Yes ladies, that's right. I had the real pleasure of learning from the master, Celebrity Makeup Artist Jigs Mayuga! This is the second Mac Technique event in Cebu, which was held at Marriot Hotel on the 26th of April. I was lucky enough to have been invited to join the first Mac Technique last year too, which you can read HERE and I feel blessed that I had the chance to attend this year's event as well. (Thanks to Big Seed Media)


The MAC Technique is where we learn M.A.C's current trends for 2014.  This year M.A.C says
"This season is about tweaking and revealing beauty, not reinventing it." What we’re seeing for SS14 (Spring/Summer 2014) is a shift towards something more subtle and alive.

Organic, elementally inspired colours and textures feel more apt than anything synthetic, and the beauty missive cited most often backstage was for “Radiance” and “Reality” rather than drama,
high-glamour or fantasy.

DAY-GLOW cheeks are the new way to study skin and a “raw” complexion finds a new narrative in a sporty lexicon…Light FX speaks to the prevailing radiance that is so relevant now…CC-Thru Colour tunes in to the corrective cast that cool and warm tones bring to brightening the face…THE NEW EYE-DEAL reinvents the eye accents that subtly play into contemporary
enhancement. “The main thread throughout the season is the idea of Outdoor, Day-lit Beauty.


Jigs showed us how to create CC-Thru Colour and Day Glow. He first showed us CC-Thru Colour makeup look, where you can choose either to accentuate your eyes, cheeks or lips.

MAC says, "Artists are redefining and widening the conversation of what a “natural” makeup can be, and pushing the boundary on colours that are strong, yet have an innate affinity with the skin’s tone."


A pop of color on one part of your face is all you need. Jigs decided to focus on the model's lips. It's all about the skin being very bare, outdoors and under the sun.



These are the steps and products used on the model:
- apply Mac Moisture infusion serum to keep the skin supple
- followed by Mac Natural radiance base on highlight points (temples, brow bone, bridge of nose etc)
- start with Mac Paint Pot in Bare Study on the lid with a synthetic brush (acts as a base)
- use Metallic eyeshadow in bronze shade on the crease using a Mac 217 brush, starting on the bridge of the nose going outwards.
- blend the shadow with a clean Mac 239 brush, then using a Mac 224 brush to pick up a bit of bronze eyeshadow and blend again.
- curl her lashes from starting from base, center and the tips
-  apply false lashes and mascara, then comb the lashes with a spoolie to remove clumps.

Jigs also showed us how he grooms Brows:
- measure the brows (you can search google for reference)
- use spoolie to brush outwards
- use 2 shades of Mac brow liner in Fling (near the bridge of the nose) and Lingering (on the center) and a Mac Brow marker to define the tail of the brows.
- you can use concealer with a flat brush to clean up the brows
- use Mac mineralize foundation and set with a bit of msf powder

- define lips with an orangey lip liner using a lip brush, blend the Mac Prolongwear lipstick in Good To Go with the liner


The second makeup look is called Day Glow.  “Whatever you do this season, the complexion has to be summery, gorgeous and glowing,” says Tom Pecheux of this inclination for a spa-like, minimal skin. “A dewy finish is simply more feminine than a matte one, agrees Terry Barber. “We are using highlights and emollient textures to emulate the way that light falls on a fresh, young skin”. 

Good Day ladies! It has been a while since I posted something personal and non-beauty related. I recently went to Bantayan Island with my office mates last week and so I thought I'd share a few beach photos with you.

Being married and being a mom of two doesn't give me much time for myself. This year, I decided to have some "Me Time" and joined our team building activity (Systems Department). They actually do this every year but I always end up not joining because I can't bring myself to leave my kiddos for more than a day. hehe (moms will be moms) However, I felt like this break was long overdue, so I took the chance and finally joined my team's summer outing.


We stayed at Mayet Beach Resort in Santa Fe, Bantayan Island. The Island was actually one of the most affected places during Super Typhoon Yolanda and we're just happy to see that most part of the island has been repaired.


I haven't seen crystal clear blue waters like this in a really long time and place was just a breath of fresh air. Amidst the scorching heat ,the beach was was so clean and serene that I ended up staring at it. Of course with an inner self dialogue in my head "darker skin awaits me, but I sure am glad I came here!"

Yes guys, you read that right! Aeropostale has finally opened it's doors to us Cebuanos. Not familiar? Aéropostale, Inc. is a mall-based, specialty retailer of casual apparel and accessories, principally targeting young women and men through its Aéropostale® stores in US, Canada, Middle East, Asia and Europe.

Aeropostale officially opened in Ayala Center Cebu last April 25, 2014 which is located at the New Wing, ground floor near Zara.

I was so giddy to get inside the store when I heard about their opening and see what they have to offer. I visited their store last Wednesday, May 7 and saw that they currently have a 40% Off Sale on some of their display racks. Not sure when the sale will end though, so you better check it out fast.


The first thing that I instantly noticed was their fashion watches. If you ladies don't know, I have a thing for wrist watches. If others love bags or shoes, I prefer to buy watches. They all looked so pretty, chic and sturdy but glad I stopped myself from buying. LOL! It is priced at around Php 1,600 each.


They offer a vast selection of apparel for both men and women. The Hoodie corner in the Men's section caught my eye, because the variety of colors they currently have are vibrant and refreshing.


They also carry vibrant polo shirts, which I'm sure some men will love. Among their collection were baseball caps, beach shirts and shorts, a wide variety of jeans and casual tops.


I enjoyed seeing their great selection of women's apparel which includes, wallets, flip flops, bags, belts, scarfs, shirts, dresses and ladies jeans.


My favorite part of the store was their ladies active wear section. It was color coded and my eyes were gleaming when I saw the mint / aqua collection. They also have an awesome selection of accessories, fragrances, body care and even nail polishes. In addition to that, their changing room was far from boring. It was spacious and lively.


If you're curious, most of their merchandise are priced below Php1,000 so, it's quite affordable compared to other foreign brands currently available.

I shall be visiting the Aeropostale store again, coz I have my eye on a couple of tops. hehe

Don't forget to checkout their Facebook page
Aéropostale PH to get updates for ongoing sales and discounts.

Until next time.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. I received a form of compensation from the aforementioned company. However, all editorial content are my own and written without prejudice or bias regardless of sponsor or affiliate association.

Cheerios!
**Hollie***

A few of weeks ago, I decided to buy the VMV Hypoallergenics Vacation Kit while I was perusing through some items at Zalora PH. I needed to get myself some summer essentials in preparation for our team summer outing to Bantayan Island. The whole kit was priced at only Php735 pesos, so I figured it's probably worth a try, I needed it anyway.

I really did take the whole tin can with me, because it is a great way to test out the products while I'm actually on vacation at the beach.

We went to Mayet Beach Resort in Bantayan Island for two days, where the heat was almost unbearable but the beach was just beautiful, calm, and clear, so it was still worth the trip. Amidst the scorching heat and humid weather on the island, the VMV Hypollergenics Vacation Kit proved to be very useful during our short stay.

VMV Hypoallergenics Essence Skin Saving Clark Wash - allergen-free Hair and Body "Big Softie" Shampoo. A rich, soothing, non-drying, non-irritating and rash-flaking-and-acne-preventing alternative for hair, scalp + body cleansing with super results. Provides important prevention for active therapies by keeping problems like acne, rashes and hyper-pigmentation from recurring.

Experience: I've only used this twice during my short time at the beach. It is very mild and gentle but does a great job of cleansing both my face and body. My face felt clean, fresh and well hydrated. It doesn't feel dry all. I had a bit of makeup on when I first used the VMV Hypoallergenics Essence Skin Saving Clark Wash to see how well it cleans. I then swiped a non-alcohol based toner on my face and was glad to see very little trace of makeup on the cotton pad.

I didn't use it on my hair since this wash is fragrance-free. I prefer my hair to smell good. hehe It produces little to no bubbles when I massage it on my face.  The consistency and texture actually reminds me of the Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser which I use daily for my both my little boys. But the skin saving clark wash has more of a gel-like feel to it.

Verdict: I would highly recommend this for those with sensitive skin as it is an awesome multipurpose cleanser which is mild enough for babies as well. However, I feel that it does the same thing as the Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser, so I won't be repurchasing this.


VMV Hypoallergenics ID Monolaurin Gel - is packed with a unique, skin-safe, coconut-derived  antibacterial, monolaurin which has four uses:
- Treatment for bacne and sweat acne.
- Treatment for other forms of acne on the face, chest, back, arms, posterior, thighs, etc.
- Disinfects skin.
- Works as a mattifier to control shine and keep skin feeling cool and fresh.

Experience:  I used the monolaurin gel on a couple of pimples that I had during our stay. I applied at least twice a day on affected areas. I noticed that the bumps did not get much bigger. Though it didn't dry out overnight, it all dried out on the second day of use. I continued to apply the VMV Hypoallergenics id Monolaurin Gel on my face when I came back home and it has definitely helped shrink all of the pimples on my face.

The gel is fragrance-free and it does not sting. Also, I really enjoyed the cooling sensation I get whenever I apply this gel all over my face.

Verdict: I didn't notice if it indeed control shine on my face especially the t-zone area, but this works great as treatment for any form of acne with continued use. Would I repurchase? Maybe. This 50ml bottle will probably last me a while since I only need a pea-sized amount to treat existing pimples.

Overall, the VMV Hypoallergenics Vacation Kit was worth every penny. Their products are of high quality and perfect for my sensitive skin. Also, I felt that this kit is a good way to out different products from the brand. Definitely, Hollie Approved!

What products have you tried from the brand? Do share.

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Early this year, I joined a contest on Instagram which was hosted by Flawless. Luckily, I won the Flawless Acne Control Kit and the products were sent to me last March. I tested out the products for about a month, so keep reading to know more about it.


These are the exact contents of the kit they sent me. However, when I checked out their website, the Flawless Acne Control Kit is supposed to be only 4 products. Based on their website, the Kit contains the Flawless SAS Soap, Flawless Pimple Care Astringent, Flawless Skin Protect Gel and the Flawless Skin White Therapy. You can check out the prices on their website.



The Flawless team was kind enough to send me the ISKIN New York Makeup Eraser. The Eraser make-up remover is a technologically advanced make-up remover that removes make-up and impurities without causing dryness or irritation. Drier skins adore this quick, soothing cleansing solution.

Experience: I've used this makeup remover for about a month now and I would say it's a good water-based makeup remover, as it removes most of my makeup except for my stubborn waterproof mascara. However, the scent of the remover is off putting.  I still prefer my Bioderma over this.


They also sent me the Flawless Pore Refiner which is supposed be included in their Oil Control Kit. This toner is specially formulated to minimize pores as well as lift and tone the skin, allowing for a more radiant and youthful complexion.

Experience: The toner itself feels refreshing after application. I did not feel any stinging on my face while I applied this toner. Since I have only been using it for a couple of weeks, I did not see any change if it has indeed help reduce the appearance of large pores.

The Flawless Pimple Care Astringent claims to help prevent the formation of pimples.

Experience: I only used this astringent when I had a couple of bumps on my face. or Every time I feel like there's a pimple coming. I noticed how it quickly dried out my pimples overnight. This astringent does sting a little but it really works. 



The Flawles SAS Soap is a specially designed soap made to combat acne by targeting acne-causing bacteria and decreasing oiliness of acne-prone skin.

Experience: I decided to let my friend try this soap, since she has acne-prone skin. As per my friend Lisa, she actually really loves the soap. She noticed that her face has become less greasy, especially every time she wakes up in the morning. She says, it feels nice apply on her face because the soap easily becomes foamy. She said, it did not sting and has really helped her face become less oily and has helped prevent new pimples from forming.



The Flawless Skin Protect Cream helps protect the skin against photo damage; delays wrinkling, sagging and uneven discoloration of skin.

Experience:  Out of all the products from this kit, the Flawless Skin Protect Cream is my favorite among the bunch. I really like the fact that it's not greasy at all. It glides on easily and quickly absorbs into my skin. The scent is pleasant too. I've been using this every single day in the morning before I put on any makeup. I do feel that it has helped protect my skin from our erratic weather. Because, I noticed that my face has become less patchy and more even toned. In addition to that, this tub only costs Php290 pesos and it lasted me for more than a month.

Overall, their products are not bad at all, especially considering the affordable price. They have different kits available like, a whitening kit, oil control kit, and more. Most of which are priced around Php1,000 per kit.

For more information about Flawless products and their kits please visit their website HERE. Or you can also follow them on Instagram @myflawless.

How about you ladies has any of you tried any product or services from Flawless?

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Happy Easter everyone! I hope you all had a good rest during the Holy Week. Anyway, I have mentioned before in my previous posts, that I am now a shade lighter. So, naturally I had to switch my powder. I used to be in the shade C40 for the Mac Studio Fix Powder but now I'm using the shade NC35. Just a heads up, the C range shades has more yellow undertone compared to the NC shades.

Some of you might remember that this product was included in my December Haul which I posted early this year. I feel like that you might be interested to see what NC35 looks like.


Here is what I look like with and without the powder. If you noticed, the Mac Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation has excellent coverage, that's why I rarely find the need to use a concealer.

It has been over a year since Sample Room opened their doors for us ladies and they continue to provide women with FREE products to try. And yes, I said FREE. Every product featured in Sample Room, as long as it is in stock is absolutely yours to try.

Good Day ladies! I'm slacking on my blog posts again. I just had a very busy week, and I didn't have time to take product photos. To summarize everything that happened, my younger sister graduated from college with a BS Psychology degree and my little Enzo just graduated with honors from Kinder 2 (I'm a Proud Mama!). My sister-in-law and my husband just graduated from law school, Yay! on to the Bar Exams! My older brother and I just celebrated our Birthdays. So, there were a lot of food feast involved, thus explains my busy week. LOL

Okay, enough blabber from me on to the review.  Like some of you, I am still on the hunt for my HG (holy grail) Face Toner. After finishing up my Moringa O2 Facial Toner, I decided to try out the Ziaja Phytoaktiv Face Toner which I bought at Beauty Bar last December 2013. I was just randomly looking at products from Beauty Bar then this baby pink cap caught my eye. When I read what was written on the bottle, it said that it was for sensitive skin and it was alcohol free, so I immediately bought it. After finally finishing up the whole bottle, here is what I have to say.