AMW Reviews: San San Everyday Cheek Tint

Benefit's Benetint is famous for their gorgeous cheek tints! Unfortunately, the brand is not available locally so we have to settle for other brands and I may have to say (with conviction), most of them don't come cheap!  

I have tried The Body Shop's Lip and Cheek Tint and it works fabulously!  Like most cheek tints, working fast, I mean, really fast is one requirement that you should master!  Cheek tints are known to dry quickly even during application, a lot of us find it quite hard to blend!

There's actually one cheek tint brand that does not require you to work like a superhero!  San San Everyday Cheek Tint!  Read on for the rest of my review!

San San Everyday Cheek Tint says ---

For a natural-looking flush after moisturizing.
Size: 10ml

Ingredients: Aqua, Propylene Glycol, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Ascorbyl Palmmitate (Vitamin C), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Proply Paraben, Methyl Paraben, Phenoxyethanol. 

Available in ONE shade only.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Cute and simple packaging.
• Well sealed upon purchase.

• Inexpensive.
• Doesn't dry up easily as compared to other cheek tints.
• Gives a super natural flush.
• Used as blush powder base, the blush powder stays a bit longer.
• Does not trigger dryness.
• No weird scent.
• No skin irritations or itchiness.

Cons

• If you want the cheek tint to show up, you have to apply a lot!  
• The brush that comes with the product is not that good.  Can't complain for the price though.

• I find this product takes a bit longer time to dry up as compared to other brands.
• May slide off if you have super oily skin.

Overall
Promises the natural flush the product promises!

Tips

• Since the product shows up a bit light, I suggest applying this after your "powder foundation" or "setting powder".
• Add the product as desired.
• Grab a bit of product, apply it on the apples of your cheeks and gently "dab".  Dabbing will make the product show up more.

• If you want a more obvious cheek tint, drop 4-5 drops of San San Everyday Cheek Tint on a cap, use a stippling brush to "stipple" the product on the apples of your cheeks.
• You can top the product with your favorite powder blush.  Once the powder blush disappears, you still have a naturally colored cheek tint underneath.
• Always stand back and check your application.

Will I repurchase?
I seldom repurchase cheek tints as it takes me forever to use up.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who is into very natural-looking blush.  People who are into "obvious" blush won't appreciate this product.  Best for normal and dry skin.

Where to purchase and how much?
Can be found on HBC site for $3.93 (approx Php168.00), or local HBC stores for less than Php200.00

One swipe, you can see how "watery" the product is

With a "patting" motion, product well distributed 

and dried up into a super natural, sheer red color

Applied on cheeks without powder blush

Super light and natural 

What's another inexpensive cheek tints you have tried for daily use?
Give us a shout out and I'm glad to check it out too!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(Product sent for PR consideration.  Review 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Bulletin: Airbrush Workshop with AMW and Beautynomics!

Hi everyone!  Airbrush makeup has been getting its good reputation and I'm glad local companies like GlamBox Airbrush Cosmetics are coming up with a simpler system for simpler ways to beautify oneself!

Gosh, an afternoon filled with beauty talk?  I'm excited!  I hope you are too!

30 spots will be up for grabs.  Comment on GlamBox Airbrush Cosmetics Fan Page or email them at glamboxcosmetics@yahoo.com and tell them why you want to join!  (More details below as taken from GlamBox FB Page)

What: GlamBox’s First Ever Airbrush Makeup Workshop!
Who will conduct the workshop: This event is organized in cooperation with Nikki of Askmewhats.com and Sophie of Beautynomics.com. Both top beauty bloggers will teach the participants how to use airbrush make up and share other beauty tips.

Where and When: The event will be held at the Bulb Studio on July 30, 2011.
Who can join: This contest/workshop is open to all GlamBox fans and readers of Askmewhats.com and Beautynomics.com

Can't wait to spend a fun-filled afternoon with my dearest friend and sister Sophie and, hopefully, YOU!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Lunasol Micro Finish Powder N

Lunasol, the brand I've been stalking for years!  I remember reading reviews and raves from international beauty bloggers and I've been putting this product in and out of the "online shopping cart".  What's stopping me is the price, and the fact that the product may get lost along international transit which will probably put me in *insert dramatic music*  tears!

Can you imagine my glee when Kanebo Sale took place at the same building I work at?  I visited the office on the first day of sale and it was Lunasol heaven!

What caught my attention is the Lunasol Micro Finish Powder N.  I am on the look out for a good setting powder for clients. The thing is, I cannot bear purchase a full size not knowing if I'll be able to use it or not.  Thank goodness for sample sizes!  The Kanebo sale actually includes 3.5g sample of the Lunasol Micro Finish Powder N, I got it in 02 Natural Beige as shown on photo below.

Lunasol Micro Finish Powder N says ---

This finely granulated face powder produces skin that looks so clear, it nearly becomes transparent. Just apply it gently with the puff and the soft granules are absorbed by the skin, giving your complexion moisture and fine texture. It enhances the holding effect of your foundation, staying fresh for hours and maintaining a soft, light clarity. Its blend of treatment ingredients cares for your skin.

Available in 2 shades: 01 Translucent and 02 Natural Beige
Size: 20g

AMW says ---

Pros

• Super gorgeous packaging, both full size and sample size.
• Has a sticker upon purchase for freshness.

• The puff that comes with the product is very soft.  The sample sized puff is too small though, but perfect to use under the eye area.
• Finely milled powder, feels so soft once applied on skin.
• Make-up sets pretty well for the whole day (for dry skinned me).
• Gives a nice "inner glow" that you can't pinpoint.
• No obvious sparkles and does not create white cast on photos.
• A little amount goes a long way!  I still have enough product from the 3.5g sample size.
• Skin feels smooth after application, does not settle in fine lines.

Cons

• Can aggravate dryness if not moisturized well.  Photo below shoes the dry nose area.  I did not apply any moisturizer prior to application.

• Is not visibly available everywhere!
• Loose powder = messy! :) 

Overall

The product applies like a dream and the shade 02 Natural Beige gives out a matte yet soft finish!

Tips

• Choose to use a powder brush for a more translucent finish.
• Use a sponge to gently pat on areas that oil up easily to "set" the make-up.
• Do you have darker skin color?  You can still choose 02 Natural Beige and use a big powder brush to set instead of sponge.
• Do not forget to apply all over your face and neck area!
• Blot off excess oil prior to re-application!  
• Wash the sponge that comes with the product upon opening.
• Applied too much?  Spritz your face with facial mists and the "powder" look will lessen.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone into loose setting powder.  Perfect for oily, combination or normal skin!  Dry skin individuals can use this as long as you moisturize well prior to make-up application.

Where to purchase and how much?

I bought my sample size for Php300.00 (approx $7.00) while full size costs more than Php1,000.  Sorry I did ask but I forgot the exact amount.  You can find them at Kanebo/Lunasol counters at Rustan's.

  A closer look on the finely milled powder

 Applied all over face 

using a mini K-brush (Kabuki Brush)

Have you tried Lunasol Micro Finish Powder N?
What's your skin condition and how did it work for you?
What's a must-try Lunasol Product?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Bulletin: Ask House of Obagi and Win!

Dear Philippine Readers:

How was the rest of your Tuesday?  Mine went a bit slow but I'm glad I survived!  Let's not forget the super hot and humid weather early afternoon then sudden rain late afternoon, the weather is just as crazy as a woman!  *laughs*

Ok, I nearly forget what's the point of this post! (as always) I've seen a contest going around which I think AMW readers would be very interested in!

ASK HOUSE OF OBAGI

and get a chance to win Obagi Professional C Serum 15%

**photo taken from HOO Facebook page

I've seen the wonders of Obagi from beauty blogging friends and I know a lot of you would want to be given the chance to try their product!  The price is steep but I've heard it's worth it!  I hope an AMW reader wins!!! *biased mode* hahaha

LIKE House of Obagi Facebook Fanpage and follow instructions!

Goodluck!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Note from author: I am in no way affiliated with the company, this post is for information purpose.)

AMW Reviews: Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation Primer

With my skin condition, I actually can live without a foundation primer, but because I apply make-up on clients and most of my clients need the help of a primer, I've been purchasing and looking for the best foundation primers in the market!  

I've tested quite a number and Laura Mercier is actually one of those brand names I wanted to try.  As I was going to re-purchase my Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Light which has been out of stock for a couple of months, I've decided to give Laura Mercier a go! 

Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation Primer says ---

• Specifically created for oily, sensitive and acne-prone skin types; oil free
• Contains high water content and addresses surface dehydration around active blemishes
• Oil controlling ingredients ensure long-wear and flawless application
• Vitamins A, C, and E act as antioxidants & protect the skin from harmful, aging effects of the environment
• Cooling Foundation Primer in the refrigerator is refreshing for the skin and reduces puffiness
• Non-comedogenic
• 1.7 fl. oz./50ml

Ingredients

Water (Aqua), Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Stearic Acid, Isodecyl Isononanoate, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate, C22-20 Alcohols, Squalane, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl Esters, Phenoxyethanol, Boron Nitride, Silica, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Allantoin Tocopherol Acetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Hamaelis Viginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Retinyl Palmitate, Dimethicone, Polyamino Sugar Condesate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Chlorphensin, Benzoic Acid, Polysorbate 60, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Saccharomyces/Xylium Black Tea Ferment, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Potassium Sorbate, Green 5 (CI 61570), Yellow 5 (CI 19140). 

AMW says ---

Pros

• Squeeze type packaging, makes it easy to control how much product to dispense.
• Specifically created for oily and acne-prone skin which means the product is gentle.
• Aside from the oil control property, it contains Vitamins A, C and E which acts as antioxidants that protects our skin from make-up and pollution.
• Make-up stays for the whole day, skin looks refreshed. 
• Lightweight.
• No white cast on flash photography.
• No weird scent.
• Doesn't dry out my skin as compared to other oil-free foundation primers.
• Lines aren't emphasized.
  

Cons

• A bit pricey as compared to other foundation primers that are coming out in the market.
• Product only lasts for 6 months upon open. :(  Too fast!

• People who like the "mattifying" feeling won't find this in this primer!  This feels like regular moisturizer.

Overall

The Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation Primer is worth the money in terms of making your make-up stay longer.  It helps skin looks healthy and smooth when you apply make-up on.

What's better between LM and Smashbox?  I would still prefer Smashbox Photo Finish Light for Bridal Clients but on a daily basis, LM works and is gentle on skin! :)

Tips

• Apply skincare before you apply this foundation primer.
• If you use face sunblock, apply sunblock first, leave it and let it absorb for a couple of minutes before you use the foundation primer.
•  Massage a liberal amount all over the face.
• Try to avoid eye area as much as possible.
• For dry or mature skin individuals, you can opt for the Laura Mercier Foundation Primer - Hydrating.
  

Will I repurchase?
Yes, this is my next alternative for Smashbox Photofinish Primer Light.

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone who wants to oil-free foundation primer PLUS the added benefits to heal the skin.  Best for normal to combination skin.  Those with super oily skin may find the oil-control power is not enough.

Where to purchase and how much?
I got mine at Strawberrynet.com for $39.00 (approx Php1,600) free shipping worldwide.

White Liquid that isn't too watery nor creamy, 

just the right texture and gets absorbed into the skin after massage.

Applied tiny amount on hand

A bit of massage and patting,

gets absorbed without any "shine" nor "film-like" texture

Have you tried LM Foundation primers?
What's you're favorite oil-free primer to date?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!