It's finally Christmas Eve 2014, Yay! Time for friends get-together and family bonding! With that said, I'd like to extend my Christmas greetings and Holiday Cheers to everyone! ^_^

Anyway, back to business. Remember my old post before about Lip Balms? I posted a mini review of all lip balms that I used about two years ago which you can read HERE. This time I'll be posting reviews on the current lip balms I've been testing out while in search for my HG lip balm. hehe


I got the chance to try out several lip balms for the past couple of years and I've yet to find an all time favorite. I only got about seven that I have in my stash right now coz I gave the rest away.

So, let's start this off with the Mentholatum Lip Ice Lip Balm with SPF 15, the one in the photo is Grape + BlackCurrant. I've already tried the Lemon and Strawberry Flavors as well. It retails for only Php89 at Watsons. I've repurchased this twice already since I love how light this feels on my lips. It is very moisturizing without being waxy and the moisture lasts longer than the average lip balm. I especially like that this leaves a minty tingle to my lips every time I use it. If you prefer minty balms like me, this Lip Ice lip balms should be on top of your list!

Carmex Moisturizing Lip Balm in Strawberry with SPF 15 retails around Php110 (price varies, depending where you purchased it). I've already tried this lip balm twice. The first time was the original unflavored Carmex Lip Balm in a squeeze type tube, then this strawberry variant. For both times I've tried this, I experienced a stinging sensation on my lips, and one that doesn't go away, unless I remove the balm from my lips. I honestly really like that it feels minty on my lips and it moisturizes very well. However, the consistency is a little too thick and sticky for my liking, also I am not sure which ingredient is making my lips sting so bad every single time I use this. So, to put it simply, Carmex is just not for me.

Alba Botanica Terra Tints in Bloom with SPF 15,  I already know a few friends who absolutely love this balm especially the other shade which is Ablaze. It retails for Php159 at Healthy Options. I really want to love this lip balm as well, unfortunately I experienced lip allergies with this. I first tried it earlier this year and I thought it might have been another product causing the itch on my lips. However, the allergies stopped with I stopped using the lip balm. Then, I gave it another chance later this year. Unfortunately, I got the same lip allergy I had when I first tried it.


Both the shade Bloom and Ablaze really look natural and pretty on anyone's lips. So, if you're into tinted lip balms, you might want to give this a try, however this is just not for me.

Alba Botanica Natural Hawaiian Lip Balm in Pineapple Quench. It retails for Php99 at Healthy Options. This one does not have SPF, but I really like the coconut variant of this balm since it smells really good. It has a thicker and waxy texture. It also has a much drier consistency, so it's not that moisturizing.


VMV Hypoallergenics Armada Moisturising Protective Lip Balm with SPF 60, it's the only lip balm I found that has the highest SPF content. This is actually my favorite among the bunch. It moisturizes my lips very well and lasts longer on my lips too. Also, I noticed that ever since I started using this, my upper lip lightened a little bit. It has a thick and slightly sticky consistency, so I only need a tiny amount to apply for my whole lips. Definitely a keeper!

The Body Shop Natural Lip Roll-On in Berry, I was initially excited to try this one out, since it comes in a roll-on and it smells like real berries. However, I got lip allergies with lip balm as well. I used it for three days straight and my lips became super dry, patchy and itchy so I stopped using it.

Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer in Rhubarb. I'm not really a fan of tinted lip balms, but I like this one a lot. It moisturizes well and I feel that I absorbs on my lips a well. I also like that it can pass off as a good lipstick since it has good pigmentation. Plus it smells great too.

So, among these seven lip balms, I only approve of three. First is the VMV Hypoallergenics Protective Lip Balm, then the Mentholatum Lip Ice and lastly the Burst's Bees Lip Shimmer. I will still continue to try out lip balms from different brands. I actually already have the Hurraw lip balms on my list of lip balms to try. hehe

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Hello Tuesday! I know that some of you might still have a weekend hang over since most of the classes and work were suspended the past few days due to Typhoon Ruby. I just want to say... Thank  you Lord for keeping everyone safe and sound!

So back to our topic; you may or may not be familiar with CC Creams, but CC stands for Complexion Corrector or Color Correct, which is very straightforward. Like the name suggests, it's main function is to even out your skin tone.


The Mary Kay Complexion Corrector (CC) Cream Sunscreen SPF 15, acts like makeup that instantly correct complexion imperfections while formulated like skin care to help nurture the skin.

It has 8 Benefits:

Protects - helps protect skin from sunburn and damage with broad-spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen
Brightens - It is formulated with the key ingredient Niacinamide, which is for skin lightening
Corrects with lightweight coverage - made from mineral-based pigments
Minimizes redness - covers to provide visible relief to skin redness
Conceals - instantly conceals the appearance of blemishes and marks from past breakouts
Hydrates - instantly amplifies skin luminosity
Reduces visible signs of aging - contains Vitamin E and Silymarin Extract
Defends - contains powerful antioxidants to help defend against skin-damaging free radicals

There are only 2 shades available here in PH. I use the Mary Kay CC Cream in Very Light. The other shade available is Light-to-Medium. The shade Very Light, is actually about 2 shades lighter than my natural skin tone. However, I was amazed that it actually blended on my skin, though it still looks a tad bit lighter on me. I don't use this on it's own since I have combination skin, so I like to set it with my Mac Studio Fix Powder in NC35.


I am happy to report that this come with a pump. I find it very easy to control when pumping out product. One pump is all it takes for my entire face and neck. However, I only apply this on my T-Zone and Under eye area so I just half a pump on most days.


I also would like to point out that the expiry date is written at that bottom of the tube. I appreciate makeup products that indicated the expiry date, since it's fairly helpful for their consumers.

What I like about it...
* affordable at Php825 since most CC creams cost more than a thousand pesos
* very convenient packaging that comes with a pump
* has a really smooth and creamy texture, kinda gel-like
* feels very light on my face, something comparable to a water-based moisturizer
* hydrates my face well, does not leave my skin dry at all
* has light coverage, but can cover minor blemishes
* stays a good 5 hours on me before it starts to fade (in an office environment)
* does not settle on fine lines and does not cake
* definitely helps even out my skin tone
* gives my face a natural and healthy glow
* no allergies or irritation experienced

What I don't like...
* it is not fragrance-free, it has a scent similar to a sunscreen, but nothing overwhelming
* very limited shades available

My rating: 4/5

I've been using this CC Cream for the past 3 months and I must say that I really like it. I usually stay away from BB Creams since I've had no luck with them, I've tried 3 brands of BB cream before and all three broke me out. I'm just glad that the Mary Kay CC Cream worked really well for me.

Would I recommend this? Yes, definitely. Especially if you are looking for a base that gives light coverage just enough to achieve that natural and healthy look you prefer.

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

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***

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***

Has any of you found your Holy Grail mascara yet? I know that's a rather hard question to answer. There are a lot of brands to choose from, all of which comes with different formulations. So, that's primarily the reason why I keep hopping from one mascara to another.

I've been using the Covergirl Lashblast Volume Waterproof Mascara in Very Black for about five months and so far, I could say it is above average and I like it.

I'm slacking off from my posts again. huhu. It's been a really rough week, and I'm literally drained.  There's so much going on at work lately and my baby Ehron had fever for the past 4 days. Good thing he's all better now.  Anyway, I just wanted to show you this lip gloss that I had in my kit for some time now. It's pretty and it's something that can be worn on a daily basis, if you like glossy lips.

I've recently enrolled to an Ashtanga Yoga class and I've discovered a couple of products that proved to be long lasting even with all the sweat coming out due to yoga practice.

Wouldn't you love to place your bets on someone you can trust? Imagine this: Someone who promises to stand by you through tears—both happy and sad. Someone who helps transform you into the best you that you can possibly be. Someone who brings out the sparkle in your eye. The same criteria apply to eyeliners.



The Happy Skin team sent me two shades of their eyeliner, in Chic Brown and Peppermint. This was sent together with the Summer Collection a few months ago which you can check HERE.


I honestly love the packaging of this gel eyeliner. It's quite cute but still chic at the same time. This is an Auto pencil, so you only need to twist in order to get the product out. The tiny sharpener at the bottom always comes in handy, whenever I want the tip of my eyeliner to be sharper.



Here is how Chic Brown looks when worn. If you notice it is not completely matte since it has visible gold shimmers.

Happy Skin Eye Am Here To Stay 24h Gel Pencil Auto Eyeliner in the shade Chic Brown – is a deep cocoa tinge that gives eyes a soft, natural shape. Best for those who want their eyes to appear bigger.


This is how the Peppermint shade looks on me. I was skeptical with this shade at first, since it's the first time I've seen a mint shade eyeliner. But when I tried it on my waterline, it definitely was an instant wake me up kind of eyeliner!

Happy Skin Eye Am Here To Stay 24h Gel Pencil Auto Eyeliner in the shade Peppermint – is a better alternative to white and flesh eyeliner, this is the perfect eye brightener!