Review : MAC Mineralized Skinfinish Duo

Got this from swap. Thanks Tracy!

This product is part of the MAC New View Collection which was released last July 2008. Since its Limited Edition (LE) , this product is already discontinued. But I'll review this anyway =P



PRODUCT INFO FROM MAC & SPECKTRA:
Natural and Shimmer. The split personality of powder to sheerly and subtly perfect skin with dimensionality and mineralized starshine. These Mineralize Skinfinish duos are state-of-the-art simplicity, high-resolution finish

The Natural portion of the duo will provide a dimensional yet natural matte-finish, while the shimmer portion will add buffed-up highlights to cheeks and brows, or an overall ultra-deluxe polish to the face. This unique powder contains vitamin A and E derivatives, which help buffer the skin from environmental aggression and jojoba oil, which calms and soothes the skin. This product can be used on face or body and is appropriate for all skin types.

PRICE: $26 or about Php 1,200

WEIGHT : 9 grams or 0.31 US Oz.

SHADES: Available in 5 shades.
Light Medium - Pale golden beige/Warm yellow beige
Medium - Soft creamy beige/Light peachy pink
Medium Dark - Caramel/Light tan
Dark - Deep caramel/Mid-tone yellow gold
Deep Dark - Rich golden bronze/Deep copper bronze


WHAT I LIKE:
* multi-purpose! its a setting powder & highlighter in one compact!
* doesn't change the shade of my foundation
* matte side- offers natural coverage
* doesn't cake even when you retouch several times
* shimmery side - not glittery at all! very fine shimmer
* can be used separately or blended together

WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* compact doesn't have a mirror
* expensive for a setting powder
* matte side doesn't control oil - to think my face is not that oily
* since this powder is baked, be careful not to drop this!





TIPS:
MAC recommended to use a MAC 189 Face brush in applying this product. See pic above. It looks like a foundation brush made with synthetic bristles that has a flat surface with rounded edges. You can use it for pressed powders or cream products. This was launched together with the MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Duo. Retails for $40.

Since I find the 189 brush expensive, I use this brushes:

For the Natural side of the compact, I prefer to use a Kabuki brush from Ecotools to lightly buff the product on my face.

For the shimmery part, I use a fan brush to apply the product on my cheekbones and the bridge of my nose.

Since this is a Setting powder, don't expect it to control oil. You can use MAC Blot Powder to touch up.


ADDICTION FACTOR:
This product is nice, but I wanna try their Mineralized Blushes.

RATING :
4 out of 5!




MAC Mineralized Skinfinish in Light Medium/Natural and Shimmer
(Pale golden beige/Warm yellow beige)

Bare Naturals Stippling Brush - will review this soon..

Review: Lancome Juicy Tubes Ultra Shiny Lip Gloss

These babies deserve a Product review. Lancome JT is my one of my fave lipgloss brand.

Lancome Juicy tubes in Cherry Burst (smoothie), Peche and Marshmallow



PRODUCT INFO FROM LANCOME:
A delicious, gourmet delight for your lips! This ultra-brilliant, flavoured gloss slicks on easily, thanks to its handy tube-tip applicator. Totally transparent shine, plus a hint of shimmering colour makes lips glisten for a glamorous lacquered effect.

PRICE: Php 1,200 or about $25

WEIGHT : 15 ml

SHADES: Available in more than 5 shades


WHAT I LIKE:
* very shiny!
* not as sticky as MAC lipglasses
* stays on for about 4 hours

* pigmented (Marshmallow and Cherry Burst)
* love the tube applicator is hygenic compared to wand types

* 15 ml tube holds a lot of product (compared to MAC lipglass' )
* love the fruity smell

WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* some are pigmented, some are not (Peche)
* much expensive compared to MAC


TIPS:
Can be worn alone or layered with your lipstick.


ADDICTION FACTOR:
Not for now. Still have a lot of lipglos tubes to finish.

RATING :
4 out of 5!


Swatches


Peche - shimmery peach
Marshmallow - blue based candy pink
Cherry Burst - reddish pink


TGIF!

Happy Friday everyone!
Just want to share my recent purchase. I ordered an Eyeshadow Primer with Eyeliner brush from All Natural Face.


**pic borrowed from Donnarence**


Thanks to Donnarence of MyLucidIntervals for posting!

I'm so lucky I got the last piece! So excited to try this Eye primer since its my first time to use one.
I only use a Concealer topped with Skinfood buckwheat loose powder, then Ellana's Eyeshadow in Hush (as base) to even out my eye area prior to applying eyeshadow.
I can say it worked coz my eyeshadow didn't crease the whole day (or maybe my lids aren't that oily?!)
My only concern is that I want my eyeshadow colors to look vibrant. After seeing Donnarence's before and after pics of her eyeshadow with and without primer, I'm convinced to try this one.


It only costs $4 for the Eye primer and brush and only $1.25 for shipping! Quite a steal huh?! Hopefully the seller will also include freebies.. *wink, wink*

Check out her Vegan Mineral Makeup and Brushes
here.

Sigh... I still have to wait for another 2 months to receive my order!

I also ordered NYX glosses and lippies from Ms. Cuppycakes last August, hopefully it will arrive 2nd week of October. Martha and Shobe , I know you guys are excited na rin ! hehe

Review: Maybelline Clear Smooth Gel Foundation



PRODUCT INFO :
Water-based formula gives skin a light and fresh sensation. Controls shine for an all day perfect and healthy-looking complexion. Evens out skintone and covers imperfections.
Feels soothing and cares for your skin with Chamomile, Aloe and Vit. E.
100% Oil free.
Fragrance-free.
Allergy tested.
Dermatologist tested.

PRICE: Php 350 or about $7

WEIGHT : 30 ml / 1.01 fl. oz.

SHADES:
Available in 4 shades
#12 - Natural
#14 - Sand
#22 - Natural Beige
#24 - True Beige


My shade is Natural #12, MAC NC20-25 for reference. This is the lightest shade available now. I tried using #11 shade, but its already phased out and its too light for me.

WHAT I LIKE:
* my HG for liquid foundations. I like this better than Angelfit Liquid!
* unscented ( a must for me!)
* non-greasy because of gel formula
* suits normal - combination - oily skin
* non-drying - i have dry cheeks
* medium coverage (Angelfit has sheer but buildable coverage)
* a 30 ml bottle lasts for about 3 - 6 mos! I alternate this with my other foundations.
* not expensive
* covers slight imperfections without looking cakey or mask-like


WHAT I DON'T LIKE:

* doesn't have SPF
* it dries easily, making it hard to blend (if you're using fingertips)

TIPS:
I prefer to use this with a damp sponge coz its much easier to blend and it doesn't dry up that fast.. I use this technique for all my liquid / cream foundations. If you want to use a foundation brush, make sure to blend the foundation quickly.

EDIT: And also don't forget to moisturise first so that the foundation will glide on your skin. Since it doesn't have SPF make sure to use one that has SPF.
Now I'm loving Hype's Glutha-C SPF 25 moisturiser. It has Vitamin C and Glutathione.
Will review this soon..


ADDICTION FACTOR:
Will i repurchase? Of course! I'm on my nth tube now! =)

RATING :
5 out of 5!


Swatches ( took this from my previous post)


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

Click here for my Product Review of the Angelfit Liquid Foundation.


Spend Vs. Save : MAC Dessert Rose Blush

Looking for a dark pink powder blush? Read on..



MAC Blush in Desert Rose (matte) - Php 1,200.00
NYX Blush in Desert Rose - Php 350.00


When applied with a light hand, both really gives me a flushed look.
The NYX blush isn't powdery and staying power is as good as MAC.


Tip for Fair skintones
Warning! Both are really pigmented.
You only need to TAP your brush once or twice.
Make sure to apply with a stippling blush or a kabuki brush, or you'll end up looking like a clown.




Swatched on NC20-25 skintone

As you can see, NYX's blush is more pink, while MAC is pinky brown.
When applied to my cheeks, I really can't tell the difference between the two.


Gem's first giveaway contest..

G-lish trio eyeshadow
Clinique black mascara
Clinique lipstick in Berrylicious
Estee Lauder lip gloss
Elianto nail polish
G-lish mosaic blush powder
Blue eyeliner
Bag!

Mechanics:
1. You MUST be a follower of her blog.
2. Copy the image and post it together with the mechanics on your blog.
Don't forget to link back!
3. Leave a comment on her post saying "I'm in!

Good luck to us! =)


Happy 26th birthday dear Shen!


Since its her birthday, she will be having a birthday contest..

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The Mechanics

Open to all Philippine-based readers/bloggers as long a you meet the following criteria:

1. You must be a follower of Shensaddiction.com blog
2. You must have an active and legitimate blog, running not less than 3 months. (not necessarily a beauty blog)
Active, meaning you are posting regularly for the past three months.

To join, write the following at the comment section:
1. Answer: What's the best memory you have of your mother?
2. Type in your Name and Blog Address (no emails please. if you have a legit blog, it means I can contact you. I also don't want to be a weapon of spammers online. hehehe!)
3. Spread the news of this contest via your website. Please link or repost of this post.


******************
The Prizes:

Align CenterAren't the bracelets cute?! I think Shen made it herself..
Been wanting to try Maybelline's Cat eye mascara..

Good luck to those who joined.. =)



Review : Caviar Blemish Balm (Premium Gold)


*Click to enlarge, pic taken from EyeloveBeauty website*

Thanks to Ms. Lami for giving me a sample size to try.


Product Info from Bare Naturals website:

TRIPLE PREMIUM CAVIAR BB CREAM
Luxurious BB cream that is based on the fruits of the sea: caviar, the unique combination of bio-stimulators, vitamins, micro-elements and amino acids assures luxurious care for your face.

WHY CAVIAR?
Caviar is a combination of proteins, low glycemic carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids. It gives better muscle tone which can lead to less skin sagging, rendering caviar a perfectly natural facelift ingredient..

Benefits:

The skin will glow with youthful look.
It will make the skin firm and gives the skin a satin- look.
Replaces the tired skin of moments ago to new glowing skin.
Re-hydrate dry skin, rejuvenate.
Leaves skin luminous, rested and radiant.

Manufactured in Korea.


WEIGHT : 50 ml (regular) & 5ml (sampler)

PRICE: Php 1,399 for the 50 ml - Intoductory price
Php 208 for the 5ml samples

SHADES: Only 1 shade available (olive-beige) that adjusts to any skintone.
See pic below.


WHAT I LIKE:
* non-sticky, absorbs fast after application
* product is kinda dark at first but adjusts to my skintone
* doesn't cake
* my face doesn't look shiny after application
* lightweight on the face
* evens out my skintone


WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* I prefer BB creams with a medium coverage.
* Doesn't cover blemishes coz this has the coverage of a tinted moisturiser.


TO USE:
I use my fingertips to apply BB Creams.

TIPS:
You can also use a foundation brush. Set with loose powder (optional). Skip this step if you want a dewy finish.

ADDICTION FACTOR:
Still have 2 tubes of Skinfood BB creams to finish..

RATING :
4 out of 5!

WHERE TO BUY:
At barenaturals.multiply.com


Swatches


Skinfood BB Creams (Gingko Green & Mushroom)
vs.
Premium Gold Caviar BB Cream

Mio, a little boy who needs help!



Please spread the word! Let's help in any way we can..

Go to www.miofightscancer.com for more details.

Our own little ways can help save a little boys life..


Just for fun..

Hubby took pics of the following while baby is asleep. He's a newbie photographer, still practicing with angles and different lightings..



Jessie Glova 15 pc. Concealer Palette

Click here for my review.



My Brush Collection


MAC Adoring Carmine Set

This is a replica, but its still soft & doesn't bleed.



Random Face Brushes for powder, blush & foundation

From Ellana, Bare Naturals, Ecotools, Everyday Minerals etc..

He forgot to take pics of my other brushes =)

******************
Click here for my Ecotools brush set review
and here for Everyday Minerals brush review.

Bare Naturals Brush set review coming soon..


Eyeshadow, eyeliner & concealer brushes

From Ecotools, Lancome, Bare Naturals, ELF, Life & Companion etc..



My Lippies Collection


Mostly from MAC, NYX, Lancome, Maybelline, Revlon, etc..

********************

Reviews coming soon..

Bare Naturals deluxe brush set
Maybelline Clear smooth gel foundation
Premium Gold Caviar BB Cream


SweetShuGaHon's MAC Giveaway..


She's giving away 4 MAC products of your choice.
Click to go to SweetShugaHon's contest rules.
Contest ends September 25th.

Good luck to us! =)


Review : Magic Hair Removal Wand (MHRW)


* pic taken by me, don't have time to watermark*


*pic borrowed from MHRW's Multiply site*


Product Info from leaflet:
The Magic Hair Removal Wand is a simple device for removing unwanted facial hair without waxing, bleaching, tweezing or shaving. When used properly, the wand removes facial hair by the roots quickly and effectively. Each wand comprises of a spring made of nickel-plated carbon steel and plastic handles on each end. Approximately 7.5 inches long.
Comes with instructions on proper use and care.
Made in China.

Directions - Bend and Roll
1. Bend the wand downward like an inverted U and place against your face where there is unwanted facial hair. Hold the handles using thumbs, index and middle fingers.
2. Roll or turn the handles inward and outward between your fingers in a continous motion. You will feel a tingling sensation as hair is being lifted by the roots.

Move the Magic Hair Removal wand over the the same area again and again, constantly rolling and turning the handles between your fingers until all the hair is removed. All it takes is just a couple of times to get the hang of the wand. Remember, practice makes perfect! If you are not used to removing hair by the roots, you may experience some sensitivity while the hair is being lifted. With regular use, your skin will get accustomed and sensitivity will lessen.

USEFUL TIPS
Always check to see that your skin is not damp or oily before using the Magic Hair Removal wand. When removing hair from the upper lip, stretch skin by pushing outwards with your tongue to maximize the effectiveness of the wand. This exercise can be repeated when removing hair from the cheeks or below the lips. Make sure that you keep the wand bent in an inverted U as you use it and that you roll the wand against the direction of the hair growth.

FREQUENCY OF USE
Frequency of use of the wand will vary from person to person. It can take anywhere between 3 days to 4 weeks before having to use it again. Hair does not need to be fully grown to use the MHRW.


For use only on the upper lip, chin, cheek and neck areas. Do not use on eyebrows, bikini area or any areas not specified..


WHAT I LIKE:

* inexpensive compared to going to the salon every week for threading
* removes hair from the roots
* longer growth time compared to shaving


WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* really painful if you're not used to threading/plucking
* you need a LOT of practice! =P Took me several minutes before I figured out how to properly use this.
* can irritate your skin (redness & bumps), but it does go away after a few minutes

TIPS:
*
before using make sure to cleanse, tone and moisturise. Its important that your skin is clean to prevent bacteria from growing. Make sure skin is dry before using.

ADDICTION FACTOR: Yes, will repurchase!

RATING: 3 out of 5.

WHERE TO BUY :
At magichrwand.multiply.com


PRICE: Php 280.00


Happy day!

At last, got my Bare Naturals brush set today. Been waiting for this baby for almost 2 months, since the pouches got delayed.. I'm so glad they're here already!


Here's my babies

Ms. Lami included freebies such as 4 eyeshadow samples, a BB cream sample (can't wait to try this since the only brand I tried is Skinfood), and a Velveteen Bar (Emu oil perfecting soap) sample.


Tadaa...


What's inside the pouch

Bare Naturals Deluxe Brush set
Php 998.00


Been purchasing a lot of brushes lately, will post my brush collection soon.

**************

And also, I'm excited to try this new product:

Magic Hair Removal Wand

Reviews coming soon.. Bye for now!


Review : Jessie Glova Concealer Palette

Looking for an inexpensive alternative for Make Up For Ever's Concealer palette? Read on..


Introducing Jessie Glova's 15 pc Concealer / Corrector Palette

It has several shades of skintone color concealers for you to mix and match. The palette also has
Color correctors to neutralize problem areas.

Yellow : Neutralize dark circles (can be worn alone or under concealer)
Green: Neutralize red (such as pimples)
Lavender : To correct sallow skin
Orangey-beige : for dark circles / freckles; use on top of a lighter toned concealer

Photo by : Joseph Ong



The 2 colors are dupes of NYX's Concealer in a jar in Light & Beige
Since I already sold my Medium concealer since its dark on me, i think its kinda similar to the other color in the palette.



WHAT I LIKE:
* goes pigmented and blends easily
* looks natural
* very creamy
* inexpensive for 15 shades of concealer
* handy to carry (palette size is 4 x 6 inches)
* has a thick consistency (a little product goes a long way)
* several shades to match ANY skintone
* can be used for contouring
* has no makeup smell.. yey!


WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
* can be cakey if not set with powder


TIPS:
* warm the concealer by dabbing a little product at the back on your hand using your fingertips and gently PAT (not rub) on the desired area. Layer until you achieve the coverage you want. Set with loose powder.


ADDICTION FACTOR:
I think this palette will last me a LONG time.. maybe a year? =)

RATING: 4 out of 5.

PRICE: Php 700.00



SWATCHES:
click to enlarge

See its very pigmented & thick, but once blended it really looks natural.
Swatched on NC 20 skin for reference

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By the way, don't forget to check out my friend Nikki of Askmewhat's for her Product Review of our Neutral palette. Click here.