TGIF, yes it's Friday! means I have the day off. hehe. I've missed you ladies. I was actually in Manila for the past couple of days, thus explains the minimal update. Anyway, I'm still trying to get back into the swing of things so hopefully I can post more in the following weeks to come. ^_^


I've actually had these blushes since summer coz it was part of the Happy Skin Summer Collection. The Happy Skin team was generous enough to send me these.

Ms. Rissa says, these limited edition shades are Sunset Kiss, the most flattering orange that allows you to take the summer warmth with you wherever you go; and The Morning After, the perfect shade of pink that will always make him think you always have that natural effortless glow. (these have the same names as their summer collection lippies)




Happy Skin blushes are infused with Cherry Blossom extracts that lock in moisture and keep cheeks fresh and hydrated. Both sweat- and smear-proof for warm summer days, it keeps you blushing until you wash it off. Happy Skin blushes are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.


What I like about it...
* excellent color payoff
* last for a good 5 hours on me before it starts to fade (under humid weather)
* fragrance free
* applies smoothly and very easy to blend
* not chalky, no fall outs
* no allergies or irritation experienced
* made in Japan
* nice packaging, the material reminds me so much of The Balm blushes

What I don't like...
* a bit pricey for only 5grams worth of product

My rating: 4 / 5

These blushes really do look natural on my cheeks and gives just enough flush. It's a good thing that it's not overly pigmented, thus making it very easy to blend. You can check their other shades too, they're really pretty and perfect for everyday use.

Would I recommend? Yes, especially if you prefer to use matte blushes that gives a natural finish and last a good number of hours on your cheeks even under humid weather. I for one prefer blushes that has a bit of sheen and glow to them, so it would come down to preference. But as far as formulation is concern, these blushes are awesome.

Happy Skin is currently available at Rustan’s Makati and Rustan’s Shangri-la, Beauty Bar, and Plains & Prints boutiques. Visit www.happyskincosmetics.com for complete store listings and more product info. Follow @happyskin_ph on Instagram and Twitter. You can also buy Happy Skin online via shop.beautybar.com.ph.

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Here's another lipstick that will surely pique your interest. Last August 2014, Mary Kay Philippines launched new shades to its True Dimensions Lipstick range. The four new gorgeous shades are: Citrus Flirt, Coral Bliss, Exotic Mango, and Sassy Fuchsia.

I was lucky enough to try the shades Citrus Flirt and Sassy Fuchsia when the Mary Kay team sent them to me.



The Mary Kay True Dimensions Lipsticks are infused with advance age-defying skin care ingredients that helps lips look plumper, feel firmer and smooths fine lines while drenching them in moisture. It comes in 11 rich stay-true lip colors, including the 4 new shades I mentioned above.

In addition, True Dimensions Lipstick contains Vitamin E, Sunflower Seed Oil, Jojoba, Mango Butter which are known for their moisturizing benefits.


It has been over a month since I started using these lipsticks. So far, these lippies have been good to my lips. It's very moisturizing and hydrates my lips well for a good number of hours. It is has some kind of floral scent to it which can be overwhelming for some, but fragrance does dissipate a couple of minutes after application.


It is not streaky but rather applies really smoothly on my lips while delivering excellent color payoff.  These lipsticks feels very light on my lips similar to lip balms with thinner texture. It leaves a slightly glossy finish but if you don't like that, no need to worry since it gets absorbed on my lips after a few minutes of wearing. Then I noticed that my lips do get a little plump and look healthier since the fine lines on my lips tend to look smoother.

Though these aren't matte and opaque, it has a decent wear time at 4 - 5 hours on me. The shade Sassy Fuchsia stays on my lips for about 4 hours before it starts to fade while leaving a nice stain on my lips. The shade Citrus Flirt stays on my lips for about 3 - 4 hours only and does not leave a stain like the latter did.


Another thing that I really love about this line is it's very creative yet functional packaging. The twists all the way in, so I won't have to worry about nicking the top off my lipstick when I'm about to close it.


Also, this isn't your typical tube of lipstick. The top of the part of cap is made of transparent, thick plastic that allows me to see the color inside, then I have to push down the top cap of the lipstick for the tube to come out at the bottom.

With its stylish packaging, this innovative product has garnered Mary Kay the prestigious Art of Packaging Award from the renowned Pratt Institute in New York for excellence in packaging creativity, aesthetics, sustainability and functionality.

What I like about it...

* leaves my lips well hydrated
* feels light on my lips
* though it's slightly sheer, it still has excellent pigmentation
* leaves a nice stain on my lips
* stays a good 4 hours on my lips
* I noticed that my lips appear voluptuous
* it leaves my lips looking smoother and feel supple
* chic and sturdy silver packaging
* did not irritate my lips

What I don't like...
* this lipstick has a scent which is a bit overwhelming for me
* can be expensive at Php 860 each, but it's definitely worth a try

My rating: 4 / 5

So the question is, would I recommend this? Yes, definitely especially to those who have dry and cracked lips. If you prefer matte and opaque lipsticks, then this is not for you.

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

I know that I haven't done a makeup tutorial in a really long time (coz this kind of post takes me about 7 hours to edit!).  Luckily I had some free time a few days ago and I finally got the chance to play with my makeup again. Here's something that I created which is perfect for fall.  I got this idea when I was reading Shari's post a few weeks ago about how to make the Garnet shade from the Lorac Pro Palette stand out.


I experimented a bit and created two different eyeshadow looks using Lorac Pro Garnet shade.  I tried to balance out the shades, without making it overly dark. It's something that can be worn from day to night, you just have to pair it with an appropriate lip color.


I personally like the eyeshadow look I created on the right side of the photo, where I lined my lower lash line with Sable.  Anyway, here's how I created both looks. Please refer to the eye diagrams I created below.


For the first eyeshadow look,  I simply used an eye primer as base. I started applying eyeshadow first on the crease area using the shade Mauve, blending it upwards just above the crease. Then followed by Garnet, applying it all over my lids in a patting motion. I darkened the outer-V a little bit by mixing Espresso and Black shade. Then, I added a Nude shade in the inner corner to brighten up my eye. I applied the Garnet color on my lower lash line and topped the outer half of my lower lash line with Espresso for definition.  Lastly, I simply applied the Cream shade on my brow bone area to highlight it and make it look clean at the same time.


I lined my upper lash line with a brown gel liner then, topped it again with Garnet to make it look coppery. Then I finished it up with applying mascara. This would have looked better if only I used false eyelashes.


The second eyeshadow look I created is so much easier and faster to apply.  I applied an eye primer all over my lids, then followed by the NXY Jumbo pencil in Milk on the inner half of my lids and blended it with my fingers.  I then applied the Nude shade on the inner part of my lids, blending it towards the inner corner of my eye as well. Next, I applied the Cream color on my brow bone area.  I then started applying the Mauve color on my crease area blending it in an arc motion and bringing it up a bit. Next, I applied the Garnet shade all over my lids in a patting motion except for the inner corner. Then added a tiny bit of Sable on the outer lid but still topped it off with the Garnet color again blending it just above the crease area. Lastly, I applied Sable in my lower lash line connecting it with the outer corner of my eye.



I finished this eyeshadow look by lining my upper lash line with a black gel eyeliner and applying mascara on both my upper and lower lashes.


Here's the final look with my eyeshadows applied differently. I used Anastasia Beverly Hills Dip Brow Pomade in Dark Brown on my brows, The Balm Bahama Mama and The Balm Mary Lou Manizer to highlight and contour my face and completed the whole look with Covergirl Lip Perfection Lipstick in Enamor.  It would also help if you use women Bristle Makeup Brushes to complete your look.

I hope you girls find this helpful.

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Happy Wednesday everyone! You're probably wondering by now what kind of Cleansing Brush I'm referring to. Yes, I'm talking about the mechanical skin care face brush that was a hit a few years back when Clarisonic Face Cleansing Brush first became available in the market.

I honestly never paid too much attention to those battery operated face brushes because, I thought they will just cleanse my face the same like my hands do. So, why pay a ridiculously expensive face brush, when I can exfoliate like I always do with much less hassle? That all changed when I got my hands on the Mary Kay Skinvigorate Cleansing Brush.


WHY YOU’LL LOVE SKINVIGORATE™ CLEANSING BRUSH:
Mary Kay Says---This lightweight, two-speed power brush gently massages as it thoroughly cleans skin, removing residue, dirt and makeup in seconds. It allows your skin care products to absorb better and more quickly and helps maximize the instant hydration benefits of your moisturizer. Just a push of a button switches from a lower speed to higher — reaching over 400 rotations per minute. Both speeds provide gentle massaging yet deep cleansing. From the first day, you’ll notice a difference. And with continued use, the rotating action helps polish away the look of past skin damage for a more even-looking complexion. The appearance of lines and wrinkles is softened and pores appear smaller. Skin is invigorated, revealing its youthful vibrancy.

RETAIL PRICE:
Mary Kay® Skinvigorate™ Cleansing Brush retails at P2,390
available through any Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant.


The Mary Kay PH team sent me this Mary Kay Skinvigorate Cleansing Brush a couple of months ago and I've been using it since then. The box came with two brush heads (recommended to replace every three months), two AA batteries, the Mary Kay Skinvigorate and the manual.


Putting the Skinvigorate Brush together was very easy and straight forward. I directly placed the brush head in a tiny hole which was obvious.  I just pulled the bottom of the handle then placed the batteries and it's done.


I'd say the size is perfect, it's not too big nor too small to handle. In addition to that, it's very lightweight so using it is a breeze.


BENEFITS AND CLAIMS:
Here’s what women of all ages — from 13 to 70 — said about the Skinvigorate™ Cleansing Brush in an independent consumer study*:
•Maximizes my skin care benefits: 97%
•Transforms dull skin into a radiant complexion: 94%
•Provides a more even-looking skin tone: 96%
•Reveals youthful-looking skin: 93%
•Skin feels softer, smoother and healthier: 95%
*Results reflect the percentage of women who agreed with the statements in a three-week independent consumer study.


I've been using the Mary Kay Foaming Cleanser MelaCEP Whitening System together with the Skinvigorate Cleansing Brush.

The box says ---This rich and creamy Foaming Cleanser mixes with water to unveil a fine foam that gently cleanses the skin by removing impurities.


My Mary Kay Skinvigorate Cleansing Brush Experience

Since I started using this a couple of months back, I noticed a positive change in my skin's texture. I only use this at least twice a week like I do with my regular exfoliating facial scrub. But I stopped using my facial scrub for the mean time while I was testing this out, so as not to over exfoliate.

At first glance, the brush heads look rough but to my surprise they're actually very soft and not abrasive at all. By the way, Mary Kay recommends 15 seconds on each section of my face, cheeks, chin, nose and forehead. I guess that's good enough to give my face a thorough cleanse. Don't forget to thoroughly wash the brush head every after use to help maintain it's effectiveness.

Every single time I'm done with using the Mary Kay Skinvigorate my face always feels soft and extra smooth. My skin feels fresh without any dry or tight feeling.  Even my tiny bumps began to disappear as I continued to use the Skinvigorate Brush.

What I like about it... 
* affordable at PHP 2390 compared to other brands that usually cost around PHP 4000 or more
* very effective in smoothing out my skin, no more dry patches and rough areas
* I noticed that it helped even out my skin tone after over a month of continued use
* does not leave my face feeling dry or tight after using
* thoroughly removes a lot of dirt even the black / white heads on my nose area 
* helps shrink my bumps or pimple spots which I got during menstruation
* it does make my skin look radiant with the use of the Mary Kay foam cleanser
* no stinging or irritation experienced

What I don't like...
* other than where to store it every after use, I have no other complains

My rating: 5 / 5

Don't know anyone from Mary Kay?
It's simple just visit their Facebook Page and click the How to Buy tab
OR visit their website and find an independent Mary Kay Beauty Consultant HERE

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

I know for a fact that most of you are no stranger to shopping online. But you are probably curious as to why more people are getting into online shopping these days. Here are my top three reasons...





1. Great Deals and Discounts - about 90% of the time, products sold online are almost always cheaper than those sold in physical stores.  I think the price difference probably has something to do with taxes and rent for physical stores.

I always find myself getting awesome deals online especially for my makeup purchases. One good example is, when I find myself shopping at Nordstrom. I always make it a point to search for Nordstrom promo codes or Nordstrom discount codes before I proceed to checkout.

If you are not familiar with Nordstrom, it is a leading fashion specialty retailer offering compelling clothing, shoes and accessories for men, women and children for over 100 years. And yes, they can ship orders directly to the Philippines. If you ever decide to shop online at Nordstrom, don't forget to use Nordstrom coupons to get free shipping, huge discounts, special offers, freebies and so much more.

2. Convenient and Hassle Free - I can easily find items I want to purchase by simply typing the product name on the site's search bar. Unlike with physical stores, I would have to find a specific product per isle before I really get to it. Sometimes, I even get tempted to buy products I don't really need. Apart from easily finding products I'm looking for, I can take my time while shopping online. I don't have to hurry like I usually do in physical stores, since my husband keeps complaining that it takes me a really long time to shop. hehe

There's no more need to worry about waiting in long lines just to pay for my items and best part is, I can avoid the crowd. (this is very annoying especially during the holidays)

And since I already mentioned the holidays, this is usually the best time to find Nordstrom coupon codes. If you are clueless where to find the discounts, you can checkout coupon sites like Codesium.   The site offers a lot of promotions and codes not just for Nordstrom, but other popular online retailers as well. So, if you are a frugal and wise buyer like me, be on the lookout for promo codes. It will definitely save you some money.

3. Shop for products that are unavailable in my area - Because of online shopping, I am now able to buy products that are not available locally here in Philippines. We now have a lot of local online resellers who brings us the most coveted fashion and beauty products. Just be sure to buy only from known Top Sellers in order to avoid being scammed. I have a friend who loves to shop online at Nordstrom because she can be sure that the items are authentic, especially if it's a high-end beauty product. The only downside to it, is that it takes longer to arrive.

How about you ladies, are you fond of shopping online?

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. I received a form of compensation from the aforementioned company. However, all editorial content are my own and written without prejudice or bias regardless of sponsor or affiliate association.

Until next time.

Cheerios!

***Hollie***

Woot! more beauty products added to my stash! Yes, the September BDJBox finally arrived in my doorstep last week. It was definitely heavier than usual and I was just excited to see what's inside.

It has been over 10 days! since my last post. I really feel bad about it. I've been swamped with work again and had been feeling down and tired all week long. You know that feeling when you've worked for a company for so long but your salary is just not getting any better, then you start asking questions to yourself if you should just move on to another company? Uhggg... sorry for my useless blabbing again. hehe Anyway, I've missed everyone so I'm back with another lippie review.


I received this as a gift from fellow beauty blogger Phoebe last May, when we met for the first time here in Cebu. I know, she's so generous ^_^

Anyway, I have always wanted to try the Clinique Chubby Sticks ever since they came out. Simply because I've seen and read a lot of good reviews about it in blogsphere and on youtube.  I've been using this for some time now and I have to say it's not bad at all, but not amazing either. Here's why.


I got the shade "Bountiful Blush" and from the looks of it, I would have guessed that it has excellent color payoff.  Unfortunately, that is not the case.  I was already expecting for this lippie to be sheer like a lip balm but a bit more pigmentation would have been awesome.  They already addressed this issue when Clinique released the Chubby Stick Intense version.

I like that the packaging looks chic and classy with the silver coated ends. It doesn't look cheap in my opinion (though it is still made of plastic).  There is no need to sharpen this since, you can easily twist the bottom to get the product out.


I did not notice any scent from the Chubby Stick, which is a really good thing.  I had to swipe the product several times to actually get the swatch on my hand to show.  The shade Bountiful Blush is really pretty for everyday use. I find it to be a good MLBB (My Lips But Better) lip color.


I honestly like how moist and hydrated my lips feel with the Clinique Chubby Stick. Clinique says it is a "Super-nourishing balm is loaded with mango and shea butters. Just what dry, delicate lips need to feel comfortably soft and smooth". It actually does what it is supposed to do.

What I like about it...
* very moisturizing
* keeps my lips well hydrated for over 4 hours without retouch
* fragrance-free
* does not feel sticky at all
* twist type packaging

What I don't like...
* can be expensive at $17 each, I can buy a high quality tinted lip balm for half the price

My verdict? Well, it's a good product because it does what it is meant to do, but if you want the same moisture feeling but with better pigmentation, I would suggest you try the Clinique Chubby Stick Intense Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm.

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Good Day ladies! As the titles suggests, I will be showing you my choice of travel beauty essentials which I brought with me during my 3-day trip to Manila last month. It's a mix of makeup and skin care products which I've been using most of the time.

Since it's just a short trip, I only brought one medium sized backpack from Deuter Sport and a small sling bag from Parfois. (I forgot to take photos of those...hehe) Which means I really had to pack light. And I had to fit my son's and my own clothes in one backpack, but I did it! (feeling proud ^_^)


I brought a tiny amount of Mac Brush Cleanser which I transferred in that small atomizer, two small makeup bags, (the pink one is from Clinique while the gray one is from Estee Lauder) and a small Clinique tin can which was from their bonus kit. You won't believe how many skin care products actually fit in that tiny can.



Those who already own this Clinique bonus kit, would know what I'm talking about. It's practically just about the same size as your palm and I have to say this thing served me well.


These are the skin care products that I brought with me during the trip. All of which are travel sized. I will name them from left to right. First is the Bobbi Brown SPF 50 Protective Face Base (it's sample size that I got from sampleroom last year), Loccitane Hand Cream (travel size which was a gift from fellow beauty blogger Phoebe), Mary Kay TimeWise Target-Action Eye Revitalizer (will review this soon), Clinique Rinse-off Foaming Cleanser Mousse, Clinique Moisture Surge Overnight Mask, Clinique Moisture Surge Face Spray (all from the Clinique bonus kit), VMV Hypoallergenics Armada Moisturizing Protective Lip Balm 60, VMV Hypoallergenics Armada Face Cover 70 (bought at ZaloraPH) and Lastly, the Snoe Star Night Star Bright Nigh Perfecting Toner. (bought at the Snoe Beauty Stall at Metro Ayala Cebu)

I knew that it would be hot and humid in Manila, so I thought about the weather and my current skin condition when I decided to pick these to bring with me. This means, that I might bring something different on my next trip this coming October depending on my skin issues at the time.


I honestly had a hard time choosing which makeup products I should bring especially when I was picking out lippies. (I know you would be confused too if you had more than 20 lipsticks in your stash. hahaha)

So, let's break it down. First off are my lipstick picks.

Lip Products
Happy Skin Shut Up and Kiss in Sunset Kiss
Mac Retro Matte Lipstick in Flat Out Fabulous
Mac Satin Lipstick in Rebel

Face Products
Mary Kay Concealer in Beige 2
Mac Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation in NC35 (forgot to include in photo)
Mac Powder Blush in Harmony
The Balm Mary Lou Manizer
The Balm Frat Boy

Eye Products
Happy Skin Eye Am Here To Stay Gel Pencil Eyeliner in Chic Brown
Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara (sample size)
Mac Mineralize Eye Shadow in This &That

Brow Products
Anastasia Beverly Hills Dip Brow Pomade in Dark Brown
Mac Brow Set in Beguile

Now, that I'm looking at the makeup products I packed for the trip, I honestly feel relieved that I didn't bring so much stuff.


These are the makeup brushes I brought with me and yes, they are travel friendly too. I was honestly thinking of bringing the Sigma Make Me Cool Travel Kit, but I changed my mind, since I felt like my current choices would be so much lighter compared to the latter.


Makeup Brushes (from top to bottom)
Charm Luxe Retractable Kabuki in Gold
BYS Angled Brow Brush
Marionnaud N°38 Eye (angled and spoolie dual brush)
Sigma F40 Large Angled Contour Brush
Elf Mineral Bamboo Complexion Brush (travel size)
Generic Eye Detail Brush
Generic Dome type Crease Brush
Sigma E25 Blending Brush (travel size)
Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler in Gold (forgot to include in photo)

There are certainly a couple of products here that I could do without. I will have to improve my travel beauty essential picks on my next trip.


Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***