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

The Wonder of the Japonesque Power Curler

I've used my Shu Uemura Lash Curler for about two years now, and I have to say it was a good run. Honestly it was getting a bit painful to curl my lashes with it these past few months which is why I had to look for an alternative. Repurchasing the Shu curler in stores would cost more than some high end foundations - no joke - which is what led me to the Japonesque Power Curler. 

Honestly, it was love at first...curl? The shape is a little more almond, therefore more flat and less curved, which I discovered to be perfect for my eye shape. It gets 90% of my lashes save for the ends, but its nothing a second curl can't fix. Best part? No pinching whatsoever. I never realized I was actually experiencing a bit of it while I used the Shu curler. No pain from the Japonesque this time!

The lashes themselves stay in position until the end of the day (>10 hours), but that can be attributed to the fact that I only wear waterproof mascara. Though for stick straight Asian lashes, I have to say that's very good. For non-waterproof mascara or for wetter formulas, I observed that they maintain 60% of the curl after 3-4 hours, so those of you who like water resistant, take note!

L - Japonesque R - Shu Uemura. The reason why Japonesque lays flat against the eye (therefore getting more lashes) is because the clamp is on the outer side. The Japonesque curler is also larger in size.

Curve comparisons with Japonesque on the left. As I mentioned, the Japonesque one is a little less curved and more of an almond shape.

I also love that I can get free refills of the curler pad from Japonesque online or Beauty Bar where I purchased it, for as long as the lash curler is in tact. Since I'm pretty careful with my things, I'd say thats a good couple of years.

All in all, the Japonesque curler was a very worthy investment and will be something I will be repurchasing in the future. Sorry, Shu Uemura!

Not really. You pinched my eyelids for years.

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

The Wonder of the Japonesque Power Curler

By Pauline Read More

Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette Review

This review has been a long time coming! I purchased this palette back in June as I felt I needed more  variety in my eyeshadows. I had both cools and mattes, but strangely not enough warm colours, which compliment my skin tone very well. After a long period of indecision, I settled on the Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette, which got a lot of praise with its launch last year.

It's housed in a very slim cardboard palette with a magnetic close, something I thought I wouldn't buy for myself but here we are! I do find that because of its size, its easy to slot in, making it (hold your eye rolls, I know you hear this all the time) "perfect for travel". 

The palette itself contains 10 shades that lean warm. It has a good range of lights and darks, and includes 6 shimmery shades and 4 matte shades. Honestly, I would definitely wear all the shades save for the last two (Infusion and Delicate Acidity) only because I don't know how to incorporate them into a look I would wear daily. The rest however, have already been used numerous times!

As soon as I swatched them, I was blown away by the quality of the shadows. It came out pigmented, buttery, and very even, something not even my best Urban Decay eyeshadows can manage (yep, I said it). Its not overly pigmented that its hard to work with, but you're not constantly building colour just to achieve opacity, either.

I find that there is little fallout on the pan and on the skin, which is a huge plus in my book. I do keep the transparent guard that comes with it which helps keep the palette clean, which might explain why my palette still looks almost unused. I like my things very clean, what can I say?

I find that these last for a good 5-6 hours before they begin to fade, but take note that this is in humidity. I tried these on when I was in Ireland and I found they lasted for about 2 hours more. It creases around the 7 hour mark, which isn't too bad considering my oily eyelids! I do always wear primer, though I'd imagine that this would wear better on drier lids.

This cost me around 1106 PHP when I purchased it at Sephora PH. It retails for 21.80 EUR on the Zoeva website. It may not be available in offline stores but it is widely available online; you would just have to pick the site depending on your location.

This is easily one of the best eyeshadow palette purchases I've made (which is a bold statement considering how much I loved my Naked 2 and Too Faced Natural Matte Palette) and I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for warm eyeshadows on a budget! 

Friday, September 09, 2016

Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette Review

By Pauline Read More

Etude House Chiffon Lipstick (109) Review

For the beauty post! 

I wasn't alerted to the release of this product until my best friend raved to me about how amazing the formula and colour of their nude lipstick was. Since I do vouch for the quality of Korean cosmetics, I knew I had to give the Etude House Dear My Lips Talk Chiffon Lipstick in BE109 (what a mouthful) a go.

Packaging-wise, its different from Etude House's usual design where they have a bow in the middle where the lipstick opens. Instead the tube is lighter, sleeker, and more minimalistic, though it is still in the usual colour pink outside. It's nothing too special, but you do have to admit that its really cute.

I've also been on the hunt for a decent nude lipstick myself, but I wasn't so willing to splurge on MAC Hug Me, which was the one I've been eyeing for a good few years now. I took a chance with this colour and I do have to say that I am pleasantly surprised. The colour is a browny nude that leans a little dark, but not too dark that it looks unnatural or too stark. There aren't any hints of peachiness or pinkness to it, which is why I think it doesn't wash me out. 

Formula-wise, its definitely a cross between a satin and a matte. Its definitely not a drying matte at all, but if you rub the lipstick between the lips, you can feel a very slight graininess to the texture. It definitely doesn't have that shine as most nude lipsticks do, but its not flat like liquid lipsticks. The dryness peaks at about 3-4 hours, by which I would recommend a lip balm just to make the wear more comfortable. It is very lightweight, so much that I do forget I'm wearing it from time to time.

There is a light, candy scent upon application, but its pleasant and fades after 20 minutes or so. It lasts 3-4 hours on me without eating or drinking, and leaves a very light stain. I didn't expect it to last for hours anyway, but those looking for a long-lasting nude lipstick should take note.

I will say that I'm slightly pissed that this broke from the base (pictures to follow). I'm pretty sure I didn't drop it, but its something that has happened to lipsticks that I did drop, so do be careful when handling this so you don't have to struggle repairing it like I did. 

It cost 12000 KRW, which is roughly around 500 PHP. If my memory serves me right, this is a little more expensive than Etude House's usual lipsticks even with the change in formula, so I can't really say that the price hike is justifiable. I got this during my stopover in Seoul, but you can purchase this at your local Etude House, or on online stores such as ibuybeauti.com. 

Overall, I like this enough and would recommend it for people who want to get into the browny nude trend, and are looking for an affordable lipstick that is neither too glossy or too drying. 

Friday, September 02, 2016

Etude House Chiffon Lipstick (109) Review

By Pauline Read More

Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips (Secret Salma) Review

By now you've probably heard of Charlotte Tilbury, a makeup brand created by a makeup artist of the same name who has been in the industry for decades. Bloggers and YouTubers alike have sung their high praises for her products, and I figured that since i had the opportunity, I should try at least one product to see what all the hype is about.

I was initially going to get one of her original Matte Revolution Lipsticks but found most of the shades to be too light on my skin or too different compared to the swatches online! Luckily, the new Hot Lips Collection was just released around a month prior my trip to Europe, so I immediately searched for a shade in the collection that would best suit me.

I settled on the shade Secret Salma easily, as I now gravitate towards shades within its spectrum. It's official description is a 'deep rose plum', which I find to be accurate once worn on the lips. Its a very  pretty, sophisticated colour that is not too garish or too plain, and can be easily paired with a very simple or a very elaborate look. Its also very unique as it doesn't have any brown tones to it as most lipsticks in this shade range usually do. It swatches lighter on the skin, so do take note if you're trying this out in stores.

It applies very easily onto the lips, without any tugging or extra effort to get the full colour. The formula is pigmented without being too opaque, making it a little easier to wear and handle. Two layers will be enough to get the full colour. It feels very lightweight and non-drying within the first hour, but becomes slightly drying afterwards. It is however, significantly less than normal matte lipsticks, so if you like matte formulations, you might even find this hydrating.

The lipstick bullet is an interesting one with its square shape, as it does help in making the edges of the lips more crisp and clean without the need for a lip liner. Though I do say I did have to make minuscule adjustments in learning to apply with it as I'm used to the teardrop shape.

I find that this lasts for about 4-5 hours, which is pretty standard for any lipstick. It will definitely last longer if layered or if a lip liner is used underneath. Its kind of disappointing, as many have said that this tends to last for much longer. Perhaps because its not a red or a dark lipstick? It does leave a small stain, though not enough for it to be noticeable.

This cost be 30 EUR, which is about 1560 PHP. Its within the same price range as other high end brands such as Chanel (Rouge Coco is 1650 PHP) and NARS (Audacious is 1450). Quite expensive, but it is a nice treat if ever you have the extra cash.

I purchased this in Brown Thomas on Grafton Street (Ireland), but its available in her flagship store in Covent Garden, Selfridges, Harrods, and Fenwich if you live in London. It is also available in Nordstrom in the US. Its currently not available in the Philippines but few online stores have begun stocking this, though the markup is extremely high! I would recommend just waiting for a relative to go to the UK or US if you intend on trying this out.

Overall, while I do agree that it is a fantastic lipstick in formulation, colour selection, and packaging, it is not as revolutionary as the bloggers make it seem. Its very good, but slightly overhyped. I would recommend it if you want something new in your lipstick collection, but maybe not if you're looking for the perfect lipstick (that still belongs to Chanel for me).

Have you tried Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks before? Do you have any favourite shades? 

Friday, August 12, 2016

Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips (Secret Salma) Review

By Pauline Read More

Innisfree No Sebum Powder Review

This review is long overdue and I finally got around to finishing it. I've heard almost every K-blogger or Asian blogger rave about the Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder, and since I was looking for a loose, more mattifying alternative to my NARS Translucent Crystal Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder (which still hasn't run out, btw), this was definitely a must-try.

For those who aren't familiar with the brand, Innisfree is one of the many Korean roadshop cosmetic brands that is eco-friendly (their packaging is recycled and printed using soy ink), uses natural ingredients, but is still very affordable. My experience with the brand has been pretty good, though none of what I've purchased have attained the 'Holy Grail' status. 

For reference, I have combination to oily skin that is fairly red (not rosy unfortunately), averaged-sized pores, and around NC25-30. 

Packaging

Getting right down to it, the powder is housed in a small, light green plastic container with another plastic inside holding the powder down. It does come with a puff, though I've never used it. I find that it just collects product more than anything else. The holed plastic inside is sealed upon purchase, and I'd recommend opening it halfway so as to gain more control in dispensing the powder. 

Though loose powder is less than ideal for taking around for touch-ups, I do find that the lid closes tightly enough so as not to cause a powder spill in your bag. 

Consistency

The powder is silky in feel and disappears into my skin when I swatch it on my hand. On my face however, I find that it can make my complexion look quite flat, even when I apply this with a damp sponge. I do notice the mattifying effect, but it sacrifices dimension to the face as a result. I also find that it emphasizes my pores greatly. It also is very detectable when used under the eyes, and highlights any lines and bumps in that area. 

I would say the powder smells fairly medicinal. I'm not irritated by the scent but if you're someone who is sensitive to any form of fragrance, keep this in mind.

Left - unblended power | Right - blended

Lasting Power

The disappointment continues here, I'm afraid! I find that this powder can only keep my skin matte for around 2 hours, even less when I'm not in an air-conditioned room. It's quite disappointing considering that the long-lasting mattifying effect is the primary claim of this product. 

I found that reapplication isn't ideal either as building the product (no matter what tool I use) leads to a very flat complexion with emphasized pores even more than it did upon first application, especially on the nose and cheeks. 

Price and Availability

Alex kindly purchased this for me in Hong Kong for around 98 HKD. I remember paying around 350 PHP for it, which isn't too bad for the amount. Sadly, Innisfree still isn't available in the Philippines, so you will have to rely on online shops (make sure they're authentic!) and family and friends travelling to Korea, Hong Kong, or Singapore to get your hands on this. 

Summary:

(+) No nonsense packaging      

(+) Affordable                         

(+) No breakouts                      

(-) Lightly scented; may cause allergies
(-) Dismal lasting power
(-) Flat complexion
(-) Emphasizes pores
(-) Not finely milled
(-) Not available in the Philippines

Maybe it was wrong for me to expect too much, but the hype around this is definitely misleading as it made it seem like the perfect powder at such a good price! While I am disappointed, I don't feel too bummed considering it was cheap. I wouldn't recommend it however, if you've been spoilt for choice with finely milled powders.

What about you - have you tried this cult classic? What are your thoughts? 

Friday, June 10, 2016

Innisfree No Sebum Powder Review

By Pauline Read More

The new lipstick favourite: Chanel Rouge Coco in Mademoiselle

I never realized how difficult it was to do a comeback post after being gone for a considerable amount of time. I've already rescheduled two posts and deleted two, thinking they weren't fit as a topic to ease everyone back into the blog. Eventually, I thought I'd share with you something that was easily love at first wear - the Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick in Mademoiselle. 

I have wanted this lipstick since I was sixteen, before Chanel reformulated the Rouge Coco range and before I could even think of stepping near a Chanel counter. I even had the lipstick number memorized (05 pre-reformulation, 434 post). It's kind of crazy, right? I forgot where I first saw a swatch of this beautiful colour, but as soon as I did I pegged it as my dream lipstick. 

Seven years and an impulse buy later - I am an impulse buyer when stressed! - I went home with this after visiting Duty Free. I may have had to access a few extra hundred pesos to scrape it but I have never been so happy with a make-up purchase in a long time.

Mademoiselle is described by Chanel as a 'warm rosewood'. To me its a dark, rosy pink with subtle brown tones to ground it. It is a colour that exudes sophistication and elegance - something that really lives up to its name. It swatches darker than it appears on the tube, but on my lips it definitely appears as a muted, rosy dark pink. It is slightly warm so do take note if you're more partial to cooler tones!

I tried it on as soon as I photographed it (knowing I'd do this post in the future - good job past me) and knew it was going to be a lifelong affair. I've worn it on an almost weekly basis, and somedays realize that I've worn it for three or four consecutive days. That's a pretty big feat considering I do like switching my make-up daily, and a clear indicator that I've fallen hard for it!

The formula is lightweight despite multiple layers, and is non-drying even after 4 hours. My lips are usually parched and begging for lip balm at that point, so I'm always pleasantly surprised when my lips are still soft. The colour lasts about 4 hours as well, but will not withstand eating and drinking. I can't say it stains considering the colour is so close to my natural lip colour, but this was something I was prepared for anyway. 

Excuse my expression -I just came home from fixing some misunderstanding that could have possibly deterred me from graduating. Also, excuse the eyebrows! I know, I'm due for a thread soon.

I usually pair this lipstick with really simple make-up - a clean base, defined lashes, a hint of dusty rose blush and sometimes some eyeliner. I find that it also pairs well with neutral eyes both shimmery and matte. I've yet to try it with my favourite gold eye look but I'd imagine it look fantastic as well!

I purchased this for USD 32 at Duty Free. It retails for PHP 1650 at Chanel counters and USD 36 in places like Nordstrom and Chanel counters in the US. Definitely on the pricey side considering its by Chanel, but if you're looking for a rosy pink lipstick and have the opportunity to splurge, I highly recommend you check this out!

What about you - have you tried this lipstick, or other lipsticks from the Rouge Coco line? Do you know of any similar colours? I'm all ears, feel free to leave me a comment below!

Friday, June 03, 2016

The new lipstick favourite: Chanel Rouge Coco in Mademoiselle

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

2015 Favourites

Better late than never, yes?

2015 did a better job at showing me who was boss than I did, so I'm honestly glad to say goodbye. While there were moments of laughter and joy, I was struggling through most of it. That, however, is not the case for make-up! I've found so many gems this year that I am more than happy to add to my permanent collection, and I can't wait to share it with all of you!

I didn't choose a product for every category, as I didn't try much from each anyway. I included those wherein I had a lot of options, or those really worthy of a mention! These products have easily obtained holy grail status and will be used until they're gone. <3

Best Base: Jouer Matte Moisture Tint (My shade: Nude)

This was tough, especially for those of you who know how much I love bases. This Jouer one is great for everyday, and is also amazing for mixing with other bases! A little goes a very long way, and the coverage and finish is amazing. This is similar to the Fairydrops Candybar BB Cream (review here) though with a faster drying time. Essentially, perfect skin in a tube! 

Best Concealer: Maybelline Master Conceal (My shade: 30 Light-Medium) (Review here)

I've reached for this concealer ever time without fail. I love its thin, lightweight consistency but good dry down time, making it great for dark circles, covering redness, and for scars. It was non-cakey on my normal and my combination skin, and looked very natural even on its own! Really amazing drugstore concealer that I would recommend to anyone!

Best Cheek Product: Too Cool for School Art Class by Rodin Createur du contour (Review here)

I never expected to love this product as much as I do now. I find that using a small amount every day makes a world of a difference in adding definition to the face without looking too obvious. It adds amazing shadow to warmer skin tones or Asian complexions like mine. I've already made a hefty dent, and yet its still going strong!

Best Eyeshadow: Too Faced Natural Matte Palette (Review here)

I have reached for this palette so much on so many occasions it's almost ridiculous. The colours are perfect for my needs, can be used alone or in conjunction with other palettes, and the formula is amazing. I still would highly recommend this palette and I will definitely be using it up until I hit pan!

Best Lipstick: MAC See Sheer

This was honestly the easiest for me to think of, despite acquiring a number of lip products this year. I have reached for this colour so many times even after the end of the warmer months, and I have loved this. Its essentially the only "coral" I would wear, which is a very big statement. This might be the first lipstick I will finish - I'll keep you all posted.

That's it for my favourites! I hope you guys liked this post and are looking forward to the year ahead as I am. Here's to a happier, better 2016!

Saturday, January 09, 2016

2015 Favourites

By Pauline Read More