Readers' Corner: Inexpensive Alternative for Kiehl's Lip Balm No. 1

I was asked a lot of times on what lip treatment I've used that I would recommend.  I've always say for the very dry lips like yours truly, I'd invest on Kiehl's Lip Balm No. 1!  There's also an inexpensive alternative on using Petroleum Jelly but not everyone like the feel and taste of it.  

After trying out several brands, there's 2 in the market that's "almost similar" to the famous Kiehl's Lip Balm that people on the budget can try! 

Mentholatum Lip Gel

Net Wt. 8.0g
Php108.00 (approx $2.40)

Smoothening and improving texture of chafed, chapped lips.

 Texture is not too sticky  nor runny, just right!

The slanted applicator makes it very easy to apply on lips without messing up your fingers!  

Hydrates, moisturize lips instantly and I love the nice minty-feel
Nice tingling sensation stays for more than 5 minutes.

Carmex Moisturizing Lip Balm

Net Wt. 10g
Php99.75 (approx $2.26)

Helps to moisturize and relieve dry chapped lips.

The rounded and smooth head makes it easy to apply straight to the lips

Texture of the balm is not too runny more sticky.  Just right.

Easy to apply straight to the lips or if you're sharing this,
you can choose to use your fingers or lip brush in application.  Hygienic packaging.

On lips, tingling sensation stays for more than 5 minutes!

Both products are worth giving a try especially if you're on the budget.  Mentholatum is runnier in texture while Carmex is a tad bit stickier.  Both have this nice minty feel which makes it really relaxing and soothing once applied on lips!

Carmex has a stronger minty taste while Mentholatum is on to the lighter side.  Both can relieve dry, chapped lips.  Both products work when used on a daily basis.  I like using them night time before I go to sleep and early morning while I dry my hair!  Both products are inexpensive yet works like a charm!

Have you tried any of these 2?
Which one's your favorite? I can't seem to pick one because I am always PRO on Variety!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Kiehl's Skincare Travel Set

AMW brother's gift to his sister is well thought of!  It was touching to know that he took all the time and effort to purchase me something I would use during his travels!  I'm a spoiled sister! 

The Christmas of 2009, he gifted me a Kiehl's Travel Set which was packed so prettily!  At that time, I did not try it out at once because I am finishing up a skincare line!  Like I've always said, its always taking me time to review skincare line because I don't want to waste products and I wanted to give my skin a "breather".  Changing from one skincare line to another will probably confuse my skin!

After using the Pond's Gold Radiance line, I've decided to use the Kiehl's travel set because my dearest brother came back last year with another skincare line for me to try!  L'occitane!  I am on the roll with skincare lines!  Thanks brotha! :D

 

Included in the set ---

Kiehl's Extremely Gentle Makeup Remover - review HERE

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Toner

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer

Kiehl's Lip Balm #1 Vanilla - haven't used yet

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser says ---

Mild cleanser specially formulated with sugar-derived glycoside foaming agent to thoroughly cleanse skin and remove makeup, without over-drying or stripping skin of its natural oils.  With effective emollients Squalene, Apricot Kernel Oil, Vitamin E, and Avocado Oil, our gentle formula dissolves excess oil, dirt, and residue.  PH-balanced to maintain skin's natural balance.  Tested for safety and gentleness.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Very simple packaging, makes it easy to control the amount of product needed.
• A tiny half a dallop size is enough for the whole face.
• Foams up really well.
• Very concentrated.  
• Leaves skin clean and moisturized!
• No allergic reactions nor skin irritations even on first use!
• Skin feels soft instantly.
• Removes regular makeup (not including the eyes).
• A tiny tube lasts a long time! 
• The dry part of my face is moisturized while the normal part of my face maintain its good moisture.  I do feel the right balance of this cleanser.

Cons

• For heavy makeup users, this won't be enough. 

Tips

• Apply small amount on fingertips, gently massage onto damp face with a circular, upward motion.
• Avoid the delicate areas around the eyes.
• Better to wash with warm water first then finish up with cool water.
• If you are a heavy makeup user, remove your makeup with your preferred makeup remover prior to washing your face.
• Use morning and evening.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Toner

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Toners says ---

This mild yet effective toner for all skin types helps refine surface texture while providing the ideal preparation for classic Ultra Facial Moisturizer. Made with effective emollients Squalane, Apricot Kernel Oil, Avocado Oil, and Vitamin E, our non-alcoholic toning formula gently removes oil, dirt and remaining residue while hydrating and comforting skin. PH balanced for optimal comfort and will not over-dry or strip the skin of its natural oils.

AMW says ---

Pros

• No stingy feel
• Very soothing once applied on skin!
• Gets absorbed into the skin instantly.
• Hydrates and refreshes.
• No weird smell.

Cons

• Packaging!  Can cause product wastage!
• If you expect to see dirt on cotton pads like most regular toners can do, you will be discouraged!  No alcohol so it won't strip off oil or dirt as you would want toners to!

Tips

• At times, I prefer using this as a serum, instead of using a cotton pad, I apply the product directly onto my clean hands then gently massage all over my face, patting motion for good absorption.
• Use morning and evening for better results.
• I suggest to use a cotton pad instead of cotton balls for less absorption of product which leads to wastage.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer says ---

This moisturizer is readily absorbed, leaving the surface area soft and nurtured. The moisturizing effects of this formulation are continued beneath the surface layers for daytime or anytime moisturizing and texturizing of the skin.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Very light and gets easily absorbed into the skin.
• No scent.
• Leaves skin smooth and moisturized the whole day!
• Works for a lot of skin type!  
• Does not feel heavy once applied.

Cons

• No SPF nor added properties like anti-aging.
• Packaging!  Not a fan of this difficult-to-squeeze packaging!
• Because of its moisturizing properties, may cause breakouts to some people.

Tips

• Oily skinned individuals can still use this but sparingly, need to wait longer prior to next product application.
• Dry skinned individuals like myself will love this dearly as it gets absorbed into the skin so quickly!
• Apply a tiny dime size amount for the whole face with upwards massaging motion.
• Do not apply this on the eye area.

Overall

The set works great for people who wanted to try the products without spending a lot!  I call this my Clinique 3-Step System alternative!  Does not have the strong perfume-y scent some skin care has and it works straight-to-the point, the cleanse, tone and moisturize without the frills!

Will I repurchase?
This is a nice alternative!  I'd love to repurchase this if I don't have another skincare system in line!

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone who complains about sensitive and dry skin or people with normal skin who would want to maintain skin's right PH level!  

Where to purchase and how much?
At Kiehl's store.  Sorry, I don't have the price of this set as it was gifted to me!  AMW bro can help out if he reads this post! :P

If you know the price of this set, you can let me know, I won't tell my bro!  :P
Have you tried Kiehl's Ultra line?
I'm glad I did, this is one brand I will definitely recommend for people to try :)

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Bulletin: Gift of Fragrance for Hearts Day!

As a fragrance enthusiast like myself, you won't be surprised to see me feature fragrances!  Aside from being a Chinese-Korean, I must be a dog in the past as I'm a sniffer!  (that sounds weird! LOL)  So I'm probably a Chinese-Korean dog in my past life? 

February, the love month, must have attracted a lot of love fragrances as there's a lot of new fragrances that has been launched or will be launched soon!  Here's a good deal I found on my email box that's inexpensive and yet, looks very sophisticated!  Perfect for the upcoming Valentine's Day if you still don't have gifts in mind!  For me, it'll be perfect to give to my mom and dad!  I must have gotten the "love for fragrance" from them!

Avon's Simply Because For Him and For Her

For the month of the hearts, Avon presents Simply Because captivating His and Hers fragrances that inspire the romantic in each of us to make each day extraordinary.  

Inspired with the beautifully bright and fresh musk oriental scent through the complementary mix of juicy lychee, delicate cherry blossom and creamy vanilla of Simply Because for Her and the crisp, effervescent, distinctively masculine scent of Fougere wood with touches of citrus zest, blue lavender and warm cedarwood of Simply Because For Him.

Simply Because For Her and For Him are available for an introductory price of Php399.00 (approx $9.00) as the regular price is Php800.00 (approx $18.00) from February 1 to 15, 2011 through Avon Representatives nationwide.  You can contact Avon Customer Hotline at (632) 864-2900 or visit www.avon.com.ph to find out how to get in touch with an Avon Representative.

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: ES Lashes

All makeup artists should have at least a set of false lashes in their makeup train case.  I myself have hoarded so much at Landmark (the famous Landmark lashes) and I've also hoarded a whole lot more during my Hong Kong trips and it was funny how it was checked during our transit to Shenzhen and I was questioned why I have so many False Lashes in my hand carry bag!  I had to explain to them that I am a makeup artist!  During those times, I thought I was hoarding too much!  But now, looking back, I wished I've purchased more!  The quality are great and the price is really good for approximately Php35.00-45.00 (approx $0.80-$1.00).

Don't get me wrong, the Landmark lashes are great but there are only few choices of their lashes I really like, the natural ones!  What if clients wanted more dramatic lashes?  Some of the Landmark lashes are plastic-y!  

Maggie of KKCenterHK emailed me asking me if I wanted to try their ES Lashes.  I checked their website first on their pricing before I said yes!  I don't want to effort myself reviewing products that are more expensive than what's offered down here!

After checking the prices and the variety of their lashes!  I was impressed and I said yes in giving them a test!  After a month or more, the lashes have landed!

False Lashes were neatly placed in a black box

ES Lashes say ---

• Lots Of 10 Pairs
• Brand New In Retail Packaging
• Make Your Eyes Look Bigger And Attractive
• Can Be Re-use If You Take Them Off Carefully
• False Eyelash With Box Package
• Suitable For Any Personage
• Can Be Used Party Or Professional Make Up

AMW says ---
Pros

• Each lashes are displayed in their rightful location inside the box.
• Many styles to choose from.
• Very natural lashes.
• Not plastic-y and does not hurt the eyes upon right application.
• Inexpensive for the quality.
• Comparable to branded lashes.
• Reusable if well taken care off.
• They automatically mark this as "gift".  I am hoping most postal office will take this seriously! 
• Shipping rate is not that bad if you chose the regular shipping method.

Cons

• Have to purchase online which means long waiting time!
• For some who needs to pick this up in this postal office (like myself), its a huge hassle!

Overall

I am impressed with the quality of these lashes!  Some are even comparable to Ardell lashes!  The thing is, I am not impressed with our postal office services :( I had to pick them up at the Main Post Office (Quiapo) and its not delivered straight the post office nearest our area! :(  I guess that's the only setback!  I really like to order these lashes because they are really inexpensive for the quality but its the long wait and the hassle that would probably stop me from purchasing :(

Tips

• Do not yank the lashes out prior to usage, instead, use a tweezer and gently pull out the lashes.
• Put the lash on your upper lash line without the glue to check if the length is okay.  Cut if necessary.
• Handle lash careful with both hands as you bend it a bit to maintain its curvature.
• If you plan to reuse the false lashes, gently remove them and glen the band with a makeup remover to remove makeup and glue.
• If you plan to reuse the false lashes, I would strongly suggest not to apply mascara directly onto the falsies.
• You can share shipping costs with fellow false lashes enthusiasts to save on shipping.
• If you want to see step-by-step tutorial on how to apply falsies, smile and click HERE.

Will I repurchase?
Yes, definitely but I may have to ask favor from friends who will be visiting HK to help me pick these up.

To whom do I recommend this to?

Makeup artists like myself who needs to have gazillions of false lashes available inside their makeup kit.

Individuals who loves to use false lashes on a daily basis.

Where to purchase and how much?

Online KKCenterHK between the range of $2.50-$12.00 (approx Php110.00-Php528.00) depending on lashes quality and material.  Please include shipping costs of Php31.00 (approx $0.70) per box.  You can have them calculate the total shipping rate prior to payment.

A10 Handmade Soft Black False Eyelashes

$11.68 (approx Php513.92) for box of 10 pairs

Very soft to touch and each pair are done with care! Feels like natural lash hairs.  

Very full and there are no space in between hairs.

A24 Clear Liner Short to Long Cross Fake Eyelashes

$5.40 (approx Php237.00) for box of 10 pairs

Lashes have this "firmer" touch.  Synthetic lashes but does not look like one!  Using this false eyelash would enhance a cat-eye look because of the longer at the outer corner.

A134 Handmade Clear Line Black Natural False Lashes

$7.49 (approx Php330.00) for box of 10 pairs

Gives out a more dramatic full lashes look.  Hair is very soft and the band is made of clear line which won't give out an obvious "line" most false lashes would give.  The longest part of the lashes is located at the middle portion which can give a wide-eye look!

 

A715 Black False Eyelashes

$10.94 (approx Php481.36) for box of 10 pairs

The lash band itself is made of a string instead of plastic which makes the false lashes very flexible!  Will take extra effort to apply as it does not have the "curve" most false lashes have.  Hair is very soft and full.  Alternate long and short hairs for a dramatic eyes.

A801 Handmade Clear Line Black False Eyelashes

$4.87 (approx Php214.00) for box of 10 pairs

Clear lash band for a more natural look.  Lash hairs are synthetic.  This is the perfect "Twiggy-look" lashes.

A020 Clear Liner Short Lower Eyelashes

$6.84 (approx Php301.00) for box of 10 pairs

Curved perfectly to fit the lower lashline.  Synthetic hairs but very soft to touch and looks very natural.

You will see me use these lashes on clients and on some of my FOTDs so do watch out for it!
Thanks to KKCenterHK for the trust in my blog to give these lashes a test!

Will give you update if there are some changes on my reviews on these products!

Not sure if you are into false lashes?
Does it makes a huge difference on your eye looks?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

 

(Note from Author: Product provided for PR consideration.  The author is not paid to write this post. All information written are based solely on author's personal experiences.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

Weekend Food Tripping at: The Real Thing Diner

It's THE DAY of the week, where calories rule!  I am glad looking back at photos do not add on pounds!  As I am getting hungrier by the minute I am writing this post!  Cropping food photos doesn't help!  

I've heard about a newly opened diner at Tomas Morato area when I listened Noelle Cassandra's plug over the radio.  Noelle Cassandra, for those who doesn't know her, is a famous Harp Artist who's got the talent and voice like an angel!  I've seen her perform live at Freeway event and I've met her via a common friend!  Very friendly and TALL lady!  It's out of the topic, I just had to say that *laughs*.

Anyways, when I heard about The Real Thing Diner, the name itself puts a twinkle into Mr. AMW's eyes.  Everyone knew how he loves to collect Coca Cola stuffs and how he's into drinking Coca Cola!  I promised him I will take him there but it took us months because we're always busy!

It was my mom-in-law's birthday this week and it was a perfect timing to try this restaurant as the whole family is into Coca Cola anyways! 

Once you step in, you see a lot of Coke memorabilia!  It's like a Coca Cola museum in which Mr. AMW got lost-in-space right away and forgot he has a wife!  *joking aside*  I sat down and took a look at the menu as he clicked away!

The cute Coca Cola Polar Bear!

Just in case you're wondering, everything's NOT on sale!

The cheery ambiance!  It was around 7:00pm when we arrived on a quiet Wednesday night.  I'm glad we had the opportunity to take such a nice photo as customers are starting to come in at around 8:00pm.

The gorgeous display at the cash register area!  Everything's so neat and clean!  

Even the table setting is well thought of!  I like the coaster!  So Coca Cola!

I guess I gushed so much on the look of The Real Thing Diner.  What about the food?  Here's what we ordered!

Criss Cut Fries

Php49.00 (approx $1.00)

I like the fact that their Criss Cut Fries are not overpriced and the serving size isn't that bad!  The criss cut fries are served hot and crispy!  Perfectly spiced to taste!  Not too salty nor spicy!  Just right!  I can definitely have another plate of this!

Sarsi Wings

Php199.00 (approx $4.50)

Buffalo wings glazed with special Sarsi glaze

I am not a cola drinker and the worst cola you can ever offer to me is Rootbeer!  I hate the taste and I just don't understand why people like drinking it!  (no offense to rootbeer lovers out there).  When I tweeted and checked about this restaurant, CanDIshhh tales tweeted back telling us that the Sarsi Wings is a must try in this diner!  Who am I to say NO?  I am quite adventurous when it comes to food!  It looks delicious anyways!  First bite, I can't explain the taste but it actually tastes good!  Sweet , tangy taste that plays inside your mouth!  I was so into this that I even licked on the sauce and I can taste the Sarsi right away!  :( So no licking of the sauce from now on!  I like the sauce with the wings!  The family loves the sauce poured on their rice!

 Grilled Lemon Chicken

Php259.00 (approx $5.80)

Tender Chicken Fillet infused with lemon and herbs

We asked the waiter what's their bestseller when it comes to chicken dish and he recommended this!  It's actually not bad!  The chicken is grilled just right!  Some people may not like the "burnt" look but I actually like it!  Crunchy on the outside and very juicy inside.  All chicken dishes are served with vegetables and 1 siding of your choice!  We chose mashed potatoes.  The mashed potatoes lack gravy though!  Actually there's no gravy at all!

Coca Cola Baby Back Ribs

Php399.00 (approx $9.00)

Tender baby back ribs glazed in their signature Coca-Cola BBQ sauce

I was actually worried that the ribs will come out dry and "boney" It's actually the star dish of the night!  The ribs was served juicy and full of flavors!  All meat dishes served with vegetables and 1 sider.  We were so in love with Criss Cut Fries that we requested for the same once again!

Coca-Cola Seafood Jambalaya

Php229.00 (approx $5.20)

A delicious medley of Coca-Cola, rice, celery and bell peppers, topped with prawns and dory

This is refreshing to taste!  The rice meal is quite flavorful and you can eat it on its own!  Spices were used which tastes quite distinct to the tongue!  Some people may not like it!  The shrimps and dory are great as toppings, very under-the-sea-like!

We wanted to be adventurous, the family ordered regular Coke and tried one of their non-alcoholic mixed drink!

Coca-Cola Egg Nog

Php99.00 (approx $2.00)

Coca-Cola with Vanilla, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Eggs and Milk.

Sorry, not a fan!  It didn't pass all our taste buds!

 

Because it was AMW MIL's birthday and the waiters are quite attentive eventhough we discreetly sang "Happy Birthday" song, my MIL got a free strawberry ice cream which puts a huge smile on her face!  She's an ice cream lover and she obviously can't wait to take a spoonful even during photo session!  *laughs*

Bought her 3 mini cakes from Dulcinea

The dishes in this restaurant are priced fairly!  All prices inclusive of 12% VAT and no service charge.  Diner accepts cash and credit card payments.  Pay parking at Il Terrazzo.  Servers are very attentive and friendly!

The Real Thing Diner

2nd Floor Il Terrazzo 

305 Tomas Morato Cor. Sct. Madrinan

QC

Sundays to Thursdays (11:00am to 2:30pm/ 5:30pm to 10:00pm)

Fridays and Saturdays (11:00am to 2:30pm/ 5:30pm to 11:00pm)

It was a wonderful mid-week food tripping and I'm actually off for another one soon!
Ahhhhh how food can relax us!

By the way, before I end this post, I want to thank each and every reader who read my "I am Pretty Powerful" post and thank you for all the kind words!  It was a huge pleasure of mine to be included in this campaign and its a blessing from God that I can touch lives even through simple posts like these.  Thank you!

YOU my dear friends, can also join the Bobbi Brown Pretty Powerful Campaign and get your chance to win your very own Pretty Face Palette!  You can click photo below on how to join!  Goodluck!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!