GSL Gives: Smooth Skin in Seconds --- Closed!

Frankly speaking, I am very picky when it comes to contests for my readers.  If the mechanics include doing this and that plus opening up this and that pages, I tend to say "no" to the contest as I love AMW readers so much I want everyone to win as easy as 1! (not 1-2-3!)  *lol*

GoodSkin Labs is an exception!  Let me tell you why....

If you read my GSL products review, most of them, or shall I say ALL of them are a HIT in my dictionary.  Next reason?  My clients can vouch that I really use GSL products!  Especially issues of skin concerns like dryness, wrinkles and a whole lot more of skin issues. 

So, when Rizel reached out to me and asked me if I want to hold this contest for my dear readers?  Without a doubt....YES!

For AMW Readers, you are 3 steps away from winning your very own Smooth-365 tube this September!

Step 1:

Tweet this message between September 22-25, 2011 
"Want to achieve #SmoothSkinInSeconds ? Follow @askmewhats and join our discussion (insert URL of this blog post)."

**please take note that all Tweet Elements in the box above should be incorporated in your tweet.  Other, GSL won't consider your post as valid entry.


Step 2:
Finished tweeting? Head on to Smooth Skin in Seconds topic at GoodSkin Labs Philippines and finish this sentece:

I want to achieve smooth skin in seconds because ... (insert your reason)

**no specific requirement/s in your indicated reason but GoodSkin Labs would love to read creative posts.  (Hint: 3 creative reasons posted under the topic will be given their very own Smooth-365 as well!)

Step 3:

Leave a comment in THIS blog post with the following details:

• Your complete name
• Link to your tweet
• Posted reason at Smooth Skin in Seconds Topic

To make things easy, this is the formula!
Tweet + Reason + Comment = 1 Entry *

*You may however join the contest again under 2 partner bloggers.  This will serve as a separate entry.

TWO Winners will be chosen randomly via random.org.  All winners will be announced on September 30 and will have 48 hours to send their contact information via email.   If the winner/s failed to respond within 2 days after announcement, GSL will be selecting another winner/s.

Disclaimer: The contest is open to Metro Manila residents only.  Winners will be requested to have their prize picked up at GSL office Manila.

Please read instructions so your entry will count! :)

Goodluck!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Tip for the Day: Faking soft, dewy skin!

I have been requested so many times to do a tutorial on creating a fake "glowy", "bright" or "dewy" skin.  I know its easy for me to do such as I have dry skin to start with.  What about our oily gal friends out there?  I've thought of ways and finally done a very simple one that anybody of any age can do!

Keep in mind that practice makes perfect, it helps to try out different products and see which works best for you!  In this tutorial, I am using the simplest and most effective way to date!  Believe it or not, I'm still on trial and error and will definitely share again if I've found a better way.  For now, lets settle for this...shall we begin?

Sorry but there's no other better model than myself!  I can't seem put myself out there and randomly ask for people willing to be my model! *hahaha*  So please do not get tired of my face okay?  If you do...hmm...come here..want cookies? :P

Step 1:

• I moisturized my skin with a light moisturizer.  Oily-skinned individuals can go for oil-free moisturizer.
• Once the moisturizer sets in.  I used a brightening face primer from Benefit's That Gal.  (Other alternatives to try: your choice of sparkly BB cream, tinted moisturizer like Myra Vitaglow Tinted Moisturizer)
• With my Charm stippling brush, I applied a light liquid foundation (like that from Revlon's Photoready Foundation or Paul & Joe Cream Foundation) applying only on areas that needed coverage).

Step 2:

Oily-skinned individuals complain about their face oiling up in no time.  Pick up your favorite oil-control setting powder.  In my case, I am using the Majolica Majorca Pressed Pore Cover  picking up a bit of the product with a K-brush or any powder brush, pat ONLY on areas that oil up (ex. t-zone, sides of the nose) and leave the rest as it is!  Oh, it helps to keep on "pressing" the brush with a bit of the powder on those oily areas and it'll help absorb excess moisture and oil.

Do not forget to bring your favorite oil control films.

Step 3:

Look inside your makeup kit for highlighting powders.  They usually come together with a contouring powder.  If you don't have any, no need to purchase.  Look into your eyeshadow collection and search for a semi-sparkly eyeshadow (can be pressed or loose) that works on your inner corner of the eyes or on the browbone.  If the shade works on those areas, you can use this to highlight your face!

In this tutorial, I am using Bourjois Pastel Lumiere Pearl Eyeshadow in Beige Rose.  The name has rose to it but it is not pinkish at all!

I do own a couple of highlighting powders like the one from Paul & Joe or another white eyeshadow shade from my Eyeko Pretty Eyes Palette.  Be creative and experimental!  What's the worse that could happen?  If all else fails, you can wash your face!

Step 4:

To make your "highlighted" and "dewy"-looking face more obvious, its best to use a bronzer as a blush!  This gives out a super natural, healthy glow!  At the same time, the "glow" from the bronzer can help make your face looks "fresh" and "dewy" at the same time!

Added tips:

• Other people would use Petroleum jelly and apply it on parts of the face to create that "dewy-ness".  In my opinion,  I'd rather have you skip it the tip stated is applicable for countries with winter season!
• If you over applied your powder, fret not, have your moisturizing facial mist ready and spritz all over your face and leave it to dry on its own!  It does not only help set your makeup but it makes your skin look and feel fresh!
• I forgot to take a shot of it, but to add up the "dewy" look, skip heavy lipstick and moisturize your lips with your preferred lip balm and top with a super wet-looking gloss!  (local readers would know this brand but Fashion 21 makes super nice fruity scented clear gloss for less than Php100 and it tastes so good!)

Any other tips you would like to share to our readers?
Feel free to share by clicking the COMMENT section!

Sharing is beautiful!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Avon Extra Lasting Eyeliner (Metallic Black)

Will you kill me if I blog another eyeliner?  If yes... can I make a request?  Don't make it too painful ok? *crossing my fingers*

On a little bit more serious note, this is a different eyeliner review mind you, it was a gel liner a week ago and now I'm on liquid liner!

Do you still remember the last liquid eyeliner I reviewed from Revlon?  I actually "hit the pan" and finished it because I love the applicator so much I tend to use it more often than gel liners, its easier to bring when you travel too!

It was a lovely surprise when I saw Avon came up with a similarly "packaged" liquid liner and I'm game to give it a try!  This time, its not going to be the regular matte black but in "shimmering black".  In Avon's version, it looks a bit "grayish" which makes it even more exciting!   

(I hope you forgot to kill me at this stage! :P)

Avon Extra Lasting Eyeliner says ---

Intense liquid color glies over lids without smudging or fading.

Ingredients: (Click to enlarge)

AMW says ---
Pros

• My favorite liquid eyeliner packaging to date!  (same as the Revlon).
• Very sharp tip, easy to manipulate the brush.

• Short and semi-stiff applicator, it can move a bit as compared to other "felt-tip" applicator.

• The shade Metallic black looks quite natural, you won't see big sparkles.
• The liner can withstand heat and humidity.
• Lasts approximately more than 8 hours on me without fading.
• Inexpensive.

Cons

• Very tricky to apply.
• Not readily available everywhere.  
• Can irritate sensitive eyes especially if you applied on the lower lash line.

Overall 

The shade Metallic Black gives a very natural look for a liquid liner.  On a normal work day you want to have long-lasting eyeliner minus the smudging or fading, this is the perfect liquid liner to use!

I tested this product on extreme condition.  I actually wore this when I did some jogging for an hour.  I may note perspire as much as other people, I like the fact that I came back without the panda eyes.  The Avon Extra Lasting Eyeliner is indeed...lasting! And I don't see any transferring to the lower eye area or smudging!

Tips

• Shake well before use.
• Never apply liquid liner on the waterline.  
• Feel free to apply a thin stroke on the upper and lower lashline.
• Using a liquid liner for the first time?  Draw your preferred eyeliner "look" or "thickness" with an eyeliner pencil and draw the liquid eyeliner on top.  Or..you can draw tiny dots and connect them.
• Feel free to tightline with your favorite eyeliner pencil after application.
• Give a couple of seconds before you completely open your eyes to make sure the liner is completely dry.
• Allergic reactions occur? Stop usage IMMEDIATELY.

Will I repurchase?

Yes.

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone who enjoys the benefits and are comfortable enough to use liquid eyeliners.  

Where to purchase and how much?

Call your Avon ladies for Php250.00 (approx $5.95).

Various lines created with Avon's Extra lasting Eyeliner

in Metallic Black

 

Applied on the upper lash line 

using very light and thin strokes

The effect of Metallic Black shade on upper lashline

Not as dramatic as matte colored liquid eyeliners

Using the same liner, applied thickly on upper and lower lash line 

to define my eyes and make it look a bit bigger!

Have you tried Avon's new extra lasting eyeliner?
What are your thoughts?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Tech Review: Speck iGuy for iPad and iPad2

There's a green-guy winking at me....and Mr. AMW's not even a bit jealous!

Here's why...

He's super adorable!!!

You got that right! One of the new gadget I currently own is an iPad2.  I've been enjoying this gadget so much that I did not get the chance to blog about it yet as there's just so much to say!  Well another reason is, I'm busy playing games and watching my favorite movies!  Everything's just easier with an iPad2.  A more comprehensive review on it will be up in the future, for now, let's get back to the guy who stole my heart!

Speck iGuy says ---

Introducing iGuy - the freestanding foam case for iPad and iPad 2 with tons of personality! Every bit protective as he is a blast to use, iGuy is the perfect iPad accessory for kids and grownups alike. He's lightweight, easy to hold, and he can stand on his own two feet, even while holding up your iPad. 

Dimensions: 2.0" x 15.5" x 9.5"
Weight: 14.97 oz

AMW says ---

Pros

• Just the look of this can make me smile!  
• Soft cover makes it easy to hold.
• The 2 hands of iGuy may be cute to look at but its functional in the sense that I can easily grip my iPad2 without holding onto the product itself.

• iGuy at first glance is super bulky but I find it just right.  It gives the right amount of protection to my prized possession preventing it from damage due to accidental drop or bump.
• All ports and buttons are accessible and fits perfectly!

• Though the arm of iGuy is a bit too flexible for my taste, it doesn't tear or create wrinkles.  It goes back to its original shape.
• I'm not sure if its just me but the sounds of my iPad2 is louder with the iGuy on!
• Since the iGuy has legs, I find it easier to watch my favorite YouTube videos, play games with it on my lap as it's "higher".

Ok, I watch most of the Keroro Gunso episodes here!
(yes, I know, they are for kids but I enjoy watching them!)

• Priced reasonably!  I've seen other iPad cases and they can even get more expensive than this and the protection isn't as good.

Cons

•  I want more colors available!  Would love it if they have this in red!
• Since I love playing Words with Friends, its on a portrait mode.  iGuy can't stand on "portrait" mode.
• A bit too bulky to carry around when you go out.  Not unless you have kids around for an excuse :P
• Putting the iPad2 in is a bit too difficult for me, my screen-protector almost peeled!  (I must be super amateur on  handling an iPad).

Overall

It all started when I'm always feeling sleepy after just an hour of watching my favorite shows.  After I used the Speck iGuy for my iPad/iPad2, I am more relaxed and I am actually looking forward to use my iPad2!  Okay, correct me if I'm wrong, I must put this on the "CON" portion as I'm sleeping as late as 2:00am every night as I don't feel much strain on my eyes!  

This thing may look childish but believe me when I say --- it's a must if you prefer to keep your iPad at home!

Tips

• Though all sides of the iPad are protected with the iGuy, the screen portion isn't so I suggest to put a protective "laptop bag" or "foam" on top during storage to prevent accident.
• Wipe your iGuy every now and then with damp wash cloth to prevent it from getting dirty!  The neon colors are cute when they're clean!

Will I repurchase?
I doubt you'll need to repurchase if you own one as this will last you a long time!  Very durable and only "Tazmanian devil" can destroy this! *lol*

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who owns an iPad or iPad2 and likes to watch movies, videos or play games at the comfort of their home.

Best if you have an iPad/iPad2 for your kids!  Gives nice protection.

Where to purchase and how much?

Reasonably priced at Php1,450.00 (approx $33.70) available at the following stores: Beyond The Box, Digital Hub, Digital Hub-CDO, Digital Walker, E-Central-Cebu, Gui - Davao, iCenter-Cebu, iCenter-Davao, iCenter- Iloilo, Inbox Store, Power Hub-Davao, Power Mac Center, Sencolink, Switch, Technoholics and The A-Shop.

I wouldn't mind spending a bit on protection for a pricey gadget.
How about you? What's your cute gadget protection lately?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Human Nature 100% Natural Lip Balm

One of the most requested brand to review --- Human Nature.

I've read and heard nothing but raves about the 100% proudly Philippine-made products.  Its time I dip my hands onto this one and share to you my thoughts!

Human Nature 100% Natural Lip Balm says ---

Human Nature's 100% Natural Lip Balm is mineral-oil free, silicone-free, petrolatum-free and paraffin-free, letting your lips breathe and be oh-so-moisturized.  

Now contains Cocoa butter to help give a smoother, softer glide. 

Available in 3 flavors: Tutti Frutti, Peppermint and Choco Fudge.

Ingredients:

Net wt.: 0.14oz or 4 g.

AMW says ---
Pros

• Super cute, simple packaging that's loaded with information!
• Expiration date clearly stamped on each product.

• Very inexpensive for 100% natural product.
• The product does contain other forms of "waxes" so there is a tiny waxy feel but it doesn't sit on top of the lips but it gets absorbed by the lips!
• The peppermint flavor gives a very nice, cooling sensation on lips perfect for really dry and chapped lips like mine!
• The scent is not overwhelming.
• Glides on lips easily.
• Goes on clear yet lips looked obviously better after application.
• Can be used underneath lipstick without making it glide off.
• The lip balm does not have weird taste and I can lick my lips without any issues.
• PROUDLY PHILIPPINE-MADE!

Cons

• None

Overall

Seriously speaking, for a lip balm priced less than Php100.00, I would expect it to be crappy  but its such a lovely surprise to say, the product is worth even above Php100.00!   The fact that 100% natural ingredients are used minus the harmful ones, I am very confident in licking my lips knowing the ingredients I ingested are all natural and won't harm my body!

Tips

• Try to wipe the top portion of the balm with a clean tissue after every use.
• If you experience super dry or windburned lips, apply this even beyond the lip line, it helps heal and soothes the pain.
• Always store in cool, dry place.
• Never share your lip balms, if needed, use a lip brush.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who's looking for inexpensive lip balm that works!

Where to purchase and how much?

Available at Rustans, Shopwise and Beauty Bar for selected line of Human Nature products or call (632) 931-5787 to know your nearest Human Nature dealer.  This costs Php69.75 (approx $1.66).

International readers can also checkout their website.

A closer look on Human Nature 

100% Natural Lip Balm

 

Have you tried Human Nature 100% Natural Lip Balm?
Do you like it as much as I do?
What other Human Nature products worth giving a try?
I'd love to hear from you!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

 

About the company:

Human Nature is a fast-growing, trail-blazing natural & organic consumer goods company operating as a social enterprise and driven by the core philosophy of PRO-PHILIPPINES, PRO-POOR and PRO-ENVIRONMENT. Founded in November 2008 by Anna Meloto-Wilk and Camille Meloto, daughters of Gawad Kalinga founder Tony Meloto, Human Nature’s products are 100% made in the Philippines and 100% free from harmful chemicals.