Friday, April 29, 2011

The Best Way To End My Day: Home Service Hot Stone Massage


I spent the entire day yesterday walking in heels, standing and travelling for the Pop Talk shoot. So this morning, hello back and leg ache! I was expecting it and all I wanted today is to lie down. Going out to relax in a spa is not an option for me because I don't want to spend another day away from my family just to have "ME" time. 

It's blessing I know someone who's offering a home service hot stone massage. It was so relaxing and I feel very sleepy right now but I got relieved from all the pain I was enduring the whole day so I'll use my minute energy left to share with you guys briefly my first time trying out a hot stone massage.    



Hot Stone Massage

What is a hot stone massage?

Based from my experience, heated stones and oil are the key elements of this type of massage. 


Hot Stone Massage


Hot Stone Massage

The stones used on me are called "volcanic rocks". They feel light and smooth. Ms. Sugz, the masseur, told me that these heated stones help release tight muscles and knots without straining. She heated the stones first with oil then massaged my body using it. This was my favorite part! Perfect tolerable temperature that melted the stress in my back. She left these stones on my body for 30 minutes then massaged my entire body.

Overall, I felt that the hot stone massage relieved my body of the ache faster than with the other traditional massages I've tried. I requested for the eucalyptus oil to be used and it was divine. I always prefer a not too intense massage and Ms. Sugz was able to give it to me. I had plenty of "ayan ang sarap" moments haha. Ok time to rest now! TGIF tomorrow :)


If you want a home service hot stone massage,
you can contact Ms. Sugz at this number 0923-586-38-81






Thursday, April 28, 2011

Paul & Joe's Mother's Day Treat


I get a bit emotional whenever Mother's Day comes because what I could only do now for my mom is to wish and pray that she be happy wherever she is right now. I could just imagine her happy smile if I bring her to a beauty treat like what Paul and Joe will be having for moms for the entire month of May.



Enjoy shopping and get free makeup lessons for the entire month of May at Paul & Joe Rustan's Makati with your mom. You may call 8999331 for reservation. 

If you're looking for a fun bonding activity with your mom, this is it!

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Ellana Minerals' Sheer Velvet HD Mineral Powder: A Dupe of Makeup Forever's HD Microfinish Powder


If you've been reading my blog, you know I'm a fan of HD makeup as the outcome not only looks great in photos but in actual as well. And for finishing powders, I prefer HD (more than anything else), loose finishing powder (as I find it more hygienic than using pressed powders) and translucent (works on every skin tone!). I fell in love first with Makeup Forever's HD Microfinish Powder. It feels light on the skin and it gives a natural, smooth and matte result. However, I found a product that gives me the same effect I covet and the price tag is way cheaper. That is Ellana Mineral's Sheer Velvet High Definition Mineral Powder Primer White Chocolate. I hope the photo comparison below helps:



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Makeup Forever HD Microfinish Powder - $30 (approx Php 1300++) for 10g.

From Sephora:  It is a universal translucent finishing powder to be applied over foundation or worn alone. It works by setting the foundation and slightly mattifies skin without changing its natural contours. This 100% mineral silica powder softens the appearance of imperfections. Completely evens out the complexion for a glowing, radiant look. One universal shade for all skin tones. It's completely translucent and goes on any skintone. Its talc-free formula does not dry the skin.



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It is a finishing powder and powder primer in one. It can be used before you apply your makeup to provide a smooth and silken base to your makeup or for touchups to absorb excess oil.  It's a high definition powder made of 100% silica that comes off pure white but melts on any skin tone.



Ellana White Chocolate HD vs Makeup Forever HD powder

1st row - MUFE
2nd row - Ellana

Cost. You'll get approx 20g of the latter from the price of MUFE.

Ellana White Chocolate HD vs Makeup Forever HD powder
They say Makeup Forever Microfinish HD Powder is super finely milled. Compared to Ellana, I honestly can't see the difference. If ever MUFE is done better, it's hardly noticeable. 


Ellana White Chocolate HD vs Makeup Forever HD powder

1st column: MUFE
2nd column: Ellana

The lighting on the photos is different sorry. But speaking of product performance, both mattifies the skin well, gives beautiful finish, lasts long and looks great on photos.

TIPS:

A very small quantity is needed for both to cover the entire face. Put a small amount on your makeup plate. Then once you have the product on your brush, tap it lightly on the plate for a sheer application.

Do your brush strokes lightly and slowly. Both products are finely milled and can easily spread in the air. It's possible to inhale the product when you buff the brush brusquely which can cause you to sneeze.

The direction of brushing the finishing powder on your face should be downwards (following the direction of your facial hair).

Overall, I like both products. Obviously, I like Ellana better because I save bucks with it. In fact, I've finished 3 6g. of it hehe. But still, I always have the MUFE Microfinish HD powder in my makeup traincase  for my wedding gigs. Some people are just particular with brands and it is so far the best from the high-end brands I've tried.

Have you used them? What do you think?


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Monday, April 25, 2011

Beauty Blender: For Easy, Flawless and Quick Foundation Application


Ever since I've tried applying foundation using the Beauty Blender, my foundation brushes became like abandoned babies :) And that's over a year already. During makeup gigs, I think almost every client I've had asked "What is that pink egg-like thing?" or gave a comment "That's too cute!"


Beauty Blender


I didn't use this for the Easter egg hunt yesterday hihi. For those who doesn't know, this pink egg-like stuff is called a Beauty Blender. It is a reusable makeup sponge applicator. It is defined in the Beauty Blender website as the ULTIMATE makeup sponge applicator created to leave you with a professional finish and a flawless complexion. Invested by top Hollywood make up artist Rea Ann Silva who says that the key to a perfect face is simple: a perfect blend and that applying products using your fingers or sharp-edged triangular sponges may waste makeup and can leave visible streaks.



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Beautyblender’s patent-pending elliptical shape makes application foolproof by allowing you to access hard-to-reach areas with stunning ease. I use the pointed tip to apply product to areas like the sides of the nose and the under eye area. Its suede texture makes it a very gentle applicator to touch the skin as well.




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For the bigger areas, I use the round end to spread the product faster and more even. Its unique curves fit the contours of the face, leaving the make up dazzling and undetectable. Beautyblender is latex free, non-allergenic and odor free.

Tips:





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- Apply the product using the Beauty Blender with a light hand and using a swirling/bouncing motion. This stroke won't drag the product instead it helps the product grasp to the skin and blend well.

- Wet the sponge for sheer coverage and dry for more coverage.

- Wash the Beauty Blender right away after use. Make sure it's completely dry before storing.

- Store in a clean container to avoid bacteria 


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Here's how my skin looks after applying my Graftobian HD foundation with Beauty Blender

After foundation, I use this sponge to apply cream base for contour and blush as well. Here's how I use this for contouring:



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I use the round tip for contouring

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Swirl the sponge lightly under your cheekbones

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I like the natural contour effect it gives


Now how do I clean the Beauty Blender? It is important to clean this right away after use and store it in a sanitized container as oil and dirt from the face and surroundings can easily stick to it. On my first few months of using it, I clean it with Safeguard. It removes stains (not completely though especially if I use it for contour) and it's antibacterial. But when my dad came home last February, he got me the blender cleanser I was eyeing for the longest time:


Beauty Blender



Blendercleanser is a lightly lavender-scented cleanser that’s free of dyes and skin irritants. It’s soothing soy-based, low-suds formula breaks down rapidly, making it earth-friendly and fun to use. Soy has the added benefit of being one of nature’s finest moisturizers, so by all means, clean up with class and do it often.

Cleaning the Beauty Blender is a breeze using it. Though I'm still having difficulty removing stubborn stains with it. I like its light scent and my applicator feels smoother.


Beauty Blender

Here's how my makeup turned out using the Beauty Blender.

beforeafter

1) Clean face with Loreal Revitalift White
2) With foundation on applied using Beauty Blender.
3) Day makeup.


Using it is just a matter of preference because you can achieve the same results using other applicators. I just find it easier and faster applying makeup with it. Also, although it's expensive, you can still save a lot since it's washable when you try to compute the amount you spend on bags of sponges. I've stated the pros and cons :)

What do you think about Beauty Blender?


but Beauty Blender is also available locally at HD Makeup Studio,
Rustan's Department Store and PureBeauty. 

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Love the Voice Love the Makeup: American Idol 2011's Pia Toscano


I have a thing for singing/dancing tv shows and movies. People who know me won't be surprised to know that I've been watching the American Idol show since its Season 5 where Chris Daughtry (one of my favorite performers!) was discovered. hehe. And this year is one of the most exciting season ever! (well...that's only my opinion). I can't even choose my bet because most of the top 10 contestants were good. But I admit, I was a bit saddened when Pia Toscano got eliminated. (but not to the point where I stopped watching the show because my fave was eliminated. Like what happened during Season 5....yes! I get affected like that hahaha!) I believe Pia has what it takes if she would have won. If you're wondering why a lot of people were affected when she was voted out, watch her most outstanding performances on the show below:


Pia Toscano received a standing ovation from the judges and audience on this performance.



"I'll Stand By You" - Pia Toscano


Pia performing "All in Love is Fair"


She's good right? Her great voice is not the only thing that makes her interesting, she's talented in makeup too. She's a New York makeup artist before she joined the AI. Well, I'm not sure if she's the one doing her makeup before she performs but checking out most of her photos, she has this distinct style in her looks.


Pia Toscano

Photo from BumpShack

Face: Flawless and Dewy. One technique to achieve this is to mix your foundation with moisturizer after concealing marks and correcting skin color imperfections.

Eyes: Pia always has this compelling accentuated eyes with black eyeliner.

Cheeks: Subtle rosy color.

Lips: Depends on her eye color.

Brows: Nothing fussy as the focus of her makeup is always on the eyes.

I hope to see more from this lady! Are you watching American Idol? Who do you think will win?

Saturday, April 23, 2011

UPDATE: MAC Magically Cool Liquid Powder Collection Coming This May!


Hi everyone! How's your holidays so far? As for my family, Lenten season is a time of peace and reflection. We chose to stay at home, major house cleaning, relax and pray. Like what I said on my NIVEA post, summer is still long and we still have plenty of time for outings and summer activities as the heat is getting far more intense too! 

But with this kind of weather, isn't it inappropriate to wear those makeup because the sticky and oily feeling of creasing makeup can be very uncomfortable? Well, that's the reason why I was very excited when I got a news on my email that MAC Magically Cool Liquid Powder Collection which was an earlier limited edition is going to be available on all Philippine MAC counters this May!


Sharing you the photos of these remarkable products MAC offers:

MagicallyCoolLiquidPowder_Beauty-300

From MAC - In the height of the summer, who doesn't crave, suddenly, to feel, look AND be cooler - shine, oil and heat - all gone! You've longed for it. And now it's captured: MAC Magically Cool Liquid Powder. An alchemical fusion of water and pigment that goes on as a loose powder but with the refreshing feel of an ocean mist. Light-diffusing pigments add to the appeal by softening lines and creating natural radiance. The cool-to-be-cool way to set and enhance the look of foundation .


MagicallyCoolLiquidPowder_Ambient-300

MagicallyCoolLiquidPowder_Lineup-300

The collection includes the following Magically Cool Liquid Powders (SRP: P1800):

MAC Magically Cool Collection

Truth & Light - Sheer shimmer that reflects silver and pink

MagicallyCoolLiquidPowder_HoneyRose-300
Honey Rose - Sheer rosy beige with multidimensional shimmer
MagicallyCoolLiquidPowder_Cajun-300

Cajun - sheer bronze shimmer that reflects gold

MagicallyCoolLiquidPowder_187DuoFibreBrush-300

And of course! The best brush for the application of these cool liquid powders MAC 187 Duo Face Brush SRP - P2950


It's time to bring out all your cooling agents peeps! What do you think of the collection?


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Friday, April 22, 2011

NIVEA Sun Care: Are You Sun Protected This Summer?


The heat is on! Have you planned your activities for the entire summer already? As for me, even before we felt the intense heat, we've had two summer getaways already. My husband and I love going to the beach. And when we brought our son to Boracay, we noticed that he enjoys the sun too.


Boracay

Boracay 2011

Splash Island

Splash Island 2011


Before hitting Boracay, I bought this Nivea Sunblock Lotion for Kids with SPF 50 PA++. I chose this because it's formulated for children's delicate skin, water-resistant, has high SPF and is safe to be applied on the face. I didn't have bring separate products for us because it's already perfect for my sensitive skin.


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When I was forcing my husband to put on sunblock before going to the water, he said "I can't understand what this Sunblock is for?". Well, for those who doesn't know:


Sunscreen filters the light from the sun so that less of it reaches the deeper layers of your skin. Like a screen door, some light penetrates, but not as much as if the door wasn't present. Sunblock, on the other hand, reflects or scatters the light away so that it doesn't reach the skin at all. The portion of the sunlight that is filtered or blocked is ultraviolet radiation. There are three regions of ultraviolet light.
  • UV-A penetrates deeply into the skin and can lead to cancer and premature skin aging.
  • UV-B is involved in tanning and burning of your skin.
  • UV-C is completely absorbed by the earth's atmosphere.



As for the SPF, it stands for Sun Protection Factor. The number indicated in the packaging (ex. SPF 50) helps you determine the length of time you can stay under the sun before getting a sunburn. Since sunburns are caused by UV-B radiation, SPF does not indicate protection from UV-A, which can cause cancer and premature aging of the skin.

According to Chemistry.Com, your skin has a natural SPF, partially determined by how much melanin you have, or how darkly pigmented your skin is. The SPF is a multiplication factor. If you can stay out in the sun 15 minutes before burning, using a sunscreen with an SPF of 10 would allow you to resist the burn for 10x longer or 150 minutes.

Although the SPF only applies to UV-B, the labels of most products indicate if they offer broad spectrum protection. This NIVEA product I bought offers protection against UVA and UVB.



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Summer is still long so we need to protect our skin every time we get exposed to the sun. Thanks to NIVEA for giving me more supplies this summer!

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

My Current Sheer Pink Lipstick: Paul and Joe 071 Afternoon Delight


I'm loving the pink lipstick I got from Paul and Joe's 4th birthday bash which is part of the Parasol collection launched that day. I have a lot of pink lipsticks but I found myself reaching for this one everyday.


Paul and Joe lipstick Parasol collection


Not only because it's sooo cute to tote around. The girly pink floral packaging is so enticing that you never forget to put it in your purse when choosing the makeup to bring.


Paul and Joe lipstick Parasol collection

Paul and Joe Lipstick 071 "Afternoon Delight"


Paul and Joe Lipstick 071 Parasol Collection

Even the product has a flower encrypted on it.

Paul and Joe Lipstick 071 Parasol Collection



Paul and Joe lipstick Parasol collection

It gives your lips a little shine and hint of pink. Just my kind of color for any normal day. It's moisturizing on the lips too. It doesn't last that long however especially if you're a lipstick eater like me. But I don't mind reapplying this :)


What's your current everyday lipstick? Please share :)

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Tuesday, April 19, 2011

New Pairs of Shoes from Celine!



Good morning! It's a busy Tuesday morning for me so I'm leaving you with a quick post about the shoes my hubby got me for my birthday from Celine.

Celine was my favorite shoe brand when I was in highschool. But it was so long since I owned a pair from them. When I visited their store a few weeks ago, I'm sure glad to still find designs perfect for my taste (not too edgy but chic and comfy). They're inexpensive too. 


I tried my best to capture every details of the pairs I got. Check them out!

Celine Shoes

Celine brown, round toe wedge. I love the details. Looks sturdy too (see the stitches)



Celine Shoes

I like wedges as it adds a few inches to my height and I can still walk comfortably with it.

Celine Shoes

Celine Shoes

Celine Shoes

Celine Shoes


For the second pair, I chose a basic color (again) so it would match most of my clothes.


Celine Shoes


Celine Shoes

Celine Shoes

The soft synthetic material and the attractive patterns is what really made me buy it :) Feels so light when walking.


Celine Shoes



Like it? Enjoy the day peeps!