60) at Watsons, Beauty by SM, Robinsons, Landmark, PCX, Gaisano Metro, Sta. Lucia East, Unimart and other major retailers nationwide.

A closer look on Natural Beige on Compact

(sorry for the tiny dent in the middle as 

I accidentally touched it while taking photos)

After moisturizing my skin really well, applied full coverage of Revlon PhotoReady Compact Makeup in Shade Natural Beige.  These past few days, my skin is getting drier again, must be the -ber months plus the fact that I finished up most of my moisturizers!  *hahaha*  What's left on my skincare stash are moisturizers good for normal skin!  Oh well, need to repurchase soon!

Overall, this is one line Revlon should be proud about and I don't mind recommending this to my friends!  Hope you find this review helpful!  I can't stress more on "testing" on the product first before purchase!  Each and every cent you spent is very important as you worked hard for it! 

Let me know if you have further questions about this product!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Note from Author: Products are sent by company for review purposes.  The writer did not and will never receive any kind or form of payment for positive reviews.  The review has been done based on personal experiences.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

Nail Art Tutorial: Gradient Nails with Hawaiian Feel

Happy Tuesday people of the world!  It's non-working holiday today but I'm obviously at work NOT feeling lazy nor sleepy!  (Power of Positivity).  After a week long rest for my nails, I've decided to go back to the basics of "romanticism" because I can't be childish for the rest of my life!  There should be times I act my age right?  Well, this week's nail art tutorial exudes a "bit" of maturity!  Let's go back to feminine nails but I've decided to combine my all-time favorite nail art designs!

Gradient nails + Floral Nails + Tiny bit of glitter = 

Gradient Nails with Hawaiian Feel

Step 1:

Apply your favorite Base Coat to protect your nails.  This seriously works as my nails aren't as yellow as before.  I used ELF's Nail Polish in White and apply 2 coats of it.  Letting it dry completely!

Step 2:

To create gradient nails, I am using an eyeshadow sponge from a palette in which I don't use much.  I applied Caronia Polish in Stellar on one side of the sponge tip applicator with a light brushing motion making sure all areas of the sponge tip are covered.

If you applied too much, you can dab it on a sheet of paper first then dab it on top of your white polish.  Gently create gradient effect by dabbing lightly on the lower portion of the nails, applying more on the top most portion.

Step 3:

On the other side of the sponge tip applicator, gently brush on Caronia Polish in Gold Rush (similar step as above).

Gently dab the Caronia Gold Rush Polish at the uppermost portion of your nails for that extra sparkle.

Step 4:

Apply a coat of top coat one fingernail at a time.  While top coat is still wet....

Drop 5 drops of Prettynails' 2 Way Nail Art Pen polish in white to create flower petals.  The reason for the wet top coat is to make the dots spread out into a bigger, more natural looking petals as shown on photo below.  This effect makes the nail art looks more "acrylic" rather than regular nail art design.

Step 5:

While dots are still wet, use the needle method to create a  2 dimensional petals.  This is also the best time to separate both dots that are getting too close for comfort!

Step 6:

As you go on the rest of the fingernails for Steps 4 and 5, go back and add up dots when top coat is dry. 

Step 7:

Using L.A. Colors Art Deco Polish in Gold, create a flower bud by dotting the middle portion of the flower.

Step 8:

Making sure all the designs are completely dry, apply top coat of your choice to prolong the life of your nail art design and to make it shinier.  I am using Elianto's Top Coat.

Sit back, enjoy as you sip on your favorite drink, be girly if you want but I still prefer to slurp on my ice cream like I mean it!!!  *slurps* :P

This may be just another regular floral nails but doesn't it feel good to have nail art designs you worked hard for?  I know it makes me happy!  

By the way, how's the contest going?  I am really happy with the response and a lot of people are starting to do good deeds!  Well on my part, I've done another random good deed too, I won't be spilling the details but I definitely made someone smile yesterday!

Done a random good thing?  Click HERE and tell me about it!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Tip for the Day: Nose Contouring

Happy Monday folks!  Lucky to the rest of the Philippine readers who don't have the Monday blues because it's holiday tomorrow! I will be at work on a holiday and *grumbles* I am NOT complaining!  *hahaha*

For the past weekends, I've been quite busy with some makeovers!  It's such a nice way to end the week prettifying people!  I always get to see the real results of the makeover after combining the before and after photos!  I like doing so because I like to improve on my craft!  One thing I've realized about the way I put makeup is how much I've changed from a couple of years ago when I was too scared to contour other people's nose!  I've always tried to steer away from nose contouring because I don't want to make a person looks unnatural!  

After constant makeup application, makeup seminars and classes I've attended, I've learned the importance of nose contouring!  It's as vital as perfecting brows, choosing the right foundation, etc..! 

This post is a good timing as a couple of readers are requesting for nose contouring tips!  Here are some of the tips I can share for the moment! 

Rhinoplasty!  *hahaha* JUST JOKING!

**photo grabbed from Google images

Weekend Food Tripping at A Veneto Pizzeria and Seattle's Best Coffee

The week felt too long!  Most of the time, it flew by pretty quickly but this week was a bit exceptional!  I felt like I'm in a "slow motion" movie!  It must be because work hasn't been that productive as compared to before!  I have to be positive and look for a brighter week ahead!

My weekend food tripping is, well, fattening!  Hahaha  It feels good to eat fattening food once in awhile, give me the energy and boost to go on!  

There are some days I really crave for pasta and pizza and this week is no exception!  A Veneto serves what I want and here's my order that goes straight to my belly!  LOL

Baked Ziti with Chicken

Php235.00 (approx $5.60)

This has got to be my most favorite pasta served at A Veneto!  Well, don't take my word for it as I did not try a lot of their pasta variants because I'm always ordering this!  I love ziti and I am in love/hate relationship with chicken! (Love to eat, hate the allergies).  Huge servings definitely perfect for sharing!  The sauce isn't too sweet nor too sour!  The mixture is just right!  Not for the cheese-phobiacs though!

Italian Sausage Parmagiana 

Php210.00 (approx. $5.00)

We were not a fan of their Hungarian Sausage Pasta so we've decided to give another type of sausage a try!  We did not taste a lot of the Italian sausage (even on photos) but the taste isn't bad!  Much better than the Hungarian sausage in my opinion!

Half All Meat Pizza and Special Pizza 14"

Php335.00 (approx $8.00)

I love it when Pizza places serves their pizzas in half!  You can order 2 types of pizza served in a single pizza pan!  We love choices, and having choices are the great mind boggling dining experience we crave for!

All Meat Pizza says it all!  ALL MEAT!  For the carnivorous out there!  Good servings of ham, pork, sausages, etc..!  Special Pizza on the other hand has pepperoni, green bell peppers, onions and ground meat! 

A Veneto Napoli Pizzeria Ristorante

Glorietta 3, Ayala Center

Makati City, Philippines

(632) 818-3090

There are other branches like SM San Lazaro, SM Mall of Asia and Trinoma!  The restaurant accepts cash and credit cards and I believe there's no service charge so feel free to tip the servers for good service!  

They are not the best tasting pizza/pasta place but you get a good deal out of its price!  The servings are huge and you will definitely leave the restaurant full or you may ask your friends to carry your excess baggage!

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

Since the hubby and I got married, we weren't staying much inside coffee places because we love hanging out at home during free time, because it's more relaxing that way!  We can raise our legs up high and no one's going to judge us!  hahaha  I hope you guys are not judging us, it's at the comfort of our own home and girl!  I promise you, I can make good tasting Iced Coffee and I have more than 5 people to concur on that!  (they're all family members though) *hahaha*

Anyways, we were doing a couple of errands and ended up with grumbling tummies!  We've passed by Seattle's Best Coffee and decided to go for a quick snack before going to my next client!

If you are as hungry as I am, here's what you can order...quick and easy and fills the tummy in no time!

Clubhouse Sandwich

Php170.00 (approx $4.00)

Smoked ham, bacon, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, 

egg and cheese topped with honey mustard dressing 

and a side order of corn chips.

It looks light but it fills the stomach quite easily!  It's a perfect share between Mr. and Mrs. AMW!

Join your lovely sandwich with...

Classic Javanilla Shake

Php155.00 (approx $3.70)

SBC’s bold and flavorful espresso mixed with a generous serving of warm milk.

 This is the best bet for you if you're not into strong flavored coffee drink!  It tastes more like ice cream drink!  Full of calories that can make you go high!!! *dances around* :P

Seriously!  I need to borrow a dog!  A dog that's not too sweet to pet but a dog that's ready to bite anytime of the day!  I need the workout!  hahaha

What's your weekend food tripping?  

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Eat like you mean it! :D

AMW Reviews: Purederm Deep Moist Hand Mask

At the moment you are reading this, I am off for a Wedding trial makeup and a private photo shoot, the day will be long and tiring but I'm sure I have to energy for it!  Prettifying other people gives me the "natural high"!

Anyways, let me get back to what I'm planning to talk about today.


I've talked about how dry my hands get way back!  I've only started looking for hand lotion when I started to hold hands!  *laughs*  That was straightforward right?  

I have to admit, no matter how great a lotion works for me, I find it very difficult to apply and re-apply as I love to wash my hands!  I love spritzing alcohol anytime of the day, because...that's how I am!  

When I receive Deep Moisture Hand Mask for review and it has "Almond" written, I am super excited to give this a try as their foot mask works!  How did this perform?  Is this a nice alternative for hand lotion?

Purederm Deep Moist Hand Mask says ---

Get dramatically improved skin tone and texture after one use! Enriched with Shea butter, Sweet Almond Oil, Camelia Japonica Oil, Opuntia Tuna Extract and other natural anti-oxidants, it penetrates deeply to protect, nourish and moisturize the skin. 

One pack consists of:

1. Plastic Gloves

2. Hand Sheet mask with moisturizing ingredients

3. Sticker (no photo taken)

AMW says ---

Pros

• Affordable
• Easy to use
• No sticky feel after usage
• INSTANTLY moisturize the hands
• Though there's no English instructions, the drawings are easy to follow. Expiration date is also visible.

• Easy tear packaging

Cons

• The plastic gloves are not friendly to the environment
• The moisture or the softness of the hands did not stay on til the next day
• Continuous usage is needed to see best results

Overall

My hands were extremely dry when I've given this product a test, it did gave me the "smooth and moisturized" feel but only for the night.  I think the hands are way harder to moisturize as compared to other parts of the body as we tend to wash our hands with soap often.  

Tips
from Purederm

• Wash hands with warm water.
• Open package and wear hand masks.
• Put on the vinyl gloves over the hand masks while fixing the vinyl gloves to the wrist with enclosed bands.
• Leave on for 20 – 30 minutes before removing gloves and masks. No additional washing is required.

from AMW

• I prefer to use my favorite hand lotion after this step for further moisturization.
• Best to do a face mask and even foot masks so you kill 2-3 birds at a time!

Will I repurchase?
 Yes, would like to see long term usage "effects" of this.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Male or Female with dry, rough hands who hates the feel of hand lotion.

Where to purchase and how much?

Php79.75 (approx. $1.30) for 1 pair at Watson's Stores locally.  For international readers, there are online sellers.

Here's how this product works!

See how moisturized my hands look after usage?
Too bad it didn't last long though, my hands probably sucked all the moisture!

Have you tried this Uber Hi-tech Hand Mask?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Note from author: Product was sent for review purposes. Author will not accept payments for POSITIVE reviews. All reviews are based on personal experiences, please purchase at your own discretion.)