Friday, February 8, 2013

AMW Reviews: Bobbi Brown Eyelash Curler

Eyelash curler, well, they don't expire easily as compared to makeup but I don't know why I have this urge to collect as much eyelash curlers as I can!  Please, tell me I'm not alone!

Over the years, I have purchased and repurchased Shu Uemura Eyelash Curlers as I have 2 for myself and 2 for work!  As I meet clients with different eye shapes and sizes, I've decided to invest on other eyelash curler brands as the Shu Uemura one is not for all eye shapes!   During my Japan trip, I purchased 2 Shiseido Eyelash curlers (215 Mini Eyelash Curler Review HERE, regular sized curler review to follow) which works well on most Asian Eyes and I thought I'm done with my eyelash curler adventures!  

Guess what, I missed another one!  The brand may not be known for their eyelash curlers but I'm glad I was able to use one as this is definitely a keeper!  It's definitely for personal use as it fits my eye shape like a glove!


The Bobbi Brown Eyelash Curler
Bobbi Brown says ---
Specially-designed to fit the contours of Asian eyes, this eye lash curler lifts and curls lashes without pinching or crimping.  Extra cushiony lash pads gently grip even the smallest lashes for a perfectly lifted and curled effect.

AMW says ---
Pros
  • The color is great!  Gives a unique look to regular silver colored eyelash curlers.
  • Comes with 2 replacement pads.
  • Gives an easy "non-L-shaped" curl.
  • Doesn't pinch my eyelid.
  • Curved the right way that can grab all my sparse lashes.
  • The length of the Bobbi Brown Eyelash Curler is a tad bit shorter than Shu Uemura and Shiseido which works for smaller eyes.
Cons
  • To some who have naturally long and full lashes, the price!  If you can get away with inexpensive eyelash curlers, lucky you! :D
Overall
Grabs all my lashes and gives a nice curl instantly without putting much pressure on pressing the curler.

Tips
  • Prior to use, always check the rubber pad to make sure they are fully aligned with the metal edges.  Sometimes a huge space may be the cause of "lash pinching".
  • Try different ways to curl your lashes.  Looking straight into a mirror, lifting your eyelid is the best way to grab all your lashes.
  • It is best to curl your lashes while it is clean and bare.  
  • I know this has been a tip for a lot of professionals but I prefer not to "heat" the eyelash curler with blow dryer as it can melt the pad or worst, you may accidentally burn your eyes.
  • To warm your eyelash curler, press the curler in between the palms of your hands to "heat up" the metal portion of the curler.  
  • The Bobbi Brown Eyelash Curler comes with a cloth pouch, I highly recommend to keep the eyelash curler inside a pouch to prevent dirt from the pad.  It also protects the rest of your eyelash curler.
  • Wipe the eyelash curler pad after every use with a clean cotton pad dampened with makeup remover.

Will I repurchase?
Yes.  I already called and reserved another one for my clients!  Now, I'm armed with Shu Uemura, Shiseido, Bobbi Brown plus a heated lash curler.  I think I'm ready for any eye shapes! :D

To whom do I recommend this to?
Everyone!  For eyelash curler shopping, you need to try on testers and see which one works best for you!

Where to purchase and how much?
Bobbi Brown is available at Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s Shangri-la Mall, and Essenses Rockwell.  The Bobbi Brown Eyelash Curler is priced Php1,200 (approx $30.00).

Photos

Bobbi Brown Eyelash Curler comes with 2 replacement pads!
 
A closer look
Bobbi Brown's head is shorter as compared to Shiseido and Shu Uemura but the curve is exactly the same as that of Shu Uemura. 

The length of the eyelash curler head fits my small eyes perfectly!  In one grip, it grabs 95% of my lashes without the pink as shown on photo below.

Here, I curled my lashes only once to show how it doesn't give a sharp L-Shape as most eyelash curlers give.

Side view of my bare lashes using Bobbi Brown Eyelash Curler.  The good news?  The curl lasts the whole day without mascara application!  (Keep in mind that the curl's staying power depends on the performance of the mascara you use.)

Have you tried Bobbi Brown Eyelash Curler?
Have you found the perfect eyelash curler for your eye shape?  If yes, I'd love to hear from you so the rest of the AMW readers may get some ideas to!

As for me, Shu Uemura eyelash curler can curl my lashes well but I have to be careful not to pinch my eyelid due to its length.  As for Shiseido, it curls all my lashes the shape is perfect for most Asian eyes, the only concern is that I have to make sure to curl it well as the curl doesn't last if I'm in a hurry.  As for Bobbi Brown, the product did say it was specifically designed for Asian eyes in which I definitely fit this category!  I do not need to apply much pressure to create the curl I want and it stays! 

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

Thursday, February 7, 2013

AMW Reviews: Celeteque Hydration Hydrolized Moisturizing Mist

Happy Thursday AMW friends!  How's your week?  Mine was quite good, my allergies were acting up for weeks and I finally went back to the doctor to have a safe anti-histamine medication prescribed and I'm definitely sleeping more soundly!  

Today, I will be reviewing a product close to my heart.  Well, any product that gives an instant boost of hydration will always be my best friend!  Just like lip balm, I cannot live without a moisturizer or hydration mists (for in between days) because putting on makeup will always cause my skin to dry out midday!  I have used the Celeteque Hydration Hydrolized Moisturizing Mist for quite some time (even before I got pregnant) and today, I will finally unveil my thoughts on this product after finishing this up! 

Celeteque says ---
CELETEQUE DermoScience™ Hydration Hydrolyzed Moisturizing Mist contains Hydrolyzed Liquids and NMF that restore moisture to the skin and improve its elasticity and softness. Water from Fuji has trace elements that rejuvenate the skin to make it feel more supple and refreshed. It can also be used over make-up.
Ingredients:














 AMW says ---
Pros
  • Handy, spritz bottle easy to tote along for travel.
  • Gives instant boost of moisture to your skin.
  • Refreshing to use anytime of the day.
  • Doesn't give a greasy or oily feel.
  • Helps foundation adheres better on skin with this extra boost of moisture prior to makeup application.
  • No allergic reactions or skin irritations on my part while using this.
  • Makeup doesn't look as "powdery" when spritzed with Celeteque Hydration Hydrolized Moisturizing Mist after makeup application.
  • Proudly Philippine made product!
Cons
  • None for now. 
Overall
Refreshing, simple yet smart packaging, easy to use and gives instant boost of hydration anytime of the day.

Tips
from Celeteque
  • After washing the face, spray the mist once or twice on the selected areas of the face and tap dry with a soft cloth. 
  • It is best to use before make-up or sunscreen application to moisturize and awaken the skin. Use as often as needed.

from AMW
  • Store the product inside the fridge for a refreshing cool mist!
  • Spritz all over your face and pat using your clean fingers after skincare, prior to makeup application.
  • If you suffer from super dry skin, spritz this product after foundation application to prevent skin dryness.
  • Once signs of irritations occur, stop usage immediately!  Though this product is tested hypoallergenic and safe for use among Filipinos, there will always be exceptions to the rule.
  • In between spritz, pat using clean tissue paper to prevent makeup from sliding off.
Will I repurchase?
Yes.

To whom do I recommend this to?
All skin types!  Though I highly recommend this for people with dry skin, this also works for oily skinned individuals who dislikes the use of extra moisturizer in their daily routine.

Where to purchase and how much?
Available at Mercury Drugstores, Watsons, SM Department Stores, Robinsons Supermarket, Landmark, PCX, Shopwise and Rustans for Php349.00 (approx $8.73).

Photos


Reusable spritz bottle in which I like to put my makeup cleaner.

Manufactured and Expiration date printed

Do you currently use any facial mist for hydration?  If yes, which brand and does it work for you?
I for once has always been a MAC Renewal Defense Charged Water user and I still use that at present, but on days I need the extra hydration without me worrying about the price of each spritz, I go for Celeteque Hydration Hydrolized Moisturizing Mist.  So far, the name sounds a bit too scientific for me and I have to admit, I was scared to use at first, but with my doctor's go signal and without the allergic reactions that I usually get (in an instant), I'm so far, safe using this product!

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Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Revlon PhotoReady 3D Volume Mascara Review



I've had this Revlon Photoready 3D Volume mascara for months and I'm glad Revlon packaged their mascaras quite well (especially this specific mascara), the brush is separated in the packaging and the mascara itself was closed pretty tight!  

As I'm ready to use it, that's the time I dip my super white bristled mascara wand (which broke my heart by the way) and used it for more than a month!  I'm finally here to review "yet another" mascara from Revlon.  In the past, the brand, in terms of mascaras, just gave me a "hohum" review.  Will this one makes a huge difference?  


Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Nail Art Tutorial: Be My Valentine + Karat World's The Forever My Love Collection




Ah, my first nail art of the year was done last month and I'm glad I have at least one for the month of February!  It was one fine Friday evening as I was looking at my boring (equivalent to no polish) nails, I've decided to pull out my nail polish box and play with the "safe" nail polish for pregnant women!  Who would've thought playing could be fun?  I ended up with a very simple (promise, it really is!) and playful nails that I would like to call "Be My Valentine".

"Be My Valentine" is an interpretation done by yours truly as this cute, matchstick boy and girl reminded me so much of the couple pillow case we have which I bought from Bangkok Thailand years ago!  I'm sure some of you probably have the same pillowcase too!


Step 1:
Since I do not own any "safe for pregnant women" base coat and top coat, I've decided to give this step a skip and went ahead and applied 2 coats of Girl Stuff Polish in Flirt.  Wait until polish is completely dry.

Monday, February 4, 2013

AMW Reviews: MAC Technakohl Liner in Uniform

Happy Monday dearies!
Though most of my Mondays are usually quiet and a bit boring, today will be different as I'm heading for a meeting right after work!  Yes, another meeting to keep me and Baby AMW updated with what's happening around the Metro!  (Quite funny how I sound like a government official now!) *bored face*

So today, I won't be wearing my pajama as I slave my way off work!  I will be changing into a more "respectable" outfit and definitely will put on some makeup!  One of the many few makeup items that I can't live without as you all know by now is my trustee eyeliners!  Whether gel, liquid or pencils!  I have to use one! 

Today, let me share to you the latest discovery I have regarding liners!  I could go black but it could get a bit too intense for a simple meeting or I could go blah with a regular brown liner!  Who would've thought that there is a shade that works for most people with warm skin tones? 

It's called UNIFORM!
P.S. I look good in my C.A.T. Military uniform way back as battle green has always been a good color on me! :P

MAC's Technakohl Liner in Uniform has been around for quite awhile so don't judge me as I'm not up-to-date!  Based on packaging alone, I can't seem to pinpoint if Uniform is a sparkled brown liner but upon close perusal, it is a khaki-colored liner with gold shimmers.


MAC says ---
A mechanical pencil-style liner. In formula, soft and creamy, with an intense, rich, colour deposit. Blends on application: dries quickly to a long-wear, non-smudge finish. Versatile. An easy way to line the top and lower lash line of the eye. When applied at a 90 degree angle, provides a thin precision line. For thicker application, apply at a flat angle.
Size: 0.35 g / 0.012 US oz

AMW says ---
Pros
  • No need to sharpen.
  • Unique color, you may find a dupe but not as easy as blacks and browns.
  • Gives a very natural look.
  • Doesn't smudge (if applied on upper and lower lash line).
  • Color payoff is good.
  • Applies smoothly and no need to tug the eyes.
  • The shimmers stay on the liner and doesn't transfer.
Cons
  • May smudge if used for tight line or if applied on the water line.
  • Price.  I don't use this as often but I'm almost halfway done!
Overall
Unqiue shade, easy to apply and good pigmentation.

Tips
  • Call your preferred MAC Cosmetics branch before you purchase as I plan to repurchase this but this is out of stock at the MAC Glorietta branch.
  • The pencil tends to be hard and dry at the tip, warm the tip by rubbing a bit of the product at the back of your hand before you apply on the eye area.
  • For a more natural look, smudge off using a smudge brush.  Apply translucent powder or similar shade of eyeshadow to "set" the liner.
  • If most pencil liners tend to smudge on you, chances are, the MAC Technakohl liner is not an exception, use an eyeshadow primer underneath or use a Sealant (check Make Up For Ever Eye Seal, review HERE).
Will I repurchase?
Yes.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Pencil liner users who wants to steer away from the usual blacks and browns.

Where to purchase and how much?
At local MAC Cosmetics Stores for Php950.00 (approx $23.75).

Photos

MAC Technakohl Liner in Uniform
A combination of deep brown, dark green with gold shimmers

A quick swatch

Sometimes, I have sensitive eyes so I prefer to apply this on my upper lash line and skip tight lining!  With tiny check marks, I apply this liner close to my lash line as shown on photo below.


The overall effect of Uniform shade applied on both upper and lower lash line.  The look is definitely more subtle than black and complements my skin even without much makeup on!  If you plan to do heavy eye make up application, the shade Uniform may not show up.


Do you own a unique battle green/dark brown/gold liner at present?
Which other unique shades of pencil liners do you recommend?
So far, I can go for my favorite bright blue or bright green pencil liners on days I want my eyes to pop, but on a casual day, I don't mind picking my MAC Technakohl liner in Uniform!

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