The PFW Unbeaten Challenge: There's Nothing Wrong In Trying to Save Up!

AskMeWhats can pass up as my beauty diary because long time reader would know my skin care regimen, my current favorites and when I get so excited for something that deserve a space for my "Eureka Moments"!

Readers see me post a lot of inexpensive to expensive make-up, hair products or even random stuff, but seldom can you find me rave about an Inexpensive Skin Care line.  Sad to say, my skin has its own "expensive taste".

Don't get me wrong, I am not a brand snob!  I grew up with normal skin and I can even get away with soap and water!  It's just that, as I grew older, my skin is getting back at me by "craving" for a bit pricier skincare brands!  It all started when I turned the big 3-0, my skin totally changed and I was actually looking into expensive Skin Care brands when none from the inexpensive brands would work for my skin situation!  Quoting Mr. AMW: "Go ahead, spend a bit more on skincare as you only have one face and you have to take care of that face that I love!"  --- awwww....

That's when my skin care budget rose to "I don't want to mention the price" level! 

I, as part of the Pond's pool of bloggers whom they invite to attend events to serve as a "medium" in sharing information regarding Pond's new product launches or contests!  That's why when I got an invite a couple of weeks ago, I wasn't expecting to be surprised!

We were asked to bring along a friend and my dearest friend Sophie (small world, also my school mate) chose me to be her partner/friend because she loves me! *winks*  She doesn't mention it a lot but I assumed and my assumptions are always right! :P

In all honesty, Sophie and I became friends when we met as Bloggers, it was a small world to know that she studied at the same elementary and high school I studied and she started calling me "Achie" (Older sister) because, I am obviously older!  It all started out with Gmail Chatting, to emailing, to texting and now, phone calling!  It was easy for us to share stories as light as random jokes to make-up talk, food talk to more serious stuff about life in general!  That's why it was such a nice feeling to know that I will be doing a challenge with her!

 AMW and the Beautynomist during an event

What challenge?

Pond's Flawless White Challenge, or PFW Challenge.  We were tasked to say goodbye to our current expensive skin care regimen as one will chronicle the 3-weeks experience of using only Pond's Flawless White Line.

Sophie and I looked at each other, we're both Bloggers, and we're both Product Reviewers!  Both of us are a bit wary to give up our current skin care regimen!  

Right after a quick presentation from the Pond's team regarding the Pond's Flawless White being tested by Skin Scientists on a  "half face" clinical study as they concluded that Prestige Brands can't beat Pond's Flawless White. Now we're talking! 

With that statement in mind, I told Sophie I'll do the challenge because I want Pond's to prove to me how true such statement was and at the same time, it would be great if I can trim down my skincare expenses!  Sophie agreed to write about my experiences and I am quite happy with the set up because we talk almost everyday anyways!

So now, the challenge is officially on!  I bid goodbye to my pricey skincare products and even stopped using my ever reliable BB Cream!  Yes, I feel so naked and honestly?  Scared!  But what the heck?  This is even better than eating snakes, spiders or cockroaches --->  a challenge I will definitely chicken out! 

To read Sophie's witty entry, head on to Pond's Microsite and don't forget to send us some love by liking our entry and you can also give us some lovin' by leaving us words of encouragement at the end of each entry! :)

Before I end this post, here's a cartoon version of Sophie and myself!  She loves calling me "Pucca", I don't know if its because I look like her or I am as hyper as her!  Whatever the reasons are, I am getting back at her by calling her "Garu".  Don't get mad Soapy dear, Pucca Loves Garu!  You know that!  *winks*

 Ok, serious na!

(you can click photo to read and Like our entry)

thank you! :) 

  
Wish us luck!
Don't forget to vote your other favorite Blogger entries too! :)

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Tip for the Day: Party Make-up For Moms

Happy Friday everyone!  Are you in good spirits?  I hope I am as I've been feeling down the weather for a couple of days, probably from running around here and there and I always have to remind myself I am not a robot! 

My high school friend, came back from the US for a quick vacation for her daughter's baptism.  I was honored that she wanted me to do her make-up and specifically wanted Keith to be the photographer (Darn!  I was hoping he's doing the hair!  hahaha Just joking!).  Mr. and Mrs. AMW is definitely a tag team! 

While creating a look for her, my readers are definitely in my thoughts!  I may have a lot of student readers out there but of course, I did not forget those mommy readers who emailed me or messaged me on Cbox on how they want to prettify themselves but felt its difficult to do so as make-up tends to disappear on them especially for moms who are hands-on.

Just like my good friend Jals.  I am amazed on how the couple were able to stay calm, maintain composure, greet guests and smile while their baby girl is sick and crying 50% of the time!  The wonders of parenthood.  

I will share some tips for moms out there who want to look good on special occasions!  Yes, it is allowed to look gorgeous while you take care of your kid!

Before I pick up any make-up for Jals, I bear in mind to use hypo-allergenic or products with less harmful ingredients to protect not only the clients' skin but also their babies.

I also try to apply as light make-up as possible as babies or kids could get really clingy when they are tired and sleepy!  Let's not forget, there will also be a lot of smacking and T.L.C.

Jals have combination skin.  She gets oily on T-zone and dry on the rest of her face like cheeks and forehead!  Because of temperature change plus jet lag, Jals' face is a bit red and I concentrated on matching her face color and neck.

Prior to foundation application, I applied a thin layer of oil-free moisturizer on her drier areas and evenly spread an oil-control primer on parts of her face that oils up!  I waited for a couple of minutes and took the time to choose the right foundation for her.

But before we go into foundation application, I used a couple of correctors (green for redness, orange for undereye circles) for a nice base before I apply a thin layer of the chosen foundation.

You can't get away with oily lids if you have oily skin.  I did not forget to apply a good amount of eye primer for eyeshadow to stay crease-free and budge-proof.  It also helps the eyeshadow to stay longer and prevent Panda Eyes.

False lashes are a must on most occasions, in this case, I chose to give falsies a skip as she is carrying her daughter 90% of the time, I want her to be comfortable!  I curled her lashes and applied coat after coats of mascara!  Do not be afraid to use 2 types of mascaras.  One for volumizing and another one for lengthening.

Use a contouring powder on the nose area and cheeks for better-looking photographs!  Apply a tiny amount of blush then I finished with a nice cream lipstick.  I skipped on lip glosses as I don't like the feeling of "gooey gloss" when someone kiss me on the cheek, I am sure babies feel the same!

Before and After Photo of Jals

I instructed Jals to carry an oil blotting sheet a tube of lipstick on her pouch.  I told her I'll help her out with retouch because I am a guest for the Baptism Dinner anyways.

Here's a photo of Jals with her makeup artist for the day.  If you're wondering why I'm semi-dolled up, well I am her daughter's Godparent!  I may have to add --- A cool one!  *winks*

This photo was taken around 2:30pm.

After Baptism ceremony around 4:00pm.  Izzy was crying and clingy the whole time as she's not feeling well.

At around 9:00pm at the reception area with very minimal powder retouching (only on oiled up areas).  With just one tube of lipstick, I was able to retouch her lip color at the same time, used the same tube of lipstick as "cream blush".   Pat the cheek area with an oil blotter to remove the "oiliness of the lipstick" then  set with another thin layer of loose powder.  She's ready for her photos to be taken!

I am glad my good friend's makeup stayed until the end of the party, I've seen proofs on how a very busy mom can still look gorgeous!  I look up to them because they were able to manage a very successful party!  I don't see any stressed moment from either one of them and it shows on their photos!

A friendly note from AMW:

If you are a busy mom, stop making excuses and start prettifying yourself.  You don't have to pile on makeup to look gorgeous, a simple blusher or lipstick can be enough to make you look and feel good!  You deserve it!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Something New: Avon Fashions' Cool and Fresh Summer Collection

I knew summer is coming up when I'm starting to wear short sleeved tops, dresses or shorts at work!  I am lucky to be working in a very relaxed environment (thus the loud nail art designs!).

Our friends from Avon Philippines celebrates the summer heat with new Avon Fashions' Cool and Fresh Summer Collection.

Let's take a look at the inner wear. 

Taylor Brassiere and 3-in-1 Panty Pack

Cool hues of blues and greens from this collection gives a nice feel to just chill and lounge under the sun.  The Taylor Brassiere is an underwire multi-way bra in an aqua tropical print which can be worn conventional or criss-cross.  It comes with a removable halter strap for multiple looks.  The Taylor 3-in-1 Panty Pack on the other hand comes in a sexy overlap bikini silhouette giving a nice contrast against "soon to be tanned" skin.

Brassiere Price: Php410.00 (approx $9.70)

Taylor 3-in-1 Panty Pack: Php299.00 (approx $7.10)

If you are not comfortable to flaunt your body, there's also the Taylor Tank and Shorts Set. 
Taylor Tank and Shorts Set: Php425.00 (approx $10.00)

Let's not forget our accessories to stand out and be a natural stylista that you are! 

Spring Green Jewelry Collection

The Avon Fashions Spring Green Jewelry Collection composed of a necklace, bracelet, earring and ring.  The Spring Green tone gives a nice "feel" which reminded me of beach!

According to Avon Fashions Mix Style Ambassador Bianca Gonzales: "I'm always looking forward to summer because of all the vacations I have planned and the clothes and accessories I get to put on.  There's no time more perfect than this sizzling season to wear colorful pieces and Avon Fashions Cool and Fresh summer collection does the trick.  The cool color combination gives me that fresh twist I'm always looking for."

Regular Price: Php399.99 each (approx $9.50)

There's another different look to choose from for those special occasions - shall I add Beach Weddings?  

Avon Fashions' Spring Blossom Jewelry Line

Goldtone with enamel designs and clear stones.  The collection includes necklace, earrings, ring and watch!

According to Avon Fashions Style Ambassador Ruffa Guttierez, "Although I am not afraid to wear bold and loud jewelry, my everyday choice is always classic, easy-to-pair accessories like Avon Fashions' Spring Blossom Collection.  The white and gold pieces give such an elegant vibe.  It enhances my skin tone and looks good both with casual and formal wear."

Spring Blossom Necklace: Php450.00 (approx $10,70)

Spring Blossom Earrings: Php450.00 (approx $10.70)

Spring Blossom Ring: Php599.00 (approx $12.30)

Spring Blossom Watch: Php1,299.00 (approx $31.00)

The Avon Fashions Cool and Fresh and Spring Blossom collections are available through Avon Rwepresentatives nationwide.  Call Avon Customer Hotline at (632) 864.2900 or log on to www.avon.com.ph to find out how you can get in touch with an Avon representative.

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
Enjoy summer!

(All information received from a PR representative, the author is not affiliated with the company/brand.  This post is for information purposes)

AMW Reviews: BRTC Perfect Recover Balm

I haven't been reviewing much about BB Creams recently because I am contented with my Skin79 VIP Gold BB Cream and I purchased loads for backup during my Seoul Trip.  But given the chance to try other BB Creams, I won't mind as long as it doesn't give me the allergies or skin irritations and who knows?  I may find something even better! 

BRTC Perfect Recover Balm is one BB cream I won't forget because when I was still on my BB Cream Craze (BBCC - yes I invented this one again!), I stalked Korean Ebay sellers and I cannot take my eyes off BRTC brand especially this specific variant called Perfect Recover Balm because it earned raves after raves on various blog sites!

The reason why I ended up with other brands to try because the said brand and variant costs a lot!  If my memory serves me right, the lowest I found for 30ml tube is at least $30.00 + shipping!  

And who would've thought I finally got the chance to try this out? 

BRTC Perfect Recover Balm says ---

BRTC Perfect Recover Balm is an effective BB Cream for controlling sebum and gives instant soothing care for troubled skin.

Size: 30ml

AMW says ---

Pros

• Perfect squeeze-type tube making it easy to control how much product you want.

• New product comes with a seal to maintain "freshness".

• Gives a light to medium coverage, can cover a bit of spots and redness.
• Blends easily light to medium skin color. (for MAC users I would say NC20-35)
• No weird scent.
• Foundation stays longer.
• Can control the oilies.
• Gives a nice "brighter" look.
• No shimmer, comes out matte finish.
• For Oily skin: No greasy feel!  For Dry Skin: Does not dry up or flake up your skin!
• Can be used for both men and women as it doesn't come out too obvious.

Cons

• Box comes with Chinese and Korean instructions, you have to research online on ingredients and usage.

• One shade available.
• Since this BB Cream is a bit thicker as compared to others I have tried, it takes a bit of time to blend.
• Did not list if it has SPF so I'm not sure if it has any?

Overall

The BRTC Perfect Recover Balm is not bad!  I am surprised how I am loving this!  I was expecting my skin to flake or dry out but it didn't!  As compared to the Skin79 VIP Gold BB Cream, the BRTC gives a bit more coverage without feeling heavy!  This control the oilies better and what I love most about this product is it did not give me any irritations nor breakouts!

Tips

• Apply thin amount of BRTC Perfect Recover Balm all over your face and add up on areas that needed more coverage or areas that are acne prone.
• If you have very dry skin, apply your choice of moisturizer first before applying this BB cream.
• Try to wait for a couple of minutes after application to let the product set in.  Try to check on your reflection if the BB cream is too light on you or it creates a mask on your face!  If yes try to adjust the shade by using a darker foundation!
• Warm the BB cream at the back of your "clean hands" and gently apply all over your face with a light, massaging motion.
• If you want to see the real effect of BRTC Perfect Recover Balm, consistently use it for a couple of months and take before and after shots to see if product really works for you!
• Since this seems to not have the SPF we want, use a face sunblock prior to going out under the sun!
• Stop usage once signs of irritations occur.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?

According to the site, this is for anyone who has oily and troubled skin, dehydrated troubled skin or even dull and sensitive skin!

Personally, this would be great for normal and oily skinned individuals and best for people who would want the extra "brightening" effect.  It does make dull skin more lively!

Where to purchase and how much?
Locally at Wehaveit43 multiply site for Php900.00 (approx 21.00) + Shipping.
You can also visit their shop called ---

Wang Lai Mart

876-D Banawe St. Barangay Siena, QC

(Beside Hap Chan Restaurant)

Tel. no: (632) 749-1264

Open hours: Mondays to Saturdays 9:30am to 9:00pm

BRTC Perfect Recover Balm

available in one shade

The shade is a bit pinkish

Blended on hand, it goes on really light

then it gently blends into my skin color

My bare skin (left) and skin 

with a thin layer of BRTC Perfect Recover Balm (right)

Here's the thing, since this is a "recover balm" as its name stated, I actually BEGGED Mr. AMW to use this only on his "spots" because I wouldn't want him to turn into a Misis!  *laughs*

Mr. AMW actually has wonderful looking skin (even better than mine)and  due to food allergies-turned-nightmare which left him with acne marks, I am on the search to help him at least, lessen the marks.
 
Because he loves me, he agreed on using BRTC Perfect Recover Balm but ONLY on visible spots and marks!  I will report back and see if it does anything for him!  If it does, then hey, it doesn't hurt for guys to try to use BB cream as its actually made to help laser surgery patients to protect soothe and regenerate their highly sensitive skin while providing good coverage for post-laser scars and redness at the same time gives "healing" properties, I don't see why guys shouldn't take advantage of this!

Mr. AMW may hate me but if it works, he has to thank me for being such a dedicated "product reviewer" :P

Ok, the deal is, I"ll do Plants vs. Zombies nails he will give this BB Cream a try!  *laughs*  I guess I'll have to start praying for nail painting talent as he is doing his end of the deal!

I am a good wife aren't I?

I'll report back if it does anything to him, for me, I like the "brightening" effect it gives and my skin looks livelier with this BB cream underneath my powder foundation!

Have you tried BRTC?
Have you found your perfect BB Cream or you totally gave up?


Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Tech Review: Golla Case for Iphones and Ipod touch

I remember those days when I enjoy using a slip-in pouch for my Nokia phone!  I tend to panic when I get phone calls and I would like to answer them right away!  Having a complicated pouch won't be much of a help that's why the simpler the pouch, the better and the longer my life span will be!  *chuckles*

Since I changed my phone, a slip in pouch for my current phone will be much appreciated!  I was sent one from Golla Philippines and it looked like this...

Looks so cool!  Reminded me a bit of those tattoo artists!  Don't ask me why, it's probably the design!

Map-like design at the front part

A nice G Font for Golla or Generation Mobile?

The size is just right and you can easily open up the pouch. 

I can slip in my Iphone easily, what I like about its inner texture is its softness, you won't make a mistake of scratching your phone because the insides of the Golla Case are well cushioned.

Fits like a glove

But then, the Ipod Touch pouch of Mr. AMW was torn apart

(as seen on photo below)

I willingly gave my Golla pouch to him as he needed it more, with pink sides and all!  He's actually OC like me and wouldn't want to remove the existing silicon case of his Ipod Touch.

The Ipod Touch, together with its silicon case, fits Golla Case perfectly!

Golla Pouches can be purchased locally for Php690.00 (approx $16.00) at the following retails stores ---

• The Travel Club
• Globe Telecom
• Bratpack
• Fullybooked
• Istudio
• Hello Telecom
• Fashion Rack
• PowerMac
• Island Souvenir
• A Shop

You can check out Golla Website for their 2011 collection by smiling and clicking HERE.

By the way, Golla will be giving away three prized gadget bags or cases this month!

How to join and get yourself the chance to win?  Kindly click photo below for contest mechanics!  Goodluck!

 

As for myself, I am ok with my Pink Case because "girly" doesn't want to leave my side!

And oh, I also have this in white!

I tried to be hip and cool, but there are circumstances in life that does not allow me to!

Such as hubby who needs it more *winks*

What do you use to protect your gadgets?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!