FOTD: Everyday Post-Holiday Season Makeup

It's rare that I get to post FOTDs here considering how much set-up it requires for me to be able to get a few good shots! Regardless, I thought I'd share with you this (relatively) easy look that I've been going for these days.

Base and Blush

My base has been pretty much the same for the past four months or so. I find that this gives me the most flawless, smooth base that doesn't fade awkwardly or patchily. I use the Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer for my t-zone and the areas beside my nose to achieve a poreless look, and use Max Factor's Facefinity All Day Primer for the rest of my face. It seems a bit tedious to use two primers, but that's just me being fussy. 

The Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation has been my go to for so long because it builds to a pretty solid medium coverage and lasts well throughout the day. I use the L'oreal Lumi Magique Concealer for my under eyes, dark areas, and just below where I would put my contour for subtle definition and illumination. 

I'm pretty much obsessed with my new Colourpop Blush in Aphrodisiac as it gives the perfect hint of colour on the cheeks while being slightly cool in tone to contour. I tried using brushes but found that patting it on with my fingers and blending with my foundation brush is the best method for me. I set everything with the Bourjois Healthy Mix Powder and Skindinavia Oil Control Setting Spray (if I'm going to be somewhere without air-conditioning) and I'm good to go!

Eyes

After doing very elaborate and defined eye looks for the holidays, I've embraced my usual blend-and-go product, the Maybelline Color Tattoo Leather in Creamy Beige. It does well in adding something to the eyes without too much work. A quick curl and coat with the Fairydrops Platinum Waterproof Mascara is more than enough for me. Finally, I add a bit of the NYX Brow Mascara in Espresso to the inner and outer portions of my brow, to make my brows appear neater and more pronounced without adding too much. 

Highlight and Lips

I normally don't do highlight, but the Colourpop Highlighter in Butterfly Beach is too beautiful to resist. It's slightly pink in tone so it really livens up the face, and the lack of any visible shimmer or glitter really allows it to blend into the skin well. 

I've been going for two lip options, though I've been really into browny nudes in the form of the Etude House Dear My Blooming Lips Talk Chiffon in BE109. If I want something more sophisticated and comfortable to the lips however, then I go for the Chanel Rouge Coco in Mademoiselle.

The end result is something pretty simple, but still incorporates the essential make-up I love the most which is a perfected base. What do you think?

Friday, February 03, 2017

FOTD: Everyday Post-Holiday Season Makeup

By Pauline Read More

2016 Make-Up Favourites

Slightly delayed, but as they say, better late than never!

I acquired a lot of make-up in 2016 and discovered a few old favourites as well, so this is all a good mix of old and new. I'm pretty proud to say that I've become a lot more comfortable with how I do my make-up and I can say that I can get the look that I really want without too much fiddling.

Hopefully this means less disappointing and unnecessary purchases in 2017? Not sure about unnecessary, because I do have a tendency to shop when I'm sad, but we can always try. 

I did a lot of streamlining to have one product per category as much as possible, be proud!

Primer

The Hourglass Mineral Veil is easily the best primer I've tried by far. I get compliments on my skin every time I wear this, no joke! Half a pump or less is all I need to get that smooth, poreless-looking base that makes all the other products I put on top last for hours longer. It's expensive and my heart broke when I paid for it, but the results are well-worth it! I'd imagine this bottle would last me a good two years!

Foundation

I've dreamed of the Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation for years, and I'm so happy to call this my top favourite! I love the Serum version for colder weather, but for everyday use in this hot, humid country, the regular formula is amazing! Blended with a brush, I get a medium coverage that's even, light on the skin, and stays for a good six hours before fading. I haven't found a base I've loved this much since the Fairydrops BB Cream!

Concealer

I know that highlighting concealers are more of an extra step, but wow do they make a difference! The L'oreal Lumi Magique in particular is an affordable but very effective concealer that does well in cancelling (moderate) dark circles while really brightening the under eye area. I also really like it underneath contour to make it more prominent.

Powder

I think out of all the products in my Europe Beauty Haul, the Bourjois Healthy Balance Powder has to be my favourite. It's compact, blends into the skin well, controls oil, and can be used for flash photography. Easily the best compact powder I've used, knocking my old favourite (the NARS Translucent Crystal Setting Powder) out of the water. I just wish it was more readily available!

Eyeshadow Palette

I knew I would love the Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette as soon as I saw it, but I underestimated how much. I've pretty much ignored all my other palettes in favour of this and would gladly take it anywhere with me as it can create so many looks that I love. The shadows are so pigmented and vibrant that it makes Urban Decay look quite sad, if I'm honest! Now I know why everyone has professed their long lasting love to this!

Single Eyeshadow

I knew that Makeup Geek Cosmopolitan was beautiful but damn! Every time I put it on I'm so surprised with how unique and yet so well formulated this eyeshadow is. I wore this non-stop during those stressful thesis months that I was away from the blog and its usually my first recommendation to anyone who wants to try Makeup Geek. 

Eyeliner

Well, isn't this embarrassing. I usually keep my makeup in as near to mint condition as possible, but it goes to show just how much I still love the Clio Kill Brown Brush Liner. This has been my favourite for a good three years now because its still the most pigmented, long-lasting eyeliner (both on the eyes and usage-wise) I've tried.

Mascara

Honestly, why did I even bother to stray from the Fairydrops Platinum Waterproof Mascara? It holds a curl, lengthens my lashes like no other, separates beautifully while providing a bit of thickening and doesn't flake or smudge. It's been the only mascara that truly makes me happy, and while it is difficult to find (only in Sasa HK it seems!), I am still more than willing to get it.

Also thank you as always to Alex for getting this when I ask. <3

Blush

I've reached for the Milani Rose Blush in Romantic Rose 9 out of 10 times that I do my makeup. It's brightening without being too loud, and neutral enough that it goes with most of the looks that I wear. It's also not overly pigmented that you'll get clown cheeks, and the design is still so. pretty. My only qualm is the scent, but for what it gives me, it can be easily overlooked!

Contour

While I loved my Too Cool for School Contour Powder, I found that cream contours like the L'oreal Infallible Sculpt works infinitely better for me. The shade of this contour in particular is a bit cooler, so it appears more like a shadow on my face than anything else. I love that it's a cream as well and is pigmented enough while being buildable. Great affordable option that I reach for always!

Everyday Lipstick

Honestly...this was the hardest for me because I loved a lot of lipsticks in 2016. From the Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips in Secret Salma, to the Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet, to the Etude House Chiffon Lipstick. Really difficult time. I'm becoming a lipstick hoarder.

But usage-wise, the Chanel Rouge Coco in Mademoiselle wins by a long shot, so much so that the Chanel engraving has been used! This has been my dream lipstick for as long as I can remember, and whenever I need a classy but elegant lipstick, this is always my go to. The formula is also very good to the lips as its non-drying and feels so comfortable. If I had to get rid of all my lipsticks and keep this one, I would still be very happy.

Red Lipstick

You might be calling 'cheater!' at this point but wait! Late 2016 was the time that I finally, finally had the balls to wear red lips out without feeling overly self-conscious. While I do love all the reds I own, the Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet in La Fascinante is such a beautiful, versatile red. It's that red lipstick you can always rely on as the shade works for both casual and more formal situations. I also find it quite comfortable for something marketed as a matte.

And there you have it! If you reached this point, thank you for joining me in my excitement for my favourites and for being with me the entire 2016. Hopefully this 2017 we can make more memories and reach greater heights!

What about you - what were your favourites for 2016?

Sunday, January 15, 2017

2016 Make-Up Favourites

By Pauline Read More

Collective Haul

Aka the things I got since the last time I updated post. It's very difficult to balance blogging with thesis I'm afraid, so these little updates will have to last for a few months longer. I thought I'd show you the new things I was gifted/acquired lately, because who doesn't love a good haul post, right? I'm going to include a bit of swatches and first impressions too, so here we go!

Skin Care

Origins Ginzing Eye Cream

Since I've started seeing a dermatologist regularly, a lot of my skin care products are medicated. Honestly, the only ones I can purchase for skin care are cleansing oils/water/balms and eye cream. For years I've used eye creams that either just moisturize or do nothing at all. I picked this up on a whim after dropping by my local Origins counter and instantly loved how hydrating but effective it is at reducing the puffiness under my eyes. Plus, its not greasy at all! Expect a review in the coming months.

Make-Up

Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder

I've been hearing about this powder for years, and how its a godsend for people with oily skin. Out of everything I purchased, I find myself most disappointed in this. Not only can I see this powder on my skin, but it clings to dry patches I didn't know I had and does nothing for oil control. I see it less when I buff another powder over it (more on this in another post) but for the most part, I'm really bummed that this did nothing for me.

Skindinavia The Makeup Finishing Spray: Oil Control

I initially wanted to try the Urban Decay Setting Sprays but wasn't too willing to shell out the money for it. Since those sprays were made with Skindinavia anyway, I thought it'd be better to try from the source! So far I find that this does wonders at preventing my foundation from settling on my nose and the sides, but doesn't hold up too well with humidity. Will test this out more before giving a final opinion!

Makeup Geek Eyeshadows (Cosmopolitan, Latte, Drama Queen)

This was an impulse purchase, I swear! I was only supposed to get the spray when I chanced upon these while browsing the MakeUp Pro site. I've heard nothing but good things about these shadows and I have to say that everything bloggers have said about these are true! The colour selection is amazing and the pigmentation is up there with brands such as Urban Decay (some are even better!). Amazing quality at such an affordable price point! Definitely making a detailed review on these soon!

Fairydrops Platinum Mascara (Waterproof) (Review)

My true mascara love has returned! These are nearly obsolete now - they're not even available in Japan. My friend Alex managed to find some in Sasa which I am eternally grateful for. I'm currently keeping this when I get desperate, as I'm currently using the Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara.

Milani Rose Blush (Romantic Rose)

I knew I needed to expand my blush collection as I only had peachy and peachy pink shades. This blush not only has one of the prettiest designs I've seen on a make-up product, but the dusty pink colour suits a variety of make-up looks. I will say now that it has a weird, plastic-like smell in the pan that's stronger than I would like, but it faded when you apply it to the skin.

Kiko Moondust Illuminating Powder Blush (02 Fairy Mauve)

A gift from a lovely friend! The marbling reminds me a lot of the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blushes, though I think they're a tad bit more sheeny than those. I love how this really lights up the face, making it great for evening looks!

Kiko Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick (06 Rosy Brown)

I have wanted this eyeshadow stick for a long time, ever since I heard about the brand. I find the ByTerry Ombre Blackstars to be outrageously expensive (its the same price as some of the foundations I'm eyeing, for goodness sake) so I settled for this and it did not disappoint! The formula is creamy without being too slippy, and once it sets, it will not budge for a good six hours. Plus, the colour is so unique - probably the only close dupe to Misty Rock that I've read about!

As promised, swatches of all the products! I've learned that readers really appreciate swatches and first impressions on products, so I thought I would structure my post this way. I hope the new format is okay with you guys! Let me know down in the comments below!

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Collective Haul

By Pauline Read More

Subtle 40's Makeup - Rachel McAdams Inspired

I thought I'd so something a bit different today and show you a make-up look I tried to translate on myself. Its not something I normally do, since I usually just watch a ton of YouTube videos and mix and match whatever I think is pretty. I really like the outcome though and I'm really excited to share it with all of you! This is actually a collaboration with Alex from The Red Eyeliner, so if you'd like to see her look click this!

Now when you think of 40s makeup, its usually characterised by soft bedroom eyes, prominent brow bones, defined cheekbones, velvet skin, and of course a matte red lip. While I have not done that look yet (and I will eventually - feel free to bug me for a post!), I thought I'd share a more wearable 40s look that I could add to my limited arsenal of daily makeup looks. 

The look that I went for is this one from The Notebook. It was set in the forties and had less of the Hollywood look and more of a casual one. I would like to clarify at this point that I'm not trying to look like Rachel McAdams! I could try but we won't really get anywhere. I'm more after her makeup, which looks very lovely in this photo below.

This has three distinct features: velvety skin, pinky peach cheeks, and a wine red stain on the lips. You see none of the bedroom eyes or defined cheekbones in this one. I absolutely love how it still reads fresh without dewiness, which is something I'm not always fond of. Here are the products I used below.

Base: Etude House Pore Ever Pore Primer Essence, Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation (123), Innisfree No Sebum Loose Powder*
Cheeks: NYX Powder Blush (Pinched)
Eyes: Urban Decay Primer Potion, Too Faced Natural Matte Palette, Fairydrops Platinum or Scandal Queen Waterproof Mascara, Lioele Auto Eyebrow Pencil (3)
Lips: Covergirl Queen Collection Lipstick (Tawny Port)*
*Alex's Products

I did my routine as usual (primer + foundation) and left my eyebrows alone as they're naturally quite full anyway. I focused more on the eyes by doing a bit of crease definition. I did this by sweeping Heaven all over the lid up until the brow bone, and then lining my socket lightly with Cashmere Bunny. After mascara, I then powdered to get rid of all shine (yes, all shine). Final step was to add 1 light layer of the lipstick, rubbing it in slightly to create a stained effect.

Yes, shame on me for not bringing the appropriate lip colour! The closest I have in my collection is currently the NARS Satin Lip Pencil in Mandore. That one has slightly less brown tones, but one light layer will look identical. Any more than one layer results to a more autumnal look. 

You couldn't see the eye makeup on Rachel, but I did do a tiny bit of defining through the crease. It just adds a bit of definition and shadow without going in the cut-crease direction of the 60s.

This is the finished look! In hindsight, I would have contoured just a tiny bit because my face is too round for my liking, but I do like the output nonetheless. Alex and I had tons of fun hanging out and taking pictures with our respective looks and we hope you like them, too!

P.S. There was a 70s look but due to lighting issues, we didn't push through with it. I don't think any of us are ready to see that yet!

Friday, July 24, 2015

Subtle 40's Makeup - Rachel McAdams Inspired

By Pauline Read More

Birthday Make-Up

Another surprise! This is a little late, but I thought I'd share with you the make-up I wore for my birthday last week. Its currently the intersession semester at my uni, and my birthday unluckily fell on the day of a presentation. I only had about half an hour to freshen up and get ready for dinner after, so I think I was able to do my makeup under 10 minutes! This is already pretty quick for me because I normally take 20-30 minutes to do makeup, just because I find it very relaxing and also because I like my base make-up looking very perfected.

Base: Etude House Goodbye Pore Ever Primer Essence + Jouer Matte Moisture Tint + Benefit Watts Up

Yes, this primer is back! My skin is much drier than a month ago (yay ;u;) and because the Jouer TM can emphasize dryness, I thought the primer would be good to counteract that and still bring a bit of hydration to the face. The result is very natural-looking skin that doesn't get too shiny even at the 6 hour mark! I couldn't be bothered with concealer because if I did, I would have never left the house.

Eyes: Urban Decay Primer Potion + Innisfree Mineral Single Cream Eyeshadow (04 Romance Burgundy) + Urban Decay Naked 2 - Chopper + Fairydrops Platinum/Scandal Queen Waterproof Mascara

I wanted to focus more on the eyes for this look (not that you can see my eyeshadows very well because of my hooded lids) so I tried out my new Innisfree cream shadow for the first time! I only used a small amount so instead of coming out as burgundy, it appeared more like a copper with red undertones and gold shimmer. I toned it down even more with Chopper from my Naked 2 palette, and it would have been perfect if I had the time to apply a matte brown in the crease like Strapless from the Too Faced Natural Matte palette. Adding some mascara to my top lashes also helped balancing the eyeshadow out.

Lips: Nivea Med Protection Lip Balm SPF 15 + MAC See Sheer (Lustre)

I really like this new lip balm (purchased because of Danie from That Nugu's review) because it hydrates my lips even as the balm fades. I paired the eyes with See Sheer because I thought it would look more harmonious with the copper-y eye.

And that's it for my makeup! What about you - what do you guys plan to wear on your birthday? Feel free to share that with me below! :D

P.S. Bonus picture of the rainbow cake I had (Yes I am a grown-up)!

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Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Birthday Make-Up

By Pauline Read More

Baguio May 2015 Travel Make-Up Bag

Surprise! I have not done a post like this ever, but I took some decent pictures of the make-up I brought to my last trip, and I thought I'd show you what I brought with me! You'll be seeing a lot of new things as well as old. If I'm being honest, I brought a bit too much. I rationalized while packing that I liked having options, but found that I had a small time frame to do my makeup and wanted to go with one look anyway.

Missing: Clio Kill Brown Waterproof Brush Liner

Base: Benefit Porefessional + Jouer Matte Moisture Tint (Nude) + Maybelline Master Conceal (Light-Medium) + Benefit Watts Up!

This has been my go-to base since I got the Jouer Matte Moisture Tint. It's not as heavy as using foundation (though my Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation is pretty lightweight) and it requires less upkeep. Having a primer plus a matte tinted moisturizer made my base last for a good 8+ hours which is great by my standards. And if you noticed, yes I didn't bring powder!

Color: NYX Powder Blush (Pinched) / Milani Baked Blush (Bella Rosa)

I'm the kind of person that matches their blush to their lip colour because I find that it looks more put together. I also wanted to have options, but found it unnecessary for this trip because I didn't bother wearing a blush at all. I'll definitely still bring two blushes for future trips - hopefully I'll have time to do my make-up then!

Eyes & Brows: Urban Decay Primer Potion + Too Faced Natural Matte Palette + Clio Kill Brown Waterproof Brush Liner + Fairydrops Platinum Waterproof Mascara + Lioele Auto Eyebrow Pencil

Since I didn't have a lot of time, I didn't do eyeliner no matter how much I wanted to :( I also just brushed through my brows since I just threaded them at the time. I did, however, put on eyeshadow  because I was testing out the TF palette. Also, I cannot go without mascara, which saddens me because I don't have any back-ups for my Fairydrops Mascara :(

Lips: Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate (05) / NYX Butter Gloss (Strawberry Parfait) / MAC See Sheer

I originally just brought the Rimmel and MAC lipsticks because those were the ones I couldn't decide on when packing. The NYX gloss joined the line up because it was the only lip product I owned that didn't dry out the edges of my lips if used alone. I ended up using See Sheer the entire trip because I needed the warmth on my face and because it goes really well with the NYX blush. 

It surprises me how this all fit in my make-up bag. One thing I learned when packing make-up which I want to share with you is try not to bring as much as me haha! On a more serious note, it seems better to bring products that don't require brushes if you can, just to save on space.

What about you guys - what are the things you have to bring when traveling? Any tips you'd like to share?

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Wednesday, June 10, 2015

Baguio May 2015 Travel Make-Up Bag

By Pauline Read More

REVIEW: Fairydrops Platinum Mascara (Waterproof)

Mascara was something I knew I wanted but was always hesitant to buy because of its short shelf life. I tried putting up with the Clio O'Tank Mascara that came with the Clio Kill Brown Brush Liner but it didn't do much except leave flakes all over my skin after about 3 hours. I was initially planning to buy the Maybelline The Falsies until I saw that Beauty Bar had their Fairydrops items on 50% off. After my success with their BB Cream (which I have talked about in practically every other post on this blog since it started), I knew I had to try their mascara next. Easy to say that despite my shopping ban then, I took the Fairydrops Platinum Mascara home with me.

Packaging and Wand

Can we take a moment to admire the designs on the packaging? It's a long, slim metallic pink tube decorated with jewel and pearl designs in white. It's more portable compared to mascaras with thicker tubes. You can easily place it in your handbag and take it anywhere with you if you need it!

The wand design is exactly what makes this mascara so famous and unique. It's a teardrop-shaped wand (a 'peanut' shape according to my friend Ren, which cracked me up) and curved slightly so it's able to really grip and coat the lashes when you wiggle the wand through them. It's also a brush-type wand rather than one with plastic bristles. I like it better than the straight brush-type wands because I find that I need to work the mascara in more to get every lash coated. I would recommend wiping off the excess, because the brush tends to hold a lot of product. It makes the lashes look a little clumpy this way, but it can be fixed easily with a few brushes or with a lash comb if you have one. 

Formulation

I apply it by getting as close to my lash line as possible, and wiggling the mascara wand up to the tips. I wouldn't recommend getting too close though, because it can go on your waterline and might irritate your eyes. The mascara doesn't take too long to set - it gives you enough time to work with it and build it up if you want to. I wouldn't recommend using it for touch-ups though (not that you need to, anyway) because by then, it will come off as clumpy and will start to flake.

You can easily get a very clean lash look - one with defined, slightly lengthened lashes due to tiny microfibers. It separates lashes well, which is exactly what I've been looking for in a mascara. You can also build it for more of a voluminous look, but not so much since it will lead to more spidery lashes. If you're a fan of that, then great, but I'm easily peeved by it so I try to avoid adding too many layers.

The formula isn't too wet that it doesn't hold a curl, but isn't too dry that the product doesn't last long. In fact, I've had this since November and it has shown no signs of spoilage or drying out! I think this helps justify the price tag a little bit more, since most mascaras I know of last for only 3-4 months. 

Before - no mascara, curled lashes

After - 4~5 coats of mascara on top lashes, 1 coat on bottom lashes

Lasting Power

I usually wear this mascara to school, where I stay for about 5-8 hours depending on my schedule. The mascara doesn't take a long time to set, but when it does, it does not go anywhere. I find that at the end of the day, it's still able to hold its curl from when I applied it. The one important thing I noticed is that it did not smudge, fade, or flake on my upper lashes. On my lower lashes however, I noticed that there was some colour transfer, making my eyes look a tiny bit darker.

Since it does last as long as it does, you do need a good waterproof makeup remover for this. I've found that the only way I can remove this without too much rubbing or tugging is with my Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil and The Body Shop Camomile Waterproof Eye and Lip Make-Up Remover, which is in a dual phase solution. Cleansing waters like Bioderma won't be enough.

Price and Availability

I got it for P595 at Beauty Bar, but that was during their 50% off sale. It's normally priced at around P1100+ but on the packaging it indicates that it costs 2750 Y = P1375. The mark-up isn't too bad, but I do admit it is a little expensive for a mascara. I inquired last week about a restock, but it turns out that Beauty Bar won't be carrying Fairydrops anymore, which is really disappointing. :( I'll definitely update this with sites that stock this if I find any, but for now you can only get it if you go to Japan, Hong Kong, or Singapore from what I know.

If you'd like to see a comparative review with their other mascaras, my friend Alex from The Red Eyeliner has one here!

Summary:

(+) Waterproof
(+) No flaking
(+) Holds a curl
(+) Buildable
(+) Long-lasting
(+) Versatile
(-) Brush holds too much product
(-) Smudges slightly for lower lashes
(-) Not good for touch-ups
(-) Not widely available
(-) Expensive

Recommended for: those looking for an all-rounder waterproof mascara that lasts all day

Repurchase? Yes! I can't see myself not owning a back-up of this.

That's it for my very lengthy review! If you've tried this mascara, tell me if you liked it or hated it in the comments below! Also if you have any mascara recommendations, I'd love to know about them!

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Friday, April 10, 2015

REVIEW: Fairydrops Platinum Mascara (Waterproof)

By Pauline Read More

Products of the Day: February to March 2015

Hi everyone!

I wanted to share with you some of the products I've been using lately for uni or for when I go out with friends. Honestly, a lot of the time its rather the same, and you'll see which make-up items I can't forego no matter what. Sadly, no FOTD yet (I know, I know, I should show my face sometime) but for those of you who like looking at pictures of scattered make-up products (I know I do), this will be the post for you! I talk more about each product so feel free to keep reading below!

These were more or less what I used the most in February. For my base I've stuck with the Benefit Porefessional-Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation-Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer-Benefit Watt's Up combination, but only when I have time on my hands. The result is a smooth, bright, healthy-looking face even if I don't feel that way. I've been switching around eye primers, which is why I've been trying the Too Faced Shadow Insurance. More on this soon! Of course I had to go with a Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow for an easy swipe and go look (this one is in My Two Cents). I've really grown to appreciate the Clio Kill Brown Waterproof Brush Liner which I got in my Singapore 2014 Haul. It's still going strong, though knowing how paranoid I am about things running out, I need to get a back-up soon. My consistent mascara of choice is the Fairydrops Platinum Mascara, which is probably the best all-rounder I've encountered. Finally, I've loved the look of the NYX Butter Gloss in Strawberry Parfait for a moisturizing gloss - definitely getting more from this range!

Later in February and last week, I've appreciated the appeal of a lighter base, which is why I fell back on the Lioele Water Drop BB Cream. I usually do my eye make-up in the car whenever I went for this look (with much difficulty, mind you) but it was enough for me to look like I made a lot of effort, even when I haven't. A fail-safe wash of colour for me will always be the Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow in Birthday Suit, which I talk about in most of my posts...oops.

These products are for the days when I thought I had a lot of time, but took too long to do my base and had to rush everything else. Fun fact: it takes me a good 15 minutes to do base make-up. Time just seems to fly by whenever I do! And since I'm starting to slowly get into lip products (I have the lip product queens Summer and Alex to thank (or not) for that) I tried out this Tony Moly Petite Bunny Gloss Bar that my friend Ena got for me in October. Balmy but leaves a really nice tint - the range is great for those who like bright colours!

Finally, these are the products I've been wearing for the past two weeks. Yes, I do have two BB Creams, but I use more of the Lioele and mix a tiny, tiny bit of the Fairydrops Candybar BB Cream to give a little more coverage. I've also been using the It's Skin Babyface Jelly Tint in #1 which is a sheer but very brightening red. The tint gets stronger after a few applications and it never fails to make me look more awake. Now I see why lip products are such a big deal. Next stop - lip butters!

And there you have it! As you can see, base is very, very important to me. I'll go without every other product but base products. I hope this was interesting for you as it was for me to write. Also look forward to a few new series' in a few months - possibly a top 10 and a few things related to travel? Stick around and wait for my next few posts!

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Saturday, March 14, 2015

Products of the Day: February to March 2015

By Pauline Read More

2014 Favourites

Hey everyone!

I won't be having a favourites for this month in favour of the ultimate favourites post - my 2014  Favourites! This is a special kind of favourites as it also includes my favourite travel experience from this past year as well. Not going to lie, this was a pretty difficult year for me in terms of everything, but it was easily the most eventful. Restarting this blog was definitely a big part of my year, and I hope to continue being more active and sharing all these experiences and products with all of you!

Fairydrops Candybar BB Cream (Review here)

I've said this before, but this is by far the best BB cream I have ever tried. No grey cast, great colour match, lightweight, light to medium coverage, and photo-friendly! This makes me look like I have healthy, almost flawless skin, which is definitely not the case. The shade range and packaging definitely need some improvement, but I have been so happy with this overall and would highly recommend it!

Innisfree Volcanic Pore Clay Mask (Review here)

I used to use it twice a week when I first got it, but I like it better as a once a week treatment on Sunday nights to clarify my pores after wearing make-up almost the whole week. It also helps calm my acne though I don't use it as a spot treatment anymore. It also reduces the redness on my face, which is always a huge plus for me. It's easy to see why this sells so well!

Real Techniques Shading Brush

This wins as my favourite brush this year as it is the one that I didn't expect to work as well as it did. It works well to pack on colour as well as to blend harsh edges away no matter what type of eyeshadow. It also allows me a lot of control because of its small size. All in all, it's a really great multi-purpose first eyeshadow brush!

Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow (Birthday Suit, My Two Cents)

These two have been my go-to for an easy wash of colour on lazy days, as well as bases to make similar colours sitting on top more vibrant. I also like how you can't find similar colours of these in the famous Maybelline Color Tattoo range, which convinces me to purchase the full-sized versions when I run out...which won't happen soon as I'm not even halfway through the tiny pots!

Laneige Water Bank Essence EX

This is the newest one among all my favourites, but it is the one that has made all the difference to my rough, dehydrated skin. It does exactly as it claimed - to smoothen skin and add moisture. I also like how quickly it absorbs into the skin without leaving an icky oily feeling unlike other moisturizers. I think I found another skin care staple!

Etude House Goodbye Pore Ever Primer Essence (Review here)

I like how this adds enough moisture and has just the right amount of silicone to make the application of whatever base I apply on top smoother without making me feel like I have a film over my face as most primers tend to do. I'm happy with the price tag as well despite its availability (rather, lack of) in most Etude House branches I go to. Highly recommended for people with drier skin!

Too Cool for School Marshmallow Puff (Review here)

I was in denial for a long time on choosing this sponge over my make-up brushes, but this gives the most flawless, skin-like finish, especially when paired with cream products like my NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer! It also helps my base products to separate less when worn for a long time.  This combined with my Fairydrops BB Cream and NARS Concealer make for a (seemingly) good skin day. Another unexpected favourite, and it won't break your bank as much as the original Beauty Blender would!

Best Travel Experience

Singapore

I already consider myself lucky to have traveled overseas more than once this year, but what made my Singapore May 2014 trip better was that I got to visit a friend I hadn't seen in a long time, and experienced planning and paying for a trip all on my own. This was more of a vacation for me than my Seoul trip was, as I didn't have to stress over the itinerary and making sure my parents weren't lost. It was nice to go at your own pace and do what you wanted to do for a change. In a way, it was a semi-independent trip that I won't forget for a lifetime.

And there you have it! Feel free to share with me your own favourites for this year down in the comments below. I'd like to thank everyone who has made this year what it was, especially you guys! Here's to a happier, better 2015!

1. Laneige Water Bank Essence_EX
2. Etude House Goodbye Pore Ever Primer Essence
3. Fairydrops Candybar BB Cream
4. Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
5. Too Cool for School Marshmallow Puff
6. Real Techniques Shading Brush
7. Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

2014 Favourites

By Pauline Read More