AMW Reviews: Dove Go Fresh Energizing Beauty Body Wash

I've used a number of body washes in the past and I'm not very particular on which one's my favorite, I can't seem to find one as they all feel the same!  Well, scents can differ from brand to brand but the effect it gives me are mostly the same.  

Not until I got myself a bottle of Dove Beauty Body Wash Go Fresh!

 

Dove Beauty Body Wash Go Fresh in Energizing proudly says ---

An energizing formula that gently awakens and hydrates your skin, with sparkling scent of Grapefruit and Lemongrass.  Feel Fresh.  Go Fresh.
Ingredients:

AMW says ---

Pros

• Packaging is simple yet refreshing to look at.
• Includes manufactured date which makes it easy for you to know how long the product has been with you or if it expires already.

• The cap isn't difficult to open.

• The scent is wonderful!  Really recharging!
• Suds up easily.
• A little goes a super long way!
• Moisturizes.
• Very gentle on skin.

Cons

• Soap lovers wouldn't be comfortable using this.
• The scent won't stay long!

Overall

This is my favorite body wash to date!  Highly recommended by yours truly!  This is definitely a refreshing way to wake me up minus Caffeine! :P

Tips

• Apply a tiny amount of body wash only a wet pouf or wash cloth, work into rich, creamy lather.
• You can always follow up with body oil or body lotion as drier skin individual like myself needed MORE!

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone who likes to wake up and take a shower with a lovely smell of grapefruit and lemon grass, I may not be able to distinguish each from the other but the combination works SUPER well!

Where to purchase and how much?
At beauty stores, groceries for less than Php100.00 (approx less than $2.30)

I'll leave you with a cute tiny bubble 

for a BUBBLY weekend!

What's your favorite Body Wash?  Whisper it to me and I may give it a try next.

Oh...do you sing in the shower?  I seriously Can't!!!!  I'll probably end up drinking shampoo + water + conditioner + lizard!  *laughs*  (The lizard is just a joke, I am in no way harming any animal in this post!)

Have a gorgeous Saturday!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Artistry Liquid Foundation SPF20 PA+++

Artistry --- when I think about the brand, I think about the wide skin care range they offer!  Boy have I missed a lot!  Artistry is also known for their cosmetics line.

I was invited by Dr. Michael John Hilario to have my Personal Artistry Experience.  I told myself its the best time for me to familiarize myself with the brand and products and report them all to you!  I am very grateful that "Meeko" (nickname) was very accommodating and patient!  He actually invited me last year and I only got the chance to visit the Center this year!

Like a kid on a candy store, I've checked out almost ALL the Artistry products!  I will insert them here once in awhile for AMW readers to know more about the products the brand offer!  A lot of them worthwhile!

I want to have a jump start with the Artistry Liquid Foundation with SPF20 PA+++

Liquid Foundation SPF 20 PA+++ says ---

Artistry foundations fit your skin perfectly.

They have 2 types of formulation ---

1. Artistry Balancing Foundation, with balancing matrix, equalizes combination-to-oily skin.
2. EFA-rich Artistry Hydrating Foundation nurtures normal-to-dry skin. 

Both share: Desert Hydration Complex for optimum hydration, Aura of Protection for free radical defense and SPF20 PA+++ for protection.  Also, Ideal Shade Technology intuitively adjusts to match your skin tone so you can find your way to flawless.

AMW says --- (On Hydrating Foundation)
Pros

• Very light on skin.
• No weird smell.
• Does not feel heavy at all!  Actually feels like airbrushed foundation!
• Gives a nice light to medium coverage.
• Can double up as concealer if you apply more on areas that needed coverage.
• Does not dry up my skin.
• No signs of irritations nor allergic reactions.
• A little goes a long way!  I used only a drop for the whole face, I just covered my under eye circles and the center of my face.
• Has SPF20 PA+++!

Cons

• Glass bottle is gorgeous but no pump!
• Difficult to purchase, cannot be found easily inside a mall!
• Shade is not enough! 

Overall

I can easily compare the feel of this foundation with an expensive foundation.  I wore this makeup for the whole day doing errands, and even took a nap and woke up with foundation looking intact!  I wouldn't mind using this for myself but I wouldn't carry this around for clients as the bottles are quite heavy and the shade choices are limited.

Tips

• Try to check the testers by visiting the Artistry Center or contacting the rep from Artistry to swatch on the shades.
• Choose the right shade for your skin by applying foundation directly on your jawline and examine under natural daylight.
• You can use clean fingers, sponge or foundation brush for application.
• You can choose to apply thinly on areas that do not need much coverage and apply  more to act as "concealer" for problem areas like under eye circles or marks.

Will I purchase?
I wouldn't mind purchasing this for myself but I have loads to finish up at present.

To whom do I recommend this to?

The hydrating foundation (that I've used) are great for normal and dry skin.  The foundation gives a nice clean finish minus the dryness.  If you have oily skin, you can choose the Balancing Foundation which was made for oilier friends out there.  The downside is, there are only 2 shades available for the Artistry Balancing Foundation.

Where to purchase and how much?

You check out the locally available product lines by visiting www.amway2u.com or www.amway.com.ph. 
You can email Michael John Hilario (Meeko) for your Artistry Products query (mjthilariomd@gmail.com)
Check out Artistry on Facebook (search "Artistry Skin Care and Cosmetics") http://www.facebook.com/artistry.

Hydrating Foundation and Balancing Foundation costs Php1,470.00 (approx $34.00) for 30ml.

I gave one pump on each shade on my hand

1.  Vanilla
2. Soleil
3. Golden
4. Brulee

A mix of Soleil and a tiny bit of Vanilla! 

Sorry, lighting was a bit bad when this photo was taken

Have you tried any Artistry Products?
I've once tried the Artistry Waterproof Mascara 200 and I wasn't that impressed, I'm glad I will be giving this brand another try and Meeko actually told me their mascara is of better formulation!  Again, I can't really tell as I've only tried MOST of the Artistry products once!  But hey, I still have a lot of things to say you know! *winks*

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Purederm's Nutritive Firming Hydro Pure Gel Mask

I haven't been on mask mojo lately, you want to know why?  If you read my twitter messages, you'll know that I'm addicted to games lately and I've been finishing up games after games after games!  I've been sleeping late for a couple of weeks!  I know, it's not healthy!  And NO, I'm not on my second childhood! :P

I was on the roll with Purederm masks when I was sent with a couple to try!  I have been quite lucky with most of the Purederm Products I've tried as they work for me!  Or have I spoke too soon?  

There is one that gave me the allergies and I took note on the ingredients as my skin is sensitive, and I have to admit, I do have allergies to certain ingredients I can't tell up to this very moment! 

(Note from AMW:  Not everybody will have the same allergic reactions as I did.)

Purederm Nutritive Firming Hydro Pure Gel says ---

Contains high-moisturizing ingredients that penetrate deep into the skin to deliver results. You will notice the mask become thinner with time, as the active ingredients get absorbed into your skin.

The rich invigorating mask is enriched with Caviar Extract, Green Tea Extract and VitaminE and other natural ingredients to visibly nourish, lift and firm your skin to bring back it’s youthful glow. Leaving you looking and feeling for the day ahead!

Use this for: Uneven Skin Tone, Brightening

AMW says ---

Pros

• Easy tear packaging.

• 2 sheets, upper part of the face and lower part which makes it easier to adhere to each individual's face shape.
• Sticks to the face easily!
• Moisturizes the skin even after several days.
• I can instantly see and feel the "brightening" effect of this mask right after I peel it off.
• Has a nice cool sensation.
• People may find the gel-like texture weird but I personally like it, its the best fitting face mask I've tried!
• Expires after 3 years from manufactured date.

Cons

• Gave me a bit of allergies on the lower cheek and chin area a couple of days after.
• The firming effect cannot be seen or felt at first usage.

Overall

This is one of the few masks I really love!  I call it LOVE-at-First-Use!  This mask gave me the instant moisture that stayed for several days after first usage.  I may have to add that the instant brightness that my skin exudes is a huge plus! Sad to say, one of the active ingredient that's part of this mask isn't meant for me!  Allergies around my lower cheek and chin area occur for the next 4-5 days!  It wasn't that bad but it was definitely itchy!  This was the only "new product" I've tried when the allergic reactions happened.

Tips
from Purederm

• Thoroughly cleanse and dry face.
• Take out and unfold the mask and apply it on your face.
• Wear the mask for 15~20 minutes and peel off slowly from the edges.

from AMW

• Make sure to apply this on clean, dry face.
• Do not leave for more than the amount of time stated in the instructions.
• Once mask is removed, gently massage the remaining ingredients onto the face for absorption.
• Check on ingredients and see if you are allergic to any of it.
• If signs of itchiness or irritations occur, remove mask immediately and wash your face with your facial wash.
• If signs of irritations appear several days after, try not to self-treat it but have it checked with a professional.
• Avoid using on blemished or acne skin.

Will I repurchase?
No.  I'll give other variants a try.

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone who's not allergic to any of the ingredients in this mask.  For people who likes the natural bright skin plus the moisture!

Where to purchase and how much?
At Watson's or local beauty stores for Php199.75 (approx $4.65) per sheet

The back of the packaging, 

with Korean and English instructions

A closer look on the gel-like mask

Sticks to the face like a glove :)  

Now I look like Shrek!  Or Princess Fiona? :D

After removal, fresh faced!

Too bad, I am really in love with the moisturizing power and the brightening power of this mask!
If only I can find a similar mask that works the same minus the allergies!

Ever been allergic to face masks?
Share 'em and we can take down notes!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Product sent by company for review.  The author is not affiliated with the company and all reviews are done base on author's personal experiences.  Please purchase at your own discretion!)

AMW Reviews: San San Mousse Foundation

I've got to learn about San San makeup when Kris Aquino was the endorser for the said brand!  I've always been interested with their lipsticks or the nail polishes but never took a second glance on their foundation!  When I was requested to do a review on some San San products, I am glad the San San Mousse Foundation was included as these reminded me of the famous "Maybelline Dream Mousse Foundation".  I've never tried the Maybelline ones by the way as I've always been turned off with the look of their "dried up" testers.

San San Mousse Foundation says ---

San San Mousse Collection has an air whipped formula that provides long lasting colour. It glides on smoothly and blends easily for a natural radiant finish. The products under the Mousse Collection are enriched with Vitamins A, C and E and are sold at a price affordable to the budget-conscious beauty shopper because HBC believes that everyone has the right to be beautiful.

AMW says ---
Pros

• Inexpensive!
• Gives light - heavy coverage.
• Can be applied with fingers, sponge or brush.
• Doubles up as a concealer.
• Matte, powder finish.
• Blends easily with fingers!  No harsh lines nor white casts.
• The texture of the mousse foundation is okay to "mix"
• Does not oil up easily (base on my dry skin).

Cons

• Jar packaging makes it difficult to pick up product especially with long fingernails.
• Limited shades!  
• No SPF
• Can show skin flakiness if you have very dry skin.

Overall

For its price, you've got nothing to complain as it gives a nice coverage at the same time, the finish is quite natural!

Tips

• Request for a "makeover" or at least, try on their testers before you purchase.  Not a difficult choice as there's only 3 shades to choose from.
• Use a spatula instead of your fingers for hygiene.

• Warming up the product on your "clean" hands for ease of application.
• If you really like the coverage of this product, since it's not expensive, you can purchase 2 shades and mix them together!  You have to try it before you purchase if the mixing works on you!  (On my part, I mix a bit of the Natural with Olive).

• For Oily Skin:  Use an oil-control primer prior to application.
• For Dry Skin: Mix a fragrance-free light moisturizer onto the mousse foundation, blend in prior to application.

• For Sensitive Skin: test the product behind your ear or below the cheeks and leave it a couple of hours before you apply it all over your face.
• Do not skip your skincare regimen.
• Do not forget your sunblock!
• If you tend to oil up, dust the areas that oil up easily with a setting powder or oil-control powder.

Will I repurchase?
No.  Not for my skin type.

To whom do I recommend this to?

Normal or Oily skinned individuals.  It would be best if your skin color is either of the three shades available.  Mixing shades at all times will be a bit tedious!

Where to purchase and how much?
Locally at HBC stores for Php150.00 (approx $3.50) each.

A closer look on the shades from their jars

 Natural is great for people with yellow skin tone

 Beige has a bit of pinkish undertone to it

 Olive has a bit more orange shade 

which makes it good as an under eye concealer

Applied on hand with a spatula

 

 A Mix of Natural Mousse Foundation and a tiny bit of Olive

Applied on moisturized face

As seen on the arrows, there are obvious dryness on my drier areas like the sides of the nose, sides of the lips and the chin area.

I mixed a drop of Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer onto the Mixed Moussed Foundation, blended well with my fingers and applied on my other cheek.  Looks much better!

Do you have foundation that tends to dry up your skin?  Have you tried mixing them with a light moisturizer?  It works especially if you feel guilty throwing out a product you spent much on!

Have you tried San San Mousse Foundation?
Let me know your experience and more tips will be very much appreciated!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Note from Author: Product provided for review purposes.  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.)

Eureka Moment: A Quad So Versatile...

Today's Eureka Moment is not from a Japan Home Center or from any supermarket or department stores.  This is quite a unique Eureka Moment entry because I actually got this for free and it has been sitting inside my make-up drawer for months and months! 

Mind you, this is not even a full size!  It's a tiny sample size of the Bobbi Brown's Champagne Quartz Eye Quad.   The packaging is so tiny its actually the same size of some single eyeshadow packaging out there!

 

Champagne Quartz Eye Quad includes Bone Shimmer, Champagne Quartz Metallic, Copper Sand Shimmer and Expresso.

• Bone Shimmer has a hint of shimmer with almost matte white texture.  This works best to highlight browbone area.
• Champagne Quartz Metallic has a bit of similarity with the famous Stila Kitten eyeshadow.   Gives out a very subtle glow which works well to blend in smokey eye makeup or just use as a base!
• Copper Sand Shimmer can pass for a deep gold/coppery shade with specks of gold shimmers!  This gives out a nice wash all over your lid!  Best applied on the inner thirds of the lids. 
• Expresso, the name speaks for itself, plain dark brown chocolate shade!  No frills, just matte dark brown perfect to be applied over the outer-v for that deep set eye look.  Or apply all over the lids to create a single colored smokey eyes!

The sample size of this quad has been kept inside my makeup drawer for months so I am not sure if they still sell the full size of this quad!  I believe you can purchase each eyeshadow color though at Bobbi Brown counters. 

A photo of the sample sized Bobbi Brown Quad

against my tiny hand

Here's to show you how versatile this tiny palette is!  I actually found this to be really useful on one make-up gig I've done for 6 clients.  

(Note from AMW:  I did not use all 4 shades on each client, its a mix and match of various eye shadows but I've used at least a single shade from this quad in each of them)

From a teenager

To Young Adults

 

  

To Adults

 

  And a Mature Client who's proud to be 87 years old!
My oldest client to date :)

I found ways to use the tiny, yet powerful quad to each of the clients shown above!  I will definitely be taking it along with me on all gigs and it won't leave my train case for now!

And here's a proof on what smiling can really do....

Brings out natural beauty, with or without makeup!
So where's that smile of yours?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Note from Author: Make-up done by Nikki of AMW, Hairstyle by Yrynne)