Readers' Corner: "I Want to Start Wearing Red!"

Happy Monday and finally, it is year of the Water Snake!  How did you celebrate the Chinese New Year?  Me, I just had a simple get-together with both families and I'm happy my brother is back for a week's vacation!

Speaking of Chinese New Years, everyone's been wearing red and for girls, it helps to wear bright red lipsticks too!  The problem is, not everyone is comfortable wearing red lipsticks!  Trust me, I am the perfect person to talk to as I grew up in a very conservative family (especially in makeup).  Wearing anything bright on lips, eyes or cheeks will attract unwanted comments, but come on, what year is it?  Everyone's been very open in expressing themselves and I have definitely gone out of my shell!  I can wear red lipstick anytime I want but of course, I hear you!  There are dear readers out there who are still uncomfortable and have voiced out their concern (through email) on how to start wearing one! 

Lucky you, I've been there, done that!  I'm the right person to ask! *winks*

First, you have to pick the right shade of red that compliments your skin tone!  As for me, I'm in the middle of fair and medium skin so I like to wear deep reds.  My suggestion for a "practice wearing red" lip color is from MAC called Del Rio.

MAC Satin Lipstick in Del Rio has a rich soft satin, semi-matte finish that can be applied with light-hand for a very soft, plumy-reddish brown shade or you can always opt for heavy hand application for a vampy look.

Top: Bare Lips

Bottom: Applied with 1 Layer of MAC Satin Lipstick in Del Rio

Just like most MAC lipsticks, I need to exfoliate and moisturize my lips prior to application as I have extremely dry lips!  To make this look easier to the eyes, I prefer to apply a thin layer of my favorite Elizabeth Arden 8-Hour Cream and blot it with a tissue paper prior to lipstick application.  I prefer the finish of my deep red lipstick to be matte as my lips are full and applying gloss could scream "large lips"!

In this photo: AMW wears MAC Satin Lipstick in Del Rio with powder foundation.  Of course, Del Rio is just one of the many "practice wearing red" lipsticks, there will always be other brands and other shades that you can start with!

What's your "Practice Wearing Red Lipstick" brand and shade?


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Weekend Food Trip at: Love Desserts

Because Valentine's Day is near, this is the perfect opportunity for me to post about sweets!  Come on, you know you want them!  

Over the week, I had my doctor's appointment scheduled and usually, after the checkup, we would be around the area scouring for new restaurants to try!  As for that night, I had a good news from my Doctor that I don't have Gestational Diabetes (which occurs to most pregnant women) and my li'l AMW is in dire need to food to grow bigger (okay, I invented that!), hubby and I have decided to give this desserts place a try!  And guess what?  We've decided to skip dinner overall as it is a dessert buffet place!  Call us crazy, but we want to taste as much sweets as we can for that night! 

Love Desserts

I've learned about Love Desserts from fellow blogger Joanne Tan .  She said it's going to be a cool place to hang out with the dearest love of my life (whoever he is :P)  Just joking Hubby!  It isn't difficult to find the place as the restaurant was well lit right next to the huge Bruno's Barber Shop at Banawe.

As soon as we got in, I felt an immediate comfort as the ambiance screams CHILDHOOD FANTASY!

The place was well lit with colorful posters of desserts you can think of!  As I was busy looking around for what to eat, thanks to Mr. AMW for dutifully taking all these lovely shots!  Seriously, I cannot be a food blogger, I tend to panic with wonderful food in sight!

A fridge featuring all the cakes they have, I believe you can buy these cakes in whole to take home too!

Shall we start?  They have my favorite Halo-Halo station with all the works all laid out for you.

You can also try their Ice Blended Drinks varying from Chocolate, Vanilla, Taro, Capuccino and Buko Pandan.  I was aiming for Strawberry Milk Shake that night but I was told it's not available!  Oh well, I gave it a skip and save my tummy space for more sweets!

Thank goodness they have my favorite brand of ice cream --- Big Scoop!  Some of the flavors available that night are --- Strawberry, Avocado, Vanilla, Ube, Bubble Gum, Buko Pandan, Mango, etc...  I am so grateful they have Vanilla flavored ice cream as it is so difficult to find one nowadays!

Toppings you can put with your ice cream!  You can make your own banana split!

Crepe Station

You can ask the server to make you strawberry, blueberry, banana crepes but we opted for the simplest crepe of all!

Thanks for granting our request.  A simple crepe topped with Vanilla Ice Cream with chocolate and caramel syrup!

Added with kiddie candies --- that's Mr. AMW's ! 

Mine looks more classy and professional *winks* But take note, I finished it up without class! It was so delicious I was done with this in less than 5 minutes!  Blame Baby AMW!  It wasn't me! :P

Okay...let's head on further to the next station, just so you know Love Desserts serve a la carte dishes so you can order your rice meals if you feel like there's just too much sugar out there.  As for me, I'm glad to find some cheesesticks, taco salad (my favorite for the night!) and Tuna Empanadas.  I'm not sure if you guys are familiar of Baron's Taco (SM Megamall), their Taco Salad is my ultimate favorite BUT they closed down and I missed them dearly.  That night, at Love Desserts, I was able to satisfy my need for  a good taco salad!  Great job Love Desserts!  Great job!

They also have fruit salad, mangoes with bagoong and a coffee machine for you just in case you need a cup of cappuccino (let's talk about that later). I have to comment that I love their fruit salad too, I just wish they were chilled!

On to the "mousse" station, cute tiny shots of various mousse and cookies.

More cakes, cupcakes that you can think of!

Chocolate Eclairs, brownies, and a whole lot more!  Just in case, they also serve "Goto" that night! 

Just when I stuffed my face with as much food and desserts as I can, they put out a blueberry cheesecake!  I was looking at it dearly but seriously, with the baby inside and my full tummy?  I don't have enough space to breathe!  So Mr. Blueberry Cheesecake?  <--- br="" next="" time="">

The hubby was really full that night too so he went for a cup of cappuccino in which the staff helped us made!  I took a sip and it was really good coffee!

Love Desserts isn't huge nor small, the place was just right for a good number of people.  As we were there, the place was quite full with people chatting around endlessly, I believe, with added excitement!  Must be the sugar rush! 

They also have boards for customers to write down their thoughts about Love Desserts!

Love Desserts Buffet costs only Php199.00 (approx $4.97) in which, I believe is reasonably priced!  With just a couple of ice cream scoops, halo-halo and crepes?  It's all worth it!  If my mom is not diabetic, I would definitely take her here in a heartbeat!  By the way, each customer is advised to stay maximum of 2 hours to give other customers a chance to enjoy their desserts buffet!  I think 2 hours is enough as we're stuffed by an hour!

Overall, the experience was great, the servers are very helpful and friendly!  And before I end this post, I want to share their Valentine's Day promo!  On February 14, 2013 the desserts buffet price will be slashed to Php143.00 (approx $3.55)!  Please call for reservations as I'm sure it'll be jam packed that night!

So, who are you taking? *winks*

Love Desserts
915 Banawe St cor G Roxas Ave Manresa,
Quezon City 
Tel No: (632) 348-3551

  --------------------------

By the way, NuffnangX is officially available for download from the Apple app store and teh Android play store.  There is also a web version available on www.nuffnangx.com.

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AMW Reviews: Ahava Mineral Hand Cream

Happy Weekend AMW Friends and Happy Year of the Water Snake!  Gong Xi Fa Cai!!!

I'm in a chirpy mood as I'm finally having a break from work!  Yay for more time to rest, more Korean series to watch, more games to play and time just to chill!  I have a week holiday and I deserve it as I don't get to experience Philippine Holidays! 

As I'm currently sharing my knowledge at Benefit's 2nd Beauty Emergency Workshop at the Shangri-la Mall, I will definitely leave something for you today to read, another product review of one of the Unsung Heroes --- the Hand Cream!  

I got the Ahava Mineral Hand Cream sample (20ml) from Sample Room and I'm so happy to have tried this good sized sample before deciding whether to go for full size or not!  Should I?  Or shouldn't I?  Read on for my reviews!

Ahava says ---
Mineral-enriched cream specially formulated to protect hands and safeguard them from climatic hazards and household damage. Instantly smoothes chapped, dry skin and restores suppleness.
Size: 100 ml
Ingredients:


AMW says ---
Pros

• Simple squeeze type packaging, easy to use.
• A pea size amount is enough to keep both hands moisturized.
• Non-sticky.
• The product gets absorbed into the skin easily.
• No allergic reactions.

Cons

• Others may find the powdery scent overwhelming.  (not for me!)
• Constant re-application may be needed.

Overall

Very lightweight hand cream that keeps my hands hydrated throughout the day (with constant application).

Tips

• Hand creams are best used after dish washing or hand wash.
• Hand creams or any other creams are effective with continuous use!  Do not expect to see the positive effects right away, give it at least a month or so.
• Apply more of the hand cream at night before you go to bed and wake up with soft hands!
• Bring your hand cream with you anywhere you go for re-application.  It works when you shake a whole lot of hands for work!  People will appreciate how soft your hands are! *winks*

Will I repurchase?
Yes.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Everyone!  Even guys should use hand creams!  (I force Mr. AMW to use them once in awhile) :P

Where to purchase and how much?

I got my sample at Sample Room.  Full size Ahava Mineral Hand Cream is available at Ahava Kiosk, 2/F SM Megamall, G/F Glorietta 4,  2/F Shangri-La Plaza and Upper Ground (K-1104), Robinson’s Magnolia for Php650.00 (approx $16.25).  Like Ahava Philippines on Facebook or visit them on their website.

Photos

Easy to squeeze tube making it hassle-free to control the amount of product needed. Though this is a sample sized tube, I believe the full sized is housed in a same type of packaging.

Texture of Ahava Mineral Hand Cream

Cream-like texture but very lightweight as it gets absorbed into the skin in no time.

Are you currently using a hand cream?  
If yes, which particular brand and are you satisfied with it?
I have been a Crabtree & Evelyn Hand Therapy Cream user for years, then I recently received the Boots Caribbean Cocktail Aruba Dream Hand and Nail Cream from dear blogger friend and loved it so much I was able to constantly use it on a daily basis.  Now that I'm done with the Boots and can't seem to find it locally, I'm glad Ahava Mineral Hand Cream came in just in time to save my hands!


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 (Sample product received via SampleRoom.ph.  Reviews 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

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.)

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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