Good Day ladies! Here's another lipstick swatch for ya. If you've read my December 2013 Haul which I posted early January, you've seen the Bobbi Brown Creamy Matte Lip Color which I received as a surprise gift from Bobbi Brown Philippines! Yeepeee ^_^

You can only imagine how excited I was when I received an email from them saying that I have a gift waiting for me at their Bobbi Brown Counter here in Cebu at Rustan's Ayala. and yes I was literally grinning as I dropped by the counter. LOL

Who’s It For
Women who want a full coverage, semi-matte lipstick

How to Use
Apply straight from the tube or with the Lip brush on clean, bare lips, or over the Lip Balm. If desired, blot with tissue for a matte finish.


How It Works
Perfect Coverage in a Single Application/Intense Color Impact
- Creamy Matte Lip Color is formulated with an exceptionally high pigment load for intense color payoff in a single application. Traditionally, matte lipsticks are not offered in such a varied shade range because the more pigment that exists within the formula, the drier it tends to be.

Moisturizes and Conditions
- Creamy Matte Lip Color provides intense moisturization to the lips. This lip color is formulated with special emollients and soft waxes that form a conditioning barrier to lock in moisture.

Long Wear
- Creamy Matte Lip Color’s unique formula is designed to slightly soften with the warmth of the lips, providing full color release. Skin comfortable film formers and an extremely high concentration of pigments contribute to advanced wear that will not transfer, smear or feather for up to 8 hours.


What I like about it...
* extremely pigmented, one swipe is all I need to get full color on my lips
* has a rich and creamy texture, so it glides like a dream. it really does, I swear.
* has mild pleasant scent, like a hint of caramel. It's almost unnoticeable.
* has a chic and sturdy packaging
* the tube twists all the way to end so it's easy to close without nicking the tip of the lipstick
* dries to a semi matte finish
* feels really light on my lips compared to typical matte lipsticks
* though it is a matte lipstick, I was surprised that it's not drying at all
* stays long on my lips, a good 5 hours before it starts to fade
* once it sets on my lips, it doesn't smear or feather even after drinking or eating
* no allergies experienced

What I don't like...
* unlike its claim, this is does transfer a bit but not as much as ordinary cream lipsticks do
* expensive, but worth it because this is the first matte lipstick I've tried that isn't drying and feels really light at the same time.

My rating: 5 / 5

Hey ladies, just one more day and it's Valentine's Day.  I realized that I haven't created any makeup look for a really long time. (sigh) Since hearts day is coming, I just thought that this soft neutral look would be perfect for a date.

Before I chose to do this makeup, I thought "What kind of makeup look would I prefer to wear for a date with Hubby?" The answer is a no-brainer. I only wanted a simple and natural look with a healthy dewy finish.
 

I received a surprise in the mail last week. I honestly forgot that I subscribed to the Jan-Feb BDJ Box, since I paid for the box around October last year (2013). hehe So here goes, unboxing time!

If you ladies remember, I recently posted about the Mary Kay At Play Baked Eye Trio review and swatches. This time, you'll get to meet the Mary Kay At Play™ Jelly Lip Gloss which is included in the Mary Kay At Play makeup line.

On average, women try 7 foundations before finding the right one. This comes as no surprise to Bobbi Brown, who says the most common beauty mistake women make is wearing the wrong foundation shade. Bobbi believes that foundation should not change the color of your face but should match the color of your skin exactly.

In line with Bobbi’s philosophy that makeup is a way for women to look and feel like themselves, only prettier and more confident, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics offers 8 skin-tone correct shades and 10 high quality formulas as well as personalized makeup lessons, to take the mystery out of finding the perfect foundation.

Bobbi’s best tips on finding the perfect foundation 

How to choose the right formula
It’s important to choose a formula that is right for your skin type, personal style and has a texture that you like. When trying different formulas, check to see if your skin looks fresher, brighter and more even. If it doesn’t, remove the foundation and try another option. You know you’ve found the right foundation when it looks like your skin but better.

How to pick the right shade 
For the most natural look, choose a skin-tone correct shade of foundation and avoid foundations that have a pink or white base because they can make skin look chalky and washed out.

To find your perfect shade of foundation, follow these steps: in natural light, swatch the foundation from your cheek to your jaw line, and gently blend it into your skin. Now do the same with another foundation that’s one shade lighter and another that’s one shade darker. The shade that’s imperceptible should be your pick, but double-check it against your forehead, since some women tend to be darker there. If it works in both areas, you’ve picked a winner.

I also recommend having two foundations on hand—one for the cooler months, when your skin is naturally paler, and one for the summer months, when your skin is slightly darker. For those in-between months, blend the two to develop your own custom shade. And year-round, mix the two to address any areas where your skin is darker or lighter.

How to apply 
Using a sponge or foundation brush, apply foundation all over the face or just where skin needs to be evened out (usually around the nose, chin and forehead)—it’s a matter of personal preference. After blending the foundation, use your fingers to gently press it into the skin and create a seamless look.

Bobbi’s foundations for natural, flawless skin

for Sheer Coverage

You Want: Radiant coverage with intense moisturization and sun protection
Try: EXTRA SPF 25 Tinted Moisturizing Balm
A lightweight foundation-alternative for dry, dehydrated skin, this formula is ultra-rich, and blends easily, giving skin a dewy look with light coverage. Broad Spectrum SPF 25 helps protect skin against damaging UVA/B rays. Dermatologist tested.
Retail Price: Php 3,100.00
Shades: Light Tint, Light to Medium Tint, Medium Tint


You Want: A “no makeup” look that’s also oil-free
Try: SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizer Oil Free
Created for women with oily skin who want light moisture, sheer coverage and sun protection in one, Bobbi's gel-based formula is the perfect alternative to foundation. Light and refreshing, it glides on smoothly, blends easily and provides a hint of coverage for soft, even and natural-looking skin. Vitamins C and E protect skin from free radical damage, while Broad Spectrum SPF 15 helps prevent sun damage.
Retail Price: Php 2,350.00
Shades: Light, Light to Medium, Medium


for Light to Medium Coverage

You Want: A lit-from-within glow that also reduces fine lines, visible redness and pores
Try: BB Cream SPF 35
The ultimate skincare/makeup hybrid, this formula perfects skin tone, hydrates, brightens, repairs and protects.
Retail Price: Php 2,350.00
Shades: Light, Fair, Medium, Natural


You Want: To even out skin’s appearance for a polished yet natural look
Try: Skin Foundation Mineral Makeup SPF 15 
Bobbi's groundbreaking mineral makeup is made of specially-selected mineral powders to instantly even out skin and diminish the look of imperfections. The result is a natural finish that never looks masky or overly made up. The super-fine powders in this formula are triple treated with glycerin, vitamins and skin softeners, and wear extenders. Smooth and silky, it glides on with a weightless feel and helps improve skin's appearance. SPF 15 helps protect skin from damage.
Retail Price: Php 2,450.00
Shades: Extra Light, Light, Light to Medium, Medium, Medium to Dark


for Medium Coverage

You Want: Skin that looks like skin – only better
Try: Skin Foundation SPF 15
A truly modern foundation that offers invisible, weightless coverage that looks like healthy skin, not makeup. This long-wearing formula evens tone, minimizes the appearance of pores, conceals imperfections, and offers broad spectrum UV protection. Its hydrating technology leaves skin feeling cushioned, comfortable, and clean.
Retail Price: Php 2,900.00
Shades: Warm Ivory, Sand, Beige, Natural, Warm Natural, Warm Sand, Warm Beige, Honey


for Medium To Full Coverage

You Want: A natural look with an oil-free foundation
Try: Long-Wear Even Finish Foundation SPF 15
Comfortable and hydrating, this medium to full coverage oil-free formula never looks cakey or masky. Glycerin and shea butter keep skin feeling moisturized while a gel base creates a lightweight finish that stays color-true. Lasts for up to 12 hours even in the most humid conditions. Protects skin from future damage thanks to broad spectrum SPF 15 with antioxidant vitamins C and E.
Retail Price: Php 2,900.00
Shades: Warm Ivory, Sand, Beige, Natural, Warm Natural, Warm Sand, Warm Beige, Honey


You Want: Skin that has a soft, natural looking glow
Try: Illuminating Finish Powder Compact Foundation SPF 12
This foundation cuts shine while creating a radiant, diffused look. Creamy and soft to the touch yet light and airy, this buildable powder formula can be applied wet or dry. Reflective pigments play cinematographer, optically diffuse skin imperfections and minimizing the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles for a flawless, even glow.
Retail Price: Php 2,550.00
Shades: Warm Ivory, Sand, Beige, Natural, Warm Natural, Warm Sand, Warm Beige, Honey


for Full Coverage

You Want: To target imperfections
Try: Touch Up Stick
Carry this mini stick in your makeup bag, and use it to conceal any imperfections, redness or blemishes. Its creamy, full-coverage formula is perfect for the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin (not the under eye area).
Retail Price: Php 1,500.00
Shades: Warm Ivory, Sand, Beige, Natural, Warm Natural, Warm Sand, Warm Beige, Honey


You Want: A natural finish and twelve hour wear
Try: Long-Wear Even Finish Compact Foundation
Perfectly matched to skin tone and texture, it never looks fake or makeup-y, just like smooth, even skin. With 12 hours of flawless, oil-free wear, all you see is your skin - at its best. Plus, it's completely portable, too - with a hidden sponge applicator right in the compact - so you look polished wherever you go.
Retail Price: Php 2,400.00
Shades: Warm Ivory, Sand, Beige, Natural, Warm Natural, Warm Sand, Warm Beige, Honey


for All Coverage

You Want: A portable formulas that smoothes and evens out skin
Try: Foundation Stick
Bobbi's innovative Foundation Stick is designed for portability and adjustable coverage. Easy to apply and blend all over the face or just where you need it.
Retail Price: Php 2,350.00
Shades: Warm Ivory, Sand, Beige, Natural, Honey, Golden, Almond, Warm Natural, Warm Sand, Warm Beige

Info and Photos courtesy of Bobbi Brown Philippines

Available at our local Bobbi Brown counters in Rustan’s Makati (812-2507), Rustan’s Shangri-la Mall (633-4636 loc. 114), Essenses Rockwell (822-9400), Rustan's Ayala Center Cebu (+6332 231 5633) SM Mall of Asia and SM Megamall.

Turn back the hands of time to reveal remarkably smoother skin.  Clinique introduces the new Repairwear Laser Focus Smooths, Restores, Corrects  --  a newly reformulated serum that delves one step beyond lines and wrinkles to deliver twice the smoothing results as before.  

To address lines and wrinkles, a leading skin care concern, Clinique developed Repairwear Laser Focus Serum delivering 63% of the visible wrinkle reducing power of a dermatological laser in just 12 weeks.

As a leader in dermatological concerns, Clinique scientists have added even more innovative technology to its powerhouse serum with the new Repairwear Laser Focus Smooths, Restores, Corrects.  It contains new skin resurfacing technology that encourages gentle yet effective exfoliation to reveal smoother, more radiant looking skin.


Dermatologist tested and oil-free, NEW Repairwear Laser Focus Smooths, Restores, Corrects is uniquely formulated to work day and night to reveal a dramatic smoothness of skin’s texture with significant improvements in radiance and luminosity. With continued use, troublesome lines and wrinkles are visibly reduced. As a result, skin is left smoother and a youthful appearance is restored.

In Cebu,  Repairwear Laser Focus Smooths, Restores, Corrects is available at the Clinique counter, Rustan's Department Store, Ayala Center Cebu.

Photo and Info courtesy of Clinique Philippines

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Hey ladies, you're probably wondering why I'm posting hair care tips for winter hair when it's tropical here in the Philippines. Just really wanted to share this interesting article to my international readers who are currently experiencing the cold months and thought that they may find it helpful.

6 Must Read Tips for Healthy Winter Hair
by HSN Expert Ann Colville Somma 



Ah, Winter ... It's a wonderful time of year for you, but how about your hair?  Warm nights by the fire are lovely, except for that super dry air! Crisp walks in the snow could not be more refreshing, but who loves the static effect on your locks? And never mind accessorizing with all those chic hats ... the aftermath can be less than stylish!

But just as you change up your skincare routine for drier days with a richer moisturizer or a creamier cleanser, a few simple changes to your hair care routine can winterize your tresses and keep dry ends, flat looks, and static frizz at bay.

Here are 6 easy tricks to winter-proof your hair:

1. Get Rich

Dry air and indoor heating can parch your hair during winter months, so switch your everyday shampoo and conditioner to a sulfate-free routine.  These cleansing agents, found in many shampoos, can strip moisture and colorant from hair - so moving away can keep your color fresh too! Look for products free of moisture-stripping sulfates and rich in ultra-hydrating mono oil. 

2. Skip A Day, The Cheater's Way

If you've heard about the benefit of skipping shampoo days but haven't yet given this a try, winter can be a great time to give your hair and scalp a break, allowing your own natural oils to re-balance. Scalp health is essential for great hair, and if your face gets dry in the winter, imagine the state of your poor head!  But don't worry, you don't have to actually avoid the shower ... I love a creamy cleansing conditioner like Carol's Daughter Hair Milk Co-Wash - it has just enough cleaning power to leave hair feeling refreshed, and just enough conditioning effect to leave it smooth without weighing it down.

3. Style, Don't Strip

If you can't leave home without sleek tresses, winter is the time to be extra vigilant about protecting your hair from the stress of heat styling. To lock in moisture while you're styling, try an at-home keratin treatment. Some hair straighteners and styling tools come with features that can actually help your hair, like: keratin packs, or spray through, leave-in, keratin treatment before firing up your favorite tool.

4. Do Double Duty

Winter air is usually low in humidity, which makes for static-y flyaways and, you guessed it, drier hair! I love saving time (and money) by picking up a moisture-rich hair cream, which doubles as a styling aid and conditioning pack. I use the lightest touch on hair before I throw on my knit hat, and about once weekly I apply it throughout my hair and wrap in a just-from-the-drier towel to create a deep moisture treatment.

5. Fight the Flat

Low humidity can also be torture for fine, thin hair, but that's nothing a good night's sleep won't cure, I swear!  Taya Amazon White Clay & Acacia Collagen Overnight Hair Plumper works while you're sleeping to inject hair with va-va-voom volume by morning, and starting your style off right.



6. Good, To Go

Even if I'm not jetting off somewhere chic, I love to pick up a travel set or two for the winter season.  They offer great value and a chance to try something new - but even better, they ensure I have mini tress-tamers at my fingertips for those hat head moments when arriving at the office or an event.  Amika's Jet Set Hair Care Survival Kit contains their cult Obliphica Leave In Cream - perfect for smoothing frizzies.


With a few swaps and simple tricks, your hair will enjoy the wonders of winter as much as you do!

You can view the original post HERE.

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Have you ever experienced being in love with a lipstick? like you can't sleep coz you kept thinking about buying that one particular lipstick? Well I have. LOL... I'd like you to meet my current lipstick obessesion, Mac Retro Matte Lipstick in Flat Out Fabulous.


The M.A.C Retro Matte Lipstick Collection was released around September 2013, but I bought it a couple of months after because it got sold out so fast at our local MAC counter in Rustan's Ayala Center Cebu.  Good thing I knew someone who was in US at the time and was coming home a few days after. So, I asked a favor from her to buy me this lipstick. I paid her Php 900. But it retails for Php 1,000 at our local Mac Counters.


The Mac Flat Out Fabulous is a new addition to their permanent line of lipsticks. It is not limited edition, so you can still buy this if it is back in stock. As I've said, this gets sold out very quickly so I suggest you befriend the pretty ladies working at MAC and have it reserved for you. hehe


As the name suggests, this has a Matte finish. If you're already a fan of Mac Matte Lipsticks like Riri Woo, then this one has that very same formula.


I have always loved bright lipsticks, that's why I got my eyes peeled on this one when I first saw it. I also noticed that this looks very similar to Nars Schiap when swatched. So, if you still can't get your hands on this, Nars Schiap lipstick would be a good alternative.

Until next time.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***