Tuesday, May 31, 2016

REVIEW : Aritaum Full Cover Liquid Concealer in 02 Natural Beige



Good day guys! How are you  all doing? Today, I have here a review about Aritaum's Full Cover Liquid Concealer in 02 Natural Beige. Let's admit it. Busy days and sleepless nights really happen but we always have a choice to get up and conceal those under eye circles to look fresh everyday, right? Who's with me? Raise your hands please. ^ ^ Anyhow, let's go back to business and go straight away to this concealer.

WHAT'S IT ABOUT?
This is a high coverage concealer specifically called Full Cover Liquid Concealer in 02 Natural Beige by Aritaum, a Korean cosmetic brand. The price is about P300. This concealer promotes full coverage makeup and flawless complexion.
By the way, the formulation of this is pretty thick and creamy so remember that a little of this can already go a long way.




WHERE TO BUY?
I bought mine from a Cebu-based store named Dara beauty market. You can check their site and IG for more products. 

FYI: They sell really good and reasonable Korean products in the market. Check them out.
http://darapageph.blogspot.com/


HOW TO USE IT?
The concealer comes in a tube. Squeeze a pea size amount of this product and dab on the skin/ troubled area which you want to conceal. Doing it gradually and little by little is better to avoid  it looking cake-y and heavy on the skin. 

 As you can see from the first photo of this, a pea size amount really goes a long way when applied to the skin. The concealer has a creamy and heavy texture.


This is how my hand looks after blending and applying the concealer. Somehow the greenish veins tend not to look so visible after concealing it.



Excuse my face. ^ ^ Dark circles and eyebags are really innate in me and I will try to somehow cover them using this concealer. Let's see how my under eye area will look like after I put the concealer on.



Tadaaaa. This is how my under eye area looks now. My face doesn't look like a zombie having panda eyes whatsoever. Blending the product properly also helps to make it really sink into the skin. 




PROS
  • It is really high coverage.
  • It is creamy and not sticky at all.
  • It is easy to blend, though you need to use only a little amount of the product.
  • It is reasonably priced and the size of this can last up to 3-4 months I guess.



CONS
  • It tends to look cake-y sometimes especially if you put on so much product at once.
  • It is thick and heavy in consistency so you have to be careful in using it.
  • It can look patchy on the face so blending this is the key to make it naturally melt on the skin.

MY PERSONAL THOUGHTS
Overall, this concealer really works in minimizing the appearance of dark circles and other skin imperfections. However, if you're a make up newbie or not that familiar with thick concealer then applying this product may be tricky. I guess from my experience, I needed 2-3 times of trial in getting the right technique of blending. Applying this gradually and carefully is the key to make it actually work. Once blended, the results are pretty good and satisfying actually.


Let me know guys if you tried this one also. As I always say, sharing information is good to help each other grow and develop. That's it for now. Hope you're all having a good day. Take care.




Thursday, May 19, 2016

Holika Holika Dessert Time Lip Balm

Hello everyone. Today I am back to do a review on Holika Holika's Dessert Time Lip Balm. First of all, I want to do a shoutout to Holika Holika Philippines for giving this to me as my prize in one of their Instagram giveaways. Hurray!!!  Anyhow, look at this beauty right here. A lip balm packaged in a cupcake design? It makes me hungry already. ^ ^



What is it about?
This lip balm is part of a very cute collection of Holika Holika's  DESSERT THEME. How adorable right?  I have here a cupcake version of that with a heart topping on it. It has a strawberry scent and creates a transparent and sheer red tint on the lips when applied.



Where to buy?
You can check out the nearest Holika Holika shops. Some online shops also sell them in reasonable prices.



This is how it looks on my hand.


This is how it looks when applied on the lips having a light red tint to it with a bit of glossy finish.



PROS 
  • It does moisturize the lips very well.
  • It has a natural red tint that looks good on the lips when applied and adds a natural glossy finish.
  • It is very easy to bring along anywhere because it's very compact and light.
  • The cute packaging is a winner for me. This is a good lip balm to any young girl who just wants to moisturize their lips. It can also serve as a good gift idea for them as well.

CONS
  • You'll have to apply this using the fingers so it's not very sanitary to use.
  • The moisturizing effect is not long lasting so you'll have reapply this once desired. More or less, a decent amount of 2 hours is good for this lip balm.
  • The plastic packaging isn't that durable, better be careful when opening this.Mine got busted but still I continue to use this nonetheless. 

MY PERSONAL THOUGHTS
This lip balm is a good starter to any kids/ young teens who want to try something cute and fancy without sacrificing the quality of the product. It surely gives our lips a good amount of moisture and adding a good red tint and glossy finish when applied. It feels like having a sweet dessert every time we put this on. Just make sure you have clean fingers when you apply this to avoid some problems or something.

That's it for today. Hope you enjoy this short review. Enjoy the rest of the week.











Thursday, May 12, 2016

TRAVEL : One day Experience in Maribago Bluewaters Beach Resort


Hi guys. This time I will start my own version of travel series here and there to document the places I've been to just like having a personal diary online. One day, this will be something to look back and say to myself that yes, I was able to maximize my time while balancing my life between work and play. Nostalgic music starts to play in my mind. :)

Anyhow, I got this really good deal during one of the travel fairs in Ayala center Cebu selling Bluewaters vouchers for day tours in Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort. I mean how can I resist this kind of offer combining the cheap price and the quality knowing it's one of the high-end beach resorts in Mactan. Right? You feel me, don't you?

What's it about?
A day tour in the resort includes having the privilege of using their amenities including the white sand beach, swimming pool and free lunch to highlight the day. Lunch dining is done in Allegro restaurant not including the drinks. Lunch buffet is strictly from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.










Where is it located?


It is located in Buyong, Maribago, Mactan island Cebu 6015, Philippines
Telephone # : +63 32 492 0100 / 232 5411


How much is it?
My voucher actually costs only P1,050 and it's already good for 2 persons, good for day use only.


I've got this information online about the regular rates of their DAY USE
Adults ( 12 years old and above)
Weekdays ( M - TH ) P1,450 net
Weekends ( F- Su and Holidays ) P 1,750 net

Children ( 5 y/o to 11 y/o)
Weekdays ( M- Th) P 725.00 net
Weekends ( F- Su and Holidays) P875.00 net
TAKE NOTE: Prices may change without prior notice.













What are the activities to do there?


1. Relax and spend your time in the beachfront area
The beach area pretty looks decent, clean and most importantly quiet. It's a perfect spot to drink some cold drinks while having a good talk with your loved ones. You can sit in one of the beach chairs or you may opt to sit on the sand for a beach-y vibe kind of effect.


2. Experience a world-class fusion of cuisines in Allegro restaurant ( inclusive in the day tour voucher/ package )


The foods there are a good mix of meat, salad, pasta, pizza and desserts. I highly recommend trying their Thai Iced Tea Pitcher. It's the bomb and will absolutely give you a refreshing feeling all afternoon.


3. Spend some quiet time nearby the pool area.


You can read a good book there while killing the time. You can also enjoy and listen to music. Plus, you can dip and swim in the pool if you don't mind the sun's heat. :) Knowing the fact there are 3 big swimming pools to choose from is always a plus. The main pool though is located beside the Allegro restaurant. The other pools are located in the Amuma Spa Wing and Garden Wing. 


4. Play some sports activities in the beach front area.
There are some boats, volleyball area and some kayak to try if you feel adventurous enough. Definitely going to the nearby island is always a good try to sweat it out after pigging out for the whole day.
** Other activities can also be enjoyed like billiards, table tennis and the life-sized chess board



5. Enjoy the facilities of this world-class beach resort.
You can try to use their hammocks. They are basically everywhere. For families with kids, you can try the children's playground area at the grove and the kiddie playroom that are both suitable for them. Plus, if you're sociable enough, mingling with foreigners is also a good experience I must say.



TIP: You can check out their facebook page once in a while to get the latest promos available. It's like hitting two birds with one time, getting the voucher in cheaper prices and enjoying the world class beach resort at the same time. Here are the links that may be helpful. Happy summer everyone.

















Wednesday, May 11, 2016

REVIEW: IT'S SKIN POWER 10 FORMULA CO EFFECTOR



Hi guys. In today's agenda, I am going to review a collagen serum called the Power 10 Formula Co  Effector by Korean brand, It's Skin. As what you've noticed, it has a Co in its name and that basically means it's a product with collagen. I bought this one because it was highly recommended by the saleslady in Myeong-dong, SK telling me it's one of their bestsellers. Upon hear that, I was instantly sold. One more, the price  is quite reasonable with all the benefits it promises to give so why not buy and try it myself. Kkkk


Where to buy it?
I bought mine in Korea when I went there last year and it was around 12,000 WON.  But you can also check Althea.com to check this out. Here's the link for you.

PS It's actually cheaper there on the site. It only costs around P390.



What's it about?
It is a collagen serum concentrated with vegetable collagen extracts that hydrates the skin from the inside. It promises to create more elasticity and makes the skin glowing and smooth.


The size is 30 ml.


What are the ingredients?
hydrolyzed extensin, water, butylene glycol, glycerin, polyglutanic acid, carbomer, triethanolamine, methylparaben, disodium EDTA, chlorphenesin, fragrance


Interestingly, the color of the serum also has the same color of the bottle itself. It's kind of orange/ light brown-ish hue. Good concept though.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCES 
This serum has a mild floral scent but not that overpowering. The consistency is thicker than a normal lotion. Ideally, you will need 2- 3 drops for the whole face and neck.  I prefer to apply this after I put on my toner and emulsion. Anyhow, after applying this serum, I feel this consistency makes my skin instantly brighter and smoother instantly. However, I felt the effects of this serum are quite temporary and not long-lasting. I've been using this for 1-2 months but still the effects were just pleasant and not that noticeable. I guess it also depends on how often and how much you use it, I suppose.


PROS
  • It gives enough moisture upon application.
  • It also give an instant whitening / brightening effect on the skin.
  • It is reasonably priced compared to other serum available in the market.
  • It is easily absorbed on the skin.
  • It helps to lighten my chicken pox scars on my face.  Yey!
  • The serum comes with a medicine dropper applicator so it is economical to use as we can control how much or how little we would like to use it.

CONS
  • The effects of the serum are not long-lasting.
  • I guess it doesn't suit people ages from 20's to 40's.

MY PERSONAL THOUGHTS

I have mixed feelings about this Collagen serum. First, I had high hopes about this because this serum is actually one of the best selling products from the POWER 10 Series of serums.  Though it only gave some pleasant effects on me but not that great as I expected it to be. :(

However, I gave this serum to my Mom too. She's in the silver age generation already. I told her to use this everyday and  report to me the results that she can see, feel and notice about this Collagen serum. Oh boy, the serum actually works effectively on her skin type. I have even noticed that the line on her forehead, eye area and near the mouth somehow tend not to be visible. Her face lightened too. She's very satisfied with this serum. 


TAKE NOTE: The effects don't happen overtime. It takes 2-3 months with regular use.
Overall, if we belong to the same generation  (30's), then this collagen serum from It's Skin isn't for us. But for all mothers out there, check this out and it won't disappoint. Pretty good size with a reasonable price.

Tuesday, May 3, 2016

PRODUCT EMPTIES # 2 The Lucky SEVEN

Hello everyone! Happy new month of May! How is it going so far?  I am back with another series of my product empties .This is my second installment  of the products I've used and consumed. Some of them I love and dislike independently. Let's get back to business and reveal my list of empties. 

Here they are. I present my product empties # 2 which I call  The Lucky SEVEN

1. DAISO  Body Lotion 

size: 1 L
This is a whitening body lotion with collagen. Basically, this is the main reason why I bought it. Haha You can find this in any Daiso store nationwide. It costs P88 only. 

VERDICT: It didn't make my skin whiter or anything. At least, I was hoping it could give me a kind of moisturizer effect but still, it failed. You guessed it right! I won't repurchase this anymore sadly.


2.  DOLL KISS Olive Watering Hand Cream

size: 80 ml / 2.7  OZ
This is hand cream from DOLL KISS which is a Korean brand. This was an impulse purchase  because it was only 3,000 WON, kinda cheap somehow.  

VERDICT:  I had high hopes with this hand cream because it was a Korean product. Unfortunately, it didn't come out nicely as expected. It did give me a kind of moisture in my hands are but only for a short time, let's say just 5- 10 minutes only. Also, it is a kind of silicone-type material so I felt it isn't easily absorbed by the skin. A TOTAL FAIL FOR ME. Sorry.


3. Rucy's  Vanity Auto Eyebrow Pencil in brown

size: 0.33 mm
This is an eyebrow pencil that is easily retractable to use. It is easily blend-able and gives a good shade of subtle brown.

VERDICT: Yes, I'd buy this again soon. I love how easy it glides on my eyebrow hair. I also love the brown shade of it too. Just do be careful in applying  it with your hands to avoid breaking the pencil inside. 


4. DOVE Nourishing Body Wash

size : 400 ml
This is Dove Coconut Milk with Jasmine body wash that is blended with NutriumMoisture. After using it, it leaves the skin feeling restored and nourished. The comforting scent always gives a state of tranquility. 

VERDICT: Yes, yes, yes! I'll repurchase this again. It always gives me a pleasant and relaxed feeling after shower. It's like having a spa experience at home whenever I use this.

5. POND'S Perfect Care Facial Wash

size: 50 g
This is a facial wash that gently cleans the skin, leaving it radiantly smooth and soft. It is also enriched with VITA-CLEANSERS and PRO-MOISTURIZERS  that are both good for the skin.

VERDICT: My feeling about this is quite soso. It's like I still prefer the black version of Pond's facial wash. However, I appreciate how it makes my skin soft and smooth after washing.

6. ETUDE HOUSE Surprise Essence Concealer in # 1 Light Beige

** These 2 photos I grabbed from the internet. Credits to the owner.

This is a concealer that has a round shaped applicator. The formulation of the concealer contains honey nutrition essence that leaves the skin moisturized. 

VERDICT: It's a decent concealer for me. Somehow it lightens my dark circles under my eyes and some skin blemishes. However, it isn't long lasting and doesn't do the job well like the other Korean concealers sold in the market. Because of that, I won't buy this anymore.


7 The BodyShop's Almond Hand and Nail Cream


size: 30 ml
This has a double purpose hand cream that also cares for our nails. It contains 3 manicurist's essentials that are sweet almond oil and panthenol. It is moisturizing, conditions nails and has a sweet almond scent.

VERDICT: It is truly a good hand cream sold in the market. It is very moisturizing and soothing to the skin. Also, the effect is somewhat long lasting especially if you leave this to your hands and nails overnight. God job, The Body Shop.


That's it guys. I've just presented my Empties series # 2. Have you used any of them? Let me know your thoughts and experiences. As I always say, sharing information online is always a good thing. Have a good week guys. Take care y'all.