Mario Badescu - Drying Lotion

I am sure many of you have heard of Mario Badescu's Drying lotion, a favorite and a "life-saving" product for so many. It helps to keep breakouts at bay and zaps those bumps before turning into a full blown pimple.

My skin has tendencies to be problematic at times so I decided to purchase this after reading so many raves about it.

Ingredients: Isopropyl alcohol, Aqua, calamine, Camphor,
colloidal sulfur, salicylic acid, glycerin, talc, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide

You're supposed to wait for the pink substance to settle in the bottom of the bottle, get a q-tip and dip. Apply the pink substance on your blemishes and leave it on. I did this nightly, because well I dont want to look like a dalmatian.

For a week, I did this. Applied on little bumps here and there...And what did I get out of it? I broke out!! I kid you not, it made my skin much worse. It was not like other creams where it made the area where I applied it extremely dry, but I noticed I ended up with more bumps on areas where I applied the drying lotion.

Mind you, this isnt exactly cheap. It costs 1,095 pesos and you get about half a bottle worth of the pink substance. I couldve gone with panoxyl instead! haha. A friend told me, to give it more time so I did and uhhhh it isn't working at all!! What a waste!


So there you go...Just because you read on someones blog that something worked for them, it does not mean that it will work for you!

Product Review: Himalaya Herbals

Hello, back as promised haha. Im going to review two skin care products that I've been trying for more than a month. Took me a while to review these products because I wanted to make sure I got at least a month in of trying them. These products are from Himalaya Herbals, a range of natural, effective and safe products that use rare herbs carefully selected from the foothills of the Himalayas.

I first purchased the Neem foaming face wash when I was looking for a product that would help when my skin got irritated and flaky after I tried using the Lulur bar. My skin is kind of sensitive, so I have to watch what I use or else it tends to act up or worse break out!

Anyway, on to the review!! :D

Left: Neem Foaming Face Wash;
Right: Purifying Mud Pack

Purifying Mud Pack

What it claims:
Firms, tihtens and rejuvenaes the facial skin and keeps it young. Imparts a natural glow. A mineral rich Mud Pack that absorbs excess oil, cleans clogged pores and removes blackheads and deeply embedded impurities. Restores your skin's elasticity and improves skin texture. Helps control blemishes and blackheads and minimises wrinkles.

The ingredient Fuller's Earth deep cleanses the skin and has cooling properties. Walnut removes skin impurities, blakheads and dead cells. Mineral Clay heals, improves circulation and makes the skin soft and supple.
Directions:
Mx the pack with water to make a thin paste. Apply evenly over a cleansed face and neck, avoiding area around the eyes. Allow to dry 10-15 minutes. Remove with wet sponge, and wash the skin with cool water. Use once or twice a week. Follow up with Himalaya Herbals Face Moisturizing Lotion

Ingredients:
Mineral Clay, Fuller's Earth, Khu-khus, Walnut, aqua, glycerin, bentonite, methyl paraben, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1, 3-diol. Sodium EDTA, Xanthan gum, Sodium lauryl sulphate, Fragrance

What I like about it:
- I like that my skin feels tight after. Not tight like its super dry, but it's almost like I can feel my pores closing up.
- My face feels squeeky clean after washing it off.

What you should consider:
- I wouldnt say that this mask helps keep breakouts at bay or gets rid of blackheads or impurities.
- I avoid applying this on areas of my skin which are sensitive or my dry areas (chin, mouth area)


Overall, I think it's a so-so product. Im not really impressed with it, ill probbly keep using it since I dont want it to go to waste but I wouldn't repurchase.





Neem Foaming Face Wash

what it claims:
Soap free daily use gentle foaming face wash to cleanse and refresh your skin without over drying. Leaves your skin clear, soft and supple. The soft and gentle foam of Neem foaming face wash spreads smoothly over your face and deep cleanses your skin by removing excess oil and impurities. Unlike soaps, Neem foaming face wash does not leave the skin dry and feeling stretched. Neem and Tumeric well known for their purifying functions, clear facial skin of blemishes

Directions:
Moisten face and spread foam gently all over face. Wash off and pat dry.

Ingredients:
Neem, Tumeric, Vetiver, Aqua, BHT, Citric Acid, Cocamidopropyl betaine, Dimethicone copolyol, Disodium EDTA, DMDM hydantoin, Perfume Floraherb inde, polypropylene terephthalate, Polysorbate 20, Sodium laureth sulfate, CI No. 19140 & CI. No. 42090

What I like about it:
- Its light but at the same time it cleanses the face very well. I usually have to wash my face twice whenever I remove my makeup because I fell like it doesnt really get rid of the makeup, but with this one, I see all the makeup it removes as soon as I spread it on my face.
- Its very gentle and non drying.
- It helped get rid of my flaky and patchy areas of my skin.
- I like that it comes with a pump that makes it more sanitary


Im on my second bottle and will definitely repurchase when I run out again!


It's always a hit or miss whenever trying out new products. I purchased the mud pack after I finishedmy first bottle of the foam wash thinking it would deliver as well. Have any of you tried any of these? How do you like em? Any suggestions for a great mask? :D

Product Review: Human Heart Nature Makeup Remover

Human Heart Nature Cleanser & Makeup Remover

I have 2 friends namely Caby and Fetz who swear by products from Human Nature. So I finally gave in and decided to try something from their line. I really needed a makeup remover since I just ran out so I grabbed Human Heart natures Honey and Cocoa Butter Cleanser and Makeup Remover.

What I really love about their products is that there are no harmful chemicals used, its also earth friendly and the company supports local
farmers in the Philippines.


here it is:

Here's what it says if you like reading whats written on the back of the product, like i do!

What it says: Beautiful Skin starts with a BEE! Honey is an all in one skin saver-an excellent moisturizer rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. This
cream serves a double purpose: a moisturizer and gentle makeup remover to keep your skin soft and gentle without irritation. 100% No Harmful
Chemicals: No parabens phthalates, SLS/SLES, formaldehyde an other toxic substances.

How to use: Massage a button sized amount all over the face and eye area and gentyl wipe of with tissue or rinse with water.


Ingredients: Purified water, coca butter, beeswax, ceto-stearyl alcohol (vegetable-derived glyceryl mono-stearate food grade emulsifier), goats
milk powder, dark honey, bee propolis, natural vitamin E



Why you should buy it:
- Very safe since it contains no harmful chemicals
- the ingredients are good for your skin!
- It really takes off most of my makeup (I dont suggest that you skip your whole skin routine though)
- Its locally available
- Inexpensive (I believe this costs about a hundres pesos)


What you should consider:
- If you have sensitive skin, I suggest you try the sample first. My skin isnt that sensitive but I do find that it stings a bit when I apply it on
my face so I dont kep it on too long. After I apply it I wipe it off and wash my face. It doesnt dry me out or leave red patches or anything but I find the
stinging a bit annoying.



If you'd like to check the other products they have you may do so by following this link: http://humanheartnature.com

US & Canadian Readers Giveaway! - "High Potency Anime Complex Face Lift Complex" from Perricone MD

Part of my New years Resolution List is to take better care of my skin. And i'm so happy that I've been given the opportunity to share a wonderful skin care product to one of my US or Canadian readers. This is a timely giveaway since my blog has hit 300 followers just recently! Thank you to every single one of you! More giveaways/contests coming up for my non US & Canadian readers, I promise! :)

NV Perricone Md Cosmeceuticals is spearheaded by its CEO Dr. Nicholas Perricone MD. They are the leading manufacturer and retailer of skin care products targeting the most common skin care concerns of Women. He is well known for his holistic approach to aging, has authored 3 New York Tiimes #1 Bestsellers and have been featured in several TV Shows including Oprah!

The Anime Complex , $95

A skin care product that delivers a lifted, tightened, defined, contoured and radiant appearance! It is ideal for people who are experiencing dry skin, devitalized skin tone, deeper line and wrinkles and loss of firmness. And while im a few years away from worrying about wrinkles, I believe that prevention is better than cure! haha. I think that taking the measures to ensure that our skin is at its best condition is a good investment for the future. And who doesn't want vibrant and glowing skin?


To join the Perricone Giveaway:

- Please leave me a comment and share why you want or need the High Potency Anime Complex Face Lift.
-Please include your name, email adress and country of residence at the end of your comment
- One winner will be chosen via Random.org
- This giveaway is open to US and Canadian Readers
- This giveaway will end on February 14 (Manila time)

Happy New Skin!

Part of my new years resolution is to take better care of my skin. And though nothing we can do will ever turn us into Angelina Jolie or Scarlett Johansson, we all know that having good skin as canvas is much better than having to conceal flaws and blemishes. Part of taking good care of your skin includes drinking enough water, exercising, avoiding sun exposure without protection, not smoking and following a beauty regimen that best suits your skin’s needs. And though I drink water more than most people do and exercise (ehem! Haha) I tend to neglect my skin in other aspects. Take sunbathing, I’m naturally tan but I love burning my skin. Quite literally sometimes and I sometimes skip the spf, which is a big no-no.

A few months ago, I noticed that part of my back had some sort of Hyper pigmentation. I thought it was just because my skin didn’t adjust too well when I stayed in the US for a few months. It’s almost a year, and its still there, which is troubling because it’s almost back baring season again haha. Which is why I was ecstatic when I won The Beauty Bin’s contest about a month ago. I won third prize and I got a free TCA peel of the back from 6F Aesthetic andAnti-Ageing Center.

Due to moving (to a new house) I didn’t get to go right away. I was glad that Jovie, the receptionist at 6F was very accommodating and didn’t get annoyed that I had to reschedule my visit to the Clinic. After a few weeks, I finally got an appointment and headed over to Medical Plaza in Makati. I got there at 6 and noticed that all the other clinics and office spaces were already closing. Then I learned that 6F usually closes at around 10 or 11 pm, and the clinic is by appointment only. So you can imagine all the clients that come in each day!

Mineral Eyeshadows swatched. They Remind me

of M.A.C. Goldmine, Violet Trance and Amber Lights

Had the Chance to check some of the makeup they carry when Dra. Sixta Foronda greeted me. She was very nice and fun to talk to. We chatted for a bit before the procedure hehe. She also answered all my questions about other skin concerns. She took time to make sure that I understood everything, the procedure and what it was for.

in different percentages. I think these are 5%, 10% 15% and 20%

The whole process took about 30 minutes. I had to wait while the fan was blowing on my back hehe to lessen the itch and sting. Basically the meds are applied on to the skin thats going to be peeled, starting from the lowest percentage and gradually increasing. Some people may not need to go up to 20% The procedure ends once you feel that your skin is tingling. It wast painful or anything. The itch went away after a few minutes and lasted for about 2-4 days only. Dra. Sixta gave me some meds to use, one of which was Betamethasone Cream that helps with the itching. Typically, your skin will start peeling in 10 days, the peel will last for 2 to 3 weeks. Mine started peeling on the 7th day and its still peeling. The first week my skin was just a tad bit shiny, now it looks like I have sun burn hehe. Although Dra. Sixta told me that it might take another session or 2 to completely get rid of they hyper pigmentation, there is a marked difference in my skin!

She also gave me these to take home! Im a happy lucky girl :D

Kojic acid soap, Sunblock Cream, Betamethasone Cream, Clindamycin and Arbutin Lotion

She asked me if I wanted lighter skin, but I said that I love my tanned complexion. She gave me 2 bars of Kojic Acid Soap to try and to help with the hyper pigmentation on my back. She said that it really does work and lightens the skin of her clients in just a few months. I decided to use it all over just so my skin tone is even, been using it for a little less than a month and even my boyfriend (who always thinks that im nuts for noticing when my skin gets a tad bit lighter lol) commented that my skin was getting lighter.

Overall, im very happy with Dra. Sixta Foronda. I need to schedule an appointment once my back stops peeling, and so we can talk more about what I can do with my other skin problems hehe. Clear, beautiful skin here I come!! :D

You may check out 6F Aesthetic and Anti-Ageing Center's website to see the list of services they offer over HERE. 6F Aesthetic ans Anti-Ageing Center is located at Unit 1411 Medical Plaza Makati Amorsolo Cor. Dela Rosa St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Philippines. You may call to schedule an appointment using these number: (632)752-2087, (632) 887-5941 or (0906) 324-5315 please ask for Jovie :)

Venus and Mars Lulur Bar

As I've mentioned, I'm kind of nuts about Soap bars. Currently I have 6 which I use interchangeably. I do have favorites though, so those are about to run out.

About a month ago, I came across Venus and Mars' Multiply Store. Ive heard good things about their products so decided to look around and find something to try. I saw the Lulur bar and it intrigued me, since I'm a sucker for products that promise clear skin. I also thought that the mix of ingredients used for this bar was very interesting.

Product image taken from Venus and Mar's Multiply Store

Main ingredients used for this soap:
Emu oil, Tea tree essential oil, tumeric, Tea tree leaves, Shea Butter, Arbutin, Calamansi, Papain, Olive Oil and Coconut Oil

If the curious mix of ingredients isn't enough to entice you to get one bar for yourself, here are some of the benefits of the Java Tumeric Spice*:

• Reduces Skin Pigmentation
• Makes the skin supple
• Inhibits cell damage
• Reduces hair growth
• Helps heal Acne
• Excellent skin beautifier

(*You may read more about Venus and Mars' Lulur Bar over: HERE)

So you see, not only does it promise great skin, it can even reduce hair growth? Yeah, yeah, I'm a sucker for advertising haha. So, I imagined that I'd get great results and got the big bar which sells for P195 (120g). I also got Caby excited about it, and she got one for herself too! haha
'
This is some powerful soap! I don't suggest you leave this on your face for more than 3 minutes when ou first use it. Caby got to try it first and she told me it stung. The pain, she said, can be compared to getting a chemical peel. So I didn't try to act brave and let it sit on my face for more than 2 minutes. But it still stung a bit. Ahh, the price you pay for vanity :P

After using it for about a week, I noticed some slight peeling on my neck. I was actually very impressed and dubbed it as my Organic Chemical Peel ( I know that doesn't make sense haha). I actually wanted to blog about it already, but I told myself I'd have to wait 3 more weeks so I can conduct a proper review. boo! haha

As expected with soaps that cause you to peel, you wont see the effects immediately. So while I was slightly peeling (nothing crazy or anything so don't worry), I was waiting for when my good skin would come out.

2nd week...

3rd week...

I had to stop. I know I should have waited at least one more week. But one morning, I woke up and my cheek felt itchy. I rubbed it a little and youch! it was painful! So i ran to the mirror and checked. My skin was slightly burnt - it was similar to the effects of when I had used pimple drying medications a few years ago. And while taking a shower, I noticed I had similar burnt areas on my clavicle too. Yeek. Not good.

I also decided to stop using it, because my normally combination skin was now Dry. Not even my facial moisturizer could save my face. So I banished the Lulur from my Soap Kingdom haha. Its too bad since I cut up the bar into about 8 pieces and I'd only been able to use 2 small bars. Lesson learned, when trying something new, get the sample size!


Why you should buy it:
- Its organic
- The mix of ingredients used for this bar are all good for the skin.
- I suppose it did help dry up some of my pimples (including the rest of my face)


What you should consider:
- Probably not a good idea to try this if you have sensitive skin (or have low pain tolerance lol)
- Do not leave this on your skin for too long. Might be best to use it for just a few days a week.


As with any of my reviews, whatever is stated here is based on my personal experience and opinion. And as with any product, some might notwork for me while it could very well work for you. If you check the Venus and Mars Multiply Store, you'll see tons of raves for this product. So you see, it does work! ( just not on me haha) I'll probably still try a few more items from Venus and Mars.

Main reason I threw out this bar, was I found it too drying. If there's anything I hate, its dry skin! I did, however, find a great facial wash that helped soothe and improve my skin. I will post about it next time :) But so far, I'm loving it!

This or That?

Another poll like post hehe. If youve seen my Halloween pictures, youve probably noticed that I got a few shades darker (or not? lol ) But yeah, I did, probably about 2-4 shades darker on my foundation palette. Why? Because Im nuts! haha Im a lover of the sun. And ive been hiding under a rock for about 4 months lol.

It actually confuses me sometimes, when putting on foundation. Since I tend to mix colors based on what I KNOW my skin tone is rather than what it ACTUALLY is. So imagine how horrified I am when I step out of my room and find that my face is darker than my legs LOL (I have really bad lighting in my room - and well legs are usually lighter ). Good thing it doesnt really matter when im wearing jeans haha

But I really hated having different skin tones. Ive been planning on going to the beach but that hasnt happened. Soo, I whipped out my sunless tanner lol. I got it while I stayed in the US for a bit. It wasnt enough that I baked myself in the backyard, I actually bought a tanning lotion. Which would probably seem weird to most of you, because im not fair skinned to begin with.

But anyway, i'll get into that next time :)Im blabbing, yet again. Time for this or that! haha

THIS?

See, im not that fair skinned. And some might think that
there isnt an actual difference lol

OR THIS?

Decided to post this one, cause its the only picture where the
lighting/flash didnt mess up with my color

I cant really post a more recent picture other than that from Halloween. Cause my color is fading. Some parts are actually peeling, a bit odd but I figured its because I did layer on a lot of it haha. I personally like myself darker, but most people dont. Though its a good change to be a bit lighter once in a while. I actually dont know what my natural skin color is! hahaha I was a swimmer for a good couple of years back when I was younger. And I just feel like the tan never really faded away LOL Lucky me, im tan all year round! :D


Anyhoo, enough blabbing. I'll post the review next time I feel a bit pasty so I can take pictures :D

Charcoal Mask

Ive been seeing a lot of raves about the Charcoal Mask. I heard it sells like pancakes, so when I decided to drop by Saizen this afternoon I was expecting I wouldnt find any. I went straight to the beauty section and saw a couple who were holding a some tubes. They all look the same btw (the cream cleanser and the others), and my heart sank when I saw that they were holding the cream cleanser. I decided to get the Charcoal soap instead, and saw 3 tubes of Charcoal mask! I grabbed all 3 and the couple looked at me, as I was walking away the girl said "hun, that was what I was looking for" hahaha oh well. Sorry :D haha meanie. You never know when it will be in stock again. I know someone just had 24 tubes from the latest shipment reserved, so it must be good!

I got a Charcoal Soap from Saizen too (heard its good, will post a review after ive tried it) and two oil blotter films from beauty bar (it was on sale for P15 each!) and my 3 lovely babies :D

Im not japanese, so I dont know what the tube says. I can only read "Natural Pack" and "Masque". Here are some other reviews on it, if youre interested click HERE and HERE.

SCARY!!! haha

So I tried it as soon as I got home *excited little me*. It would've been nice to have English instructions but I just followed the instructions from the review

"About the application – don’t stinge. A thin layer won’t work, especially if it’s been diluted with water. Wash your face first, pat it almost free of water, but make sure it isn’t totally dry or dripping wet. For even better results, steam your pores open (stand over a basin of boiling water and steam). Squirt a generous amount of the liquid mask on any blackhead-infested area, smudge it evenly, and make it quick as it dries quite quickly. And then you wait. I’ve tried sitting in front of a fan, which helps speed up the drying process. Do not smile, talk, frown, or twitch a muscle on your face, or you’ll break the mask. The “cracks” aren’t visible, but it means areas like the side of your nostrils aren’t in contact with the mask any more. Make sure the mask is totally dry (your face feels like it’s been cast in cement), then peel it off. I don’t have any specific rule on which direction to peel, as long as it’s off your face. You can wash off any residue with water, or you’ll be walking around with an outline of the mask. Enjoy feeling fascinated by the amount of muck stuck to the peeled mask."


Here's what I think: I love it! You have to wait until its completely dry. If you peel it when its still moist it wont work. It dries up and has this rough texture. It took close to 40 minutes to dry up! but I applied it very thickly. If only my camera could pick up the nasty little dirt it was able to take off i'd show you haha. Its a bit of a pain to remove but I absolutely love it. Be careful not to get this on your eyebrows, cause it can grab on to the little hairs on your face and pull it off. I got some on my eyebrows, I just made sure not to pull it. I just washed it away after Ive peeled everything off. Also make sure you apply a thick layer otherwise, it will be difficult to remove. I actually like the peeling off part (it might be painful to some) so test it before applying on your entire face. But my face feels so smooth and feels like my pores are tighter.

Why you should buy it:
-It removed blackheads and all the dirt that accumulated -Does not sting when ou apply it
-Mild scent and nothing annoying -It works better than anything ive tried.

What you should consider:
-Uhm youre face will be black for a few minutes? haha I really have no complains about it


You can get this at Daiso (those Japanese stores) in the Philippines you can only get this at Saizen in Robinson's Galleria. It sells for 85 but its always, always, always out of stock. Resellers sell this baby for atleast 100 to as much as 350!! I will definitely repurchase! I only hope I get my hands on some again next time hehe.

Since I got 3, Im throwing in one for my giveaway, so join if you still haven't! :D

Maui's Thank you Giveaway!

Boring Monday

Ive been cutting down on expenses (hah!) so I decided to stay at home today. Caby came over and we basically spent two to three hours just lounging on the bed. But we have something exciting coming up hehehe =)

Was thinking of what to post, then I got bored so I decided to put makeup on (For years, this is what I normally do whenever I get bored). Was going to join a contest, but my hands automatically grabbed my go to colors (so much for the contest). When im in a hurry I go for neutral eyes with mostly just brown and gold. I know ya'll havent seen me look normal haha what with tiger makeup, Shiva makeup and all those Halloween makeup. So to switch things up here is my go to look..

What I used:

Face:
Cinema Secrets Color Corrector kit #2
RCMA Shinto 2 and 3
RCMA Invisible Setting Powder
Rimmel Blush in Peach
MAC Sculpt and Shape in Lightsweep and Shadester
UDPP and MAC Charcoal Brown for eyebrows

Eyes:
Paint Pot in Soft Ochre
MAC Vex, Haux, Embark, Charcoal Brown, Carbon and Gorgeous Gold
Rimmel Glam eyes mascara
Fanny Serrano Eyelash Curler (I swear this curler is awesome! :D )


Can I just add, my skin is looking so so much brighter and better. Cinema Secrets Concealer + RCMA fdtn + RCMA setting powder = really good skin on photograph. But its so much better now that my skin looks and feels much clearer. And besides, we all know that good skin makes makeup so much better! I didnt really have acne problems but I do breakout once in a while and my forehead always had little bumps. Ive been on Tretinoin for 2 months and the persistent little bumps on my forehead are gone, my skin looks clearer, its smoother

After about a month, my hair still looks odd to me hehe. I love it though =)

This is what it looks like if I let it dry on its own

And just as I was about to remove everything my friend texts. Wee! Im going out. Hope all of you had a great Monday! :)

Reviews

My box finally arrived yesterday. And so did the Fingerprint Card I requested from the California Board of Nursing. The lord of US Postal Service must be pleased with me lol. Ive been waiting for the box becauuuseee it had my traincase! It was way too big to fit in my luggage when I went home and I had too much stuff so I left it behind. But we are now reunited haha

I know I promised id take pictures of it a few months back and I finally did. Havent reorganized it though so I just have a few stuff in it.

I really love the color! It also comes with a strap and 2 keys and a few moveable dividers

Bunch of stuff

I love that keyholder which I got from Forever 21 for a dollar I think

This ones a definate SPLURGE. But the color makes it worth it haha =) Here is the review I made for this traincase: LINK

Got this from Sephora. Well I didnt, my mom did! My mom spoils me :) Thanks mom! haha She also sent me an eyeshadow. I wanted to have her bring my empty containers to M.A.C. but I guess she forgot to brimg em and got it for me instead. And a mascara and an Eyebrow Pencil (Lingering). Ill post a review on that soon.

I love purple e/s which is odd because I probably dont own any purple clothing, well anything purple except for e/s lol oh and my pencil case haha

L: No primer; Right: With Primer

SOAPAHOLIC

I think I have 5 bath soaps right now. haha I usually switch them around and use whichever I feel like using. I ordered a a few items from BareNaturals a few weeks back. Didnt get to review them right away cause I was on blog leave? haha. And I really do like to try things out for at least a week or 2 before doing a review.

I ordered a bar of No break out to Makeup Soap, Cocktail Soap and Pure Emu oil. I think the bars of soap are all infused with emu oil. I didnt get to take a picture when I got them though.

BEAUTIFYING SKIN NOURISHING, SKIN PERFECTING SOAP

It has placenta a well known moisturizer and anti-wrinkle, Chamomile extract which revitalizes and strengthens the skin.
Infused with tomatoextract, it has large amount of Vitamin C which acts as antioxidant and helps prevent wrinkles and acne.
It is infused mildly with papain and calamansi for gentle skin lightening.

It has the sweet, lingering smell of sun ripened peach

Photo and text from BareNaturals: LINK

What I Love about it:
- Honestly, this bar reminds me of gummi bears haha.
- I love the nodes. makes them even more cute!
-Seriously though, I noticed a little less than a week after using it my skin was softer and smoother. I noticed because I forgot to put on lotion and was surprised that my skin wasnt dry and it was so smooth
- It has helped with some parts that have chicken skin (I have some on my upper arms) though I dont think it claims to treat that. I guess its because overall your skin is smoother.
-Big bars! :)

What to consider:
-Its not very sudsy but I like that it doesnt "melt" easily .
- The scent is okay, its very sweet smelling?

But overall I like this soap, ive been using this for almost a month now I think. =)

ANTI-PIMPLE, for EXCESSIVELY OIL SKIN

An anti-break-out soap, it has tea tree oil and real tea tree leaves with anti-bacterial action; best for pimples and other skin diseases
Mildly infused with calamansi and papain for gentle skin lightening
With sweet envigorating scent of pink grapefruit

Photo and text form BareNaturals: LINK

Okay this one I havent used long enough to see if it does help with breakouts. But I really really love the scent! I use this not just on my face sometimes because it just smells so lovely! Plus it has this course texture (tea leaves? i guess) So i feel like it also exfoliates your skin at the same time. Havent used this as much on my face though since im trying out tretinoin so ive been mostly using just cetaphil for my face.

100% Emu Oil

Emu Oil contains natural anti-inflammatory, healing properties with a wide range of omega oils that are known to facilitate good health. It contains a complete source of essential fatty acids. Incredibly, this amazing oil contains omega 3,6,9 essential fatty acids and is a powerful skin moisturizer and possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties among many other health benefits.

Product Photos and Text from BareNaurals. To read the entire product info please follow this: LINK

Ive seen many bloggers using this. I was at frist weirded out because uhm its from a giant ostrich like bird. Why would I slab its oil on my face?! LOL but after reading a few articles about it, I thought what the heck, ill give it a try. It claims to be good for a lot of skin conditions and what not. I havent tried this long enough too to see its full effect. But ive used it as a face moiturizer and a makeup base.

What I love:
- You only need a little
- If you put just the right amount, your face wont get oily.
-It helps with flaking, dryness and itchiness ( which i have been experiencing from tretinoin)
-No, it doesnt stink! haha
-Its a good makeup base
-Doesnt clog your pores or make you break out ( though I have to try it once I get off tret just to see)
- Ive also used this for waxing. To remove the annoying wax thats left behind and to soothe the skin after

What you should consider:
- I havent tried emu oil from any other brand so Im not sure what it should smell like? lol this one has a slight scent of olive oil though. Nothing disgusting or apalling :) but if youve been tortured to put olive oil on your rice at every meal I suppose you wouldnt like it haha.
- hmm I really have no other cons for this product.


Overall, Im happy with my purchase! I do tend to obsess with products I like but I do want to try the other soaps too. But the Cocktail soap I will definately buy that again. And the No break out to make up! I like that the they have a variety of items too. Mineral Makeup, skin care products, Makeup Brushes and theyre very reasonable priced! Ms. Lami is nice too! She responds to emails and gave freebies hehe :) Will definately re-order.

If you want to check out other Products and price lists from Bare Naturals. Check their Multiply website. Here is the link: BARE NATURALS.

Swatches, Dupes and Reviews

Making up for no post days, Sweets! Swatches, Dupes and Reviews! :)

Ive been stressed out lately and its taking a toll on my already super bad sleeping habits = poor skin. So i havent done any eotd or fotd. ya'll dont need to see me all stressed out and gross haha. Okay on to the post.


Lipgloss

Mars from Mars Simpsons! was asking me where to find good yet affordable lipgloss. Until this year, I havent been much of a lippie person. So I only own a few (and mostly just from m.a.c.). And though I like their lipglass they dont actually fall under the category of affordable. A few days ago I saw some swatches of the lipgloss from bench (im sorry i'd post the link but I cant remember where I saw them :/ ) Anyway decided to check them out. There are tons of lip stuff at herbench I was pretty amazed haha. They have ones that look like dazzleglass and they have a lot of lipsticks too.

The ones I got are called Paint Box Color Sheen lip gloss. I think there are about 6. I swatched them all but forgot to take a picture. Most of the shades are pinkish though. I got Polished Plum (which I think is a darker dupe of M.A.C.'s lipglass in nymphette) and Sheer Pink (which reminds me of NARS Turkish Delight --lemming on that). Though I wouldnt say theyre as pigmented, I actually do like them!

Mars also asked about the taste and smell of the alternative/cheaper lipgloss. Well, it doesnt really taste like anything (I dont suppose you'll be licking them purposely anyway hehe). The smell is okay, its not repulsive but its not the best smelling one out there.


Click on images to view in full size :)

Paint Box Color Sheen Lip Gloss

No Flash and With Flash

Left: Sheer Pink; Right: Polished plum





What they look like on me, my lips are very pigmented. A bit messy applied them very quickly hehe
Left: Polished Plum - Sheer plum with gold flecks
Right: Sheer Pink - Nude Light Pink (better with something under if you have pigmented lips*)

DAMAGE: 178 PhP

Rating: 4 out of 5

Why you should buy it:
-Pretty shades!
-Cheaper and comparable to expensive ones
-Not super sticky like M.A.C.'s lipglass (if you dont like that)
-Very shiny! hehe
-Sheer and feels light ( you wont feel like you have tons of gunk on your lips haha)

What you should consider:
- I dont like the lip wand it comes with
-For swatching purposes, you'll get a decent amount with one dip. But actually putting it on your lips may take a couple more.
-If your lips are very pigmented, the colors may not show as well.*


* If your lips are very pigmented you can use a nude lipliner to shade your lips and then apply lipgloss or apply a small amount of flesh toned concealer on your lips just enough to conceal your lips natural pigmentation and then apply the gloss. And flesh toned please (similar to your skin tone) do not put very light concealer on your lips, its not pretty making 0.0 haha. Or apply over your favorite lipstick!



Okay, next. Told you Im trying to make up for no post days! :)



M.A.C.'s Studio Moisture Cream vs. M.A.C. oil control lotion

First off, I hope you guys moisturize. Oily skin is a common problem especially for us who live in the Philippines. Where its hot and humid practically the whole year! But did you know, that the more you try to make your face dry with products (esp. alcohol - I know someone who does that!) the more it'll produce oil. Yeah so its actually pointless. What you need are products that help maintain your skins balance and helps control oil.

Which brings us to...tenen! LOL M.A.C's Oil Control Lotion vs. M.A.C. Studio Moisture Cream. I was using M.A.C's Studio Moisture Cream but decided to get the oil control for when I go back to the Philippines figured I might need something to keep the shine to a minimum.



M.A.C. Studio Moisture Cream 50 mL

Damage: I actually cant remember. I got the one with the old packaging at CCO too.
Rating: 5 out of 5

Why you should buy it:
- I bought this during Winter and my skin was super flaky and dry and itchy. It might sting a little ( a very very very little - and I think thats expected) when you apply it to dry, flaky windburned? spots but it does get rid of it after continued use.
-I like the smell, it smells the same as the oil control lotion but the scent lasts longer and a bit stronger than the oil control's.
- It hasnt broken me out
-Creamy but not heavy.
-You wont need a lot.

What you should consider:
-Your skin type. I have combination skin but your skin needs extra moisture during Winter. But on non Winter months or countries that dont have Winter, best to skip it unless you have dry skin.



M.A.C. Oil Control Lotion 50 mL

Damage: I also got this at CCO and cant remember how much I got them.
Rating: 5 out of 5

Why you should buy it:
- Its not greasy and very lightweight. You wont feel like youre melting haha.
- Im not quite sure if its water based but it does seem like it from the texture
- Since it practically wont melt off my face, it does seem to keep the shine at bay.
- I do like the smell and its quite faint and goes away after a minute or two.
- It hasnt broken me out.
-You dont need to use a lot of product.
- I dont see this as drying or anything in the extreme that might make dry skin worse so I think its safe to use on any skin type.

What you should consider:
- This is not a miracle product! At the very most, it lessens shine because it isnt as heavy as other face moisturizers.
- You'd still have to blot your face once in a while esp. on very hot and humid days.


* I rated both 5 out 5 because for a very long time, I stopped moisturizing my face. The very first time I did, I used Pond's ( I forgot what its called - they came in those am and pm jars. the blue and white ones) Anyway, So I used those for about a month and started noticing that my pores were getting clogged and I broke out too. The M.A.C. moisturizers have never broken me out.

Left: Oil Control Lotion; Right: Studio Moisture Cream





Applied on Skin.
Top: Studio Moisture Cream; Bottom: Oil Control Lotion





Blended. I applied a bit too much of the Studio Cream but it goes on clear after blending but you can see how they differ in forumula and texture.

If youre interested you may check the prices at M.A.C.'s website: LINK
Or check them out at your local M.A.C Counters


EDIT: Extra info about the 2 products from the M.A.C. Website

Oil free lotion
The ultimate no-shine base for oil control. Natural exfoliants help improve texture and clarity. Lightweight and instantly matte, bonds makeup to the skin for fewer touch-ups. Oil-free hydration with natural colloidal minerals and antioxidants. Formulated to keep skin pH-balanced. Use day or night.
50 ml / 1.7 fl oz US $29.50


Studio Moisture Cream
A super-rich creamy moisturizer boosted with skin-nourishing extracts including passion fruit, spinach leaf, green tea, algae, wheat germ and coconut. Moistens, feeds, firms and protects the skin. Promotes a healthy radiance. Diminishes the appearance of fine lines. Good for day and night.
50 ml / 1.7 fl oz US $32.00





Cinema Secrets Concealer/ Color Corrector Palette kit #2 Swatch


Click on the images to view them in full size :D

Concealer/ Color Corrector Kit#2


These are heavily packed/applied for swatching purposes. They can go as sheer as you want them to and layer them as needed. Theyre not as dark as when they're in the container because theyre very pigmented thats why you only need a very small amount.

I didnt get to swatch them before, though i've reviewed these 3 times LOL. So I wont go into details about them anymore. If you want to read my reviewS on them you can find them
HERE, HERE (2) and OVER HERE

If youre interested you may:
BUY ME

LOL.


As with any product, please remember that results or effects may vary due to various reasons. The product reviews above are what I experienced and how they worked for me :)


And just to make up for the days that have gone by without any posts. Here is an eotd for you! LOL. Just a simple, quick, brown and gold look.

-Prime
- Wash of color on the crease (I used M.A.C.'s Haux)
-Packed M.A.C. Gold Mine on the lid and inner corners
-M.A.C. Woodwinked on the (outer) lid blended towards Gold Mine
- M.A.C. Chrcoal Brown, Embark and Carbon on outer crease for depth and definition.
- M.A.C. Vanilla on brow area and Femme Fi for highlight.
- Wet n Wild Eyeliner
- Face Shop Lashes in XO

-> You may use whatever color or substitute with what you have. Just putting down the names for color reference. :D

BOOO! haha