BOHKTOH Perfect lash curler review

I felt like I am biased to 2 curler brands - Shiseido and Shu Uemura.  

These 2 brands have been compared side by side on Vlogs and Blogs.  Those were the days of constant product comparison (or versus mode!)  Unfortunately, we don't have a lot of those today right?  I see a lot of "dupes" or downplaying another brand by talking a certain brand. 

UGH.  

But let's get back to my purpose of this post!  LOL  I get older and tend to get distracted easily.

Though I am biased with 2 brands, I love ONE brand and ONLY ONE Brand --- SHISEIDO.  I hail it my MOST favorite eyelash curler year 2015 and 7 years after, I still felt the same!

After so many years of trying various brands from both local and international, one brand finally stepped up!  I mean not SHISEIDO LEVEL but for the price, it wasn't bad!

Bohk Toh Perfect Lash Curler
Php400.00
Available HERE or HERE

AMW says ---

• Inexpensive
• Comes with extra pad.
• The curler itself has a "pad holder", you won't lose it anymore like I always do.
• Same weight as expensive curlers.
• Does not pinch my eyelid.
• Does curl lashes properly but missed a few on both edges. (My lashes are extremely short so this is normal!)

I still love my Shiseido curler as it curls 95% of my lashes.  Bohk Toh on the other hand can curl 80% of my lashes which is great enough!  If you are looking for inexpensive lash curler that works, you may want to check this out!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

  

My Favorite Eyeshadow Brushes (2022 Edition)

 

Lugging around (no joke) 50 plus brushes in my belt bag is the usual things for a Make Up Artist.  Losing a couple is also normal even if you label it with your name!  That is why it isn't unusual to own 3-4 similar brushes just for back-ups.

Waste of Money? YES

Part of the Profession?  YES YES YES!

Because of the pandemic and how everything was put on HOLD and how life has been simplified.  Even the makeup world - in my world - has also simplified and here, I am finally sharing my MUST HAVE Eye Makeup Brushes.  My ride or die brushes when I get stuck into an isand --- nah!  I won't be bringing any makeup when I'm stuck in an island #REALTALK :P

FLAT SHADER BRUSH

I call this my eyeshadow "packing" brush.  This is the brush I usually start with whether to apply cream-based shadow products as base or eyeshadow primer.  It just packs the right amount of product properly.  

I mostly go for natural haired bristle to pack powdered products and synthetic version for cream/liquid based eye products.  That said, you can opt to purchase 2 - if you must buy only one - pick the natural bristled one.

 MEDIUM CREASE BRUSH/BLENDING BRUSH

A brush I seriously can't live without.  I can probably miss a flat shader brush but NOT THIS ONE.  This is my eyeshadow blending brush and this size works even for small eyelids!  I own more than 10 of this type of brush from different brands because I just can't get enough of it.

Aside from used as blending, you can also use the tip of the brush to "grab" eyeshadow powder pigment and apply directly on to the lid.  The effect isn't as pigmented as using a flat shader brush but you'll get a natural flush of color on your lids every single time --- no demarcation marks if blended properly.

The famous "Wiper Motion" is also used for this brush!  You will be the master of blending your eyeshadow if you practice with this brush.

LARGE CREASE BRUSH/BLENDING BRUSH

Since I am always for OPTIONS - this is another brush to invest on if you have bigger eyelid space.  Even with small eyelid space, I find this brush super useful in so many ways.

Ecotools Now in the Philippines

 

If you are a long time AMW reader, you would know I joined a couple of online international giveaways at some point in my life as there are so many brands I wanted to try, test and own but they are not available locally.  One of the brand is a brush brand called Ecotools.  

The first Ecotools brush set I own was year 2009 and would you believe they are still working fine after 11 long years?

Then I purchased another one from an international site and loved my Ecotools Bamboo Eyeliner Brush.  It was really the earthy tone, bamboo handle that sets the brand to where it is now.

Fast forward to several years after, FINALLY, they are widely available in the Philippines and I can't help but reminisce through my blogging journey, how I went high and low just to get a product and try them out and write a detailed review for you!

See that "kilig" happy smile?  That is legit!  I still felt the excitement up until this very day - a decade plus of Blogging!

With the pandemic, I am glad the brand launched not only physically but digitally.  Widely available in SM stores, they are also easy to purchase at Lazada, Shopee, Zalora, BeautyMNL, Beauty by freyja, Kalm Cosmetics, Beauty Bubble and Watsons.

To start off let me share to you my newly acquired Ecotools brushes.  And there's more!

Check out the Jade Roller!  This is amazing in amplifying your skincare routine!  Does it work?  Well, to shorten my answer, it really does!  But you have to really be consistent about it gently! 

If you want a good eye makeup brushes to create nice looking eye makeup, go for Ecotools 1217 Eye Enhancing Duo Make Up Brush Set.  You are technically paying for 2 brushes but you get 4 brush heads to help define, blend, smudge and just blur out your eyeshadow application!  The bristles are extremely soft and because they are synthetic hair, you can use it both wet or dry application!

If like me, you wear more base makeup than eyeshadow, please invest on Ecotools 1290 Complexion Buffer Make Up Blending Brush.  This works so well on both pressed and loose powdered makeup.  Best of all, you can use this same brush to apply your sunscreen, tinted moisturizer, foundation or concealer!  I also use this same brush to apply blush, contour, highlight powder/cream/liquids.  Basta, most sulit brush ever!

Beauty Blender Powder Pocket Puff Review

I have never been so addicted to a powder puff in the past!  I always use the ones included inside the compact and just throw them away after I use up the product.

Yes, I don't keep memories with them, but I'm starting to see some attachment and love story between me and the Beauty Blender Powder Pocket Puff!

Beauty Blender Powder Pocket Puff

Php650.00

Available in SM and Watsons Stores, also Lazada

A double-sided, next-generation cosmetic puff that helps to both apply and 

touch-up powder formulas so makeup looks flawless.

#ASKAMW Damp Sponge or Dry Sponge?

I was asked so many times on #AskAMW DM what's the difference between and damp sponge and dry sponge! 

Finally, shared it on video the difference with demo how a foundation would look if you applied it WET or DRY.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 𝐍𝐢𝐤𝐤𝐢 𝐓𝐢𝐮 (@askmewhats) on Sep 2, 2019 at 4:02am PDT

Now, tell me, are you Team Damp or Team Dry?

Beauty Blender sponge was used on video, feel free to use any sponge!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

 

Charm Essentials Brushes I Highly Recommend!

I haven't talked about makeup brushes for the longets time!  I guess, my brushes collection is complete and I take care of them even after X years, they still work good as new!

But for newbies or even professionals who plan to invest on something inexpensive yet affordable, I always recommend one of my favorite local brand Charm Essentials.

Founded year 2007, the year I started Blogging, I've seen how this brand grew and how I grew with the brand!

(P.S. I am still using the Charm PRO MakeUp Artist Tool Belt as of the moment!)

Rounding up all the Charm Essentials brushes I own, I picked some essentials that I truly think you can look into or invest on because I have been using them for personal use still!

Beauty Blender InstaClean Review

I love my Beauty Blender Sponge so much nothing compares to it.

But heres the thing, even with my expertise in makeup tools cleaning, I am opening up my heart to you right now, for the first time, with this statement: "It is freaking hard to clean!!!"

So after years of taking a photo of that perfect pink newly purchased Beauty Blender just because it won't look like that again, I am so happy to announce that the brand finally came up with their own Beauty Blender Instaclean!  A Waterless Sponge and Brush Cleaning Spray!

Here's how my Beauty Blender looks like even after washing with soap and water + cleansing oil.  It just doesn't do the job right?

Read on to see if this is indeed a magic in a bottle!

Beauty Blender InstaClean Says (lifted from BeautyMnl.com) ---

A waterless, quick drying, and no-rinse sponge and brush cleansing spray
Cleans your BeautyBlender and makeup brushes instantly; allows you to instantly switch from one product to another; does not affect color application; comes a travel-friendly size; has an alcohol-free formula; contains a subtle calming scent of lavender

Eureka Moment! The Original BeautyBlender is HERE!

8 years ago was the first time I touched the Original Beauty Blender when I was doing a shoot for a make up school I attended.  My foundation application has changed (for both myself and clients).  Through the years, I have this in my KIT and even repurchased this several times even with all the new brands coming in.

The Original will always be the original and mark my words for it!  It feels different and I can tell the difference even when blindfolded!

8 years after, imagine the happiness when The Original Beauty Blender is finally here in Manila?  Guys, not from resellers but officially distributed?  I was able to get 2 and they actually have other shades available!  (if you don't believe me, check out BeautyMNL!)

BeautyBlender Pro Black 

BeautyBlender Single

Php990.00 each

Signature elliptical shape invented by Hollywood makeup artist Rea Ann Silva; designed to “bounce” makeup onto skin for a flawless finish; blends product with utmost ease; soft suede texture; latex-free, odor-free, and non-allergenic.

Eureka Moment: Pro Studio Beauty Exclusives Miracle Sponge Set with Case (8 Pack)

I have been watching Korean Youtube Gurus like Jungsaemmool and I remembered wanting this huge sponges she used on her tutorials!

Eureka moment indeed when the Pro Studio Beauty Exclusives Miracle Sponge Set (8 pack) Php550.00 (on sale at BeautyMNL.com for Php440.00) in pastel shades landed on my table one day!




It comes in a Pentagon Shaped sponge, quite thick and very dense.  I immediately picked one and used one on my client and on myself!



What made me love this even more is the fact that it comes with its' own container, so doing some research, they sell 20pcs pack (all white) for Php200.00 making it a nice way for me to just repurchase a refill and put all these cute sponges free from dirt on this clear plastic container.

The Body Shop Vegan Brushes Review

So you think I have enough makeup brushes for now.

Well, you're wrong!  

As a makeup artist, I am always on a lookout for both professional and personal makeup brushes and the newest brushes from The Body Shop definitely caught my attention and I am actually including these into my personal "daily-use-brushes".  I use them on a daily basis you can actually see these brushes popping out on my blog photos whenever I do tutorial or reviews.

Before you start raising your brows on what sets these brushes apart from other brands, The Body Shop brushes (and all their skincare and makeup items) are 100% cruelty-free from the synthetic bristles down to the sustainably sourced wooden handles --- they are totally VEGAN.

Locally, I see them popping in stores and I actually got 3 to try!  These 3 are my must-have brushes from the said brand and I use them daily holding each wooden handle like my dear life! :P

The Body Shop Point Highlight Brush

• Pointed highlighter brush to expertly strobe
• Made with charcoal-coated, super-soft bristles
• Developed with the latest make-up trends in mind
• Synthetic, cruelty-free bristles and a sustainably sourced wooden handle
• Vegan make-up brush

Pro Studio Beauty Exclusives: Miracle Edge Sponge Can Make You A PRO!

So Beauty Blenders are EVERYWHERE!  Original and "inspired versions".  I own 2 originals and a whole lot of "inspired ones".  So I guess I have a bit of the "right" to say, I know if it's as good as the original or even close to the original.  #BraggingRights

I recently got one as a gift that doesn't look like your regular Beauty Blender Sponge, it comes with an "Edge" that's why it's called a Miracle Edge Sponge!  It is also in hot pink and there are other colors like Light Pink and Purple which I find extremely adorable and I want to get them all!

Miracle Edge Sponge

Php490.00 but priced Php285.00 at BeautyMNL

How does it look?  None of that teardrop shape!  It comes with a sharp tip and a flat edge!  

And it also gets BIG when wet!  See how huge it is against the palm of my hand?

Easiest Brush to Contour Your Face

I currently own so many makeup brushes I can't seem to keep track and I dread washing them on a weekly basis!  (shhhh)  

But, a certain brush brand caught my attention because it is indeed so easy-to-use and it delivers as what the name says, it frames my face whenever I use this and the name is called.....

Face Framing Contour Brush 

by Pro Studio Beauty Exclusives 

Php480.00

I got this brush as a Christmas Gift last year and have been testing and using this for almost 2 months now.  

If you ask me, at first glance, the brush doesn't look anything special at all!  I mean judging by the look of the bristles, application could go messy.  But of course, who am I to judge?  I gave this a small sweep under my cheekbones the moment I received this (not recommended as you need to wash your brushes upon purchase)

Initial thoughts?  Brush hair is quite soft and easy to use and it fits under my cheekbones perfectly.

A New Face Sponge In Town!

It's shaped like a teardrop, it's pink and it helps apply makeup base with an ease!  

This is called the Nippon Teardrop Sponge!

My AMW Workshop Series Part 3: Waterproofing Your Makeup participants were lucky!  They each get to try the newest sponge from Nippon Esthetic, my to-go-to brand when it comes to professional tools!  

Unlike regular round sponge, this is shaped like a teardrop with a wide base and a narrower tip.  The teardrop shape makes base makeup application easier, I'll tell you why after the jump!

At least half an inch thick, this makes medium to heavy coverage base not only a "possibility" but a breeze!  You may use this wet or dry depending on your coverage preference.

According to Nippon ---

The reusable sponge creates an even, flawless finish for any foundation formula. Washable with Nippon Pro Dual-Purpose Cleaner. Dermatologist tested + hypoallergenic. Instructions: Use the tip of the sponge for a precise application, and the wide end to spread foundation evenly.

Etude House My Beauty Tool Secret Brush 121 Review (Face)

When Oval brushes came out in the market, I knew I had to get them even if I own a number of face brushes as of the moment!  Especially when I chanced upon Etude House My Beauty Tool Secret Brush 121?  Who can say no to this?

 I do not own a lot of this type of brushes, the first one was from Purple Tags and I realized after using it that this is the type of brush you don't think you need?  But once you tried them, it is indeed life-changing!

Blooming Face Make Up Using Purple Tags Oval Brush and Proud Mary BB Cream

If you are a beauty junkie like me, you've probably seen the "toothbrush-like" face brush that originally came from MAC Masterclass Oval Face Brush no. 6 and other brands are coming up with their own!  This is my first Oval Face Brush so I won't be able to compare this with other brands (for now) but let me share my overall experience and if YOU need this in your life.

For this particular blog post, I took the opportunity to test drive my newest BB Cream from Proud Mary.  See the result!

Suesh 2015 Holiday Collection 5pc Gold & Black Brush Set

I will start sharing gift-giving ideas starting TODAY!  I will randomly post great-gift finds because Christmas is indeed very near!

Whenever I want to give gifts for my makeup loving friends, I always knew deep in my heart that we can never have enough brushes!  I personally own so many brush sets but it is always nice to receive more because....come on!  Do I need to explain myself?

And the Suesh 2015 Holiday Collection is no exception to the rule!  I clicked on their site and found nice collection of brushes for the holiday and they are priced reasonably!

Suesh 2015 Holiday Collection 5pc Gold & Black Brush Set

Php380.00

The KIT comes with 5 essential brushes to create a simple look!  The handle is black with gold ferrule and these brushes are made from Vegan Korean Taklon Hair, so I believe these brushes are perfect even for users who have sensitive skin!

Eureka Moment: Crown Pro Blending Fluff Brush and Pro Domed Blender Brush

Dear AMW Friends, 

I've been quiet for a long time on make up brushes because..you guessed it right!  I have enough brushes to prettify 10 people without the need to wash them because I have back-ups!  And all of them are well-taken care off so I don't have the need to purchase new brush sets anytime soon.

Not when I laid my eyes on the Crown Brushes!  It was during the CBeauty event where I met Cristina Madara when I got to touch and feel Crown Brushes for the first time.

Yes, I've read positive reviews online but knowing the fact that I have to order online from US and have to wait for months for these brushes to arrive, I told myself I can get away without them.

NOT UNTIL I TOUCHED THEM!  Especially the Pro Blending Fluff Brush and Pro Domed Blender Brush!  I knew I had to get them, and now, I am thinking about purchasing backups because they are THAT good!

So...EUREKA MOMENT!

Crown Brush Pro Blending Brush

Php475.00 (approx $10.55)

I have enough eye blending brushes that I can really tell which ones are the good ones and which ones not worth a single centavo!  The best I've used is so far from MAC!  The MAC 217 Blending Brush!  I had to purchase 2 in Hong Kong because this is the perfect blending brush for me and for clients who have small lid space! 

As soon as I purchased the Pro Blending Brush from Crown, I am happy to announce, this definitely is the BEST blending brush I've tried!  No kidding!

It has the same "density" the MAC 217 brush has and actually shaped in a dome that is perfect to create "fake crease", create depth on your eyes or just simply blend out harsh edges!  This is a natural-haired brush that isn't scratchy even after several washes.  And best of all, the brush hairs are even better packed than the more expensive ones so this is a life-saver even for first-time eye makeup wearers.  This brush can turn you from newbie to pro!  My blending skill turns up a notch because of this brush!

Eureka Moment: Nippon Esthetic Eyelash Applicator

Hi AMW Friends!  Happy Monday!
Remember my previous tutorial on Special Events Make Up?  Well, if you did, you probably saw the nifty "gadget" I used to apply my false lashes!  For years, I've been very dependent with my Tweezers when it comes to application on both myself and clients!  

Don't get me wrong, I don't mind using Tweezers, they do the job, I'm comfortable with it but I'm sure a lot of you aren't!  So this nifty "Tool" definitely deserves a spot in my Eureka Moment Post!

AMW Wore Bohk Toh Lashes  in J-202

Are you ready?  It looks like this!

Eureka Moment: The Best Eyebrow Razor Kit From Nippon

I never thought an Eyebrow Razor Kit would appear in one of my Eureka Moment posts!  I mean, they are all the same right?

WRONG!

Because I met Nippon Esthetics Eyebrow Razor Kit!  It was the best thing that happened to me when I need to shave off stray hairs or when I need to trim/fix my brows!

The KIT looks like this!

Nippon Pro Blend Sponge Review

My love for "Beauty Blenders" will always be there no matter how many packs of "wedge sponges" I consumed!  I still find myself using a "Beauty Blender" or tear-drop shaped sponges for natural-looking makeup with an "airbrush" finish.  

I owned 2 Beauty Blenders(review HERE) and after that, I was able to try out different brands that are similar to Beauty Blenders!  Examples are HD Makeup Blender and Pro Studio Beauty PRO Blend Sponge!  Unfortunately, there are more from brands like Etude House that I haven't tried!  Will definitely keep my eyes open on other brands and will review as much as I can!

Today, let us focus on the Nippon Pro Blend Sponge KIT that I got over the holidays as gift!  Yes, for a set, you get not one but TWO Pro Blend Sponges and a 20ml Pro Blend Sponge!  Finally!  I find myself having a hard time cleaning these hard-headed sponges!