AMW Reviews: Benefit Bathina Take a Picture...It lasts

The first fashion show that I witnessed was in college when we purchased a ticket to support our dear friend.  Once my friend walked down the runway, I had my mouth wide open as his skin (yes, he's a dude!) and so were the rest of the models were glowing in an unexplainable way!  From then on, when I got into makeup artistry, the image was always on top of my head as I want to recreate the same effect for my clients.  What must it be?

When it comes to "body" makeup, I have my own stash of "shimmer" powders that works for the body with just a sweep of my huge powder brush!  But my "stash" won't ever match the "image" I had in mind!  It haunted me for years!

When Benefit Cosmetics arrived in the Philippines, one product that I haven't taken notice of is called Bathina.  ME? I already have gorgeous legs to start with, why would I need it?  (just joking!)  The truth is, I'm low maintenance when it comes to my body (that explains my extreme skin dryness) but when I had my Brow Bar experience, I had enough time on hand to reach out for Benefit Bathina and tried on their tester.  VOILA!  I went home with it!  (not the tester of course! LOL)

Benefit says ---

This sheer, glimmering body balm adds a seductive golden-pink sheen to legs and body. It's pure body luxury! Comes complete with Bathina's velvet puff for a smooth application.

42.5g  Net wt. 1.5 oz.

Ingredients:









AMW says ---
Pros

• Super cute "tin can" packaging.
• Doesn't feel heavy on skin. Works even for our weather.
• Smells really good!
• Gives a nice, shiny glow but not fake!
• Works on all skin tones.
• Can be used all over the body.
• Gives an unexplainable glow in photos or in person.
• Long-lasting.
• Easy to bring even on travel.
• Can minimize the appearance of scars.

Cons

• Price.
• May take a bit of practice for the right effect.  

Overall

This body balm is long lasting, smells great and can be used all over arms, legs and décolletage.  Gives a golden pink glow without the sparkles or obvious shimmers.

Tips
from Benefit

• For glimmering results, apply evenly with velvet puff. 
• To accentuate the glow, buff in a circular motion.

from AMW

• It would be great if you have your legs shaved (if needed) as this may enhance the leg hairs. 
• I prefer using the puff for personal use and for clients, I use a wedge sponge to apply on arms and legs (if necessary).
• Apply at least 2-3 layers for photography makeup.  The effect isn't obvious in person but it gives a nice "unexplainable glow" on photos.
• Since this is still considered "makeup", wash them off at night before going to bed.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Brides-to-be, models who are always on photos and of course, regular "Janes" like you and me who wants healthy-looking, glowing skin!

Where to purchase and how much?
At local Benefit counters for Php1,600.00 (approx $40.00). LIKE Benefit Cosmetics Philippines on Facebook to get updated on Sales and events.  At Benefit international website for $28.00 (without tax)

Photos

Manufactured date printed on box

Benefit Bathina is housed in a slimmer tin can which makes it easy for travel.

Includes the body balm and a sponge for application.

Closer look on pan.

Golden pink shade without obvious sparkles.

The sponge comes with a nice ribbon holder for ease of application.

I used the Benefit Bathina on American Ring Girl Model Arianny Celeste for a Print shoot.  I applied the body balm all  over her arms and legs including her décolletage.

Would you give Benefit Bathina Take a Picture...It lasts a try?
I actually enjoy using this product on clients and would use this on myself only on special occasions.

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AMW Reviews: Avon Bright Eyes Shadow Stick in Black Diamond

If you are a fan of MAC Shadesticks but felt it's a bit too pricey for you, well, aren't we glad there are more and more alternatives out there?

Avon finally created an eyeshadow stick for people on the budget!  There were only 2 shades available but I was able to give the Black Diamond Shade a try! 

 

Smile and click HERE on how I used my Avon Bright Eyes Shadow Stick.

Avon says ---
Draw attention to your beautiful eyes, and stand out in a crowd with unexpected shades.  This cream shadow pencil delivers brilliant color and blends easily.  It is a bold eyeshadow and eyeliner in one, creamy, vibrant stick.  Plus it's fade-proof and crease-proof.

Available shades: Black Diamond and Purple Star

AMW says ---
Pros

• Cute, click type packaging.  No sharpening needed.
• Shade is pigmented and creamy.
• Black Diamond has a nice metallic finish.
• No glitters.
• Gives a vibrant look to any eyeshadow.
• Indeed fade-proof.
• Easy to use. 
• Multi-purpose: Can be used as eyeshadow base or liner.  
• Price.

Cons

• I'm not sure if this is the case for all of their eyeshadow sticks but mine doesn't twist back down.
• Only 2 shades available.  It would be great to find a blue, green or gold version.
• Will crease if you do not use an eyeshadow primer.

Overall

An easy to use eyeshadow/eyeliner sticks for people on the go and people on the budget!  This product is much pigmented and has a nice metallic sheen that doesn't transfer.  This product WILL crease if you suffer from oily lids so using a good eyeshadow base underneath is recommended.

Tips

• You can choose to use this product as is and blend with your fingers or brush or use this as an eyeshadow base.
• For a very simple smoky eye makeup look, apply the product all over lid and blend.
• Even if you do not suffer from oily-lids (like me), I like to use an eyeshadow primer underneath as I feel safer that way! 
• To create different eye makeup looks, apply different shades of powdered eyeshadow on top of Black Diamond.  Be creative!
• If you plan to use this as a liner, gently apply the Avon Bright Eyes Shadow Stick close to your lash line with short strokes for a more natural finish.
• If you prefer to apply Black Diamond on your lower lash line, set it with a translucent powder or a  powdered eyeshadow.

Will I repurchase?
Not for myself but will recommend to people on a budget.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Girls who don't suffer from super oil lids and would love to enhance the pigmentation of their eyeshadow or wear this on its own.

Where to purchase and how much?

Php179.00 (approx $4.25). Simply Pretty Bright Eyes Shadow Stick is available exclusively through Avon Representatives nationwide.  Log on to www.avon.com.ph to find out how to contact your Avon Rep.  Follow them on Facebook and Twitter (@AvonPH).

Photos

 You get a well sealed Avon Bright Eyes Shadow Stick upon purchase.

 

Swatch of Black Diamond without base.

In my case, twisting back the Avon Bright Eyes Shadow Stick is not possible

 so I had to use my finger in gently pushing it back.

Cream based eyeshadow is tricky to apply (especially dark colored ones).  So take time to apply them on your lid going a bit beyond the crease.  NEVER apply all over as the effect would be dirty. 

What are some shadow sticks you've used and enjoyed?
So far, I enjoyed using my MAC Shadestick in Beige-ing and Sharkskin,  The Body Shop Kajal Liners,  Tony Moly Crystal Stick Eyeshadow and the Sephora Crayon Jumbo 12H Jumbo Line and of course, who would forget our NYX Jumbo Pencils?

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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

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

Readers' Corner: My Must-Try Liquid Eyeliners

Great Wednesday AMW friends!

One of the most asked question on my "Ask Me" page is the topic of liquid liner!  A lot of you love the effect of liquid liner but felt the need to know which liquid liner is good plus works on our humid weather!

In today's readers' corner, I have picked my top 4 liners that I use (to date).  I alternate these liners depending on my mood and so far, these liners have done a great job and because of that, they deserve a huge applause because I finished them all up! 

Left to right: (please click product name for past reviews)

• Revlon ColorStay Liquid Liner - I highly recommend this eyeliner to first time liquid-liner users.  Why?  Because of its stiff brush that makes it easier to control.  The effect will always be thicker than soft bristled eyeliner brush and light hand application will always be highly recommended!
• K-Palette 24H Real Lasting Eyeliner Waterproof - A great liner for someone who can't seem to control the amount of product you want to dispense.  The K-Palette 24H Real Lasting Eyeliner Waterproof dispenses perfect amount of liner every time.  The brush is perfectly shaped making it easy to create the liner shape you want whether thick or thin.
• Maybelline HyperSharp Liner - Another wonderful liquid liner that dispenses product by itself.  The brush is very thin and precise so I prefer to pick this up if I want a very thin liner that goes very close to my lash line.  Also tested its waterproof, smudge-proof ability and it passed!  Great job for a drugstore brand!
• Majolica Majorca Perfect Automatic Liner - This was actually one of the first "click type" liquid liner that I got and it takes some practice to finally get the hang of it!  What I love about this brand is the availability of different shades and it has a black colored base making the colors look not-black yet black (confusing) at the same time!  This product is also tested to stay on your lids the whole day unless you rub your eyes.  It may disappear but never smudge!

So far, that's my simplest list as of the moment as I base it on products that I personally use!  These liners are also recommended even as professional makeup artist but I prefer to use liquid liners for myself for hygiene reasons.

Can you add more of the "Must-Try Liquid Eyeliners" list?
Tell us the brand (and price if possible) and your experience using it!

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Estee Lauder Pure Color Nail Lacquer in Narcissist Review

Since we're on the topic of Estee Lauder today.  Let me share to you my most recent nail polish that I'm not afraid to try (had them on my toenails at the moment) as the polish is 4-Free (including formaldehyde resin).

 

Estee Lauder says ---

Turn your fingertips into fashion statements with a wardrobe of sensational shades to add definition, polish, and style to your fingertips.

Designed by Tom Pecheux, world-renowned makeup artist and Estée Lauder Creative Makeup Director.

Tom combined today's top trends with timeless classics-all the colors he prefers for photo shoots and fashion shows.

Formulated with True Vision™ technology to transform ordinary color and make it extraordinary.  Rich, glossy with an intense, mirror-like high shine.

AMW says ---
Pros

• Gorgeous square bottle that sits perfectly on my nail polish collection case.
• Wonderful shades available.
• Comes in different shades for the collection (Beyond Black and Metal Mania, Red Hautes and Heavy Petals collection).
• The cap is long enough to handle polish application and of course, nail art.
• Brush is flat and wide and the bristles are easy to use.  No streaks on EVERY application.
• Dries up in a good amount of time.
• High gloss and shine, I can skip top coat application (since I'm unsure how safe my top coat is).
• Wore this shade for a week and wore closed shoes most of the time and so far it didn't chip.

Cons

• Price.
• A bit difficult to roll the polish bottle between your hands due to its bottle shape. 
• Collection available at limited time.

Overall
Great viscosity, pigmentation is very good and can be applied even 1 coat.  Has a good amount of shine even without top coat and best of all?  It's 4-Free!  (Most polishes safe for pregnant women are free from Big-3)

Tips

• Store in cool, dry place.
• Never shake polish bottle rigorously, try to roll them on your palms instead.
• Never apply polish in front of a fan.
• Do not apply nail polish in an enclosed room.  Use face mask if necessary.
• For polish to last longer, always use a good base and top coat.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!
I know this is a bit pricey as compared to other polish brands but for someone who's into polish and is pregnant, I don't mind spending a couple more just to feel pretty.  I researched about the polish ingredients online and checked with my OB and got a go signal!


To whom do I recommend this to?
Nail polish lovers!

Where to purchase and how much?
At local Estee Lauder counters for Php900.00 (approx $21.40).

Photos

Estee Lauder Pure Color Nail Lacquer

in Narcissist

Flat brush makes it very easy to apply polish even on first time users!

Swatch

top: 2 coats

bottom: 1 coat

both looks the same as pigmentation is really good!

Like Estee Lauder - Philippines on Facebook for more updates.
Call Estee Lauder counters to check availability of the Estee Lauder New PureColor Nail Lacquer Collection.


Do you like the color Narcissist?
Though I own a lot of pink polishes! I love how dainty this color look!  Reminds me of cotton candy!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

 

Unboxing my November Glamourbox

Happy Monday everyone!  How was the long weekend for our Philippine based readers?  I had a lovely weekend spending time with my family and of course, I was back to doing makeup for the busy December month and I am so happy to get to prettify clients once again!  

If you are a beauty blog reader, you have definitely came across fellow beauty bloggers unboxing their November Glamourbox, well, as for me, I was a bit late but I'm still happy I get the chance to take a peek at the first box as I'm sure a lot of you are probably on "decision-making" stage on which beauty box subscription to purchase!  Isn't it nice to take a peek at other people's box and from there it is definitely easier to make a decision!

Glamourbox promised to bring beauty innovations from all over the map.  Once you subscribe, you will receive a gorgeous (reusable) box with five deluxe beauty samples from premium, boutique and niche brands delivered to your doorstep!  (Mine was delivered via Xend Express and I don't have any issues with this courier service.)

Okay, before all the babbling, let me share to you my Glamourbox November box!  Most of you probably knew the contents by heart but I'm glad there was a tiny bit of change in one of the product and it was a star product for me inside the box!

Housed in a gorgeous, very sturdy, white box that I plant o reuse to put my makeup or accessories inside my drawer.

TADA!

At first glance I was overwhelmed with brands that I wasn't familiar with

 (considering I'm a beauty blogger and I do online research on beauty products --- a lot!) 

 What's inside the box?

• Eye of Horus Mascara (Php1,290.00 Full size)
• Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist 24 Night Cream (sample size)
• Yves Rocher Slimming Action Concentrate (sample size)
• Ofra Cosmetics Lipstick Palette (Php1,050 Full size)
• Bvlgari Omnia Amethyste (sample size)
• Calvin Klein Eternity Aqua (sample size)
• Bvlgari Man (sample size)
• Burberry Sport (sample size)
• Bonus: 1 x Php200.00 off gift cert for Yves Rocher for every Php1,000 minimum purchase.

 Ofra Cosmetics Lipstick Palette (Full size)

 This brand is new to me.  Made in the USA with an array of clear, light pink, dark pink, burgundy, orange tone, light brown and dark brown shades to match any outfit or in my case, I prefer lip palettes with a lip brush for clients!

 Eye of Horus Mascara (full size)

This mascara is made in Taiwan and prides how they are naturally formulated int he style of the ancient Egyptians with plant based ingredients.

  

Yves Rocher Slimming Action Concentrate (sample size)

 Will not be able to use this for now but I'm sure my sister would love to use this anti-cellulite slimming solution with the power of green coffee to smooth and tone her skin!  I hope she likes it!

Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Night Cream (Sample Size)

This is my ultimate favorite product in this box as I have tried Shiseido skincare products when I was working in Shenzhen years ago and because I'm on a tight budget so I had to purchase sample size of these in Bonjour and Sasa shops in Hong Kong!  This sample size costs around Php200-300 depends on conversion rate so the box is definitely worth it!

If you think what I got is worth it and you would like to subscribe to your own Glamourbox for the month of December, follow the simple steps below.

Visit www.glamourbox.com.ph to register, join their community on Facebook and Twitter (GlamourboxPH).

How do you like the contents of my November Glamourbox?
Have you subscribed with any beauty boxes that are locally available? 

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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

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