A big announcement is here to be made! Like, right now! Were any of you seeking a chance to break into the beauty biz? One of these next few days might be your big day! Between May 14-20, follow the mechanics of the contest ASAP and get the chance to win a 3-month beauty internship courtesy of Benefit Cosmetics PH and Fashion Intern PH! It started 2 days ago, hence this early post so if you want it get your big beauty butt moving over to Benefit Cosmetics at Greenbelt 5…but sit and read this contest primer with all the deets just for 5 minutes before doing so.
Visit Benefit Cosmetics in Greenbelt 5 to create your instructional make-up video using Benefit products. (Recording and make-up on us!)
Book your store visit to record your entry here. If you’re in the area, walk-ins are allowed too!
Submission of entries is from May 14-20, 2012, 1-3pm at Benefit in Greenbelt 5.
Video should not be more than 3 minutes.
It all sounds very exciting especially for fresh grads still enjoying the summer heat! If I didn’t have my own makeup career going and weren’t such an old lady already I’d actually grab the opportunity and join this contest! Here are the terms and conditions and the prizes at stake.
PRIZES AT STAKE:
6 interns will be selected for pre-finals to:
Spend a 3-week immersion at Benefit (includes make-up training, sales and marketing, event planning).
To walk the runway in the launch of the new lip gloss collection, Box ‘O Powder (see photo above) on June.
2 interns will be selected and get a 3-month internship and freebies from Benefit.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Applicants should be at least 18 years old and above
Fashion Intern PH and Benefit have the right to use and publish all submitted materials (sample, texts and photographs) under the companies’ discretion to promote the program, publicize the activities of Fashion Intern PH and Benefit, and etc.
I’ve reviewed this lipstick range before, but the Make Up For Ever PH team invited me to check out the new family members of the Rouge Artist lipstick clan, the Rouge Artist Natural range. Er…it’s kinda “palpak” (or fail) in a sense because…I didn’t come away from the event with one of the Rouge Artist Naturals because I swapped my peachy Rouge Artist Natural from my press kit (I really didn’t prefer the shade) with another blogger who had a Rouge Artist Intense lipstick. Before I continue the tale, here are a few photos from the event.
My friend happened to have a plum purple Rouge Artist Intense lipstick (opaque pigment), which was still quite lovely, but not a Rouge Artist Natural (I liked the color so much I didn’t care), so how can I show you guys the new Natural finish? LOL! Anyway, the gist there was I swapped because we were not allowed to choose our shade and I absolutely didn’t prefer the shade I got in my kit (due to limited stock on some colors I guess). We discussed the varying finishes as part of the Rouge Artist range and tested out some colors on models who were present.
For your information, Rouge Artist Naturals are the MUFE lipsticks with the high-shine sheer finish of a glorified Revlon Colourburst Lip Butter, perfect for midsummer days and nights. MUFE Rouge Artist Natural lipsticks are everything I hoped the Revlon Lip Butters would be, but you’ll have to be patient before I can purchase one of the RA Naturals to show off. Anyway onto the new Rouge Artist Intense lipsticks I have. Read more for the full post.
This is a bit anti-climactic dontcha’ think? It ought to have been one of my first posts perhaps, but then again…over time I’ve collected some really interesting makeup items that work since I’m a makeup professional (folio here) and part-time beauty blogger. A few of my blogger friends can’t seem to keep their hands off my stash when I’m around for an event and of course it evolves frequently. Here, however, is my current collection. There’s one item I took out coz I don’t really use it. I’ll make a quick mention later.
I use one of Muji’s clear “kikay” kits. A lot of you must be going “Dapat ba Muji…e ang dami dami diyan na mura” oh yes I’ve had lots of those cheaper versions, the ones with zippers that tear straight off the opening after a few uses and burst or crack open at the seams and creases. Even some from beabi didn’t work well for me.
“No more” I said, a few months back, I got this medium size, fat clear case from Muji for about Php400 that embraces all without bursting prematurely and is stitched all around with fabric. So, here are the contents.
I’m pretty surprise at how many of these items I’ve already reviewed and that the kit contains exactly 30 items. Of course as a follow up to this a few posts ahead I will narrow down the kit to my TOP 10 essentials. The item I removed was the flesh colored Stila Eye pencil in topaz…it was too melty for our country, too soft. Am more excited because I have a lot of catching up to do, I have lots of goodies to review for you guys in the next few days, sorry I’ve been busy. I’ll make it up to you. Stay tuned for the MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist launch and review of the lipsticks I came away with from that event
I quickly told Dad not to throw the cocktail “umbrellettes” we scored from some fruit shakes, because I had to show you guys this little lot I love with a bit of summer flair.
Clockwise: 1.) Evian Natural Mineral Water “Brumisateur” Facial Spray 50 ml FROM PCX Php189.00, 2.) Elizabeth Arden 8-Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick SPF 15 US$17 FROM StrawberryNET 3.) Clean & Clear Oil Control Film pink blot sheets, Grapefruit Scented Php100+ FROM PCX
Two days ago that day was recorded as the hottest day of the year for the Philippines. Truth be told I’ve only used 2 of the 3 items here so far because I just recently bought the blot sheets and have been simply sniffing the box every time I have it because of the lovely citrus grapefruit scent, these also come in a blue unscented version. The most used item in this lot so far is the Elizabeth Arden Lip Protectant Stick. I like it so much because for me it’s the balm ABOVE ALL NON-ORGANIC BALMS if I were to categorize it correctly. It’s a luxurious product that really soothes the lips and since it’s in stick form it’s a less messy way to apply Elizabeth Arden 8-Hour cream on your lips without it oozing everywhere.
This travel-friendly size of Evian spray is quite nostalgic. I remember when the bottle used to be different and my grandmother and aunts had big ones on their dressing tables. I’d crumple up my little face in anticipation of a refreshing spritz from one of these. For lots of people it’s a bit of a novelty and a “waste” because it isn’t a refillable bottle and the idea of spraying high end mineral water on one’s face doesn’t cut it I guess. For me though this feels really SOOTHING, there’s something about the spritzer and the mineral water cooling the surface of my face, it’s a really relaxing, calming feeling especially since the heat has been so unbearable. I think the bigger size of this spray is a bit of an overkill though which is why I opted for this travel-friendly 50ml bottle. For best results stick one in the fridge for a few hours to get the most out of the cool part. I was actually supposed to throw in once again my current favorite Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation in the group shot for this one but it was already part of my large Summerization feature and that was the 2nd time I talked about it already. What are your travel size favorites now this summer? Do you have any in particular?
The heat is on! I’ve been wanting to do this post for a few days now, but the lazy summer mood got to me. One or two of these items are new but I’ve been using them practically everyday since I got it, and two of the items are almost empty.
1. Shikai Natural Color Care Shampoo – I picked this up at S&R, I forget now whether it was Fort or Alabang, but both outlets should have it. It’s about Php500 and I like that it’s a natural lathering, UV shielding color care formula with a light scent and with an ingredients list that isn’t as long as your leg. I’ll review it soon. They also have a normal variant for untreated hair.
2. Maybelline VolumExpress HyperCurl Waterproof Mascara – I’ve reviewed this na in the past and I’m liking it even more now. It’s a great ALL-AROUND mascara that holds curl, isn’t too gloopy, doesn’t clump and gives just the right of volume without smudging.
3. The Body Shop Banana Conditioner - I LOVE THIS. Basically, this is how good it is, it’s got that yummy tropical scent, if you like bananas and a bit of coconut, I don’t think there’s coconut but something in it smells similar. It’s made my color-treated hair feel like untreated healthy hair. So far I don’t get the “frizzy” dryness that usually accompanies colored hair and I’ve got bounce and shine. Bananas in Pajamas, gotta give it to ‘em. I use this every other day when shampooing. I don’t shampoo everyday to let my hair and scalp be themselves for a bit, chemical-free at least for a day in between and also to avoid unnecessary hair-fall. I’m also not a sweaty person so that’s not disgusting for me to have a non-shampoo day. They’re on sale 50% off until April 26.
4. BeFine Gentle Cleanser – I had to switch over my facial cleanser months ago because my face was suddenly mildly rejecting the Clean & Clear foaming glycerin facial wash I’ve loved for years. I think it just needed a break from unnatural chemicals. So I picked up this BeFine Gentle Cleanser from Beauty Bar, which isn’t cheap at Php900 for 100ml but it lasted me a LONG time (2-3months) because of its economical pump. It’s a paraben free, cruelty free cleanser made of mint, oats, rice and sugar. It took some getting used to because of the minty scent on the face when lathering up, a bit like the scent of a good minty toothpaste, but there’s no annoying menthol cooling feel, don’t worry. My skin feels light, refreshed and ready for a little moisturizer and I don’t get the annoying itch after.
I wrote this draft in January and forgot about it, so now I am finishing it because I started thinking about these brushes again. I’ve invested a lot of money to uproot myself from one career to another. When I chose to do professional makeup after 7 years of digital post production for TVCs one thing that frustrated me every time I would do research was the cost of good, professional makeup brushes. If you’ve been inside a M.A.C. store you know what I mean. I’ve worked with Suesh brushes as well (which I recommend for beginner artists) and Sigma brushes also do the job nicely but quite a number of Sigma’s brushes tend to SHED like pets after a several uses (actually even some MAC brushes do, too). Becca brushes are exquisite as well, but cost a fortune. As an artist I’m particular about how a brush APPEARS to me, I’m not drawn toward the likes of pink, aqua, or purple when it comes to makeup brush colors simply because they don’t look professional to me. Online, I’ve just come across a lesser known brand, Bdellium Tools, from California. I couldn’t believe it, on my brush checklist this brand ticked every box, affordability, appearance, and evident professional quality, but their range of tools also have a brilliant bonus, some of their brushes are even antibacterial. They remind me of how professional the Make Up For Ever brushes also look.
StrawberryNET Online Discount Cosmetic shoppingwith Free Worldwide Shipping from Hong Kong relieves my frustration as a local beauty blogger who often can’t get certain imported items here from the limited brand counter selections available. I’ve blogged about StrawberryNET several times and nearly each announcement of a new sale never fails to bring me to the site to check out what’s up for grabs. I don’t always walk away with a purchase, but I like being in the know almost all the time.
What makes StrawberryNET special for me is the rotation of discounted luxury cosmetics, constant promos, and the quality and speed with which they dispatch orders (I usually receive mine within 2 weeks from the purchase). On top of that, every purchase increases your chances of getting an added loyalty discount on top of your discounted purchase.
What’s still pretty new with StrawberryNet is their online app for iPhone and Android smartphone users. It’s convenient and right at your fingertips and you can even track the dispatch and processing of a purchase you’ve made using the app. Check out StrawberryNET and see what’s on and affordable for you at the moment! Here are their upcoming promos for the remainder of March 2012. I just made my 7th purchase ever from StrawberryNET and I’ll be sharing here what items I got when they arrive in a few weeks! Am sooo excited…
I love it when friends ask me to help them out on their big day. It gives me added value to know they want me there, and not just there, right smack in the bride’s face, too, haha! I’ve known Patricia since the Young Adults camp hosted by New Life Christian Center when I was about 21 I think. She was the first person to hug me even though I was new, and make me feel welcome and I was more than honored when I was asked to do her makeup on her wedding day.
Some of the other bloggers who got to try this before I did weren’t kidding, these affordable lipsticks by direct selling brand, Colour Collection, which I last posted about, do pack a punch of instant color that’s apparently quite good value for money. One other blogger friend said that they kinda wear, smell, and taste like MAC lipsticks. At first, very thankful for the insight but politely holding back my nasal skeptic snort I was like “Really now, hmmm…let’s see!!”. First off, the packaging is no showboat but really does not diminish the performance of these lipsticks.
FROM LEFT: Bordeaux (earthy rich red, like MAC Russian Red), Walnut (a caramelly coral), and Angel Berry (bright coral pink)
SWATCHES L-R: Walnut, Angel Berry, and Bordeaux
The Colour Collection Colour Intense lipstick texture does not disappoint with a moist but not greasy finish and instant bold color on the first swipe, in the “color impact” department, these remind me of MAC amplified creme finish lipsticks. I swiped the colors twice in my swatches and encountered only a hint of soft drag upon swiping them across my arm. That is what makes these not “exact” dupes for MAC lipsticks, MAC formulas (with slight variations among the different finishes) are generally richer and more dense…there’s a bit more stick and drag when you swipe a MAC lipstick on your lips which ensures both bold color and longevity. The wear on these Colour Intense lipsticks are closer to MAC’s cremesheen finishes in the “texture” department.
My absolute favorite among all three shades is the super pretty red, Bordeaux. It was too much for me as a red worn full on. With my fat lips Bordeaux in full wear made it look like I could leave a kiss mark the size of the apple of your cheek (no, didn’t want to post that, check the hand swatch to see how dark it is). So I blotted it once with a tissue and nearly squeaked seeing the result. It was just unbelievably pretty and I prefer to wear reds like this for the summer, it’s kind of a more modern take and it sets your lipstick longevity, adding at least a good I’d say 2 hours to the existing 3-4 hour wear. Yes, they do smell and taste like MAC lipsticks, I don’t contest that observation at all.
Colour Collection’s Colour Intense lipsticks cost Php350.00 each. It’s a real pity we don’t readily have access to Colour Collection products in retail just yet. For now if you’re absolutely interested to try these, Colour Collection’s Mother Company, Tupperware Brands is the authorized distributor of some of the world’s prestigious brands: Colour Collection, Iyana, VS. Versus, Nutrimetrics, Playtex, Hanes, and Zwitsal. For your questions and inquiries regarding Colour Collection products, email Tupperware Brands atquestions@Tupperware.phor call the hotline number (632) 867-2222.
This story is a month overdue and as a result I can’t properly plug the Colour Collection Campus bus tour they had then which just finished last March 2… *points down at self* LOZER (on that one). However, they had already been to U.P. Diliman for the campus tour before this press launch because they showed us the video. All I can say now is a few words in appreciation of that brilliant campaign and after this post I ought to hastily review the lovely products they gave me. Sunny makeup lady, Bianca Valerio, as Colour Collection’s on board makeup artist showed us her Colour Collection Campus Tour Bus containing the Colour Collection range of products. The bus was custom fit and decked out with vanities and makeup products inside for nomadic product demonstration. Sorry bout not posting this earlier, I didn’t mean to miss it, as in. Like I said, I’ve currently got a bad case of events backlog just from last month because of shoots and other things which I’m quickly trying to fix right now. Last February 6 I was invited by Liz of Project Vanity to attend Tupperware Brands’ Colour Collection cosmetics launch, an intimate press lunch for local brand direct selling makeup in the company of the lovely makeup artist/model Bianca Valerio. P.S., I’ll be trying my best not to drop “U”s all over the place…because of the “U” in Colour Collection. Scream at me if you spot one I missed.
All that I knew about Bianca, before having a delicious brunch at Cafe 1771, was about her being a famous makeup artist who had just recently launched her own makeup book also sponsored by Colour Collection, Face to Face – The Healing Power of Makeup. The book is available at National Bookstore and 100% of Bianca’s book royalties go to charity via Philippine Red Cross. It’s a great gift to get for someone you know and simultaneously for someone in need.
These are some items I requested AFTER the launch in ADDITION to the items they originally gave me at the Colour Collection event (upcoming review).
Colour Collection Triple Effect Mascara and 3 Colour Intense lipsticks (Bordeaux, Angel Berry, Walnut) which are the ones mentioned by Liz of Project Vanity as having quality comparable to MAC lipsticks,
Not in this Photo: At the event I was also given their BB Cream, an eyeshadow quad, and a lip tint which I will blog about separately.
Read more to hop onto the Colour Collection Bus with us bloggers in the full post plus catch a video of Bianca sharing her thoughts on Colour Collection products!
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