Review : Glambox Mink Lashes


PRODUCT INFO FROM GLAMBOX:
Mink lashes that were once custom-made for exclusive celebrities like Oprah and Madonna are now available for every Filipina to experience!

Soft, lightweight, velvety, flexible and natural-looking, every GlamBox Mink Lash gives you the look and feel of luscious celebrity lashes.
GlamBox Mink Lashes are made from individually selected mink furs that have been harvested by gently brushing live farm animals. (We are very animal friendly!) They are not chemically treated or dyed to ensure the velvet appearance that can only be found in mink fur.

GlamBox Mink Lashes are 100% real mink fur and are 100% handmade. They are sterilized and are hypo-allergenic. Falsies can be used 15-20x with proper care. Comes with a small complimentary tube of eyelash glue.


RETAIL PRICE: Php 1,500.00

WHERE TO PURCHASE: www.glamboxairbrush.com

PROS:
* easy to use; took me less than 10 minutes to attach the falsies
* lash band doesn't hurt the corners of my eye unlike other false lashes
* comfortable to wear; doesn't feel heavy at all!
* falsies made of soft mink hair and looks really natural (see photo below)


CONS:
* lashes are a bit long for my chinky eyes, so I have to cut the ends to fit my eyes.
* the free latex glue already dried up, but no worries since I used my unbranded eyelash glue from China.
* expensive - but if you'll be able to use this for 15-20 times then its worth it!


APPLICATION TIPS:

Curl lashes, apply black eyeliner and mascara before attaching the mink lashes. Retouch eyeliner if needed to hide the lash band. Make sure to attach the falsies close to your natural lash line.

ADDICTION FACTOR:
I only use false eyelashes on special occassions and pictorials and I think I won't be needing a new one soon since this will last me a long time with proper care.

RATING : 4 / 5


More pics (click photo to enlarge)

Glambox Mink Lashes when worn

it looks really natural noh?!

vava-voom doll-like lashes!

I'm not wearing contacts btw. LOL

Are you a fan of false eyelashes?


Disclaimer: Product was sent for review purposes.
This is not a paid review and is solely based on my honest opinions.

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

And by the way, only 2 more days till my GIVEAWAY ENDS.
Click HERE if you want to join.


Till next time,


Spend vs. Save : NARS blush in Angelika


Spend: NARS Blush in Angelika - Php 1,350 (Rustans)
Save: The Face Shop Color Nuance blush in PK103 - Php 395

Angelika is described as a "Cotton candy pink with gold particles"... weird coz the particles looks silver to me =P
They look shimmery on the pan but hardly noticeable when applied (see swatches).


TEXTURE & FINISH:
Both have silver shimmers, but Angelika's texture is much finer than TFS.

COLOR - PAY OFF :
Angelika - really pigmented; i only have to TAP my brush once or twice for it to show up on my NC20 skintone.
PK103 - sheer but buildable color

STAYING POWER :
I adore NARS blushes coz of its staying power, they last for more than 6 hours on me.

TFS on the other hand, lasts for around 4 hours (if I don't sweat)


Swatches
click photo to enlarge
Left: The Face Shop Blush in PK103
Right: NARS Blush in Angelika


They look similar in their respective pans but once applied PK103 looks cooler & less shimmery than Angelika.


FINAL THOUGHTS:
If you're looking for an inexpensive cool toned pink blush, I highly recommend PK103.


Till next time,

Review : Montagne Jeunesse Cherry Tonic Mask

PRODUCT INFO:
Relax and let the zing of crushed extract of Cherry and Aloe vera give your complexion a real lift. The invigorating and refreshing active fruit fusion will leave your skin clean, soothed and moisturised.

TO BENEFIT: Remove makeup and cleanse skin, remove and unfold mask, detach material from mouth section and place over nose. Lean back, relax and pat down for maximum contact. Leave to work for 5-10 minutes and enjoy the uplifting experience. Remove, gently massage in excess tonic. Splash face with cool water. Pat dry.

WARNING: Natural ingredients may vary in colour. Like all toiletries, these masques are best kept out of reach of children. Avoid eyes. Test for irritancy before use.

Contains: Noni fruit juice, Bitter cherry extract, licorice root extract, Aloe vera leaf juice

RETAIL PRICE: Php 70+


PROS:
* affordable and easy to use
* gives a refreshing, cooling sensation
* the mask covered my entire face
* durable cloth like material w/ cute cherry print
* did not make me itch, no allergies
* mask doesn't dry out easily and its still moist after 10 mins.
* the mask really smells like cherries!
* my skin felt refreshed, firm and moisturised!


CONS:
* I experienced a slight tingling sensation the first time I've used it. For people with sensitive skin, better test this first if you're not allergic to it.


TIPS:

Do not leave mask on face for more than 10 mins.
After drying your face, follow with your night cream/moisturiser and eye cream.


ADDICTION FACTOR:
I already used the 2nd pack of this mask and so far I can say I'm hiyang with it...

RATING : 4.5 / 5


More pics (click photo to enlarge)
Cute cherry printed mask

Me in my pantulog outfit LOL =)


Disclaimer: Products were sent for review purposes.
This is not a paid review and is solely based on my honest opinions.



Till next time,


Review: Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation

After reading tons of mixed reviews about this foundie, I decided to try it for myself. Bought this from my friend Emily =) She said the finish is similar to her MAC Studio fix fluid, that's why she decided to sell this.


PRODUCT INFO FROM REVLON:
Want makeup that is flawless and weightless for 16 perfect hours? Revlon® has the solution - ColorStay™ Makeup with SoftFlex™. Specially formulated for combination or oily skin, this oil-free formula helps control shine all day and gives you flawless looking skin. Makeup looks fresh and feels great for up to 16 hours thanks to the lightweight, comfortable feel from the Patented SoftFlexColorStay™ formula.

RETAIL PRICE: Php 825 or around $18.

WEIGHT : 30 ml


SHADES : Available in more than 5 shades.


PROS:
* inexpensive
* good in oil control. I only have to blot the tip of my nose once during the day =)
* medium to full coverage depending of the method of application & tools used.
* gives a matte, flawless finish.
* didn't fade/cake even if I sweat
* feels lightweight


CONS:
* it has no pump =P sometimes I end up pouring a lot of product.
* has a slight weird smell - but disappears after a few minutes after application.
* foundie is difficult to remove with facial wash alone, may cause breakouts if not removed properly.
* since this product is intented for Oily/Combination skin, after removing the foundation I noticed my skin felt dehydrated, that's why I use a heavy moisturiser after cleansing and toning. Too bad the Dry/Normal variant is not locally available.


TIPS:

For Medium coverage - spritz your face with water or Evian before applying Colorstay with a damp/dry sponge. Thanks Heatherette for the tip!

For Full coverage - apply using a foundation brush or sponge. Check out this video from GLINTZY for more tips on how to cover pimples, scars etc.


ADDICTION FACTOR:
Since I have normal skin, I prefer Revlon's Photoready foundation coz of the glowing effect it gives me, but I still use this foundation on special occassions...
On normal days (in the office), I just use Dr. Jart BB Cream or Maybelline Clear Smooth Minerals Liquid foundation.
For oily skinned gals, I highly recommend this but my advice is NOT to use it daily to avoid clogging your pores.

RATING :
2.5 / 5

More pics (click photo to enlarge)
Revlon Colorstay Foundation in Buff

Swatch
Buff matches my NC20 skintone.



Till next time,

Review : Clinique Derma White Brightening Moisture Gel Cream

*Photo borrowed from Clinique*

PRODUCT INFO FROM SASA.COM:
Contains intensified Black-out Yeast complex combined with skin fortifying concentrate. It goes beyond brightening to strengthen skin's resistance to future darkening. It helps visible reduce dark spots and discolorations and brings new clarity to the skin.
Hydrating, refreshing, oil-free. For oily and combination skin.

RETAIL PRICE: Php 2,050.00

WEIGHT : 30 ml

PROS:
* unscented
* gel-cream is easily absorbed
* moisturizes my face without the greasy/sticky feeling
* didn't break me out
* no peeling or stinging sensation
* feels refreshing
* my face didn't get shiny after an hour or so.
For reference, I have Normal skin with slightly oily t-zone.

CONS:
* this is nice for summer but in the colder months, I need a heavy moisturiser like their Dramatically Different Moisturiser which I've tried before.
Note: I only use this during nighttime since it doesn't contain SPF.

* I didn't notice it lightened my discolorations - but the sample only lasted me for 2 weeks so I can't really tell.

ADDICTION FACTOR:
This is a nice product but I find it expensive haha. Yes, I'm really kuripot (stingy) when it comes to skincare... My day and night moisturisers only costs less than Php 500 each LOL but I'm really hiyang with them.

RATING :
3 / 5
Swatches

not yet blended

When blended.
The gel cream is totally absorbed.


Till next time,

Review: The Face Shop Color Nuance Blush


The Face Shop Color Nuance Blush in PK102 & PK103

PRODUCT INFO
FROM THE FACE SHOP:

Natural looking powder blush for all skin type and complexion. It is formulated with silicon elastomer to provide a silky feel and soft texture. It also contains sebum-control powder and coating pigment to provide long-lasting color. Color stays as it is.

RETAIL PRICE: Php 395.00 or about $9.

WEIGHT : 4 grams

SHADES : Available in more than 5 shades.

PROS:
* inexpensive
* sleek packaging similar to Shu Uemura's Glow-on blushes
* sheer but buildable color
* easy to blend
* lasts for more than 4 hours (if I don't sweat)
* this is shimmery but looks natural on me
* does not look chalky when applied
* smooth texture

CONS:
* limited shades available in Cebu City. I asked my sister in Manila to buy this for me and she bought these in different TFS outlets.


TIPS:
The PK102 shade can also be used as highlighter and it works best when used with a bronzer since the shade is a bit light.
To contour your cheekbones, apply bronzer first using an angled brush starting at the outer part of your face (near the ear) using inward strokes.
Using a different blush brush (so that the blush & bronzer shades won't mix) apply blush at the apples of the cheeks then blend using outward strokes.
Please note that the placement of the contour powder/bronzer depends on your face shape, you can search Youtube for a detailed tutorial.


ADDICTION FACTOR:
I'm in love with the colors and I think this will last me a long time.

RATING :
5 / 5

More pics (click photo to enlarge)

The Face Shop Color Nuance Blush in PK102

The Face Shop Color Nuance Blush in PK103

Swatches
PK102 - baby pink with slight shimmers
PK103 - cool toned medium pink with silver shimmers

My favorite between the two is PK103.
It looks so shimmery on the pan but the glitters fall out once applied.


Till next time,

Quick Post: Shopcoholic's Birthday month! (CONTEST CLOSED)


I will be celebrating my 28th birthday this Oct. 16, 2010 and my daughter's 2nd birthday on the 14th. As a way of thanking my readers I will be having this mini contest where at stake is a 1 pc. 88 Metal eyeshadow palette valued at Php 950. It's so easy to join:

MECHANICS:
1. Comment with your name & email address.
2. Location

3. Must be a follower via Google connect, Twitter, Facebook, or subscribed via email.
Note: Steps 1 - 3 entitles you to 1 entry.

To gain additional points:
4. Retweet this contest (additional 1 point)
5. Repost this contest on your blog with a link back to my blog (additional 3 points)

Sample entry:
1. khymm (email@yahoo.com)
2. Cebu City

3. followed your blog via google/twitter as "username"
4. twitter url post
5. blog post URL

Contest starts now and ends on November 2, 2010.
ONE winner will be chosen via Random.org.

Sorry this is open to Philippine residents only =)



Goodluck everyone!!!

Review: The Balm Timebalm Anti-wrinkle Concealer

The Balm Timebalm concealer in Light Medium

PRODUCT INFO FROM THE BALM:
Use this uniquely smooth anti-wrinkle concealer all day to cover dark circles and protect your delicate eye area from environmental stress. Apply to clean face before you go to bed to fight wrinkles while you sleep and wake up looking fab. Timebalm is packed with beneficial ingredients including Vit. A, C, E, Soybean oil, Panthenol, Linoleic acid and Phospolipids to help you look absolutely stunning around the clock.

RETAIL PRICE: Just bought this from a friend, but I think this costs between Php 700-800+.

WHERE TO BUY : Beauty Bar stores

WEIGHT : 7 grams

SHADES : Available in 6 shades.

PROS:
* offers medium to full coverage. Really covers imperfections!
* did not fade or crease throughout the day (when set properly)
* does not settle into fine lines
* a little amout goes a long way.
* made of natural ingredients
* pot contains a LOT of product.
I think this little guy will last me a long, long time.

CONS:
*
no spf. MAC studiofinish has Spf 35.
* packaging not hygenic.
* can get cakey after a few hours if not blended & set properly.
* texture is kinda dry at first but after warming the concealer it goes smooth and easy to blend.
* has a slight herbal scent but disappears after a few minutes after application

TIPS:

Since this concealer has a dry texture, apply eye cream first to hydrate the undereyes. I prefer to use my fingertips in applying since our body heat helps warm up the concealer. Apply a thin layer at a time and gently "pat" until the product blends with your skintone. Set with powder.

I sometimes alternate this with my MAC Studio Finish NC20 to cover my dark undereye circles & redness on the sides of my nose.
Note: For my undereyes I use a corrector first then layered with a neutral toned or yellowish concealer to brighten.

ADDICTION FACTOR:
Will not repurchase for now. I have enough concealers to last me for 5 years! LOL But I still love this next to MAC Studio Finish.

RATING :
4 / 5

Swatch (click photo to enlarge)
The Balm Timebalm concealer in Light Medium

Left : Ben Nye Blue Neutralizer NB-01
Center : The Balm Timebalm Concealer in Light Medium
Right: MAC Studio Finish Concealer NC20

As you can see Light Medium matches my NC20 skintone.
I used the LIGHT shade before but it looks ashy coz of the pinkish undertone, unlike Light Medium that has a slight yellow undertone but not as yellow as MAC NC20.

Swatches of other shades:
TRIVIA: Did you know that TheBalm Cosmetics just started 5 years ago. The owner Marissa Shipman purchased a few books at Amazon.com on creating makeup and began experimenting. She succesfully mixed her own lip balm, and TheBalm was born.

Timebalm Concealer was voted on The View as the number #1 concealer for dark circle coverup.

Marissa's Makeup Tip: Never turn to concealers that clog pores and inhibit cell turnover. Instead, go for natural products that go on smoothly, without causing potencial damage to your face.
*Source: Preview Magazine Sept 2010 issue.


Till next time,