Pammy's blush giveaway

Pammy of Hawaiianpunchie is giving away 2 blushes and a Kryolan anti shine powder sample.
To go to her site, click here.



To answer Pammy's question, my fave blush is MAC's Sheertone Blush in
Dollymix.
I know its scary in the pan, but it goes on sheer if you're using the right brush. I just love how my cheeks looks naturally flushed, think DOLL cheeks =)


Here's the swatch from my previous post:


See, very pretty right?!

Hope I'll win Pammy's contest coz I also love blushes!


Review : Maybelline Angelfit Flawless Natural Liquid Foundation



PRODUCT INFO :
Perfectly hides flaws, not your skin! With Chamomile essence, Royal jelly and Vit. E.
Specially developed to suit Asian women's skin, Maybelline invents Angelfit. Super blendable formula without clogging pores. A natural luminous finish that perfectly fits your skin tone. Non-comedogenic, Dermatogically Tested.

PRICE: Php 299 or about $6

WEIGHT : 18 ml / 0.6 oz.

SHADES:
Available in more than 3 shades.
My shade is N02 (Shell beige), MAC NC20-25 for reference.


WHAT I LIKE:
* doesn't cake on me
*
very lightweight feeling
*
found my match during the first try
* specifically developed for u
s Asians! Yey for that!
*
unscented
* texture is perfect! not runny or sticky
* very affordable
* convenient to carry
* non-comedogenic
(doesn't clog pores)
* dewy finish


WHAT I DON'T LIKE:

* product holds only 18ml compared to Clear Smooth gel which is 30ml.
*
during midday i noticed my face looks dewy (not shiny). I prefer it matte =P

TO USE:
I prefer to use this with a damp sponge or foundation brush. Set with loose powder.

TIPS:
This foundation is quite sheer but evens out my skintone, for a medium coverage set the foundation with loose powder using a puff and gently press the powder onto your skin.

If you want a heavier coverage layer with mineral foundation.
I prefer to apply loose powder first before applying mineral foundation on my face, so that the foundation glides smoothly on my skin.
If you want a dewy look, use a damp sponge in applying. Use a large powder brush to apply a sheer layer of powder for a long lasting finish(optional).

ADDICTION FACTOR:
Will i repurchase? Yes! Yes!
But i wanna try first their Clear Smooth Minerals Liquid foundation SPF 18 in N02 to see which of the two variants suit me.


RATING :
4 out of 5!

SWATCHES:


Maybelline Clear Smooth Gel Foundation in Natural
Maybelline Angelfit Liquid Foundation in N02 (Shell Beige)


Watch out for my Product Review of the Clear Smooth Foundie.. =)


Natural vs. Synthetic Makeup Brushes


**image from Shu Uemura**



Based on my research here's a quick rundown :

SYNTHETIC BRUSHES - they are usually made of Taklon and Nylon.

PRO's:
* very soft
* doesn't smell bad
* good for sensitive skin
* cheaper compared to natural hair

CON's:
* there's pigment fall outs <- is this the correct term?! =P
- i noticed this when applying powder eyeshadow

* they can harden especially when often used with cream products.


NATURAL BRUSHES
- made of goat hair, squirrel hair, horse hair, sable, pony, etc..

PRO's:

* really good in picking up pigments
* the older the better (the hair becomes soft with age)

CON's:

* has a weird smell <-
hey, they're made of animal hair =P
* don't get me wrong, these are soft but not AS soft compared to the synthetic ones
* much expensive
* not advisable for sensitive skin or people allergic to animal hair

According to GoArticles.com:
Natural Hair Makeup Brushes are good for applying Powder based products like loose / pressed powders and blushes.

Synthetic Hair Makeup Brushes are best for Creamy products such as concealers (liquid/cream), liquid foundations, lipstick (for lipbrushes).


HOW I CLEAN MY BRUSHES:
* I wash my face/ powder brushes once a week (deep cleaning).
After each use I wipe them clean with baby wipes.

* For foundation brushes, I wash them every day.

* I use a drop of dishwashing liquid/ baby shampoo, then gently swirl the brush hair on my palm.

* Wash throughly with running water (swirling motion) with the head facing down, so that water will not enter the ferrule (metal part that separates the brushes from the handle).


* I lay them down to dry using a small towel. I prefer to elevate my brushes so that it will dry faster and again, the water will not drip inside and moisten the glue that binds the hair.

* NEVER attempt to blowdry brushes! It will ruin the hair..


References : Greendivamom & GoAsk.com


What Brush hair do you prefer? Let me know! =)

Review : MAC Studiofix Powder plus Foundation


MAC Studiofix in NC25

PRODUCT INFO from MAC's site:
Studio Fix is a powder and foundation in one that combines good coverage with ease of application. Designed to be used dry, the powder and pigments create a matte, velvety texture. Contains Silica, which helps to maintain a matte finish by absorbing oils on the skin, as well as Talc to provide a smoother, matte finish. Long-wearing. Available in a wide range of colours. Can be applied with a brush, sponge, or a powder puff.

PRICE:
Php 1,600 or $26 online (MAC site)

WEIGHT : 15 grams / .52 oz.

SHADES:
Available in 33 shades
N
stands for Neutral skintones
C
stands for Cool skintones
NC
stands for Neutral Cool skintones
NW stands for Neutral Warm skintones
Click here to check out So Kiss and Makeup's post to find out more on how to determine your skin undertone.

WHAT I LIKE:
*
hygenic coz it has a separate sponge compartment
*
love the packaging!
* doesn't cake (on me)
*
NC25 really matches my skintone
* has yellow undertones
perfect for Asians!
*
compact holds a lot of product (some brands have only 12 grams)

WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* i find it expensive!
* there's no MAC store here in Cebu! Tsk! **praying**

ADDICTION FACTOR:
Will i repurchase? Hmm, maybe yes if I have lots of moolah! Lol!
But Maybelline's
Clear smooth powder foundation works just the same on me, but they have limited shades..

I read in Martha's blog that Prestige Wet/Dry Powder is a good dupe. It only costs Php 500! Click here to read her product review.



SWATCHES:

MAC Studiofix Powder Plus Foundation in NC25
MAC Sheer Coverage Foundation in NW20


Did you notice that NW20's undertone is kinda pink, but it matched my skintone (at back of my hand)
I have a neutral undertone so products with yellow or pink undertones.
NC25 also matches my skintone (face) when blended.. Haven't tried the NW20 on my face yet.

From left to right; for shade comparison

MAC blot powder in Light
MAC Sheer Coverage Foundation in NW20
MAC Studiofix in NC25


To check my Product review on MAC's Blot powder, click here.


Review : Maybelline Mineral Power™ Natural Perfecting Concealer


*pic from Maybelline's website*



PRODUCT INFO:
Micro-minerals fully conceal imperfections and under-eye darkness leaving you with naturally flawless, healthy looking skin.
  • All-day natural coverage
  • Won’t clog pores
  • Ophthalmologist tested
  • Contains 0% oil, 0% talc and 0% fragrance


TO USE:
Dot it: Dot creamy coverage onto imperfection or under eyes.
Pat it: Pat with finger to blend.


PRICE:
Php 449.00


SHADES:
Light - Fair, Ivory, Cream Medium - Sand, Beige Dark - Latte, Latte 60
Click here to view swatches.


















I have the Medium-Sand shade. NC20-25 for reference.


WHAT I LIKE:
* unscented
* easy to blend
* buildable coverage
* non-sticky
* the SAND shade has strong yellow undertones to cover my dark circles
* easy to take along
* tube packaging doesn't leak


WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* if weather is hot it tends to fade or cake. Make sure to set it with loose powder after application.


RATING:
* 4 out of 5

Swatches :


From left to right:
Covergirl Age defying concealer in Light Beige

Maybelline Mineral power concealer in Medium sand

VOV Cover foundation in Natural beige
NYX Concealer in a jar in Beige

** Sorry for the blurry pic. Just used my phone cam**

FAKE MAC Cosmetics on Ebay Ph!

BUYERS BEWARE!

There are lots of FAKE MAC Products on E-bay!
And worst, they're claiming its Authentic or Limited Edition!


Okay, Lets start:

Seller no. 1

To confuse buyers, she indicated stated that this product is the Mineralized Foundation from Japan. Obviously, its a FAKE. Just look at the packaging and the sponge!

2 years ago, I purchased this product from a local forum here in Cebu.. At that time, I don't know much about MAC. When I researched online, the Authentic Pro-preffered white powder has a different packaging from this one, and also just look at the sponge! SUPER FAKE!

She's selling this for Php 600 with free shipping. Bought mine before for P350! I never got the change to use it coz I'm afraid it would break me out..


FAKE MAC BLUSHES

One way to know its fake is to check out their shades and also, REAL MAC blushes have Shade Names not Numbers!

Seller No. 1 is selling this for Php 750 with free shipping! Haha..
I'm not from Manila but I read these are priced at Php 50 in Tiangges?!
Correct me if I'm wrong..


Look closely at the back side of the blush, it says "MO3" =P



Moving On..

Here's Seller no. 2, who's selling way overpriced FAKE Items!

Just look at his items..

Obviously this Hello Kitty Palette is FAKE!


FAKE Hello Kitty Lipglasses with Shades 01, 02, 03 etc..


This seller is selling this for a whooping Php 900 each!
Update: its been lowered from Php 1,200!


FAKE HELLO KITTY MASCARA


FAKE HELLO KITTY BLUSHES
with Shade Names 01, 02, 03 etc..



Whew! That's it..
Hope these guys will learn a lesson! Scamming people with their hard earned money!
Is there a way to report them in E-bay?!



Check out these posts from my blogger friends about FAKE Products..

Martha - FAKE HELLO KITTY ITEMS
Pammy - FAKE HELLO KITTY ITEMS
Martha - How to spot product knock-offs
Martha - How to spot FAKE Louis Vuitton


And also, when in doubt, check MAC's website for the Shade Names and Products..


Review : Revlon New Complexion Concealer


*pic from justmeandmybaby (e-bay)*

Bought this from her. I have this in 02 Light/Medium.



PRODUCT INFO:
For the look of perfectly natural skin. Two shades allow you to blend for an exact skin tone match. Buildable coverage to conceal undereye circles, blemishes and imperfections. Oil free, non-pore-clogging, irritant-free.

TO USE:
Apply the shade closest to your skintone. Dab on second shade as needed and blend for a perfect match.

WEIGHT:
Net Wt 0.1 oz/2.8 grams

WHAT I LIKE:
* it has spf 15
* unscented
* 2 shades can be blended for a perfect match
* easy to blend ; buildable coverage
* non-sticky
* small compact

* similar consistency to NYX's Concealer in a Jar
* medium shade matches my skintone

WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* compact contains a small amount of concealer
* turns ashy after 6 hours (note: I didn't use primer)

RATING:
* 4 out of 5

Swatches:

NYX Concealer in a Jar and Revlon's Concealer



Review : Prestige Perfectly Matte Powder in Honey


click pics to enlarge

Align LeftFor comparison, they almost have the same color.
To read my review on Prestige's Touchtone Cream to Powder Makeup, click
here.



PRODUCT INFO from Prestige's website:
Light, translucent coverage. Fine-textured for a natural, even finish. Perfectly matte, smooth finish. Handy to carry for touch-up, pressed powder can also be used to set makeup. Oil free and oil absorbent. Long wearing formula.

PRODUCT WEIGHT: 0.35 oz. / 10 grams

PRICE:
Php 425.00 ,but I got in on sale for less than php 200=)

SHADES:
with MAC Shade equivalent in my opinion

Oatmeal - NC15-20
Honey - NC20-25
Caramel - NC30-35
Cocoa
- NC35-40

WHAT I LIKE:

* goes on sheer
* doesn't cake - perfect for retouching!
* almost no scent at all
* feels lightweight on the face
* not so expensive
* powder is finely milled
* controls oil for about 4 hours (same as MAC Blot)

WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* no puff included

RATING: 4 out of 5.

ADDICTION FACTOR:
Will repurchase after I finish all my pressed powders! =P
If you're looking for an inexpensive powder and wants a sheer coverage, I highly recommend this!
I also wanna try their Wet/Dry Foundation next.. Still waiting for their next sale!



Review : Garnier Light Eye Contour Whitening Cream


click images to enlarge



PRODUCT INFO (from box)


How it is different?

Skin around the eye is extremely thin and fragile and is prone to dark circles, fine lines and dark spots. Daily UVA/UVB rays enhance further darkening on this dedicated area, making your eye contour look dull.

Discover Garnier Light Eye contour whitening cream, with a triple targeted action.


How does it work?

*Associated with massage techniques, Light Eye cream improves eye contour’s micro-circulation to reduce the appearance of dark circles.


*The formula contains anti-UVA/UVB filters (spf 15) to protect the fragile eye zone against harmful daily rays and prevent fine lines.


*It is enriched with pure lemon essence and herbal extract to lighten eye contour and tone down spots.


Dark circles and dark spots are less visible, eye contour skin is smoother and more uniform, luminous with healthy glow. Fragrance free, ophtalmologically tested for optimal tolerance on the delicate eye contour.


Noted efficiency

*Dark circles are reduced: 80%

*Eye contour is immediately smoother : 93%

*self assessment on 40 women



GARNIER LIGHT actives

Herbal extract, from the Chinese pharmacopeia, to help reduce main cause of skin dullness and dark spots and to recover a fair skintone.

Natural Pure Lemon essence is associated with Vitamin C, for its smoothing and brightening properties. For dark circles visibly reduced and skin more homogenous.


Product Weight :
15ml


Price :
Around Php 300

Rating :
3 out of 5

WHAT I LIKE:
* non-sticky
* fast absorbing
* unscented
* affordable
* tube packaging

WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* can't think of any =)

ADDICTION FACTOR:
Been using this eye cream for 2 weeks, haven't noticed any major improvements but I noticed my eye area looks refreshed and my dark circles have lighted a bit. My fine lines are still there, no visible improvement yet, hopefully it will be reduced after I finish the tube. I wanna try their EYE BRIGHTENING Roll-on as soon as this runs out. =)


Review : MAC Blot Powder (Pressed)



MAC Blot powder in Light


Product Info from MAC's site:
A unique pressed powder designed primarily to provide shine control without adding any noticeable colour or texture. Sets foundation, finishes faces. For use in professional situations and for frequent touch-ups. Blot Powder contains Mica and Silica to adsorb excess oils and reduce shine on the skin's surface. Can be applied with the puff that comes in the compact or with a powder brush like #129 Powder/Blush Brush. Perfect for touching up Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation throughout the day.

Product Weight :
12 g / 0.42 US OZ


Price :
US $21.00 or Php 1,050

Shades :
Light, Medium, Medium-Dark, Dark, Deep Dark


WHAT I LIKE:
* the packaging
* the sponge is soft; but I sometimes use my baby buki
* controls oil for about 4 hrs ( use it on my T-zone only) ; my cheeks are dry
* it goes translucent (i use LIGHT, at first i thought its too white for me)
* unscented (i hate products with parfums or strong scents)


WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* expensive for an oil control powder

RATING :
3 out of 5.

ADDICTION FACTOR:
If you don't have super oily skin like me or you find it too expensive, there are cheaper alternatives.

* Pigeon Compact powder - Click here to read Angie's review.
There are 2 kinds of Pigeon powder available in the market. The Mirrorless compact is made in Japan and the other one from Indonesia. The former comes only in white shade and is medicated to prevent pimples and it has collagen and silicon oil to protect babies' sensitive skin too!
The latter comes in 4 shades, white, pink, beige and brown and comes in a oval- square-ish white compact with mirror.
Retails for Php 200+

Pigeon (Japan)
image from Galtak.com


* Shiseido Medicated powder - its also comes in white shade. Its not available in Shiseido counters but you can check Somera stores and E-bay.
Retails for Php 300+

Pic from Ebay.ph


How about you? Have you tried this product?
Let me know what you think =)