AMW Reviews: Pond's Cold Cream

The product review I will be doing today will bring back good 'ol memories to a lot of us!  From our grand mommies to mommies, aunties then to us and probably to our future daughters! 

Most of us probably have seen the glass jar on top of our mom's dresser and a chunk of us probably have opened this glass jar and took a sniff (several times).  I have to admit, I've done this so much!  Told you, I'm a curious cat! 

Funny how we easily forget the "Classic Cleanser" and veer into trendy cleansers nowadays and forget all about products that works for the longest time!  Today, I am taking you back old memory lane with a product review for a makeup cleanser that was made available way before we were born!

Pond's Perfect Care Cold Cream says ---

Rich cream cleanser with a time-tested formula cleans deep down without drying your skin, for beautiful results every time.

Gentle yet effective deep cleansing action removes hidden dirt and make-up, even stubborn waterproof mascara.  Its special blend of ingredients softens as it cleanses in one simple step so your skin feels smooth and radiantly clean and never tight or dry.

• moisturizes as it cleanses
• hypoallergenic
• won't clog pores

Special ingredients: Essential Oils, Emolients

AMW says ---

Pros

• Does not break me out
• Does not feel greasy after wiping it off with a cotton sheet or pad
• Consistency starts off a bit thick but after gentle massage, it goes off like "liquid", making it easily to blend in with makeup and dirt for easy removal.
• Works for most skin
• Works for most type of makeup, can remove some traces of mascara and liners.
• Multi-functional: I can even use this to remove my lip product, wash it off with water though.
• Skin feels soft afterwards, dryness lessened dramatically
• I personally try not to use this near my eye area but for the sake of review, I've used this to remove my eye makeup and it does not sting or burn my eyes.
• No disgusting or strong scent, just right.
• Very affordable

Cons

• Not really a con, but I do miss the glass jar!  
• A bit hassle to dip my fingers especially with long fingernails!
• May not work for people with super sensitive skin. (due to the oil and scent)

Overall

For dry skin individuals, this is NOT enough to moisturize your skin but it's enough to make you remove makeup without drying it!  For oily skin, it does not get that oily that can irritate you.  The Pond's Cold Cream feels light on skin and it's a product I call "Cleanses and Moisturizes" at the same time!

Tips

• Use a spatula (clean gelatin or yoghurt spoons) to grab on product for hygiene purposes.
• Some people prefer to cleanse face first before using this product as this serves as their moisturizer too.   I, on the other hand, prefer to use this first prior to cleansing my face because I like to use a separate moisturizer.
• Massage product gently with your fingers to soften up makeup for easy removal!
• Use a soft cotton cloth or pad, wipe gently!
• I suggest to use a wash cloth in wiping the product off rather than cotton (to save environment) and a damp one would work better!  No need to pull the skin.
• Want to use this as eye makeup remover? Dip a clean cotton bud in the jar and gently remove eye liner and mascara.  Never dip the dirty cotton tip again!
• 
  

Will I repurchase?
Yes

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone can give this a try as its inexpensive anyways.  In my opinion, this works best on normal and dry skin! 

Where to purchase and how much?
At leading groceries, drugstore and department stores for approximately Php100.00 ($4.50)

On regular working days, I don't wear a lot of makeup but it's nice to remove even the tiniest amount of makeup the right way.  Dotted areas of my face with Pond's Cold Cream as shown on photo below.  You can opt to do it with a small! :)

Gently massage your face for a good 3-5 minutes, adding more

if you applied more makeup or even on drier areas.

Wiped product off with

Nippon Esthetic Solutions Facial Cotton Cloth

I actually spritz the cotton cloth with water

Voila!  Eyebrow pencil, powder foundation,

mascara and eyeliner gently removed!
Want some? :P *eeeekk*

Have you found love from Pond's Cold Cream?
I feel ashamed for using it just now!

As the cliche go, "It's better late than never!"

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reports: I Caught the Beyoncé HEAT!

My nose is very sensitive, I can sniff the good (and the bad...lol) like a dog!  I am not surprised that I associate a lot of my memories with scent! 

I have a very good collection of fragrances!  I remember how I spent my first salary with my first Eau de Toilette --- True Love by Elizabeth Arden.  From then on, my collection grew up to this very moment and I have a special place for them in my room!  

When I got an invite from the people of Prestige to join them for a launch for Beyoncé 's first fragrance, I knew I had to make time!  And who could say "no" to the gorgeous Beyoncé ?  I may be a woman, but I do know how to appreciate "Women with Confidence"!

I expected the launch to be a small one, would you believe the surprise I got when I get to see the bird's eye view of the event?  It looks like a scene from a "hot" vampire movie!  Bright lights, black background and red flooring!  Definitely "hot and sexy"!

Beyoncé , as we all know, exudes empowerment!  She's got a style that blends sexy, chic and elegance!  Beyonce conquered not only on music, films and fashion, she has also been recognized for her measurable contributions to the global community with her humanitarian efforst.  Definitely a perfect role model!

A huge LCD screen shows the making of the television ad, the stunning Beyonce talks about her excitement for her first fragrance. 

The bubbly Andi Manzano (Andi 9 on Magic 89.9) hosted the event! 

The "Kitty Girls" sets the stage on fire by performing several hit songs from Beyoncé .  "Single Ladies", "Crazy in Love" and a lot more! 

Models roam around the area spritzing on the new HEAT by Beyoncé for us to take a sniff and enjoy the floral, fruity, woody perfume.  

The Star of the Night

"The fragrance opens with a radiant floral bouquet of magnolia, neroli and red vanilla orchid balanced with a kiss of luscious blush peach.  At its heart, almond macaroon, sweet honeysuckle nectar and creme de musk combine to create an exquisitely sensual experience.  Finally, warm and sexy notes of giant sequoia milkwood, tonka bean and amber linger to seduce the senses. "

The fragrance is presented in a very curvaceous bottle with a red gradient effect giving the impression of fire burning from within.  In my own interpretation, it's beauty, sexiness and passion from WITHIN!

At first sniff, its a bit too strong for my liking and I mentally took note that it does not even fit my personality!  I am more of the citrus and floral scent by the way!  But after several minutes, I found myself getting addicted sniffing on my wrist area!  It blends into my body chemistry quite well!  I have to add that the scent is long lasting!

The people from Prestige, Watson's and SM Mall of Asia together with Mr. Lito Atienza celebrates the launch with a toast!  Beyoncé Heat is officially available in all SM Department Stores nationwide!

Had photo op with Andi-9 and Kim after the event

Also with Maan Perez of Prestige Brands Philippines, Inc.

(Thank you Maan and Prestige for the invite!)

Beyoncé HEAT is available at SM Department Stores nationwide ---

 30ml EDT (Php2,250.00/$54.00)

 50ml EDT (Php2,850.00/$68.00)

100ml EDT (Php3,650.00/$87.00)

Since we're all talking about RED!  I was on my way home when I passed by a nice Christmas display at SM Mall of Asia!  *sings* "All I want for Christmas...is you...!" (Ooops, that's a Britney song!)  Ok, tuning in Beyoncé Christmas song..."Silent night....Holy night..."

Merry Christmas!
Oooppss..not yet!  Got carried away!

Have a wonderful Thursday!  Have you seen this fragrance anywhere near you?
Sniff Sniff? Or Sneeze Sneeze?

Keep smilin'
Stay Happy!

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