AMW Reviews: Tarte Amazonian 12-hour Blush in Blissful

I have this thing for blush as long as I can remember!  My first few blush purchases decades ago were from a local brand calleds called Fashion 21 and Aido.  At present, I still look up to those 2 brands as I grew up with them and used them long before I get to earn my own money to buy Maybelline, L'Oreal etc... Don't get me wrong, at present, I still like both brands in terms of blush and I wouldn't mind using them!  It's just that, they do not have a lot of shades to choose from and, me and my sister have hit the pan on most of their shades! 

As makeup brands are popping out like mushrooms, I find myself having fun trying on different brands and I try my best not to repeat the same blush shade on 2 consecutive days!  Before you raise one eyebrow, come on!  I'm sure I'm not alone on this! :P

Who reads Jenn's blog called www.frmheadtotoe.com?  I do!  If you're a loyal reader of her blog, you'll probably associate her to her favorite Tarte Amazonian 12-hour Blush!  The name of the blush  itself intrigued me!  For someone with dry skin, I can't seem to find a powdered blush that lasts me more than 8 hours!

Is Tarte Amazonian 12-hour Blush a hit or miss?

Tarte product shade on trial:

 Blissful

Tarte says ---

These solar-baked blushes are infused with Amazonian Clay, nature's most perfect ingredient. These nutrient rich and skin-nourishing Amazonian clay blushes restore harmony for a flawless finish that lasts all day.

The soft blush is great for all skin types:

Oily skin: Amazonian clay minimizes oil in and around pores to balance skin and keep product in place  Dry skin: Amazonian clay hydrates skin naturally to restore moisture so your blush wears better & longer  Dull skin: Amazonian clay improves the appearance of skin clarity and skin texture  Combination skin: Amazonian clay is completely intuitive; gives skin an overall smooth & even appearanc

8 Shades: (as taken from Tarte website)

Ingredients

Product info

AMW says ---

Pros

• Nicely packaged.  Mirror that comes with the packaging is very useful!   
• Good for all skin types.
• Nice pattern that puts a smile on my face every time I use this.

• Gentle on skin.  This product doesn't have paraben, mineral oil, phthalates and other harmful ingredients that may cause breakouts.
• Perfect matte that doesn't dry out skin.  The surprising fact even though this is a matte blush, it gives an overall sheen or glow.
• Stays all day!
• Super pigmented.
• Works on light to dark skin tone. (If applied in a right way)
• As a makeup artist, I appreciate the fact that this can be depotted so I can put this in a palette.

Cons

• At first glance, the price!
• Not widely available in the local market. 

Overall

The name Blissful sounds like a perfect shade for "Bridal Makeup" and guess what?  It is!  Blissful  is a nice coral, peachy-pink matte blush that lasts until you remove it!  This is the type of blush that works on most skin tone as it gives a peachy and pink vibe at the same time.  Even with matte finish, the blush surprisingly gives a nice sheen over your cheeks thus creating a "happy" vibe.

Tips

• For light to light medium skin tone, apply using light hand with a big fluffy brush or fan brush.
• For medium to dark skin tone, apply using a smaller powder brush and add more for the color to show up.
• If you want this blush to stay longer, feel free to use a similar shade of cream blush underneath for the blush to stay even longer.
• Always start by smiling and applying the blush a third away from the each sides of the nose then blend upwards toward hairline.
• If you applied too much, don't fret!  Use a clean powder brush or kabuki brush and blend the brush blurring out heavy pigmentation.
• Afraid to apply blush on top of acne?  Correct and conceal the spots well, set with setting powder then gently apply the blush using big, fluffy brush with super light-hand.
• If some of the concealer were gone after blush application thus showing your "spots", feel free to spot conceal it then gently tap the concealed area with the blush using an eyeshadow brush.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes to use a blush that lasts long and safe for sensitive skin.

Where to purchase and how much?
Available at Stuff in Style online site for Php1,200 (approx $27.90).

Photos

Blissful is a warm peach blush shade as mentioned on website 

but I can't help but see a hint of pink to it once applied on my NC20-25 skin.

Applied on cheeks with a fan brush for natural look

Overall look using
Tarte Amazonian 12-hour Blush in Blissful

What's your favorite Tarte product?

Please LIKE AskMeWhats on Facebook 

Follow AskMeWhats on Twitter 

Get "photo-updated" on Instagram (search "AskMeWhats")

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(Product received for review.  Opinions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

How To Create Bigger-Looking Eyes

Happy day!  Let me share you some of the mails I received recently! Okay, just the gist!  A lot of you have been requesting me to do video tutorials or start my own YouTube channel (why, thank you!).  Unfortunately, with my super hectic schedule (Mr. AMW calls me kiti-kiti as I have a lot on my tiny plate!) so creating a video is far from my thoughts for now!  Maybe..when I turned 60?  Come on!  Promise you'll still be here to watch "Wrinkly-AMW"!  *knocks on wood*  *shakes off thought*  It's not gonna happen!  *grabs eye cream*

For now, the best I can do is to create helpful tips and tutorials through photos!  I know videos are way more easier to follow but I'll try to make these photo tutorials as simple and as clear as possible!  This special post, I call... "This is How I Do It" (everybody move it..to the left to the right...)  Whoever can sing along this song...ahm...you're cool!  :P  (The song is actually called This is How WE Do It.) 

Makeup is a very powerful tool!  A lot of you knew that by now and that's probably the reason why you read my blog!  I've seen transformations (big and small) done by using certain makeup and the AMW-style will always be the easier and simpler version!  I know there are hundreds and thousands of tutorials out there on how to change the shape of your eyes!  But on regular days, who would want to spend an hour in front of the mirror?  *looks around*  I don't know about you but definitely NOT ME!  

Today, to jump start this exciting segment, I'm sharing the simplest steps I've learned through the years on how to create rounder-looking eyes!  This is best for Asian eyes or people who would like to create bigger-looking eyes.

AYE?  AYE!

Let's begin...
Your choice between gel liners, liquid liners, cream liners or pencil liners.  In this tutorial, I used Kate Gel Eye Liner in Black.

Some more products you may need ---

AMW Reviews: Ansley Flash Eye Color Stick

Happy Monday AMW friends!  Can you believe it's already mid-July?  Time flew by pretty quickly and this is a reminder for everyone to please SEIZE every single day!  I used to dwell on tiny problems so much and waste time worrying about little things that doesn't even matter today!  I know there are moments I crumble and problems eat me up!  But I'm happy to say, the 80% of me already knew the secret to happiness!  It's holding each day close to your heart and treasure every moment and experience it as we can NEVER turn back time! I never forget to tell the people I love how much I appreciate them and love them though I may not be physically there.  So yes, it's easy to frown and curse the easy target --- Monday!  But before we do, let's just give ourselves a moment, think how lucky we are as we get to read blogs, to understand what we're reading (as we are lucky enough to have education), and to have friends and family who listen to our stories, laugh and cry with us through the good and bad times! :)

I know I'm being melodramatic here.  The reason for such behavior is because I was reminded of the day I lost our dearest Pudding (our Pomeranian dog), the family mourned over it but we were able to survive the sadness and on to the good part (there's always good news after a bad one!) We finally found a new baby --- Chin Chin!!!  I'm so excited to get to know our li'l baby pup!  As early as I now, I can tell she's a sweetheart!  (You can follow my Instagram "AskMeWhats" and you'll see a photo of our newly adopted puppy!)

Okay, I'm stopping myself from being a preacher and start doing what AMW is good at!  A product review for my Ansley Flash Eye Color Stick in Pure White! 

It's a jumbo liner pencil that can be used as eyeliner, eyeshadow base and highlighter!

Ansley says ---

Ansley New York Flash Eye Color Stick definitely gives a soft feeling and one touch eye make up expression.  It spreads smoothly, adheres well on skin and maintain lustrous, crease-free finish giving an accentuate dimension and brilliant luster to the eyes.

The waterproof eye color stick does not smudge even with water or sweat. It expresses the amazing color with once drawing. In addition, the Natural Vegetable Oil and Vitamin E are the lasting moisturizing factor.

Shades available: 

• #1 Star Gray - stylish smoky color
• #2 Pure Pink - lovely cute pink, eye zone highlighting
• #3 Pure White - shining color expression, eye zone and "t" zone highlighting
• #4 Apple Green  - fresh light green color

AMW says ---

Pros

• Very easy to use.
• Pure White color is multi-functional.  I use these on waterline, brow bone, inner corners of the eyes and cheekbones for instant highlighting.  This product can also give your eye shadows a nice "3D" effect if used as base.
• A nice retouching pencil that can be brought anywhere. (Even during travel)
• Glides smoothly. 
• Pigmented.
• No allergic reactions.

Cons

• Need to wait for shipping.
• Pencil type liner, sharpening is needed and since the size of this pencil is bigger than regular pencil, you would need a special sized pencil sharpener for this.
• If you're looking for a plain matte white pencil, this isn't for you.
• More shade choices would even be better!
• The exterior of the pencil looks exactly like the Ansley New York Flash Lip Color Stick which may need me to open each of the cap to get the right product!  Kindly read tip below on how to make your life easier!  :)
• If applied on waterline, the product may be gone after an hour or 2.

Overall

These jumbo color sticks reminded me so much of the NYX Jumbo Eye Pencils!  These are indeed pigmented, creamy and easy to use!

Tips

• I can use the Ansley Flash Eye Color Stick Pencil in Pure White alone all over my eyelids, very oily-lidded individuals may need to apply a primer prior to pencil application to prevent creasing.
• If you want to create a "doll-like" eye makeup, use a white pencil on the waterline to exaggerate the size of your eyes.  If you prefer a more subtle shade, go for a beige or cream-colored pencil!  Pure Pink may work better.
• If you own several shades including the Lip Color Stick, I strongly suggest to label the exterior of the pencil with stickers or apply a "similar nail polish shade" on the tip of the cap to avoid confusion.
• If you have very sensitive eyes, apply the product closer to the waterline instead to the waterline itself to prevent irritations and also keep the liner last longer as it doesn't get wet as compared to applying on the waterline.
• If you prefer to use this product on the eye area, keep the rest of your face matte.  Applying too much may make you look like a walking disco-ball!
  

Will I repurchase?
Not for now.  I only need a Pure White eye color stick and so far this will last me long.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone comfortable with online shopping and those who wanted a creamy pencil that's waterproof and multi-tasking.

Where to purchase and how much?
At Glow and Glamour website for $7.90 (approx Php340.00) + Shipping.  Check my code given by the company below especially for AMW readers to get 10% off.

If you plan to order from Glow and Glamour website, feel free to use the Glow and Glamour coupon code specially for AMW readers (AF280291458).  Less 10% on all products in store!

Product photos

Ansley Flash Eye Color Stick in 03 Pure White 

Clearly labeled at the bottom of the pencil.

A quick swatch without base.

As you can see on photo, there's a hint of white glitter to it.

The glitter isn't as chunky and does not irritate my eyes.

Applied very close to the waterline to create larger looking eye.

If I like to create a fake 8-hour sleep, I like applying a tiny bit of the Ansley Flash Eye Color Stick in Pure White on the inner corner of the eye and blend using my fingers.

On those I used a boring matte colored eyeshadow, I brighten up the whole eye makeup by applying Pure White on the brow bone and again, blend using my fingers.

Here's how my eyes look with Ansley Flash Eye Color Stick in Pure White

applied on the brow bone, near the waterline and the inner corner of my eye.

Glow and Glamour Facebook page has an ongoing contest!  Anyone can join so please head on to their Facebook page and follow directions!   The winner gets to win products shown on photo below.

**photo taken from Glow and Glamour

Do you use white eye pencil to create brighter-looking eyes?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(Product sent for review.  Reviews 100% mine.  Code generated for the purpose of discount, I am not affiliated nor paid by the company.)

Weekend Food Tripping at: Genya Tonkotsu Ramen

Sometimes, I like driving to Mr. AMW's office and surprise him!  And the best of all?  The quick stop at random restaurants within the area before we head home!  One of the highly recommended restaurant was a nearby Japanese restaurant called Genya Tonkotsu Ramen. 

Once we stepped in the restaurant, there was a feeling of familiarity and we immediately felt at home!  I took a quick look at their menu and the choices aren't confusing!  The restaurant's name says it all!  They're Ramen dishes were highly recommended by the servers and of course, you can always try their  non-noodle dishes.  Check out their menu HERE.

Chashu-men

Original ramen + chashu

Php270.00 (approx $6.30)

The bowl came in huge but the content wasn't overwhelming --- that's the only downside.  The soup was very tasty and flavorful and the noodles were cooked just right!  The Chashu (slices of roasted pork) was very tender and it almost melts into my mouth. 

You can also browse their "Additional Toppings" section and the Ajitsuke Tamago caught Mr. AMW's eyes!  Ajitsuke Tamago is a seasoned, soft-boiled egg that is limited to 50 servings PER day.  It was around 6:00pm when we dined here and so far, we were still within the 50th servings!

Tofu with Minced Meat Don

Php160.00 (approx $3.70)

Don't judge me for ordering tofu with minced meat in a Japanese restaurant!  *pouts*  In my defense, I was really craving for one and I was intrigued how they would serve it!  Well, I wasn't expecting the dish to look ahm..this boring!  Taste wise?  It was so-so.  Maybe, I was expecting for fried tofu topped with minced pork and sauce!  (Top of my list: Tofu with Minced Pork at Luk Foo.)

We also tried their Red Iced Tea for Php35.00 (less than $1.00).

The restaurant may seem boring and quiet but looks can be deceiving!  They have Bikkuri Ramen Challenge!  

What's a Bikkuri Ramen Challenge? 

A challenger must finish a 2,500g bowl of Bikkuri Ramen (seafood ingredients) in 25 minutes and this Php1,000 (approx $23.25) Ramen will be yours for free!  Aside from that, you get to have your photo taken and posted on the wall! 

I've seen the huge bowl and I've seen how much ingredients they put inside this bowl!  I won't dare try this!  Will you?

The restaurant only accepts cash payment so please make sure to have cash on hand when you decide to dine in here!  The restaurant also has a space for solo diners located at the center!

Genya Tonkotsu Ramen

Hobbies of Asia, Macapagal Blvd.

Pasay City, Metro Manila

What's your favorite Ramen Place?  

Any other recommendations for Mr. & Mrs. AMW?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
Enjoy your food! :)

I Wonder: "Do You Take Care of your Feet?"

Good morning my dearies!  Today, I will be prettifying some gorgeous girls and I'm hoping to do a great job! Wish me luck!

Let's get personal this weekend!  Let me share to you how I show my love aside from saying "I Love You" or giving hugs to people I love.  I give facials and foot massages!  *laughs*  Back then when facial mask sheets weren't readily available, I would go to Watsons and purchase the powdered version, mix it with water then apply them on my mom's, sister's and even brother's face!  Bonding moments via home version of facials plus a foot relaxing session is an almost weekly thing that I look forward to!  I even have a tiny basket to house my foot soak, foot scrub, foot lotion etc...  that's how much I love my family at the latter part, I realized something --- I am meant to work in a SPA!  *laughs*

"You don't know a good massage until I show you!"  *winks*  (That's me being extra conceited!  Pagbigyan niyo na!)  hehehe

It has been awhile since my last "service" to my mom!  So when I got Snoe Happy Heels set, I called my mom immediately and said: "Guess what? You've won a free foot massage service!  Get ready to relax!!!"  It left my mom dumbfounded as she didn't join any contests!  Oh well, that's what she gets for having me as her daughter! Swerte niya no? (Isn't she lucky?) :P

My mom, one of the most selfless person I know, dislikes it when I do "labor" services, she worries so much that I would get tired!  I always tell her the tiny little foot massages I give her are NOTHING compared to the way she took care of me for 3 decades! 

Did you know that?

A good massage can help lower blood pressure, relaxes the mind and prevents depression? (That's what I read based on research!) :)

Snoe Happy Heels

Cherry Berry 

  "Make an important appointment with yourself

 to use Happy Heels Foot Whitening Spa Kit 

and you'll be sporting jolly, happy 'soles' in no time."

 

Includes ---

Foot Soak, Foot Scrub, Foot Blush Spray and Foot Lotion

Snoe Happy Heels by the way was gifted to me and so far, I love the scent and it does soften the calluses on the heel area and the Foot Blush Spray is divine!  It creates sexy-looking feet in an instant!   The Happy Heels Therapy Set costs Php349.00 (approx $8.10).  Also available in Peppermint Tea scent.

Recently, I realized something about myself.  I enjoy purchasing and collecting "foot therapy sets" but never gave my own feet some loving!  *embarrassed*

So today, I wonder ....
"Do you take care of your feet?"
What products do you use?
Like Snoe Beauty Inc. on Facebook for information on how to purchase and more product offerings!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!