For sure, you ladies already know that Benefit Cosmetics is already in the Philippines, since its soft launch last December. I had the opportunity to take a sneak peek at them goodies.

I’ve been a fan of Benefit since I owned one of their best selling products the first time — Benefit Dandelion. I also love the cult favourite, Benetint. In fact, I bought a Pocketpal (Benetint + Transparent Gloss) during my first visit in Singapore. I’m so happy that they finally set their first ever flagship store in Greenbelt 5, since I don’t have to buy Benefit products elsewhere. I used to get mine abroad, either by going to Sephora or ordering online; both of which is quite expensive.

Back at the launch, I was able to taste one of these yummy cupcakes, featuring BeneBabes Simone, Gabby and Betty amongst others.

I couldn’t resist touching these scintillating thingies!

To my surprise, prices here in the Philippines are way cheaper than that of Singapore’s. As told by the brand manager, they keep the prices aligned with Hong Kong’s. By definition of cheap, I can’t say that they really are affordable. Prices range from Php 900 – 3000, which is a bit steep for someone who’s on budget. But, comparing to prices in other countries, I should say that I’d rather purchase Benefit in Manila anytime of the day.

I went to Singapore just recently, and didn’t mind shopping for Benefit since I got what I needed (and I’m more likely to shop in Manila). Thank you very much Benefit Philippines for these goodies.

Benefit Stationery, Brow bar gift cheque, b.right moisturiser, Benetint & Brows a-go-go.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t use my gift cheque since I’m currently out of the country. But, but, I brought with me two of the coolest loots I got: Benefit Benetint, a lip and cheek tint that I religiously use, and Brows A-go-go, a nifty brow colouring and fixing set.

I’d love to post separate reviews of each products in the future, as soon as I have more time to do so. xx

Sometime last October, Tony Moly Philippines held a makeup event, which I was fortunate to attend. I remember being sick at that time, but braced the under-the-weather feeling and went still.

Despite coming in very late, I was able to catch a glimpse on the event highlights:

Tony Moly’s Korean makeup artists, Yoon Eun Mi and  Cha Duhee, did a makeup demonstration using the brand’s latest products. Dubbed as Disco Diva, I’m sure you already have a clue on what type of look they did.

Korean Makeup Artists Yoon Eun Mi and Cha Du Hee with their models.

‘Twas really interesting to know how a nighttime, party-ready makeup can still look fresh and effortless. I guess, Koreans have a knack for keeping things simple, as evident on their TV Dramas where celebrities pull off a makeup-no makeup look.  Blame their genetically flawless, pore-less skins for it.

To add, the model on the left was just wearing BB cream as base, which fit her ‘coz she really has nice skin. Pardon for the bad lighting. I still have yet to invest on a good external flash.

Look closely.

*Frustration ensues*

Some of the newest products introduced were the Backstage Self Smoky Eye Collection (duo-eyeshadow palette with gel eyeliner), Floria Bloom Ball Busher, and IntenseRepair Live Snail BB Cream.

One of the hosts holding the Backstage Self Smoky Eye Collection

The latter piqued my interest. I’m not sure at first if the BB Cream had live snail extract in it, but the name took me by surprise. Apparently, it listed Filtered sail slime as one of the product ingredients. Now, that really made me afraid to try, but curiosity overcame me so I took a swatch on my hand. Luckily, it didn’t turn into “snail skin”. I found the grease-free, almost matte finish really nice, btw.

I wish I had something like this at home, but who am I kidding? I currently live in a tropical island (think of Boracay, just bigger) where thick makeup would turn into paste after a few hours of staying under the scorching heat.

Brigitte holding what appears to be akin to Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Block. Want.

Spotted another blogger, makeup artist Marj.

I tagged along Nika, ‘coz I know she’d enjoy this. Also took a snappie with one of my favourite beauty bloggers, Martha.

I finally resolved into posting something in this blog, and prolly my home blog. Been almost two weeks since I moved out from the Philippines to another Asian country…mainly for work.

Anyway, here’s the story of something old.

A few years ago, I was excited to own a Smashbox Tokidoki palette. You know how I love cute packaging, non-realistic doodles and Japanese.

I got Celebrita, which has a berry, a plum and two neutral (b/w) shades.

Swatches

With flash

Without flash

The plum and white colours give off a subtle lustre, whilst the the berry and grey-black colours have a more defined shimmer (but not way too glittery). I often use the neutrals, of course, especially the white one for highlighting. The colour payoff is more of satiny, especially for the grey-black one.I remember using it during Levi’s Roadwear Party.

Given that it was just launched in the Philippines, the price was quite steep. I believe I got it for no less than Php 2,000.

…and now, for something new.

A few months ago, amidst defying boredom, I found myself browsing eBay listings and stumbled upon the other Smashbox Tokidoki palette in Modella up for bids. I didn’t think twice and bade on it. Eventually, I won it along with 2 other palettes from Milani. I was a happy camper indeed!

Modella’s cutesy packaging

The colours weren’t interesting at first sight, maybe because I’m biased to girly pink and plums . Having swiped them onto my skin (as swatches), I took that impression back and started to appreciate them.

Swatches

With flash

Without flash

The three colours (yellow, blue and orange) have sheer payoff with subtle shimmer, whilst the lone brown colour has a muted, matte finish.

Best thing of all, I only shelled out a measly Php 500 for the palette. eBay isn’t really your best bet when it comes to finding quality, original stuff, but I’m happy that the seller sold me an original one. Definitely, one must have a keen eye for spotting trusted sellers.

Here’s one lip product that’s been regularly stashed inside my makeup kit for quite a while and one of my favourites.

I was very curious about it when I sought upon this product for the first time. The label’s written in Korean, so I had no idea what kind of makeup it was, until I received the product information saying it works as a “lip tint”.

Tony Moly Berry Berry Magic Lip Tint is made of water-soluble dye that melts on moistened skin, such as the pucker. It’s enriched with Vitamin E that moistens and protects the lips from irritation.

It comes in 3 colours: strawberry, green apple and grape. I got mine in strawberry, hinting on the tangy berry scent as I took a whiff on it.

Translucent Gel, Tinted when Applied

Inside

The strawberry flavour disguises as a clear translucent gel, hence I didn’t have a clue that it was indeed a lip product. I was caught by surprise the moment I applied it on my lips — the once clear gel magically transformed into a tinted one. I guess it has the same formulation as that of Smashbox O-Gloss’, but I’ve yet to find out for sure.

Great Colour Payoff, Yummy Strawberry Scent

It delivers a deep pink tint, and has a rich colour payoff for a lip tint. I use it in lieu of my old The Body Shop Lip and Cheek Stain, since the former is more moisturising that I don’t even need to apply a lip balm after. It has a glossy sheen that’s not too overpowering, making it perfect to wear alone sans the need of a lip gloss. It’s not sticky to boot!

The finger application may set you off, but a separate lip brush will do the trick.

Me with Tony Moly Berry Berry Magic Lip Tint on my lips

Price is only at Php 198.

Available at Tony Moly stores nationwide.

Human Nature introduces its new eye shadow palette in Enchanted Evening — composed of lovely gradient shades of purple for a captivating smoky eye look.

Human Nature Mineral Eye Shadow Palette is enclosed in a small purple packaging, and comes with a dual sponge tip applicator.

Being an organic brand that Human Nature is, rest assured that this mineral eyeshadow palette is 100% all-natural, free from harmful chemicals and animal cruelty-free. It’s enriched with passion fruit seed oil, which is rich in vitamins A & C and has a calming effect on the skin. Vitamin C serves as a natural skin antioxidant.

The colours are made especially for Filipina’s skin tone, which suits all kinds/types of complexion — from the fair mestizas to the copper-skinned morenas.

Here’s the palette up-close in varying shades of purple. It has a velvety smooth finish with shimmers.

I also took the liberty of making swatches on my skin.

Without flash

With flash

Our friends from Human Nature also shared to us a simple three-step makeup application procedure to pull off an “eyening glam” look.

Price: Php 325.

Human Nature Mineral Makeup is available through Human Nature dealers and branches and in all Beauty Bar outlets in Metro Manila. To learn more about Human Nature, visit www.humanheartnature.com, your nearest Human Nature Branch or call (02) 931-5787.

Tony Moly has a bevy of latest releases, and I’m equally excited and giddy as you are to get up-close and personal with these products.

Tony Moly Shiny Foot Baby Skin Heel Patch – Php 178 & Luminous Pink Heart Makeup Starter – Php 58

Rich in jojoba, eucalyptus and tea tree oils plus the moisturising benefits of cocoa butter, Tony Moly Shiny Foot Baby Skin Heel Patch helps prevent dry, cracked heels, and keeps them soft and well-moisturised all day.

On the other hand, Tony Moly Luminous Pink Heart Makeup Starter works like a priming mask — with AHA, BHA and collagen to nourish and exfoliate the skin — prior to makeup application. The heart-shaped pink dot is the exfoliating part that removes dead skin cells, whilst the embossed side deeply moisturises the skin.

Tony Moly Berry Lovely girl Heart Lip Palette – Php 448

Tony Moly Berry Lovely girl Heart Lip Palette contains 5 luscious lip colours in pinks, nudes, reds and corals stashed in a pocket-sized transparent compact case with a tiny lip brush included. It reminds me of my old Barbie tinted lip gloss palette (yes, I’ve been very interested in makeup ever since).

Tony Moly Lovely Girl Eau de toilette 30ml – Php 748

Tony Moly Lovely Girl Eau de toilette has crisp floral top notes, making it ideal to wear during daytime. The scent minds me that of CK’s.

Tony Moly Petite Bunny Gloss Bar – Php 278

Tony Moly Petite Bunny Gloss Bar is rich in fruit extracts and Vitamin C that moisturises and hydrates chapped lips. It comes in 6 yummy flavours (stawberry, grape, orange, peach, cherry and apple). I got mine in Strawberry.

Inside

I tested it, and it’s just like an ordinary lip gloss sans the tint. Might as well give it to my younger cousin, since I’ve tons of lip glosses and balms already.

Tony Moly Backstage Eye Paint Pot – Php 448

Tony Moly Backstage Eye Paint Pot works as an eye shadow, liner or a highlighter. This high definition, long-wearing eye colour claims to be budge-proof and waterproof, and lasts the entire day. It comes with a small brush concealed on top of the lid for quick, instant touch-ups. I got mine in lavender with shimmers.

Tony Moly Berry Trendy Hair Wax – Php 178

Tony Moly Berry Trendy Hair Wax comes in different formulations, depending on the length and type of the hair. Each pot delivers a different hold and glossy finish. I got mine in a coral pink pot that’s perfect to those who have long, wavy hair. It has the weakest hold for a voluminous wave, if I’m mistaken, but gives off the best sheen. It has a yummy apple scent, hence I initially mistook it for a facial mask lol.

Inside

Albeit made specially for men, I use it ideally to keep those stubborn tutchangs at bay and nix those icky frizzes for neat and sleek hair styling.

Tony Moly Berry Trendy Style Hair Mist – Php 378

Tony Moly Berry Trendy Style Hair Mist is one of my current hair care-slash-styling favourites. It prevents split ends, effectively detangles my unkempt locks (prior to combing), calms down frizzes, and keeps my hair freshly scented with a hint of sweet berries. It also has UV filters that protect the hair from the drying and damaging rays of the sun. It’s a must-have hair care arsenal!

Introducing the Dear Me Skincare (and Makeup) Line:

Each of these Tony Moly Dear Me products contains baby herb complex — composed of 7 different botanical potent extracts — that works as a skin barrier, keeping the skin healthy and protected against the harmful effects of environmental pollutants. It also promises to relieve the skin from stress, whilst keeping it rejuvenated and moisturised. Its mild formulation makes it suitable for sensitive skin types.

I haven’t tried any of these products yet, but I’m thinking of trying one or two from the line for an extensive review.  

Tony Moly Dear Me Waterful Lotion

Tony Moly Dear Me Waterful Lotion – Php 498

It’s a mild, moisturing lotion that promises to transform rough, dull skin into its soft and supple state like that of baby’s.

Tony Moly Dear Me Waterful Skin Toner

Tony Moly Dear Me Waterful Skin Toner – Php 498

It contains Nordenau water, known to have miraculous healing properties, which is rich in antioxidants keeping the skin dewy and well-hydrated.

Tony Moly Dear Me Waterful Cream

Tony Moly Dear Me Waterful Cream – Php 528

It’s a rich moisturising cream in a pocket-size tube that deeply moisturises and nourishes the skin.

Tony Moly Dear Me Petite Cotton BB Cream SPF 30 PA++

Tony Moly Dear Me Petite Cotton BB Cream SPF 30 PA++ – Php 348

This blemish balm cream adheres lightly to the skin, giving it a flawless, baby-soft finish. It has a light-medium coverage sans leaving an oil residue behind. Amped with SPF 30, this blemish balm is convenient to use even when exposed under the sun.

I got mine in Cotton Beige which closely matches light to medium-light skin complexions.

Tony Moly Dear Me Petite Cotton Pact

Tony Moly Dear Me Petite Cotton Pact – Php 348

This teensy powder compact would easily be mistaken as a toddler’s toy, because it’s “that” tiny.  It’s like a typical powder compact with sheer coverage, which I think can also work well as a blotting powder.

Inside

It has a separate compartment for the powder puff, making it an interesting little toy to tote along with the rest of my beauty armaments.  Its mild ingredient promises to relieve skin irritations such as itching.

I got mine in Natural Beige which I think best fits light to medium-light skin tones.

Pardon me for now posting for a week, since I just came back from last weekend’s much deserved vacation.

Without further ado, here’s my take on Covergirl’s newest lip craze – Covergirl Lip Perfection Bullet Lipstick.

Covergirl Lip Perfection Bullet Lipstick contains Silk Therapy Complex, a moisturising property that keeps the moisture level of the lips to its optimum condition, improving lip condition over time. It promises to soften and smoothen the lips, and transform it into one lovely kissable pucker in just 7 days! Really sounds enticing, isn’t it?

Take lip colour to a whole new level with these 22 luscious lip perfection bullet lipstick shades.

I got mine in Burn and Hypnotic during the Covergirl Lip Perfection launch.

Burn is a deep crimson colour. It naturally brightens up a dull face. Unlike other bedazzling red shades, this one isn’t too overpowering, perhaps because of its shimmery lustre.

A cardinal rule for any red lipstick is to wear it with minimal to bare makeup, lest you’d end up looking like a buffoon — which obviously isn’t the peg you’re aiming for.

Burn when worn.

Hypnotic, on the other hand, is your typical everyday colour in pearly nude shade. I wear this or Love Minerals lipstick in Sweet Nectar (the latter has a nude peach-pink shade) whenever I set off to work.

It’s also my go-to colour whenever I wear heavy (read: smoky) eye makeup.

Hypnotic when worn.

Glides Smoothly, Pigmented, Satin Finish

Covergirl Lip Perfection Bullet Lipstick is such an ease to apply. It glides on smoothly on the lips without the dragging feel. It’s richly pigmented, so a few swipes is all I need.

I love how it goes at par with luxe brands. During the event, we tested 3 lipsticks of different brands and compared each. The third one from the left is Covergirl Lip Perfection Bullet Lipstick. Notice how rich the colour is.

Both colours deliver a satin finish with shimmery or pearly lustre.

Swatch on skin (L-R: Hypnotic and Burn)

Moisture Level depends on Colour/Pigment

I guess it’s normal for heavily pigmented colours, such as deep reds and corals, to be more drying than those with lighter pigments. I found burn a bit drying after hours of usage, in such a way that my lips begin to chap. I therefore recommend to use an emollient lip balm with it in order to prolong the moisturisation prowess of the lipstick. Better yet, tote the lip balm along with you should you need a quick fix.

As for hypnotic,  my lips stay well-moisturised all day long, which’s why it’s an ideal everyday lipstick.

Structured packaging, Vanilla Scent

I love how Covergirl didn’t scrimp on the packaging. The structured packaging looks so posh and sturdy! Also, the musky vanilla scent is so yummy; it beckons me to apply the lipstick again and again!

Each lipstick is affordably priced at Php 395.

As a gift to all of you, get a Php 100 discount when you print this page along with this coupon.

I’ve known Covergirl cosmetics for a long time, thanks to my folks abroad who would send me some makeup every now and then. One of my first foundations was from this brand (from the US), along with my first blusher from Shu Uemura (came straight from Japan) and a Clean and Clear powder compact (which’s locally available ). All of these I owned waay back in high school.

Back to the event, Covergirl introduced their latest line of lip products.

[Lip Perfection] is a family of bullets and liners that promise to deliver a new kind of lip transformation.

Covergirl Philippines’ Assistant Brand Manager Jinkie Simbulan told us the story behind the Lip Perfection line.

Covergirl Lip Perfection Bullet Lipstick is enriched with Silk Therapy Complex, a unique formula that sustains moisture levels on the lips. It claims to improve lip condition over time. Use the lipstick in conjunction with Covergirl Lip Perfection Lipliner for more defined lips. It has 4 exciting hues to choose from.

As for the bullet lipstick, it’s available in 22 lovely shades.

One of the exciting parts of the event was emulating Drew Barrymore’s “Lip Perfection” look using Covergirl cosmetics. Drew Barrymore is current image model of Covergirl, particularly for this range.

Here’s my teammate Liz, channeling a classy, sophisticated vibe with her crimson red lips.

Martha won the challenge with her sultry look ala Drew’s.

Then, Jinkee gave us another challenge. She handed over 3 unbranded lipsticks. Two of which were from popular luxe brands, whilst one was a Covergirl Lip Perfection Bullet Lipstick.

We got to swipe one of each in a piece of cloth to test which of these three is Covergirl Lip Perfection Bullet Lipstick.

Now, you tell me which is which?

I’d love to reveal it right now, but decided to save it until I make a more detailed review very soon! x

Of course, the day wouldn’t be complete without these panache finger foods.

…and yes, we’re in Sweet Bella. So, we nibbled our way to these yummy macaroons!

Best of all, I’ve got to take home these goodies!

Too bad, the foundation shades don’t match my yellowish undertones.:-( But, I’ve still kept the bottles in case I might need them in the future.

More Event Pictures

Aireen Mayol of Rustan’s who looked effortlessly gorgeous. I super adore her lips!

Jinkee Simbulan of Covergirl, who’s so radiant and refreshing.

Tara & Jaime

Bambi & Brigitte

Shen with her luscious red lips.

Group pictures of us wearing fiery red hues from Covergirl.

It’s a shame that someone like me, who happens to own a beauty blog, does not have an extensive set of makeup brushes. I must confess that though I’m fond of collecting makeup myself, I don’t really wear them on a daily basis. Blame it on one of my peculiar traits.

I buy makeup brushes separately, particularly those that I need. I own some from Youngblood, MAC, The Body Shop and Charm to name a few. To think, I have more brushes that I use for oil, watercolour and pastel (with the help of turpentine) painting than makeup brushes.

Since I’ve been going out and about recently, I am now more accustomed into wearing full makeup. Hence, now is the high time to reward myself with a brush set that I can use on a more delicate canvass — my countenance.

That’s where Charm Travel Pro Makeup Brush Set comes into play. I’m more than happy (and lucky) to own this beautiful brush set as my first ever pro set!

The brushes are enclosed in a faux croc skin patent clutch that looks so chic in black complemented by the hot pink zip.

I was so giddy and excited that I took a snapshot instantly as soon as I opened it.

Ta-dah!

‘Twas love at first sight! I’m so in-love with the colours. The gunmetal black handles and polished hot pink ferules look so chica. Truly, this is one of Charm’s finest creations.

This 14-piece brush set is made from animal hair and synthetic hair fibres. I’d love to spare some time reviewing this brush set in full detail. In the meantime, here’s a quick preview:

For the Face and Cheeks: Stippling Brush, Powder Brush, Foundation Brush, Angled Blush Brush and Concealer Brush

The 187 dupe (stippling brush) leaves me so intrigued, albeit I haven’t used it yet. On the other hand, I super duper loveee the foundation and the concealer brush ‘coz of their uber softness like feather. x

For the Eyes and Lips: Wet/Dry Eyeshadow Brush, Angled Eyeshadow Brush, Pencil Point Brush, Blending Brush, Flat Liner Brush, Bent Eyeliner Brush, Eyebrow Shading Brush, Brow Spoolie, Lip Brush

Here comes the tricky part: how to use these brushes effectively? I must admit I’m still a neophyte when it comes to the art of eyeshadow application. Nevertheless, I’m amid learning how to make good use of these tools.

The blender brush resembles that of 222 (tapered blending brush), and I’m quite excited to try it especially in perfecting the smoky, gradient look. The flat liner brush looks interesting, too! I’m thinking of experimenting different eye shadow looks soon, similar to what I do during my art class back in the days. Oh yes, it’s playtime once again. I hope my creative juices will cooperate!

Price: Php 2,200 inclusive of shipping

Available exclusively at Beauty & Minerals. You can also check their branches in Crossings, Shangri-la Mall; PurBeauty, Serendra; and Beauty & The Geeks stall, Robinsons Cyberpod Eton 1.